Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO

The Denon AH-NC732s are a great pair of headphones, but they’re meant for an entirely different environment than the DT 990 PROs are. If you’re planning on going outside, the Denons should be your choice hands-down. The AH-NC732s are more meant to be appropriate both at home and on the go, hence their active cancellation. If you’re staying inside, the DT 990 PROs are better by a landslide. They’re more comfortable, have better overall audio quality, and better connectivity.

The Pioneer SE-A1000s are a decent set of over-ears, but the DT 990 PROs just outmatch them in just about every way. The SE-A1000s might appeal to those looking to spend a bit less money, since they cost $200, but for the extra money the DT 990 PROs offer a slightly better deal and much better audio quality. Unless you’re strapped for cash (in which case you really shouldn’t be considering the SE-A1000s anyway, they’re a bit overpriced), pick up the DT 990 PROs.

The Sennheiser HD 555s have a lot of good qualities. They have a good sound, low distortion, are comfortable, and very inexpensive — you can find them for under $100 now. The HD 555s are definitely a better pair of entry-level over-ears. The DT 990 PROs, on the other hand, have much better audio quality, are more comfortable, and cost a lot more money. If you’re just getting into headphones, we’d recommend trying out the HD 555s. If you want to make a bigger investment, there’s really no reason not to spring for the DT 990 PROs.

Even on the low side, the DT 990 PROs cost twice what the ATH-A700s do. The ATH-A700s are good headphones, but they don’t perform quite up to where their price point has put them. This is another issue of price and value. The ATH-A700s have a lower price, but they are still over-priced for what they give you. The DT 990 PROs cost a lot more, but also perform a lot better. This match-up is a lot like the SE-A1000s match-up: if you’re a budget buyer, get the Sennheiser HD 555s, not these. If you’re looking for quality, get the DT 990 PROs.