Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $460
High-end/Boutique
$100
$301+
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Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Plus Open-Back Studio Headphones". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Plus Open-Back Studio Headphones are the quintessential tool for any producer or audio engineer seeking an authentic listening experience. With a focus on clarity and precision, these headphones are a testament to Sennheiser's commitment to superior sound quality. The open-back design creates a natural soundstage, allowing you to immerse yourself in every nuance of your mix, making them an ideal choice for both studio and home use.
What sets the HD 490 Pro Plus apart is its adaptability; the headphones come with two sets of interchangeable earpads, each tailored for different stages of audio production, thus reducing ear fatigue during prolonged sessions. The robust neodymium magnets and innovative low-frequency cylinder work in tandem to deliver a rich, balanced sound with a full, uncluttered low end. This ensures that your mixes are both precise and vibrant.
Included in this package is the dearVR MIX-SE plug-in, which transforms any environment into a top-tier mixing room, providing the flexibility to work from anywhere without compromising on quality. Complete with an additional headband pad, a 3-meter cable, and a premium carrying case, these headphones are designed to meet the demands of modern music production and provide a consistent, reliable monitoring solution.
Key Features:
- Open-back circumaural design for authentic soundstage
- Neodymium magnets for rich, balanced audio
- Frequency range: 5 - 36,100 Hz
- Impedance: 130 Ohm
- Two sets of interchangeable earpads to minimize ear fatigue
- Detachable 1.8 m and 3 m cables
- Dear Reality dearVR MIX-SE plug-in included for virtual mixing environments
- Lightweight and durable for extended use
Product specs
| Type | Wired |
| Open/Closed | Open |
| Fit Style | Circumaural (Around the Ear) |
| Driver Size | 38mm |
| Noise Attenuation | Passive Noise Isolation |
| Impedance | 130 ohms |
| Connectivity | 1/8" plug, 1/4" adapter |
| Cable Type | Straight |
| Cable Length | 5.9 ft, 16.4 ft. |
| Detachable Cable | Yes |
| Features | Mixer Earpad, Producer Earpads |
| Case/Bag | Softshell Case |
FAQs
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Are the Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Plus headphones suitable for mixing and mastering?
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Yes, the open-back design of the Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Plus headphones provides a wide soundstage and precise sound reproduction, making them ideal for critical listening tasks such as mixing and mastering.
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What type of sound signature can I expect from the Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Plus?
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The Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Plus headphones offer a clear and detailed sound with a focus on analytical listening, providing clarity and precise imaging with a leaner bass response.
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What is the impedance of the Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Plus headphones, and how does it affect usage?
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The Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Plus headphones have an impedance of 130 ohms, which means they are best used with dedicated headphone amplifiers or audio interfaces for optimal performance.
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Do the Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Plus headphones have a detachable cable?
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Yes, the Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Plus headphones feature a detachable cable, allowing for easy replacement and adaptability to different studio setups.
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How comfortable are the Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Plus headphones for long sessions?
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The circumaural fit and open-mesh metal earpiece covers of the Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Plus headphones provide natural ventilation and comfort, making them suitable for extended use during studio sessions.
Videos
GearUP with Aaron
OMG 😱 // SENNHEISER HD 490 PRO PLUS
OMG 😱 // SENNHEISER HD 490 PRO PLUS
GearUP with Aaron
Reviews
PROS
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Superior sound clarity with a wide sound stage for immersive listening
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Extremely comfortable for long studio sessions without ear fatigue
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Open-back design reduces heat build-up during extended use
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Lightweight construction enhances comfort over prolonged periods
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Impressive low-end response for open-back headphones
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Transparent and well-balanced sound across frequencies
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Durable and travel-friendly case for easy portability
CONS
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Susceptible to outside noise interference, not ideal for noisy environments
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DearVR "virtual studio" plugin negatively impacts sound quality
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Plus Open-Back Studio Headphones.
Comparisons
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The HD 490 Pro has a wider soundstage than the HD 600 series, and with velour pads, provides more bass presence than the HD 560S or Hifiman Edition XS.
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Users note that the HD 490 Pro provides tighter bass compared to the HD 650, with a slightly brighter sound and more clarity in the mids.
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The HD490 Pro Plus headphones are compared favorably to planar magnetics and are noted for having a surprising bass response for open-back headphones.
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Use cases and applications
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Users transitioning from closed-back headphones to the HD 490 Pro appreciate the open-back design for its transparency and room-like listening experience.
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The headphones offer excellent spatial imaging, making them suitable for gaming and audio drama mixing, as they create an immersive sound environment.
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Even with a 130-ohm impedance, these headphones are easily driven by devices like a MacBook Pro or a PS5 controller, making them versatile for various setups.
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User experience
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Users report that the headphones 'disappear on your head,' highlighting their lightweight design and comfort, making them ideal for extended use.
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Professional mixers find the HD 490 Pro exceptionally comfortable for long sessions, outperforming even the BeyerDynamic DT 770 Pro in comfort despite different comfort characteristics.
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Some users find the velour earpads enhance bass response, but others prefer alternative pads due to personal comfort preferences.
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Users note the headphones provide a clear and transparent sound with a warmer response than the 600 series, making them suitable for long sessions without fatigue.
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Features and functionality
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The HD 490 Pro has a faster transient response, which enhances the listening experience for instruments like cello and harp, offering a more precise sound.
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The Pro Plus version includes two sets of ear pads—velour and fabric—each offering distinct sound characteristics, providing users with customizable listening experiences.
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The HD490 Pro Plus includes a single cable design, unlike the dual cables on the 600 series, enhancing simplicity and reducing clutter.
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The 4-pin mini-XLR cable can be plugged into either ear cup, enhancing convenience for users who prefer different cable orientations.
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The headphones come with a travel case, which is a significant addition for users needing portability, as the 600 series lacks this feature.
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Mods and upgrades
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Adding an EQ boost around 50 Hz is recommended to enhance bass response for a more consumer-friendly listening experience, aligning with typical consumer headphones.
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Setup and maintenance
Build quality
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The headphones are extremely lightweight at 260g, with a metal headband that offers satisfying clicks for size adjustment and robust swivel ear cups for added comfort.
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The headphones feature a 4-pin mini XLR connector, unique to this model, which may require custom cables due to limited availability from third-party vendors.
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Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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