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Best AMP/DAC for DT990 PRO 250 ohm of 2024, Tested & Reviewed

Best AMP/DAC for DT990 PRO Tested & Reviewed

If you are looking to enhancing the audio quality, and overall performance of your DT990 PRO headphones then you are on the right place!

We know finding the right match for your headphones can be a headache, but we’ve done the heavy lifting for you. Our picks aren’t just about specs – they’re about making your music sound awesome.

Why should you trust us? Well, we’ve spent a solid 10 years geeking out over audio gear, and we’re here to spill the beans on what really works.

Why listen to us? Because we’re not just writers; we’re fellow music enthusiasts who’ve been on the same quest. We’ve tested these AMP/DAC combos to make sure they’re not just gadgets but gateways to a seriously good listening experience.

6 Best AMP/DAC for DT990 PRO (250 ohm) – Reviews

1. Sound BlasterX G6 — Editor’s Pick

Our Pick
Sound BlasterX G6
9.7

The Sound Blaster X G6 is a pocket-sized powerhouse that will make your DT990 PROs sound better than ever.

Its 7.1 virtual surround sound, precision amplification, and 130dB DNR ensure a gaming experience like never before.

It's perfect for gamers, audiophiles, and anyone seeking to elevate their headphone experience.

If you're on the hunt for a budget gaming DAC to pair with your 990 pro headphones, the Sound BlasterX G6 deserves a spot on your shortlist.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this amp/DAC so special.

The device has been made with the gamer in mind, as it can be used to hear your opponents’ footsteps and other audio cues with remarkable accuracy. It also comes equipped with Scout Mode, which allows you to give a tactical advantage.

  • Compatibility: This DAC is compatible with PC, PS4, PS3, Xbox One/Xbox 360, Nintendo Switch, and anything else that has a 3.5mm jack!
Sound BlasterX G6 hands on review
  • Controls: Navigating the Sound BlasterX G6 is intuitive, thanks to its well-designed controls. The volume dial at the front makes adjusting audio levels a breeze, and the tap-to-mute feature is convenient for quick silencing. Switching between headphone and microphone settings is seamless, ensuring you’re always in control of your audio experience.
  • Software Customization: The real magic happens in the software. The Sound BlasterX G6’s software offers a plethora of options, providing a playground for audiophiles and gamers alike. The BlasterX Acoustic Engine allows you to toggle effects on and off, providing control over the sound signature. The setup tab lets you fine-tune audio effects and direct modes, allowing you to strike the perfect balance between natural sound and enhanced gaming audio.
  • The Sound Tab: In the Sound tab, you have control over surround sound, crystallizer, bass, smart volume, dialogue, and more. Adjusting these settings lets you tailor the audio output to your liking, whether you’re craving deep bass or crystal-clear vocals.
  • Equalizer Presets: With an extensive array of equalizer presets, you can experiment to find the perfect balance for your headphones. Customizable options for bass and treble further enhance the personalization of your audio experience.
  • Voice Effects: The Voice tab adds a fun element, allowing users to experiment with different voice effects if they have a 3.5mm jack microphone. While not universally applicable, it’s a creative touch for those who can take advantage of it.
  • Lighting Effects: Finally, the lighting effects add a visually pleasing touch to the Sound BlasterX G6. With simple RGB controls, you can customize the singular light on the deck to match your setup.

Inshort, the Sound BlasterX is a great choice for those looking to improve their audio experience and works perfectly with Beyerdynamic DT 990 pro headphone.

2. FiiO K7 – Also Great

Our Favourite
FiiO K7
9.6

The FiiO K7 is another highly recommended for users of the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro. Its combination of sound quality, build, and functionality, along with its ability to drive and enhance the performance of these headphones, makes it a valuable addition to any audio setup. 

After thoroughly testing and using the FiiO K7 Desktop DAC and Amplifier, I’ve gathered a comprehensive understanding of its performance and features. Here’s a detailed summary based on my experience and insights from various users:

  • Sound Quality: The FiiO K7 delivers a remarkable sound improvement compared to direct headphone connections to a computer. It offers lifelike vocals and a balanced sound profile, with a particular emphasis on mid-treble. The bass response is punchy and warm, ensuring a fun and engaging listening experience.

  • Comparison with Other Models: When compared to its predecessor, the FiiO K5, the K7 shows noticeable improvements in sound clarity and instrument separation. However, it faces stiff competition from models like the FiiO Q3, and iFi Zen DAC V2 with some users preferring these for their slightly better vocal clarity and fuller bass.

  • Design and Build: The unit is well-constructed, featuring an all-aluminum body with CNC finishing. The design is compact and sturdy, making it a durable choice for desktop use.
FiiO K7 hands on review
  • Functionality: The K7 is highly versatile, offering both balanced (4.4mm) and unbalanced (6.3mm) outputs, along with multiple input options (RCA, coaxial, optical, USB). It also functions well as a pre-amp/DAC for other amplifiers.

  • User Experience: The volume control on the K7 can be a bit uneven, with some users finding it touchy and prone to sudden jumps in volume. This aspect might require a bit of getting used to.

  • Power and Compatibility: It provides ample power for most headphones, including high-end planars. The gain switch is effective and doesn’t introduce distortion, even at high settings.

  • Value for Money: The FiiO K7 offers excellent value, competing with units in higher price brackets. Its performance and features are impressive for its price point.

  • Minor Issues: Some users noted the lack of a remote control and expressed a desire for additional features like XLR connections or a bass boost.

  • Gaming Performance: The K7 excels in gaming, providing clear and precise audio cues, which is essential for competitive gaming environments.

Pros

  • Superior Sound Quality: FiiO K7 significantly enhances audio quality, offering lifelike vocals and a balanced sound profile. The mid-treble emphasis and punchy bass contribute to an engaging listening experience.
  • Build Quality: The unit’s all-aluminum body with CNC finishing impressed us with its durability and premium feel. It’s compact and sturdy, ideal for desktop use.
  • Versatile Connectivity: The K7’s array of input options (RCA, coaxial, optical, USB) and both balanced (4.4mm) and unbalanced (6.3mm) outputs make it highly adaptable for various audio setups.
  • Powerful Performance: It provides ample power for a wide range of headphones, including high-end models. The gain switch enhances its versatility without introducing distortion.
  • Value for Money: In our assessment, the K7 offers excellent performance for its price, competing with more expensive units in sound quality and features.
  • Gaming Compatibility: K7 to be particularly effective for gaming, offering clear and precise audio cues crucial for competitive gameplay.

Cons:

  • Volume Control Issues: The volume control can be uneven and touchy, with sudden jumps in volume. This aspect might require some adjustment and can be a bit inconvenient.
  • Lacks Remote Control: Unlike some competitors, the K7 does not come with a remote control, which could be a downside for users who prefer this feature.
  • Desired Additional Features: We noticed the absence of features like XLR connections or a bass boost, which some users might expect at this price point.

Related – The Best mini car amplifiers 4-channel of 2024, Tested and Reviewed


3. FiiO Q3Amplifier

FiiO Q3  Review

 The FiiO Q3 is another option for DT990 PRO. The Q3 is one of the most versatile and capable DACs on the market.

FiiO Q3 is the third generation of FiiO’s iconic portable DAC/amp, which has been upgraded with a new USB chip and VELVET SOUND technology.

The Q3 supports decoding up to 768kHz/32bit PCM and DSD512, achieving excellent performance. 

The Q3 is a high-performance amplifier with excellent sound. Equipped in both DAC and USB chip, this device can easily support up to 768kHz/32bit PCM as well DSD512 encoding for those who want their music crystal clear!

With the patented ftoeed-forward error correction topology, these amps have low distortion and high power. They also don’t lose any of your sound’s quality with their uncolored design!

Pros

  • Can be used with any device that supports USB audio
  • Better sound quality compared to previous model (A3)
  • Works well with high-end headphones
  • Compatible with Grado Hemps and lossless sources
  • Provides more power for certain headphones

Cons

  • Expensive ($150)
  • Limited functionality for those without balanced cable headphones
  • Short directional USB-C cable included, but can be replaced with a generic cable
  • Unable to listen while charging device

4. Schiit Magni 3+

Schiit Magni 3B Headphone Amplifier and Preamp
  • Power and Performance Packed in One – The Schiit Magni 3+ boasts an impressive 2400mW of power into 32 ohms, guaranteeing ample power reserves for all your audio needs. With its exceptionally low noise floor and low distortion, the Magni 3+ ensures clean and precise audio, letting every detail in your music shine.
  • Versatility for Any Headphone – Regardless of whether you’re using IEMs or hard-to-drive planar designs, the Magni 3+ is equipped with the performance and versatility to accommodate any type of headphone. The switchable gain allows for optimum results with your preferred audio gear.
  • A Complete Audio System – The Magni 3+ also comes with preamp outputs, perfect for connecting to your desktop powered monitors or a speaker power amp. This means you can use the Magni 3+ as a preamp for an entire audio system, elevating your listening experience even further.
  • Smooth Start-Up and Shut-Down – The Magni 3+ features a time-delayed start-up and instant shut-down, ensuring seamless use with both headphones and speakers.
  • Designed for Longevity – The Schiit Magni 3+ Amplifier is engineered to last, barely getting warm during use. Its beautifully crafted chassis houses a white LED indicator, subtly visible inside to confirm proper functioning without causing any distractions.
  • 2-Year Warranty – The Schiit Magni 3+ Amplifier is backed by a limited 2-year warranty, covering both parts and labour. You can be confident in your purchase, knowing that your audio investment is protected.

Pros

  • Great sound quality and clarity
  • Easy to trust brand with excellent support
  • Versatile with adapter cables for different output options
  • Sleek design with visible LED indicator

Cons

  • No physical toggle switch for switching between headphones/speakers
  • Inputs are RCA instead of 1/4 or 3.5mm, may require additional adapters for some setups
  • Potential for wear and tear on headphone plug or amp jack due to frequent switching of headphones/speakers.

5. iFi Hip DAC/AMP

iFi Hip DAC/AMP Review

The iFi Hip-dac Portable Balanced DAC Headphone Amplifier has garnered positive feedback from users, reflected in its average rating of ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.4). Here are its key points:

  • Sound Quality: Most Users are impressed with the sound quality, describing it as warm, detailed, and capable of making even lossy music sound good. The device is praised for its ability to drive various headphones, including high-impedance models, and for its effective bass boost feature.
  • Build and Design: The Hip-dac is noted for its solid build quality, with a metal case and brass volume knob. Its size and portability are appreciated, making it easy to carry around.
  • Compatibility: It works well with a range of devices, including iPhones and iPads, though some users had initial compatibility issues with Android phones which were resolved by adjusting settings.
  • Features: The device includes useful features like a gain switch and a bass boost button. The LED indicators for different audio formats are a nice touch, though some found the color differences subtle.
  • Battery Life: Opinions on battery life are mixed. While some users are satisfied, others find it lacking, with reports of it lasting between 3 to 8 hours.
  • Value for Money: Many users feel that the Hip-dac offers great value, providing high-quality sound enhancement at a reasonable price.

Bottom Line: The iFi Hip-dac is highly recommended for those seeking a portable, high-quality DAC and headphone amplifier. It offers excellent sound quality, solid build, and useful features, though its battery life may be a concern for some users.


6. FiiO K5 Pro 

FiiO K5 Pro  Review

The FiiO K5 Pro Headphone Amps Portable Desktop DAC and Amplifier has received a lot of positive feedback from users, reflected in its high average rating. Here’s a summary of the key points from the reviews:

  • Sound Quality: Users report very clean, clear, and detailed sound quality. The device effectively drives high-impedance headphones, with several reviewers noting its ability to handle 150-300 ohm headphones with ease.
  • Build Quality: The build quality is praised for being solid and durable, with a good feel to the knobs and switches.
  • Ease of Use: It is easy to set up and use, coming with all necessary cables and a manual. The device is also described as user-friendly.
  • Design: The design is appreciated for being sleek and not an eyesore, making it a good fit for desktop setups.
  • Value for Money: Many reviewers consider it an excellent choice for its price range, offering a good balance of quality and affordability.
  • Compatibility: It works well with various headphones and is compatible with different audio sources. However, some users suggest downloading drivers from FiiO’s website for optimal performance on PC.
  • Performance: The amp provides a noticeable improvement in sound quality over standard computer audio outputs, with better bass, clarity, and soundstage.

Pros

  • Clear, uncolored sound
  • Good build quality
  • Works well with Mac OS (no drivers needed)
  • Affordable

Cons

  • USB bug on Windows computers (may not be recognized if you turn it off and then back on)
  • Not for professional use (recording studios, etc.)
  • Some channel imbalance at lower volumes

Bottom Line: The FiiO K5 Pro is highly recommended for anyone looking for a quality DAC/amp combo at a midrange budget. It’s particularly suited for desktop use and can significantly enhance the audio experience for music, movies, and gaming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an amp and DAC for DT 990 Pro?

You might need an amp and DAC for the DT 990 Pro, depending on your source material and how loud you want to listen. If you’re using lower-quality or compressed audio files, an amp and DAC can improve the sound quality. And if you like to listen at high volumes, an amp can provide the extra power you need.

But if you’re happy with the sound of your current setup, there’s no need to spend the extra money on an amp and DAC. Just use what sounds best to you.

Do the DT 990 Pro 80 Ohm need an amp?

Yes, the DT 990 Pro 80 Ohm headphones require an amplifier to produce their best sound quality. The impedance of these headphones is 80 ohms, which means they require more power to drive them than lower-impedance headphones. A decent headphone amplifier with enough power will bring out the detail and clarity in the music while preventing clipping and distortion.

Is DT 990 Pro good for mixing and mastering?

The DT 990 Pro is an excellentchoice for mixing and mastering. It has great audio quality and a very flat response, making it ideal for revealing the subtle details in your music. Plus, its comfortable design means you can wear it for long periods of time without fatigue.

Can I use 250 ohm headphones with an audio interface?

Yes you can use 250 ohm headphones with an audio interface because the impedance of headphones is generally much lower than that of an audio interface.

This means that the current flowing through the headphones will be higher than if they were connected directly to a sound source, and as a result, the sound will be louder and clearer.

Can focusrite handle 250 ohm headphones?

Yes, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 can handle 250 ohm headphones. It has an output impedance of 100 ohms, which means it can handle headphones with a higher impedance without issue. In fact, the higher impedance will result in a higher signal-to-noise ratio and reduced distortion.

Can a PC run 250 ohm?

You can certainly try to run a 250 ohm load on your PC, but it may not be able to handle the full load and could end up burning out. If you’re looking to use a 250 ohm load on your PC, it’s best to consult with a professional beforehand to see if your setup can handle it. Thank you for reading!

Are DT 990 Pro audiophile?

Yes, the DT 990 Pro are definitely audiophile headphones. They have a really well-balanced sound signature that is great for all genres of music. The highs are clear and detailed without being harsh, the mids are warm and rich, and the lows are solid and punchy. They also have great isolation and leak-resistant properties, making them ideal for use in noisy environments.

What kind of amp do you need for 250 ohm headphones?

If you’re looking to use 250 ohm headphones, you’ll need an amp that can handle that impedance. The Sennheiser HD1 and Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO are both great options in this range.

Can a Macbook Pro drive 250 ohm headphones?

Yes, the Macbook Pro can drive 250 ohm headphones. However, you may need an amplifier in order to get the full benefit of the headphones. Without an amplifier, you may still be able to get good sound quality, but it will not be as good as it could be with an amplifier.

Does higher impedance mean better sound?

In general, yes, higher impedance usually means better sound quality. The reason is that higher impedance headphones can deliver more power to your ears, and thus produce a fuller, richer sound. They also tend to be more durable and last longer than lower impedance models.

Can my computer power 250 Ohm headphones?

Yes, your computer can power 250 Ohm headphones. However, the quality of the sound may not be as good as if you were using a headphone amplifier. The reason for this is that the power output of your computer’s sound card is relatively low. 

At what ohm Do you need a headphone amp?

Ideally, you would want a headphone amp that can handle no more than 2 ohms. When the impedance of your headphones is too high for the output of your device, it can cause distortion and other sound problems.

Is 80 or 250 Ohm better?

If you’re just looking for general listening, then 80 Ohm headphones are probably fine. However, if you’re looking for something a little more high-end, then you might want to go with 250 Ohm headphones. Ultimately, it’s up to you and what you’re willing to spend.


Selection Criteria – How We Picked and Selected these Amp

To make this list, we carefully considered several factors including:

Compatibility

Our top priority was finding AMPs that are specifically designed to enhance the performance of DT990 PRO 250 ohm headphones. We made sure that each option on our list is compatible with these headphones.

Sound Quality

As audio professionals, we understand the importance of sound quality and wanted to ensure that the selected AMPs provided a clear and accurate sound output without any distortion or interference.

Brand Reputation

We took into consideration the reputation of each brand in the audio industry. We only selected AMPs from trusted and reputable brands to guarantee quality and reliability.

Customer Reviews

We also considered the experiences and feedback of real customers who have used these AMPs with their DT990 PRO headphones. This helped us get a better understanding of the overall performance and user satisfaction.

Price

We understand that cost is an important factor for many people, so we made sure to select AMPs with reasonable prices without compromising on quality.

Additional Features

  • Versatility
  • Portability
  • Customization
  • Durability
  • Design

Bottom Line

When it comes to finding the best amp for the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro headphones, you have several options.

The Schiit Magni 3+ is a great choice for the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro. It has plenty of power to drive these high impedance headphones with ease, and it comes at an affordable price. The Audioengine D1 is another excellent option that offers both digital and analog inputs, as well as multiple output options. Finally, if you’re looking for a portable solution, the FiiO Q3 is an excellent choice.

James Williams, the founder of CarAudioSense and a Mobile Electronics Certified Professional, has been in the industry for over 10 years. He specializes in providing custom solutions to make customers' car audio systems sound amazing.

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