Sennheiser HD 490 PRO Plus Headphones

82%

18%

Sound Quality

Comfort for Long Sessions

Build Quality

Noise Isolation

Ease of Setup

Durability

Software Integration (dearVR plugin)

Portability

Connectivity (Wired)

Price vs Performance

Ear Pad Comfort

Appearance/Design

Customer Support

Overview

The Sennheiser HD 490 PRO Plus Headphones are engineered for those who demand accuracy and comfort in their audio equipment. With an open-back design, they provide a natural and expansive soundstage, ideal for detailed listening. These professional headphones are lightweight and designed for long-lasting comfort, making them a great choice for extended sessions. The package includes a detachable cable, two sets of ear pads, and a protective carry case, ensuring convenience and versatility. Whether you're mixing tracks or casually listening, these Sennheiser headphones are designed to meet high expectations.

Features & Benefits

The HD 490 PRO Plus headphones offer a truly uncolored frequency response, ensuring accurate sound reproduction across a wide range of frequencies. With a frequency response spanning from 5 Hz to 36 kHz, they deliver full-spectrum audio for both professional and personal use. In addition to the high-quality sound, these headphones feature washable, replaceable ear pads and sustainable packaging. The inclusion of the dearVR MIX-SE plugin adds another layer of functionality, providing users with a robust virtual mixing environment that enhances mixing and production workflows.

Best For

These professional headphones are perfect for audio professionals who require precise sound localization and clarity. Whether you're a music producer, sound engineer, or anyone involved in critical audio work, the HD 490 PRO Plus provides a reliable reference for mixing and mastering. The open-back design also makes these headphones ideal for casual listeners who appreciate an immersive and natural listening experience. Their comfort makes them an excellent choice for anyone needing headphones for long hours of use, without compromising on sound quality.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the HD 490 PRO Plus for their exceptional comfort and sound clarity, making them a solid choice for those who need reliable audio for extended periods. Many note that the headphones excel at reducing ear fatigue during long sessions, which is a common concern with many high-quality audio devices. However, some users mention the lack of noise isolation due to the open-back design, which may not be ideal for noisy environments. Despite this, the overall feedback highlights the headphones' balanced performance and versatility.

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Pros

The open-back design provides an expansive and natural soundstage, ideal for immersive listening.
Lightweight and comfortable, these headphones are suitable for long hours of use without causing ear fatigue.
The detachable cable adds convenience, making it easier to store and replace if needed.
The inclusion of two sets of ear pads ensures versatility and a customizable fit.
A wide frequency range (5 Hz to 36 kHz) allows for a rich, full-spectrum audio experience.
Perfect for professionals, the dearVR MIX-SE plugin offers enhanced virtual mixing capabilities for audio work.

Cons

The open-back design causes sound leakage, making them unsuitable for noisy environments or public spaces.
Without active noise cancellation, these headphones may not provide adequate isolation in loud surroundings.
Some users report that the lack of deep bass makes them less ideal for bass-heavy music genres.
The wired setup limits portability and convenience compared to wireless headphones.
Not everyone finds the design durable enough for frequent travel or heavy use.
They may not be suitable for those who need noise isolation for studio environments or noisy workspaces.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from various platforms and languages worldwide, the Sennheiser HD 490 PRO Plus Headphones receive consistently high marks for comfort, sound quality, and overall performance. Authentic feedback was carefully filtered to remove spam, bot-generated content, and exaggerated claims, ensuring the results reflect genuine user experiences. Both strengths and pain points are captured in these scores, providing a balanced view based on real-world usage across diverse environments.

Sound Quality

94%

Many users rave about the clarity and precision of the sound produced by these professional headphones. The wide frequency range and uncolored frequency response make them a reliable choice for both casual listeners and audio professionals. The open-back design offers a natural, immersive soundstage, making listening sessions truly enjoyable.

Some users felt the open-back design, while enhancing soundstage, may not be ideal for environments with noise. A few reviewers also noted that while the sound quality is top-notch, it might not provide the deep bass that some users prefer for certain genres of music.

Comfort for Long Sessions

91%

These headphones are highly praised for their lightweight construction and comfortable fit. The over-ear form factor, along with the soft, washable ear pads, makes them an excellent choice for extended listening sessions. Many users report minimal ear fatigue, even during long hours of use, which makes them suitable for professional audio work and casual listening alike.

While generally comfortable, a few users mentioned that the ear pads could feel too tight after several hours of use. Additionally, individuals with larger heads or ears might find them a bit less comfortable after prolonged use.

Build Quality

88%

The build quality of these Sennheiser headphones is solid and durable. Users appreciate the detachable cable, which adds to the longevity of the headphones. The inclusion of two sets of ear pads and the carry case also shows that attention has been given to providing a long-lasting, practical product.

Some users have pointed out that the plastic construction, while sturdy, feels slightly less premium compared to other high-end models. A few reviews also mentioned that the adjustable headband could be a bit more robust for added comfort.

Noise Isolation

45%

55%

The open-back design contributes to a more natural listening experience with an expansive soundstage. Users who prefer a more 'airy' sound are satisfied with how these headphones perform in quiet, controlled environments.

As expected with open-back headphones, they lack proper noise isolation. Several users pointed out that the sound leakage could be a problem in louder environments, and they are not ideal for those seeking a more immersive listening experience with noise isolation.

Ease of Setup

85%

Users find these headphones easy to set up and use right out of the box. The wired connectivity ensures a reliable connection, and the included detachable cable adds to the overall user-friendly design. Many users appreciate the plug-and-play convenience for both professional setups and casual listening.

While setup is generally straightforward, a few users mentioned that the lack of wireless functionality might be a downside for those who prefer Bluetooth or wireless convenience. A small subset of users also reported the initial setup feeling a bit cumbersome due to the lengthy cable.

Durability

86%

The headphones have been well-received for their durability, with many users noting that the materials feel robust and built to last. The detachable cable is especially appreciated for preventing wear and tear over time, and the overall design contributes to a long-lasting product.

However, a few users reported that the plastic construction can feel somewhat fragile in certain areas, especially the headband. While durable for everyday use, they might not hold up as well under rougher handling or heavy travel.

Software Integration (dearVR plugin)

80%

20%

The inclusion of the dearVR MIX-SE plugin is a major plus for music producers and sound engineers. It enhances virtual mixing capabilities and offers a valuable tool for spatial audio, which is well-regarded by users who use these headphones for mixing and production tasks.

Some users felt that the software integration was not as seamless as expected, especially for those unfamiliar with the virtual mixing world. A few reviewers mentioned that the plugin could use more features to justify its inclusion for non-professional users.

Portability

70%

30%

The headphones are relatively lightweight at 200 grams, making them a good option for users who prioritize portability to some extent. They come with a carry case, which helps protect them during travel and makes them easier to transport.

While lightweight, these headphones may not be as compact as some other portable models. The open-back design also means they are less suited for on-the-go use, as they allow outside noise to leak in and sound to leak out, making them less ideal for traveling.

Connectivity (Wired)

90%

The wired connectivity provides a stable and uninterrupted audio experience, with users appreciating the clear and reliable connection, particularly in professional environments. The detachable cable makes storage and transportation easier while ensuring no signal degradation.

The lack of wireless functionality can be a downside for those who prefer Bluetooth or need more flexibility. A small group of users expressed disappointment that the headphones are not equipped with modern wireless options, especially in a world with increasing wireless devices.

Price vs Performance

92%

Users agree that these headphones offer excellent value for money, particularly given their sound quality and comfort. The mix of professional-grade features, such as the wide frequency range and the dearVR plugin, combined with a reasonable price, makes them a solid choice for both casual and professional users.

A few users noted that while the headphones offer strong performance, there are some premium models at a higher price point that may offer additional features, such as wireless capability or more advanced noise cancellation. However, these features are generally not seen as essential by most buyers.

Ear Pad Comfort

89%

The replaceable and washable ear pads are a hit with users, as they ensure hygiene and comfort during long listening sessions. The soft material and overall cushioning help prevent discomfort, even after extended wear.

A few users mentioned that the ear pads could feel a bit too firm initially, especially for those who are used to more plush padding. While they are comfortable for most, individuals with sensitive skin may find them less ideal after prolonged use.

Appearance/Design

80%

20%

The sleek black design and understated aesthetics of these headphones are appreciated by many users. The over-ear form factor provides a professional, minimalistic look, which is fitting for both casual and professional settings.

Some users felt the design was a bit plain and could be more stylish, especially compared to other high-end headphones. Additionally, the black color, while classic, may not appeal to those who prefer more vibrant or customizable options.

Customer Support

75%

25%

Several users have had positive experiences with Sennheiser's customer service, particularly when it comes to warranty claims and product support. The company’s responsiveness is often noted as a key strength for users seeking assistance.

However, a number of reviews mention dissatisfaction with slower-than-expected response times. A few users also reported issues with returns and exchanges, which detracted from the overall experience for those encountering problems with their headphones.

Suitable for:

The Sennheiser HD 490 PRO Plus Headphones are ideal for audio professionals and music producers who need precise, accurate sound for mixing and production tasks. Their open-back design offers an expansive soundstage, making them great for detailed listening and sound localization. The comfortable, lightweight build also makes them suitable for long sessions without causing ear fatigue. Casual listeners who enjoy open-back headphones for a more immersive listening experience will also appreciate these, especially for genres like classical or jazz where clarity and natural acoustics are essential. Additionally, those who need a wired connection and value durable, replaceable ear pads will find this headphone a reliable choice for their needs.

Not suitable for:

These headphones are not the best choice for those seeking noise isolation or a more portable design. The open-back structure means sound leakage, making them less ideal for noisy environments or for use in public spaces like trains or cafes. Users who need wireless connectivity or are on the go will find the wired setup limiting, especially when compared to other models offering Bluetooth options. Furthermore, those who prioritize deep bass may find these headphones lacking in that area, as the emphasis is on natural, accurate sound rather than enhanced low frequencies. Finally, anyone looking for noise-canceling features will need to consider other models, as the lack of noise isolation is a clear drawback in certain settings.

Specifications

Design: Open-back design for a wide, natural soundstage with minimal sound coloration.
Frequency Range: Wide frequency range of 5 Hz to 36 kHz for full-spectrum audio reproduction.
Impedance: 20 Ohms impedance, optimized for high-quality audio playback with various devices.
Drivers: Dynamic drivers deliver clear and accurate sound across the frequency spectrum.
Connectivity: Wired connectivity via detachable cable ensures a stable audio connection.
Ear Pads: Includes two sets of washable, replaceable ear pads for comfort and hygiene.
Weight: Lightweight at 200 grams, designed for comfort during extended listening sessions.
Form Factor: Over-ear design provides an immersive listening experience with good noise isolation.
Noise Isolation: No active noise cancellation due to the open-back design, leading to sound leakage.
Software: Includes dearVR MIX-SE plugin for enhanced virtual mixing and immersive audio experiences.
Packaging: Comes in sustainable packaging, reducing environmental impact.
Color: Finished in black, offering a sleek and professional aesthetic.
Cable: Detachable cable for easy storage and replacement, reducing wear on the headphones.
Durability: Durable construction with replaceable ear pads, ensuring long-lasting use.
Comfort: Lightweight design and over-ear form factor enhance comfort during long listening sessions.
Use Case: Suitable for professional audio work, casual listening, and immersive virtual mixing.
Compatibility: Compatible with most devices with a 3.5mm or 1/4-inch audio jack.
Sound Quality: Uncolored frequency response ensures accurate sound reproduction for critical listening.
Portability: Portable design with a carry case for easy storage and transport.

FAQ

These headphones are known for their natural, wide soundstage, making them ideal for both professional audio work and casual listening. The uncolored frequency response ensures accurate sound reproduction, which is crucial for audio engineers and music producers who require precise reference sound.

Setting up these headphones is simple—just connect the detachable cable to the 3.5mm or 1/4-inch jack on your device. If you want a customized fit, choose from the two sets of ear pads provided, and you're ready to go. No software installation is necessary, but you can enhance your audio experience with the included dearVR MIX-SE plugin for virtual mixing.

Yes, these headphones are designed for extended use. The lightweight construction and over-ear form factor provide a comfortable fit, reducing ear fatigue even during long sessions. Many users appreciate how they remain comfortable for hours of listening or mixing work.

Yes, the ear pads are washable and replaceable, which makes maintenance easier and helps extend the lifespan of the headphones. You can swap them out for the extra set provided, which gives you options for a fresh, clean fit.

The Sennheiser HD 490 PRO Plus Headphones offer accurate, uncolored sound with a wide frequency range of 5 Hz to 36 kHz. This makes them excellent for professionals who need precise sound localization and detailed audio across the entire spectrum, including both low-end and high-end frequencies.

These headphones are lightweight at just 200 grams, making them relatively portable for their category. However, they are wired, so you may find them less convenient for on-the-go use compared to wireless models. The included carry case makes storage and travel easier.

These headphones have an open-back design, meaning they offer excellent sound quality but lack noise isolation. While this design provides a natural soundstage, it may not be ideal for noisy environments where you need to block out external sounds.

While the open-back design offers an immersive listening experience, it may not be ideal for gaming or video calls where you need more isolation from ambient noise. The lack of noise cancellation could lead to sound leakage in noisy settings.

Yes, these headphones are compatible with both Mac and PC systems. The wired connectivity ensures a reliable audio connection across a wide range of devices, and you can use them with any system that supports a 3.5mm or 1/4-inch headphone jack.

These headphones are ideal for audio professionals, such as sound engineers and music producers, who require precise reference sound for mixing and mastering. They're also well-suited for casual listeners who enjoy high-quality, immersive sound in quieter environments, but may not be the best choice for those needing noise isolation.