The Sennheiser HD 490 Pro delivers exceptional comfort and significantly improved sub-bass extension compared to earlier models like the HD 650. It offers two ear pad options—fabric mixing pads for analytical neutrality and velour producing pads for enhanced bass and treble. While it provides excellent channel balance and is well-suited for mixing, mastering, and production, the high-mids and treble response falls slightly short of the HD 650's neutrality. The headphones are ideal for professionals seeking accurate sound reproduction and long listening sessions.
Full review
Comfort and build quality
The HD 490 Pro delivers exceptional comfort for extended listening sessions, with a weight of 260 grams that feels remarkably light despite the substantial build. Reviewers noted that the unit's design prioritizes comfort over minimalism, featuring plush velour earpads and headband cushions that distribute pressure evenly across the head. The build quality reflects Sennheiser's attention to detail, with a combination of plastic and metal components that feel solid without being overly heavy. The headphones incorporate a collapsible design that makes storage and travel easier, particularly when paired with the optional hard case included in the Pro Plus package. Users reported that the headphones can be worn for hours without fatigue, with one reviewer noting they were comfortable enough to fall asleep in during long mixing sessions.
Dual-pad tuning system
The HD 490 Pro features a dual-pad system that offers two distinct sound signatures, one designed for mixing and another for producing, per Unheard Lab. The fabric mixing pads deliver a more neutral and analytical response, while the velour producing pads provide enhanced bass and treble for a fuller, more engaging sound. The mixing pads are described as offering excellent neutrality, particularly in the midrange, but reviewers noted that they fall short in treble compared to the HD 650. The producing pads, on the other hand, provide a warmer, more rounded sound that is easier to enjoy for casual listening. This system, while innovative, introduces complexity that may not benefit all users, particularly those seeking a consistent reference for critical work.
Frequency response and tonality
In terms of frequency response, the HD 490 Pro demonstrates a balanced performance across the audible spectrum, with particular improvements in sub-bass extension compared to previous models like the HD 650. The fabric mixing pads offer a flat response that is suitable for critical listening, while the velour producing pads provide a warmer, more engaging tone that is better suited for production work. The headphones' open-back design allows for a wide soundstage and excellent spatial awareness, though this also means they are less suitable for noisy environments. One reviewer noted that the low end, while improved, still lacks the fullness and impact that some users might expect from a professional studio headphone. The treble response, particularly with the mixing pads, is described as neutral but slightly rolled off, which can limit air and sparkle in the sound. The overall tonality is considered accurate and reliable, though not particularly exciting for casual listening.
Performance in professional settings
Professional users have found the HD 490 Pro to be a reliable tool for mixing and mastering, with reviewers noting its ability to translate well to studio monitors and other playback systems. The headphones' open-back design provides excellent spatial accuracy, making them suitable for tasks that require precise stereo imaging and panning. One reviewer noted that the headphones performed well when used with a laptop's integrated sound card, providing sufficient volume without requiring a dedicated amplifier. The dual-pad system allows for flexibility in different workflows, with the mixing pads offering a more neutral reference for critical listening and the producing pads providing a more engaging sound for creative work. However, the headphones' performance in professional settings is somewhat limited by their inability to fully replicate the low-end impact that some users might expect from a high-end studio headphone.
Comparison to previous models
The HD 490 Pro represents a significant improvement over previous models like the HD 650, particularly in terms of sub-bass extension and overall neutrality. However, it does not surpass the HD 650 in every aspect, with some reviewers noting that the treble response remains less neutral than the older model. The HD 490 Pro also differs from the HD 600 and HD 660S2 in its approach to sound signature, offering a more versatile solution through its dual-pad system. The headphones' performance is considered competitive within its price range, though they do not quite match the precision and clarity of higher-end models like the Sony MDR-MV1 or Neumann NDH 30. The HD 490 Pro's ability to provide two distinct sound signatures makes it a more flexible option for users who work across different genres and production styles.
Practical considerations and usability
Practical usability of the HD 490 Pro is enhanced by its included accessories, including a longer cable, spare earpads, and a 1/4-inch adapter plug. The single-sided mini-XLR cable design allows for symmetrical attachment to both ear cups, which helps maintain balanced frequency response. The pad switching mechanism, while functional, is described as cumbersome and time-consuming, which may deter casual users from experimenting with different sound signatures. The headphones are also noted for their washability, with Sennheiser claiming that the earpads can be machine-washed, though this may affect their shape and frequency response over time. The overall package, including the included case and accessories, makes the HD 490 Pro a practical choice for professionals who require portability and versatility in their studio setup.
Strengths
- +Superb comfort with relaxed clamping force and evenly distributed pressure
- +Vastly improved sub-bass extension over previous models like the HD 650
- +Usable with mobile devices via 3.5mm jack and 6.3mm adapter
- +Two ear pad options offer different frequency responses for mixing or producing
Watch-outs
- −High-mids and treble are less neutral than the HD 650
- −Hard plastic parts may inspire concerns about long-term reliability, per Sonarworks
How it compares
The Sennheiser HD 490 Pro stands out from the HD 650 with its improved sub-bass extension and dual ear pad options for mixing or producing, while the HD 650 maintains its iconic neutrality and plastic design. Unlike the Audeze LCD-X, it avoids the high price point and bulkiness, though it lacks the open-back design that makes the HD 800 S more immersive.
Rating sources
“I quickly fell into a state of trust with HD 490 PROs, and after a few hours, my ears were not feeling that headphone drag (no noticeable fatigue or ear soreness).”
“The Sennheiser HD 490 Pro headphones are, no lie, excellent.”
Our 4.4 score is the average of the 4 scored reviews above; 6 more reviewed it without printing a score and are not in the average. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
