---
product_id: 605063731
title: "HD 490 PRO Open-Back Professional Headphone"
brand: "sennheiser"
price: "£348.95"
currency: GBP
in_stock: true
reviews_count: 13
category: "Sennheiser"
url: https://www.desertcart.co.uk/products/605063731-hd-490-pro-open-back-professional-headphone
store_origin: GB
region: United Kingdom
---

# Open-back for ultra-wide soundstage Frequency range 5Hz–36kHz for pristine clarity Washable, replaceable pads & eco-friendly packaging HD 490 PRO Open-Back Professional Headphone

**Brand:** sennheiser
**Price:** £348.95
**Availability:** ✅ In Stock

## Summary

> 🎶 Elevate your mix with clarity and comfort that lasts all session long.

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** HD 490 PRO Open-Back Professional Headphone by sennheiser
- **How much does it cost?** £348.95 with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.co.uk](https://www.desertcart.co.uk/products/605063731-hd-490-pro-open-back-professional-headphone)

## Best For

- sennheiser enthusiasts

## Why This Product

- Trusted sennheiser brand quality
- Free international shipping included
- Worldwide delivery with tracking
- 15-day hassle-free returns

## Key Features

- • **Sustainable Comfort:** Washable, replaceable ear pads crafted for long sessions and eco-conscious creators.
- • **Immersive Open-Back Design:** Experience a vast, natural soundscape that puts you in the producer’s seat.
- • **Precision Frequency Response:** Hear every detail from deep lows to sparkling highs with a 5Hz–36kHz range.
- • **Noise-Free Signal Transmission:** Patented coil cable blocks interference, delivering crystal-clear audio every time.
- • **Dual Ear Pads for Focused Mixing:** Switch between mixing and producing pads to eliminate fatigue and pinpoint frequencies.

## Overview

The Sennheiser HD 490 PRO is a German-engineered, open-back professional headphone designed for music producers and audio professionals. It features an ultra-wide soundstage with a frequency response from 5 Hz to 36 kHz, ensuring precise and dynamic sound reproduction. With washable, replaceable ear pads and FSC-certified packaging, it combines sustainability with ergonomic comfort. The headphones include two sets of ear pads tailored for mixing and producing, a patented noise-blocking coil cable, and come with the dearVR MIX-SE plugin for immersive virtual mixing environments.

## Description

Experience the perfect mix of clarity, comfort, and reliability. HD 490 PRO studio reference headphones are built to handle all the complexities of today’s music production. Featuring an open-back design that delivers an extremely wide, dimensional sound stage and ultra-precise sound reproduction, HD 490 PRO gives you the clarity you need for your most critical mixing decisions. Handcrafted and German-engineered with built-to-last components and a lightweight, comfortable design, HD 490 PRO lets you feel the music and forget about the headphones. Meticulously engineered ergonomics eliminate pressure points while the open-back design provides natural ventilation, making hours in the music feel like minutes. Two sets of switchable ear pads, each with a unique sound signature for long hours of mixing and producing, eliminate ear fatigue and are designed with sustainability and durability in mind — they’re both washable and replaceable. HD 490 PRO also includes the innovative dearVR MIX-SE plugin from Dear Reality, placing you in the “sweet spot” and turning your DAW into an ultimate virtual mixing environment. DearVR MIX-SE simulates the carefully designed acoustics of mixing studios, helping you ensure a balanced, consistent translation of your mix on different systems. HD 490 PRO helps you achieve your full creative vision, eliminating audio blind spots, putting you in full control of every detail, and ensuring accurate playback beyond the studio. HD 490 PRO includes: 1.8 m cable, mixing ear pads, producing ear pads.

Review: My Favorite Heaphones so far. - I bought these on an impulse really. I am not a pro of any kind, I am just looking for the good stuff. So I saw new Sennheiser's actually being marketed to working professionals instead of their usual "cool guy" marketing I decided it give it a go. Reviews on the usual sites like rtings were good too. I have to say these things are fantastic. They are actually MORE comfortable than Hifiman Edition XS. In part because they weigh less than half those weigh. My ears are on the large size and they fit in the cups just fine. And I listen to music all day long while working, and so far these clear 8 hours a day with comfort. Oh and I have a huge head. Like I have to get the largest sizes for hats. They fit me fine, no hot spots. Now onto build. The new adjustment mechanism is very nice, the headband is spring steel, and the earcups and hinges are fiberglass-reinforced polymer. So the stuff they make tools and firearms out of. Sure it doesn't feel all that nice to the touch, its a bit like fine sandpaper, but the stuff is 2nd only to steel in terms of durability. This is a HUGE step up from the usual simple plastics of my other headphones. This gives me hope these headphones will stand up well without physically breaking like a few have over the years. I also really like the standard 4 pin mini-XLR connector. This means these are balanced capable right out of the box. And you can switch sides. Now at present its hard to find these since not many companies offer it for headphones, but it means the cable will be easily replaceable when it inevitably breaks. Speaking of cables, the little coil near the headphones really does eliminate "microphonics" from the cable rubbing your shirt. Now for the big one. Sound. I am no pro, and I don't have a fancy set up. But I can say I really like these. I am using the velour "producer" pads because I enjoy that softer sound profile. First of all these ARE producer/mixer headphones. Meaning they are flat, and rather uncompromising. Despite that, they manage to deliver an enjoyable listening experience directly out of my DAC/amp. I can't say the same for some of the Beyerdymanics or Sony production headphones I've tried. They also are sensitive enough to run off typical audio devices like your laptop without an amp, but they do appreciate an amp. What really shines here? They are bright and detailed on the top end yet extend nicely down to give a rich, full bass. Quite possibly the strongest, best bass you are going to find in open-backed dynamic driver headphones. Its deep, rich, clean, and with a nice bit of thump/punch. I find I notice more high end details in my songs wearing these. All while avoiding the piercing, sibilant nature found in so many production headphones. They manage to keep that characteristic "Sennheiser veil" which makes these easy to use and enjoy. The bass its rich, deep, and full. Bass has always been a weakness of open back headphones. These extend down deep and loud like closed backed headphones. It even honestly thumps when the song was mixed for it. And despite this I have never felt the bass was muddy or distorted. Honestly these sound like quality planar magnetic headphones, all while using dynamic Drivers. These also have amazing sound stage, making both games and music a joy to enjoy with these. This is probably the best spatial audio I have ever heard. In games the location of audio is so good I have to resist instinctively looking over my shoulders, and I have been honestly confused if it was storming outside for real, or it was just the game until I checked the game. I have about 6 different pairs of headphones in the $400 range. These are BY FAR my favorite and the ones I keep going back to. I am not sure I am going to find better headphones unless I am willing to spend double the price they go for. I think we can rest easy that Sennheiser Pro still has their magic.
Review: Easy to Drive, Comfortable headphone with fantastic sound in this price. My starting point - This headphone is my first I believe hi-res headphone, so I would first focus on the physical aspect: weight, comfort, design etc. 1. Weight: This headphone is light and I am able to wear it 8 hours straight without any issue. 2. Comfort: Very Very comfortable and it does not feel tight to my head. Because the ear cups are flexible and twistable, it covered my ear perfectly. 3. Design: Very simplistic (which I really like). Although 490 pro is very light, when I hold it, it feel very sturdy, the headband doesn't feel cheap and the adjustable part feel easy to adjust while also hold it position fairly tightly. Notable mention: The cushion is not leather like surface, so no need to worry about the surface get peeled off one day and stuck to your hair. So in terms of the physical aspect of headphone itself, it is 5/5. Now comes to sound quality: - please note: I am not any music creator or professional musical listener. I am just a normal consumer and this is my first time step into this territory. The sound is crisp compared to my previous gaming headphone and it is further enhance if you do some EQ. It is ok if you don't do any EQ but I still feel like do some adjustment is better as after I did some EQ, without it feel a bit plain. But again, the sound itself is very clear and crisp. Very good! New user friendliness: Although the product state it is "Professional Headphone", I feel like it is still very friendly for new user, and here is my reason- no need a bunch of setup for it to work. HD 490 pro has a low enough resistance and fairly high sensitivity to plug directly into your pc and drive using your motherboard. Compare to some other high resistance and/or low sensitivity headphones which needs dedicated amp and/or DAC, HD 490 pro doesn't need you to pay a fortune for it to work. I feel like it is a pretty good entry point for new users who just into music and want to enjoy more on music (like me). You can just get this headphone first to feel the sound enhancement, then after you can by those frontend and get other headphones which needs dedicated frontend. Worth every single penny for this headphone.

## Features

- Open-back design with an extremely wide, dimensional sound stage and ultra-precise localization
- Uncolored frequency response (5 - 36,000 Hz) for honest, dynamic sound reproduction across the full spectrum. Innovative low-frequency cylinder system for full, accurate, and clearly defined low end./
- Sustainability-inspired with washable, replaceable pads and FSC-certified, forest-friendly packaging
- Sennheiser Open-frame Architecture reduces total harmonic distortion (THD) and minimizes resonance, improving audio accuracy
- Two unique sets of ear pads for producing or mixing help eliminate ear fatigue and pinpoint frequencies
- Right and left ear jacks with detachable cable easily adapts to any studio configuration. Patented cable coil structure blocks cable-borne noise, ensuring the clearest signal.
- Patented cable coil structure blocks cable-borne noise, ensuring the clearest signal

## Technical Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| ASIN | B0CP6C4J5W |
| Additional Features | Adjustable Headband |
| Age Range Description | Teen |
| Antenna Location | Recording |
| Audio Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
| Best Sellers Rank | #4,945 in Electronics ( See Top 100 in Electronics ) #202 in Over-Ear Headphones |
| Brand Name | Sennheiser |
| Built-In Media | 1.8m cable, 3.5mm - 6.5mm jack adaptor, HD 490 PRO, Mixing Ear Pads, Producing Ear Pads |
| Cable Features | Retractable |
| Color | Black |
| Compatible Devices | Music Production Equipment, Desktops, Laptops |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Control Method | Remote |
| Control Type | Media Control |
| Controller Type | Wired |
| Customer Reviews | 4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars (301) |
| Earpiece Shape | Over-Ear (Circumaural) |
| Enclosure Material | Aluminum |
| Frequency Range | 5 Hz to 36 kHz |
| Frequency Response | 36000 Hz |
| Headphone Folding Features | Over Ear |
| Headphone Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
| Headphones Ear Placement | Over Ear |
| Impedance | 130 Ohms |
| Is Autographed | No |
| Item Weight | 200 Grams |
| Manufacturer | Sennheiser Pro Audio |
| Model Name | HD 490 PRO |
| Model Number | 700286 |
| Noise Control | None |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Sensitivity | 105 dB |
| Series Number | 700286 |
| Specific Uses For Product | Music, Professional |
| Style Name | HD 490 PRO |
| Theme | Music Production |
| UPC | 615104387676 |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Warranty Description | 2 year manufacturer |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |

## Product Details

- **Brand:** Sennheiser
- **Color:** Black
- **Ear Placement:** Over Ear
- **Form Factor:** Over Ear
- **Impedance:** 130 Ohms

## Images

![HD 490 PRO Open-Back Professional Headphone - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71AOmkVQUYL.jpg)

## Available Options

This product comes in different **Style** options.

## Customer Reviews

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ My Favorite Heaphones so far.
*by C***. on June 4, 2024*

I bought these on an impulse really. I am not a pro of any kind, I am just looking for the good stuff. So I saw new Sennheiser's actually being marketed to working professionals instead of their usual "cool guy" marketing I decided it give it a go. Reviews on the usual sites like rtings were good too. I have to say these things are fantastic. They are actually MORE comfortable than Hifiman Edition XS. In part because they weigh less than half those weigh. My ears are on the large size and they fit in the cups just fine. And I listen to music all day long while working, and so far these clear 8 hours a day with comfort. Oh and I have a huge head. Like I have to get the largest sizes for hats. They fit me fine, no hot spots. Now onto build. The new adjustment mechanism is very nice, the headband is spring steel, and the earcups and hinges are fiberglass-reinforced polymer. So the stuff they make tools and firearms out of. Sure it doesn't feel all that nice to the touch, its a bit like fine sandpaper, but the stuff is 2nd only to steel in terms of durability. This is a HUGE step up from the usual simple plastics of my other headphones. This gives me hope these headphones will stand up well without physically breaking like a few have over the years. I also really like the standard 4 pin mini-XLR connector. This means these are balanced capable right out of the box. And you can switch sides. Now at present its hard to find these since not many companies offer it for headphones, but it means the cable will be easily replaceable when it inevitably breaks. Speaking of cables, the little coil near the headphones really does eliminate "microphonics" from the cable rubbing your shirt. Now for the big one. Sound. I am no pro, and I don't have a fancy set up. But I can say I really like these. I am using the velour "producer" pads because I enjoy that softer sound profile. First of all these ARE producer/mixer headphones. Meaning they are flat, and rather uncompromising. Despite that, they manage to deliver an enjoyable listening experience directly out of my DAC/amp. I can't say the same for some of the Beyerdymanics or Sony production headphones I've tried. They also are sensitive enough to run off typical audio devices like your laptop without an amp, but they do appreciate an amp. What really shines here? They are bright and detailed on the top end yet extend nicely down to give a rich, full bass. Quite possibly the strongest, best bass you are going to find in open-backed dynamic driver headphones. Its deep, rich, clean, and with a nice bit of thump/punch. I find I notice more high end details in my songs wearing these. All while avoiding the piercing, sibilant nature found in so many production headphones. They manage to keep that characteristic "Sennheiser veil" which makes these easy to use and enjoy. The bass its rich, deep, and full. Bass has always been a weakness of open back headphones. These extend down deep and loud like closed backed headphones. It even honestly thumps when the song was mixed for it. And despite this I have never felt the bass was muddy or distorted. Honestly these sound like quality planar magnetic headphones, all while using dynamic Drivers. These also have amazing sound stage, making both games and music a joy to enjoy with these. This is probably the best spatial audio I have ever heard. In games the location of audio is so good I have to resist instinctively looking over my shoulders, and I have been honestly confused if it was storming outside for real, or it was just the game until I checked the game. I have about 6 different pairs of headphones in the $400 range. These are BY FAR my favorite and the ones I keep going back to. I am not sure I am going to find better headphones unless I am willing to spend double the price they go for. I think we can rest easy that Sennheiser Pro still has their magic.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Easy to Drive, Comfortable headphone with fantastic sound in this price. My starting point
*by W***U on January 19, 2026*

This headphone is my first I believe hi-res headphone, so I would first focus on the physical aspect: weight, comfort, design etc. 1. Weight: This headphone is light and I am able to wear it 8 hours straight without any issue. 2. Comfort: Very Very comfortable and it does not feel tight to my head. Because the ear cups are flexible and twistable, it covered my ear perfectly. 3. Design: Very simplistic (which I really like). Although 490 pro is very light, when I hold it, it feel very sturdy, the headband doesn't feel cheap and the adjustable part feel easy to adjust while also hold it position fairly tightly. Notable mention: The cushion is not leather like surface, so no need to worry about the surface get peeled off one day and stuck to your hair. So in terms of the physical aspect of headphone itself, it is 5/5. Now comes to sound quality: - please note: I am not any music creator or professional musical listener. I am just a normal consumer and this is my first time step into this territory. The sound is crisp compared to my previous gaming headphone and it is further enhance if you do some EQ. It is ok if you don't do any EQ but I still feel like do some adjustment is better as after I did some EQ, without it feel a bit plain. But again, the sound itself is very clear and crisp. Very good! New user friendliness: Although the product state it is "Professional Headphone", I feel like it is still very friendly for new user, and here is my reason- no need a bunch of setup for it to work. HD 490 pro has a low enough resistance and fairly high sensitivity to plug directly into your pc and drive using your motherboard. Compare to some other high resistance and/or low sensitivity headphones which needs dedicated amp and/or DAC, HD 490 pro doesn't need you to pay a fortune for it to work. I feel like it is a pretty good entry point for new users who just into music and want to enjoy more on music (like me). You can just get this headphone first to feel the sound enhancement, then after you can by those frontend and get other headphones which needs dedicated frontend. Worth every single penny for this headphone.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good, features, sound, and comfort.
*by (***) on January 4, 2025*

I have tried a multitude of headphones over the last 2 years trying to find something that suits my audio taste, comfort, and features. Some include (all returned for various issues) Air Pods Max, Focals, Audiotechnica, Grado. Many of these are either very heavy, uncomfortable, or power hungry and hard to drive. Some have ergonomics or packaging issues. Some had frankly unreasonable attached cable lengths and comfort issues. Sennheiser has made the best overall design of everything I've tried. Likes: -Reasonably easy to drive on all of my gear including phone, Quedelix 5K, laptop. -Good ergonomics and impressive articulation. The actual driver cups move in every direction and are very cleverly engineered. -Good build quality and materials. -Light weight -The single end output cable is a nice feature and it can be placed on the L or R side, the cable is also nice quality and the coil in the cable is a nice touch. -To me the sound is very clear and well balanced and there is impressive bass when it's present in media. -The fit of these is secure and the cable does not stick down from the driver in an obtrusive way. They feel well proportioned and at times I forget I am wearing them. Dislikes: -The pads are proprietary and although good and there is 2 to choose form in the box, there are no aftermarket options. -Sort of spendy. I did not choose the plus because of its limited usefulness to me however I wish a had the case could not justify the already high prices. I wear headphones for many hours and the most important thing for me is weight and comfort. These are good in that regard and the lower impedance then many in the category is welcome too. I am not hyper critical about sound although I could be. I find that over time I will acclimate unless there is some noticeable issue. The sound is not fatiguing to me and I find them enjoyable. Looking forward to many years of use and I'm glad Sennheiser released something with these features.

## Frequently Bought Together

- Sennheiser HD 490 PRO Open-Back Professional Headphone
- Qudelix-5K Bluetooth USB DAC AMP with LDAC, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, AAC (Dual ES9219 3.5mm Unbalanced & 2.5mm Balanced Output)
- Apple USB-C to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter

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*Product available on Desertcart United Kingdom*
*Store origin: GB*
*Last updated: 2026-07-01*