I'm the same guy that reviewed this headphones 19 years ago... a lot of things have changed, right now i also own a pair of Grados SR80 and Audio Technica m50x and i use a Micromega MyDAC and an iFi Zen Can Signature amp. First things first: they still are in perfect working order after almost 20 years, i only replaced the earpads a couple of times, they are very light but not so comfy, you feel the pressure after some listening time Sound: it's just fantastic, they remain my favorite headphones although you need an amp to obtain the best of them, with a smartphone for example i prefer the much more efficient Grados. The sound is more in the analytical-side, with clean and open mids and highs, good soundstage and detailed low end that has some nice extension... the low end is surprisingly strong when you pair it with an amp, better than my closed-back Audio Technicas. The highs and mids are a little bit recessed which i appreciate because it avoids fatigue and harshness I love them so much that i just ordered some recent top of the line Beyerdynamics: the DT 1990 Pro, i want to see how much the brand has evolved and how they compare However, if you can find a second hand pair of dt 431 in good shape: grab them!, it's a fantastic performer despite it's age with a very well rounded and balanced sound, which is a pretty rare thing to find

Not very comfy in long sessions, your ears get hot after a while Not the last word in sound resolution or fine detail, i imagine that that's where the new generations have improved

very comfortable, nice detail, very good with voices, not fatiguing after hours of continuated use

not cheap at all, bass could be better

At first i was dissapointed with this cans but now i find them nice. If you are looking for great dynamics and extended bass these are not for you...but if you like to wear cans for hours and don´t wan´t your head to blow up you may like them. Detail is very good and with impressive 3D positioning, sometimes you find yourself looking behind you because you heard something and in fact it is the song you are listening!!.The sound is quite smooth and articulated but a little punch would make this cans better.

Similar Products Used:

sennheiser hd490