Audio Technica ATH-A990Z

Art Monitor closed-back headphones in green aluminum with D.A.D.S. system for low frequencies

• Art Monitor series closed-back dynamic headphones, with lightweight green aluminum ear cups
• 53 mm drivers with OFC copper voice coils wound on a support and integrated yoke
• Top-mounted printed circuit board for precise transient response
• Dual-chamber D.A.D.S. system for deep, natural bass
• Frequency response from 5 to 42,000 Hz and maximum power handling of 2,000 mW
• Impedance: 44 ohms; sensitivity: 100 dB
• 3D Wing headband and soft ear cushions for a stable fit
• 3-meter fabric-covered cable with a gold-plated 3.5/6.3 mm two-way plug

The Audio-Technica ATH-A990Z are closed-back dynamic headphones from the Art Monitor series, featuring lightweight aluminum ear cups with a green finish. They combine 53 mm drivers with OFC copper voice coils, the D.A.D.S. system for the low end, and the 3D Wing support for detailed, isolated, and comfortable listening—ideal for home hi-fi and extended listening sessions.

53 mm drivers with OFC copper voice coils and integrated yoke

The 53 mm drivers feature an OFC copper voice coil wound on a support and an integrated yoke. The printed circuit board is mounted in a high position to allow more space for airflow behind the diaphragm: the result is excellent transient response, with well-defined attack and detail across the entire frequency range, from 5 to 42,000 Hz.

Lightweight aluminum ear cups

The aluminum ear cups contribute to the structure’s rigidity while keeping weight down, and their green finish defines the A990Z’s aesthetic.

Dual-Chamber D.A.D.S. System for Deep, Natural Bass

The D.A.D.S. (Double Air Damping System) divides the ear cup into two chambers, controlling the movement of air behind the driver. This results in deep, natural bass that is well separated from the midrange and free from the boomy effect typical of many closed-back headphones.

3D Wing headband and fabric-covered cable

The 3D Wing headband and soft ear cushions ensure a stable and comfortable fit. The 3-meter fabric-covered cable features a gold-plated stereo plug with 3.5-mm and 6.3-mm connectors, allowing connection to both portable devices and headphone amplifiers.

ATH-A990Z vs. ATH-A550Z: The Differences

Compared to the ATH-A550Z, the ATH-A990Z features an OFC copper voice coil instead of CCAW, aluminum ear cups, a maximum power handling of 2,000 mW, and an extended frequency response up to 42,000 Hz. With an impedance of 44 ohms and a sensitivity of 100 dB, it’s easy to drive, and its performance improves even further when paired with a good headphone amplifier.

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Audio-Technica
• Model: ATH-A990Z
• Series: Art Monitor
• Headphone Type: Closed-back
• Driver Type: Dynamic
• Driver diameter: 53 mm
• Voice coil: OFC copper wound on a support
• Magnetic circuit: integrated yoke
• Ear cups: aluminum, green finish
• Bass system: D.A.D.S. (Double Air Damping System) dual-chamber
• Mount: 3D Wing
• Impedance: 44 ohms
• Frequency response: 5 – 42,000 Hz
• Sensitivity: 100 dB
• Maximum input power: 2,000 mW
• Weight: 335 g
• Cable: 3 m, fabric-covered
• Cable connector: gold-plated 2-way stereo plug, 3.5 / 6.3 mm