Impedance question

Virgule · July 10, 2014

Hi,

Ok so I just browsed through the FAQ sticky of this section and my question isn't quite answered.

I'm looking to buy a good over-hear headset and was thinking about the Beyerdynamic DT990, which I can find in locals for around 250$ in good condition. This particular model comes in different impedance versions.

Now coming from an engineering background, if I remember my electrical eng. courses correctly, I understand that impedance is roughly a measure of how easily a current goes through a circuit. Now what I don't get is why would I want the high impedance versions if I can have the 25 ohms ones that can be used in pretty much any situation, because they wouldn't require a separate amplifier. Given that onboard audio is often pretty darn good, why would I want the 250 ohms over the 32 ohms ?

Thanks for the help.

EmoRarity · July 10, 2014

There are sligfht differences, but nothing night and day. I mainly think its manufacturing tolerance and economics. "Spend more for convenience."

NannerBeans · July 10, 2014

The 250ohm one is usually cheaper in most places but they all sound almost the same so you won't be missing out on anything if you go for the 32 ohm ones. I actually have a pair of those coughcough

Virgule · July 10, 2014

There are sligfht differences, but nothing night and day. I mainly think its manufacturing tolerance and economics. "Spend more for convenience."

The 250ohm one is usually cheaper in most places but they all sound almost the same so you won't be missing out on anything if you go for the 32 ohm ones. I actually have a pair of those coughcough

Thanks guys.