My Pick for Top Headphone for Call of Duty

[@FreshReviewsYT]

There are great amp dac solutions in a Lower price range. Purchase responsibly.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Zen dac v3 works great with most of my IEMs and the 490s. The dx9 is more enthusiast grade

[@SamuraiBeavs]

@@FreshReviewsYT hd490 works very well on fiio k11 in my usage!

[@ACE112ACE112]

@@FreshReviewsYTwoah new if zen dac

[@xXxRainingxNukesxXx]

What’s your opinion on the SMSL D6s?Not sure if you’ve gotten a chance to try it but it’s a newer dac and I paired it with a Monoprice THX 887 and Zeus Elites and personally have never heard so crisp and clear before and sound staging I found to be phenomenal for the price the dac comes in at.

[@Phantom1000]

I had paired my 490 with my smsl c200, they worked really well together. However, upgraded to smsl do300ex to have even wider sound stage and better tonality for music.

[@sennheiser]

Not us creeping around your KZbin channel finding this gem... 👀🙏

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Haha a goodie!

[@TheFatalintention]

Uncle Senn, this most be the best gaming/audio channel on YT I bought my 2 sennheisers cans because of him a couple of years ago and now aiming the hd 490. Just saying wink wink.

[@williambrown302]

Hi fresh. Got these headphones and using Qudelix 5k as I have PS5. Stay with this DAC or get one of these?

[@usmankhalid990]

@@TheFatalintentionhow are the 490s??

[@GeroldYT]

thank you for your continued dedication to audio testing

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Thanks

[@CrafteG]

Hello Fresh! Got DT 900 PRO X after your review and pair it with iFi Zen Dac v2. Then got DT 1990 PRO and added ZEN CAN to the stack with Zen Dac v2. Now I got HD 490 Pro and put my DT 1990 PRO aside. HD 490 Pro wow, just wow. Thanks for your handy reviews Man!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Great to hear!

[@Sammy0h]

Hey bro I have the dt 900s, 490 Pro worth the upgrade?

[@BenDover-oc7vl]

@@Sammy0halso have dt900, can’t decide if it’s worth the upgrade. I don’t care about the money just want to know if they are better and worth even bothering about it

[@guybrushtwood]

ZenDac 3 review incoming? You’d be the first one up on KZbin. Been waiting for one for a week now

[@halleberry123]

cant wait too!

[@dc6953]

Literally was looking at COD videos and thought, “I wonder what fresh has uploaded lately?” So I scoot on over here to see this beauty of a video.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Hah

[@matik4605]

0:27 looks like she is wearing goggles haha

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Lol

[@nanker8687]

Great review, like always. Incase if you didn't try one- epos h6 pro are discontinued and they offer close and open back, amazing quality of build and sound and mic as well, comfort is phenomenal. Those are very cheap now because soon will be not existing. Every audiophile guy should have them just because. Thanks for review

[@MertLDN]

Great video. Have you tried EQing the HD 800S to Harman using Oratory1990’s preset? I think that might fix a lot of the Cons you’re experiencing with the HD 800S. In my opinion the HD 800S EQ’d to Harman is the best headphone for gaming

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Actually. I meant to add that into the video. The EQ capability in the 800 is probably fantastic. I haven’t tried yet. You’ll have to tell me more about it

[@sierra7534]

Thanks for this review man. I bought a set of HD560S a couple weeks ago based on your recommendation to replace my older sennheiser gaming headset I've been using for 10 years. They sound great, especially after Oratory1990's eq, but didn't feel they were all that much better than what I had. I just purchased the HD490 Pro as my end game. I'm excited and hoping I like them as much as you do

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Let’s gooooo!

[@princekittipon6510]

HOW WAS IT

[@Justin-bm7zn]

Yeah...how are they in comparison to 560s? We'd like to hear your thoughts too.

[@sierra7534]

@@Justin-bm7zn @princekittipon6510 It's hard guys. I'm still A/B testing them. HD560s with Oratory's EQ (with a little added bass) sound amazing. The HD490s sound a little "better" in the bass thump department but also sound a little muddy/ less detail than the 560s eq'd. I'm REALLY wanting to love the HD490 but I honestly can't say it's worth almost 3x the cost of the HD560 when it's soooo close. The 490s are better but should be priced at $200-$250 max. Asking $400 for these things make them not worth it to me but I have a few more weeks left in the return window so maybe I'll change my mind

[@swanai]

so how are they?

[@Phantom1000]

Buy the HD 490 PRO for COD at your own risk! After using them in the COD warzone for a couple days, I got shadowbanned because of rage reports from the crybabies I killed... All of those crybabies accused me of hacking but I just simply heard exactly where they were in the smoke, exactly how close they were running around the corner to me, exactly where they were squatting in a room and plating up, etc..... Joke aside, the HD 490 Pros is definitely top tier for competitive FPS gaming, I compared it to my Orchestra lite and EM6L, but they are not even close. Shadowban is no joke, but it really says how good these headphones are :-)

[@FreshReviewsYT]

🤣

[@ACE112ACE112]

is shadowban actually a thing or just ur mmr is so high that you get very long queues

[@Phantom1000]

@@ACE112ACE112 it is actually a thing that you can check in there appeal system. Just google “cod appeal a ban”, you will find more infoz

[@Corporalis]

@@ACE112ACE112shadow bans are actually a thing, but it’s not based on reports. There is some sort of AI involved and just bans you. Happened to me 4-5 times now but I got unbanned within 1-2 weeks.

[@Phantom1000]

​@@Corporalis I am pretty sure COD shadowbans are heavily based on user reports. This has been the case since Warzone 2 from COD 19, it was so bad that someone even demoed it on the stream to get another player kicked by spamming report. At the beginning of S2 ranked, people just spam reporting in the pre-match lobby to get the top team kicked and Raven had to remove the "report player" button in the pre-match lobby to mitigate the unfairness.

[@leoclacks]

purchasing the 490s was the greatest purchase that i have done so far!:)

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Let’s go! Love to hear it

[@mryong4021]

What amp/dac do you have?

[@leoclacks]

@@mryong4021 ifi zen dac v2, i also tried the k11 from fiio which also did a good job but i didn't like the harsh treble on it. zen dac is the perfect balance, if you don't wanna completely ruin your bank account, for competitive gaming and music imo :)!

[@RokkitAudioKit]

Topping e50 L50

[@Find_the_Door]

The recently released balanced cable for the 490 Pro really elevates it with the DX9. I did not like the 490 Pro on the DX9 via single ended but it sounds magical with the balanced cable. Enough for me to finally move on from my HD 800 S.

[@uhMaxx]

how‘d you compare the 800s with the 490 pro? the 800s sounded to me warm and rounded, havent tried the 490 pro

[@Alex-oj8po]

I didn't know you got a EF600, nice. I've got the older EF400 and it is absolutely excellent, the Hifiman dacs are really something special. With IEMs though for sure the amps in these units are way overpowered, I think using something like an IEMatch is recommended because these units are primary built to be capable of powering the high-end low sensitivity hifiman planars properly, even the 6kUSD Susvara.

[@StegzGaming]

I completely agree that the 490 is the best competitive headphone I have used and betterthan the 800s and 560s. I kind of hate the fact that a lot of reviewers said the 800s is hands down the best fps headphone that exists even though those reviewers barely touch competitive gaming. I still love my 800s with eq for watching shows and listening to music, but the 560s and 490s have been the best gaming headphones that I have used ever. 490 with cloth pads just has a little more separation than the 560s and better imaging, but both are excellent.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Agreed

[@Find_the_Door]

I disagree after listening to the 490 Pros and HD800 S on the EF600 today. Well, I partially disagree. I think for the average user they're gonna get most of the HD800 experience on the 490s, but the 800 S has a unique ability to recreate an almost 3D sound. For example in SWBF2 2018 go swing your lightsaber with Dooku, you can close your eyes and determine the direction of the swing pattern with the 800 S which you just can't do (or can't do as well) on the 490s.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@Find_the_Door my reviews aren’t for single player games. I appreciate the love though.

[@Find_the_Door]

@@FreshReviewsYT well SWBF2 is primarily multi-player, that's what I'm referring to.

[@Find_the_Door]

@@FreshReviewsYT also R6 Siege on "Lair" if you spawn Northside and walk up the stairs the EF600 really shines with the sounds of all the birds, the echo of the environment. HD 800 S makes you sound like you're there

[@Sora2314]

I bought the HD560S per your previous video recommendations and I’m really excited for it to come in. Although I’ve read that some people don’t like them as much for COD due to less bass on the footsteps. But apparently that can be fixed with EQ. Thoughts on that, good sir?

[@yohanaceron9176]

tremendo canal, justo lo que necesitamos todos los que nos interesa el audio en gaming competitivo; es buenisimo tener la opinion de alguien que comparte la experiencia y lo explica tambien muchas gracias por el contenido amigo

[@kamsole]

Would you say the 490s are a worthy upgrade from the harmonicdyne Zeus? Currently using zan dac v2 and looking toward your zen dac v3 review to see if I should pair that with the 490s

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I would yea

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Both great though

[@Mr.E.C]

I love your reviews. Will you also update the IEMs from your tier list with info on how they perform in COD?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I’ll have a video soon to update on my favorite / top IEM for cod

[@twinkletheater8237]

Please post this as soon as you can! Would be wonderful! Thank you so much for all of your help, knowledge and insight!

[@Mr.E.C]

@@FreshReviewsYT I'm really happy to hear that. Thank you so much for all your work. It was your reviews that made me buy a budget IEM for gaming and to be honest, I'm really impressed. Next up is an IEM that you put at the top of the tier list for COD. The audio quality of the game is shit, but I'm still tired of being confused by the headphones not being able to locate the enemys properly.

[@LegendLuna]

Great take Fresh!

[@johnrambo9441]

Would love to see you review the Audio Technica ATH-R70X. They are highly regarded as having some of the best imaging for gaming, so i'm a little surprised you haven't got your hands on a pair yet. Keen to see how they stack up against the 490 pros. Cheers!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Have tested them. Not a lover. Not bad. Not as good as the 560, 490, 900, 1990 etc.

[@johnrambo9441]

@@FreshReviewsYT Interesting as a lot of comments online have said the opposite. I'll have to give the 490's a go at some point, i have the tea pros on the way 🙂

[@issa3632]

Hey Fresh! I have been seeing a lot of your reviews on headphones, and I have been loving them. However, since I already have the Qudelix 5k, I have always wondered if they were enough to use with something like the HD490 pro. What do you think?

[@williambrown302]

I will try this soon. How did it work for you?

[@garychen4063]

After your last HD490pro video, I purchased the HD490pro to work with my DX5, and I feel very good about using it, but it's still very loud when shooting within COD without turning on the loudness EQ. Can you share the audio setting of COD, or have you used the loudness eq?

[@vitinhomatuto]

I would like to know too

[@BionicEdit]

Same here

[@egogamesmaiker4028]

You keep pumping out Videos! Love it

[@Huang-ue6ft]

If you have the money, you can upgrade to the hdv820 (games only) or Violectric DHA V226(best choose), Violectric V590 (music and games). Using 4.4mm (balanced) for hd800s will expand the sound field, and using 6.35mm (unbalanced) will make the sound field smaller.

[@drizzlydr4ke]

Whats the difference between the zen dac v2 and v3?

[@ArthurYouT]

Very interested to see how the ifi zen dac v3 compares to the v2's and if they are worth the upgrade

[@Justmakesomenoiz]

There isn't any major advantage with v2 vs v3. 😊

[@LegoFerrari]

I used to use dt 990 pros i did not like it however the focal elegia's i got like almost 3 years ago one of the best closed back headphones i've ever had i hate open back headphones with a passion

[@saviour-cka]

Love these comparison videos! I only play valorant but it’s still interesting to hear

[@MydenYT]

The 490s are so solid bro. Literally the perfect mid/high tier headphones without having to spend 1000+ dollars.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Right!!!!

[@mathieuremillard5029]

Hey thanks for the video!! Do you recommend the DX9 with an HD800S for gaming and listening to music? I only have this headphone at the moment and I love it.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Yea the dx9 is great

[@gingi_swagg9304]

I know you said the Yanyin Canon 2 has been the best IEM you’ve tried for CoD. How does it stack up against the HD490’s?

[@manlikeg2794]

I got both the 490, 800s and the DX9 in the end. Agree that the 490 are better for fps gaming, feel like the 800 are almost too wide. Like I can hear someone is there but harder to know where they are exactly. Need to try 800s with eq

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Yea exactly!

[@BenDover-oc7vl]

Have you tried 800s with eq yet. I don’t care about money or having to eq. Just want the best experience

[@Hugo-ou4ce]

How about paring it with the Topping DX3 pro+? Would it work similar to the Zen Dac V3?

[@Justmakesomenoiz]

Just what I was wondering. From what I know the topping is more neutral vs the zendac which has more deeper sound.

[@idonats]

Love to see tested audio gear specific for certain games. Can you do one for valorant?

[@Gidrah]

Hey Fresh I got the HD490 Pro today and do like it but the fabric earpads are super uncomfortable causing the driver cover to scratch my ear pretty badly. The Velour pads are much more comfortable but does using them effect their grade on your tier list? Mainly using for CoD.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@Gidrah for cod the velour is just as good imo

[@N1T3MAN1969]

Great review - Would love to hear our thoughts on the little brother the hd400 pro

[@ShadelessDen]

Thank you for this!!!!!!! I needed to hear this. 🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@ShadelessDen]

I saw that the new DT770 PRO X was released. You going to test those?

[@karansingh4445]

So is there a top iem pick for Call of Duty video also coming?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Yes

[@LouBou100]

Thank you for this great comparative update! I know you can't cater to ALL FPS games but out of curiosity, have you ever played Overwatch? I would love to hear your imput about the sound cues of this game and if you think the 490 Pro would still dominate here.

[@halleberry123]

Have you tested the balanced cable vs the normale one that Sennheiser offers for the HD 490 Pro? I'd be very interested in audio quality differences!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Yes and it all depends on your source

[@halleberry123]

​@@FreshReviewsYTSure, but given that the source is the same. Did you make out any difference between balanced and normal cable with the 490 PRO?

[@dootdoloodoot]

Just found out ur channel and i have a question, what do you think about these headphones for gaming and music: - shure srh440/840 - akg k361/371 - hifiman he400se - sennheiser hd 569 - audio technica m40x Thanks in advance!

[@slightlyaboveav]

Great channel fresh! Having a channel that focuses on high level audio for gaming is awesome. Have you used the Focal Clear before (OG). Considering an upgrade/change to either the 490 or Xenns Top. Do you feel there is a clear better option for either? Always used headphones but iems do intrigue me, wondering if they offer any benefit besides isolation. Edit: Mainly Warzone Thank you!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I personally prefer IEMs. I haven’t tried the clears in a very long time. I’d recommend the 490 for a headphone for sure if you want to stay that route. For IEMs I’d recommend going for the Arete or canon 2 and saving a little money. If you want to go high end though the fiio fa19 is great

[@slightlyaboveav]

@@FreshReviewsYTthanks for the reply. Will probably look at changing dac/amp as I am using a v1 zen dac/can. Do you feel the Hifiman EF600 would be a suitable upgrade? I would prefer something with balanced ins and outs.

[@TBump37]

Currently comparing/testing the 900 pro X and the HD560S for CoD specifically. Leaning towards the proX. Now you threw another wrench in the game... unsure the 490s are worth DOUBLE the price I paid for the first two tho....

[@iNxL]

Had the 900prox and hd560s, now using the hd490s for 2 months+ (got them for 340€). Would switch any time again.

[@Dew4lk]

Are they good for music as well? And is dac amp a requirement? Currently running 900 pro x plugged in to mobo.

[@TBump37]

@@Dew4lk I'm testing both using a Topping Dx3pro+. My impression are that the 560s feels light and open. The 900 pro x's feel heavier and more closed. The quality of the 900 make me lean towards them but theres something about the 560s that just feel easy... currently testing them both with oratory EQs

[@leoclacks]

@@iNxL exactly the same here! + the comfort is unmatched on the 490s.

[@leoclacks]

@@Dew4lk they are insane for music! when i first tried them i was blown away by how much i can hear. i have pretty good onboard audio already and ordered a zen dac v2 for comparison and the zen dac does a lot to the sound, it further reduces the muddiness and improves the clarity in sound. on board audio is a bottle neck with headphones like this imo. the fiio k11 also does the cheap but overall feels cheaper and has a more sharp treble which i personally didn't like.

[@jusplainscott]

I really liked my 490s, but the foam inside the earcup touches my ear. That was after only a few weeks. I'd imagine they pads would compress even more, the foam would touch even more, as time goes by.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

That’s unfortunate. Hopefully there are third party pads soon that are thicker for you

[@BenchmarkingTom]

Hi, would you also place the HarmonicDyne Zeus Elite in the top picks category alongside the 490 Pro and 800S? Mainly for someone who already owns the HD 560S and is looking for something better? Can the Zeus also be expected to perform perfectly in competitive games like the 490 Pro, or is it better to go with Sennheisers? Additionally, besides COD and Apex, I also play Valorant and CS2. I also noticed that in your description, the 490 Pro has an (A+) rating, while the Harmonic has a (B+) rating, the same as the HD560S. I'm wondering how significant this difference is and which would be the better choice considering I already have the HD560S. From what you've mentioned, it seems that the Harmonics have a more enjoyable sound for listening to music, which also attracts me to them, but I'm not sure which model offers more benefits overall.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Yes the Zeus is in my top pick list

[@akoskolok]

Great review man! Do you recommend the HD 490 Pro over the PC38X? I want to upgrade. Thanks!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Yes, definitely

[@Slabsymcslabserson]

Great video! do you think the zen dac would work better than the schitt stack or something similar for the 490s for gaming?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Haven’t used a schiit stack I hear the zen dac is fine

[@rach7962]

Awesome reviews!! INTUAURA SplendorII or HD 490 Pro for PS5? also which Mic I can use? I need to communicate with teammates. It's really hard in COD to find where the enemies are.. the sound is kind of muffled.. thanks

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I think the 490s would be too hard to drive well. The splendor 2 should be ok

[@ezrahsenseii]

Can you make a new review on the IFI Dac V3 for gaming please

[@ArthurKlucznik]

I am running the 490 pro with the cloth pads, a balanced 4.4mm cable and zen dac 3. Great combo!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Boom!

[@Kohgie]

What’s a balanced cable where do I hook it up and where can I buy one ?

[@iviiroglu]

which balanced 4.4mm cable ?

[@paul2609]

If you like the HD800 then you might like the ATH-ADX5000. They sound similar but it has some bass unlike the HD800, so it's more balanced while being just as technical, no downsides compared to the HD800.

[@dardo23]

Your content is hidden gem man!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@dardo23 tysm

[@Pe721]

i like my pc360=hd560=g4me more than the akg k702 for gaming so i will buy your recommendation next. Did you try any planars like hifiman ananda? Well i see you tried some but the Ananda seem to be in your liking for what i read online. Will try them next month

[@mertozdemir4348]

@FreshReviewsYT Nice review as always, but Which IEM would you recommmend for competative gaming from these two? EM6L or Sennheiser IE200, i want it to be sound neutral and warm not so much harsh treble.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I don’t recommend the 200 for gaming

[@mertozdemir4348]

@@FreshReviewsYT Okay ty good to know and which One would recommend for competetive fps Gaming, which Sounds warm neutral without harsh treble?

[@EvLTimE]

I didnt expect that video. Thank you. You need to try hd490 with balanced cable. From many people i hear that it scales really well with source. Not picky as hd800s but opinions a little bit diiferent about how good is sound of hd490 on more expensive gear

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Thanks. I grabbed a hart cable and a grave digger. Sound great!!!

[@EvLTimE]

@@FreshReviewsYT By the way thanks for your advice to pick more powerful amo for Arya. I was torn apart between Dx9 and fiio k19. Decided to pick Dx9 with OG AKM. It's really musical after K9 pro ess and bass layering is superb. Thank you for your advice

[@D0WnL0DeR]

Would the HD 490 Pro's with Zen dac v3 be good for competetiv FPS games aswell would you say, or are there better options for this?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Yes that’s mainly what I focus my audio on. Competitive gaming

[@Pe721]

Did you try eletrostatic headphones? Very expansiv and limited info for gaming sadly. Didnt know it was different from planar

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I haven’t yet

[@KaibillKaan]

Good update review/comparison. If you continue to do budget dac/amp reviews, do try getting your hands on the new Schiit Magni Unity and JDS Labs Atom 2 stack. Would love to see how they compete with the current offerings. Also, now that youve gotten a good amount of dacs under your belt, any opinion on which chip you prefer, AKM or ESS? Do they sound any different to you? Thanks for the quality of content Fresh!! Top Tier as always!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I’m preferring akm tbh

[@nonameeeeEeno]

How is the sound of the zen dac/ ef compared to the k9 (the normal one apart from the pro/akm) ? Like is it an upgrade in sound over something like a zen dac for you?

[@nonameeeeEeno]

cause I don‘t wanna spent 1300 or 700 on an amp/dac but maybe like 400 xD

[@nonameeeeEeno]

also extremely high quality content as always. u are basically the only channel testing these audiophile headphones for gaming on yt so +++++

[@Find_the_Door]

I have HD-800-S, iFi Zen Dac v2 and Schiit Jotunheim. Should I move the the 490 Pro if I primarily game? I just want something with more impact and to not lose the imaging of the HD800S or as little of it as possible.

[@theexpatgunner]

I have the Sennheiser HD 660S2 paired with FIIO K11 using the balanced output and wonder how the HD 490 would compare and if its worth the switch up. Any comments and feedback on views welcome.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

The 490 is just better for gaming compared to the entire 6 line

[@theexpatgunner]

Thanks, I ended up getting the DT900 Pro X and upgrading to FIIO K19 and it’s an excellent paring. HD 490 Pro are next on my list.

[@Nik-hs3vg]

Do you recommend saving up a bit for the 490 ro buy the 900 pro x? Is there a huge difference?

[@Nik-hs3vg]

Just watched your review of the 490s and you go into detail about this. Thanks fresh! Legend

[@cryptok9185]

Hey mate been a long time sub and about to pull the trigger on the 490 Pros! My main use will be gaming and FPS games like call of duty. If you had to pick from there DAC/AMPS which would you choose? where I am there all about the same price. I have fallen on either Topping DX3 Pro+, FiiO K11 or the Zen dac v3 appreciate any advice :)

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Topping should be fine from what I hear from other comments

[@cryptok9185]

@@FreshReviewsYT you don’t sound to convincing lol

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@cryptok9185I’m only going off comments from others who have tried it with the dx3. I haven’t combined the two

[@cryptok9185]

@@FreshReviewsYT I am ready the k11 has a balanced output where the others don’t? I don’t even know what that means tbh does that matter to me if all I use these headphones for is pc gaming and a modmic wireless?

[@halleberry123]

​@@cryptok9185 zen dac v3 also has a balanced output

[@barkond]

I see you have a Focusrite interface lying in the corner. Also I remember you recommending Sennheiser HD 560S. I recently bought HD 560S, do you thing I'll benefit from buying dedicated dac/amp for it, or Focusrite will do? Sorry for the offtopic question.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Haven’t tried running cans off of it. Currently only using it for my mic. Maybe I’ll try soon

[@barkond]

@@FreshReviewsYT got it, thank you

[@VeIocity2k4]

Been watching your reviews for a while now and i'm trying to decide whether to give iems a try (Yanyin canon 2) or go with the 490's. Which one would provide the better "wallhack" experience?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

The 490s if you can drive them well. Both are fantastic though. Really depends if you want IEMs or cans

[@VeIocity2k4]

@@FreshReviewsYT I'm currently using a ifi zen dac v2 and dt 900 pro x. Looking for a all around upgrade. Would you consider the topping dx3 pro better than the zen dac?

[@Аларак-в5г]

Hello Fresh, have you tried Arya Stealth in competitive games? I wonder how it performs there compared to hd 490 pro. Trying to choose between 490 pro and Arya Stealth, both have almost the same price in my region, he1000se and hd800s is quite expensive for me

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I haven’t sorry

[@Asiro-S]

how much of difference between IEM & headphones right now? thanks for videos, ordered orchestra lite, yanyin cannon 2 and truthear chronicle to compare.

[@atom631]

what mid-range (300-700) AMP/DAC would be best for the HD490s? Im down to JDS Atom 2 Stack, Topping DX7 pro+, Fiio K9 AKM, Fiio K9 Pro ESS

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Haven’t tried anything from JDS. I’ve heard the dx7 is nice but I haven’t used it personally.

[@atom631]

@@FreshReviewsYT thanks. you think i should stay away from the FIio K9? i know in your original HD490 review, you mentioned that there was a noticable difference in sound from the dx9 (but thats out of my budget).

[@ruilobaodefigueiredo349]

Do you have the same opinion for CS2? i'm looking for a new audio setup for Gaming(90% cs2) , and i'm tired of waste money on gaming headset.

[@cryapa]

Since you gave hd490s pro so high rating, i order one 😂hope it works great with my topping dx7 pro+😅

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Should be great!

[@SodaUploads]

I am currently still on the DT 900 Pro X, I have the C200 still that you sold to me, the question is, if I want to go up from here, what is your best recommendation? Always appreciate your help man!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Worth trying the 490 on the SMSL

[@Icy20]

Hey man. Thanks for the vid. I puchased the 490s eventually after a lot of vids i saw... Do u use any EQ for cod warzone? I use the Equalizer Expo with peace. Thanks

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@Icy20 I don’t. You can fool around but default tuning is good on both earcups. Try both and see which you like more

[@Icy20]

@@FreshReviewsYT thanx for answering. i got an EQ from your friend gadgetrytech from the site that does the auto EQ on your headphones for warzone specifically. i kinda liked it i just wanted to see what other ppl use for this stupid game.

[@williambrown302]

@@Icy20in the same boat. What you ended up doing?

[@Icy20]

@@williambrown302 i used them with no eq but since then i mainly use IEMs for cod.

[@williambrown302]

@@Icy20 ok. Which IEMs worked well for you?

[@mr.bopington6065]

would a go xlr mini be able to drive these or is it not powerful enough?

[@whosane8172]

love your content man! but i NEEEED a budget iem video for call of duty!

[@maxkruppa3716]

Which headphones would you recommend for FPS shooters, especially COD, the Sennheiser 490 or the Arete IEMs? I'm currently using the Kiwi orchestra Lite and I'm not happy with them, they're not comfortable enough for me.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I would go one or the other depending on what you want headphones or an IEM

[@maxkruppa3716]

@@FreshReviewsYT That's the problem, I don't know. Actually, I only switched to IEMs because I was getting headaches with over-ear headphones (from too much pressure). But I didn't like the comfort of the Orchestra Lite at all; the sound was outstandingly good.

[@Ali-ei3nk]

I'm about to buy HD490 or 400pro/560s, but for the price of the 490 the swiveling hinges/yokes seems like a failure point to me. How you feel them in terms of real world durability ? Thank you

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I could probably see issues if you’re taking them around and traveling unless you get the carrying case

[@BLAKGRIP]

I'm gonna get those HD 490 pro. those are my endgame. Also you got a favorite glass pad to combo with the Beast X?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Love the Akari but it’s limited. Other options are great including the sp004 and superglide or padsmith empress

[@markus301]

Hi, I wanted to ask you if your main iem right now is the momarch mk3 for fps games?

[@Killuayma]

If you was going into a tournament for cod SnD and had a budget of 500 what would be your absolute go to

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Probably a Yanyin canon 2 paired on a topping dx3 pro +

[@FreshReviewsYT]

And that’s if you need an amp dac also

[@Killuayma]

In your opinion what puts the cannon 2 over the HD 490

[@Killuayma]

@@FreshReviewsYT also would that amp work w Xbox

[@nickskep]

On the topic of COD, I am crazy, or do the HYPERX CLOUDs perform better than PC38x. I felt sounds were getting lost in PC38x and although can hear them I could not tell from which way enemies were coming. Was wondering if you tried the HYPERXs and your thoughts?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I didnt like the pc38x. You’re not crazy hehe

[@someth1ngsov1et]

Hey bro, I was searching for the new headset cuz I want to switch from my ROG asus theta 7.1 that I bought 3 years ago and I wanted to buy IE 600 because optimum tech was using IE 300 and I thought that IE 600 would be awesome for media consumption and for gaming and after I saw your review about IE 600 I was kinda disappointed in those iems and after I saw this video I wanted to ask you if you know something similar like those HD 490 pro but in a form of iem or should I just get those headphones instead of iem for best performance in games? Thanks.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Up to you really. But the splendor II and Yanyin canon 2 are great

[@piercesyndicate5629]

I Noticed on your wallhack list the 490 Pros are A+ and you really like them for COD when comparing them to IEMS are they just that much better for COD? Or do you still prefer IEMS?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@piercesyndicate5629 I prefer iems

[@piercesyndicate5629]

@@FreshReviewsYT Thanks for the fast reply is that due to the performance or mainly just based on the comfort?

[@leryeo]

out of all the dac/amps you own/use, in what order would you rank them in terms of sound quality when used with the 490 pros?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Oh man that’s a tough one. In terms of all in ones I like my dx9 the most

[@crate718]

you have to try aune s17 pro class A amp. I learned class A amps have way better imaging then class D. the letter inside the cups of the 490 really scratched my ears. I hate the mixing pads the regular pads are a million times better

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Hopefully we get some third party cups also

[@Rixdler]

Great video! I hope at some point you can try out the Sennheiser HD620S from a gaming perspective. 😁

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Pre ordered it!

[@bradceurvels9448]

How did you EQ for COD with the 490s any video recommendations?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

No eq necessary but I do use an amp dac and not on board audio

[@bradceurvels9448]

@@FreshReviewsYT thanks for the speedy response...keep up the good work your chanel is awesome

[@Jake_YZ29]

I"m struggling to decide between the HD560S, HD490 Pro, or the orchestra lites. Which one is the best option?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Really depends if you want an IEM or not. Personally it’s a very tough call between the 560 and 490. For me it is easier because the 490 is way more comfortable for headphones. I do think they perform better for gaming as well and I like the interchangeable earcups. The price difference is annoying though

[@bryandrums9275]

Do a review on the Hifiman Arya Organic

[@masonhill6113]

hey do you think one of those DAC’s is a must have? i just ordered the 490 pros

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Just depends what you are using but yes I use an amp dac and it’s preferable over on board audio

[@haskell3702]

What do you prefer for COD headphones or IEMs?

[@maltakar9879]

Did you test the 490 in Valorant by any chance? Of you did, whats your opinion?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Amazing

[@williambrown302]

Thanks fresh. How do these compare with Audeze MM-100 for COD?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Haven’t used it

[@oneill7169]

@FreshReviewsYT, I'm currently using the orchestra lite for call of duty but i'm currently looking at the HD 490 pros would this be considered an upgrade?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Yes

[@oneill7169]

@FreshReviewsYT thank you for your reply!

[@BionicEdit]

Do you use any EQ settings or tweak any windows settings with these ?

[@Aggiblr]

Is there any IEM close to the HD490pro for a similarish price for COD?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I like the splendor 2 and yanyin canon 2 so far for cod

[@thereaperscoming]

Hey Fresh, I've been looking for some info and ended up finding your channel. Congrats on the great content, I appreciate how you break things down so people like me can understand (old folks 😂). After days in the rabbit hole, I ended returning my new gaming headset ( astro a50x), now I'm looking into diving in the IEM's world and headphones for gaming. Thought about going the old route, buying one piece of equipment for all my gaming, but after all the homework, I think I'm going to buy 2. One for story based game where I can get lost in that world and one first person shooters. I'm usually playing more first person shooters, Apex and COD, so maybe that would be the priority. I keep looking at wallhack list and not sure what to do. If you had $300 dollars to spend buying one IEM and one Headphone , knowing what mentioned here and your awesome knowledge, how would you spend? What would you buy. Thank you in advance and to anyone in the community that answers. Many blessings.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

The harmonicdyne Zeus elite would slap for a headphone for both fps and story games. The yanyin canon 2 or splendor would be great for an IEM.

[@thereaperscoming]

@FreshReviewsYT thank you! I appreciate you taking the time to answer my question. I will definitely let you know which one I go with. Out of curiosity, which one of those two would go with? Have a blessed day. Thank you for what you do.

[@Gershy13]

Thoughts on the EA500LM or EA1000 for gaming? Or some of the Myer audio stuff? (Pula PA02/CKLVX D41/Sliivo SL41)

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Trying my best to catch up and get a video out on all three

[@Gershy13]

@@FreshReviewsYT Awesome, cant wait!

[@dadox24]

Hello, I caught you by accident buying the Arete, I wanted to ask you a question I have the dt 990 pro headset and I would like to buy the 490 pro is there so much difference on warzone?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Between those two yea

[@FreshReviewsYT]

490 is great

[@qurat9788]

hey just wondering, whats your sens / dpi for cod? :)