I just recently buy a DT990 250ohms version. It sounds very nice, but it’s way tool quiet with my gear….
I can’t afford an expensive headphone amp now. I plan to sell the 250ohms version and get an 80ohms version.
Question:

What do you think, the 250ohms version would sounds better with a cheap amp (like Soundblaster Play 4) or a 80ohms would sounds better directly to MacBook pro 2016?

I have dt990 250 ohms version, you do not necessarily need a super expensive headphone amp to properly drive these high impedance headphones. I have used a multitude of consumer grade audio interfaces and have never had any issues with clarity or volume. you will however be required to use an interface/converter that has a dedicated headphone out, as well as a little 3.5 mm - 1/4 trs adapter.

if you do not use an interface or converter that has a dedicated headphone output and do not wish to purchase an amp for your 250ohm dt990's then they will not be driven properly and you would be better off selling the 250's and finding one of the lesser impedance models.

good luck

MacBook Pro 2021 and newer, handle up to 600ohm headphones- interesting.
So upgrading the MacPro might be something to think about too. $$$ between a 2016 and 2021+ is $$?

the 80ohm and the MacBook Pro 2016 for now.
You could try AUDEZE MM100 Open backs at 18 ohm. $400..- selling the 250ohm. (I've never tried these but the ohm is low!)

Cheaper Dedicated Dac/Headphone amp $250~$350...

Yeah, I heard that newer Macbook pros can drive high impedance headphones, but my MacBook Pro is 2016, works fine, and would cost a lot to upgrade for 2021 MacBook…

Yes the newer Macs output more power, but it’s not great quality. You’d get better quality with something from Topping, for example. But, then, that’s another box.

There’s nothing wrong with the cans. Best bet is a decent DAC.

What do you think something like: Shanling UA1S, iFi Audio GO link?

If you can make the ££ get a used Chord Mojo, it is the loudest thing I have ever plugged my 250ohm 990s into to.

Stunning sound too.

If not look for something that is mains powered as most USB bus powered will struggle to present fully.

Chord Mojo is too expensive for me right now…I looking for something more affordable, portable option…

They are about £150 on eBay.

I think that's cheap.

I have the 250 and 80 ohm versions of the DT-770. They sound noticeably different. The 80 ohms has a loud, rumbly bass that I use for video games and movies. The 250 ohm has an even response that I use for music.

I think my Macbook can drive the 250 ohm, though. Do you have an Apple Silicon mac? They upgraded the headphone amp in there to specifically drive high impedance phones.

I have a 2016 MacBook Pro, the newer MacBooks ������ equipped with output for high impedance Headphones…We discussed above.

I asked before reading the whole thread. Apologies.

I have those two as well and your description is a good one.

Basically it's the same deal with 990s and ohms as well.

It's like with guitar pickups. Change the coil wire and the sound is noticeably different.

Probably even more so since the high impedance membrane gets "stopped" by the amp's output more. In fact that could explain the rumbly bass.