These are without a doubt a great pair of headphones

The AKG N90Q is a high end noise cancelling headphone! The noise cancelling technology is one of the best I’ve ever heard, and the sound quality is outstanding and wonderfully customizable. All the sound alterations might bum out some audiophile purists, but in my opinion, they are not distracting from the musical experience. However, one downside is that the durable, metal body is a bit heavy, so be sure to get your neck exercises in gear before you buy the AKG N90Q.

While I wouldn’t wear them outside the house, the AKG N90Q are pricey headphones that sound fantastic thanks to some cutting-edge tech.

Whether the next generation of headphones will feature active DSP and built-in DACs remains to be seen, but certainly the likelihood is as more people turn to wireless portable audio, so the headphones will do more to help improve the sound they are fed from Bluetooth, so this might be an evolutionary step toward that goal. But, perhaps more importantly in the short term, the N90Qs more than deserve their place as the top of the AKG tree. The Q keeps on churning out the hits!

The N90Qs are capable and cleverly engineered headphones, but they lack a bit of fun

It isn’t great, but is certainly isn’t bad for the price. Considering all the functions it has to offer, although not quite implemented in a way I would have preferred or that are at all beneficial to the buyer, the N90Q is a good alternative to the K812. It offers a different sound signature in a closed back version and will appeal to those who want $999 sound quality without the need for a separate USB DAC or amp. Just “good” everything in raw quality may equate to a boring tonality to some, but there is no doubting the headphone is accurate and very neutral on tone for the most part. I think this headphone will fill a niche for people who want a little boost on the bass, but without much exaggeration anywhere else. If you want exaggeration, no worries, you can get it with proper EQ, as the headphone responds immensely well to boosting both in the bass and treble regions.

The AKG N90Q are a ridiculously expensive set of over-ear headphones that do their absolute best to impress you, and succeed. But ultimately, even when considering the included accessories, the package just isn't worth the asking price.