Short answer: the Fostex T40RP Mk3. It ranks #317 of 481 over-ear headphones by sound quality, rated 3.2/5, at $189.99; the Beyerdynamic MMX150 ranks #365, rated 2.9/5, at $189.99. With prices this close, go by the sound-quality ranking rather than the cost.
The Fostex T40RP Mk3 is the better-sounding choice. This closed back planar magnetic model measures smoothly in oratory1990’s test, with only 2.57 dB of deviation around the target and sub-bass within 6 dB down to 20 Hz. The tradeoff: Sensitivity of 91 dB/mW is low for an over-ear, so a dedicated headphone amp helps it reach full volume.
The case for the Beyerdynamic MMX150: Bass is lifted about 3.7 dB with extension to 20 Hz, giving kick drums and bass lines extra weight. The tradeoff: A 5.9 dB peak near 6.7 kHz can make cymbals and sibilance sound sharp.
Buy the Fostex T40RP Mk3. It is rated higher for sound quality than the Beyerdynamic MMX150 at the same price, which makes it the one to get unless you need something the other one does better.
Still deciding? The full Headphones rankings cover every ranked option.
This closed back planar magnetic model measures smoothly in oratory1990’s test, with only 2.57 dB of deviation around the target and sub-bass within 6 dB down to 20 Hz.
B&H Photo Video $189.99 eBay
Bass is lifted about 3.7 dB with extension to 20 Hz, giving kick drums and bass lines extra weight.
Amazon $189.99 eBayPrices on this page were last checked October 16, 2026 at 5:46 PM UTC. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date/time and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
As an eBay Partner, we may be compensated if you make a purchase.
Specifications Side By Side
| Fostex T40RP Mk3 | Beyerdynamic MMX150 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $189.99 | $189.99 |
| Ranked | #317 of 481 in Over-Ear Headphones | #365 of 481 in Over-Ear Headphones |
| Form Factor | Over-ear | Over-ear |
| Harman Preference Score | 63 (measured by oratory1990, via AutoEQ) | 57 (measured by oratory1990, via AutoEQ) |
| Deviation From Target | 2.57 dB standard deviation | 3.23 dB standard deviation |
| Tonal Tilt | -1.26 (negative is warmer, positive brighter) | -1.05 (negative is warmer, positive brighter) |
| Sub-bass Extension | Within 6 dB of target down to 20 Hz (-2.4 dB at 30 Hz) | Within 6 dB of target down to 20 Hz (+4.2 dB at 30 Hz) |
| Connection | Wired | Wired |
| Back | Closed | Closed |
| Driver Type | Planar magnetic | Dynamic |
| Impedance | 50 ohms | 32 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 91 dB/mW | - |
| Weight | 0.7 lbs (315 g) | - |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz - 35kHz (Manufacturer specified) | - |
| Built-in Microphone | No | - |
| Drivers | 1 x planar magnetic | 1 x 40mm dynamic |
Related Headphone Comparisons
More worthwhile head-to-heads for Fostex T40RP Mk3: