I always have a need for good headphones, and I am fortunate enough to own several different types from various manufacturers. Like reference monitors, they each have a different sonic profile, and provide a unique perspective on program material. I have some high-end models from Audeze that I use for mixing purposes, and some less expensive models that I use for tracking and checking mixes on. It's wonderful to have access to upscale audio playback devices, but the reality is most listeners are using wired or Bluetooth earbuds (some may even have “pro” models) to listen to their favorite music. To that point, I like having a couple of options for listening to mixes that fall into the more baseline consumer/prosumer category.
AKG has been making quality headphones forever, and you've probably all seen their K240 semi-open-back headphones in studios. Well, AKG still makes those classics, and have recently released the K371 and K371-BT closed-back, over-ear headphones. I was sent a pair of the BT (Bluetooth 5.0) models, and out of the box, my impression was that they were lightweight (but not overly so), easy to adjust for fit, and comfortable. The pads are in the medium size range, substantially firm but still quite comfortable, sealed well, and they cover the entire ear. The ear cups can rotate 180 degrees for storage and compact travel.
The K371-BT supports both the SBC and AAC Bluetooth codecs. Three Mini XLR cables (two straight cables, and one coiled) are included for hardwired / non-Bluetooth use. A carrying pouch is also provided. A quick look at the specs shows that these headphones have a claimed frequency response of 5 Hz to 40 kHz, which I will note is far beyond the reach of my hearing! A built-in mic allows for two-way Bluetooth communications; you can use gesture controls located on the earcups to answer calls, adjust volume, and play and pause music. The units charge via an included micro-USB cable.
The sound quality for a headphone in this price range is impressively neutral/natural, and although there is a robust bass and an extended high-frequency response they do not sound over-hyped – I didn't experience the typical ear fatigue from long listening sessions on closed-back headphones. For review purposes, I did a bunch of recreational listening to some of my favorite albums, and some songs that I recorded or mixed. In general terms, the K371-BTs provided a pleasant listening experience. They are extremely comfortable, and I didn't mind wearing them for a few hours continuously, plus the 40-hour battery life will let you do so on the go. The EQ remained balanced from low to higher listening levels, and I appreciated the smoothness of the high end when cranked up.
At the studio, I check mixes on a pair of Audeze LCD-X [Tape Op #119] headphones as well as a pair of Audio-Technica ATH-M50s [#63]. I like them both for the same reason that I also to audition mixes on old standard Apple AirPods and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II. They each provide a different perspective and alternate information to make adjustments. The K371-BTs were a fine addition to my collection. I will use these for checking mixes, tracking applications, and pleasure listening. They are also affordable, so I would feel comfortable tossing them in a backpack (in their carrying pouch!) for a trip. They will most certainly go on my list of headphones that I will recommend to friends and family interested in a good listening experience that won't break the bank.
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