Overview

The AKG K271 MKII Professional Studio Headphones are engineered for precise sound isolation and comfort during long studio sessions. These over-ear headphones feature a closed-back design that minimizes external noise, making them ideal for professional environments. The self-adjusting headband ensures a secure and comfortable fit, even during extended use. A standout feature is the auto-mute function, which activates when the headphones are removed, preventing unwanted sound leakage. Whether you’re recording or mixing, these headphones provide clear and detailed audio without disturbing the surrounding workspace.

Features & Benefits

These studio headphones offer a range of features designed to improve your listening and recording experience. The advanced noise isolation blocks out distractions, allowing for focused sessions. With a wide frequency range of 16 Hz to 28,000 Hz, they provide accurate sound reproduction across all frequencies, making them perfect for mixing and mastering. The detachable cable reduces wear and tear, making replacements easy. At just 8.5 oz, they are surprisingly lightweight, ensuring comfort during long recording sessions without causing fatigue.

Best For

The K271 MKII headphones are best suited for professional audio engineers and studio producers who require precise, clear sound for monitoring. They’re also ideal for musicians recording vocals or instruments, where accurate sound reproduction and isolation are key. Content creators and podcasters will appreciate the high-quality sound isolation, which ensures that background noise doesn’t interfere with the recording. Anyone needing critical listening for mixing or editing will find these headphones a reliable choice for superior audio performance.

User Feedback

Users frequently highlight the K271 MKII for its exceptional sound quality and comfort during long listening sessions. Many appreciate its durable construction, making it a dependable tool in the studio. The auto-mute feature has received positive feedback for its convenience in preventing sound leakage when the headphones are removed. However, some users note that while the bass is tight and controlled, it may feel a bit lacking for those who prefer a more booming low-end in casual listening scenarios.

Pros

  • The over-ear, closed-back design provides excellent sound isolation, making it ideal for studio environments.
  • The self-adjusting headband ensures a comfortable fit during long recording or mixing sessions.
  • The detachable cable adds convenience, allowing for easy replacement and reducing wear over time.
  • With a wide frequency response range (16 Hz to 28,000 Hz), these headphones deliver clear, precise audio for critical listening.
  • Many users find the lightweight design (8.5 oz) to be comfortable for extended use without causing fatigue.
  • The auto-mute feature is a convenient addition, automatically pausing audio when the headphones are removed.

Cons

  • Some users find the bass response to be a bit tight, which may not be ideal for casual listening or bass-heavy genres.
  • These headphones are more suited for studio use, so they may feel too isolating or impractical for casual or outdoor listening.
  • The high level of sound isolation may feel too restrictive for people who prefer a more open sound environment.
  • While durable, the headphones are not as portable as other models due to their design and weight, making them less ideal for travel.
  • A few users have reported that the build quality, although solid, is not as premium as other high-end studio headphones.
  • Not all users appreciate the tight fit, which may cause discomfort for people with larger heads or different head shapes.

Ratings

The AKG K271 MKII Professional Studio Headphones have garnered diverse feedback from verified users worldwide, analyzed across various platforms and languages. After filtering out spam, bot-generated, and incentivized reviews, the aggregated ratings reflect a balanced view, highlighting both strengths and some drawbacks of this product. Users consistently praise the sound quality and comfort, while some note concerns around bass response for non-professional use. The reviews span multiple countries and languages, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of this headphone’s performance in real-world conditions.

Sound Quality
94%
Many users praise the crisp, clear sound of these headphones, particularly the detailed highs and balanced mids. The wide frequency range ensures an accurate representation of audio, making them ideal for studio environments where precision is key.
A few users have reported that the bass may not be as prominent as expected, which could be a downside for those who prefer a heavier low-end response. This headphone’s sound profile is more neutral, catering primarily to professional use.
Comfort for Extended Wear
92%
The self-adjusting headband provides a snug but comfortable fit, making these headphones suitable for long studio sessions. Several users also highlight the lightweight design, which reduces pressure on the head and ears during extended wear.
While the comfort level is generally praised, some users mentioned that the clamping force may feel a bit tight, particularly for those with larger heads. However, this is often a minor issue that lessens over time with use.
Noise Isolation
90%
The closed-back design and advanced noise isolation are highly appreciated by users working in noisy environments. This feature helps block out unwanted sounds, ensuring an immersive listening experience and clear monitoring during recording.
A small number of users noted that, while noise isolation is effective, it can feel a bit too isolating for casual use, especially when wearing them for non-professional tasks like watching movies or listening to music at home.
Build Quality
88%
The durable construction of these headphones is frequently praised, with many users noting that they feel sturdy and able to withstand the rigors of professional use. The solid build ensures reliability in demanding studio settings.
A few reviews pointed out that, despite the strong build, the overall design could be more premium, especially the plastic parts. Some users expected a slightly higher-end finish for the price.
Auto-Mute Feature
85%
Many users found the auto-mute feature incredibly convenient, particularly during breaks or when removing the headphones. This feature automatically pauses audio when the headphones are taken off, helping to avoid distractions.
While useful for many, some users felt that the auto-mute function could be more consistent. Occasionally, the feature would fail to activate or deactivate properly, leading to some frustration in certain scenarios.
Bass Response
72%
28%
For those who prioritize accuracy over heavy bass, these headphones perform well in providing a balanced audio experience. The controlled bass response is ideal for critical listening and mixing tasks.
Several users expressed disappointment with the bass response, describing it as too tight and not as deep as expected. For casual listeners or those seeking a more bass-heavy experience, this could be a drawback.
Weight and Portability
87%
The lightweight design, weighing only 8.5 oz, is frequently highlighted as a major plus for users who need portability without sacrificing comfort. This makes them easy to transport for studio sessions or travel.
While the light weight is generally appreciated, a few users felt that the lack of a folding mechanism or compact design made the headphones less portable than other models in the same category.
Durability for Professional Use
91%
Many professionals appreciate the build quality and ruggedness of these headphones, which can endure the frequent use and occasional rough handling typical in studio environments. The long-lasting construction is a strong point for durability.
Though durable, some users mentioned that the headphones may show signs of wear over time, especially on the headband or earpads. Regular maintenance or replacements might be required after extended use.
Cable Durability (Detachable)
86%
The detachable cable is a standout feature, offering convenience and longevity. Users appreciate how it can be replaced if needed, reducing the overall wear and tear, especially in high-use situations.
While the detachable cable is a good feature, a few users expressed concerns about the connection feeling slightly flimsy at times. Some wished for a more robust connection to prevent accidental disconnections.
Value for Money
89%
Most users agree that these headphones offer excellent value for the price, considering the professional-grade features and sound quality. The balance of performance, comfort, and durability makes them a great investment for studio work.
However, some buyers felt that the headphones might be slightly overpriced compared to other similar models. While they deliver great performance, the premium price tag could be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers.
Ease of Use
80%
20%
The intuitive design of these headphones makes them easy to use for both novice and experienced audio professionals. Most users found the controls and setup simple, with minimal learning curve required.
A small group of users reported that the fit and adjustment process could be a bit finicky, especially for first-time users. Some wished for more customizable features to enhance the overall user experience.
Compatibility with Studio Equipment
92%
These headphones are highly compatible with various professional studio setups, working well with mixers, audio interfaces, and recording equipment. This makes them a reliable choice for musicians and audio engineers alike.
Some users found that, depending on their equipment, the headphones didn't always deliver optimal sound without adjusting settings. For users with specific audio gear, fine-tuning may be required for the best experience.
Sound Clarity at High Volumes
89%
Users regularly mention the excellent sound clarity even at high volumes, making these headphones a solid choice for those who need to monitor audio accurately in noisy or loud environments.
However, a few users noted that while the clarity remains intact, the headphones can feel somewhat uncomfortable at high volumes. The pressure from the ear cups could become a slight issue during extended sessions at high sound levels.

Suitable for:

The AKG K271 MKII Professional Studio Headphones are ideal for professionals in need of high-quality, precise audio monitoring. This includes audio engineers, musicians recording in controlled studio environments, and content creators such as podcasters who require clear, accurate sound reproduction. Their over-ear, closed-back design and superior noise isolation make them particularly suited for users who need to focus on fine details without distraction. Additionally, the lightweight, self-adjusting headband ensures comfort during long recording or mixing sessions, making them a great choice for those who spend extended hours in the studio.

Not suitable for:

However, these headphones may not be the best choice for casual listeners or those seeking a bass-heavy experience. While the sound quality is highly praised for professional use, some users felt that the bass response is too tight for non-critical listening, making them less suitable for music lovers who enjoy genres with deep bass. Additionally, their high level of noise isolation could feel too isolating in casual settings, such as at home or on the go. Anyone looking for a more portable, versatile headphone that excels in both professional and leisure use may find these headphones too specialized for their needs.

Specifications

  • Design: Over-ear, closed-back design that ensures sound isolation and reduces external noise interference.
  • Headband: Self-adjusting headband provides a comfortable fit for extended wear during long studio sessions.
  • Auto-mute: Includes an auto-mute feature that pauses audio playback when the headphones are removed from the head.
  • Sound Isolation: High sound isolation for minimizing signal bleed and preventing outside noise from disrupting recordings.
  • Frequency Response: Wide frequency response range from 16 Hz to 28,000 Hz, ensuring accurate reproduction of both low and high frequencies.
  • Cable: Detachable cable allows for easy replacement and reduces wear over time.
  • Weight: Weighs 8.5 oz, offering a lightweight design for comfortable extended use without causing fatigue.
  • Application: Ideal for professional audio work, including studio monitoring, recording, and mixing.
  • Build Quality: Durably constructed for reliable performance in demanding studio environments.
  • Comfort: Engineered for comfort, especially during extended use, with a self-adjusting headband and lightweight design.
  • Impedance: Impedance of 55 ohms, suitable for a variety of audio devices, ensuring optimal performance in professional settings.
  • Sensitivity: Sensitivity rating of 91 dB provides clear and precise audio reproduction without distortion.
  • Driver Type: Features a dynamic driver design for accurate sound reproduction across a wide frequency range.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of audio devices, including mixers, audio interfaces, and portable music players.
  • Ear Pads: Equipped with comfortable, plush ear pads that enhance isolation while maintaining long-wearing comfort.
  • Cable Length: Comes with a 3-meter (9.8 ft) detachable cable for ample reach during studio use.
  • Sound Quality: Designed to deliver accurate and detailed sound, with a focus on clear audio across the full frequency spectrum.
  • Durability: Built to withstand regular studio use, with reinforced materials ensuring long-lasting performance.
  • Use Case: Best suited for professional audio engineers, studio producers, and musicians requiring precise sound monitoring.

FAQ

The AKG K271 MKII headphones feature an over-ear, closed-back design that provides excellent sound isolation, minimizing external noise and preventing sound leakage. This makes them ideal for precise audio monitoring in professional studios, where clear and undisturbed listening is essential.

While the AKG K271 MKII headphones offer high-quality audio, they are primarily designed for professional studio environments. The tight bass response and strong noise isolation might not suit casual listeners who prefer a more open sound or lighter headphones for relaxed listening.

These over-ear headphones are designed with a self-adjusting headband that ensures a secure and comfortable fit during extended use. Many users have praised their ability to stay comfortable for hours, making them ideal for long studio sessions or mixing tasks.

The auto-mute feature automatically pauses the audio when the headphones are removed from your head. This is particularly useful for users who frequently need to take breaks or interact with others without having to manually pause or adjust their playback.

The detachable cable offers practical benefits, such as easy replacement if the cable wears out or gets damaged. It also reduces the wear and tear on the cable, ensuring the headphones remain in good condition over time, especially during frequent use.

The AKG K271 MKII headphones have a wide frequency response range of 16 Hz to 28,000 Hz, which ensures accurate reproduction of both low and high frequencies. This is crucial for critical listening in professional settings, where precise sound detail is required for mixing or mastering.

Yes, the AKG K271 MKII headphones are compatible with a wide range of audio devices, including studio equipment, audio interfaces, computers, and portable music players. The detachable cable allows for easy connection to different devices with various input types.

While the AKG K271 MKII is built with durability in mind, its over-ear design and solid construction make it less portable than some other headphones. For frequent touring or travel, you may prefer a more compact or foldable design that offers more convenience.

Yes, the detachable cable can be easily replaced if it gets damaged. This feature is a great advantage for maintaining the longevity of your headphones and avoiding the need to replace the entire set due to cable issues.

The high level of sound isolation in the AKG K271 MKII is excellent for preventing external noise, but it can feel somewhat restrictive to those who prefer a more open and ambient listening experience. This makes them more suitable for controlled studio environments rather than casual or outdoor listening.