There are several aspects to consider when shopping for headphones. Aside from price, there are other choices you have to make, depending on your needs and preference.
Some things to consider when in the market for headphones
One of the most important things you should know about headphones is that they divide into three main categories, depending on their back. You’ve got closed-back headphones, open-back headphones and semi-open back headphones. Open-back headphones are usually better in terms of sound quality, but worse in terms of sound leakage. Semi-open ones are somewhere in the middle, bringing the best of both worlds.
Another thing to consider is whether to opt for wired or wireless headphones. Audiophiles will always swear to wired headphones delivering the best sound, but technology has made huge improvements over the years so you’ll be surprised to hear how great certain wireless headphones can sound. Moreover, wired ones are a bit more uncomfortable to wear than wireless headphones, which offer you more freedom. However, wireless phones also need to be charged and they are a bit more expensive.
You should also see which type of headphones fit you best, as there are on-ear and over-the-year headphones out there.
AKG is an Austrian manufacturer renowned for its microphones, headphones and other audio products. This is a company with tradition and experience on the market and has been around since 1947.
The K72 are one of their best-selling models of headphones on a budget. They are extremely affordable and can be purchased for only $50, which is without a doubt a bargain.
Here are the main specifications of the K72:
- Frequency response: 16-20000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 112 dB SPL/V
- Rated impedance: 32 Ohms
- Weight: 7.05 ounces
- 40 mm drivers
The K72 don’t have the most premium design. They are black, over the year and have a closed back, which means they don’t leak sound and isolate you pretty well from outside noises, too. However, that does come at a cost in terms of sound quality, due to the material they’re made of, which is anti-resonant and due to their enclosed design. They tend to miss that live quality and soundstage heard in open-back models. On the other hand, the K72 are great for commuting and for moments when you want to be alone with your music and not be bothered by anything around you.
The K72 have a 3-meter cable, which is long enough to give you all the freedom of movement you need. If anything, the cable is too long, although, the fact that it is single sided lets you move easily.
The Leatherette on the earpads is easy to replace and the headband is soft and self-adjusting. The K72 are light and easy to wear, in spite of their closed-back design. Most closed-back headphones tend to get your ears warm and even sweaty after a while, but that didn’t seem to be the case with the K72.
All in all, the K72 don’t look high-end and too luxurious, but they are not heavy and they are comfortable enough to wear for longer periods of time.
How do they sound?
The K72 come with 40 mm drivers and considering the price, these babies won’t disappoint you in terms of sound quality. They have a wide frequency range and deliver an impressively detailed sound. Mid frequencies are a bit too ‘in your ear’, but overall, everything is easy to distinguish. The clarity of the K72 make them suitable even for more serious audio tasks, such as studio monitoring and mixing.
There’s not much to dislike in the AKG K72, especially given their price, so if you want a good pair of headphones on a budget, you should definitely consider them. If you are looking for a longer and more in depth review of the AKG k72 take a look at our full product review for all the info about these fantastic headphones.