The AKG K72 headphones have garnered attention for their affordability in the studio headphones market. With the promise of delivering studio-grade performance at a budget-friendly price, these closed-back headphones aim to cater to both amateur and professional audio enthusiasts. In this review, we’ll delve into the AKG K72’s features, build quality, sound performance, and explore whether they truly live up to their reputation.
Design and Comfort: The AKG K72 exhibits a plastic build that leans towards flexibility rather than sturdiness. Weighing in at 200 grams, the headphones are lightweight and rest comfortably on the wearer’s head. However, the plastic construction might not withstand rough handling, making durability a potential concern. The suspension headband design is a highlight, providing a comfortable fit and distributing the weight evenly.
Comfort and Fit: One of the standout features of the AKG K72 is its light clamping fit, similar to other AKG headphones. The suspension headband contributes to the comfortable fit along the crown and sides of the head. The round ear cups house stiff vinyl-covered padding, which, though comfortable, might not conform well around glasses, affecting both sound quality and isolation. The ear pads’ padding is slightly thicker towards the front, requiring users to be mindful of proper positioning for optimal sound.
Features and Control: The AKG K72 comes with a permanently attached 3-meter cable terminating in a 3.5mm jack. A 1/4 inch adapter is also included. While the cable length is suitable for home use, it might be excessively long for outdoor or on-the-go listening. The headphones have an impedance of 32Ω and are sensitive enough to not require a separate headphone amplifier.
Connectivity Options: The AKG K72 presents a straightforward wired connectivity option, ideal for devices with a 3.5mm jack. The headphones are sensitive and do not require an additional headphone amplifier for optimal performance.
Sound Quality: The AKG K72’s sound quality is a mixed bag. Its frequency response presents an unusual profile that strays from the “neutral” sound expected from studio headphones. Frequencies between 200 and 1000Hz appear excessively loud in comparison to other ranges. Lower frequencies experience a sharp roll-off, and the expected peak at 3kHz is under-emphasized. This frequency response impacts the overall audio experience, particularly in terms of vocals, bass, and instrument separation.
Microphone Performance: It’s important to note that the AKG K72 is designed primarily as a listening device and does not include a microphone. As such, microphone performance is not applicable to these headphones.
Alternatives: While the AKG K72 might serve as an entry-level option for casual listeners, those looking for accurate sound reproduction or superior build quality should consider alternatives like the AKG K371 or Sony MDR-7506 for a more fulfilling audio experience.
Conclusion: The AKG K72 headphones present an affordable option for those seeking studio-grade performance on a budget. However, while they do offer a comfortable fit and lightweight design, their build quality and sound performance leave much to be desired. The unusual frequency response negatively impacts their overall audio quality, making them unsuitable for critical listening or professional use. Those in search of a more comprehensive audio experience should explore alternative options that prioritize accurate sound reproduction and build durability.