In this review, I’ll be taking a look at the AKG K240 Studio semi-open-back headphones. These headphones have been something of a staple in the recording world for the past 20 years, but let’s see if they hold to today’s standards in the face of their new competition.
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Final verdict on the K240 Studio
All in all, the K240 Studio is an incredible pair of headphones for $80. Their sound signature is fairly neutral, they’re comfortable, and they’ve ultimately stood the test of time.
While they may not be the best studio headphones ever, who can complain over a headphone this good and this cheap.
What I like
- Fairly neutral sound signature.
- Comfortable.
- Affordable.
What I don’t like
- Exaggerated low end.
- Fatiguing high end.
Power and frequency response
The AKG K240 have a frequency response of 15 Hz – 25 kHz as well as an impedance of 55 ohms – all fairly standard.
As far as their performance is concerned, I have to say that the K240 Studio are not the most accurate headphones. Although the headphones are rather neutral, the bass is a bit exaggerated, and the high end is a bit untamed.
The only area that is nominally flat lies between 1-2 kHz. That being said, the midrange is exceptionally smooth. I found the high end to be neither shrill nor sharp, but still a bit fatiguing at higher volumes.
The mid-bass build up adds warmth and body to genres like rock, jazz, and blues. However, if you’re interested in more bass-centric genres such as EDM and hip-hop, the bass build-up will become muddy and unsatisfying.
Still, despite the minor inconsistencies of their sound reproduction, they perform incredibly well – arguably better than several other studio headphones in their price range.
Build quality
These are incredibly durable considering the price. The AKG K240 Studio can take a bit of a beating, and last you years. The only part of their design with a short-life is the ear pads. This isn’t an incredible problem though, as you can find replacements fairly easily.
Comfortability
These headphones are remarkably comfortable due to their light weight and the soft foam padding on the ear cups. I found that the flexible headband favors larger heads, but not by much.
Stability
These weren’t designed for sport, and will fall off your head while running or working out. The detachable cable will also come undone if snagged on any gear or equipment in your studio.
Noise cancellation and isolation
Due to their semi-open design, these don’t make a great option for wearing on your commute or in the presence of others. Not only will everybody be able to hear what you’re listening to, but you’ll be able to hear everything they’re saying.
Accessories
The AKG K240 Studio headphones come packaged only with the headphones, an audio cable, and a 1/4 to 1/8-inch adapter. For those of you who were expecting a carrying pouch or portable case, go buy one separately.
Compared to other studio headphones
These AKG cans are, without a doubt, some of the best cheap studio headphones you can buy. But here are a few alternatives to consider before settling on the K240 Studio.
AKG K240 Studio vs K240 Mk2
While these headphones are virtually identical, the K240 Mk2 offer an updated design which is more comfortable and durable. However, the frequency response has been left unchanged.
If you’re willing to spend twice as much on a slightly more comfortable pair of headphones, the Mk2s are just that.
AKG K240 Studio vs Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
For the price, the AKG K240s have a far better performance and are much more comfortable. However, if you need a cheap pair of headphones with decent passive noise cancellation, the ATH-M40x are your best bet.
Read the full Audio-Technica ATH-M40x review
AKG K240 Studio vs Samson SR850
The K240 Studio headphones are better by comparison, as they’re far more neutral. While the AKGs are almost $40 more expensive, I still consider them worth the extra expense.
Read the full Samson SR850 review
Who are the AKG K240 Studio headphones best suited for?
The AKG K240 Studios are best suited for any engineer looking for budget-friendly studio headphones, although they aren’t ideal for tracking due to their semi-open back design.
They also fare well for casual listening purposes, as long as you’re in a quiet environment. Again, the semi-open back design doesn’t lend itself for casual listening through your commute, or in the office due to outside bleed.
Buy AKG K240 Studio at: SweetwaterAmazon
