AKG K712 Pro Review

The AKG K712 Pro has been around for more than two years, and in that time it has solidified its position within the headphone world as a competitive headphone with a competitive price.  But at $399, how does this open back headphone compare to similar models from other manufacturers?

AKG K712 Pro Review

The K712 Pro sports a striking appearance of orange and black.  Inside the no-frills box, you’ll find these headphones, along with a 10 ft (3 m) removable headphone cable that terminates in a 3.5 mm plug.  A screw-on 1/4” stereo adapter plug is included.

Utilizing a suspension-type headband, with thick leather padding and velour earcups, these headphones are as comfortable as they are durable.  And despite the lack of confidence inspired by the mostly-plastic design, this is saying something.

Specs

Headphone type: open
Max. Input Power: 200 mW
Audio frequency bandwidth: 10 to 39800 Hz
Sensitivity:105 dB SPL/V
Rated Impedance: 62 Ohms
Detachable cable: yes
Cable Length: 3 m
Earpads Replaceable: yes
Interface Type: Stereo plug – 3.5mm (1/8-inch) with 6.3 mm (1/4”) screw-on adapter
Gender: Male
Contacts: 3-pin
Finish: Gold

As these specifications indicate, the K712 offers a surprisingly wide frequency range, decent sensitivity, and a relatively high impedance of 62 ohms.  While paired with a portable device, I found the impedance to be a definite obstacle in regard to attaining a decent level of volume, however pairing these headphones with a cheap amp will easily remedy the problem.

Low End

The low end on the K712 Pro is deep and full, overflowing with excellent detail.  The bass sounds natural, with plenty of “oomph” that delivers good impact while remaining clean.  You won’t find any bleed in this low end, no sir.

Mids

When it comes to the midrange, there is an astounding level of fidelity, with only the slightest (slightest, really) amount of distortion when it comes to male vocals.  Or maybe I’m just imagining it; maybe the midrange just sounds a little too pristine and my mind thinks there has to be something off in there, somewhere.

High End

Somewhat bright, but still oozing clarity, the high end is detailed and exacting, with strings and female vocals sounding downright heavenly.  Not quite as bright as a similarly-priced Grado, but not quite as lean as the high end on the Sennheiser HD600.

Soundstage

Hot damn.  The soundstage on the K712 is vast and immersive, with a real sense of depth and placement.  Helped along, no doubt, but a good deal of clarity and separation from the driver, the resultant sound is bewitchingly lifelike.

Overall Impressions

The AKG K712 Pro looks good and sounds good.  It feels good.  So I think its pretty safe to say this is a good headphone.  Compared to other headphones at the same price point, these headphones definitely offer as much (if not more) bang for your buck.  However, whether these headphones are optimal for you can depend a great deal on what kind of sound you prefer.

Recommendations

Are you a bass head?  If so, the K712 may not be the best option for you.  The AKG K701 or the Sennheiser HD650, for $349 or $499 respectively, may offer a bassier sound.  However, when it comes to detail, and a near-neutral sound, the 712 easily edges out most other headphones in this price range – including the Grado RS2e and the Shure SRH1840.  And at the risk of drawing ire from Sennheiser fanboys, I’d say it sounds more neutral than even the HD600.  (Go ahead and tear me apart, interwebs.)

Personally, I’d recommend this headphone to anyone looking for tons of detail in a neutral profile – a perfect sound for classical music, or for more serious monitoring requirements.