The AKG K275 is an extremely stylish choice of listening device, with high-quality materials and flawless technical specs. The frequency response range spans the entire listening spectrum and is, on a technical level, uncompromising. As much as AKG have done right here, I do miss the typical high-resolution output usually found with models from the manufacturer. That fine adjustment of sound is lacking, while there’s perhaps too much punch and presence in the midrange.
The K275 is the premium model in AKG’s new studio headphone series (K175, K245, K275). It is a closed headphone model with unusually large 50mm drivers, making them an ideal choice for all monitoring tasks, both in the studio and in live situations. With a low impedance of 42 Ohm, it can even serve mobile devices brilliantly. Furthermore, flexibility is assured thanks to a handy folding design.
In addition to the folding design, mobility is further supported thanks to a detachable connection cable (mini jack to mini DIN) so that the headset disappears completely into the supplied bag whenever required. Everything here looks pretty impressive when it comes to technical spec. The frequency response range provided by the two drivers ranges from 16 Hz to 28 kHz, far exceeding human hearing limits. Input sensitivity stands at 109 dB.
Exterior
Immediately after unpacking this device, it’s easy to appreciate the aesthetics. The K275, much like its smaller siblings K175 (review) and 245, make an instant impression with their visual design choices. The elegant design demonstrates a deft interplay of material, form and functionality. In keeping with tradition, AKG’s fixed-length headband is the first showcase of this design philosophy. Adaptation to individual head size is not achieved by notched adjustments, but rather a slick gliding mechanism that is secured into place atop metal components. It’s a nice detail indeed. Another standout feature is the folding joints that engage with one another magnetically and mechanically. What’s more, the vertical axis of rotation of 180 degrees is not located on the folding joint, but directly on the rear of the listening pads. This is made from a robust metal, like much of the overall headset, giving you a feeling of durability and quality.
Wearing Comfort
In view of the closed design, with such systems often a more uncomfortable fit than open ones, I’d like to single out the positive experience I had whilst wearing these AKG headphones. The headband sits comfortably over the head, while the earpieces bind firmly next to the ear, shielding your auditory canal from outside noise. In contrast to smaller models in the series, the ear pads distribute contact pressure more evenly, rather than focused in one place.
Sound
The sound spec on offer here deliver on almost every front. When it comes to frequency, everything the ear desires can be enjoyed here, with the bass range revealing perhaps the most confident capabilities of the AKG K275. This is a new development, with the high frequencies previously being the main area of focus for AKG’s developers. However, since the X67 series and up until the most recent model to hit shelves, things have changed and AKG are boasting significantly more bass. As with the K175, the 275 delivers in some areas at the expense of the trebles. This is more noticeable when you compare listening to something with pronounced treble definition such as the Beyerdynamic DT-1990 Pro or Phonon SMB-02. This all demonstrates that AKG is quite relaxed in its approach. If you’re after a milder sound, this is worth looking into. However, if you’re seeking a sharper, more defined and transient rich sound, the AKG might also deliver in the areas you’re focused on.
Technical specifications
- Ear couplingOver-ear
- Typeclosed
- Transducer principledynamic
- Frequency response (headphones)16 - 28.000 Hz
- Impedance42,25 ohms
- Sound pressure level (SPL)100,31 dB
- Pressure averaged from big and small head678,5 g
- Weight with cable354 g
- Weight without cable290 g
- Cable length115 cm
What's in the box
- 6.35 stereo jack
- Carrying pouch