BenteUno Labs™: AKG K551 Closed-Back Reference-Class Headphones Review

Feeling like stepping up from being an audio junkie to the next-gen audiophile, then give this pair a  try... AKG 551 Closed-Back Reference-Class Headphones

Headphones are known usual big-sized cups that covers the ears and long cable that's usually 1 meter and a half. An often misconception of others as a music rebel. But times passed and manufacturers added style and really changed how it looked. Some also included different colors per model. Some have removable or personalized earcups.

AKG K551, listen in style







Overall, headphones are known for music afficionados who want to get away from the outside world.  But hey, times changed its getting more love these days.

In this review, we'll not just tackle a regular headphone unit. This is a Closed-Back Reference Class Headset, The AKG K551 Reference class headphones by Harman.

At a Glance:

All Premium. This is what our initial reaction when we took it out of the box. The hard box itself look sturdy enough to hold and display the headphones when not in use. Though it’s only available in two colorways: White/silver with blue cable and black/silver with silver cable, it's already enough, as the K551 boasts on its high-end quality-sound engineering. We got the chance to review White/Silver variant, and we like it better than the other. The white finish is more appealing to the eyes, not that we don't like black. It's fresh inside out. Having these as an extension of the new releases of iPhone/iPad models, instead of using the regular earpods will definitely turn heads.

AKG K551 out of the box

Pack and Specs:

Unboxing the AKG K551 is like opening a big box of gift. AKG didn't include any pouch w/ the package as its 2D axis design is to let it lie flat when not in use. Just make sure that it won't touch a rough surfaces.

Here's the specs sheet for audio geeks:
  • System: Dynamic
  • Design: Closed-back
  • Color: White/silver with blue cable or black/silver with silver cable
  • Frequency range: 12Hz – 28kHz
  • Sensitivity: 114dB SPL/V
  • Input impedance: 32 ohms
  • Maximum input power: 200mW
  • Net weight (without cable): 10.76 oz (305g)
  • Cable: 99.99% oxygen-free cable, 4' (1.2m)
  • Main connection: 1/8" (3.5mm) stereo mini-jack plug

Key Features:

  • Packs a 50mm driver
  • Real Image Engineering
  • 2D Axis Fold Flat Mechanism
  • In-line mic and remote control for iOS  devices
  • 3.5mm jack, a standard for music devices
  • passive noise reduction
  • 12 levels of adjustment for the headband(left and right ear)



AKG K551 Glamshot

Pros:

  • Comfortable to wear despite its size
  • unadulterated sound
  • perfect for audiophiles with big heads
  • rotatable ear foams
  • adjustable headband

Cons:

  • too big to carry
  • cable seems to curl in time
  • non-foldable design
  • no pouch included


Looks

Just by the design of it, you'll get the feeling that it’s something that you can be proud of to wear anytime day or night. Hey it’s AKG! If you're going to a war this should be part of your battle gear. Both colorways are pleasing to the eyes. So it's up to you which colorway you'd go down for. The brushed steel finish on the headband and on the the inner ring of the outer portion of the earcups brings elegance.

AKG K551 Review | Benteuno.com
Brushed steel finish on the headband

The Examination

Size does matter. It really does. With the AKG K551, it does deliver outstanding output that really gives you music to the ears, thanks to the 50mm driver. Rich, full, non-generic sound experience that's beyond par and will delight its users. 

The sound it produces is loud enough and won't require a booster. So investing on this headset won't be an issue as it will not require you to purchase extra sound enhancers to let you reach music nirvana.

The ear cups covers the whole ear reducing the background noise from the outside world. It doesn't fully cuts off outside noise which makes this headphone safe even if you're walking on a busy street.

Having an oxygen-free cable give you a feeling of security, as you can expect that the quality of the cable and the wires inside won't get damaged easily even if it undergoes bents and folds every time you store it.

As we mentioned earlier, there are 12 levels of adjustment. Though it doesn't lock firmly, but it doesn't feel loose, keeping the adjustment of your choice stay in place. Once you adjusted for a perfect fit, you won't be doing it again. The slide mechanism will only loosen if you're the type of person who likes to share it with friends who have different head structure.

AKG K551 side view

BenteUno Labs™ Conclusion

Reviewing the AKG 551 headphones is delightful experience, as it give you the full surround sound of your favorite album or track. Every tune counts and that's one of the sweet spots of the K551. Whether you're an audiophile or not, choosing the AKG K551 won't disappoint provided that it's Harman/AKG -made, who's experience are unparalleled.

The premium packaging, aesthetics and the unbeatable sound will cost you thrice or more than your regular headphones, you're getting the true value of its price point. No matter what genre you're into, these reference-class headphones can deliver. If you're into the overall sound experience and quality of your headphones then price doesn't matter.

This AKG K551 Closed-Back Reference-Class headset is priced at P16,490 and available on the ff JBL stores:

You can also get them from leading gadget stores nationwide. By default per purchase comes with a 1-year warranty.

3 comments:

  1. This looks like this is a great product. Is it heavy? how much does this cost?

    ReplyDelete
  2. I have not tested the BenteUno Labs, the size is a little bit big for my head

    ReplyDelete
  3. Simple and beautiful headset design, metal color looks great on headsets.

    ReplyDelete

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