AKG K701

Design

One of the major differences in design between the ATH-M50s and the AKG K701s is the closed back sported by the Audio Technicas. While this isn’t the most dramatic change in headphone design, there are some tradeoffs that come with it, namely the increased durability, the possibility of tiny echoes, and the ability to leave the computer. The AKG K701s do look pretty sweet, though.

AKG K701	Audio-Technica ATH-M50

Frequency Response

The AKG K701s take this one hands-down if you’re an audiophile, but for the average consumer, the ATH-M50s actually do fairly well here by boosting bass frequencies a bit, and almost keeping its response within our ideal limits. It does have that bizarre underemphasis in the 4-8kHz range though, meaning cymbals are strangely muffled a bit.

AKG K701	Audio-Technica ATH-M50

Distortion

Perhaps the one area that the ATH-M50s excel in is the near complete lack of distortion. They take this one.

AKG K701	Audio-Technica ATH-M50

Tracking

Neither cans were perfect here, but the ATH-M50s were less erratic, even if they technically didn’t score as well as the AKG K701s.

AKG K701	Audio-Technica ATH-M50

Isolation

Because the AKG K701s weren’t made to attenuate noise, it’s no surprise that they don’t manage to keep as much sound from the outside world out all that well. That being said, do not wear either of these cans thinking they will attenuate much noise at all. Both are bad at it.

AKG K701	Audio-Technica ATH-M50

Comfort

Before you decide on a pair of headphones you like, we always urge you to try them on before you buy if you have the opportunity. Because both of these cans are very comfortable, you’ll have to decide what’s best for you. As a side note for those of you with larger heads, the AKG K701s fared much better in the eyes of co-workers here at the office that had medium to large craniums.

Wear
AKG K701	Audio-Technica ATH-M50

Verdict

The AKG K701s are better for the computer or studio-bound audiophile, while the ATH-M50s are great for entry-level customers looking for a step above what they may be used to with Beats or other popular headphones. Still, because situations change and accidents happen, we encourage users who have not had time with studio-styled headphones to check out closed-back headphones first, especially if they want to take their cans on the go.