AKG K702 vs K701 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

AKG K702 & AKG K701 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the AKG K702 rather than the AKG K701. 

Table Of Contents hide
1 Why Do I Recommend The AKG K702?
2 Side By Side Comparison
3 What Common Both Can Do?
4 Common Features

Why Do I Recommend The AKG K702? 

  • The AKG K702 features individually matched drivers for consistent left-right channel accuracy to enhance stereo imaging and critical listening precision, compared to the AKG K701’s standard driver matching.
  • AKG K702 includes slightly thicker and softer velour ear pads for improved comfort during extended studio sessions or long listening hours, compared to the AKG K701’s firmer pads.
  • It has a conventional padded headband with a leatherette cushion for a more stable and consistent fit to reduce pressure hot spots during prolonged wear, compared to the self-adjusting leather strap on the AKG K701.
  • The AKG K702 supports tighter and flatter bass response for more accurate low-frequency reproduction, which is beneficial in mixing and mastering scenarios, compared to the slightly warmer bass tuning on the AKG K701.
  • AKG K702 has a detachable mini-XLR cable for easier cable replacement, long-term durability, and compatibility with custom or balanced cables, compared to the AKG K701’s fixed cable design.
  • It comes with a modular cable system that uses standard connectors to allow upgrades or replacements, which improves flexibility and reduces downtime, compared to the non-serviceable cable of the AKG K701.
  • The AKG K702 includes subtle acoustic refinements that create a marginally wider soundstage for a more immersive and spatial audio experience, compared to the AKG K701’s slightly narrower presentation.

Maybe the AKG K701 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the AKG K702. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Check AKG K701 Best Price

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureAKG K702AKG K701
ColorBlack with blue accentsWhite with silver accents
Cable TypeDetachable mini-XLRFixed
Cable ReplacementUser-replaceableNot replaceable
Connector TypeMini-XLR to 3.5mm with 6.3mm adapterHardwired 3.5mm with 6.3mm adapter
Headband StylePadded with leatherette cushionSelf-adjusting leather strap
Headband MechanismManual adjustmentElastic automatic fit
Ear Pad TextureSofter velour paddingFirmer velour padding
Bass ResponseTighter and flatterWarmer and more elevated
SoundstageSlightly widerWide but more mid-centric
Tuning PurposeStudio/reference monitoringAudiophile/reference listening
Usage FocusProfessional/studioHome/audiophile
Driver MatchingIndividually matchedStandard matched
Build SeriesK7 series – updatedOriginal K701 series
Model SuccessorSuccessor to K701Predecessor to K702
Driver HousingBlue plastic housing accentsSilver plastic housing accents
Labeling“K702” on earcups“K701” on earcups
Manufacturing Date RangeLater modelEarlier model
Retail PackagingBox includes detachable cableBox includes fixed cable
PriceCheck AKG K702 PriceCheck AKG K701 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Driver Architecture: Both the AKG K702 and K701 use large 40mm dynamic drivers with AKG’s patented Varimotion diaphragm, which allows differentiated thickness across the membrane for enhanced accuracy and transient response.
  • Open-Back Design: These headphones feature a fully open-back design, allowing air and sound to flow freely. This design enhances the soundstage, giving both models a spacious and natural listening experience ideal for mixing and mastering or immersive music listening.
  • Sound Signature Profile: Both models are tuned for neutrality and precision, with an extended frequency response of 10 Hz to 39,800 Hz and very low total harmonic distortion (<0.1%). They share a clean, analytical signature suited for critical listening.
  • Comfort and Fit: Both have a full-size over-ear (circumaural) design that encloses the ears completely, reducing fatigue during long listening sessions. They are also lightweight (~235g) and come with velour ear pads for breathability and comfort.
  • Studio-Focused Features: Each model uses AKG’s flat-wire voice coil technology to improve impulse response and control. They are passive headphones, designed for use with high-quality headphone amps or studio interfaces.
  • Build and Material Quality: The construction of both models involves premium-grade plastic, a metal grille frame, and soft velour pads, all assembled in Austria, ensuring durability and high manufacturing standards.
  • Accessories and Functionality: Both include a 3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter in the box and have ear pads that are user-replaceable, supporting longevity. While only the K702 has a detachable cable, the core functionality remains consistent.

Check AKG K702 Best Price

Check AKG K701 Best Price

Common Features

FeatureAKG K702AKG K701
Driver TypeDynamicDynamic
Transducer Size40mm40mm
Open-Back DesignYesYes
Over-Ear Circumaural FitYesYes
Impedance62 ohms62 ohms
Frequency Response10 Hz – 39,800 Hz10 Hz – 39,800 Hz
Sensitivity~105 dB SPL/V~105 dB SPL/V
THD (Total Harmonic Distortion)<0.1%<0.1%
Soundstage CapabilityWideWide
Flat Wire Voice CoilYesYes
Varimotion DiaphragmYesYes
Build QualityHigh-grade plastic + metalHigh-grade plastic + metal
Replaceable Ear PadsYesYes
3.5mm Adapter IncludedYesYes
No Active ElectronicsPassive headphonesPassive headphones
Designed for Critical ListeningYesYes
Manufacturing OriginMade in AustriaMade in Austria
Price Check AKG K702 Price Check AKG K701 Price

FAQ

Are the AKG K702 and K701 suitable for casual music listening?
Yes, both the AKG K702 and K701 are suitable for casual listening, but they are primarily designed for critical listening. Their neutral sound signature may lack the exaggerated bass preferred by some casual users, but for those who appreciate detail and clarity, they perform very well.

Do the AKG K702 and K701 require a headphone amplifier?
While they can be driven by high-output portable devices, both headphones benefit greatly from a dedicated headphone amplifier to reach their full dynamic range and maintain clarity, especially in complex audio passages.

Can the ear pads be replaced on both models?
Yes, both the K702 and K701 have removable and replaceable velour ear pads, allowing for hygiene, comfort customization, and extended longevity of the headphones.

What’s the difference in cable design between K702 and K701?
The K702 uses a detachable mini-XLR cable that can be easily replaced, whereas the K701 comes with a fixed, hardwired cable that cannot be detached or replaced without modification.

Are both headphones open-back?
Yes, both the AKG K702 and K701 feature an open-back design, which provides a wide soundstage and airy listening experience but also allows sound leakage and minimal isolation from external noise.

Do they support wireless connectivity or Bluetooth?
No, both the AKG K702 and K701 are purely wired headphones with no wireless or Bluetooth functionality. They are intended for high-fidelity analog listening environments.

Which headphone has better bass performance?
The AKG K702 has slightly tighter and more controlled bass, making it more suitable for studio use. The K701 has a touch more warmth in the low end, which some audiophiles may find pleasing for casual listening.

Are the AKG K702 and K701 good for gaming?
Yes, their wide soundstage and clear imaging make them excellent for positional audio in games, especially for competitive FPS games. However, they do not include a built-in microphone.

Where are these headphones manufactured?
Both the AKG K702 and K701 are manufactured in Austria, known for high production standards and consistent quality control in AKG’s professional line of headphones.

Are the AKG K702 and K701 lightweight and comfortable?
Yes, both models are lightweight at approximately 235 grams and feature plush velour ear pads with large ear cups, making them comfortable for long listening or mixing sessions.

What type of music suits the AKG K702 and K701 best?
They are best suited for classical, jazz, acoustic, instrumental, and any genre that benefits from precise imaging, separation, and a balanced sound signature rather than heavy bass.

Can the AKG K702 or K701 be used for recording vocals?
No, they are not ideal for vocal recording due to their open-back design, which allows sound to leak into microphones. They are more appropriate for mixing and mastering applications.

Do they come with a carrying case?
No, neither the K702 nor K701 typically comes with a hard carrying case. Packaging usually includes the headphones, a 3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter, and the cable (detachable or fixed depending on the model).

Which model is better for studio use?
The AKG K702 is better suited for studio use due to its detachable cable, slightly more analytical tuning, and minor ergonomic refinements aimed at professionals and engineers.

Are there any differences in driver technology between the two?
Both headphones use the same AKG Varimotion diaphragm technology and flat-wire voice coil drivers, so the core sound-producing hardware is identical. The subtle tuning differences come from other design factors like pads and internal damping.

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