AKG K712 Pro & AKG K702 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 K712 Pro rather than the AKG K702

Why Do I Recommend The AKG K712 Pro

  • The AKG K712 Pro has a slightly elevated low-end frequency response for richer bass depth, fuller musicality, and improved immersion during casual listening and mastering, compared to the AKG K702’s flat bass profile.
  • AKG K712 Pro features memory foam velour ear pads for enhanced long-session comfort, better ear contouring, and reduced fatigue during extended studio or home listening, compared to the AKG K702’s standard foam pads.
  • It includes hand-matched drivers for superior left-right channel balance and a more precise stereo image, compared to the AKG K702’s standard driver matching.
  • The AKG K712 Pro supports a wider perceived soundstage for better instrument separation and a more three-dimensional listening experience to enhance orchestral and cinematic content compared to the narrower imaging of the AKG K702.
  • AKG K712 Pro comes with both a straight cable and a coiled cable to provide flexible connectivity options for studio monitoring, live sessions, or desktop use, while the AKG K702 includes only a straight cable.
  • It includes a soft carrying pouch for easier storage and transport protection to maintain the headphones’ condition when on the go, while the AKG K702 lacks included storage accessories.
  • The AKG K712 Pro features firmer headband tension with improved suspension for a more secure and stable fit to reduce unwanted movement during use, compared to the looser fit of the AKG K702.
  • AKG K712 Pro has smoother treble tuning to reduce potential ear fatigue and deliver a more natural and enjoyable high-frequency experience, especially for long critical listening, compared to the brighter treble response of the AKG K702.

Maybe the AKG K702 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the AKG K712 Pro. 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.

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureAKG K712 ProAKG K702
Bass ResponseSlightly elevated low-endFlat, neutral bass
Sound SignatureWarmer, smoother, slightly V-shapedNeutral, bright, reference-oriented
Ear Pad MaterialMemory foam velour padsStandard foam velour pads
Headband SupportFirmer elastic bandSofter elastic band
Clamping ForceSlightly tighter clampSlightly looser clamp
Included CablesTwo cables: straight (3m) + coiled (spiral)One straight cable (3m)
Carrying PouchIncludedNot included
Driver MatchingHand-matched driversStandard production match
Frequency TuningSlight bass lift and smoother highsMore analytical and linear across spectrum
Channel MatchingTighter channel toleranceLess strict tolerance
Manufacturing CountrySlovakiaAustria
Model Labeling“K712 PRO” on headband band and cups“K702” on headband and cups
Packaging BoxPremium box with accessoriesStandard box
Target AudienceMixing, mastering, hi-fi enthusiastsCritical studio monitoring
Soundstage WidthSlightly wider perceptionSlightly narrower
Timbre CharacterMore natural and musicalMore clinical and revealing
High-Frequency HandlingSlightly smootherSharper treble edge
PriceCheck AKG K702 Pro PriceCheck AKG K702 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Dynamic Drivers & Varimotion Diaphragm: Both the K712 Pro and K702 use 40mm dynamic drivers featuring AKG’s Varimotion diaphragm technology, which helps achieve precise and consistent acoustic performance with a wide frequency response.
  • Open-Back Circumaural Design: Each headphone uses an open-back design to allow air and sound to move freely through the ear cups. This contributes to a spacious, natural soundstage, which is ideal for critical listening and mixing.
  • Impedance & Sensitivity: Both models have a 62-ohm impedance and 105 dB SPL/V sensitivity, meaning they can be driven by headphone amps or high-quality audio interfaces without demanding excessive power.
  • Frequency Response: With a frequency range of 10 Hz to 39.8 kHz, both headphones are capable of reproducing sub-bass and high-frequency content well beyond the human hearing range, allowing for precise audio detail retrieval.
  • Detachable Mini XLR Cable: They share the same detachable mini-XLR connector, making it easy to swap cables or replace them, enhancing their longevity and modular usability.
  • Self-Adjusting Leather Headband: The headband design is identical on both: a self-adjusting genuine leather strap suspended by elastic bands. This makes wearing them for long sessions comfortable and pressure-free.
  • Elliptical Over-Ear Cups: Both models feature large elliptical ear cups that comfortably cover the entire ear, ensuring better isolation (despite the open-back design) and fatigue-free listening.
  • Wide Soundstage: Thanks to their design and driver structure, both headphones are renowned for their immersive and wide soundstage, a critical feature for mixing, mastering, and audio production.
  • Studio-Friendly: Each headphone is widely used in studio settings. While they have slight tuning differences, both are considered reliable tools for professional audio work.
  • Wired-Only Operation: These are professional-grade, wired headphones without any wireless connectivity, keeping latency low and audio quality high.
  • Build Quality: While aesthetics differ, both use durable plastics for the shell and headband structure, with metal reinforcements internally for enhanced durability without making them heavy.

Common Features

FeatureAKG K712 ProAKG K702
Driver TypeDynamicDynamic
Driver Size40 mm40 mm
Transducer TechnologyAKG’s Varimotion diaphragmAKG’s Varimotion diaphragm
Open-Back DesignYesYes
Impedance62 Ohms62 Ohms
Frequency Response10 Hz – 39.8 kHz10 Hz – 39.8 kHz
Sensitivity105 dB SPL/V105 dB SPL/V
Connector TypeMini XLR detachable cableMini XLR detachable cable
Headband TypeSelf-adjusting genuine leather strapSelf-adjusting genuine leather strap
Ear Cup ShapeOver-ear, ellipticalOver-ear, elliptical
Soundstage CapabilityWide and 3D-likeWide and 3D-like
Cable Length (Straight)3 meters3 meters
Studio UseSuitable for studio and reference workSuitable for studio and reference work
Wired ConnectionYesYes
Build MaterialMostly plastic with metal reinforcementsMostly plastic with metal reinforcements
Price Check AKG K712 Pro Price Check AKG K702 Price

FAQ

Are the AKG K712 Pro and K702 suitable for professional studio use?
Yes, both the AKG K712 Pro and K702 are designed for professional studio use, particularly for mixing, mastering, and reference listening due to their open-back design and accurate sound reproduction.

Do the AKG K712 Pro and K702 require a headphone amplifier?
While both headphones have an impedance of 62 ohms and can be powered by devices with decent output, using a headphone amplifier or quality audio interface is recommended to achieve their full sonic potential.

What is the main difference in sound between the AKG K712 Pro and K702?
The AKG K712 Pro has a slightly warmer and fuller sound with a subtle bass boost, while the K702 is more neutral and analytical, favoring flat response for critical listening.

Can I use the AKG K712 Pro or K702 for gaming?
Yes, both can be used for gaming, especially for titles that benefit from precise imaging and soundstage. However, you may need a proper amp or interface to drive them effectively from a gaming PC or console.

Are these headphones good for casual music listening?
The AKG K712 Pro is slightly more enjoyable for casual music listening due to its warmer sound signature, while the K702 is more suited to users who prefer a neutral and accurate sound.

Do the AKG K712 Pro and K702 have detachable cables?
Yes, both headphones feature detachable mini-XLR cables, allowing users to replace or upgrade their cables easily.

What material is used in the ear pads of the AKG K712 Pro and K702?
The AKG K712 Pro uses memory foam with velour covering for enhanced comfort, while the K702 uses standard foam with a similar velour exterior.

Are the AKG K712 Pro and K702 closed-back or open-back headphones?
Both the K712 Pro and K702 are open-back headphones, allowing air and sound to pass through the ear cups for a wider soundstage and natural audio reproduction.

Do the headphones come with extra accessories?
The AKG K712 Pro includes two cables (straight and coiled) and a carrying pouch, while the K702 comes with only one straight cable and no pouch.

Where are the AKG K712 Pro and K702 manufactured?
The AKG K712 Pro is manufactured in Slovakia, while the K702 is made in Austria.

Can I mix and master with either of these headphones?
Yes, both headphones are well-suited for mixing and mastering. The K702 is slightly more neutral, while the K712 Pro provides a more musical and enjoyable experience with similar detail resolution.

Do they support wireless connectivity?
No, both the AKG K712 Pro and K702 are wired headphones and do not support Bluetooth or wireless audio transmission.

How comfortable are the AKG K712 Pro and K702 for long sessions?
Both are very comfortable for extended use, thanks to their lightweight design, large velour ear pads, and self-adjusting leather headbands. The K712 Pro has a slight edge in comfort due to the memory foam pads.

Do the AKG K712 Pro and K702 isolate sound from the environment?
Being open-back headphones, they do not isolate external noise and are not ideal for use in noisy environments. Sound also leaks out, which can be heard by others nearby.

Which one is better for orchestral or acoustic music?
The AKG K712 Pro may be preferred for orchestral or acoustic genres due to its enhanced low-end warmth and wider soundstage, making the listening experience more immersive and natural.

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