Field Test · Studio Gear Review
AKG K-240 MKII
Detailed technical testing of AKG’s semi-open, over-ear professional headphones
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Spec Sheet
- Semi-open
- Circumaural
- Dynamic
- Nominal impedance: 55 Ohm
- Nominal power capacity: 200 mW
- Frequency range: 15 – 25,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 104 dB/V
- Detachable cable, one-sided cable connector
- Straight 3 m cable with 3.5 mm jack
- 5 m coiled cable with 3.5 mm jack
- Screw-in 6.3 mm jack adaptor
- Weight without cable: 226 g
- Weight with cable: 281 g
- Includes one pair of Velour ear pads
Studio Log
| Available since | March 2008 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 206947 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | Semi Open |
| Impedance | 55 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 15 Hz – 25000 Hz |
| Adaptor | Yes |
| Replaceable Cable | Yes |
| Colour | Black |
| Max. SPL | 104 dB |
| Sensitivity | 91 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Mini Jack |
| Adapter | Yes |
| Weight | 226 g |
| Replacable Cable | Yes |
| Marrone/Argento | Black |
Demo Footage
Field Photography
QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
Introduction
The AKG K-240 MKII, launched in 2008, remains a cornerstone in affordable semi-open studio headphones. Renowned for their neutral sound profile and lightweight design, these headphones continue to serve musicians, producers, and audio professionals seeking clear and accurate monitoring at a budget-friendly price point of around £66.
Design and Build
The K-240 MKII employs an over-ear, circumaural design with a semi-open system. This structure offers a compromise between sound isolation and natural listening comfort. Weighing 226 grams without cables, the unit stays light on the head during extended sessions. The headband is uniquely engineered to self-adjust, providing a secure fit without manual repositioning, a feature praised by users for comfort over hours of use.
The headphones include two sets of ear pads: synthetic leather and velour, the latter improving comfort and reducing heat buildup over long listening periods. The cups enclose the ears fully, but some reviewers with smaller ears have noted slight pressure on ear edges, which might be mitigated by modifying the velour pad opening.
Construction quality is solid given the price, though certain components such as cable connectors have occasionally shown durability issues due to solder joints failing internally around the mini XLR input, impairing the benefit of the detachable cable design.
Connectivity and Accessories
AKG supplies the K-240 MKII with a comprehensive accessory suite, enhancing versatility. Two detachable cables are included: a straight 3-metre cable and a 5-metre coiled cable, both terminating in 3.5mm jacks with a screw-on 6.3mm adaptor. The mini XLR, one-sided cable connector system enables simple cable replacement, reducing the risk of total headphone failure due to cable damage.
This flexibility makes the K-240 MKII suitable for a range of studio, personal, and practice applications, connecting easily to audio interfaces, mixers, and amplifiers.
Sound Quality
With a nominal impedance of 55 Ohms and frequency response spanning 15 Hz to 25 kHz, the AKG K-240 MKII delivers a sound signature geared toward neutrality and accuracy rather than bass-heavy or colour-enhanced reproduction. The maximum sound pressure level reaches 104 dB, and sensitivity measures at 91 dB, offering sufficient volume for most home studio contexts without amplifiers that push excessive power.
The headphones are best noted for precise midrange reproduction. Vocals and instrumental details appear natural and well-defined, aiding clarity when mixing. However, bass extension and impact are moderate, lacking deep sub-bass emphasis, which might disappoint those who prefer a strong low-end presence. High frequencies are clear but can be sharp to some listeners, especially at higher volumes.
Noise isolation is minimal due to the semi-open design, allowing ambient sounds to be heard and preventing ear fatigue over long listening periods. This also means the headphones are unsuitable for recording directly with microphones, as sound leakage creates bleed.
Comfort and Usability
One of the K-240 MKII’s strongest attributes is wearability. The lightweight construction and self-adjusting headband minimise discomfort. Users report wearing the headphones for multiple hours without significant fatigue, which is essential for mixing and monitoring tasks.
The velour ear pads enhance comfort further compared to leather pads, especially in warm environments or prolonged use. Despite occasional reports of ear pressure due to the pad opening size, most find the fit secure and comfortable. Those who wear glasses should note a possibility of pressure points, a common issue with over-ear models.
Limitations and Considerations
The cable connection system, while advantageous for replacement, has proven vulnerable to internal solder joint failures in some instances. Although these faults are repairable, they detract from overall reliability expectations.
Sound leakage restricts use during recording and environments where noise isolation is critical. The moderate impedance can result in lower volume levels when driven by low-powered devices like smartphones, necessitating an audio interface or headphone amplifier for optimal performance.
Some users familiar with more expensive or closed-back headphones might find the bass response insufficient or the soundstage narrower, but within its price bracket and design goals, these compromises are reasonable.
Conclusion
The AKG K-240 MKII offers a compelling package for those seeking a clear, balanced listening experience for studio monitoring, mixing, and casual listening. Its semi-open design, comfortable fit, and included accessories make it well suited for home studios and music practice. Although not ideal for tasks requiring isolation or heavy bass emphasis, it excels in midrange accuracy and non-fatiguing sound realism.
Overall, the AKG K-240 MKII delivers excellent value at its price, continuing the legacy of the original K-240 with refinements that benefit users prioritising precision and comfort over coloured sound or isolation. It remains a trusted reference for beginners and seasoned professionals requiring reliable, precise headphones without a steep financial outlay.
