Overview

The AKG K271 MkII is a closed-back, over-ear studio headphone positioned for monitoring, mixing, and stage use. It ships with two detachable mini-XLR cables (3 m straight, 5 m coiled) and features an auto-mute switch in the headband that mutes audio when the headphones are taken off [1][2]. Official specs list 16 Hz–28 kHz bandwidth, 55 Ω impedance, and 104 dB SPL/V sensitivity (max input 200 mW) with a 30 mm driver [1][2]. While robust and practical, its measured tuning and distortion behavior leave it trailing newer, measurement-optimized studio models.

Scientific Validity

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• Manufacturer specs (for context): 16–28,000 Hz, 55 Ω, 104 dB SPL/V, 200 mW, 30 mm driver [1][2].
• Independent measurements: Reference Audio Analyzer reports measured sensitivity ≈109.7 dB SPL and impedance ≈74.3 Ω, indicating sample variance vs. catalog values [3]. HeadphoneCheck’s frequency-response plot shows sub-bass roll-off (e.g., 25 Hz ≈ −12.5 dB, 100 Hz ≈ −2.8 dB relative to their reference), midrange rise (200–630 Hz ≈ +7 to +9 dB), and an upper-treble lift (10 kHz ≈ +5 dB) [4]. Audio Science Review’s analysis similarly notes lean bass and bright upper mids/treble, with reasonable 200 Hz–3 kHz compliance but non-transparent overall balance [5].
• Implication: The FR deviations exceed a typical ±3 dB transparency band across much of the spectrum; bass extension and treble peaks make the K271 MkII less neutral than recent studio competitors.

Overall, published data support only moderate scientific validity.

Technology Level

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Conventional 30 mm dynamic driver, detachable mini-XLR cabling, and the headband auto-mute convenience feature [1][2]. No evidence of modern acoustic optimization (e.g., target-matched tuning, advanced magnet structures/diaphragm materials). Solid, time-tested design, but not cutting-edge.

Cost-Performance

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Review-target market price (denominator): 130 USD (current market snapshot) [6].

Cheapest equal-or-better comparator: AKG K361 at 79.99 USD (new, major US retailer) [7].
Equivalence note: Closed-back, over-ear studio monitor with detachable cables; measured FR RMS deviation ≈2.5 dB and low-frequency extension to 20 Hz on RTINGS, indicating equal-or-better neutrality vs. K271 MkII on core axes relevant to monitoring (FR/extension; THD is also well-controlled) [8].

CP calculation: (79.99 USD ÷ 130 USD = 0.615) → 0.6.

Reliability & Support

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Replaceable pads/cables and long market availability are positives. Warranty varies by region (e.g., Japan offers a 3-year “Y3” dealer warranty on this model) [9]; typical distributor warranties elsewhere are shorter. The auto-mute’s mechanical switch adds complexity but is a known, serviceable design.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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Prioritizes workhorse practicality (auto-mute, serviceable parts) over modern, measurement-driven tuning. Rational for basic studio utility, but not optimized for high-fidelity neutrality by today’s standards.

Advice

Choose the K271 MkII if you specifically need headband auto-mute and a rugged mini-XLR system. If neutrality/value matter more, the AKG K361 (or K371) provides closer-to-target FR and better bass extension at a lower or similar price [8]. For live tracking, K271’s isolation and auto-mute remain useful; for critical mix decisions, competitors with measurement-validated tuning are safer defaults.

References

[1] AKG. “K271 MKII | Professional studio headphones.” https://www.akg.com/headphones/professional-headphones/K271MKII.html (accessed 2025-08-31).
[2] AKG. “AKG_K271_MKII_Spec_Sheet.pdf.” https://www.akg.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw32f8e624/pdfs/AKG_K271_MKII_Spec_Sheet.pdf (accessed 2025-08-31). Auto-mute in headband; 30 mm driver; cables.
[3] Reference Audio Analyzer. “AKG K 271 MKII Measurement’s report.” https://reference-audio-analyzer.pro/en/report/hp/akg-k-271-mk2.php (accessed 2025-08-31). Sensitivity/impedance and FR plots.
[4] HeadphoneCheck. “AKG K271 MKII.” https://www.headphonecheck.com/test/akg-k271-mkii/ (accessed 2025-08-31). FR points (e.g., 25 Hz −12.5 dB; 10 kHz +5 dB).
[5] Audio Science Review. “AKG K271 Review (Closed Back Headphone).” https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/akg-k271-review-closed-back-headphone.24750/ (accessed 2025-08-31).
[6] Klarna price overview. “AKG K271 MKII prices.” https://www.klarna.com/us/shopping/pl/cl11/3205653/Headphones/AKG-K271-MKII/ (accessed 2025-08-31).
[7] Guitar Center. “AKG K361 Closed-Back Studio Headphones — 79.99 USD.” https://www.guitarcenter.com/AKG/K361-Closed-Back-Studio-Headphones-Black-1500000286083.gc (accessed 2025-08-31).
[8] RTINGS. “AKG K361 Headphones Review.” https://www.rtings.com/headphones/reviews/akg/k361 (accessed 2025-08-31). RMS deviation 2.5 dB; LFE 20 Hz; isolation/THD summaries.
[9] Soundhouse (JP). “AKG K271MKII 密閉型モニターヘッドホン 3年保証モデル.” https://www.soundhouse.co.jp/products/detail/item/124431/ (accessed 2025-08-31).

(2025.8.31)