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HearWiki

AKG K601

60/ 100
Average
HearWiki score

Priced about right

$90
typical price, USD
Discontinuedupdated
Buy now onAmazon

At a glance

Brand
AKG
Type
Over-Ear
Fit
-
Connection
Wired
Noise cancelling
No
Released
2005

Score breakdownaverage overall

Sound7.2

The AKG K601 is an open-back over-ear headphone produced since 2005, known for its flat mid-range, slight high-frequency boost, and low distortion. It weighs 311g and features an elastic adjustable headband and unchangeable TRS cable.

The HearWiki takeAI-condensed

The AKG K601 is an open-back, dynamic over-ear headphone aimed at audiophiles, featuring a bright and balanced sound signature with a slight treble emphasis. It offers strong midrange detail and high comfort for long sessions, but requires a capable amplifier due to its 120-ohm impedance and provides minimal sound isolation. Its wired design and lack of active noise cancellation keep it simple and focused on pure audio performance.

What works

  • Balanced, detailed sound with a bright treble
  • Very comfortable for extended listening
  • Strong midrange clarity and low distortion
  • Lightweight open-back design

What doesn't

  • Needs a powerful amp to sound its best
  • Offers little to no sound isolation
  • Wired only, no modern features like ANC or USB-C

Paraphrased from published reviews & specs - not an original hands-on test. Our AI disclosure.

Specifications

Audio - AKG K601
Driver2× 45 mm dynamic
Driver typedynamic
Drivers per side2
Frequency response12 Hz - 39.5 kHz
Sound signaturebright
Impedance120 Ω
Sensitivity92 dB/mW

What the reviews said

2 source(s) feeding this product's score.

headphonereviews.org

71

This aggregate review page rates the K601 as a well-liked open circumaural headphone with strong mids, decent detail, and good comfort. It also reflects the common view that the K601 benefits from amplification and is not especially isolating.

Read the full review

testberichte.de

28

The review praises the K601 for excellent sound quality and high wearing comfort. It characterizes the tuning as very balanced with a small treble emphasis and low distortion, making it suitable for long listening sessions.

Read the full review

What YouTube reviewers say

Video reviews we found, each condensed to its verdict. They do feed the HearWiki score, at a measured weight below what a published written review carries.

8:28

AKG K601 (2005)

Aumkar Chandan3.8K viewsNov 2016

The reviewer discusses the AKG K601 as a historically significant headphone, being the first launched under Harman's ownership, and argues against the common criticism that it is one of AKG's worst. He finds it sounds similar to the K701/K702 and, after some adjustments, considers it a good-sounding headphone, praising its comfort and aesthetics. He also reflects on the end of AKG's Vienna facilities and the company's legacy.

PositiveWatch on YouTube

Summaries are AI condensations of each video's own conclusion, not transcripts. Titles, thumbnails and view counts belong to their channels.

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