According to AKG, the K240 Studio is their most popular model.
While the original K240 was created in 1975, it has gone through many minor revisions before branching out into the K240 MKII and the K240 Studio.
Both models are very similar. The MKII has a different aesthetic and has additional accessories but the Lower-priced “Studio Model” without the fancy accoutrements edges out it’s more expensive sibling.
The K240 design has been around for decades. The latest incarnation in the very affordable K240 studio brings together time-tested engineering with modern materials.
If you can live without the fancy bells and whistles of it’s more expensive (but nearly identical) brother the MKII, the Studio version rewards you with incredible midrange clarity and fast transient response.
From “The Best Open Back Headphones for Mixing and Mastering”:
The AKG K240 Studio is part of a long line of K240 headphones with roots going back as far as the 70s.
This particular iteration features a 30mm driver and has a neutral sound, which makes it work great for mixing. Its flat response allows mixes to translate reasonably well to speakers. Just don’t expect it to perform as well as expensive equipment made specifically for studio use.
Speaking of flat, some may consider the sound quality too flat sounding for casual listening to music.
In addition to mixing, the AKG K240 is also a good affordable tool for video editors and content creators who want to listen in to their work without having to spend too much on professional studio equipment.
The K240 Studio is built to last and parts like the cables and ear cups are easily replaceable.
It has a detachable cable that is fixed onto the unit with a mini XLR jack.
A longtime studio staple, the K240 Studio is trusted by many audio engineers the world over as an affordable but neutral and durable studio workhorse. These budget studio headphones are easy to recommend for any recording studio.
Pros
Flat response
Budget-friendly versatile headphones
Viable for mixing, video editing, and more
Detachable cable
Cons
Frequency response is a bit too flat for casual listening
Specifications
Type: Semi-open back
Driver Size: 30mm
Magnet Type: Not Specified
Frequency Response: 15 – 25000 Hz
Maximum Input Power: 200 mW
Sensitivity: 104 dB SPL/V
Impedance: 55 Ohms
Weight: 9.52 oz.
Cable and Connectivity: 3m cable. Stereo plug – 3.5mm (1/8-inch) with 6.3 mm (1/4”) screw-on adapter
Best For: Mixing, Mastering
Although these were previously on our recommended list, there are now more highly rated options available which you can see in our guide to The Best Studio Headphones.
