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AKG K553 MKII Closed-back Studio Headphones

Closed-back, Over-ear Studio Headphones with 50mm Transducers and Detachable Cable
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AKG K553 MKII Closed-back Studio Headphones
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Open-back Sound with Excellent Noise Isolation

AKG K553 MKIIs provide noise isolation on par with closed-back headphones, along with a transparent sound reminiscent of open-back designs. Upgraded 50mm transducers serve up top-shelf sound, while soft ear pads ensure comfort over long sessions. You can expect great sound when listening to music on your tablet or smartphone, thanks to low-impedance drivers. Beyond that, a detachable cable extends the life of your headphones. When you're away from your studio monitors, you can trust the sound of AKG K553 MKII headphones for editing, mixing, and critical listening.

Closed-back vs. open-back

Also referred to as simply "closed-" and "open-back," this distinction addresses the design of the part of the headphone that covers the area behind the driver in a straight line away from the side of your head. Closed-back headphones like the AKG K553 MKII prevent sound from escaping and leaking into your microphone. The downside of this design is that it traps pressure inside the headphone, which creates false low frequencies. Open-back headphones, on the other hand, don't suffer from this issue. They deliver outstanding accuracy and clarity that are suitable for critical listening. AKG K553 MKIIs aim to combine the noise-isolating qualities of closed-back headphones with the spacious, transparent sound of open-back designs.

Circumaural vs. supra-aural

In layman's terms, these terms simply mean "over ear" (circumaural) and "on ear" (supra-aural). In the case of headphones, this refers to the design of the earcup, which is the cushion that sits between the headphone's speakers (drivers) and your ear. Here at Sweetwater, we rarely use supra-aural headphones for professional applications; although, they're great for casual listening — especially if you need to be aware of what's going on around you. On the other hand, over-ear headphones like AKG K553 MKIIs offer excellent attenuation of external noise.

AKG K553 MKII Headphones Features:

  • Over-ear headphones with upgraded 50mm transducers
  • Excellent noise isolation on par with closed-back headphones
  • Spacious, transparent sound reminiscent of open-back designs
  • Performs well with virtually any headphone connection thanks to low-impedance drivers
  • Folds flat for storage and transport
  • Detachable cable extends the life of your headphones
  • Terminates in an 1/8" plug, comes with a 1/4" screw-on adapter

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Tech Specs

  • Type: Wired
  • Open/Closed: Closed
  • Fit Style: Circumaural (Around the Ear)
  • Driver Size: 50mm
  • Noise Attenuation: Passive Noise Isolating
  • Frequency Response: 12Hz-28kHz
  • Impedance: 32 ohms
  • Connectivity: 1/8" plug, 1/4" adapter
  • Cable Type: Coiled
  • Cable Length: 16.4 ft.
  • Detachable Cable: Yes
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Color: Black
  • Weight: 0.67 lbs. (without cable)
  • Manufacturer Part Number: 3280H00130

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Customer Reviews

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Rated 5/5

Fantastic headphones

These have been my mix headphones for about three years now and I do say they are fantastic. Extremely detailed sound and my mixes translate well to many different listening platforms. I see a couple reviews saying that it has harsh highs and no bass, which is absolutely bizarre to me, because sometimes I even find myself scooping out a little low end after revisions. Maybe they just got a bad batch. I'm not sure, but the build quality is absolutely phenomenal. Absolutely no tears in the headphone cushions.
Music background: Audio engineer
Rated 5/5

I'm Not Crying

These came in a couple days earlier than expected. Next day even! Thank you, Simon for the recommendation. I have never been given such a strong emotional response because of audio quality. I think I'm gonna call them "The Uglies" because I'm an emotional wreck after listening to 20 minutes of music on these things.
Music background: Studio\Live Bassist and Multi-Instrumentalist for 17 years.
Rated 5/5

Great for tracking, mixing, or just listening.

These headphones revealed bass lines in some tracks that were just mud on other headphones. The closed-backs are great for tracking and more accurate than my AKG K240's or AT ATH-M20x's (and a thousand times more comfortable than the AT's). I worried about the coiled lead, but I prefer them now, because they are never underfoot. (Wish I could say the same for my cat!)

The only "downside" is that doing voice acting, they reveal more of my less than perfect takes! Oh, well... it's, uh, an acting choice, not a mistake...
Music background: Voice actor, vocalist, choral recording and mix-down, musician.
Rated 5/5

Amazing sound

These are the first high end headphones I have used, the sound is amazing compared to anything I have heard before. I heard things in mixes I have never knew were there before. Sound seems to be very neutral and even.
Rated 5/5

Music listening and appreciation

These are really great. Maybe a little break-in period. Sounding better each day. I have a pair of Shure Srh840's which are very good. However I am liking the AKG K553 MKII much better. I like the highs and midrange better. The overall sound seems to sound a little more fuller and balanced.

Highly suggest you trying them.
Music background: Musician-Trombone. Jazz and Big Band Jazz.
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