AKG K553 MKII - Closed Back Studio Headphones
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- SKU
- 3280H00130
Description
AKG K553 MKII – Closed Back Studio Headphones
The AKG K553 MKII delivers a rare balance: the noise isolation of closed-back design paired with the spacious, dimensional sound characteristic of open-back monitors. Built for the long haul in tracking sessions and studio work, these headphones combine comfort through extra-large soft ear pads with a lightweight over-ear form factor that stays out of your way during hours of critical listening. The 2D-axis fold-flat mechanism travels as well as you do—from the control room to the live tracking space.
Audio Performance
The 50mm drivers deliver the kind of honest, accurate bass response you need to nail your mix on any playback system, with a frequency response of 12Hz–28kHz and sensitivity rated at 114dB/V that pushes plenty of level from any source. Low 32 Ohm impedance and 200mW maximum input power mean these headphones work reliably straight from your interface, laptop, or portable rig without compromise.
Design & Build
The closed-back construction locks in isolation so you hear only what matters during critical monitoring and playback, while the 305g weight and circumaural fit keep fatigue out of the equation over extended sessions. Replaceable earpads and a detachable 3-meter cable with 1/8" plug and included 1/4" adapter let you adapt these to your exact studio setup—from desktop mixing to live sound checks.
Key Features
- 50mm drivers for precise sound reproduction
- Closed-back design with high noise insulation
- 32 Ohm impedance with 114dB/V sensitivity
- Frequency response: 12Hz–28kHz
- Maximum input power: 200mW
- 305g lightweight circumaural design
- Extra-large soft ear pads for extended comfort
- 2D-axis fold-flat mechanism for storage and transport
- Detachable 3-meter cable with 1/8" and 1/4" connectivity
- Replaceable earpads
The K553 MKII is a dependable reference tool for serious tracking, mixing, and monitoring work across studio and location applications.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Country of Manufacture | China |
Reviews
At a Glance
The AKG K553 MKII is a closed-back studio headphone built for accurate mixing and mastering, with a rare combination of tight isolation and spacious soundstage that rivals open-back designs. Its lightweight frame, large soft ear pads, and fold-flat mechanism make it comfortable for marathon session work and portable enough to move between studio and location gigs. The 50mm drivers deliver neutral reference-grade reproduction across a wide 12Hz–28kHz range, making it a dependable choice for engineers and producers who need honest monitoring without fatigue.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Home Recording, Studio Sessions, Mixing, Mastering |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Accurate bass response, dimensional soundstage, precise sound reproduction, neutral reference character |
| Less specialized for | Live Performance, Touring (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the closed-back design affect the soundstage compared to open-back headphones?
The K553 MKII uses advanced closed-back technology to create a dimensional soundstage that rivals open-back designs, a rare trait in isolation headphones. The closed design also provides high noise insulation critical for accurate reference monitoring without external interference, making it better suited to mixed studio environments than open-back models.
Are these headphones comfortable for long mixing and mastering sessions?
Yes. The headphones feature a lightweight circumaural design with extra-large soft ear pads engineered to minimize ear fatigue during extended work. The comfortable fit is a key feature for professional monitoring over many hours.
What cables and connectors are included?
The K553 MKII comes with a detachable 3-meter cable that includes both 1/8 inch and 1/4 inch adapters, supporting connection to both portable devices and professional studio interfaces.
Will these work with portable recorders and mobile devices?
Yes. With 114dB/V sensitivity and 32 Ohm impedance, these headphones deliver impressive output from both professional audio interfaces and portable devices. The maximum input power rating of 200mW ensures reliable performance across a wide range of setups.
Are the ear pads replaceable?
Yes. The ear pads are replaceable, supporting long-term use and durability as part of regular maintenance and ownership.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
Sales tax is collected only on orders shipped to California; orders shipped to any other US state are not charged sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. At a typical 7% rate that is an estimated $20 less at checkout than the same listed price on a marketplace, which collects sales tax as the facilitator in most states. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.
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