AKG K551 review

Smashing all-rounders that really sing Tested at £230

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

Smashing all-rounders that really sing

Pros

  • +

    Spacious sound

  • +

    Well balanced

  • +

    Very detailed

Cons

  • -

    Big and not foldable

  • -

    Not exactly portable

Why you can trust What Hi-Fi? Our expert team reviews products in dedicated test rooms, to help you make the best choice for your budget. Find out more about how we test.

With the K551s, AKG has taken the Award-winning K550s, added in-line controls, slimmed-down and shortened the cable and included a carry pouch in an attempt to turn them into a portable pair of cans.

While we’re not entirely convinced their sheer size isn’t the first stumbling block in that argument, we certainly have no quarrel with their sound.

A closed-back design with a spacious open-back style performance, the K551s sound expertly balanced – and never boring or flat.

They convey every last detail of any genre you throw at them, with top-notch timing ensuring an upfront, exciting listen wherever you are.

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What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.

Read more about how we test