OVERALL
ALTERNATIVES
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
Scored using Headphones Methodology v1.0
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Products in this category are scored under Frontum Headphones Methodology v1.0: technical specifications plus authentic consumer ratings, with 0% commercial bias.
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AKG K551 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price:~£180Form factor:over-earConnectivity:wiredBattery life:N/A hoursActive noise cancellation (ANC):no

AKG K551 Review: Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Headphones category and whether it is worth buying.

AKG K551
5.9/10

Overall score

Score
5.9/ 10
✕
What it is
An overall evaluation of the headphones' quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.
When it matters
When you need a quick reference to identify the best headphones on the market.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 66% of models
Score components

80%

5.7

Technical score

20%

6.7

User score

▼Worse than 66% of headphones
7.0

Value for money

Value for money
7.0/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 73% of models
Score components

70%

5.9

Overall score

30%

9.6

Price

▼Worse than 73%
5.7

Technical score

Technical score
5.7/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of technical performance for products in the Headphones category across these key areas: Sound, Calls & Controls, Connectivity, Features, Battery, Design.
When it matters
When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 59% of models
Score components

52%

6.6

Sound

20%

4.4

Features

10%

5.5

Design

8%

4.6

Connectivity

6%

4.0

Battery

4%

6.2

Calls & Controls

▼Worse than 59%
6.7

User score

User score
6.7/ 10
✕
What it is
A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters
When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 90% of models
Score components

70%

7.0

User ratings

30%

6.0

Number of reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
▼Worse than 90%
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Where to buy
*As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Best rankings
Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
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Technical Specifications of pair of headphones AKG K551

Technical score
Technical score
5.7/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of technical performance for products in the Headphones category across these key areas: Sound, Calls & Controls, Connectivity, Features, Battery, Design.
When it matters
When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 59% of models
Score components:

52%

6.6

Sound

20%

4.4

Features

10%

5.5

Design

8%

4.6

Connectivity

6%

4.0

Battery

4%

6.2

Calls & Controls

5.7
User score
User score
6.7/ 10
✕
What it is
A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters
When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 90% of models
Score components

70%

7.0

User ratings

30%

6.0

Number of reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
6.7
Popularity
Popularity
6.0/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters
When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 51% of models
Popularity:
AKG K551 has a popularity score of 6 points, which is higher than that of 51% of products in this category.
6.0
Value for money
Value for money
7.0/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 73% of models
Score components:

70%

5.9

Overall score

30%

9.6

Price

7.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
no
This pair of headphones does not support active noise cancellation. 27.5% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Driver type
dynamic
Driver size
50 mm
Market range: <10 mm – >50 mm
This pair of headphones uses a driver size of 50 mm, larger driver size than 86.3% of headphones and equal to 8.2% of headphones.
Number of drivers
1
Market range: <1 – >4
This pair of headphones uses 1 drivers, fewer drivers than 4% of headphones and equal to 96% of headphones.
Lowest frequency
12 Hz
Market range: <5 Hz – >20 Hz
This pair of headphones reaches a lowest frequency of 12 Hz, lower lowest frequency than 64.9% of headphones and equal to 2.1% of headphones.
Show more
Noise-canceling microphone
no
This pair of headphones does not support a noise-canceling microphone. 39% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
Can be used as a headset
yes
This pair of headphones is headset-ready, 84.8% is not. 15.2% of headphones can be used as headsets.
Number of microphones
1
Market range: <0 – >4
This pair of headphones has 1 microphones, more microphones than 26.9% of headphones and equal to 50.9% of headphones.
Boom microphone
no
This pair of headphones does not include a boom microphone. 13.5% of headphones have a boom microphone.
Microphone SNR
?
Show more
Connectivity
wired
This pair of headphones supports wired connectivity, less flexible connectivity than 49.2% of headphones and equal to 50.8% of headphones.
Bluetooth version
N/A
Maximum Bluetooth range
N/A
Audio latency
N/A
Multipoint support
no
This pair of headphones does not support multipoint. 30.6% of headphones support multipoint.
Show more
Ambient sound mode
no
This pair of headphones does not offer ambient sound mode. 24.9% of headphones support ambient sound mode.
EQ support
no
This pair of headphones does not support EQ customization. 23.2% of headphones support EQ.
Companion app
no
This pair of headphones does not work with a companion app. 21.6% of headphones support companion apps.
Adjustable ANC levels
N/A
Voice assistant support
yes
This pair of headphones supports voice assistants. 39.2% of headphones support voice assistants.
Show more
Battery life
N/A
Battery life with ANC
N/A
Charging time
N/A
Quick charge
no
This pair of headphones does not support quick charging. 33.1% of headphones support quick charge.
Battery capacity
N/A
Show more
Brand name
AKG
Form factor
over-ear
Weight
305 g
Market range: <14 g – >340 g
This pair of headphones weighs 305 g, heavier than 82.3% of headphones and equal to 0.4% of headphones.
Acoustic design
closed-back
Clamp force
?
Show more

AKG K551 vs the average pair of headphones

246810TotalDesignSoundBatteryConnectivityCalls & ControlsFeatures
  • 10 mm larger driver size
    This pair of headphones uses a larger driver size than the average pair of headphones (50 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
    50 mm vs 40 mm
  • 12 dB/mW higher sensitivity
    This pair of headphones has a higher sensitivity than the average pair of headphones (114 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
    114 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • Direct 3.5 mm plug
    This pair of headphones includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average pair of headphones does not. 39.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
  • In-line controls
    This pair of headphones includes in-line controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 36.6% of headphones support in-line controls.
  • 6 Hz lower bass extension
    This pair of headphones has a lower lowest frequency than the average pair of headphones (12 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
    12 Hz vs 18 Hz
  • 8,000 Hz higher treble extension
    This pair of headphones has a higher highest frequency than the average pair of headphones (28,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
    28,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz
  • 0.2 % lower distortion
    This pair of headphones has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average pair of headphones (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
    0.1 % vs 0.3 %
  • 11 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
    This pair of headphones has a higher sound pressure level than the average pair of headphones (114 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
    114 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL
  • 10 mm larger driver size
    This pair of headphones uses a larger driver size than the average pair of headphones (50 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
    50 mm vs 40 mm
  • 12 dB/mW higher sensitivity
    This pair of headphones has a higher sensitivity than the average pair of headphones (114 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
    114 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • 6 Hz lower bass extension
    This pair of headphones has a lower lowest frequency than the average pair of headphones (12 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
    12 Hz vs 18 Hz
  • 8,000 Hz higher treble extension
    This pair of headphones has a higher highest frequency than the average pair of headphones (28,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
    28,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz
  • 0.2 % lower distortion
    This pair of headphones has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average pair of headphones (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
    0.1 % vs 0.3 %
  • 11 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
    This pair of headphones has a higher sound pressure level than the average pair of headphones (114 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
    114 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL
  • Direct 3.5 mm plug
    This pair of headphones includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average pair of headphones does not. 39.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
  • In-line controls
    This pair of headphones includes in-line controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 36.6% of headphones support in-line controls.
  • 39.9% higher weight
    This pair of headphones is heavier than the average pair of headphones (305 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    305 g vs 218 g
  • Fixed cable
    This pair of headphones has a fixed cable, while the average pair of headphones has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
  • 7 mm tighter earcup height
    This pair of headphones has tighter earcup height than the average pair of headphones (53 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
    53 mm vs 60 mm
  • No battery indicator
    This pair of headphones does not show battery level clearly, while the average pair of headphones does. 56.3% of headphones have a battery level indicator.
  • 18.7% lower user score
    User score
    6.7/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
    When it matters
    When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
    Score distribution
    ▼
    ▼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    AKG K551
    the average pair of headphones
    AKG K551 has a lower user score than the average pair of headphones (6.74 vs 8).
    6.74 vs 8
  • Tangle-prone cable
    This pair of headphones uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average pair of headphones is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
  • No travel bag
    This pair of headphones does not include a travel bag, the average pair of headphones does. 65.4% of headphones include a travel bag.
  • 2x more expensive
    AKG K551 is more expensive than the average pair of headphones (£180 vs £90).
    £180 vs £90
  • 18.7% lower user score
    User score
    6.7/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
    When it matters
    When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
    Score distribution
    ▼
    ▼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    AKG K551
    the average pair of headphones
    AKG K551 has a lower user score than the average pair of headphones (6.74 vs 8).
    6.74 vs 8
  • 2x more expensive
    AKG K551 is more expensive than the average pair of headphones (£180 vs £90).
    £180 vs £90
  • 3.4% worse value for money
    AKG K551 has worse value for money than the average pair of headphones (7.03 vs 7.3).
    7.03 vs 7.27
  • 39.9% higher weight
    This pair of headphones is heavier than the average pair of headphones (305 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    305 g vs 218 g
  • Fixed cable
    This pair of headphones has a fixed cable, while the average pair of headphones has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
  • 7 mm tighter earcup height
    This pair of headphones has tighter earcup height than the average pair of headphones (53 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
    53 mm vs 60 mm
  • Tangle-prone cable
    This pair of headphones uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average pair of headphones is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
  • No travel bag
    This pair of headphones does not include a travel bag, the average pair of headphones does. 65.4% of headphones include a travel bag.
  • No battery indicator
    This pair of headphones does not show battery level clearly, while the average pair of headphones does. 56.3% of headphones have a battery level indicator.
  • 4 older release date
    This pair of headphones was released earlier than the average pair of headphones (2012 vs 2016). The average headphones were released in 2016.
    October 2012
    2012 vs 2016

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

9.0
Techscrew
≈ estimated
22/06/2016
Short review · sound and comfort impressions
Verdict
The AKG K551 is neutral and faithful, aimed at audiophiles, though large and somewhat uncomfortable.
9.0
Tom Richardson
≈ estimated
21/06/2013
First look · impressions, build and sound
Verdict
AKG K551 makes a strong first impression with a well-built, comfortable design and detailed sound, though bass is light.
Overview video
Not graded

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

whathifi.com
23/01/2013
Review · Closed-back portable headphones
Verdict
The AKG K551 is a well-balanced, detailed closed-back headphone with an open, spacious sound, though its large size and non-folding design hurt portability.
geardiary.com
01/02/2013
Review · Over-ear studio headphones
Verdict
The AKG K551 is big, comfortable and rich-sounding, better at home or in the studio than on trips, since it has no case and doesn't fold.
cnet.com
15/07/2013
Review · Portable studio headphones
Verdict
The AKG K551 is a sturdy, comfortable, airy-sounding headphone for classical and acoustic music, but its bass fades on the move, so it suits home use.
totallydubbed.net
25/07/2013
Hands-on review · Neutral headphones
Verdict
The AKG K551 suits listeners who want neutral, flat sound from a light, sturdy design, but its weak bass and need for an amp hold it back.
digit.in
01/08/2023
Expert review · Studio monitor headphones
Verdict
The AKG K551 is a precise, airy-sounding choice for analytical listeners who don't mind its bulk, but it doesn't stretch to the very highest and lowest tones.
ilounge.com
14/05/2021
Hands-on review · Apple device testing
Verdict
The AKG K551 is comfortable and light, but on iPod, iPhone and iPad it sounds thin and bass-starved, so it's hard to recommend at this price.
diyaudioheaven.wordpress.com
05/12/2013
Measurement test · Frequency response
Verdict
The AKG K551 is easy to drive and has deep, natural bass, but its treble peak and warmish tone are its main limits unless you modify it.
connect.de
05/02/2013
Review · Portable hi-fi headphones
Verdict
The AKG K551 is a comfortable headphone with clear, open sound from phones or external amps, though its cable is short.
hifitest.de
25/02/2013
Comparison test · Closed hi-fi headphones
Verdict
The AKG K551 is a balanced, well-built closed headphone that fits comfortably and sounds open, though it comes without a case.
A
avguide.ch
16/03/2013
Summary of the review
Review of eight really good headphones (including AKG K551)
(Translated)Show original
kopfhoererimtest.de
01/04/2014
Hi-Fi test · Portable studio headphones
Verdict
The AKG K551 is the portable version of the K550, with a very good midrange and airy sound, but its remote only works with iOS devices.
W
welt.de
2013
Summary of the review
Results: 14 over-ear headphones reviewed
(Translated)Show original
lesnumeriques.com
14/03/2013
Lab test · Closed portable headphones
Verdict
The AKG K551 is a closed headphone with wide, balanced sound and strong isolation, but its large, non-folding frame and lack of a case limit portability.
audiocasque.fr
12/03/2014
Full review · Portable audiophile headphones
Verdict
The AKG K551 is a neutral, wide-sounding portable headphone for classical and acoustic music, with dry bass and no case to protect it.
microcose.blogspot.com
01/12/2012
Blog review · Hands-on listening
Verdict
The AKG K551 sounds wide and three-dimensional for closed headphones, with comfortable pads, but its thin cable and plasticky remote feel less finished.

Third-party reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
Reviews last updated: November 2026 · How we calculate this

What customers like about AKG K551

  • Durable, premium build quality featuring metal components
  • Highly comfortable for long listening sessions with soft padding
  • Surprisingly wide and 'airy' soundstage for a closed-back design
  • Neutral and detailed sound profile well-suited for classical and acoustic music
  • Includes an integrated 3-button remote and mic for mobile use
  • Efficient and easy to drive from mobile devices due to 32-ohm impedance
  • Fold-flat earcups improve portability

What customers don't like about AKG K551

  • Noticeable lack of bass impact, which can feel 'thin' or 'bland'
  • Large and bulky physical design can look 'ridiculous' for public use
  • In-line remote functionality is primarily optimized for Apple devices and may not work on Android
  • Relies heavily on a perfect ear cup seal; glasses or a poor fit can further reduce bass
  • Does not include a carrying case or a 1/4-inch adapter
  • Fixed, non-detachable cable makes replacement difficult if damaged
  • Passive isolation may struggle to block out low-frequency noise in loud environments

Verdict

The AKG K551 is a closed-back, over-ear reference-class headset featuring massive 50mm dynamic drivers and proprietary Real Image Engineering designed to create a spacious, dimensional soundstage typically associated with open-back designs. Technical specifications include a frequency response of 12Hz to 28kHz, a low 32-ohm impedance for easy drivability from mobile devices, and a high sensitivity of 114dB SPL/V. Key strengths include its sturdy build quality, excellent passive noise isolation, and a neutral, detailed sound profile suited for classical or acoustic music, further enhanced by a 1.2m oxygen-free cable with an in-line microphone and remote for iOS devices. However, it is often criticized for being bulky and less portable than competitors, having a thin non-removable cable, and lacking sub-bass impact if a perfect ear-pad seal is not achieved.

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