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AKG N90q Le Review | 93 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£1,320
  • Avg. price in US: ~$1,500
  • Form factor: over-ear
  • Connectivity: wireless
  • Battery life: 12 hours
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC): yes

AKG N90q Le review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

7.2

Overall score

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 components:

80.0%

7.2

Technical Score

20.0%

?

User score

Very good
7.2

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

9.8

Sound

20.0%

4.2

Features

10.0%

5.4

Design

8.0%

3.6

Connectivity

6.0%

3.2

Battery

4.0%

7.2

Calls & Controls

Very good
?

User score

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 components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 5.7
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    9.0

    Audio latency

    25.0%

    1.0

    Low-latency game mode

    20.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    12.0%

    1.0

    Noise-canceling microphone

    8.0%

    1.7

    Battery life

  • 3.7
    Travel

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    Active noise cancellation (ANC)

    24.0%

    1.7

    Battery life

    18.0%

    1.0

    Weight

    16.0%

    1.0

    Multipoint support

    14.0%

    1.0

    Ambient sound mode

  • 4.3
    Calls

    Score components:

    28.0%

    1.0

    Noise-canceling microphone

    24.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    18.0%

    1.0

    Multipoint support

    16.0%

    1.7

    Battery life

    14.0%

    8.0

    Companion app

  • 2.8
    Workout

    Score components:

    28.0%

    1.0

    Weight

    24.0%

    1.0

    Water resistance

    20.0%

    4.0

    IP rating

    16.0%

    1.7

    Battery life

    12.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

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Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £1,320

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The AKG N90Q LE is a flagship, closed-back reference headphone featuring 52mm offset dynamic drivers, a 10Hz–30kHz frequency response, and an impedance of 32 ohms. Developed with Quincy Jones, it distinguishes itself with TruNote auto-calibration technology that uses internal microphones to tailor the sound signature to the user's ear anatomy, alongside a built-in DAC for high-resolution 24-bit/96kHz playback via micro-USB. Main characteristics include active noise cancellation, adjustable spatial modes (Standard, Studio, Surround), and rotary ear cup controls for volume and tone. Its primary pros are the exceptional, personalized soundstage, premium aluminum and sheepskin leather build, and a comprehensive accessory bundle including a power bank. However, significant cons include a heavy 460g weight that may cause fatigue, the requirement for battery power even for wired use, a relatively short 12-hour battery life, and a high retail price point.

Technical Specifications of AKG N90q Le

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

?

Sound

20.0%

?

Features

10.0%

?

Design

8.0%

?

Connectivity

6.0%

?

Battery

4.0%

?

Calls & Controls

7.2
AKG N90q Le has a technical score of 7.23 points, which is higher than that of 86% of products in this category.
User score

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 components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
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.
1.0
AKG N90q Le has a popularity of 1 points, which is lower than 72.7% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

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 components:

60.0%

7.2

Overall score

40.0%

3.5

Price

6.1
AKG N90q Le has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.1 points, which is lower than 78.9% of products in this category.
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

yes
AKG N90q Le supports active noise cancellation. 72.6% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Driver type
What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used
When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic
Driver size
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

52 mm
AKG N90q Le uses a driver size of 52 mm, larger driver size than 94.5% of headphones and equal to 0.2% of headphones.
Number of drivers
What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup
When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

1
AKG N90q Le uses 1 drivers, equal to 96% of headphones.
Lowest frequency
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

10 Hz
AKG N90q Le reaches a lowest frequency of 10 Hz, lower lowest frequency than 67.3% of headphones and equal to 12.5% of headphones.
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Noise-canceling microphone
What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls
When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
AKG N90q Le does not support a noise-canceling microphone. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
Can be used as a headset
What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.
When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
AKG N90q Le is headset-ready, 84.7% is not. 15.3% of headphones can be used as headsets.
Number of microphones
What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

4
AKG N90q Le has 4 microphones, more microphones than 88.2% of headphones and equal to 5% of headphones.
Boom microphone
What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity
When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG N90q Le does not include a boom microphone. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.
Microphone SNR
What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone
When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

?
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Connectivity
What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

wireless
AKG N90q Le supports wireless connectivity, more flexible connectivity than 52.6% of headphones and equal to 47.4% of headphones.
supports both wireless and wired connectivity.
Bluetooth version
What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported
When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A
Maximum Bluetooth range
What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device
When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A
Audio latency
What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode
When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

?
Multipoint support
What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices
When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
AKG N90q Le does not support multipoint. 65.1% of headphones support multipoint.
Show more
Ambient sound mode
What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness
When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
AKG N90q Le does not offer ambient sound mode. 76.9% of headphones support ambient sound mode.
EQ support
What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer
When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
AKG N90q Le supports EQ customization. 76.8% of headphones support EQ.
Companion app
What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates
When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Adjustable ANC levels
What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels
When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A
Voice assistant support
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG N90q Le does not support voice assistants. 60.9% of headphones support voice assistants.
Show more
Battery life
What it is: Playback time on a single charge
When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

12 hours
AKG N90q Le offers battery life of 12 hours, lower battery life than 85.9% of headphones and equal to 3.6% of headphones.
Battery life with ANC
What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled
When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

12 hours
AKG N90q Le offers battery life with ANC of 12 hours, lower battery life with ANC than 92.8% of headphones and equal to 2% of headphones.
Charging time
What it is: Time required for a full battery charge
When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

4 hours
AKG N90q Le needs 4 hours to charge, higher charging time than 90.5% of headphones and equal to 4.7% of headphones.
Quick charge
What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period
When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
AKG N90q Le supports quick charge. 31% of headphones support quick charge.
Battery capacity
What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery
When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

1,200 mAh
AKG N90q Le has a battery capacity of 1200 mAh, higher battery capacity than 95.1% of headphones and equal to 2.5% of headphones.
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Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

AKG
Form factor
What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)
When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

over-ear
Weight
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

460 g
AKG N90q Le weighs 460 g, heavier than 97.8% of headphones and equal to 0.3% of headphones.
Acoustic design
What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)
When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back
Clamp force
What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head
When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
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AKG N90q Le vs the average headphone

  • Active noise cancellation
    AKG N90q Le supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
    What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
    When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

    Importance: HIGH

    AKG N90q Le supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
  • Hi-Res Audio certification
    AKG N90q Le has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
    What it is: Certified for high-resolution audio playback
    When it matters: When official support for high-resolution playback matters to you.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG N90q Le has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
  • EQ customization
    AKG N90q Le supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
    What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer
    When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG N90q Le supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
  • Spatial audio support
    AKG N90q Le supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
    What it is: Supports immersive surround sound playback
    When it matters: When movies, games, and immersive mixes are part of your listening.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG N90q Le supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
  • 12 mm larger driver size
    AKG N90q Le uses a larger driver size than the average headphone (52 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
    What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
    When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG N90q Le uses a larger driver size than the average headphone (52 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.52 mm vs 40 mm
  • 13 dB/mW higher sensitivity
    AKG N90q Le has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (115 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
    What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
    When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=106 dB/mW

    AKG N90q Le has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (115 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.115 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • More flexible connectivity
    AKG N90q Le offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
    supports both wireless and wired connectivity.
    What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
    When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

    Importance: HIGH

    AKG N90q Le offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
  • 8 Hz lower bass extension
    AKG N90q Le has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
    What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
    When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=10 Hz

    AKG N90q Le has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.10 Hz vs 18 Hz
  • Foldable design
    AKG N90q Le has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
  • 1.8 m more useful cable length
    AKG N90q Le offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (3 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
  • Active noise cancellation
    AKG N90q Le supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
  • Hi-Res Audio certification
    AKG N90q Le has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
  • Spatial audio support
    AKG N90q Le supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
  • 12 mm larger driver size
    AKG N90q Le uses a larger driver size than the average headphone (52 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
  • 13 dB/mW higher sensitivity
    AKG N90q Le has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (115 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
  • 8 Hz lower bass extension
    AKG N90q Le has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
  • 10,000 Hz higher treble extension
    AKG N90q Le has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (30,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
  • 12 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
    AKG N90q Le has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (115 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
  • 2x higher battery capacity
    AKG N90q Le has a higher battery capacity than the average headphone (1,200 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.
  • Rechargeable battery
    AKG N90q Le has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
  • Play while charging
    AKG N90q Le can play while charging, the average headphone cannot. 55.9% of headphones support play while charging.
  • More flexible connectivity
    AKG N90q Le offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
  • On-device controls
    AKG N90q Le includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • In-line controls
    AKG N90q Le includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
  • 3 more microphones
    AKG N90q Le has more microphones than the average headphone (4 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
  • Wind noise reduction
    AKG N90q Le reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
  • EQ customization
    AKG N90q Le supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.

Total
Design
Sound
Battery
Connectivity
Calls & Controls
Features
  • 2.11x higher weight
    AKG N90q Le is heavier than the average headphone (460 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
  • 3 mm tighter earcup width
    AKG N90q Le has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (40 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
  • 0.7 % higher distortion
    AKG N90q Le has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
  • 2 hours longer charging time
    AKG N90q Le has a higher charging time than the average headphone (4 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
  • 18 hours shorter battery life
    AKG N90q Le has a lower battery life than the average headphone (12 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
  • 18 hours shorter ANC battery life
    AKG N90q Le has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (12 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
  • No voice assistant support
    AKG N90q Le does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
  • 2 hours longer charging time
    AKG N90q Le has a higher charging time than the average headphone (4 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
    What it is: Time required for a full battery charge
    When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=2 hours

    AKG N90q Le has a higher charging time than the average headphone (4 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.4 hours vs 2 hours
  • 2.11x higher weight
    AKG N90q Le is heavier than the average headphone (460 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    What it is: Total weight of the headphones
    When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <150 g

    AKG N90q Le is heavier than the average headphone (460 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.460 g vs 218 g
  • No voice assistant support
    AKG N90q Le does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
    What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
    When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG N90q Le does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
  • 0.7 % higher distortion
    AKG N90q Le has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
    What it is: Percentage of harmonic distortion in audio output
    When it matters: When cleaner sound reproduction matters at louder volumes.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <=1%

    AKG N90q Le has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.1 % vs 0.3 %
  • 18 hours shorter battery life
    AKG N90q Le has a lower battery life than the average headphone (12 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
    What it is: Playback time on a single charge
    When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >45 hours

    AKG N90q Le has a lower battery life than the average headphone (12 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.12 hours vs 30 hours
  • 18 hours shorter ANC battery life
    AKG N90q Le has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (12 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
    What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled
    When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >40 hours

    AKG N90q Le has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (12 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.12 hours vs 30 hours
  • 14.67x more expensive
    AKG N90q Le is more expensive than the average headphone (£1,320 vs £90).
    AKG N90q Le is more expensive than the average headphone (£1,320 vs £90).£1,320 vs £90
  • 4.65x less popular
    AKG N90q Le is less popular than the average headphone (1.00 vs 4.646).
    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.
    AKG N90q Le is less popular than the average headphone (1.00 vs 4.646).1 vs 4.65
Total
Overall
Design
Sound
Battery
Features

Graphic comparison of AKG N90q Le and

Attribute category
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Third-party reviews

What customers like about AKG N90q Le?

  • Innovative 'TrueNote' auto-calibration that tailors sound to the individual's ear canal shape.
  • Highly effective Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that feels natural and non-intrusive.
  • Excellent build quality using premium materials like sheepskin leather and machined aluminum.
  • Impressive soundstage for a closed-back design, offering significant width and depth.
  • Highly customizable audio via physical rotary dials for real-time bass and treble adjustment.
  • Extensive accessory package including a hardshell power case, secondary battery pack, and multiple high-quality cables.

What customers dislike about AKG N90q Le?

  • Extremely high price point (MSRP ~$1,499) that many reviewers feel is not justified by performance alone.
  • Heavy physical weight (460g) can lead to neck fatigue or discomfort during long sessions.
  • Internal DAC quality is sometimes criticized as being inferior to the high-end drivers.
  • Certain DSP modes (like Surround) can introduce noticeable distortion or an artificial tonality.
  • Large earcups may be oversized for some users, causing the ear to touch the inner driver cover.
  • Absence of a clear battery life indicator, leading to unexpected shutdowns.

Expert reviews

S
stereophile.com
13/03/2017
AKG N90Q Noise-Cancelling Auto-Calibrating Over-Ear Headphones

The Stereophile review of the $1,499 AKG N90Q headphones highlights a groundbreaking, reference-class, over-ear design utilizing advanced Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and TruNote auto-calibration to tailor audio specifically to the user's ear anatomy. Key advantages include highly effective active noise cancellation (ANC), premium build quality with comfortable ear cups, and...Read more

T
trustedreviews.com
29/06/2015
AKG N90Q Review

The AKG N90Q headphones deliver exceptional, studio-grade audio with remarkable detail across all frequencies, featuring innovative TrueNote automatic calibration that significantly enhances sound intimacy and reveals subtle audio nuances. While the audio performance is flawless across various devices, the built-in stage control settings require tedious adjustments to find the ideal...Read more

H
hifichoice.com
21/11/2015
AKG N90Q Noise-Cancelling Headphones - Hi-Fi Choice

The Hi-Fi Choice review of the AKG N90Q headphones highlights a, luxury over-ear design featuring 52mm drivers, an internal DAC, and effective TruNote auto-calibration technology. Delivering a massive soundstage with low hiss, the headphones provide an impressive, emotionally intimate audio experience. While offering stellar sound, the main drawbacks noted are the very high price...Read more

H
headfonics.com
04/01/2016
AKG N90Q Review - Headfonics

The Headfonics review highlights the AKG N90Q as a feature-packed, Quincy Jones-branded headphone featuring advanced TruNote auto-calibration and a built-in USB DAC for highly customizable audio. Key pros include effective active noise cancellation, luxury comfort despite its 460g weight, and versatile, dynamic personalization. However, the review cites a disruptive "pop-and-boing"...Read more

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whathifi.com
18/12/2015
AKG N90Q review - What Hi-Fi?

The AKG N90Q is a beautifully crafted pair of high-end, closed-back headphones engineered in collaboration with legendary producer Quincy Jones. The review praises their exceptional build quality, luxurious leather and machined aluminum finishes, and outstanding long-term comfort despite weighing a substantial 460 grams. Sonically, they deliver a highly disciplined performance...Read more

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soundguys.com
21/07/2015
AKG N90Q Review - SoundGuys

The SoundGuys review of the AKG N90Q highlights these $1,499.95, Quincy Jones-designed, over-ear headphones as a premium, high-end option offering spectacular sound quality, TruNote auto-calibration, and excellent build quality. Despite a 9.2/10 rating, the review notes significant drawbacks including the high price, bulky design with heavy 52mm drivers, and the inability to operate...Read more

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reviewed.com
21/08/2015
AKG N90Q Headphones Review

The AKG N90Q over-ear headphones deliver exceptional, near-perfect sound quality designed for premium consumers and audio professionals alike. Approved by producer Quincy Jones, these bulkier headphones feature a striking gold-and-black design and stand out for their supreme long-wear comfort. Their core strength lies in integrated, high-end technologies. Specifically, the custom...Read more

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medium.com
17/05/2019
AKG N90Q: Exciting, but Flawed

The Medium review of the AKG N90Q characterizes the headphones as a premium, durable, and highly capable closed-back model, praising their exceptional build quality, effective active noise-canceling (ANC), and comfortable design suitable for long listening sessions. However, the analysis highlights significant flaws, specifically noting an impractical 40-inch cable, a constant...Read more

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majorhifi.com
30/01/2018
AKG N90Q Noise Cancelling Headphones Review - Major HiFi

The AKG N90Q is a high-end, luxury pair of noise-cancelling headphones inspired by Quincy Jones, designed to bring audiophile-grade sound quality into the active noise cancellation (ANC) market. Priced at $1499.99, it boasts a flashy black-and-gold aluminum build wrapped in premium sheep leather, offering an exceptionally natural and strong ANC performance that effectively targets...Read more

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techradar.com
15/09/2015
AKG N90Q review

The AKG N90Q is a luxurious set of over-ear, wired headphones developed in a high-profile collaboration with legendary music producer Quincy Jones. Priced at an astronomical $1,499, they feature a premium, eye-catching design crafted from leather, gold-painted aluminum accents, and polycarbonate sidearms with ten points of size adjustment. The headphones stand out for their...Read more

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hifiplus.com
14/03/2017
AKG Acoustics N90Q headphones - Hi-Fi+

The AKG Acoustics N90Q is a flagship, active closed-back headphone system engineered in collaboration with music legend Quincy Jones, retailing for £1,299.99. Designed as an all-in-one transportable rig, it uniquely integrates a built-in DAC (capped at 24-bit/96kHz precision), a built-in amplifier, and a sophisticated DSP tone-shaping system inside a hefty 460g chassis. Its standout...Read more

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computerbild.de
03/11/2015
AKG N90Q Headphones In-Depth Review", "AKG N90Q Headphones Hands-On Test

The AKG N90Q is a high-tech, luxury over-ear headphone developed in collaboration with music legend Quincy Jones. It stands out for its unique "TrueNote" calibration technology, which uses two built-in microphones in each ear cup to scan the user's ear anatomy and automatically adjust the sound profile. The device delivers an exceptionally clean, neutral, and distortion-free audio...Read more

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areadvd.de
01/10/2015
TEST: AKG N90Q LE – Quincy Jones Headphones with TruNote Calibration

The AREA DVD review awards the AKG N90Q LE high-end headphones its "Reference" status, praising its blend of traditional HiFi sound and innovative digital processing. Developed alongside music legend Quincy Jones and priced at an MSRP of 1,499 EUR, this closed-back model stands out for its exceptional acoustic performance. The reviewer notes that the massive 52mm drivers deliver...Read more

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stereo.de
12/2015
AKG N90Q - Test Results from AREA DVD", "AKG N90Q - Review Results by AREA DVD

The STEREO review of the AKG N90Q highlights these €1500, luxury over-ear headphones as a top-class acoustic performer featuring unique TruNote auto-calibration technology to customize sound to the user's ear. Sonically, the headphones are praised for their highly accurate, pristine sound reproduction, exceptional depth, and surprisingly comfortable fit despite a heavy 485-gram...Read more

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connect.de
14/03/2017
AKG N90Q Review", "AKG N90Q in the Test

The AKG N90Q is a high-end, closed-back noise-cancelling headphone tuned according to the preferences of legendary multi-Grammy winner Quincy Jones. The device stands out for its exceptional technical features, including a built-in DAC for direct PC connection and an auto-calibration system that uses internal microphones to tailor the sound filter to the user’s individual ear shape....Read more

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modernhifi.de
24/11/2016
AKG N90Q Review: Headphones with Auto-Calibration

The AKG N90Q is a feature-rich, high-end over-ear headphone designed in collaboration with legendary producer Quincy Jones, functioning as a fully equipped media center with an integrated USB-DAC, active noise cancellation (ANC), and "TrueNote" acoustic ear-calibration. Its primary strengths lie in its exceptional, studio-grade neutral sound quality, strong passive and active noise...Read more

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kopfhoerer.de
03/11/2016
AKG N90Q Gold review on kopfhoerer.de

The AKG N90Q Gold is a luxurious, high-end over-ear headphone priced at 1,500 Euro, developed in collaboration with legendary producer Quincy Jones. The reviewer praises it as the best-sounding headphone they have tested to date, outperforming premium competitors like the Beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro with its incredibly fine treble, precise and deep bass, and highly accurate spatial...Read more

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connect.de
06/09/2016
AKG N90Q headphones review", "Testing the AKG N90Q headphones

The AKG N90Q high-end closed-back headphones, co-developed with music legend Quincy Jones, deliver a dynamic, precise, and highly customizable sound signature. According to the connect review, the headphones feature advanced 52-millimeter dynamic drivers with a fine Japanese paper membrane and patent double-walled leather ear cups designed to eliminate internal acoustic reflections....Read more

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futurezone.at
29/02/2016
AKG N90Q Luxury Headphones: A 1,500-Euro Tangled Mess

AKG N90Q Luxury Headphones The AKG N90Q luxury headphones deliver an outstanding, balanced sound profile that avoids overemphasized bass, making them highly appealing to audio purists. Developed in partnership with music producer Quincy Jones, the headphones feature an innovative TruNote automatic calibration system that utilizes internal microphones to tailor the sound precisely to...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
15/06/2030
AKG N90Q: the world's first 'ear-correcting' headphones

The AKG N90Q is a high-end, closed-back headphone developed in collaboration with legendary music producer Quincy Jones and engineered by Harman's team to automatically adapt its sound output to the unique ear shape of individual listeners. Priced at a steep launch value of €1500, this ambitious device achieves "ear correction" acoustics by using a combination of inner microphones...Read more

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on-mag.fr
No date provided
AKG N90Q review: ultra-premium, ultra-active, and utterly addictive sound

The AKG N90Q is an active, ultra-high-end over-ear headphone designed in partnership with the legendary music producer Quincy Jones. The review highlights its distinctive, luxurious, and slightly flashy "bling-bling" aesthetic. Beyond its premium appearance, the headphone stands out by embedding sophisticated, cutting-edge onboard audio technology. Notably, it is celebrated as one...Read more

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homecinema-fr.com
17/01/2020
HCFR Review: AKG N90Q Headphones

The AKG N90Q review presents a mixed evaluation focused heavily on the functional trade-offs of its futuristic, integrated DAC and amplifier concept. A major pro of the headphones is the built-in calibration system, which effectively transforms a flat soundstage into a lively midrange and upper-midrange presentation. Additionally, the hardware-based equalization dial for adjusting...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
28/10/2015
Lab Test – AKG N90Q: The New Master of Active Noise Cancellation

This laboratory review by Les Numériques highlights the AKG N90Q as a ground-breaking set of headphones with class-leading performance. The review focuses heavily on the device's technical lab data, praising its active noise cancellation (ANC) capabilities that outperform key market leaders like Bose and Parrot. Testers recorded ANC reduction peaks reaching an impressive -25 dB,...Read more

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on-mag.fr
15/09/2016
AKG N90Q review: ultra-premium, ultra-active headphones that make you addicted to sound

The ON-mag review evaluates the AKG N90Q as an ultra-high-end, active noise-canceling headphone priced at €1,500. Created in collaboration with music producer Quincy Jones, the headphone stands out for its bold, luxurious gold-anodized design and exceptional, premium construction utilizing machined aluminum and dual-density memory foam ear cushions. The pros highlighted in the...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
29/10/2015
AKG N90Q Review: A Master of Sound by a Master of Music

The AKG N90Q is an exceptionally engineered, high-end closed-back headphone created in collaboration with music legend Quincy Jones. Acting as a technical showcase for the brand, it features a unique "auto-calibration" technology that maps the user's ear canal using acoustic sweeps to perfectly adapt the sound profile. The audio performance is phenomenally precise, delivering a...Read more

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dday.it
30/06/2015
AKG N90Q Preview: AKG is confident, this is the best headphone in the world

The AKG N90Q "by Quincy Jones" is a premium, over-ear headphone priced at 1,499 euros, engineered after three years of development and over a hundred prototypes. Its most notable innovation is the patented TruNote technology, which utilizes two built-in microphones in each ear cup to measure the user's ear anatomy and automatically apply acoustic correction filters in real-time. The...Read more

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dday.it
16/11/2015
Testing the AKG N90Q flagship headphones: dream or madness?

The AKG N90Q is a prestigious, high-end headphone priced at 1,499 euros and designed in collaboration with music legend Quincy Jones. On the positive side, it delivers an absolute studio-grade audio quality that uncovers immense detail and provides a neutral, highly precise, distortion-free musical experience. It is packed with cutting-edge technology, including an integrated DAC...Read more

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hifi.nl
02/07/2016
Review of the AKG N90Q: Go to the product viewer dialogue for this item.

The AKG N90Q review on HIFI.nl highlights this model as a crystal-clear, top-tier flagship headphone priced at a substantial fifteen hundred euros. While top-segment flagships usually favor classic designs, the N90Q opts for a modern, hip styling co-designed by Quincy Jones' daughter. The review outlines major pros, emphasizing its exceptional passive noise isolation which ranks...Read more

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