[777funk]

I have a new set on the way. I have used old ones and liked them. Are they similar?

 

[PurpleAngel]

Are your the old AKG K240 the 55-Ohm version or the even older K240 600-Ohm version?

 

[777funk]

Are your the old AKG K240 the 55-Ohm version or the even older K240 600-Ohm version?

No idea! They were owned by studios. I played bass through them and always thought they sounded good but at that point had no idea what they were (other than better than my old Sonys I was using at the time that I got free).

But if I were to guess, I'd think they were 5-10 years old at the time (early 2000s). So maybe 1990s units.

 

[PurpleAngel]

I would rate the older 600-Ohm version is better then the newer 55-Ohm version.

 

[777funk]

I now own both types and yes, the 600 ohm version sounds better. The frequency response is similar to my ears but maybe slightly more bass on the 600 ohms. Also the highs are more pleasing to the ear on the 600 ohm version. This is especially true on crisp vocals. The new 55ohm version sounds great until you hear the 600 ohm version. Then the 55 ohm sounds slightly harsh by comparison. Before the comparison, the 55 ohm sounded great to my ears (and still do, just not quite as good). I prefer the 240s to the Audio Technica M-50s. The bass extension is not anywhere near as low or 'rumbly' but everything is clear and balanced.

The 600 ohm phones do need more power to drive them to the same volume (which makes sense since they're 600 ohm load vs an easy to drive 55 ohm load). On my audio interface, it's one more click on the knob. On a phone, the 55 ohm is barely loud enough to be the normal medium loud level I like. In contrast, he 600 ohm is what I'd consider my quiet listening level... but it sounds great even with a phone just max volume is moderate to low volume with say earpods.

 

[Monsterzero]

Quite a few different headphones carrying the K240 moniker

https://www.head-fi.org/threads/hea...timate-solution.715478/page-456#post-13299270

 

[Audi5000]

very different. i've tested new ones at guitar center and didnt even like them compared to audio technica m20x's. i have a set of old 600 ohms i'm trying to refurbish. the foam inside completely disintegrated (after 25+ years)... but the driver and even ear pads are still in good condition. When i see ppl review the k240's negatively, i just have to believe they are reviewing the $69 'studio' and not the $149 'mk2', 'monitor', or even the old 600ohms. they were the Standard (for decades) in recording studio's across the country for being very neutral, clear, and comfortable.

 

[777funk]

Ok bought Austria 55 ohm studio and now with an apple to apples comparison, the Austria does sound better. I liked the Chinese ones until the comparison. I still like them but the highs are noticeably more cheap/harsh with the China units.