Questions about the AKG K701

[elbrickodaviso]

I have the opportunity to buy these for 280 bucks, free priority shipping from an authorized dealer that tacks an extra year onto the warranty.

2 questions:

Is this a deal that I should definitely pick up?

and

Will an RSA Hornet be able to power them decently? The only other amp I have is a PA2V2 and the Hornet should be on its way soon, but that's all I'll have and will be able to afford for a good while. Anyone have any experience amping these with the Hornet? My source is an ipod with an ALO cryo dock, until I can afford a good USB-powered DAC to work with my Hornet.

Thanks

edit: If it makes a difference, my taste in music ranges all the way from ambient to the extremely heavy. None of my music is bass-heavy though, another reason I figured these are my best bet.

 

[PYROphonez]

I believe the company northern sound and light has them for $244 (or at least used to). E-mail them to get a price update.
Here's a link to the AKG page. Scroll down a bit to get to the K701's.

 

[feifan]

If price is an important factor and $280 is what you're willing to spend, then you should probably take a really close look at the HD600/650 and other makes as well. If you could squeeze that wallet a little more, say $50-100, for ca. $380 you could get yourself something really nice. I guess the point is to not be overly swayed by a low price since raising the ceiling a little more may mean a huge difference in quality and satisfaction. One rule of thumb is: When you have an urge to buy, force yourself to wait at least 24 hours. In that time, research other options. If the wait means missing out on a "deal," you're still better off since, in the long run, patience will mean that sound decisions will far outnumber poor ones.

 

[elbrickodaviso]

Quote:

Originally Posted by feifan /img/forum/go_quote.gif If price is an important factor and $280 is what you're willing to spend, then you should probably take a really close look at the HD600/650 and other makes as well. If you could squeeze that wallet a little more, say $50-100, for ca. $380 you could get yourself something really nice. I guess the point is to not be overly swayed by a low price since raising the ceiling a little more may mean a huge difference in quality and satisfaction. One rule of thumb is: When you have an urge to buy, force yourself to wait at least 24 hours. In that time, research other options. If the wait means missing out on a "deal," you're still better off since, in the long run, patience will mean that sound decisions will far outnumber poor ones.

Thank you for the good advice. I have been researching for a good while, and am learning a lot about what I like when it comes to headphones. I can just about guarantee that I will like the K701's sound better than any Sennheiser, based on the hours of reading I've done (and the fact that I own HD595s). These are THE cans I want, I'm just making sure they are a good deal in general, and that my amp can handle them.

Should I give Ray Samuels a call so that I can snatch these headphones up? lol.

 

[feifan]

Quote:

Originally Posted by elbrickodaviso /img/forum/go_quote.gif Thank you for the good advice. I have been researching for a good while, and am learning a lot about what I like when it comes to headphones. I can just about guarantee that I will like the K701's sound better than any Sennheiser, based on the hours of reading I've done (and the fact that I own HD595s). These are THE cans I want, I'm just making sure they are a good deal in general, and that my amp can handle them. Should I give Ray Samuels a call so that I can snatch these headphones up? lol.

The price is good -- among the lowest I've seen advertised. If it's from Ray, then you're dealing with a solid seller. The free S/H and extra year warranty sounds good, too. Did you check the link provided by PYROphonez? The price may be even lower there, but with S/H, you may end up paying the same. You sound pretty sure and this isn't a snap decision so all signs are a go. I have the K-701 and would never part with it.

 

[Morph201]

The hornet at high gain will be able to drive them. Btw, even stock, they sound A LOT better than Senns!

 

[dw6928]

broad statement there Morph. which Senns?

 

[sonic32]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Morph201 /img/forum/go_quote.gif The hornet at high gain will be able to drive them. Btw, even stock, they sound A LOT better than Senns!

I'm not here to defend the HD-650's or K701's but having owned both I would say it is a matter of preference in deciding between the two. One is not clearly better than the other, just different. You should at least qualify your statements as opinion.

 

[HearMe]

I say enjoy the process and your purchase. Post the outcome OK!

 

[Morph201]

Quote:

Originally Posted by sonic32 /img/forum/go_quote.gif I'm not here to defend the HD-650's or K701's but having owned both I would say it is a matter of preference in deciding between the two. One is not clearly better than the other, just different. You should at least qualify your statements as opinion.

My word is law! It's better!

 

[Morph201]

Quote:

Originally Posted by dw6928 /img/forum/go_quote.gif broad statement there Morph. which Senns?

The one that's been their flagship for a decade or so....

Hehe, I'm simply going by the fact that HD650s NEED a recable (along with a well built rig, of course) to sound their best. The K701s, stock, sound very detailed, airy and wide soundstage.... those are just the tip of the iceberg...

I'm sure, a bunch will disagree, but I'm RIGHT!

 

[theBigD]

love the sound and soundstage! akg 701 is best headphone ive ever heard! too bad akg customer service is so poor. if it breaks and you live in usa, be prepared for long wait for help. ive been waiting 5 weeks now.

 

[Morph201]

That's insane! 5 weeks?!?! Whats the hold up? So far I've only dealt with Sennheiser CS and they treat you like a king, at least..

 

[elbrickodaviso]

I'm so excited. I think they've already shipped my K701s! Sadly I won't be able to properly drive them until the Hornet gets here, but that could be quick too, seeing that Ray got all the Hornets on Friday. Maybe mine will be coming soon

Both need the 300 hours of burn-in, and I am freakin' stoked to get them and start both. Hopefully I learn a lot in the process

. I will definitely let those who are interested know how I feel about them afterwards.

Anyone have a suggestion for a USB-powered DAC? I want my computer to be my main source once I have enough money to get something decent. Until then, my only source for the K701s will be the iPod + Hornet through my cryo dock.

 

[Morph201]

maybe shoot for a microDAC? Preferably used in good condition!