When comparing AKG K81 DJ vs Bose SoundSport In Ear, the Slant community recommends Bose SoundSport In Ear for most people. In the question“What are the best headphones?” Bose SoundSport In Ear is ranked 9th while AKG K81 DJ is ranked 68th. The most important reason people chose Bose SoundSport In Ear is:
Bass output is very good. It has good power yet at the same time is fast and punchy. It does not bloat the sound at all. The highs and mids are able to deliver a good level of detail that makes the sound quite lively. These will work best for bassy tracks, though rock, jazz, classical and pop will still sound enjoyable.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Full bass with adequate levels of mids and highs
Despite the compact size. the bass is full, has great impact, deep extension yet is not loose. The low end also has a natural quality to it that makes these headphones great for music that is performed using real instruments.
The mids are slightly recessed, but also have a natural tone. The highs are the most recessed or rolled-off, but the detail and airiness of the music is not totally absent. This quality helps give the sound a smooth and pleasing tonality.
Pro Ear cups can swivel facing outwards
The K81 can be used “DJ style”, wherein only one ear cup is in contact with the head. The cups have a smooth swivel action so they can be rotated to face outwards. A user can choose to hold one ear cup up to his or her ear while flipping switches or turning knobs on the mix board with the other hand.
Pro Easy to travel with
While these are already quite compact, the ear cups can be folded into the headband to reduce their size even further. This makes them easy to stuff inside a bag and travel with.
Pro Comfortable to wear even with extended use
The clamping force is not too much at all, so acceptable levels of pressure will be applied on the ears. Also, the ear pads are thick with ample pleather padding on the surface. This combination provides adequate cushioning between the ear cups and sides of the head.
Pro Can fit a wide range of head sizes
The aluminum headband itself has some good flex. Combined with the sliding mechanism of the ear cups, K81 can be adjusted to fit a wide range of head sizes. Also notable are the numbered steps on each side of the headband, which allow for accurate and consistent ear cup positioning.
Pro Feels high quality
Although it's mostly made of plastic, the materials don't feel cheap at all. Aside from feeling sturdy, the plastics have a smooth rubber coating which makes them feel premium to the touch. Also, the headband is made out of aluminum which is significantly more durable than an all plastic one.
Pro Great bass reproduction along with good detail and smoothness to the highs and mids
Bass output is very good. It has good power yet at the same time is fast and punchy. It does not bloat the sound at all. The highs and mids are able to deliver a good level of detail that makes the sound quite lively. These will work best for bassy tracks, though rock, jazz, classical and pop will still sound enjoyable.
Pro You have the option a short or long cable
In stock form, these headphones have a relatively short cable. However, Bose includes an extension cable for extra reach. This can help to minimize the wire length that you have to deal with when going for a run or exercising.
Pro Won't easily get damaged by splashes of liquid
The earbuds can resist small splashes of liquid or sweat. The hydrophobic cloth material wrapped around the headphones helps to minimize issues relating to moisture.
Pro Won't fall off the ears easily
The specially designed Stay Hear ear tips have a wing design which helps to add grip to the earpieces when worn. This helps to ensure that the headphones will not easily get dislodged when on the move.
Pro Can be worn for long periods with little to no discomfort
The ear tips are very soft and flexible. Combined with the ear bud design that does not jam into your ear canal, these are a joy to use in terms of comfort, even for extended periods.
Cons
Con On-ear design can still be uncomfortable
While the ear pads are thick and give a lot of cushioning, some may still find this to be uncomfortable. Being on-ear, some pressure is applied onto the ears.Those who are sensitive to this may still feel some discomfort, especially when worn for several hours straight.
Con Highs may sound too recessed
People who prefer their music with sparkly highs and utmost clarity likely won't find these headphones to be a good listen.
Con Lengthy cable can be a hassle
The cable is 2.5m which is fairly long. Since it is not detachable and the cable tends to tangle quite easily, it may cause some problems with regular home use or when taking these headphones on the go.
Con Separate variants for iOS/Android
Do make sure to buy the proper variant for your device. The remote will not function optimally if the headphones are used with a different platform.
Con Has poor noise isolation
You'll still be able to clearly hear your surroundings with these on. If you want to focus on your music while using these, then the noise that mixes with your music can get quite distracting.