When comparing AKG K81 DJ vs Marshall Mode, the Slant community recommends Marshall Mode for most people. In the question“What are the best headphones?” Marshall Mode is ranked 33rd while AKG K81 DJ is ranked 68th. The most important reason people chose Marshall Mode is:
While the Marshall Mode does not offer a lot of features or top-notch build quality, it makes up for it with great sound quality. The bass has a slight emphasis which gives the sound good power and punch. The mids sound natural and slightly forward, while the highs are able to deliver a good level of detail without getting harsh. These earphones sound best for rock music, but can also deliver great low-end performance for hip-hop music and similar genres, and crisp highs for those who love classical music.
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 sound for the price
While the Marshall Mode does not offer a lot of features or top-notch build quality, it makes up for it with great sound quality. The bass has a slight emphasis which gives the sound good power and punch. The mids sound natural and slightly forward, while the highs are able to deliver a good level of detail without getting harsh. These earphones sound best for rock music, but can also deliver great low-end performance for hip-hop music and similar genres, and crisp highs for those who love classical music.
Pro Lightweight and comfortable
These earphones won’t cause comfort issues, even when worn for for several hours straight.. The earpieces are light so they don’t put a lot of weight in the ears.
Pro Many ear tips to choose from
With the Marshall Mode, you’ll be able to get a good fit and seal in your ears. You get 4 pairs of ear tips in different sizes to choose from. The ear tips are also of decent quality, as they are not too squishy, so they should sit well in the ears and last a reasonable period of time as well.
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 Single button remote
Controlling smartphone and music functions is limited with the Mode’s inline remote. Only a single button is present, so you can only answer or end calls, play and pause music as well as skip tracks. You can’t control volume nor can you go to previous track.