AKG K81 DJ vs JLab JBuds EPIC

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sound quality is good enough for enjoying a wide variety of music genres. This comes with the advantage of having sport-related features like special tips for improved fit as well as splash resistance.

The low end frequencies are what stand out from the sound signature. Bass goes deep and is pretty forward too, so you can clearly hear and experience the thump from your music.

The highs are also crisp and airy, giving a lot of detail. This combination results in these headphones having a fun sound.

There is a one-button remote which allows you to play/pause tracks as well as answer/end calls. This can be very convenient when used on the go.

Little rings called "Cush Fins" wrap around the earpieces, and give extra grip, and prevent the pieces from falling out. Also, these Cush Fins are quite soft and flexible so they do not have too much of a negative effect to comfort.

There is a one-button remote which allows you to play/pause tracks as well as answer/end calls. This can be very convenient when used on the go.

A fairly large, zip up carrying case comes included and should give these extra protection when taken on the go. You can just chuck this case into your bag without worrying about your headphones getting damaged.