When comparing AKG K391 NC vs Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2, the Slant community recommends Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 for most people. In the question“What are the best headphones?” Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 is ranked 29th while AKG K391 NC is ranked 61st. The most important reason people chose Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 is:
With the BackBeat Pro 2, you get powerful yet clear sound that is comparable to higher end models but at a noticeably more affordable price. Wireless range and stability is quite good and the noise cancelling, while not the best, can reduce a good amount of external noise.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Good accessory bundle
The accessories included are all very useful. You get two 3.5mm headphone cables, a USB charging cable, silicone ear tips, a travel pouch and an airplane adapter.
Pro The headphone cable can be detached from the control module
You can easily replace the 3.5mm cable should it get damaged. You can detach the 3.5mm cable from the control module which is very convenient. Other noise cancelling modules have fixed cables, so you’ll have to replace the headphones should the cable get damaged.
Pro Integrated microphone
You can take calls with these headphones on. A microphone is integrated into the remote which makes answering calls fast and convenient.
Pro Decent active noise cancelling
A good amount of noise will be blocked from mixing in with your music. Loud, low-pitched sounds may still be clearly heard though
Pro Compact noise cancelling module
You aren’t likely to have issues using these on the go. Most active noise cancelling in-ear headphones have large control modules, while the K391NC has a fairly compact and light module. You can easily use these headphones while walking and comfortably enjoy active noise cancelling with your music.
Pro Fairly detailed and rich sound
The highs are quite detailed, yet do not get harsh. The mids are slightly forward, so vocals and instruments can easily be heard. The bass is not very powerful but is tight, so you’ll get decent punch from your music.
Pro Good sound reproduction, wireless signal stability and decent noise-canceling for the price
With the BackBeat Pro 2, you get powerful yet clear sound that is comparable to higher end models but at a noticeably more affordable price. Wireless range and stability is quite good and the noise cancelling, while not the best, can reduce a good amount of external noise.
Pro Decent noise cancelling
While the active noise canceling is not the best, it is able to reduce a good amount of noise from your surroundings. Loud engine sounds or high pitched noise may still mix in with your music though.
Pro Clear and powerful sound
The BackBeat Pro 2’s mids and treble are not forward, yet sound clear and neutral. You may hear a bit of sharpness in the higher frequencies, but overall you’ll get a pleasant listening experience with great details from your music.
The low-end is quite emphasized, so you’ll get a lot of thump from bass hits. Bass lovers will likely find these headphones to be up their alley.
Pro Music automatically pauses when taking the headphones off
You won’t need to press a button on the headphones or on your source device to pause the music when you need to remove the BackBeat Pro 2. There are sensors inside the headphones that detect this motion, so the music is automatically paused, and then resumed when you put the headphones back on.
Pro Open-listening mode
Listen to the environment via a microphone without taking off the headphones.
Pro Wired or wireless functionality
These headphones have Bluetooth connectivity for wireless convenience, but you can also switch to 3.5mm wired mode if the battery runs out and you cannot charge right away.
Pro Good wireless range and stability
You’ll be able to hear audio even if you are around 100 feet away from your source device, provided there is a clear line of sight. Signal quality is also pretty good with minimal music cuts and drops.
Pro Very good battery life
These headphones can last up to 24 hours of playback from a full charge, and this with moderate volumes in wireless mode with noise cancelling activated. This is very good battery life, considering other wireless headphones at the price range only have around half the battery life on average.
Cons
Con Limited inline controls
The inline remote only allows you to play, pause, and skip tracks. You can’t control volume levels though.
Con Heavy
These headphones may put some strain on your head and neck due to these being quite heavy, coming in at almost 300 grams.
Con Bulky for traveling
These headphones may not be ideal for on-the-go use, as they are large, full-sized headphones that do not fold down to a compact size.
