When comparing AKG K391 NC vs Audio Technica ATH-ANC33is, the Slant community recommends AKG K391 NC for most people. In the question“What are the best in-ear headphones with active noise cancelling?” AKG K391 NC is ranked 2nd while Audio Technica ATH-ANC33is is ranked 3rd. The most important reason people chose AKG K391 NC is:
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.
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 Comply foam tips are included
You can get great passive noise isolation with these headphones. You get a pair of Comply foam ear tips which are very comfortable in the ear and passively block noise well. This complements active noise cancelling well, and helps to minimize the noise that you hear.
Pro Very good noise cancelling performance for budget in-ear headphones
These are great if you want good noise cancelling without spending a lot on your headphones. The noise cancelling feature can filter out a good amount of mid to high frequency noise. Minimal levels of low-pitched noise or sudden bursts of volume like laughter may still mix in with your music though.
Pro Great sounding highs
With the ATH-ANC33is, you’ll be able to get a lot of detail from your music. The sound signature is focused on the highs so cymbal crashes, high pitched strings and female vocals will sound clean and detailed, yet do not get harsh.
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 Noise cancelling module is bulky
The noise cancelling can make using these headphones a hassle. The module is bulky and quite heavy, so it can be distracting, especially if you are using the ANC33is while on the move.
Con Feels cheap and flimsy
You may get the impression that these headphones won’t last long. The plastics feel cheap and flimsy, the cable is quite thin, and you’ll hear rattles from the noise cancelling module.
Con Bass and mids may sound lean
You won’t be able to get a lot of thump and warmth from these headphones. While the highs sound great, the bass and mids are quite recessed, which can give the sound a thin feel.