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Head-to-head · Best Open-back Headphones For Mixing

AKG K-712 Pro vs Sennheiser HD 800 S

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Sennheiser HD 800 S comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.2 vs 4.1). The gap is mostly about audiophiles with high-end setups seeking clarity — read the strengths below before deciding.

AKG K-712 Pro
Ranked #4 in Best Open-back Headphones For Mixing
AKG K-712 Pro
8 sources3 derived$469.99as of Sep 25

The AKG K712 Pro stands out for its exceptional soundstage and neutral tonal balance, making it well-suited for professional mixing and mastering tasks. Reviewers note its wide, open audio presentation and ability to reveal subtle details in music. However, the headphones suffer from an overly emphasized bass region that can muddy low frequencies and a treble response that lacks brightness and energy. While comfortable for extended use and built to last, these headphones may not satisfy those seeking a more dynamic or vivid sound signature.

Strengths
  • — Delivers wide, open, and immersive soundstage ideal for mixing and critical listening
  • — Features transparent neutral tonal balance suitable for professional audio work
  • — Includes comfortable self-adjusting headband and soft replaceable velour ear pads for long listening sessions
Watch-outs
  • — Bass is overly accentuated in the 200-300Hz region, leading to a warm and hazy sound
  • — Treble lacks sparkle and vibrance, with a dip around 9-10kHz that may feel veiled or less energetic
$469.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Sennheiser HD 800 S
Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Open-back Headphones For Mixing
Sennheiser HD 800 S
10 sources3 derived

The Sennheiser HD 800 S delivers outstanding detail and clarity, with an expansive soundstage that sets it apart from competitors. Reviewers noted its comfortable open-back design and minimal clamp force, though the headphones require dedicated amplification to reach their full potential. The build quality is refined with a sleek dichromatic aesthetic, though some reviewers expressed concerns about the lightweight plastic construction. This headphone appeals to audiophiles seeking premium sound reproduction and is best suited for users with high-end audio setups.

Strengths
  • — Exceptional detail and clarity in audio reproduction
  • — Impressive soundstage with wide stereo separation
  • — Comfortable open-back design with minimal clamp force
Watch-outs
  • — Very lightweight construction may feel less durable
  • — High price point
Check Price on AmazonFull review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

AKG K-712 Pro

The AKG K-712 Pro delivers a wide soundstage and neutral balance, but its bass emphasis and lack of treble sparkle make it less appealing than the Focal Clear MG Pro, which offers smoother mids and better clarity.

Sennheiser HD 800 S

The HD 800 S provides exceptional clarity and expansive soundstage, outperforming the HD 490 Pro in detail and the HD 650 in openness. While it's more expensive and lighter than the Audeze LCD-X, it lacks the planar magnetic drivers that give the LCD-X its edge in resolution and avoids the bass over-emphasis found in the K-712 Pro.

Specs side-by-side

SpecAKG K-712 ProSennheiser HD 800 S
DesignOpen back, Over-earOpen-back, Over-ear
Impedance62 Ohm300 Ohms
Connectormini XLR4.4mm (balanced) and 6.35mm (unbalanced) jack plugs
Sensitivity105 dB SPL/V @ 1 kHz102 dB (1 V)
Frequency Response10 Hz – 39800 Hz4 Hz - 51,000 Hz
Cable3m straight cable, 3m coiled cableSpecially tuned symmetrical cable
Weight235 g330 g
DriverOpen56mm Ring Radiator dynamic transducer
← See the full ranking of best open-back headphones for mixing