In recent years AKG have been one of the most awarded manufacturers of headphones.
As well as making high-end reference headphones and noise cancelling designs, they have some of the most popular compact headphones available today. Following the trend of portability in today’s digital world, AKG have released two new models – the Y40 and the Bluetooth enabled Y45BT.
The Y40 is a lightweight design; both extremely durable and built for comfort. One thing that sings at this price point is the amazing build quality. Solid, machined edges combined with excellent attention to detail results in a real quality-feel product.
These headphones are designed for use with today’s latest portable devices. The detachable cable comes complete with a 3-button remote to control all your iOS devices. It also has basic control and mic’ functionality for Android, making it truly universal.
We tested our pair using a Samsung Galaxy S5 smartphone and a copy of Ryan Adams – Gold in 24bit/96kHz FLAC. When the layers of the tracks build up, each instrument is presented with clarity and separation. Harmonica, double tracking on guitar and vocals can all be picked out with amazing detail. When the music slows to just the singer and his guitar everything become transparent – even highlighting out the sound of his hand sliding over the frets. They seem suited to both heavy, layered music and more delicate sounds too. They provide a fantastic upgrade to the award-winning K range of recent years.
This is made possible with the dual 40mm drivers, giving the quality AKG signature sound you would expect from this latest range of headphones. All delivered in a choice of three stylish colours.
AKG’s latest Bluetooth headphones – the Y45BT
AKG have also added a wireless option to their compact over-ear range. The Y45BT uses Bluetooth to receive music from smartphones, tablets or any other compatible device. In addition to this, they also benefit from NFC (Near Field Communication) to connect to your player. Simply touch the two devices together to instantly pair. Nothing could be simpler.
These headphones are capable of 8 hours playback and come bundled with a USB lead for charge. We found combining this lead with a USB phone charger resulted in a very quick charge. When the battery runs out of juice just pop in the 3.5mm cable, which also comes bundled, to get unlimited passive playback.
Located on the side of the headphones is a range of easy-to-use controls. Small and ergonomically positioned, we found it very easy to adjust volume and answer calls without taking the phone out of your pocket. The advantage of AKG’s natural sound means they are well suited to voices, ideal for phone calls. The in-built mic seemed the perfect sensitivity to pick up the users voice when talking on calls.
Much like the AKG Y40, this model features a closed-back design. The improved build quality over previous models makes for even better noise isolation – keeping outside noise out, and your music where it belongs. AKG’s Y45BT are powerful and intense headphones with the AKG signature sound that has been developed from 60 years of expertise in the field.
Trying out the easy-to-use Bluetooth wireless connection, we were very pleased with the quality of the sound. Even though it didn’t sound quite as punchy as wiring them up with the supplied cable, the wireless option was surprisingly adept at producing great clarity and dynamics for the price.
From unrivalled sound quality, to an impressive and durable build, this new range of headphones from AKG is certain to be a smash-hit.
Click here to find out more about the AKG Y45BT and the AKG Y40 headphones.
I’ve been looking for some decent bluetooth headphones for ages. Thanks for sharing this the Y45BT looks great, I might get that one.