AKG K 181 DJ

AKG's K181-DJ Headphones may not be the most obvious candidate when looking for a new set of pro-grade DJ cans, but having lasted on the market for quite some time now, it's obvious that they are still proving a popular choice. AKG's reputation is based on its excellent studio headphones and microphones, and these headphones aim to bring that level of sound quality to the DJ booth in a more robust shell designed for the rigours of road use.

More compact and portable than the chunky Pioneer HD1000, they are nonetheless a lot heavier to wear than the light-but-strong Sennheiser HD-25 which is also a very popular choice at this price point. They fold up fairly small for transport and come supplied with a pouch to protect the plastic from rubbing and scratches. Build quality is very solid and robust, joints and hinges feel 'over-engineered' (that's a good thing!) although after about three years of use despite them still being perfect, cracks started to appear on stress points further up the headband.

Speaking of the headband, whilst ergonomically speaking it is very good, people with larger heads or glasses-wearers may well find prolonged periods with the cups on both ears somewhat uncomfortable. I found I had to 'pre-stretch' the headphones for a day or two before I could wear them for more than ten minutes without my ears going numb.

Sound quality is superb as you would expect from AKG. Tonnes of volume, more than you will ever need in the loudest of clubs. Tight, rich bass and loads of detail when you want to wear them fully over your ears, outside noise is very well blocked out. If you want to wear them round your neck, crank the volume and it's almost like having another booth monitor perched on each shoulder!

AKG guarantee these headphones for a respectable two years, and mine have lasted considerably longer. Purchased in 2003 they have travelled all over Europe, for club DJing and well as day to day listening when I've been on holiday, and from time to time they double as production headphones when I'm on the move or working late. After a couple of years, the cable went, this proved quite tricky to replace and not cheap as the mini-xlr connector used; which although very snazzy is very difficult to find apart from online, and quite expensive. Also I have taken the precaution of strengthening parts of the headband with gaffer-tape as hairline cracks are starting to appear in the weak spots - but nearly a decade after purchase, I don't think that is much to complain about considering the sound is as pure and strong as when they were brand new.

If you're in the market for new headphones these are certainly worth trying out. I'd definitely buy another pair when they eventually give up the struggle. However, try before you buy if you have a large head.