Sony WH-1000XM2 vs AKG K171 MKII vs ifrogz Caliber Vanguard: 25 facts in comparison
1. highest frequency
The highest frequency at which device produces audio. The higher the high-frequency response, the clearer and crispier the treble.
40000Hz
Sony MDR-Z1R: 120000Hz
26000Hz
20000Hz
2. lowest frequency
The lowest frequency at which the device produces audio. The lower the low-frequency response, the stronger and juicier the bass.
4Hz
Sony MH1CBLK: 1Hz
18Hz
20Hz
3. has sound isolation/passive noise reduction
The device sits tightly in place, creating an acoustic seal which reduces background noise and prevents your music from leaking out.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
45% have it
4. impedance
Impedance is the device’s electrical resistance to the current being pushed through it. The lower the impedance, the easier it is to get higher volume and requires less power.
46 Ohms
Flips Solo 2 Social: 4 Ohms
55 Ohms
32 Ohms
5. has a neodymium magnet
Devices with neodymium magnets are lighter and more powerful than those which use ferrite magnets. They also have more bass and clear high notes.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
35% have it
6. no battery needed
This device works without batteries. It weighs less and you don't have to worry about recharging or replacing the battery.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
69% have it
7. has a detachable cable
With a detachable cable you can use alternative cables, and if the cable is pulled it will pop out instead of breaking.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
39% have it
8. can be folded
Folding devices are good for transporting as they take up less space in your bag.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
31% have it
9. can be used as a headset
A headset is one headphone or pair with a built-in microphone. Headsets can be used for applications which require communication i.e. Skype, games with voice chat, mobile phones etc.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
41% have it
10. has stereo speakers
Devices with stereo speakers deliver sound from independent channels on both left and right sides, creating a richer sound and a better experience.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
76% have it
11. driver unit size
The driver unit is the component that produces sound in the device. Bigger drivers are more powerful and can produce better bass.
39.8mm
Audeze LCD2 Classic: 106mm
30mm
40mm
12. Can be used wirelessly
Wireless devices allow users more freedom of movement.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
21% have it
13. has an over-the-ear form
Comfortable full-size form with earcups that fully enclose your ears. This model is loved for its increased sound isolation and the fact that it won't leak sound to your neighbors. It offers potential for maximum bass and loudness levels.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
40% have it
14. has active noise canceling/noise reduction
This type of device allows you to listen at lower volume levels, causing less ear fatigue as you don't have to crank up the volume to overcome background noise. Ideal for plane rides and morning commutes.
There is a control panel on the device body, so you can easily access the volume control or remote without having to interact with a cable or another device it's connected to.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
17% have it
16. travel bag is included
The device comes with its own special case or pouch, which is useful for safe transportation.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
63% have it
17. has a straight plug
A straight plug is better when the jack is on the top or bottom of your player.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
50% have it
18. has included ear pads
Allows you to change ear pads without buying new ones.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
42% have it
19. has an L-shaped plug
An L-shaped plug is better if the jack is on the left or right side of the device, so that the cable isn't bent, and is less likely to break when the device is in your pocket.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
31% have it
20. has a 3.5mm male connector
A standard 3.5mm male connector is suitable for use with all MP3 players and computer sound cards.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
83% have it
21. cable length
A long cable ensures more freedom of movement.
1.5m
Pioneer SE-A1000: 6m
3m
2m
22. has an on-ear form
This device comfortably rests on top of your outer ears. As it doesn't block out everything from the outside world, it's preferred in places like office environments and recommended for outdoor activities.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
23% have it
23. has a rechargeable battery
The battery can be recharged and used over again.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
14% have it
24. has a coiled cord
A coiled cord typically offers more flexibility as it can be extended, and taken outside for example.
Sony WH-1000XM2
AKG K171 MKII
ifrogz Caliber Vanguard
7% have it
25. supports Bluetooth pairing using NFC
Device supports fast Bluetooth pairing using NFC so it can communicate with other devices over Bluetooth. You can fastly pair devices without entering a code by simply holding one device next to the device with which it is to be paired.