2021 has rather quickly become the year of the “affordable headphone” with a number of excellent models from HiFiMan, Audio-Technica, Grado Labs, and now KRK Systems. It’s hard to find something decent below $100 and when you do — it’s usually a thing to buy more than one pair. The KRK KNS 6402 headphones are priced at $99 USD and we have a pair already on its way for review.
The KRK KNS 6402 headphones provide an accurate listening experience in a cost-effective and highly durable package that’s perfect for a variety of uses. The closed-back, circumaural (“around the ear”) design provides up to 26 dBA of isolation, which significantly reduces headphone “bleed” into the microphones when recording.
Their isolation performance also lets you focus on the music, without distraction from external sounds. With a maximum SPL of 122 dB, they’re capable of providing all the level you’ll ever need while remaining clear and detailed sounding, with very low distortion.
The KRK KNS 6402 have a sensitivity rating of 95 dB (32 ohms) and are very likely tuned as a studio headphone with a neutral tonal balance. It will be interesting to compare them to a number of different headphones in the same price range with a mixture of source devices and Dongle DACs.
KNS 6402 Features
- Wide frequency response for detailed sound quality across the entire audible frequency spectrum.
- Impact resistant plastic construction for light weight and durability.
- Comfortable acoustic cellular foam pads with leatherette covers provide comfort over long listening sessions.
- 122 dB Max Peak SPL, so they effortlessly provide all the volume level you’ll ever need.
- Excellent ambient noise isolation means they won’t bleed into the mics when recording, and you won’t be disturbed by external sounds while listening.
- Excellent dynamic range with consistent low-distortion performance.
- Self-aligning yoke system ensures the best possible fit.
- Replaceable cable, head and ear cushions to insure long life.
- Accessories include a connection cable with screw-in adapter (fitted), protective soft bag, anti-microbial cleaning cloth, and user manual.
Step-up Model
KRK also announced step-up headphones, model KNS 8402, for $149. The extra cost appears to mostly improve comfort and convenience. Sound quality differences could be nearly indistinguishable since both headphones utilize the same transducer. However, the KNS 8402 does edge out a few rounds on the specification sheet.
Comparison
| KNS 6402 | KNS 8402 | |
| MSRP | $99 | $149 |
| Configuration | Closed Back, Circumaural | Closed Back, Circumaural |
| System Type | Dynamic Headphones | Dynamic Headphones |
| Cable | 2.5 M, (8.2 FT), 99.99% OFC Detachable | 2.5 M, (8.2 FT), 99.99% OFC Detachable |
| Ear Cushion Type | Acoustic Cellular Foam | Acoustic Memory Foam |
| Headpad Finish | Leatherette | Premium Leatherette |
| Nominal Headband Pressure | 4N (Based on Average Head Size) | 4N (Based on Average Head Size) |
| Ambient Noise Isolation | Up to 26 dBA | Up to 30 dBA |
| Transducer | 40mm Neodymium | 40mm Neodymium |
| Nominal Impedance | 36 ohms | 36 ohms |
| Frequency Response | 10Hz – 22kHz | 5Hz – 23kHz |
| Sensitivity (1MW) | 95 dB SPL | 97 dB SPL |
| Calculated Max SPL | 122 dB SPL | 124 dB SPL |
| Connector | Gold-Plated Stereo 1/8″ (3.5mm) | Gold-Plated Stereo 1/8″ (3.5mm) |
| Volume Control | N/A | Detachable/Replaceable Low-Profile Inline HQ Control |
| Finish | Black Impact Resistant Plastic | Black Impact Resistant Plastic |
| Dimensions | 3.7″ (94mm) X 10.5″ (268mm) X 9.6″ (245mm) | 3.7″ (94mm) X 10.5″ (268mm) X 9.6″ (245mm) |
| Weight | 0.44 lb (0.202 kg) | 0.54 lb (0.247 kg) |
Price & Availability
- KRK KNS 6402 headphones are available now for $99 at Amazon.
- KRK KNS 8402 headphones are available now for $149 at Amazon.
