AKG K271 MKII ($180)
The latest AKG model (K272) will run you about $300, but the K271’s are still an amazing pickup for under $200. The self-adjusting headband cover cradles your head while the XXL transducers help create a smooth, rich sound. Other cool perks include a switch in the headband that’ll mute the audio when you take off the phones, and a high-noise attenuation, which means ambient noise won’t distract you from your Agatha Christie books on tape. Oh Miss Marple — you’re so droll!
