Head-to-head comparison
AKG K371 vs Boya BY-M1 Lavalier
Two of the equipment tools podcasters reach for. Here's how they differ on pricing, features, audience, and the trade-offs that actually matter day-to-day.
At a glance
The honest trade-offs
AKG K371
Pros
- Tuned close to Harman target response
- Three detachable cables included
- Folds flat for travel
Watch-outs
- Headband padding feels thin
- Earpads warm on long sessions
- More plastic build than DT 770
Boya BY-M1 Lavalier
Pros
- Works with phones, DSLRs, and laptops
- Six-meter cord allows real range
- Includes windscreen out of the box
Watch-outs
- Omnidirectional grabs every room sound
- Wired only — no wireless option
- Cheap connector can develop crackle
Which one should you pick?
Pick AKG K371 if
You’re building around . The AKG K371 is the closed-back tuned to the Harman target response — a benchmark for what 'neutral' headphones should sound like. MSRP $149, often available cheaper.
Pick Boya BY-M1 Lavalier if
You’re building around . The budget lavalier that's launched a thousand YouTube channels. Six-meter cord, omnidirectional, works with phones, DSLRs, and computers via a switch on the body.
Also worth comparing
Or see all AKG K371 alternatives.
Frequently asked
What does AKG K371 do better than Boya BY-M1 Lavalier?
AKG K371's standout is "Tuned close to Harman target response". Boya BY-M1 Lavalier doesn't make that promise — it leans into "Works with phones, DSLRs, and laptops" instead. If the first sentence describes your workflow, pick AKG K371; if the second does, pick Boya BY-M1 Lavalier.
What are the trade-offs?
AKG K371: headband padding feels thin. Boya BY-M1 Lavalier: omnidirectional grabs every room sound. Whether either matters depends entirely on what you actually need — neither is a deal-breaker by itself.
Can I use AKG K371 and Boya BY-M1 Lavalier together?
Both are equipment tools so most teams pick one. Some workflows do combine them — for example, using AKG K371 for one show or episode type and Boya BY-M1 Lavalier for another. Worth trying both free tiers before committing.