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Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Very wide soundstage, excellent for gaming and movies, giving a 'live' feel to music.
- Open, clear, articulate, detailed, and engaging sound.
- Lightweight and comfortable, especially for those with larger heads.
- Easy to drive and sounds good without an amplifier.
Product Considerations
- Build quality feels cheap due to the use of plastic.
- Non-detachable cable, which is also considered too long.
- The 3D wing system is hit or miss, may not fit all head sizes well, and can cause the earcups to weigh down on the ears over time.
- Bass response is light and lacks body and extension, which is not ideal for bass enthusiasts or certain music genres.
- Sound leakage due to open-back design, so it is not ideal for use in public places.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. AKG K701: The ATH-AD900X is easier to drive.
- Vs. Philips SHP9500: The ATH-AD900x and SHP9500 have similar sound signatures, but the SHP9500 is more resolving and textured overall, and has a deeper bass.
- Vs. ATH-M50s: The ATH-M50s have more bass, while the ATH-AD900X is cleaner sounding.
- Vs. Beyerdynamic DT-990s: The ATH-AD900X has a much cleaner sound, but less bass.
- Vs. Beyerdynamic DT-880s: The ATH-AD900X is more aggressive in the treble area.
- Vs. Sennheiser HD600: The ATH-AD900X and HD600 are bass-light, but the ATH-AD900X has a wider soundstage.
Takeaway: The ATH-AD900X is a great entry-level audiophile headphone with an airy and detailed sound, that is especially good for gaming due to its pinpoint accuracy and wide soundstage. If you want light and comfortable open-back headphones for home listening, these could be a good fit.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
ATH-AD900X
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Type: Open-air Dynamic
- Driver Diameter: 53 mm
- Frequency Response: 5 - 35,000 Hz
- Maximum Input Power: 1,000 mW
- Sensitivity: 100 dB/mW
- Impedance: 38 ohms
- Weight: 265 g
- Cable: 3.0 m (9.8')
- Connector: 3.5 mm (1/8") mini stereo, gold-plated
Description
Designed to deliver extraordinary sound quality to satisfy the most discriminating listeners, the ATH-AD900x is ideal for music lovers who prefer the spacious quality of open-back headphones that combine involving sound with long-wearing comfort.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Audio-Technica's products are known for their sturdy and comfortable build, making them suitable for long listening sessions.
- Audio-Technica offers open-back headphone designs, like the ATH-GDL3, geared toward gamers and audiophiles seeking a wider soundstage, a feature uncommon among gaming headsets.
Select products
Select product comparisons
ATH-AD500X
- Positioning: Entry-level open-air audiophile headphones designed for comfortable, natural listening.
- Description: Features newly designed 53 mm drivers with CCAW voice coils and a lightweight honeycomb aluminum casing that deliver natural sound with impactful bass and clear vocals. Compared to the higher‐priced models in the lineup, it offers a straightforward open-air design ideal for casual listening and home use without advanced studio-level acoustic refinements.
ATH-TWX9
- Positioning: Premium truly wireless earbuds engineered for dynamic everyday use and active lifestyles.
- Description: Incorporates digital hybrid noise-cancelling technology with customizable ambience control, deep-UV sterilization, and support for Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound to create an immersive 3D sound stage. In contrast to the over-ear studio and monitor designs, they prioritize portability, flexible noise management, and extended battery life to meet the needs of commuters and workout enthusiasts.
ATH-M70x
- Positioning: Professional closed-back monitor headphones tuned for precise mixing and tracking in the studio.
- Description: Uses proprietary 45 mm large-aperture drivers to achieve an extended frequency response from 5 to 40,000 Hz, ensuring balanced and accurate sound reproduction. Compared to the more portable TWX9 and the open-back reference model, they offer enhanced sound isolation and durability for long studio sessions with a focus on critical listening tasks.
ATH-R70xa
- Positioning: Flagship open-back reference headphones crafted for critical studio listening and production.
- Description: Delivers pure, natural sound with a fully open-back design that minimizes internal resonance and distortion, providing precise imaging and quick transient response through meticulously engineered drivers. Compared to the closed-back M70x, the R70xa offers a more spacious and uncolored soundstage ideal for mixing, mastering, and detailed production work in quiet environments.
ATH-AWKG
- Positioning: Ultra-premium audiophile headphones that merge traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge audio engineering.
- Description: Features an exclusive KUROGAKI wooden housing with a hand-applied lacquer finish and a double air damping system coupled with 53 mm drivers to offer clear, expansive sound quality. In contrast to all other models in the lineup, the AWKG emphasizes luxurious materials and artisanal construction along with advanced acoustics.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
1
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
593
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
50
Founding Year
1962
Our take on the brand
Audio-Technica is a Japanese hifi brand that stands out with their Direct Power System phono cartridges, which place coils directly above the stylus tip for faster transients; their Pure Digital Drive wireless headphones that bypass internal DACs; and their proprietary A2DC connector system for more secure connections. The brand maintains exceptional in-house manufacturing depth, with hand-assembled wooden headphones crafted from Japanese woods in Tokyo and phono cartridge production at their Fukui plant.
Look inside the brand
Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
What other products pair best with yours?
From our interview with
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Brand Page
What if you spend more?
FIIO
FT7
699
699
/
11
Reviews
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Uses premium materials like carbon fiber, metal, sheep lambskin earpads, and zebra wood faceplates for a luxurious feel, with excellent build quality
- Has a mostly neutral sound signature, with lambskin pads bass response is very good with a tasteful emphasis placed on the sub-bass region, and a decent midrange
- Provides good detail retrieval, resolution, and transparency of sound, the drivers can show plenty of information and micro detail
- A pad swapping system allows changes to sound characteristics, with lambskin pads and breathable fabric pads included
- Comes with a quarter-inch adapter and a 4-pin XLR adapter for use with portable or desktop devices
Product Considerations
- The stock cable is 3 meters long, which is too long for desktop use
- Headband adjustment can be a little stiff to move
- With leather pads, the highs can get slightly sharp
- There is a slight sharpness in the upper treble that might pose a problem for some listeners, using fabric pads can mitigate this
- Weight distribution could be better, there's not enough padding on the headband, and the clamp force is low, this distributes all the weight across the top of the head, which can be bothersome after 40-50 minutes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HiFiMan Susvara: Has a similar driver structure
- Vs HiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: Is close in terms of technical performance like resolution, transient response, soundstage, depth, and openness
- Vs HiFiMan Arya Stealth: Has a better build quality and bass response
Takeaway: The FiiO FT7 is a well-built, comfortable headphone that offers a neutral-leaning-warm sound that can be tailored with different earpads. The FT7 competes with other headphones that cost significantly more, making it a great pick at its price point.
Video review
Our take on the brand
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Product Page
Product Page
Neumann
NDH 30
649
649
/
11
Reviews
Neumann pioneered studio recording technology by creating the first mass-produced condenser microphone in 1928 and introducing then-novel features like remotely switchable polar patterns. The company also manufactured the record-cutting lathes that defined vinyl mastering—a rare dual legacy. The brand offers faithful reissues of historic microphones built from original blueprints and studio monitors with phase linearization DSP, serving professional recording engineers and classical music producers who demand period-correct sonics and precise acoustic control.
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Product Strengths
- Excellent stereo separation for mixing and monitoring
- Built with aluminum, it has a durable feel
- Designed for reference listening
- Clean, linear, and very detailed mids
Product Considerations
- Sound can be considered somewhat restrained, lacking upper midrange and low to HF 'hype'
- Cloth ear pads may not feel as soft or luxurious as velour pads on some other headphones
- Lacks impact and bite
- Headband padding is uncomfortable
- Single-entry cable is on the right side, which is an unusual placement
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sennheiser HD650: Differences come down to something similar to a full-range studio monitor versus a full-range hifi speaker of equal build quality and similar design, Sennheisers are geared more towards enjoying the brain-pleasing sounds of music, while you probably want to mix with the Neumanns
- Vs Sennheiser HD600/650: The HD600 and HD650 are more comfortable, with a better industrial design than the NDH-30
Takeaway: The Neumann NDH 30 is a tool that can be very helpful for mixing sessions, especially for identifying details in the mid-range of a mix. Its design and build quality also make it a lasting product.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Neumann pioneered studio recording technology by creating the first mass-produced condenser microphone in 1928 and introducing then-novel features like remotely switchable polar patterns. The company also manufactured the record-cutting lathes that defined vinyl mastering—a rare dual legacy. The brand offers faithful reissues of historic microphones built from original blueprints and studio monitors with phase linearization DSP, serving professional recording engineers and classical music producers who demand period-correct sonics and precise acoustic control.
Product Page
Product Page
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Thieaudio
Wraith
549
549
/
10
Reviews
Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
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Product Strengths
- The Wraith features an all-metal alloy body that feels sturdy and durable
- The earcups feature a rotating mechanism, making it convenient to rest the headphones around the neck
- The design is considered stylish, industrial, and unique
- The suspension headband design distributes weight evenly, making it comfortable to wear for long listening sessions
Product Considerations
- The Wraith's headband adjustment system is not very practical and requires a screwdriver to adjust
- Stock pads may not create the best seal, impacting sound isolation
- The soundstage is intimate, and the resolution is average
- The 2.5mm connectors on the earcups might limit replacement cable options
- Sub-bass can roll off with stock pads
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HiFiMan Edition XS: The Edition XS has better resolution, clarity, and sub-bass response out of the box, but the Wraith has superior build quality, materials, robustness, and comfort
- Vs Sendy Audio Aiva: The Wraith and Aiva share a similar bass roll-off
- Vs Moondrop Venus: The Moondrop Venus costs slightly more and provides a wider soundstage and more refined sound
Takeaway: The ThieAudio Wraith has excellent build quality and a unique design, making them durable and comfortable for many users. The sound is warm and laid-back, making them suitable for casual listening.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Product Page
Product Page
HIFIMAN
Arya Stealth Magnets
599
599
/
10
Reviews
HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Very comfortable, even for extended listening sessions, due to a suspension strap design and large earcups.
- Soundstage is large and open, creating a concert-like experience with sounds coming from a distance and feeling like a three-dimensional experience.
- Deliver detailed and transparent sound, making it possible to hear all the nuances in music.
- Easy to drive with high sensitivity, though still benefit from a dedicated amplifier.
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers find the bass lacking in punch, preferring a more pronounced bass response.
- Treble might sound a touch bright and fatiguing, depending on the music and amplification.
- Build quality isn't mind-blowing for the price; made of plastic and metal, not always appropriate for long-term durability.
- Stock cable isn't the most wonderful, a little bit stiff.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Audeze LCD-X 2020: Arya Stealth has better resolution and soundstage, but the LCD-X has a more visceral bass and organic sound.
- Vs HiFiMan Ananda: Arya Stealth is better, with more bass, crisper resolution, and a bigger soundstage; everything is sharper, clearer, better resolved, and more refined.
- Vs Sennheiser HD800S: Arya has a slightly V-shaped profile, while the HD800S is smoother with a more neutral tuning; both trade blows equally regarding soundstage, imaging, and resolution.
- Vs HiFiMan Sundara: Arya Stealth has deeper bass response and cleaner sound, while Sundara is warmer and more mid-centric, with darker treble.
- Vs Sendy Audio Peacock: Arya has clearer, more transparent, and more detailed treble, but Peacock's bass is heavier and more impactful, its midrange is fuller and smoother.
- Vs HiFiMan Edition XS: Arya Stealth is more comfortable and feels better built, but both have a similar sound, with the Edition XS having a slightly punchier bass.
Takeaway: The Arya Stealth Magnets are great for listeners looking for exceptional imaging, transparency, and clarity in their music, offering a high-end sound experience with a spacious soundstage. These headphones are a good option for audiophiles who want a detailed and engaging listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
Audio-Technica
ATH-GDL3
139
/
Released
2022
Inspired by the elemental spirit of air, the ATH-GDL3 open-back high-fidelity gaming headset offers an expansive sound for an immersive gaming experience like no other. And at 220 grams, the ATH-GDL3 is nearly as light as air, making it an extremely comfortable gaming headset. The lightweight headset comes equipped with features like a detachable boom microphone, built-in volume control, and mute-switch for convenient control.
Audio-Technica is a Japanese hifi brand that stands out with their Direct Power System phono cartridges, which place coils directly above the stylus tip for faster transients; their Pure Digital Drive wireless headphones that bypass internal DACs; and their proprietary A2DC connector system for more secure connections. The brand maintains exceptional in-house manufacturing depth, with hand-assembled wooden headphones crafted from Japanese woods in Tokyo and phono cartridge production at their Fukui plant.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Noted for being a very lightweight and comfortable headset for long gaming sessions.
- The open-back design contributes to a spacious and wide soundstage, enhancing the listening experience.
- Reviewers praise the clarity and balanced sound, making it suitable for both gaming and music.
- The microphone is detachable and provides good quality audio for in-game communication.
- The design is simple and elegant, making it suitable for non-gaming use as well.
Product Considerations
- The open-back design results in significant sound leakage, which may not be suitable for use in quiet environments or around others.
- Some reviewers find the build quality to feel somewhat flimsy due to the lightweight plastic construction.
- The volume wheel placement can be a bit difficult to access and use on the fly.
- The stock cable, while detachable, might feel a little thin and flimsy.
- The open back design allows a significant amount of ambient noise to get through.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the ATH-GL3, the GDL3 has a more spacious and airy sound compared to the warmer, more grounded sound of the GL3.
- The Epos H3 has a little bit more clamping force and doesn't strike the same chord on comfort, but has better passive noise cancellation.
- Mids track well with the Philips Fidelio X3 headphones.
- Gaming headsets present audio more faithfully, while the mic quality on the ATH-770XCOM is clear and better at capturing upper frequency, while the ATH-GL3 / GDL3 deliver stronger mid-tones.
- Audio-Technica siblings sound more balanced, the IINVICTOR Soturi brings out more directional details due to its brighter signature.
Takeaway: The ATH-GDL3 is a lightweight, comfortable, open-back gaming headset that provides a balanced and clear sound experience. With its detachable mic and elegant design, it's a great option for gamers who value audio quality and comfort.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Audio-Technica is a Japanese hifi brand that stands out with their Direct Power System phono cartridges, which place coils directly above the stylus tip for faster transients; their Pure Digital Drive wireless headphones that bypass internal DACs; and their proprietary A2DC connector system for more secure connections. The brand maintains exceptional in-house manufacturing depth, with hand-assembled wooden headphones crafted from Japanese woods in Tokyo and phono cartridge production at their Fukui plant.
Product Page
Product Page
Audio-Technica
ATH-R50x
169
/
Released
2025
The ATH-R50x professional open-back reference headphones are designed to provide a natural listening experience with an expansive soundstage that's ideal for all manner of critical-listening tasks. The headphones' drivers are modelled after those used in the original ATH-R70x, now re-engineered to deliver bass that's surprisingly powerful for an open-back model, plus an accurate upper midrange to ensure the clarity of vocals and lead instruments without sacrificing overall balance.
Audio-Technica is a Japanese hifi brand that stands out with their Direct Power System phono cartridges, which place coils directly above the stylus tip for faster transients; their Pure Digital Drive wireless headphones that bypass internal DACs; and their proprietary A2DC connector system for more secure connections. The brand maintains exceptional in-house manufacturing depth, with hand-assembled wooden headphones crafted from Japanese woods in Tokyo and phono cartridge production at their Fukui plant.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Super lightweight and comfortable to wear.
- Detailed sound and impressive dynamics.
- Wide frequency range.
- High resolution mid and high frequencies.
- Includes two cables and a carrying bag.
Product Considerations
- Headband adjustment is difficult when wearing the headphones.
- Transition between mid and high frequencies is quite pronounced.
- Treble might be a dealbreaker, and cymbals can become overly splashy.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the ATH-R70xa, the ATH-R50x is a more affordable alternative with a lower impedance, making it suitable for low-voltage devices.
- Compared to the ATH-R70xa, the ATH-R50x has more bass quantity and extension.
- Compared to the ATH-R30x, the ATH-R50x has better soundstage and imaging.
Takeaway: The Audio-Technica ATH-R50x are comfortable, lightweight headphones that provide detailed sound, making them great for mixing and mastering. They're also good for everyday use because of their detailed sound and how light they are.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Audio-Technica is a Japanese hifi brand that stands out with their Direct Power System phono cartridges, which place coils directly above the stylus tip for faster transients; their Pure Digital Drive wireless headphones that bypass internal DACs; and their proprietary A2DC connector system for more secure connections. The brand maintains exceptional in-house manufacturing depth, with hand-assembled wooden headphones crafted from Japanese woods in Tokyo and phono cartridge production at their Fukui plant.
Product Page
Product Page
Audio-Technica
ATH-R70xa
379
/
Released
2025
The ATH-R70xa is Audio-Technica's flagship pair of professional open-back reference headphones. This enhanced version of the ATH-R70x delivers the natural and balanced sound of its predecessor but with refined accuracy and detail, providing a heightened listening experience with precise imaging and depth.
Audio-Technica is a Japanese hifi brand that stands out with their Direct Power System phono cartridges, which place coils directly above the stylus tip for faster transients; their Pure Digital Drive wireless headphones that bypass internal DACs; and their proprietary A2DC connector system for more secure connections. The brand maintains exceptional in-house manufacturing depth, with hand-assembled wooden headphones crafted from Japanese woods in Tokyo and phono cartridge production at their Fukui plant.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Lightweight design, often described as 'feather-light,' makes it comfortable for long listening sessions
- Open-back design contributes to a wide and spacious soundstage, enabling listeners to discern the placement of instruments in the stereo field
- The cable, with locking mechanisms, is signal independent, meaning it can be plugged into either ear cup without affecting the left/right audio channels
- Good clarity
- Commendable dynamic performance for its price, transients are snappy and well-distinguished, with no hint of muddiness or veil
Product Considerations
- The high impedance of 470 Ohms requires an amplifier or interface to drive the headphones adequately, especially from weaker sources like laptops
- Treble presentation can be slightly uneven or dry, and the headband design lacks flexibility, affecting comfort and fit
- Can be more fatiguing than the original R70x or HD650
- The design is somewhat awkward with limited ear cup articulation, which sometimes prevents a snug fit around my jaw and can cause slight leakage
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sennheiser HD650: The tonal balance for this headphone in the mid-range is better than the HD650
- Vs Beyerdynamic DT 880: The spatial presentations are a lot more similar between these two
- Vs Sennheiser HD6XX: If one is into dynamics and wants a weightier, fuller tone, this one is the more natural sounding one
- The presentation here differs from the HD6X0 series, there’s more grain and attack in the midrange and upper frequencies, making it potentially fatiguing if one is accustomed to the HD650’s relaxed tuning
- Reminiscent of the DT770 Pro in terms of midrange linearity, but without the latter’s notorious treble peaks
- Compared to the Moondrop Para, it falls slightly short
Takeaway:
The ATH-R70XA offers a very lightweight design and a wide soundstage for critical listening and enjoying music. It could be a worthwhile purchase for those seeking a comfortable, open-back headphone for studio work or audiophile listening in quiet environments, as long as it is paired with a suitable amplifier.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Audio-Technica is a Japanese hifi brand that stands out with their Direct Power System phono cartridges, which place coils directly above the stylus tip for faster transients; their Pure Digital Drive wireless headphones that bypass internal DACs; and their proprietary A2DC connector system for more secure connections. The brand maintains exceptional in-house manufacturing depth, with hand-assembled wooden headphones crafted from Japanese woods in Tokyo and phono cartridge production at their Fukui plant.
Product Page
Product Page
Audio-Technica
ATH-R30x
109
/
Released
2025
Perfect for use in home studios or by emerging audio professionals anywhere, the ATH-R30x is your gateway to the R-Series listening experience, offering all the features you could ask for in a pair of open-back reference headphones. Delivering professional-grade performance without compromise, these versatile headphones provide natural, immersive audio with a wide, detailed soundstage that brings depth and realism to every session.
Audio-Technica is a Japanese hifi brand that stands out with their Direct Power System phono cartridges, which place coils directly above the stylus tip for faster transients; their Pure Digital Drive wireless headphones that bypass internal DACs; and their proprietary A2DC connector system for more secure connections. The brand maintains exceptional in-house manufacturing depth, with hand-assembled wooden headphones crafted from Japanese woods in Tokyo and phono cartridge production at their Fukui plant.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very lightweight, making it comfortable for long listening sessions.
- Provides a 'refreshing honesty' and transparency to the sound, making it suitable for critical listening and mixing.
- Has a good amount of clarity and resolution.
- Offers a warmer bass profile with surprising sub-bass extension.
- The design borrows from the DNA of its older siblings, the R50x and R70x.
Product Considerations
- The cable is non-detachable, a compromise to keep the price competitive.
- The ear pads are not very deep, and ears may touch the driver baffle.
- The treble can be a bit bright and harsh, which might require EQ for some users.
- Some reviewers note that the build feels 'cheaper and more plasticky' compared to higher-end models.
- The pads are not as soft or smooth feeling as the higher end R50 and R70 models.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. HiFiMan HE400SE: Better dynamics, and it doesn't sound as compressed.
- Vs. Sennheiser HD 599: Better clarity and detail retrieval.
- Vs. Philips SHP9500: More warmth and better bass.
- Vs. ATH-AD700X: There is no reason to pick the ATH-AD700X over the R30X, unless the sizing characteristics make sense to the user or if the user wants something that sounds wider.
- Vs. R50X: The R50x has more emphasis in the 1 to 2,000 Hertz area, and the upper treble is much more relaxing.
- Vs. R70XA: The R70XA has a more tame treble, so everything just sounds great on it and has been really fun.
Takeaway: The ATH-R30x is a good-value open-back headphone that offers a balanced and detailed sound, making it suitable for both music listening and studio use. Its lightweight design and comfortable fit make it a great choice for those on a budget.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Audio-Technica is a Japanese hifi brand that stands out with their Direct Power System phono cartridges, which place coils directly above the stylus tip for faster transients; their Pure Digital Drive wireless headphones that bypass internal DACs; and their proprietary A2DC connector system for more secure connections. The brand maintains exceptional in-house manufacturing depth, with hand-assembled wooden headphones crafted from Japanese woods in Tokyo and phono cartridge production at their Fukui plant.
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Sennheiser
HD 560S
279
/
Released
2020
With linear acoustics tailored to extended listening sessions and smooth, gratifying bass performance, the HD 560S was crafted for the analytical audio enthusiast.
Sennheiser pioneered the world's first open-back headphones with the HD 414 in 1968, which became the bestselling full-size headphone of all time, and later developed the HD 25, evolving from 1980s broadcast use to become the industry standard in DJ booths worldwide. The brand is known for unique engineering approaches, such as integrating high-voltage amplifiers directly into earcups with Carrara marble chassis in the HE 1, developing proprietary ring-radiator transducers and absorber technology to eliminate resonances, and creating the long-running MD 421 microphone that has remained in production since 1960.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The HD 560S delivers a flat sound profile that should suit most musical genres
- Very comfortable, with a relatively lightweight design and plenty of plush padding
- Soundstage is exemplary
- Lightweight and provide a nimble feel
- Excels in delivering both vocals and instruments with a remarkable level of clarity and precision
Product Considerations
- Some users might find it a bit dull over time due to its conservative sound signature
- Can be a bit intense at times in the lower treble
- The plastic construction does not scream luxury
- Some loss of texture in the mid-bass, with bass notes of different instruments often sounding the same
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs AKG K702: 560S' sound is going to feel a bit closer, but it may not always be a good thing when trying to hear what is farther off in the distance, for gaming
- Vs Sennheiser HD58X: The 560S is cleaner and more accurate sounding than the HD58X
- Vs Sennheiser HD600: The 560S is more intimate and livelier sounding than the darker HD600
- Vs HIFIMAN Sundara: Compared to the more expensive Hifiman Sundara, the 560S sounds like it lacks detail across the frequency spectrum, except in the sub bass region where the Sundara does not seem to dig as deep
Takeaway: The Sennheiser HD560S is a comfortable headphone with a well-balanced sound, making it a solid choice for both gamers and music enthusiasts looking for neutrality and clarity. It is a versatile headphone for various genres and applications.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Sennheiser pioneered the world's first open-back headphones with the HD 414 in 1968, which became the bestselling full-size headphone of all time, and later developed the HD 25, evolving from 1980s broadcast use to become the industry standard in DJ booths worldwide. The brand is known for unique engineering approaches, such as integrating high-voltage amplifiers directly into earcups with Carrara marble chassis in the HE 1, developing proprietary ring-radiator transducers and absorber technology to eliminate resonances, and creating the long-running MD 421 microphone that has remained in production since 1960.
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