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
- Clear sound quality
- Sturdy frame
- Great for studio use
- A good deal for the price
- A great pick for monitoring headphones if you don’t want to drop a bunch of cash
Product Considerations
- Clamping force is high out of the box
- Ear openings are quite small for a circumaural headphone, meaning ears will be cramped inside
- Hinges are potentially a weak point
- Earpads heat up a bit
- Not comfortable after a short time
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro: The Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro are much better options for casual use
- Vs Sennheiser HD 280 PRO: The Sennheiser headphones amplify bass a bit more, hewing closer to how the ATH-M50x sounds
Takeaway: The ATH-M40x is a great set of headphones that can be used for pretty much anything. It is well worth the price tag and is great for anyone interested in video or audio recording on a budget.
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-M40x
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: Closed-back dynamic
- Driver Diameter: 40 mm
- Frequency Response: 15 - 24,000 Hz
- Maximum Input Power: 1,600 mW at 1 kHz
- Sensitivity: 98 dB
- Impedance: 35 ohms
- Weight: 240 g (8.5 oz), without cable
- Magnet: Neodymium
- Voice Coil: CCAW (Copper-clad aluminum wire)
Description
The ATH-M40x over-ear wired headphones feature advanced engineering and robust construction, making them the perfect studio headphones for professional tracking, mixing, and monitoring. Equipped with 40 mm drivers and tuned flat for incredibly accurate sound monitoring across the entire frequency range, these closed-back headphones deliver a critically acclaimed audio experience.
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.
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Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
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What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
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What if you spend more?
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Audio-Technica
ATH-WP900
699
699
/
8
Reviews
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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Product Strengths
- Flame maple housings are crafted with precision and look premium, adding both durability and aesthetic value
- Delivers exceptional clarity with detailed highs and a balanced mid-range
- Lightweight and comfortable, making them easy to wear for extended periods
- Offers a fast, tight, clean, and well-separated sound signature with a colorful and multidimensional soundstage
- Easy to drive, making them suitable for use with various portable sources
Product Considerations
- Bass response may feel a little too neutral for some listeners who prefer more emphasis on the low end
- The low midrange is somewhat recessed, which might rob male vocalists of presence and richness
- The included soft case may not be sufficient for protecting the headphones
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Focal Stelia or Sennheiser HD800S, the ATH-WP900 excels in build quality and high-frequency clarity, but those alternatives might be better for bass enthusiasts
- The WP900 has a natural sense of detail and energy, similar to Grado mids, but unlike a Grado, it delivers a fun, thumping bass line
- Compared to the Sennheiser HD-660S or the Beyerdynamic DT-1990 Pro, those alternatives offer a bit more warmth and bass presence, albeit with different designs
Takeaway: The ATH-WP900 headphones are a great choice for audiophiles who value clarity and a unique aesthetic design. The build quality and easy portability make them a set of headphones that is fun to use.
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
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Bang & Olufsen
Beoplay HX
749
749
/
10
Reviews
Bang & Olufsen is a luxury hifi speaker brand known for its Acoustic Lens Technology, which delivers 180° horizontal sound dispersion—features like the BeoLab 90's 18 individually amplified drivers offer user-selectable beam patterns. The Danish company distinguishes itself through vertically integrated aluminum manufacturing in Struer, a factory-led program that restores and modernizes its classic products, and transparent engineering documentation led by in-house tonmeister Geoff Martin.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Exquisite build quality with premium materials, like anodized aluminum, memory foam, lambskin leather, and high-quality polymer
- Very comfortable, generously padded with memory foam wrapped in lambskin, and the headband distributes pressure evenly
- Long battery life, up to 35 hours with ANC on and 40 hours with ANC off
- Sound quality is rich, refined, spacious, balanced, and impressively detailed
- Good voice pickup and decent noise suppression in moderately noisy environments
- Connectivity options are available
Product Considerations
- Round ear pads may pull down on ear cartilage and rest on ear lobes
- The HX can only be laid down flat, they are not fully collapsible
- ANC is good, but not quite at the level of industry leaders
- Touch panel is awkward to use, and touches are often not registered properly
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sony 1000XM4/XM5 and Bose 700, ANC on the HX is not quite at the level of these industry leaders
- Vs the H95, the HX are more sensible, and noticeably cheaper
- Vs the Sony XM3, the HX looks far more refined
- Vs the Apple AirPods Max, the HX has up to 15 hours of additional battery life, and are also 100g lighter
- Vs the Bowers & Wilkins PX7, the HX brings a slightly higher level of refinement, showcasing detail and nuances that are missed
Takeaway: The Beoplay HX are beautifully made headphones that deliver excellent sound quality and are highly comfortable. If the user values aesthetics as much as audio and is willing to pay a premium for quality, then the HX is worth consideration.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bang & Olufsen is a luxury hifi speaker brand known for its Acoustic Lens Technology, which delivers 180° horizontal sound dispersion—features like the BeoLab 90's 18 individually amplified drivers offer user-selectable beam patterns. The Danish company distinguishes itself through vertically integrated aluminum manufacturing in Struer, a factory-led program that restores and modernizes its classic products, and transparent engineering documentation led by in-house tonmeister Geoff Martin.
Product Page
Product Page
Neumann
NDH 20
549
549
/
8
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
- Comfortable for extended wear, with reviewers sometimes forgetting they are wearing headphones
- Sound reproduction is transparent and reliable, providing an accurate monitoring experience
- Good at isolation, making it easier to identify unwanted sounds in recordings
- Excellent build quality and handsome design using aluminum
- Midrange accuracy is a strong point, potentially comparable to the HD600
Product Considerations
- The bass can be a little bloated
- Some find the earpads stiff and uncomfortable initially
- Treble may be a bit too recessed
- Cable microphonics can be an issue
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Focal Allegias, the NDH 20 offers a more neutral tuning
- Compared to the Sennheiser HD 650, both models convey the midrange accuracy about the same, but the Sennheisers are lighter in the bass and a little brighter in the upper mid/treble area
Takeaway: The NDH 20 offers a combination of comfort, isolation, and accurate sound, making it a solid choice for studio use. It is a well-built and reliable tool for those needing a focused monitoring experience.
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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Kennerton
Magni
835
835
/
8
Reviews
Kennerton is a hifi headphone brand that pioneered horn-loaded headphones with their Gjallarhorn GH50, which applies loudspeaker-style horn acoustics to a closed-back design for an unusually surround-like soundstage. The brand also develops in-house 80mm planar drivers and uses rare woods like ancient bog oak and stabilized Karelian birch as standard materials rather than limited editions.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Good build quality and finish, with attention to detail and craftsmanship.
- Natural, organic, and well-balanced sound, with good detail.
- Spacious soundstage for a closed-back headphone.
- Very easy to drive and efficient, suitable for portable sources.
- Very good mid-range, with up-front vocals.
Product Considerations
- Treble can be a bit recessed or rolled-off.
- Burn-in time may be required before the sound settles.
- Can be critical of poor recording quality.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Tone balance is as good as HiFiMan Aria, but more dynamic and better with female vocals.
- Wider soundstage than Focal Celesti.
- Audeze LCD2 is darker.
- More high mid than beyerdynamic DT1770 Pro.
Takeaway: The Magni headphones are well-built and comfortable, offering a natural and enjoyable sound, with a surprising soundstage for closed-back headphones. It is a great choice for someone who wants a well-rounded headphone without needing a powerful amplifier.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Kennerton is a hifi headphone brand that pioneered horn-loaded headphones with their Gjallarhorn GH50, which applies loudspeaker-style horn acoustics to a closed-back design for an unusually surround-like soundstage. The brand also develops in-house 80mm planar drivers and uses rare woods like ancient bog oak and stabilized Karelian birch as standard materials rather than limited editions.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
Audio-Technica
ATH-M50xBT2
219
/
Released
2021
The ATH-M50xBT2 is the second generation of our critically acclaimed M-Series wireless over-ear headphones. These headphones feature 45 mm large aperture drivers in a wireless design, so listeners will enjoy the same sonic signature of the legendary ATH-M50x studio headphones.
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
- Neutral and balanced sound profile makes it suitable for studio monitoring and critical listening
- Comfortable for extended use due to soft padding on the earcups and headband
- Sturdy and robust build quality uses metal in key areas
- Long battery life often exceeds the advertised 50 hours in tests
- USB-C charging and a quick charge feature, providing multiple hours of playback with a short charge, are also highlighted
- The Audio-Technica Connect app enables users to customize the sound profile using an equalizer and presets, adjust L/R balance, customize voice assistant preference, customize volume, and other settings
- Flexibility of both Bluetooth wireless and wired connectivity via a 3.5mm audio jack
- Multipoint pairing, allowing simultaneous connection to two devices, is also a valuable feature
Product Considerations
- Absence of ANC is a common point of concern
- While the headphones offer decent passive isolation due to their over-ear design, they do not block out noise as effectively as ANC-equipped alternatives
- Heat can build up after longer listening sessions
- The earcups can sometimes be backward when putting on the headphones
- Tight fit may be uncomfortable for users who wear glasses or have larger heads
- Inconsistent bass and treble delivery, and are sensitive to the fit, seal, and positioning of the headphones on the head
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bose QC35: The ATH-M50xBT2 has a slightly shorter battery life, but unlike the Bose, it lacks noise cancelling
- Vs Sennheiser HD450BT: The ATH-M50xBT2 has a slightly shorter battery life than the Sennheiser HD450BT, but unlike the Sennheiser, it lacks noise cancelling
- Vs Sony WH-1000XM4: The Sony WH-1000XM4 is more comfortable and well-built, and unlike the Audio-Technica, it features an ANC feature
- Vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT: The ATH-M50xBT2 has a longer continuous battery life and better recording quality
- Vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT: The ATH-M50xBT2 also features sound customization options and multi-device pairing
- Vs Anker Soundcore Life Q30 Wireless: The Anker Soundcore Life Q30 Wireless feature an ANC feature, unlike the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 Wireless
Takeaway: The ATH-M50xBT2 headphones are a solid choice for those seeking balanced sound, comfort, and versatility in both wireless and wired modes. These headphones are suitable for listening to music, working from home, or in the office.
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-M50xSTS StreamSet™
249
/
Released
2023
Designed for streamers and content creators, the ATH-M50xSTS StreamSet™ is the world's first professional streaming headset that combines the legendary studio sound of the ATH-M50x headphones with the clarity of the iconic 20 Series microphones. Equipped with a cardioid condenser microphone, and two distinct earpad styles that you can use according to your preference, this headset delivers the ultimate studio-quality sound for you and your streaming audience.
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
- Combines the quality of M50x headphones with the clarity of the 20 series microphones from Audio-Technica
- Microphone quality is consistent with the 20 series microphones from Audio-Technica
- The headset has a sturdy and flexible build, with rotating and folding earcups and swappable pads for comfort
- Audio quality is well-balanced with little details shining through
- Convenient flip-to-mute function on the microphone
- Plug and play functionality
Product Considerations
- Cable is permanently attached
- The microphone picks up a lot of environmental noise
- There is no app for fine-tuning
- Earpads are not easy to remove and replace
- Some users may find the clamping force a bit tight
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sennheiser HD 650s: The Sennheiser HD 650s are more breathable
- Vs Audio-Technica AT2020: The capsule in the AT2020 is the same as the M50X-STS, but they do not sound the same
- Vs Sennheiser/EPOS Game Ones: The M50X-STSs offer a huge improvement
- Vs Audio-Technica BP-HS1: The M50Xs also have much better headphones compared to the BP-HS1
- Vs beyerdynamic Tygr 300 R: The beyerdynamic Tygr 300 R has a better soundstage
- Vs HyperX Cloud III: The HyperX Cloud III sounds great for the price
Takeaway: The ATH-M50xSTS StreamSet is a great choice for streamers or content creators who want a convenient setup with good audio and microphone quality. Comfortable for long sessions and delivering clear voice recording, it is a solid option for professional and non-professional use cases.
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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Audio-Technica
ATH-M20xBT
89
/
Released
2022
The ATH-M20xBT over-ear wireless headphones include all the features you want and the audio quality you demand. Inspired by our #1 selling ATH-M20x wired professional studio headphones and featuring powerful 40 mm drivers for enhanced low-frequency performance, the ATH-M20xBT Bluetooth headphones deliver an incredible listening experience with full-range, high-fidelity audio and enhanced bass.
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
- Sixty hours of wireless listening at an affordable price provides good value.
- Lightweight design enhances comfort for extended wear.
- A good sound signature with clear audio quality is delivered.
- Can be used with analog sources via a 3.5mm port, providing versatility.
- Impressive passive noise isolation due to ear cup design
Product Considerations
- Ear cups may lack depth, causing discomfort for some users.
- Mostly plastic construction does not feel robust.
- Earcups don't swivel to lay flat.
- Microphone quality is adequate, though not exceptional, with some callers potentially having complaints.
- Active noise cancelling (ANC) is not included.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the M50x, the M20xBT has less bass response and a lighter feel compared to the heftier M50x.
- Compared to the Sennheiser HD 350BT, the Audio-Technica ATH-M20xBT has superior battery life, while the Sennheiser has better codec support.
Takeaway: The Audio-Technica ATH-M20xBT is a budget-friendly wireless headphone that delivers good sound and long battery life. It is suitable for those who desire a simple, reliable pair of headphones without unnecessary frills.
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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Audio-Technica
ATH-GL3
109
/
Released
The ATH-GL3 high-fidelity gaming headset offers a pure sound quality like no other. Inspired by the elemental power of earth, the grounded, closed-back design of the headphones make you hear and feel every moment of a game. The lightweight, wired gaming headset comes equipped with a detachable boom microphone, and built-in volume control and mute switch for convenient control. Compatible with PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, laptops, PCs, and other devices, the ATH-GL3 is the ultimate gaming headset, delivering an immersive experience.
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
- Compatible with many different systems due to its 3.5mm cable connection, including PC, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and Mac
- Lightweight design, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods
- Features a detachable microphone
- Good sound quality for the price point
- Crisp audio quality
- Provides superior noise isolation due to its closed-back design
Product Considerations
- The earcup cushions are shallow
- The headband lacks padding, which decreases comfort for long-term use
- Plastic design may feel cheap
- The volume wheel can be a bit small and fiddly to use
- The mic mute button has no light or audio cue to indicate mute status
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Epos H3: The Epos H3 has better passive noise cancellation
- Vs Beyerdynamic MMX line: The Beyerdynamic MMX line has top-notch sound
Takeaway: The Audio-Technica ATH-GL3 is a lightweight, comfortable gaming headset with good sound quality and a detachable microphone, making it a solid choice for gamers on a budget. It is also compatible with a wide range of devices, making it versatile for different gaming setups.
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-S300BT
149
/
Released
2024
Wireless audio innovation is here with the ATH-S300BT, where wireless technology meets comfort, style, and convenience. These wireless headphones deliver an unparalleled audio experience with the freedom of Bluetooth® connectivity. The ATH-S300BT offers advanced features, like digital hybrid noise-cancelling technology, to customize your sound space no matter where you are.
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
- Exceptional battery life, advertised at 90 hours without noise-canceling and 60 hours with ANC.
- Very comfortable for extended use, with soft pleather ear cushions and a well-padded headband that distributes weight evenly.
- Good audio fidelity for the price range, with a warm sound signature and clear mids suitable for various music genres.
- Multipoint pairing allows connection with two devices simultaneously.
- Call quality is good, voice transmission sounds clear and natural, and the microphone cancels wind noise.
Product Considerations
- The design is described as minimalist and generic, lacking the distinctive Audio-Technica branding, with plastic construction.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is average, not on par with industry leaders like Sony or Bose, and a background noise was noted in ANC and ambient mode.
- There is no smartphone app support, so there is no EQ, button remapping, noise cancellation adjustments, or firmware updates.
- The headphones cannot be folded for easier travel.
- The transparency mode can sound unnatural, with some digital distortion and excessive amplification.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Sony WH-1000XM5, the ATH-S300BT is a more affordable alternative.
Takeaway:
The ATH-S300BT headphones offer a great combination of long battery life, comfort, and decent sound quality at an attractive price, and it is useful for work, music listening, and making calls. It is a good pick for people who want wireless headphones without spending too much.
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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