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
- Lightweight and comfortable, making it suitable for long listening sessions
- Comes with both balanced (4.4mm) and unbalanced (3.5mm) cables, catering to different audio setups
- Delivers clear and detailed sound, with forward vocals
- Easy to drive and does not require a powerful amplifier
- Has a stylish and premium design
Product Considerations
- Build quality can feel somewhat 'creaky' or 'plasticky'
- The ear pads could benefit from more cushion, as ears may touch the drivers for some users
- Bass response may be lacking for bass enthusiasts, and the sub-bass may be rolled off
- The A2DC connector is proprietary and not a standard connector like MMCX
- Accentuated sibilance can be fatiguing, depending on the source and song
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The ATH-MSR7B shares visual similarities with the Sony MDR-1A/1R
- The ATH-MSR7B offers more refined and natural vocals compared to the Audio-Technica M50x, which can sound slightly recessed and 'tin-canned'
- The ATH-MSR7B delivers a cleaner sound with better technical performance than the HyperX Cloud Alpha
- The Sony MDR-1AM2 provides more precise sound and better balance between highs and lows
- The ATH-MSR7B is more affordable, but the final Audio Sonorous III might sound better, although with an increased price
Takeaway: The ATH-MSR7B is a comfortable and stylish headphone that delivers detailed and clear sound. It is a great option for those who appreciate a forward vocal presentation and want a versatile headphone for various music genres.
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-MSR7b
reviews
[{"title":"Audio-Technica MSR7b - Crisp, Detailed & Different","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drVKeyB0vFk","source":"Minidisc","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"A new iteration - Audio Technica ATH- MSR7b Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrWJ2_SAWXs","source":"Nicktechno","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Audio-Technica ATH-MSR7b Review: Better than the M50x!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rpZMFrKGjuU","source":"No Theme Reviews","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Audiotechnica MSR7B 2021 Review- Best Lightweight Headphone?","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zykaaUHM62Y","source":"MajorHiFi","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Audio Technica ATH-MSR7B Review","link":"https://majorhifi.com/audio-technica-ath-msr7b-review","source":"majorhifi.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Audio Technica ATH-MSR7B Review - Aaron Tech Tips","link":"https://aarontechtips.com/2022/01/31/audio-technica-ath-msr7b-review-a-comfortable-headphone-that-delivers-excellent-sound-quality-and-value","source":"aarontechtips.com","datePublished":""}]
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: Dynamic
- Driver Diameter: 45 mm
- Frequency Response: 5-50,000 Hz
- Maximum Input Power: 2000 mW
- Sensitivity: 101 dB/mW
- Impedance: 36 ohms
- Weight: 237 g
- Cable: Detachable 1.2 m (3.9') cable (3.5 mm 3-pole stereo mini-plug to A2DC); detachable 1.2 m (3.9') cable (4.4 mm 5-pole balanced mini-plug to A2DC)
- Available Colors: Black and Gunmetal
Description
The ATH-MSR7b headphones give you the latest in high-resolution headphone technology, combining the advanced features of the original ATH-MSR7 with both standard and balanced connection options for the ultimate portable listening 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
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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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Edifier
Stax Spirit S5
569
569
/
11
Reviews
Edifier, a hifi audio brand, horn-loaded ribbon tweeters to affordable active monitors through their Airpulse series. The brand achieved the first Hi-Res Audio certified true wireless earbuds with their NeoBuds Pro and in 2010 became China's first publicly listed audio speaker company.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent wireless sound quality with clarity, detail, and balanced, refined sound.
- Good technical performance, particularly soundstage width.
- Multiple hifi audio codecs are supported, including LDAC, aptX HD, and aptX Lossless.
- The Edifier ConneX app provides a customizable EQ.
- Long battery life is quoted at 80 hours.
Product Considerations
- Active noise cancellation is lacking.
- Some reviewers find the fit awkward, with inadequate clamping force.
- Treble can sound a little metallic or plasticky.
- The use of animal hide might deter some buyers.
- The volume on wireless mode isn't always loud enough.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Sennheiser Momentum 4, the Spirit S5 offers a more audiophile-like presentation with better soundstage and clarity.
- The Spirit S5 destroys the Sony WH-1000XM5 and the Sennheiser Momentum 4s in terms of sound quality.
- The S5 sounds better than the Stax Spirit S3, with improvements across the board and new features.
Takeaway: The Stax Spirit S5 is a great-sounding wireless headphone that is comfortable and offers modern convenience. It is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to enjoy music with detail and clarity.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Edifier, a hifi audio brand, horn-loaded ribbon tweeters to affordable active monitors through their Airpulse series. The brand achieved the first Hi-Res Audio certified true wireless earbuds with their NeoBuds Pro and in 2010 became China's first publicly listed audio speaker company.
Product Page
Product Page
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.
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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-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-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.
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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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