Award winner
Find at
Audio-Technica is a brand with a long legacy in quality audio - it released its first pair of headphones more than 50 years ago. Its latest offering, the ATH-R70xa, is the successor to the ATH-R70x open-back reference headphones.
Unlike their predecessor, the ATH-R70xa don’t rely on damping or acoustic architecture to augment the lower frequencies. Instead, the headphones have been designed to ensure all the sound is delivered by the transducer – something which Audio Technica claims results in accurate, natural audio with realistic soundstaging.
Along with the extended frequency response, the design of the headphones (which are hand-crafted in Japan) has been given an overhaul. At 199g they’re lighter than the old model, and Audio Technica says its new headband design is even more comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
Sound Quality
Open-back headphones have earcups that allow sound to move away from, as well as towards, the ear. Earcups on closed-back headphones are completely sealed, so sound is fully directed towards the ear. The idea is that open-back headphones can create a more natural and open presentation (in addition to leaking sound outwards for anyone to hear).
When it comes to the Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa, the soundstage is, on the whole, certainly spacious and airy. The wide frequency response means there are good levels of clarity and detail throughout the top end, as well as in the midrange and lower frequencies. There’s also plenty of openness to the sound, and the headphones do a brilliant job of ensuring tiny details are clearly audible and accurately reproduced while making you feel as though the music is surrounding you.
The ATH-R70xa strike the right balance at the top end, maintaining a presentation that’s crisp and bright without becoming harsh. However, the midrange is where these headphones really excel – vocals, in particular, are given the chance to shine, always sounding warm and clear.
When it comes to lower frequencies, the headphones just aren’t quite as impressive. While the lower notes are clearly distinguishable, they lack punch and richness. This lack of depth and fullness in the lower frequencies contributes to a somewhat hollow, flat-feeling presentation. But it’s not all bad news - the headphones do a good job of ensuring the low end is tight, without distortion or muddiness, and they don’t overpower other elements of tracks.
Like most open-back headphones, the Audio Technica allow external sounds to make their way in, but not to a level that distracts from the audio - and, as you’d expect, sound does leak from these headphones. That said, for a natural, bright sound with a focus on detail, these headphones definitely hit the mark.
Living with the Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa
While the Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa are certainly lightweight, they are just a little too large for me. Even with the headband adjusted to its smallest setting, there’s still a small gap between it and my head. This means the headphones slowly slip down my head during wear until the earcups are resting on the tops of my ears, creating both an uncomfortable experience and a look that’s, well, more than slightly comical. That said, the earcups are thickly padded and covered in a soft fabric, which means those with larger heads are likely to find these headphones pleasant to wear.
The all-black aesthetic looks stylish, and the headphones have a premium feel to them too. There’s the ability to use the headphones with both 3.5mm and 6.3mm sockets, thanks to the additional jack that comes bundled with the headphones and screws onto the 3.5mm jack. However, one of my gripes with some open-back headphones is that they are often supplied with a soft bag for protection rather than a hard case, despite the fact they are generally more delicate than closed-back headphones. Unfortunately, the Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa are no exception.
Conclusion
The Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa are a good-sounding pair of headphones, with nicely balanced audio that’s crisp and clear, plenty of detail and no harshness. They are, however, lacking when it comes to substance and richness in the lower frequencies. They’re lightweight and stylish, but those with petite heads may find the comfort doesn’t quite reach the level they were expecting - but they are still a good buy if they fit you.
Listening Notes
Bob Marley Buffalo SoliderThis reggae classic sounds fresh and vibrant, with the repetitive bass perfectly balanced alongside the brass instruments and melodic vocals for a laid-back sound that won’t fail to get your shoulders swaying.
Sam Smith One Last SongThe headphones ensure plenty of gravitas is given to the rhythmic percussion alongside Smith's smooth vocals while ensuring details, including the soulful harmonies and brass instruments, remain clearly audible.
Eva Cassidy Song BirdCassidy's soulful vocals are the star of the show when listening to this track through the ATH-R70xa, but the gentle strum of the guitar is not overlooked - it’s clear and detailed, making for a sublime listen.
If you’re looking for a pair of open-backed headphones that offer a natural, clear sound with plenty of brightness, the Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa are worth considering. The balanced sound and clarity of detail is more than worth the hefty price tag. Bear in mind that while these are lightweight and stylish, though, those with smaller heads may want to assess the level of comfort that’s available.
The iFi GO Bar Kensei is a little headphone amp/DAC with big ambitions, and it’s a great partner for the Audio Technica ATH-R70a thanks to its ability to bring the best from any headphones connected to it.
