Audio-Technica ATH-R70x

Someone somewhere at an Audio-Technica board meeting recently jumped up,  forcefully opened the windows, and simply said, “It’s time!”

At least that’s the way we like to think the company went into production of its ATH-R70x, Audio-Technica’s first pair of professional open-back reference headphones. Featuring specially designed drivers and acoustically transparent housings fashioned from aluminum honeycomb mesh, these cans promise an accurate and natural open-back sound. The company says they also incorporate a new, improved design of Audio-Technica’s 3D wing support system, which provide a high level of comfort during prolonged use. The headphones also feature a dual-sided detachable cable that automatically maintains proper stereo orientation, no matter how it’s attached. Lightweight but sturdy, the carbon composite resin used also improves structural rigidity to provide detailed transient response. These will be released on May 1st with a retail price of $489. [Purchase]