Audio-Technica has a new family of headphones. There’s something for everyone, from the company’s first set of true wireless earbuds to a revamped version of a beloved premium model.
At the top of the food chain is the Audio-Technica ATH-MSR7b. These are a renovation of the popular ATH-MSR7, with a promise of enhanced audio performance and a lighter, more portable design. The ATH-MSR7b headphones weigh 53g less than the original, but there’s still an emphasis on sound quality. The cable system has been upgraded and now there is a detachable balanced cable output connection, which aims to reduce signal interference and crosstalk.
Next up are a couple of wireless options. The Audio-Technica ATH-SR50BT feature a ‘hear-through’ function, which lets in ambient sounds without you having to remove the headphones. This is handy for when you need some situational awareness, such as when you’re crossing the road or waiting for a train announcement. These headphones use low-energy Bluetooth 5.0, with support for aptX., AAC and SBC. Claimed battery life is 28 hours. The Audio-Technica ATH-SR30BT are a step down – they don’t have the ‘hear-through’ function, but they do have a whopping 70-hour battery life.
Finally, comes Audio-Technica’s first steps into the world of truly wireless earbuds and there are two models to choose from.
The premium Audio-Technica ATH-CKR7TW features offer 11mm drivers with carbon-coated diaphragms, promising increased rigidity for faster response times and reduced distortion. You get up to six hours of play time on a single charge, with the charging case providing an extra nine hours.
Then there’s the Audio-Technica ATH-SPORT7TW – a sports model, of course. These take a step back in sound quality (the drivers are smaller at 5.8mm) but offer an upgrade in ruggedness. The IPX5 rating means they’re sweat and weather resistant, and they can be rinsed under a tap after a workout. They also have ergonomic find to ensure maximum stability during exercise and feature the ‘hear-through’ function, ideal for safe jogging. They offer 3.5 hours of play time on a single charge, and the case adds a further 14-hours.
Related: Best headphones
Pricing is as follows:
Premium headphones:
Audio-Technica ATH-MSR7b – £219 / €249
Wireless headphones:
Audio-Technica ATH-SR50BT – £179 / €199
Audio-Technica ATH-SR30BT – £99 / €99
True wireless earbuds:
Audio-Technica ATH-CKR7TW – £229 / €249
Audio-Technica TH-SPORT7TW – £179 / €199
The entire family of new Audio-Technica headphones will be released in Autumn 2018.
Will you be treating your ears to some new Audio-Technica cans or buds? Drop us a line @TrustedReviews on Twitter.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
