Audio-Technica unveils new professional open-back headphones

Audio-Technica has announced the release of its latest professional open-back reference headphones – the ATH-R70xa and ATH-R50x – launching exclusively at Thomann. The new models deliver exceptional audio clarity and precision and expand the capabilities of critical listening in both home studio and professional environments.

Designed for professionals who demand accuracy, transparency, and comfort, the ATH-R70xa and ATH-R50x are the next evolution in Audio-Technica’s highly regarded R-series. The ATH-R70xa, Audio-Technica’s flagship model, is an enhanced version of the popular ATH-R70x. It features a fully open-back design that delivers the natural and balanced sound of its predecessor, with refined accuracy and detail for a more immersive listening experience. 

By eliminating the reliance on acoustic cavities or resonance, the ATH-R70xa relies solely on the performance of the driver, translating every diaphragm movement directly into sound. This results in minimal distortion and a more authentic open-back experience. The ATH-R70xa is handcrafted in Audio-Technica’s Machida facility, where each unit is meticulously assembled from components built in-house and then rigorously tested before leaving the factory. 

Launching alongside the ATH-R70xa is the ATH-R50x, which offers a versatile, professional-level performance thanks to its pure open-back design. Made for critical listening, the ATH-R50x delivers a natural, expansive soundstage, surprising bass power, and accurate upper midrange, making it ideal for handling everything from detailed vocals to instrumental clarity.

Built with re-engineered drivers modelled after the original ATH-R70x, the ATH-R50x combines a dynamic audio experience with comfort and durability for long studio sessions. Perfect for mixing, mastering, or creating, both the ATH-R70xa and the ATH-R50x provide precise, reliable reference across stereo, surround, and immersive formats, making them a versatile choice for any professional or home studio.

Features: ATH-R70xa 

• Professional open-back reference headphones provide the perfect balance of accuracy, transparency and comfort for discerning engineers, producers and musicians.
• Fully open-back design allows unrestricted airflow to eliminate internal resonance and provide extremely quick transient response. 
• Carbon composite resin improves structural rigidity to provide detailed transient response.
• Extended frequency response (5 – 40,000 Hz) ensures transparent, detailed reproduction.
• Japanese craftsmanship: Each pair of headphones is meticulously assembled from components built in-house, then rigorously tested before leaving our Tokyo factory.
• Featherlight (199g) design with streamlined, metal-reinforced construction, reimagined headband, and replaceable velour earpads deliver unmatched comfort for long working sessions.
• Unique, dual-sided 3.0 m (9.8′) detachable locking cable is L/R signal independent to ensure proper stereo orientation.
• Includes a 6.3 mm (1/4″) adapter and a carrying pouch.

Features: ATH-R50x 

• Professional open-back reference headphones with extended bass and accurate midrange provide exceptional all-around performance for demanding audio production 
• Fully open-back design allows unrestricted airflow to eliminate internal resonance and provide extremely quick transient response 
• Wide, realistic soundstage provides an immersive listening experience
• Durable, lightweight (207g) construction and a new headband design ensure long-lasting comfort
• Comes with two detachable cables (3.0 m (9.8′) and 1.2 m (3.9′)) each with a 2.5 mm twist-lock connector at the left earcup and a 3.5 (1/8″) gold-plated stereo mini-plug
• Includes a 6.3 mm (1/4″) adapter and a carrying pouch

Availability 

The Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa headphone will be available from 23rd January 2025. The ATH-R50x will be available shortly after. Both models will be exclusively available at Thomann for launch. ATH-R70xa will retail for £299 / €349, and ATH-R50x will retail for £139 / €169. Find out more at www.thomann.co.uk.

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