Audio-Technica has launched its new ATH-R30x open-back headphones after offering a sneak peek of the surprisingly affordable cans at January's NAMM Show.
The headphones are designed for content creators and home-based music producers, and aim to deliver what Audio-Technica describes as a "clear, detailed sound signature with minimal distortion."
This characteristic is apparently made possible by the headphones' open-back design, which allows sound to flow naturally from the drivers with minimal additional tuning or damping.
Available now, the ATH-R30x positions itself as an affordable entry point to high-quality reference headphones, retailing at £85 / $99 / €99 / AU$219.
For context, that's cheaper than the Grado SR80x – a pair of five-star-rated wired open-back headphones we are fond of – which was reviewed at £129.95 / $125 / AU$179 at launch, but can currently be found on offer at £99 in the UK.
A similarly priced alternative can also be found in the five-star £89 / $119 Austrian Audio Hi-X15, although do note that this is a closed-backed design so will offer a different listening experience to the open-backed Audio-Technicas.
At the heart of the ATH-R30x are enhanced 40mm drivers that are designed to reproduce audio with balanced frequency response across well-defined lows, transparent mids, and smooth, extended highs.
This approach aims to create a spacious, realistic soundstage that should, in theory, provide an immersive listening experience.
Comfort appears to be a key consideration too, with the ATH-R30x featuring an adjustable headband that distributes weight evenly across the head.
The soft velour earpads and breathable construction are designed to ensure long-term wearing comfort, though we’ve yet to test them out in person to confirm how well they’d hold up to extended listening sessions. The ATH-R30x weighs a lightweight 210g, however, which makes us optimistic for long-term comfort.
While primarily positioned for studio and production work, Audio-Technica also suggests that the headphones are equally suited for gaming and detailed everyday listening. Each pair comes supplied with a 6.3mm adapter so it can be used with a variety of home hi-fi kit.
We look forward to taking them for a spin and sharing our full thoughts in due course.
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