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There’s always something exciting about getting a package
from Audio Technica in the post to review. Generally, we get
gaming-focused headsets – and these are the go-to for several
gamers in the office – but this month we get to check out two
new offerings from one of the most trusted names in audio.
First up are the ATH-MSR7s, a closed back headphone with an
emphasis on portability. They look street smart, the build quality
is excellent, and, importantly, they fit comfortably for a sustained
period of time thanks to the forgiving memory foam. They ship with
a 3m cable with standard 3.5mm jacks on either end, and a 1.2m
in-line remote and microphone for smartphone connectivity (and
other devices).
They look the part and are comfortable to wear, but what about the
most important thing – the sound? In a word, superb, punching well
above their weight. The treble is crisp and vast, mids are warm, and
bass, for this listener anyway, is perfect – it's present without being too
intrusive, although bass-heads may find it a little light for their tastes.
Overall, the sound is accurate.
If you’re in the market for a quality audio headset that won’t force you
to steal money from your partner, the search is over – you’ve found what
you’re looking for.
Listen
In
Looking for a quality set of audio headphones on an affordable budget?
Audio Technica may just have the solution.
Most audiophiles will avoid Bluetooth headphones like the in-laws, but there
have been significant advances in the technology to counter the associated
negativity. Take for example the closed-back SR5BTs. Not only do they share
a similar aesthetic to the MSR7, albeit a little smaller, the SR5BTs also provide
the same level of comfort, with the memory foam cups ensuring a snug and
pleasant fit. Over long durations, the headphones remain comfortable without
feeling like your skull is being gradually crushed in a vice.
The controls are located behind each ear cup; power on the right and
playback controls, 3.5mm jack and microUSB port on the left. In the
box is a charging cable and 1.2m cable with a single touch remote
for answering calls on your smartphone. Although we didn’t map
it out to its full capacity, the SR5BTs can purportedly store up
to eight devices in its memory.
So how do they sound? It's hard to believe that Audio
Technica has managed to cram its quality 45mm drivers
into the cups, but it has. Definition across mids, highs and
bass is well-balanced with exceptional clarity, although
you’ll need to have the SRBTs connected via the cable to
achieve full hi-res. Battery life comes in at an impressive 38
hours on a single charge. Complete with a handy carry case,
if you’re on the hunt for a quality Bluetooth audio headset,
the ATH-SR5BTs are worth your investment.
ATH-SR5BT
ATH–MSR7
visit
stack.net.au84
jbhifi.com.auNOVEMBER
2016
TECH
FEATURE