Audio-Technica makes (sound) waves at CES

One of the most impressive booths at CES in terms of the variety of new product offerings was Audio-Technica.

Audio-Technica is introducing a diverse range of products across a number of categories. The products on exhibit include the company’s first truly wireless noise-cancelling in-ear headphones, the elegant AT-LPW50PB turntable, high-performance headphones with exotic wood finishes, an all-new line of mics for podcasting and streaming, and more.

Here is what Audio-Technica showed off at CES:

The QuietPoint® ATH-ANC300TW truly wireless in-ear headphones combine next-generation truly wireless technology with newly-designed digital hybrid active noise-cancelling (ANC) electronics. The result is improved high-fidelity sound and superior noise cancelling performance, all without requiring any connecting wires.

The ATH-ANC300TW (SRP: US$249.00, available spring 2020) includes digital hybrid noise-cancellation that places the ANC microphones both in front of and behind the driver, with one of the mics mounted in a unique horizontal configuration within the sound chamber. This enables an ideal balance of ambient noise reduction and audio performance. The ATH-ANC300TW supports Bluetooth® 5.0, aptX™ and other codecs for the best-possible wireless audio reproduction and has an easy to use control system for music playback. Its hear-through function allows some ambient sound to be heard if the listener wants to be aware of his or her outside environment. The ATH-ANC300TW also features Qualcomm® TrueWireless™ Stereo Plus, a special low-latency function that ensures that users can stream audio with a stable connection. Its operation can be customized with the AT Connect smartphone app.

The ATH-CKS5TW and its ATH-CK3TW truly wireless in-ear headphones (SRP: US$169.00 and US$119.00, currently available). Both offer long-lasting battery life, Bluetooth 5.0 wireless technology and outstanding audio quality including aptX™. Available in a variety of colors, both feature an Auto Power On/Off feature that automatically turns the headphones on and connects to a paired smartphone, portable digital audio player or other compatible device when they’re removed from their case.

The ATH-CKS5TW and ATH-CK3TW deliver enhanced audio quality during phone calls thanks to Qualcomm® cVc™ Clear Voice Capture that improves clarity during phone conversations. Both models are also perfect for fitness-oriented users thanks to their IPX2 water resistance rating. The ATH-CKS5TW is compatible with the AT Connect app, and the ATH-CK3TW features Qualcomm TrueWireless Stereo Plus for reliable streaming.

The AT-LPW50PB belt-drive turntable (SRP: US$399.00, available spring 2020) combines an exceptional high-fidelity listening experience with a stunning, high-gloss piano black finish that complements any music system. The turntable provides 33-1/3 and 45 RPM speeds and its belt drive, professional-grade aluminum platter, speed sensor-monitored motor and anti-resonance plinth (base) ensure quiet, stable playback. The AT-LPW50PB’s straight-line carbon fiber tonearm is fitted with an AT-VM95E moving magnet (MM) phono cartridge in black. The AT-LPW50PB features a built-in phono preamp and is supplied with all necessary cables and accessories.

The high-performance over-ear ATH-AWKT and ATH-AWAS audiophile and over-ear ATH-WP900 portable headphones combine beautifully crafted woods with superb sound quality, and the ATH-IEX1 features an exclusive hybrid multi-driver system for an unmatched in-ear listening experience. All four models offer Hi-Res Audio capability and all come with detachable standard and balanced cables, enabling their use with a wide range of electronics including high-end headphone amps and audio components.

Meticulously handcrafted in Tokyo, the ATH-AWKT, ATH-AWAS and ATH-WP900 (SRP: US$1,899.00, US$1,399.00, US$650.00, available March 2020) feature housings from prized Kokutan (striped ebony), Asada Zakura (ironwood) and flamed maple wood. The high density of these woods suppresses unwanted resonances to contribute to the headphones’ clear, natural sound. They all feature large-diameter drivers with high-flux-density magnetic circuits, a D.A.D.S. Double Air Damping System for increased and articulate bass output (models ATH-AWKT and ATH-AWAS) and other refinements.

Audio-Technica’s ATH-IEX1 (SRP: US$1,200.00, available January 2020) sets a new standard for in-ear listening thanks to its hybrid multi-driver system that employs dual-phase drivers plus two balanced armature drivers. The drivers are mounted along a coaxial line inside solid titanium housings. This configuration provides reduced distortion, extended high-frequency reproduction and increased bass.

The ATH-SPORT90BT features a built-in music player and along with the new ATH-SPORT60BT includes a host of fitness-friendly features including IPX5 waterproof-rated construction, a built-in mic and controls for smartphone and portable device operation, and comfortable stay-in-place designs. Both feature built-in headphone amplifiers and improved high-sensitivity drivers for impactful, immersive sound.

Audio-Technica’s SonicSport ATH-SPORT90BT (SRP: US$159.00, available spring 2020) includes a built-in 4GB music player, making it the ultimate portable music device – no need to carry a smartphone around during workouts. The headphones can also be paired with a smartphone or other Bluetooth device.

The ATH-SPORT90BT provides a switchable ambient noise hear-through function that gives a choice of hearing environmental sounds for safer use outdoors or blocking them for more private listening. When not in use, the ATH-SPORT90BT can be secured around the wearer’s neck using magnets built into the earbuds; this also pauses music playback. The ATH-SPORT90BT offers a voice confirmation feature that tells listeners when various functions are engaged such as power on/off, Bluetooth connection status, low battery level and more.

The ATH-SPORT60BT (SRP: US$79.00, available spring 2020) offers a multipoint pairing function that allows connection to two Bluetooth devices at once. It has many of the features of the ATH-SPORT90BT including high-sensitivity drivers and a built-in headphone amplifier for powerful full-range music reproduction, a voice confirmation function, interchangeable ear tips and ear fins for a perfect fit, and a USB-C/USB-A charging cable.

The ATR Series microphones feature improved performance and restyled designs, depending on the model. The mics are ideal for a wide range of consumer and “prosumer” applications including streaming, podcasting, recording, live performance and more.

ATR Series models include the following:

ATR2500x-USB streaming/podcasting/recording microphone (SRP: US$149.00) ATR2100x-USB streaming/recording microphone (SRP: US$119.00) ATR6550x video/recording shotgun microphone (SRP: US$79.00) ATR6250x video/recording stereo microphone (SRP: US$59.00) ATR4697-USB digital tabletop microphone (SRP: US$35.00) ATR4750-USB digital gooseneck microphone (SRP: US$24.99) ATR4650-USB digital surface-mount/clip-on microphone (SRP: US$24.99) ATR3350xiS clip-on microphone (SRP: US$35.00) ATR1500x vocal/instrument microphone (SRP: US$59.00) ATR1300x vocal/instrument microphone (SRP: US$35.00) ATR1200x vocal/instrument microphone (SRP: US$24.99) ATR1100x vocal/instrument microphone (SRP: US$19.99)

The ATR2x-USB 3.5 mm to USB-C digital adapter (SRP: US$19.99) converts any microphone or headphones with a 3.5 mm (1/8-inch) plug into a USB-compatible device. All models are currently available.

Audio-Technica is featuring its high-performance OC9X Series cartridges. Each AT-OC9X Series model features a Dual Moving Coil structure, which enables the audio information in the record grooves to be separated to the left and right channels with pinpoint accuracy. This improved channel separation results in a more precise stereo image and wider frequency response.

AT-OC9X Series cartridges are currently available with a choice of stylus types including Special Line Contact (AT-OC9XSL), Shibata (AT-OC9XSH), microlinear (AT-OC9XML), nude elliptical (AT-OC9XEN) and bonded elliptical (AT-OC9XEB). The cartridges are made from premium materials such as boron or aluminum cantilevers, PCOCC copper wiring, high-power magnets and anti-resonance aluminum bodies.

Pricing is as follows: AT-OC9XSL, US$729.00; AT-OC9XSH, US$649.00; AT-OC9XML, US$549.00; AT-OC9XEN, US$349.00; AT-OC9XEB, US$239.00.

Taking design inspiration from the company’s industry-standard ATH-M50x pro audio headphones, Audio-Technica’s ATH-G1WL wireless and ATH-G1 gaming headsets deliver powerful, spacious audio quality and crystal-clear in-game voice communication. Both headsets’ lightweight design allow gamers to enjoy even long playing sessions in total comfort.

The wired ATH-G1 (SRP: US$169.00, currently available) is compatible with computers, PlayStation 4, Xbox One and any platform with a 3.5 mm headset connector. It features specially tuned large-diameter 45 mm drivers to bring studio-quality sound to game audio. Its highly directional detachable boom mic delivers exceptional voice clarity while rejecting ambient noise and keyboard clicks.

The wireless ATH-G1WL (SRP: $249.00, currently available) adds stable, lag-free wireless connectivity, a long 15 hours of battery life and a virtual surround sound function for an even more immersive 3D audio gaming experience. Its wireless USB transceiver ensures compatibility with computers.

A reputation for quality, durability, performance and value has made Audio-Technica products the first choice for many of today’s top musical artists and audio engineers, and for discerning listeners everywhere.

Drawing from its audiophile heritage, Audio-Technica remains dedicated to providing music enthusiasts with great-sounding, innovative audio gear, including the award-winning QuietPoint® active noise-cancelling headphones, popular ATH-M50x monitor headphones, versatile USB microphones, and new Hi-Res Audio headphones and high-fidelity gaming headsets. Learn more at www.audio-technica.com.