Audio Technica ATH AD700X

Audio Technica ATH AD700X

I bought this Headphone over at Comex 2016. Prior to purchasing this headphone, I tested several headphones which include the Sony MDR 1A, Sony XB750AP, Sony MDR Z7, Seinnheiser (not sure the model), Bose QC25, Armaggeddon Molotov 3 and Audio Technica (a few models).

I would say the Sony MDR 1A is impressive and it has a 40mm dynamic driver unit. The price at S$399 is quite expensive. The MDR Z7 has a price tag of more than S$800 in Singapore but performance wise, I would think it is comparable to MDR 1A. The Bose QC25 is also quite good but it is another expensive unit at S$429 with noise cancelling function. The QC25 is also light and suitable for travelling. The Armaggeddon Molotov 3 is impressive in its base sound and more importantly the price is only S$29. I almost bought this if not because of its colour (bright yellow, bright red and camouflage). This is meant to target the young. My test song was consistently Debbie Gibson "Out of the Blue" which has a good balance of bass, mid range vocal and treble.

Finally, I bought the Audio Technica ATH AD700X at S$158.

The good points of the AD700X :- 53mm driver unit (even bigger than the Sony MDR 1A). Frequency response is 5 to 30000 Hz. I find this a gimmick as the human hearing is only 20 to 20000 Hz and hearing deteriorates with age. The Price is fantastic. Good at mid to high pitch sound. Good Clarity. The earpads are in cotton fabric which is comfortable over time, but it could get hot with prolong listening. It has a 3m long cable.  Personally, I do not like PVC earpads that cover the whole ear.

The bad points of the AD700X:- Heavy (at 265g, it is heavier than MDR 1A) and big size. Not suitable for travelling. Not very strong at low frequency level. Plastic components.

Other features:- Open Air Feature. (See photo). The box says designed and engineered in Japan.