Dec/090
Audio-Technica Introduces the ATH-ANC1 QuietPoint On-Ear Headphones
Audio-Technica announced these days the introduction of its latest pair of headphones, namely the ATH-ANC1 QuietPoint active noise cancelling on-ear headphones. These are a compact model of on-ear headphones that will supply users with the most outstanding performance, comfort and value (Win! If they sport at least one of those above decent), even though the company doesn’t mention the range of the performance, whether it is the accuracy, SPL or the noise-reduction feature.
The maker claims that its proprietary active noise-cancelling (ANC) technology the ATH-ANC1 incorporate is capable of blocking and keeping out up to 85% of the background noise, at the same time delivering a crisp and clear natural sound. As the headphones were developed for maximum convenience, they can be folded for easy storage and travel in the included carrying pouch.
Getting to the ANC a little, we notice that the ATH-ANC1 has the active noise cancelling circuitry on the exterior, in a module attached to the connecting cord, as to keep the headphones themselves as lightweight as possible for the wearer, while soft and long wearing ear pads complete the comfort for long hours of listening sessions along distant trips. Just like all Audio-Technica QuietPoint headphones, the ATH-ANC1 senses environmental noise via miniature built-in microphones, and applies a corresponding sound-cancelling signal.
Even with the stated powerful, immersive sound Audio-Technica claims the ATH-ANC1 has, there is no mentioning of any frequency response of the so-called precision high-efficiency full-range drivers (they’re already contradicting themselves by just those three words), as well as the premium internal components. Bundled with a 0.48m extension cord, an airline adapter and one AAA battery, the Audio-Technica ATH-ANC1 come for a retail price of $129.95.
Nov/090
Audio Chi Has Two Funky Headphones Available
I’ve seen and written about so many headphones that I thought I knew all the companies out there, but as always, Murphy’s laws can be related, therefore, Audio Chi has been brought to my eyes. I must admit that I didn’t hear about this manufacturer until today, when I came across its W series headphones, namely the W2 and W5, that are truly eye-candy.
First of them, the W2 is the headphone model that is a little kitschy, but not too bad regarding design. The little kitschy part is also probably induced by the fact that I personally disagree with purple on devices, nevertheless, the W2 look astounding.
Not only bringing a neat design, but also providing precision engineering to users thanks to the company’s Structural Acoustic technology. Also lightweight, the headphones will ensure a comfy wearing experience, as well as listening, being compatible with all portable audio devices that have a jack output.
As both headphone models share the same technical specifications, I’ll tell you those right after saying that I really like the design of the W5 model, even if it comes in purple. Fact is, I actually don’t like purple as the main color, but rather like it as an accent, just like the dots on the Audio Chi W5.
The W2 and W5 boast 40mm Titanium Mylar drivers that have a 112dB sensitivity, with +/- 3dB rated next to the sound pressure level. That’s probably -3dB for the sub-frequency range and definitely +3dB for the mid-high range. Frequency range is said to be starting at 16Hz and ending all the way up to 22,000Hz, while the maximum input level these will take is 100mW or 1.79V.