Audio-Technica is extending its range of reference open-back headphones with three complementary models: the ATH-R30x, ATH-R50x and ATH-R70xa. All are designed to deliver natural, detailed and vast sound for music creation, mixing or immersion at home. Open design, marked lightness, large-diameter transducers: what does each model offer, and what can it be used for?
Audio-Technica ATH-R30x: the entry ticket
Designed for home studios and first professional projects, the Audio-Technica ATH-R30x hi-fi headphones feature an open architecture and 40mm transducers. This approach favors airy sound diffusion, with a clear, natural reproduction and controlled distortion. The soundstage unfolds with fullness to give depth to recordings and mixes.
In terms of comfort, the R30x weighs 210g. The adjustable headband distributes this weight evenly, while replaceable velvet-covered memory foam ear pads ensure optimum comfort. The open-back ear cups let air circulate to allow for extended music sessions and to prevent overheating. With a sensitivity of 92 dB/mW and an impedance of 36 Ω, the Audio-Technica ATH-R30x headphones are relatively simple to drive. The fixed 3-meter cable features a gold-plated 3.5mm mini-jack source connector. It also comes with a 6.35mm jack adapter.
Audio-Technica ATH-R50x: total openness and assertive dynamics
The Audio-Technica ATH-R50x open-back hi-fi headphones provide analytical listening for demanding production. Its 45mm dynamic transducers deliver powerful bass for an open model, with precise upper mids to enhance the clarity of vocals and solo instruments. The fully open design allows smooth airflow and a faster transient response.
At 207g, the headphones’ construction is lightweight, and the headband has been redesigned for long-lasting wear. The ATH-R50x headphones are also distinguished by their removable, single-sided connector: they come with two cables (3m and 1.2m) with a locking 3.5mm connector at the earpiece end, and a gold-plated 3.5mm mini-jack source connector. A 6.3mm adapter and carrying pouch are also included. The technical specifications indicate a sensitivity of 93.3 dB/mW for 50Ω impedance.
Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa: a flagship offering precision and transparency
The Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa is the flagship of the series, continuing the philosophy of the ATH-R70x, with added detail and precision. The completely open design highlights the performance of the 45mm dynamic transducers. Carbon composite resin reinforces structural rigidity for clean transients and very low distortion. The result is a natural, balanced reproduction and realistic placement of instruments and vocals in the soundstage, suitable for stereo, multichannel and immersive mixing.
Comfort remains a priority, with a weight of just 199g, streamlined metal reinforcement, a new headband and replaceable velvet pads. In terms of measurements, the ATH-R70xa headphones boast a sensitivity of 97 dB/mW and an impedance of 470Ω. It comes with a detachable 3-meter Y-cable, a 6.35mm jack adapter and a soft pouch. This flagship of the Audio-Technica R-Series range is assembled by hand at the Machida factory, where it undergoes rigorous testing by the brand that has been developing hi-fi headphones since 1974.
Audio-Technica R-Series headphones: what are the differences?
The three headphones in the Audio-Technica R-Series share a spacious sound reproduction, but their architecture diverges. The ATH-R30x model adopts an open design intended to broaden the soundstage and to provide ease of use for creative work and detailed everyday listening sessions.
The ATH-R50x and ATH-R70xa headphones accentuate the aperture at the rear of the transducers to free airflow, reduce internal resonance and increase transient responsiveness. This makes them ideal for mixing and mastering, where micro-dynamics and spatial localization play a key role.
Audio-Technica R-Series: key specifications
| ATH-R30x | ATH-R50x | ATH-R70xa | |
| Transducers | 40mm | 45mm | 45mm |
| Frequency response | 15Hz to 25kHz | 5Hz to 40kHz | 5Hz to 40kHz |
| Sensitivity | 92 dB | 93.3 dB | 97 dB |
| Impedance | 36 ohms | 50 ohms | 470 ohms |
| Power rating | 1000mW | 1600mW | 1000mW |
| Cable | Y-shaped, fixed, 3.5mm mini-jack source connector | Single-sided, detachable, 3.5mm mini-jack source connector + 6.35mm jack adapter | Y-shaped, detachable, 3.5mm mini-jack source connector + 6.35mm jack adapter |
| Weight | 210g | 207g | 199g |
| Price | €99 | €169 | €349 |
Summary
The Audio-Technica R series offers three complementary proposals for outstanding open-back sound. The ATH-R30x model provides an accessible entry point for home-studio and detailed listening. The ATH-R50x headphones enhance dynamics and speed, thanks to a fully open design and 45mm transducers for demanding productions. For its part, the ATH-R70xa is a precise tool for sound engineers, with extended transparency. Three headphones that prioritize a wide soundstage, comfort and reliability, for uses ranging from creation to mastering.
