Audio-Technica is known for producing audiophile headphones at affordable prices. But, since their lineup is so extensive, it can be challenging to choose between models. Therefore, we’ve created this comparison between the ATH-AD500X and the AD700X to help you find the best fit for your needs.
Both sets of headphones feature a comfortable, open-back design and offer an immersive audio experience. Still, there are crucial differences between them that may make or break your experience. Let’s examine each in detail before we compare them.
Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones (AUD ATHAD500X)
Both the ATH-AD500X and the AD700X use the Open-Air Dynamic technology that lowers pressure on the ears. This style is different from closed-back headphones that isolate sound. Instead, open-air headphones allow the wearer to hear outside noise for a wide soundstage and surround-sound experience. (As a result, sometimes others can hear what the wearer is listening to). The design also has the pleasant side effect of keeping the ears cooler.
If you examine the AD500X, it feels lightweight and puts little to no pressure on the ears. It has a featherweight honeycomb aluminum case and flexible fabric ear pads. The headset looks a little strange with the 3D wing support housing, but it contributes to the comfortable fit and excellent sound. It automatically adjusts to the user’s head size.
We appreciate the long 9.84-foot cable with the gold-plated 1/8-inch connector. Audio-Technica explains that they use oxygen-free copper with excellent conductivity and corrosion resistance. It’s encased in a TPE sheath that resists tangling and damage. The box also includes a 1/4-inch adapter.
If you look through the honeycomb casing, you can see the 53 mm driver coils. These CCAW voice coils reproduce a wide range of nuances, from powerful bass to crystal-clear vocalizations.
Now, let’s look at the competition.
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones
On the surface, the AD700X closely resembles the AD500X. It has the same build with a honeycombed aluminum casing, fabric ear pads, and 3D wing support on the headset for a natural fit. There’s also a long cable terminating in a gold-plated stereo plug. And there’s a 1/4-inch adapter in the box.
The internals are similar, with 53 mm drivers and bobbin-wound CCAW voice coils for a wide range of clear, natural sounds. However, there are essential differences for audiophiles.
Let’s start with the product names. The number gives a clue to the first dissimilarity. The AD500X accepts a maximum input power of 500 mW, while the AD700X receives 700 mW.
Next, the frequency response also varies. The AD500X ranges from 5 – 25,000 Hz. Meanwhile, the AD700X has a broader range of 5 – 30,000 Hz. While it’s true that human hearing isn’t typically sensitive to frequencies above 20,000 Hz, the difference remains.
As for the sensitivity, both headphones are rated for 100 dB per milliwatt. But the impedance differs, and that matters quite a bit. The higher the impedance, the lower the distortion and the clearer the sound. So, in this case, the AD700X has a clear advantage.
Now that we’ve gone over the features of the ATH-AD500X and the ATH-AD700X, let’s zero in on which is the best.
Recommendation
The first question to ask is whether you’ll enjoy open-back headphones. You won’t be satisfied if you require isolation from sounds in the environment. However, if you’re typically in a quiet place for listening, we suspect that you’ll appreciate the natural-sounding reproduction.
Following that, consider how you’ll use the headphones. Remember, both pairs are wired and don’t have a built-in microphone. On a bright note, the cord is long, durable, and resists tangling. It’s compatible with stereo and mobile devices that have compatible jacks.
Moreover, both sets of headphones are comfortable for hours of continuous wear. They don’t get hot like closed-back headphones, and they feel feather-light on the head and ears. The 3D wings may look a little unusual, but they virtually eliminate pressure and automatically adjust to fit.
But in the end, what matters most is sound quality. If you’re an audiophile, we recommend the AD700X. It has higher impedance and a wider frequency response, giving it superior performance for the whole range of sound. Everything will feel crystal clear and immersive.
Click here to purchase Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X on Amazon.com
Click here to purchase Audio-Technica AD700X on Amazon.com