Following the release of Audio Technica’s stylish and innovative ATH-TWX9 flagship earbuds, featuring UV cleaning, the highly anticipated successor has arrived. The Audio Technica ATH-TWX7 shares a similar design and case aesthetic with its predecessor. While these true wireless earbuds clearly build upon the ATH-TWX9’s foundation, several key distinctions emerge. Some of these changes represent improvements, while others involve the omission of features that defined the ATH-TWX9. In this review, we will examine the ways in which the ATH-TWX7 diverges from its predecessor, despite their superficial similarities.
Overall Audio Technica ATH-TWX7
Audio Technica has consistently impressed with their comprehensive packaging, including high-quality and functional accessories. In contrast, the unboxing experience of the ATH-TWX7 felt somewhat underwhelming. The box’s construction seemed less robust, and the earbuds were contained within small bags that readily spilled onto the table. While this may seem minor, initial impressions matter.
The package includes two types of ear tips, varying in hardness and ranging in size from XS to L, a charging cable, and a fabric transport bag. The fabric bag proves to be a surprisingly practical and welcome addition, even for a pair of in-ear headphones. Control is facilitated through a combination of physical and touch buttons on each earcup, both of which are highly programmable. The physical button provides a valuable alternative, particularly when wearing headwear.
Parts we miss from ATH-TWX9…
One notable omission is the comprehensive set of ear tips included with the ATH-TWX9. Audio Technica distinguished itself by providing ear tips with three different depths, each available in four sizes. This innovative approach offered enhanced customization and fit.
Furthermore, the ATH-TWX9 provided clearer battery status indication through its case’s LEDs. The ATH-TWX7 relies on a single diode that changes color to indicate the case’s status. In contrast, the ATH-TWX9 also displayed the status of the earbuds themselves using different colors.
A notable design choice that impacts the overall rating is the absence of in-ear detection sensors for automatic music pausing upon removal of one or both earbuds. Given that this feature is now commonplace, its exclusion is a surprising drawback. Additionally, the ATH-TWX7 utilizes Bluetooth 5.1, which is somewhat disappointing considering the advancements offered by version 5.2.
Bluetooth 5.2 introduced LE Audio (Low Energy Audio), enabling higher audio quality with reduced energy consumption. More significantly, it enabled Multiple Synchronized Data Streams (MSDS), allowing both earbuds to communicate directly with the source device simultaneously. Previously, the signal was relayed from the source device to one earbud, and then to the other, which could lead to connection instability when one earbud was further from the source. Bluetooth 5.2 addresses this limitation.
…and parts we don’t miss.
The primary concern with the ATH-TWX9 was its integrated anti-bacterial UV cleaning function. While stylish and innovative, its inability to be disabled resulted in unnecessary battery drain for the case. This feature has been removed in the ATH-TWX7, which is a welcome change.
The inclusion of LDAC support is also a positive addition, addressing a prior limitation of the ATH-TWX9. However, Audio Technica’s implementation of LDAC in conjunction with multipoint connectivity is somewhat convoluted. Activating multipoint requires manual activation followed by disabling LDAC, necessitating a restart. Re-enabling LDAC then necessitates disabling multipoint, requiring another restart. This cumbersome process may lead users to prioritize one feature over the other. Competitors such as the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC and Technics EAH-AZ80 offer a significantly more streamlined experience.
News in ATH-TWX7
The ATH-TWX7 retains a valuable feature initially introduced with the ATH-TWX9: the ability to customize the volume increment steps (16, 32, or 64 steps, adjustable via the earbud controls). Furthermore, Audio Technica has enhanced the functionality with several well-implemented features in its companion app.
Similar to the Jabra Elite 10, the app offers a range of “soundscapes” categorized as Nature (forest, waterfall, waves, etc.), Healing (soft and soothing music), and Masking (white and pink noise). These soundscapes are notably well-executed, with seamless looping transitions, an area where Jabra has previously faced challenges. A personal favorite was the quiet forest soundscape, featuring wind through the trees, which significantly improved concentration. A timer and a Low Latency mode (which disables LDAC) are also included. Interestingly, these new features were not implemented in the ATH-TWX9’s app, suggesting that they are exclusive to the ATH-TWX7.
The sound experience
The ATH-TWX7, like its flagship counterpart, utilizes a 5.8 mm driver and delivers an enjoyable sound signature. However, the soundstage width and sense of spaciousness are somewhat lacking. While not dramatically deficient, the immersive warmth and simulated sub-bass sensation are absent. All frequency ranges are appropriately balanced, with no single element overpowering others. The bass is clear but lacks a certain depth, particularly noticeable in tracks like Hans Zimmer – Buyer Beware. Overall, the sound profile is balanced and cohesive, avoiding harsh trebles and presenting a clear, though slightly cool, midrange.
Conclusion Audio Technica ATH-TWX7
Overall, the ATH-TWX7 is a competent offering, but its value proposition is challenged by its price point relative to its omitted features. If Audio Technica aimed to create a pair of earbuds that nearly rival the flagship, they have largely succeeded. Certain compromises were made, such as the Bluetooth version and specific features on the case and earbuds. However, with the flagship still priced at 3,500 kronor in a competitive market, a 1,000 kronor reduction still results in a significant price tag of 2,500 kronor for the ATH-TWX7. At this price, numerous competitors offer superior acoustic performance, greater functionality, and more contemporary features. Examples in this price range include the Technics AZ60M2 and Jabra Elite 8 Active, both of which possess unique distinguishing features not found in the ATH-TWX7.
In summary: while not a poor product, its price is too high for what it offers.
Audio Technica provided review units for this evaluation. The provision of review materials does not influence our editorial independence. We maintain objectivity and prioritize the interests of our readers and consumers in our assessments.
