ADG1X – not to be confused with AG1X, its smaller, closed-cup counterpart – is Audio-Technica’s flagship gaming headset. Following our positive review of the company’s wireless HiFi headphones, the M50xBT, we assess whether the ADG1X achieves a similar level of performance. Audio-Technica, well-regarded for its microphones, leverages its audio engineering expertise to deliver a gaming headset with exceptional sound quality, accuracy, and clarity.
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ATH ADG1X – Design, Ergonomics, and Technology
The ADG1X is a wired, substantial headset, representing one of the larger gaming headsets we’ve evaluated, yet maintaining a weight of only 285 grams. Marketed as “Open Air,” its open-back earcups create a significantly wider soundstage compared to closed-back designs employing active noise cancellation (ANC). This design permits some ambient sound leakage, which may be a consideration depending on the user’s environment. The ADG1X incorporates a non-removable microphone and a fixed audio cable featuring an in-line volume control. This control offers a quick mute function for the microphone, along with volume adjustment for the headphones. A microphone pop filter is included. Compatibility extends to PS4, Mac, and PC (via an adapter for separating microphone and audio signals), but may be limited with Xbox One (microphone functionality may not be supported, although audio output should function via newer Xbox One S controllers).
Initial impressions are somewhat mixed. The earcups exhibit a stylish aesthetic, featuring a black metal grille and a Hi-Fi-inspired construction. The large, 53 mm dynamic drivers compensate for potential bass attenuation inherent in the open-back design, aiming for a frequency response of 5Hz to 35,000 Hz (a range exceeding typical human hearing). The impedance is rated at 48 ohms, suggesting that a dedicated amplifier or DAC may enhance performance. The remainder of the design incorporates plastic elements, prioritizing durability. The headband utilizes Audio-Technica’s “3D Wings,” employing two adjustable flaps to conform to various head shapes. The fit proves comfortable, with breathable fabric in the earcups. However, the plastic flaps exhibit some flexibility, and care should be taken to avoid excessive compression of the headphones during transport.
The in-line volume control and mute button present a somewhat unconventional design choice. While the intention is clear, the analog signal path (via a standard 3.5mm connector) raises questions about potential signal degradation introduced by the volume control’s resistor. In our testing, this did not present any discernible issues. To mitigate any potential impact, we primarily used the headphones with the in-line volume at maximum, adjusting volume at the source. The volume wheel’s calibration is also noteworthy, exhibiting minimal change across most of its rotation, followed by a rapid increase in volume towards the end of its travel. Furthermore, activating the mute button produced audible “popping” sounds for other players, indicating a potential limitation of this analog implementation.
The initial impression of the 1.2-meter cable may be concerning. However, closer inspection reveals that the included splitter cable also functions as a 2-meter extension, providing ample length for various usage scenarios, from PC gaming to connecting to a TV from a distance. This design also avoids excessive cable slack when connecting directly to a PS4 controller. While functional, the extension cable’s build quality could be improved.
ATH ADG1X – Audio Performance
The ADG1X delivers impressive sound quality, surpassing many dedicated gaming headsets currently available. Its audio signature more closely resembles that of a dedicated Hi-Fi headphone. When listening to music, the sound is clean, clear, and well-balanced. While Dr. Dre’s Xxplosive may lack some of the deep bass response found in closed-back headphones, the expansive soundstage provides a more engaging listening experience. Singer-songwriter music, such as Carolina Wallin Perez’s rendition of Kent’s Pärlor, benefits from the headset’s clarity and detail. Pop music (e.g., Madonna) exhibits a crispness, while hard rock retains its power without becoming harsh or muddy. The ADG1X is a versatile choice for music enthusiasts, although its size and fixed microphone may limit its portability.
While versatile with music, the ADG1X is ultimately a gaming headset. Its performance in games is exceptional, offering a high-resolution audio experience with clear instrumentation, a wide midrange, and a detailed soundstage. Cinematic AAA titles with elaborate audio design, such as Spider-Man and Red Dead Redemption 2, are brought to life with immersive audio. The bass response is ample, and dialogue is reproduced with clarity. However, the surround sound simulation is somewhat limited. Compared to the Plantronics 800HS, the ADG1X offers superior fidelity, but the Plantronics headset may provide a more immersive surround experience in games like Darksiders II.
This does not imply that the ADG1X is unsuitable for FPS and position-based games. Its performance remains strong in these genres. In DICE’s Battlefield V, the headset’s clarity and detail enhance the immersive qualities of the game’s audio, allowing for precise identification of enemy positions based on sound cues. The clarity of voice communication, especially in cutscenes, further enhances the sense of immersion. The ADG1X effectively transfers the high-fidelity audio quality previously associated with high-resolution music and film to the gaming domain. Furthermore, the headset performs admirably when used for film viewing, particularly with high-quality audio sources such as DTS.
For users seeking to maximize the headset’s potential, pairing it with a dedicated DAC can further improve audio quality, particularly when using devices with limited output power, such as the PS4 controller.
The microphone also deserves mention. As expected from a company renowned for its microphones, the ADG1X’s microphone delivers excellent sound quality. Its performance is suitable for game streaming and recording, exhibiting surprisingly high fidelity for a gaming headset.
ATH ADG1X – Conclusion and Rating
Identifying significant drawbacks with the ADG1X is challenging. The price point, nearing 3,000 SEK, represents a considerable investment for many gamers. The design, while functional, may not appeal to all users, and the size, combined with the fixed microphone, primarily suits home use. However, its sonic performance is undeniable. The ADG1X offers exceptional clarity and high-fidelity audio, setting a new standard for gaming headsets. While its focus is on stereo sound, the open-back design enhances spatial awareness, making it suitable for games where positional audio is crucial, such as FPS titles. The thoughtful design, including the extension cable, contributes to a positive user experience. The in-line volume control and mute button could be improved, but these are not significant deficiencies.
Ultimately, the value proposition hinges on the user’s prioritization of audio quality. While many users may find satisfactory performance at a lower price point, the ADG1X represents a premium option. While it’s difficult to definitively state that the Audio-Technica ADG1X offers 50% better sound than our wireless reference headphones for PS4, the Plantronics 800HS (which offer a more pronounced surround sound experience and wireless convenience), the ATH ADG1X demonstrably delivers a higher level of audio fidelity. Its performance rivals that of studio headphones aimed at discerning audiophiles, making it a desirable gift for discerning gamers and a new benchmark for gaming audio.
