This review focuses on a product designed for content creators, music producers, and discerning listeners who prioritize audio fidelity. The Audio Technica ATH-E70, while released several years ago, exemplifies the enduring relevance of wired headphones, which are less susceptible to obsolescence compared to their Bluetooth counterparts. A prime example is the Sennheiser HD-600, a model over two decades old that remains a staple for many music professionals. Our objective is to evaluate whether these compact monitor headphones, suitable for both stage and studio environments, maintain their relevance in today’s competitive headphone market. Despite their niche appeal, they represent a significant offering.
First Impression – ATH-E70
Wired headphones possess a certain allure, perhaps stemming from the association with larger, over-ear models and their inherent characteristics. The physical connection seems to imply a commitment to analog purity. While advancements in audio codecs have narrowed the gap, subtle differences persist. For instance, the wired AirPods Max offer high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/192kHz via a recent Apple update, though hardware limitations restrict it to 48kHz. The ATH-E70, naturally, avoids such constraints. Furthermore, concerns regarding software updates or battery life are non-existent. The primary consideration is ensuring a compatible connection. This factor should be included in the initial assessment.
The ATH-E70 includes a high-quality case for storing the headphones and the assortment of included ear tips. Four sizes are provided, along with a pair of memory foam tips designed to enhance sound isolation. The case also accommodates a compact DAC for mobile use with devices lacking a 3.5mm headphone jack. During our testing, we utilized the Moondrop Echo-A, supporting up to 32-bit/384kHz, to connect the ATH-E70 to a smartphone. A 6.3 mm adapter is also included. The specified frequency range is 20 to 19,000 Hz, which is narrower than some contemporary headphones. While this encompasses the range of human hearing, a wider frequency response can offer advantages in professional applications.
Audio Technica’s design goal for the ATH-E70 was to deliver exceptional sound from a compact form factor. Each earpiece incorporates three balanced armature drivers engineered for neutral and accurate sound reproduction. Coupled with the memory foam ear tips, the ATH-E70 is well-suited as a reference headphone in live performance settings. Despite this technology, each earpiece weighs only 9g (without the cable), contributing to a comfortable experience.
The important thing – the sound!
For comparative analysis, we used a pair of Shure SE-215 earphones. While the configurations are similar, our test setup compensated for two advantages held by the SE-215s: extensive usage resulting in optimal driver performance and a perfectly molded fit. These factors provide the SE-215s with an inherent edge. However, given that the SE-215s retail for approximately one-quarter of the ATH-E70’s price, a significant performance differential is expected. And indeed, one exists. The ATH-E70 delivers a significantly more articulated and refined soundstage.
Even after 24 hours of burn-in, the ATH-E70 still suggested further sonic development. While quantifying this perceived change is subjective, the soundstage noticeably expanded during the initial hours of use, indicating ongoing driver settling. Fit also played a role. While we experimented with the largest ear tips, they initially caused some discomfort after extended use, likely a temporary issue. Once properly fitted with the appropriate tips, the sonic performance was exceptional. Achieving optimal comfort is therefore crucial for realizing the ATH-E70’s full potential.
The initial high-frequency response exhibited some harshness. However, with continued use, the various frequency ranges coalesced into a more cohesive and smooth presentation, leaving clarity and precision intact. The midrange performance is outstanding, complemented by a remarkably wide soundstage. This characteristic is particularly evident in AIR – Casanova 70, where instruments are panned dramatically from left to right, creating a distinct sense of spatial separation. The bass response is equally impressive – articulate, convincing, and true to the original recording, without any artificial exaggeration. In Christian Sandquist – Fence Love, the bass frequencies are reproduced with a palpable sense of depth and impact.
The ATH-E70’s capabilities truly shine with Apparat – Goodbye (the theme from the Netflix series Dark). This complex track features a dynamic arrangement of sounds across a wide range of frequencies, posing a significant challenge for any headphone. The ATH-E70 renders the distinctive bass drum with remarkable fidelity. Subtle nuances, such as the whispered vocals, are reproduced with exceptional clarity and placement, creating an immersive experience. The headphones flawlessly deliver the song’s meticulously crafted details. Switching to the Bluetooth-powered Technics EAH-AZ80, a former reference-level product until superseded by the Technics EAH-AZ100, revealed a noticeable difference. The ATH-E70 provided greater sonic weight and a more convincing overall presentation (despite the AZ80’s own impressive performance). The ATH-E70’s rendition of the track is captivating, encouraging repeated listening.
Conclusion Audio Technica ATH-E70
The ATH-E70 stands as a testament to the enduring quality of well-designed headphones, demonstrating that age is not necessarily a limiting factor. While the specified frequency range may not be the widest available, it proves sufficient for the vast majority of applications and does not compromise the perceived sonic performance. The soundstage is expansive, and the passive noise isolation is excellent, effectively blocking external sounds even without active noise cancellation. This characteristic makes the ATH-E70 particularly suitable for live environments.
The primary drawback of the ATH-E70 is its price. Retailing around 4,000 kronor, these headphones represent a significant investment. However, for musicians and audio professionals seeking a high-quality, portable reference headphone solution, the ATH-E70 is an excellent choice. Allow ample burn-in time to fully realize their sonic potential, as their performance improves noticeably with use. Our testing likely only represents the initial stages of their performance capabilities.
Audio Technica provided the review samples for this evaluation. The provision of review units does not influence our editorial independence. Our reviews are conducted objectively, with the interests of our readers and consumers as our foremost priority.
