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Audio-Technica expands R-Series with three new open-back reference headphones
Published onJanuary 24, 2025
- Audio-Technica has unveiled three new professional open-back reference headphones at NAMM 2025: the flagship ATH-R70xa ($349), mid-tier ATH-R50x ($159), and entry-level ATH-R30x ($99), all designed for mixing, mastering, and content creation.
- The flagship ATH-R70xa features 45mm drivers and a 5Hz-40kHz frequency response.
- The ATH-R70xa and ATH-R50x are available now, while the ATH-R30x will be released in Spring 2025.
Audio-Technica has launched three new professional open-back reference headphones at NAMM 2025, expanding its R-Series lineup with options across multiple price points. The new models include the flagship ATH-R70xa, mid-tier ATH-R50x, and entry-level ATH-R30x.
The ATH-R70xa, priced at $349, represents Audio-Technica’s premium offering in the series. Hand-assembled at the company’s Machida facility in Japan, it features 45mm drivers housed in a carbon composite resin frame designed to improve structural rigidity and transient response. The headphones offer an extended frequency response from 5Hz to 40kHz and weigh 199g without cables.
For audio professionals seeking a more affordable option, the ATH-R50x ($159) utilizes drivers modeled after the original R70x design. While maintaining the same 45mm driver size and frequency response range as the R70xa, the R50x handles higher power input at 1,600mW and includes two detachable cables – a 3-meter studio cable and a shorter 1.2-meter cable for portable use.
The ATH-R30x rounds out the lineup for just $99. It features 40mm drivers and a slightly narrower frequency response of 15Hz to 25kHz. Despite its budget-friendly price, it maintains professional features like a durable, lightweight construction and compatibility with both 3.5mm and 6.3mm connections via an included adapter.
All three models employ an open-back architecture that allows unrestricted airflow, which Audio-Technica claims eliminates internal resonance and artificial sound coloration. Each pair includes velour earpads and is designed for extended studio sessions.
The ATH-R70xa and ATH-R50x are available now on Amazon, while the ATH-R30x will be released in Spring 2025.