Audio-Technica ATHANC7 Noise-cancelling Headphones
by AUDIO TECHNICA
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List Price: Our Price: $79.99 You Save: $139.96 (64%) Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days Category: CE See more product details |
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Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of Audio-Technica ATHANC7 Noise-cancelling Headphones
Customer Review: Simma down there tiger
Summary: 5 Stars
I don't know if this is Amazon policy legal, but I rated these headphones 5 stars not because I think they're 5 star quality (well, maybe for the price they are), but because I wanted to get your attention and help you out. People sometimes hear what they wanna hear, and read the reviews that pump them up. That's what happened to me when it came to these headphones. I should have payed more attention to the criticism than the praise on these guys. But really, where was the criticism? There were plenty of reviews and of the few that took issue, they didn't really bite at the noise canceling ability of these headphones. But that's why I felt I should put this out there. The overwhelming number of people who disagree with me just by a look at the numbers puts me beside myself but my ears do not deceive me so this thing is getting written.
When it comes to the noise canceling feature of these headphones, it doesn't compare to the Bose QC3s. With so many positive reviews from the Amazon customers, and most of them hitting on that point of the product (the noise suppression) as being on par with the QC3s, I thought there was no way I was going to notice a significant difference between the two.
As with every review that you read on Amazon when considering the purchase of something, you wanna know where the reviewer is coming from because some people care about this and others about that. I was after the noise cancellation first and foremost. So on pretty music and stuff, I don't consider myself an audiophile, but I'm 28- I've had a few cars with a few 2K plus sound systems in them. I can tell when I've got good treble, I can tell when I've got tight bass, I can tell when my vocals are coming through strong- whatever, but pretty much, it sounds on or it doesn't, and then the rest of the general sound makeup, the character if you want to call it that, is going to be different between every product. That's as audiophile as I get and I'm sure they'd all like to cut my throat with those comments but whatever. I'd say both produce good sound, but when it comes to above average products, I don't think you could tell which you like more with out really listening to both of 'm for yourself with the kind of music you like- nobody can review that for you.
When it comes to the noise canceling- I feel I can be more objective, the Bose are darn near like putting in earplugs. The First time, my jaw dropped for a second. The Technicas just don't do that. They reduce background noise but they don't kill it like the Bose do. There is something important to be noted here, though. The Bose do produce a noticeable pressure on the eardrum that almost has a slight buzzing noise to it. That's the active cancellation at work. I solved that by wearing earplugs underneath. Sounds like over kill, but I use these devices for studying- not listening to music. With that headphone/earplug combo, a train could derail right in front of me and I still wouldn't look up from my book. The Technicas don't have any back pressure or buzzing sensation at all, but again, they suppress far less outside noise. But in that respect, the technicas might be more pleasant for you because the pressure from the Bose can be annoying. To be fair to the Bose, with any moderate level of music being played through them- that pressure/buzzing disappears.
The comfort,quality and convenience in design that the technica is noted for in so many of the reviews I felt was very true to the actual. The standard AAA battery instead of a specialized rechargeable unit as is the case with the Bose model, is great and the fit is snug. I know of one review that mentioned that the music could be heard by people sitting next to you and, though you might be able to hear a little sound- I didn't think it was hardly enough to be of any concern unless you're really cranking it, even say in the close quarters of an airplane. If someone was concerned about that, I really don't think the bleed out is more than normal, no offense to that reviewer, but I wanted to mention that because that was an interesting point to me and when I received the technicas I had to check that out for myself but didn't find anything to be out of the ordinary, but I'm definitely not a big headphone guy so take it for what it's worth. Of course if your listening to metal at a high volume and maybe it's got a lot of cussing and stuff maybe there's more isolating ones out there.
The Technicas are a well built headphone but if you want to know how powerful noise suppression can be (not to mention how ridiculously expensive it can be), go to a Bose store and check out their models.
Customer Review: Sorry.... but they work.
Summary: 5 Stars
I'm sorry, I just simply have to say, that this product is absolutely worth the money. After trying my friend's Bose QC2, I decided that was a little over my budget. Not to bash Bose, because those headphones are AWESOME, but it's a little too much buck for the bang. After hesitating a little bit after reading some reviews regarding bad service from Audio Technica and a few technical issues, I decided to give these a try anyway.
First impression: Wow, it really comes in a complete package. From the airline adapter, to the carrying case, and even the detachable audio cable (so that you can use the headphones just for noise cancellation without music).
Actual usage: I wouldn't say these cancel out 100% noise (but I dare you to name me something that does), but even just putting the headphones on with no power or music cuts a LOT of background sounds, because of the design of the headphones. Noise cancellation on, it greatly reduces the VOLUME of general noises, but it is most effective at cutting "windy" sounds or static, and makes hugely noticeable differences in the car or on a plane. Sound quality isn't absolutely top-of-the-line, but it would qualify for mid-range studio quality. With noise cancellation on AND a source of music playing, you almost feel as though you are in your own sound proof room with a nice stereo. Of course, if the guy living above you is running a jackhammer, you can always upgrade to Bose QC's, though I doubt they'll do what you need them to. These headphones definitely do what they were designed to do: provide good quality music output and cancel background noises (primarily humming and wind noises). And the fact that you can detach the cable if you only want to cut noises and have no music is a BONUS. Just don't lose the cable.
Comfort: These don't feel like you have a brick on your head; they're lightweight. They fit perfectly over my ears, covering them completely, but please note, that if you have considerably large ears, they may not for you. They seem to be made for people with medium to small ears. I can actually keep these headphones on for several hours without ever needing to take them off in terms of comfort, but it is pretty difficult to lie down on a pillow with them as they are a bit bulky depth-wise, especially if you're the type that likes to sleep on the side of your head, or tilt a little bit. The only reason I take off the headphones for a couple of minutes every hour or so is when I have noise cancellation on for too long, my ears start to feel weird, but this is true for all noise-cancelling headphones I have tried.
Quality & Product Life: So far things are good. I've had this for quite a few months, and I can admit that I've abused them a little. Yet they seem to work just fine, as if they were still new. No complaints at all.
Other reviews & notes: Overall, I can say that I am very pleased with this product. From first impressions, to actual usage, to the sound quality, and the endurance of the product. Being able to carry around the headphones in the little package (which actually has enough room to fit a mid-size MP3 player as well in addition to the headphones) makes my travelling audio experiences so much better. I understand there are some negative reviews about the service of Audio Technica, and I have not had to experience that yet and I hope it stays that way for a while. I've also read reviews that they have either bad audio quality, or the noise cancellation doesn't work. Some have reported the headphones don't work entirely. I believe those are just 'duds', and I feel for those very unfortunate people, because had they received a GOOD one, it is an amazing product. I will however, defend the noise-cancellation. Noise cancellation may attempt to, but it can never eliminate all noises. It is intended primarily to help silence humming and wind noises from inside plane cabins. It really isn't going to quiet down that construction site next door, regardless of what brand it is (unless it's in-ear; then it's somewhat possible). Whatever the opposition, I really rate this product high; I think it was one of the better investments I've made. If you read my other reviews, I'm not one to give out 5 stars easily, but this product has earned it.
Customer Review: Best gift I've ever recieved
Summary: 5 Stars
In my freshman year of college, I bought a pair of cheap ($40) over-ear headphones that had minimal noise cancelling ability. They lasted about 4 months before an earcup broke off, but I appreciated them nonetheless. I asked for some better quality ones for Christmas, and chose these after extensive research.
I don't consider myself an audiophile, but I was blown away by the audio quality of these. I have never been jealous of anyone else's headphones since owning these (beats, Bose, anything.) I can believe that the base on the Bose set is better, but for me I don't care about that as much due to the nature of most of the music I listen to. The stage effect on these is great; you will hear your music in new ways.
I find that many people don't understand noise cancelling. Basically, these types of headphones have a little mic in them which picks up ambient noise and then reproduces the noise exactly out of phase with the ambient noise, thereby neutralizing it. Therefore, these (and all other noise cancelers) work well with persistent noise (fan, car, airplane) and not so well with dynamic noise (people talking) Having said that, it is very possible to completely cancel out all normal noise (like talking) by turning on noise cancelling and having the volume relatively high. It is a great tool to have if you loathe your roommate, because once they figure out that you can't hear them, they have to actually get up in order to get your attention, and therefore they will not bother you nearly as much. I've crossed the Atlantic nearly as many times as I am years old (20) and these are by far the most important thing to make those long haul flights easier. When watching movies or listening to music on the plane, it is possible to pretty much eliminate the sound of the plane. And for sleeping, I usually just turn on noise cancelling and unplug the audio cord. It replaces the airplane noise with some gentle white noise, and I can sleep so much more easily. The earcups are angled such that I can lean back in the seat without putting weight on the earphones. The passengers around me are always jealous of my ability to sleep on these flights.
These headphones are durable. The main reason for this is that the 1/8th inch cord (regular headphone cord) is replaceable. I have had so many sets of headphones/earbuds break because the cord developed a bad connection, and couldn't be replaced. I am on my 3rd cord now, (after 2.5 years) which might sound bad, but considering how I treat my headphones, it's really just great that I haven't had to replace the headphones themselves. My cord always gets tangled around something, and I get up in a hurry, and bam, bad connection. But it's a 2-dollar fix that extends the life of these great headphones.The earcup connection is flexible and extremely solid. I cannot imagine this breaking.
As far as comfort, I can't imagine any being more comfortable. Many headphones I have tried are just not deep enough at the earcups. I guess my ears are pretty big, because I find that i'm pressing up against them, and it becomes uncomfortable over time. These are just super comfortable and I can wear them for a very long time without wanting to take them off. The only caveats here are that they can get a little hot in warm weather, and I often get 'headphone hair' but I don't see how it could be any better with any other over - ear phones.
Overall, I am extremely satisfied with these, and as I said in the title, I consider them the best gift i've been given. I'm not even tempted to blow money on a good speaker system, as these give me more audio quality than I think I'll ever need.
Customer Review: Amazing Noise-Cancelling Headphones and Great Price Point!
Summary: 5 Stars
I've been wanting Noise-Cancelling headphones for a LONG time.....a recent trip to Hawaii really made me regret picking up some Bose cans before heading out.....
.....it was a blessing in disguise though, because waiting a little while longer allowed me to discover THIS gem! At ~1/2 to 1/3 the price of Bose NC headphones, I was skeptical of the quality of these headphones......after reading so many of the glowing reviews, though, I took the plunge and bought them at the lowest price point that I've seen so far: $120 from Electronics Expo on 7/12/07 .... I was still a little wary about the complaints about less bass response than the Bose cans, but was optimistic due to the rave reviews for its exceptional midrange and high-frequency responses.
WOW --- all of the rave reviews were right on the money --- these headphones are the best that I've ever owned. I've been using Bose Triport (not noise-cancelling) headphones for about 3-4 years now --- these Audio-Technica ATH-ANC7 headphones sound EVEN BETTER than the Bose Triports in the high and midrange regions and MATCH them in the bass region, in my opinion (and while not an expert, I consider myself a reasonably knowledgable audiophile). I haven't had a chance to use these on a plane yet, but I've heard the results as a neighbor mowed their lawn right outside my window, and with these babies on, I couldn't hear ANYTHING except the great music from my mp3 player.
With that rambling intro, here's my summary:
PROS:
-Amazing high and mid-range sound (best I've ever heard)
-Great bass sound (on par w/ Bose and potentially even more accurate since there is no artificial boosting of the bass response)
-Amazing battery life on 1 AAA battery --- they claim 40 hours --- I haven't reached that yet, but WOW --- that is a long time
-Great carrying case and adapters for in-flight audio setups (they even have an adapter for the 2-prong inflight setup....they thought of everything) --- the headphones fold into the case very nicely and it is sturdy and compact
-Luxurious look and feel: soft leather etc. Just buy it and you'll see what I mean --- even the smell of the case when you first open it has a sense of luxury
-Reasonably comfortable on the head and not heavy-feeling, even after hours of listening
CONS:
-The comfort level of these headphones are good, but don't blow me away as much as the audio quality and noise cancelling quality do. Both of those things are so amazing, that I feel like these headphones should feel weightless and fit perfectly over my ears to match that quality. They are not uncomfortable to wear, but I'd say I prefer the feel of the Bose Triports over my ears than the ATH-ANC7's. I have both headphones here for comparison and the ATH-ANC7 feels a little tighter over my ears (maybe something that comes with the territory for good noise cancellation) and the earcup leather portion of the headphones feel a little less "cushy" against my head than the Bose headphones. I'm not sure how the Quietcomforts compare in feel (I mention them since they are competing noise-cancelling headphones), but between the non noise-cancelling Bose Triports and the Audio-Technica ATH-ANC7's, I'd give the very slight edge to the Triports for comfort.
Too many pros outweigh this one con, though, so I give these headphones 5 stars --- even at its retail price of $200-$220, these are a huge bargain compared to the Bose.....especially if you see these below $150, strike while the iron is hot and buy them!!!
Customer Review: Been a long time since I've enjoyed headphones this much
Summary: 5 Stars
Okay, let's skip the appetizers and go for the gullet: This headphone's only weakness is bass. You like your Triport bass? HAH. Its okay...sit down...have a drink...we can help you to your higher power. Just say NO to Bose bass and be healed!!! (PUTS HANDS ON YOU IN THE NAME OF GOD!) BE healed I say!! There...breath easier, let it out...abused were we and thought we liked it? I understand...I used to be abused by Bose Bass too and I begged for more. Yes I was shameless for 2 YEARS, and yes, I slept in post-coital bliss after each shameless session...BUT eventually the sibilance of the high end and the OKAY mid range urged me to look further. Enter the Audio-Techica's. First thing I noticed compared to Bose was just how rich and varied the timbre was and to be fair this was the same compared to many other phones: Sony CD-3000's, Grado SR-225's, Sony MDR V6', Dt770, and others over a span of twenty years of listening. I can easily say these ATH's (Audio-Technica's) have the most defined bass of any headphones (well...not better than the Sony CD3000's but the treble is definitely sweeter on the Technica's) I have heard though they miss its full impact. And I thought this would dissuade me. Nope. And I am a BASS head believe me. But I am also a TREBLE head too..hell add midrange in. I like the whole damn thing.
But these have done a magnificent job and I love their bass even more than I did from the beginning and I use these probably four hours per session. One thing that is hard to convey is the richness of the cohesive whole of the music while easily giving separate instruments a heart of their own. Yes, that sentence is a perfect rehash of reading too many professional stereo reviewers, but it's accurate nonetheless. Here's my actual thinking: YOU WON'T PRY THESE FROM MY COLD DEAD HANDS WITHOUT A CHAINSHAW.
Even if these cost $250 or even $300 I would buy them again without hesitation. (and I have a pair of Akg 701's I frankly don't like as much. Of course the 701's are hard to drive and need a headphone amp etc. etc. The ATH's don't need no stinking amp but lets not think I just fell of the turnip truck. Amps are great, but it's great not to need one as your MP3 portable or CD player will do rather nicely. But to be accurate: Amps will give you greater bass definition for sure. I use a the headroom Bit Head with this phone and was impressed even though I am unimpressed overall with the Bit head with other phones) The Noise Cancelling is a first for me. Love it. I sometimes wear these very comfy phones with no music on just enjoy the silence effect. (that's not to say their completely silent by any means but with a source playing, its pretty much you and music.) Don't be fooled at how cheap these headphones are, they deliver the goods in spades and then some. (If you think these are expensive, keep searching for headphones and you will remember these words at your chagrin later.) For those of you, and you know who you are, who are seasoned in the headphone dating scene, and are tired of asking lines like: You come here often? Just buy these babies. This gal, you can take to your parents, enjoy the envious stares of your buddies with, all the while knowing she's got handcuffs in her purse with your name engraved on 'em. Nuff said.
(Oh, now the Triports sound like somebody gave the music lots of cheap fuzzy alcohol and bludgeoned it about the rear of the head several times.)