Thursday, May 5, 2016

Audio-Technica ATH-A1000Z Hi-Res Headphones Review

Audio-Technica is known for providing excellent quality headphone, for a big bang for the buck. With the increase in popularity of the newer Hi-res audio format, it was time for an update. Audio-Technica is starting to redo their lineup with new Hi-Res Audio compatible models. Up for review today is one of those new models, the ATH-A1000Z.


Features and specs:
  • Newly designed 53 mm drivers with OFC-7N bobbin-wound voice coils
  • Hand-assembled drivers include top-mounted PCB and pure iron yoke, ensuring precise diaphragm movement and superior transient response
  • High-rigidity aluminum housings
  • Lightweight magnesium alloy baffle decreases unwanted vibration
  • Proprietary 3D wing support system for excellent fit
  • Stitched, ergonomic earpads offer superior comfort and sound isolation
  • 3.0 m (9.8') OFC-6N dual-sided, four-core cable with elastomer sheath
  • Includes 6.3 mm (¼") stereo adapter
Type
Closed-back dynamic
Driver Diameter
53 mm
Frequency Response
5 – 43,000 Hz
Maximum Input Power
2,000 mW
Sensitivity
101 dB/mW
Impedance
44 ohms
Weight
265 g
Cable
3.0 m (9.8') OFC-6N dual-sided, four-core cable with elastomer sheath
Connector
3.5 mm (1/8") gold-plated stereo mini-plug
Accessory Included
6.3 mm (1/4") gold-plated stereo adapter


The Audio-Technica ATH-A1000Z came in a great looking glossy colored box with photos of the product and it's specs. Materials used in the construction is mostly metal, with some plastic. The quality of materials used was very good, as was the fit and finish. The ATH-A1000Z is a premium product, as you can tell. It can be seen in the metal earcup backs, in the thick cable, and even the metal connectors on the end. Also included in the box was the manual, and a 1/4 " adapter.  So far so good, but just how good do they sound?

David Bowie: Let's Dance, Kick drum had very good depth and played with good authority. Percussion was very crisp, clean dynamic. Knockers had detail and woodiness, and revealed a huge soundstage. Vocals were extremely natural with great timbre. Journey: Don't Stop Believing, keyboard was extremely natural with really good resolution. Vocals were palpable in resolution and very natural with great harmonics. Percussion was crisp and dynamic with nice depth in the kick drum. Soundstage was huge. Also Sprach Zerathustra, nice really deep bass that could be heard, brass was smooth and really crisp and clean with excellent harmonics and no audible coloration, throwing a wide soundstage. Tympani had really good impact with resolution to hear the pad being pounded. Junior Wells: Why Are People Like That, bass had nice low end extension with good output. Vocals were lifelike in detail and resolution, and had plenty of texture. Harmonica was extremely dynamic with excellent harmonics. Gershwin: Rhapsody In Blue, clarinet was extremely natural with so much resolution you could fairly easily hear things like the breathing technique, it's woodiness, and the nice air from the clarinet. Brass was crisp, clean, with nice detail. Piano was also extremely natural, with excellent resolution to be able to hear the striking of the keys. Imaging was very accurate and the low level harmonics as well as dynamics were striking. 
The Audio-Technica ATH-A1000Z are a new product designed for Hi_res Audio, and it shows.  The level of detail and resolution needs to be heard to appreciated.  They will bring a new experience to music you thought you knew for years.  Based on their design, features, quality, and performance, the Audio-Technica ATH-A1000Z has earned our Editor's Choice Award.  For more info and complete specs, check out their website at www.audio-technica.com.

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