Audio-Technica ATH-ANC700BT headphones hands-on: $200 of bass goodness
Audio-Technica is a name and brand that many audio enthusiasts are quite familiar with, so they know exactly what they're getting into whenever a new product comes to market. One of its latest offerings is the Audio-Technica ATH-ANC700BT QuietPoint wireless over-the-ear headphones, which, as their name happens to imply, feature noise cancellation to block out ambient noise and keep your attention on the music. Retailing for $200, they are certainly in the upper echelon of the spectrum, but then again, that's what you sort of expect with such a distinguished name.
We've tried out several Audio-Technica headphones, and while these undoubtedly sport more of a modern and minimalistic design, they don't have quite the same level of substance with their construction. They're mostly comprised out of this matte black plastic material, giving them a more uniform appearance than some of the company's other designs. Yes, we like how they're super lightweight and fit snuggly over our head when they're worn, but the all-plastic construction doesn't necessarily exude a design we'd expect from Audio-Technica at this specific price point.
Despite that, though, we have to say that the audio quality is mostly pleasant – albeit, it's definitely in the same category with most Beats headphones. That's because the emphasis is on audio in the lower ranges, so if you're into heavy bass, this pair of over-the-ear headphones won't disappoint you. The highs may have less of a presence in the greater scheme of things, but at least its audio performance is robust and full!
As for the noise-cancellation part of the ATH-ANC700BT QuietPoint, it's okay enough to dull down most distractions around us, but we've experienced headphones that do a significantly better job. Rounding things out, the set also features a collapsible design that condenses into a small package for easy traveling, touch-sensitive controls built into the outside of the earcup, and an auxiliary jack that allows it to easily convert into a wired pair of headphones when the situation arises that you need to go wired.
Indeed, the $200 sticker price may be a concern for those strapped for cash, but we find it fair considering what you get, and it's tough to complain about some of the shortcomings this headset comes along with. For a pair of headphones with noise cancellation and bass-heavy performance, it's right there at the sweet spot.
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