Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (4)
$379.00
Amazon
4.6 (121)
$379.00 New
$321.99 Used (Very Good)
zZounds
5.0 (3)
$379.00
B&H
5.0 (3)
$379.00
Thomann
4.1 (18)
$339.00 $338.00 $1.00 · All time low

Average Price: $374

High-end/Boutique

$100

$301+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa Open-back Reference Headphones". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa Open-back Reference Headphones are a must-have for any professional looking to elevate their audio experience. As Audio-Technica's flagship model, these headphones are built for precision and clarity, offering an unparalleled open-back listening experience. Designed with the discerning audio engineer in mind, they ensure each mix is rendered with stunning transparency, thanks to their extensive frequency response of 5 Hz to 40 kHz.

The fully open-back design eliminates internal resonance, ensuring that each diaphragm movement translates directly into sound, free from artificial enhancements. This results in a natural and lifelike soundstage, perfect for mixing, mastering, or any critical listening task. The ATH-R70xa's featherlight construction, weighing a mere 199 grams without the cable, and reimagined headband offer exceptional comfort, making them ideal for long studio sessions.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these headphones are assembled from in-house components at Audio-Technica's Tokyo facility. The use of carbon composite resin not only improves structural rigidity but also enhances the transient response, providing the clarity and separation needed for intricate mixes. The dual-sided, detachable locking cable ensures accurate stereo orientation, completing the package for an immersive and authentic audio experience.

Key Features:

  • Professional open-back design for accurate, transparent sound
  • Extended frequency response (5 Hz – 40,000 Hz)
  • Featherlight construction (199 g) with a reimagined headband
  • Carbon composite resin for improved structural rigidity
  • Dual-sided, detachable locking cable with L/R signal independence
  • Includes 1/4" adapter and carrying pouch
  • Handcrafted in Japan with rigorous quality testing

Product specs

Type Wired
Open/Closed Open
Fit Style Circumaural (Around the Ear)
Driver Size 45mm
Noise Attenuation Passive Noise Isolating
Frequency Response 5Hz-40kHz
Impedance 470 ohms
Connectivity 1/8" plug, 1/4" adapter
Cable Type 1 x Straight
Cable Length 9.8 ft
Detachable Cable Yes
Case/Bag Drawstring Bag
Weight 0.43 lbs.

FAQs

What makes the Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa suitable for critical listening?

The ATH-R70xa features a fully open-back design, allowing unrestricted airflow and eliminating internal resonance, which ensures a natural and transparent sound ideal for critical listening and mixing.

How comfortable are the Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa headphones for long sessions?

These headphones are lightweight at just 7 oz and feature a redesigned headband and replaceable velour earpads, providing exceptional comfort for extended use.

What is the frequency response range of the Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa headphones?

The ATH-R70xa headphones offer an extended frequency response from 5Hz to 40kHz, ensuring detailed and accurate sound reproduction across a wide range of frequencies.

Are the Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa headphones suitable for use with portable devices?

With an impedance of 470 ohms, the ATH-R70xa headphones are best used with a headphone amplifier for optimal performance, as portable devices may not provide sufficient power.

Does the Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa come with a detachable cable?

Yes, the ATH-R70xa includes a unique, dual-sided 9.8' detachable locking cable, which is L/R signal independent to ensure proper stereo orientation.

What type of connection does the Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa use?

The ATH-R70xa headphones feature a 1/8" plug and come with a 1/4" adapter, making them compatible with a wide range of audio equipment.

MusicProductReviews

MusicProductReviews

I HATE The Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa... (It's Not What You Think)

Video thumbnail for I HATE The Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa... (It's Not What You Think) by MusicProductReviews

I HATE The Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa... (It's Not What You Think)

MusicProductReviews

MusicProductReviews

Video thumbnail for Audio Technica ATH-R70xa Headphone Review - Is This the Best R70? by Reviews By WaveTheory

Audio Technica ATH-R70xa Headphone Review - Is This the Best R70?

Reviews By WaveTheory

Reviews By WaveTheory

Video thumbnail for Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa Review: Why These Are The PERFECT Producer Headphones by Mordio

Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa Review: Why These Are The PERFECT Producer Headphones

Mordio

Mordio

Video thumbnail for Mixing on Headphones? You NEED to Hear This! (Audio Technica R70xa Review) by Spinlight Studio

Mixing on Headphones? You NEED to Hear This! (Audio Technica R70xa Review)

Spinlight Studio

Spinlight Studio

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa Open-back Reference Headphones.

Build quality

  • The R70xa has a headband with an uneven seal and weak clamp force, whereas the R50x's rigid headband offers better support and comfort.

    Source
  • The R70x features a "3D wing support" headband system that, despite lacking vertical swivel, maintains comfort without top-of-head pressure, though ear cups need frequent adjustment.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The R70xa's treble is bright and shimmery, enhancing vocal presence, while the bass is punchy but rolls off in the subbass region.

    Source
  • The R70x requires a dedicated amplifier to unlock full potential; budget amps may introduce treble peakiness.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The R70xa is described as having better imaging and soundstage compared to the HD 6XX, and rivals the DT 900 Pro's build quality.

    Source
  • In terms of raw detail, the R70x slightly trails the HD600, with a touch of grain in complex recordings.

    Source
  • The R70x offers precise imaging superior to the AKG K702, providing a cohesive soundstage without the latter's diffuse center image.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note the R70xa is favored for its unique layering and imaging, offering a "sweetness" to vocals that stand out.

    Source
  • Some users find the R70x headband slips, affecting comfort, while others with small heads report a snug fit.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The R50x, with its lightweight and forward sound, is considered well-suited for gaming, despite lacking perceived depth in sound presentation.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Users suggest a bass shelf and slight treble reduction for the R50x to improve sound quality, enhancing its performance for older listeners.

    Source
  • The R70x's twist-lock dual-2.5mm connectors limit cable replacement options, with the standard 3-meter cable being impractical for some uses.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • At $200, the R50x is noted for its impressive bass extension for an open-back model, making it a competitive choice in its price range.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review of Audio Technica ATH-R70xa: a new take on neutrality? – the unheard of headphone lab

unheardlab.com

Audio-Technica's ATH-R70xa aims to redefine neutrality with a mildly U-shaped sound, offering punchy bass and clear treble for a dynamic listening experience. While it outshines the Sennheiser HD6X0 series in spaciousness and detail, its slightly uneven treble and awkward headband design may deter comfort seekers. The build feels Spartan, and the limited ear cup articulation affects fit, potentially causing leakage. Though the R70xa excels in clarity and imaging, its high impedance requires a capable amp for optimal performance. Ideal for those preferring a more analytical sound, but try before you buy due to comfort quirks.

March 2025: Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa, ATH-R50x & ATH-R30x

recordingmag.com

Audio-Technica's ATH-R70xa impresses as a feather-light, open-back headphone that delivers stunning neutrality and depth, ideal for studio pros. Its minimalist design ensures comfort, though the high 470Ω impedance demands a proper amp for full sonic potential. While its headband design has been revamped for durability, some may find the magnet clasps a bit unreliable. Sound-wise, the ATH-R70xa excels with a balanced, airy presentation, though some might find it too "polite" in the mids. At $349, it's a compelling choice for those seeking quality without the hefty price tag, holding its own against pricier rivals.

positive

Review: Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa

mixdownmag.com.au

Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa headphones redefine open-back design with a lightweight, snug fit and superior soundstage. Handcrafted in Japan, they boast a sleek design and improved structural rigidity for detailed transient response. The headphones offer a flat, neutral sound, excelling in mid-range frequencies with impressive frequency response and no distortion. While the unboxing might lack flair, the audio experience is captivating, revealing new dimensions in familiar tracks. These headphones thrive with a good amplifier, making them a standout release from Audio-Technica, ideal for serious audio professionals seeking depth and clarity.

positive

Audio Technica ATH-R70xa review: Light on build, big on sound | Tom's Guide

tomsguide.com

Audio-Technica's ATH-R70xa headphones deliver a stunning audio experience with a mids-focused sound profile that audiophiles will appreciate. The lightweight design ensures comfort during extended use, but this comes at the cost of a flimsy build. The delicate construction might deter some, as it lacks the durability found in competitors like Sennheiser and Meze. The headband is awkwardly designed, affecting overall fit. Bass enthusiasts may find the low end lacking. While the sound quality shines, offering clear highs and a wide soundstage, the headphones' overall package doesn't fully justify the price, leaving potential buyers to weigh sound against structural concerns.

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Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa Open-back Reference Headphones, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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