TEST: Audio Technica ATH-E70

 When it comes to in-ear monitoring, you have always been, are and will probably always have to choose between the adapted version and the one-size-fits-all solution. Undoubtedly, in addition to being more comfortable to wear, the adapted versions also have better insulation against external noise, but on the other hand, the high-end versions are already at the upper end of the three-digit price range and require a visit to the manufacturer or hearing aid acoustician to ensure the perfect fit to ensure product. When it comes to non-adapted in-ear monitoring systems, the Japanese company Audio-Technica has now brought the Audio-Technica ATH-E70 onto the market, which wants to leave a mark in the highly competitive price league around 300 euros.

The details of the Audio-Technica ATH-E70

Three drivers were installed in each housing of the Audio-Technica ATH-E70, which generate a frequency response of 20 Hz to 19 kHz, a fact that has unfortunately only been found very rarely in recent times. In particular, the blending values in the treble range (everything above 20 kHz) are now so tiring and unnecessary that as a tester you are almost inclined to deduct a point from the rating because of “dumbing down the customer”. So, big praise for Audio-Technica! According to the data sheet, the sensitivity of the receiver is stated to be 109 dB/mW, and the impedance is in the healthy midfield at 44 ohms.

When it comes to design, Audio-Technica has adopted the increasingly popular "technical design" for this listener, which allows the user to have a look at the innards of the circuit board. The entire housing impresses with a subtle, modern appearance thanks to the three different “colors” black, milky white and transparent and is also very cleanly processed. The manufacturer supplies a total of 4 different silicone attachments and a foam attachment, so every user should find something suitable.

The headphones themselves are extremely light at 9 grams and have a 160 cm long Y-cable on them. The cable is pleasantly flexible without getting tangled too quickly. As usual, there is a slider in the upper part of the cable on the Audio-Technica ATH-E70 with which you can bring the two cable strands closer to the head. A very useful tool that should not move during the show, but this slider is so difficult to move that you can have concerns about cable routing. The earphones also come with a gold-plated adapter from 3.5 mm to 6.25 mm stereo jack. The whole thing is transported in a sturdy carbon-look transport box. Cleaning tools or replaceable cerumen filters are not included in the scope of delivery.


The Audio-Technica ATH-E70 in practice

Let's start with comfort first. The stiffened brackets above the headphones offer better wearing comfort than earphones without them, but this only applies to the period in which the headphones are in use. Said brackets can also be “unbent” very quickly from the bend that has once been set, i.e. H. The seat has to be readjusted before each use, but that's not really a problem. 2 handles and the plastic is back in its shape.

In terms of fit, you obviously have to accept one or two compromises with unadapted earphones, apart from the stagediver concept from the company Inear, in which 500 representative ear canals were fused into one average ear canal, from which a mold is then cast. which comes very close to an adapted system. The Audio-Technica ATH-E70 is also good in this regard. kept quite simple, but its design takes into account the fact that the human ear canal usually bends upwards behind the auricle at an approximately 45 degree steep angle. However, no further adjustment to the ear canal is carried out.

As with adapted systems, the Audio-Technica ATH-E70 earphones can be easily inserted into the ear canal by gently turning them from the front up/back using the appropriate attachments. At first impression, they close the ear canal quite well, but only until you make a movement or make your first movements with your head. The offset in the ear is only minimal, but the sound behavior changes rapidly. It is well known that the bass in particular decreases significantly as soon as a tiny air gap has formed between the listener and the skin. Depending on the attachment, this happens relatively easily with the Audio-Technica ATH-E70, at least for me, as the system is neither adapted nor does it completely disappear into the ear canal like various cheap versions from other manufacturers.

This fact isn't a big deal if you're used to this type of monitoring, but you unconsciously tend not to change your posture too much once you've found your optimal position. Otherwise, it is very comfortable to wear, nothing pinches and the temples over the ears do their job satisfactorily. Once the Audio-Technica ATH-E70 sits perfectly, the system has very good insulation from the outside, which is quite comparable to a customized system.

Now let's talk about the sound of the Audio-Technica ATH-E70. As always, personal preference when it comes to sound is very individual. While one user likes to be overwhelmed by a preset fat sound, the other user prefers a neutral sound so that they can set their own preferred frequency curve. The Audio-Technica ATH-E70 is one of these. clearly belongs to the second group. The basic sound of the listener is positively neutral, although in my opinion it could be a little more in almost all areas. The treble range in particular sounds comparatively subtle, perhaps even a bit dull, and the bass range also quickly appears a bit thin, especially if the listener is not connected all the time (see above).

When it comes to phantom center and stereo resolution, the Audio-Technica ATH-E70 works well, although, as with all earphones, there is hardly any depth adjustment. A fact that you should always keep in mind when operating a studio. Due to the impedance of 44 ohms, the Audio-Technica ATH-E70 shines on almost every device and also achieves a correspondingly high volume when required.

In direct comparison with my reference in-ear monitoring earphones from the unadapted department, the In-ear Stagediver, which costs 100 euros more, the Audio-Technica ATH-E70 has to outperform in all areas such as fit, bass reproduction, treble reproduction and resolution give up. What should be mentioned positively, however, is that the somewhat unspectacular sound allows for very fatigue-free listening. Even longer sessions are no problem with the Audio-Technica ATH-E70.

The area of application of the Audio-Technica ATH-E70

As is well known, the in-ear monitoring area is often used on the stage for tactile and optical reasons, although the first high-end variants are now also finding their way into the recording studio. This is where I see the real problem with the Audio-Technica ATH-E70. As a good all-rounder, also suitable for general listening on the go, the listener cuts a fine figure, but with a retail price of just under 300 euros, it stands out quite a bit.

The sound would be quite sufficient for the stage, but I am a little worried that the possibly not optimal fit will limit the stage performance somewhat, although I would like to emphasize that this assumption is completely subjective. It is entirely possible that other users will not experience this effect. For the third area, studio monitoring, I personally consider the Audio-Technica ATH-E70 to be sonically inferior to average over-ear headphones in the same price range.

At the same time, however, the listeners are very suitable for listening to a material “quickly”. Areas such as OB vans, outdoor recordings, live broadcasts or other areas where quick and easy handling of an earphone is important seem predestined for the Audio-Technica ATH-E70.

Conclusion

The Audio-Technica ATH-E70 is a good all-rounder on the market that covers a wide range of possible uses without providing above-average performance in any one area in particular. If you are looking for well-fitting and well-made earphones, you should definitely take a look at the Audio-Technica ATH-E70.

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Additional Informations:

Audio-Technica, established in 1962 in Tokyo, Japan, by Hideo Matsushita, has evolved into a globally recognized brand in the audio equipment industry. Renowned for its diverse range of products including microphones, headphones, turntables, and other audio accessories, the company has established a strong reputation for quality, innovation, and craftsmanship.

### Founding and Early Years

The journey of Audio-Technica began in a single apartment room where Hideo Matsushita, driven by a passion for music and technology, sought to create high-quality, affordable audio equipment. The company's first product was the AT-1 phonograph cartridge, designed to enhance the listening experience of vinyl records. This product set the tone for Audio-Technica's commitment to delivering superior audio fidelity.

### Expansion and Product Evolution

From its humble beginnings, Audio-Technica rapidly expanded. In the 1970s, the company entered the international market, starting with Europe and later the United States, significantly broadening its product range and customer base.

1. **Microphones**: Audio-Technica’s microphones have become industry standards, especially in broadcast and live sound environments. Products like the AT2020 and AT4040 are renowned for their clarity and reliability, used in studios and stages worldwide.

2. **Headphones**: The company's headphones, particularly the M-series (e.g., ATH-M50x), are celebrated for their sound quality and durability, favored by professional audio engineers, musicians, and audiophiles.

3. **Turntables**: Audio-Technica’s turntables, such as the AT-LP120XUSB, are revered for their excellent build and sound quality, appealing to both professional DJs and vinyl enthusiasts.

4. **Wireless Systems**: The company has also innovated in the field of wireless audio technology, offering a range of wireless headphones and microphone systems.

### Technological Innovations and Industry Contributions

Audio-Technica is known for its technological advancements and contributions to the audio industry:

- **Phonograph Cartridge Technology**: The company initially gained fame for its state-of-the-art phonograph cartridges, which remain a core part of its business.

- **Microphone Design Innovations**: Audio-Technica has pioneered several microphone technologies, including advanced ribbon and condenser microphone designs.

- **Headphone Engineering**: The development of proprietary driver technology has allowed Audio-Technica to produce headphones with exceptional sound quality and noise-cancellation capabilities.

### Awards and Recognitions

Over the years, Audio-Technica has received numerous awards for its product design and innovation, reinforcing its position as a leader in the audio industry. These accolades reflect the company's commitment to excellence in audio technology.

### Environmental and Social Responsibility

Audio-Technica has shown a commitment to environmental sustainability in its manufacturing processes and product designs, aiming to minimize its ecological footprint. The company is also involved in various social responsibility programs and charitable initiatives.

### Challenges and Future Outlook

Facing intense competition in a rapidly evolving industry, Audio-Technica continues to innovate, adapting to changes in consumer preferences and technology. The rise of digital streaming, the resurgence of vinyl records, and the growing demand for high-quality portable audio are areas where the company is likely to focus its future efforts.

### Conclusion

Audio-Technica's journey from a small Tokyo apartment to a globally recognized brand is a testament to its enduring commitment to quality, innovation, and passion for audio excellence. With a rich history and a forward-looking approach, Audio-Technica is poised to remain a significant player in the audio equipment industry, continuing to cater to the evolving needs of audio professionals and enthusiasts alike.