Audio-Technica ATH-WB LTD Headphone Review

Audio-Technica, a prestigious Japanese audio brand founded in 1962, has long been celebrated for its high-quality audio equipment. Known for their fan-favorite headphones like the ATH-M50x and a range of industry-standard microphones and recording devices, Audio-Technica has carved out a niche among audiophiles and sound professionals alike. Recently, they introduced the ATH-WB LTD headphones, a limited-edition model that promises a high-end listening experience. Let’s delve into what makes the ATH-WB LTD headphones stand out in the crowded market of premium audio gear.

What’s in the Box:

• ATH-WB LTD Headphones
• A soft carrying case
• Cable with 4.4mm termination
• Cable with 3.5mm termination
• 3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter
• Quick Start Guide

Build

The build quality of the ATH-WB LTD headphones is quite good, reflecting Audio-Technica’s commitment to meticulous craftsmanship. The audio brand constructed the headphones with a three-layer housing structure that combines solid flame maple, walnut, and mahogany. These woods, typically used in high-end stringed instruments give each pair a unique and elegant appearance. They also contribute to the superior sound quality. The natural wood grain adds a touch of sophistication and individuality to each headphone set.

Crafted by skilled artisans at Fujigen Inc., a renowned Japanese guitar manufacturer, the housing is a testament to traditional craftsmanship blended with modern technology. The headphones sport a lightweight aluminum frame. This makes them resistant to corrosion, reducing unwanted resonance and providing a crisp, clear sound. The sheepskin earpads and headband enhance the premium feel, offering comfort for long listening sessions. However, it’s worth noting that the yokes connecting the ear cups to the headband feel somewhat plasticky. But this is a minor drawback in an otherwise stellar build.

Design

The ATH-WB LTD headphones incorporate several innovative features that set them apart. The new 45 mm HD driver, developed in-house using Audio-Technica’s proprietary methods, stands out as chief among them. These drivers are an enhanced version of those introduced in the ATH-WB2022 60th anniversary model and are specifically tuned for analog listening. The high-performance magnetic circuit, featuring an integrated pure-iron yoke and high-force magnets, creates an optimal closed magnetic circuit. This design improves transient characteristics and ensures faithful sound reproduction.

The diaphragm of the ATH-WB LTD headphones is coated with diamond-like carbon (DLC), enhancing high-frequency sound reproduction while maintaining low-frequency resolution. This combination ensures a full-bandwidth soundstage that caters to various genres of music. 

The headphone employs high-purity 7N-OFC voice coils to guarantee accurate audio signal transmission and impressive power handling. Additionally, the headphones feature Audio-Technica’s A2DC detachable cable system, which uses star-quad stranded wires to minimize crosstalk and improve sound quality. The A2DC connectors aim to eliminate sound loss and noise, ensuring durable, high-quality sound transmission.

Sound Impressions

Lows:

The low-end frequencies are notably boomy, with an elevated bloom that adds warmth and a live feel to the music. This characteristic is particularly evident in tracks like Queens of the Stone Age’s “No One Knows,” where the bass impact is substantial and visceral. The bass isn’t necessarily slow but has a reverb-y effect that creates a slower decaying boom, adding a unique texture to the sound. This makes the headphones well-suited for rock and acoustic music, as well as R&B tracks like Frank Ocean’s “Thinkin Bout You,” where the bass and mids shine.

Mids:

The midrange frequencies of the ATH-WB LTD headphones have a slightly boxy quality, which appears to be a deliberate design choice rather than a flaw. Vocals are elevated yet remain mostly linear, providing a clear and engaging listening experience. While the mids do not offer the highest level of detail, they deliver a faster response compared to the low end. This unique midrange character enhances the overall musicality and earthy timbre of the headphones, making tracks like Kacey Musgraves’ “Deeper Well” sound rich and immersive.

High end: 

The top-end frequencies are linear and musical, avoiding the pitfalls of being overly sharp or bright. This balance ensures that the overall sound signature remains cohesive without becoming muddled. The treble presence maintains clarity and prevents the sound from becoming too warm or muddy, making the headphones enjoyable for extended listening sessions.

Soundstage: 

One of the standout features of the ATH-WB LTD headphones is their exceptionally wide soundstage. The sense of reverb contributes to the feeling of being in a large, live room, enhancing the overall listening experience. This spaciousness, combined with the unique timbral quality of the headphones, creates an immersive environment that is particularly enjoyable with live recordings and acoustic tracks.

Final Thoughts

The ATH-WB LTD headphones by Audio-Technica offer a distinctive and musical listening experience. Their hefty bass, unique midrange, and wide soundstage create a warm, live feel that is especially suited to rock and acoustic music. While they may not provide the highest level of detail, their unique sound signature and earthy timbre set them apart from other premium headphones on the market. Despite some minor build quality concerns, the ATH-WB LTD headphones are an excellent choice for audiophiles seeking a unique and immersive listening experience. Audio-Technica has once again demonstrated their expertise in crafting high-quality audio equipment, making the ATH-WB LTD a standout addition to their lineup.

The Audio-Technica ATH-WB LTD is available at Audio46.com.