Studio staples Audio-Technica reestablish themselves in the wireless field with an interesting new headphone. While not the first wireless open-back they have done, the ATH-AL5NC looks to be a serious step forward with its modern features and updated drivers. Can the AL5NC’s portable convenience make it a strong at-home competitor to wired open-backs? How does it stand against other wireless headphones?
Package Contains
- ATH-AL5NC Headphones
- USB Charging Cable (50cm USB Type-A/USB Type-C)
- Cable With Inline Mic and Control
- Pouch
Build Design
Speaking of Audio-Technica’s previous wireless open-backs, the AL5NC appears to be a direct visual successor to the Japan-exclusive ATH-HL7BT. These models defer from the Audio-Technica standard by subbing their typical white accents for a metallic bronze. The mesh-esque open-back shell matches the fabric on the pads and headband cushion, creating a satisfying thematic consistency. Overall, these headphones stand out amongst the company lineup whilst keeping their industrial tradition.
Material quality was promising in some areas, but reasonably felt short in others given the price range. Metal hinge supports feel nice and tough with a portable-friendly fold. The headband adjuster is also sturdy with a firm hold. Unfortunately, the plastic shell feels a bit cheaper than others in the price range, but not enough to be frail.
While the pads and headband padding have a soft cushioned fit, the fabric itself is a tad stuffy. When placed on the head, it is noticeably comfortable in longform use, but moving them around to adjust revealed an abrasiveness and heat in the fabric. While this specific feeling is certainly a nitpick, listeners should be wary that the pads might get hot.
Audio Design
As a wireless headphone, the most notable aspect of the AL5NC’s design is its open-back build. A rare setup typically reserved for gaming headphones, Audio-Technica aims to place it in the hands of audiophiles seeking the advantages of an open-back headphone in a far more portable package. Designed specifically for the AL5NC is a 53 millimeter dynamic driver, pushing a robust sound that is dynamic and musical.
Connecting through Bluetooth to my Dell Inspiron laptop, the AL5NC reached a comfortable volume at 73%. This was enough headroom for me, but those who listen loud might be disappointed with what is here.
- Frequency Response: 20-40,000Hz
- Sensitivity: 103 dB/mW
- Impedance: 52 ohms
Feature Design
Packed with familiar features and interesting tricks, the AL5NC has enough to satisfy wireless headphone regulars and entice prospective newcomers. Noise cancelling is an obvious staple, with two different settings labeled “Home” and “Airplane.” Being entirely honest, I did not notice much difference between them, and nowhere in the manual or Audio-Technica’s site provides further insight into what they specifically mean. Fortunately, they both work well to block out most outside noise. As another way to reduce noise and focus, the AL5NC’s “Soundscape” function can play background audio like nature or meditation sounds. Anyone looking to take these open-backs outside can take advantage of the sound leakage prevention mode, which reduces audio bleed.
Additionally, the AL5NC gains access to the A-T Connect app, which provides further controls for onboard features and extra options for customization. Predominately, you get manual options for EQ and codec control to refine and polish your sound. An uncommon feature I found very welcome was a tracker to locate the headphones when lost. I am aware brands like Apple have these features as a default, but I appreciate having a universal dedicated application to track my headphones.
Connection Capabilities
The AL5NC offers Bluetooth 5.3 connection, supporting the LDAC, AAC, and SBC codecs. Not as up-to-date or varied as other Bluetooth headphones, but LDAC alone provides a quick and strong connection to stream wirelessly. Multipoint pairing enables simultaneous connection between two devices, distinctly supporting a portable at-home device. The included 3.5mm cable allows for the AL5NC to operate as a standard wired open-back, with added options for microphone and button controls.
Battery
Audio-Technica continues the trend of gargantuan battery life for their Bluetooth headphones. Extending past the ATH-M50xBT2’s 50 hour battery life, the AL5NC has a staggering 75 hours of life with ANC turned off. With ANC, the AL5NC matches the BT2 with 50 hours. Combining over two days of charge with a 3.5 hour charging speed results in a headphone that can handle any at-home listening session or commute with sound leakage prevention mode.
Soundstage
This is probably the climax of the review. Existing as a portable audiophile open-back means competing with both wireless closed-backs as well as wired open-backs with a Bluetooth DAC. Where those options sacrifice open staging and seamless portability respectively, is the AL5NC a satisfactory compromise? Are the headphones worth considering as a third choice? I would say yes. It certainly does not beat either alternative where they excel, but these headphones are a great middle ground for audiophiles constantly on the move in or out of the house.
Staging was pleasantly wide and deep, conveying a large sense of scale and separation. While not as notable, there was some verticality to the stage to make it decently dimensional. Instruments layer appropriately, and remain distinct when listening for them. Overall, the AL5NC makes a strong case amongst both angles of competition.
Low End
Even stepping away from the closed-back model, the AL5NC does not move from a typical prominent bass. As the star of the signature, the low end contributes to a forceful but smooth warmth. Instruments and synths carry more musicality than precision, but not enough to get frustratingly muddy. High energy dance tracks take full advantage of this fluidity, developing an exciting underbelly to compliment these songs.
Mids
Compared to the outwardly expressive bass, the AL5NC’s midrange appears underwhelming. However, it remains clear with a vocal fronted presentation. My biggest gripe was its filtered timbre that hindered my complete immersion into the sound. In between a strong bass and supportive treble, the mids feel like a slight letdown.
Highs
The highs step into a more supportive role, being decently rolled off. There is not much room for sparkle or brightness, but the treble’s crisp speed kept my attention as a complimentary highlight to the bass. Pairing a musical bass with a technical treble crafts an exciting tone that is not energetically bloated or clinically sterile. The resulting signature is dark and warm with some precise chops to satisfyingly cut through.
Final Verdict
As I previously implied, Audio-Technica’s latest is an exciting pair of headphones in a category almost all its own. Blending hardline attempts at portable Hi-Fi, the headphones’ open-back stage and wireless features give audiophiles a compelling sound without any complicated add-ons. Commuters and active home audiophiles craving a broader scope of sound now have a serious option at a welcoming price. For those looking to spec in either end of the spectrum might find better results in standard wireless headphones or a portable DAC setup.
The Audio-Technica ATH-AL5NC is available for $279 at Audio46.
