Audio-Technica ATH-ANC500BT Review

With new wireless Audio-Technica headphones constantly arriving on my desk, I’m beginning to lose track. And the ANC500BT looks a lot like the other Audio-Technica models I’ve tested in this price range. But for 100 bucks, noise cancellation is what separates these cans from the rest. Usually, this feature is reserved for pricier headphones. But Audio-Technica has decided to implement it into a more affordable package. So, how effective are these noise-cancelling headphones, and do they sound any good? Let’s find out in this Audio-Technica ATH-ANC500BT Review.

Review Audio-Technica ATH-ANC500BT Headphones

IN the BOX

FIT

The ANC500BT will suit anyone who’s looking for something relatively small around the ears that doesn’t feel too obtrusive. But if you’re after a plush and luxurious feel, you might want to keep looking. For my lady ears, the ANC500Bt was just the right size, and I liked the light and snug fit. 

DESIGN

The effectiveness of the noise-cancellation feature is less than mind-blowing. It would be safer to say that these cans reduce a slight amount of noise, mostly ambient hum. And you can probably get at least the same sound isolation form an in-ear pair of headphones. That being said, you shouldn’t expect absolute noise reduction even from the priciest noise-cancelling models.

Battery life is 20 hours, which is around standard for a pair of cans in this price range. If you do run out of juice or you’re flying, the ANC500BT can be used passively with the included cable.

These headphones come with the usual functions; 3 buttons on the left side of the ear cup control play/pause, skip, volume and call answering.

Call clarity is decent for headphones in this price range. I heard the caller on the other end clearly, though my voice, apparently, sounded a little distant. I have a lot on my mind.

The ANC500BT swivels flat, but doesn’t fold. A slight bummer if you’re travelling a lot. That being said, these cans are small enough to easily fit in a backpack. Just be careful not to break them.

SOUND

Big low end, ear-friendly balance.

Lows

Audio-Technica delivers a generous bass response. Bass guitars have tons of dry grip, giving pop music a punchy feel. However, the low end is very thick, and it slightly clouds the higher frequencies in rock songs with a big bass. So, it’s not an entirely clean sound. But listening to strings in this range, these cans offer a pleasing smoothness and warmth.

Mids

A very present and even midrange. You’ll get the entire spectrum of sound in the mids, giving a lot of meat to big rock songs. At the same time, these cans can handle acoustic guitars delicately, conveying good separation and a generally clean feel. Pianos and vocals have a softness and fluidity, and overall, this headphone is very forgiving on the ears.

Highs

This isn’t a bright headphone. And some people might miss the sparkle in percussion when listening to pop. But again, if you’re easily fatigued by higher frequencies, then these cans will be easy to tolerate. And transparency remains decent for a pair of wireless cans at this price point.

Soundstage

You won’t get too much dimension or spaciousness from these affordable cans. But listening to live recordings, you’ll still be able to place instruments especially in terms of height and width.

SUMMARY

If your priority is noise cancellation, then you might need to raise your budget to get something more effective. But if you just need to kill a little hum, then these are decent sounding cans that will work across all genres.

You can find these headphones for the best price at:

Audio 46:(Use our promo code, “majorhifi” to get 10% off) Audio-Technica ATH-ANC500BT Headphones

Amazon:Audio-Technica ATH-ANC500BTBK QuietPoint Wireless Active Noise-Cancelling Headphones, Black

Alternatively, try Strauss & Wagner SW-ANCBT501 Headphones

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