Two of the most talked about wireless headphones this year are the new Audio Technica ATH-DSR7BT and the ATH-DSR9BT. These over-ear audiophile quality headphones are some of the best sounding Bluetooth headphones on the market. But the difference in price has headphone fanatics asking what’s the big difference between the DSR7BT and DSR9BT. Well MajorHiFi is here to sort out the details to compare the features and sound in both headphones.
ATH-DSR7BT and ATH-DSR9BT Comparison
Comparison Chart
To start it off lets take a look at the specs and features of both the ATH-DSR7BT and ATH-DSR9BT in a comparison chart.
| ATH-DSR7BT | ATH-DSR9BT | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear / Closed Back | Over-Ear / Closed Back |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 4.2 / NFC | Bluetooth 4.2 / NFC |
| Impedance | 35 Ohms | 38 Ohms |
| Driver | 45mm Pure Digital Drive | 45mm Pure Digital Drive |
| Bluetooth Codecs | aptX HD / aptX / AAC / SBC | aptX HD / aptX / AAC / SBC |
| Wireless Range | 33 feet | 33 feet |
| Sample Rate Playback | 24-bit 48kHz / 96kHz w/USB cable | 24-bit 48kHz / 96kHz w/USB cable |
| Frequency Range | 5Hz – 40,000Hz | 5Hz – 45,000Hz |
| Sensitivity | 100 dB/mW | 98 dB/mW |
| Battery Life | 15 hrs | 15 hrs |
| Device Memory | Up to 8 devices | Up to 8 devices |
| Controls | on/off, play/pause, volume, track advance | on/off, play/pause, volume, track advance |
| Aux Cable | No Aux Cable / Digital USB Only | No Aux Cable / Digital USB Only |
| Accessories | Carry Bag | Hard Case |
Similarities
As you can see from the chart there are quite a few similarities between the Audio Technica ATH-DSR7BT and ATH-DSR9BT wireless headphones. Both are over-ear headphones utilizing Bluetooth 4.2 or NFC for connectivity. They also both have the custom 45mm True Motion Drivers. Using the Pure Digital Drive technology these unique drivers are able to translate digital audio directly into motion in the driver through a special chipset. This eliminates the need for a digital audio converter keeping the sound pure and clean.
You can also see on the chart other similarities in these two headphones like wireless range, battery life, on-board controls and no aux cable. Instead the ATH-DSR7BT and ATH-DSR9BT have a micro to USB cable for connecting directly to your computer for pure Hi-Res audio capabilities.
Differences
The main differences between these two headphones comes down to a few vital specifications as well as the sound and fit.
Specs
First the Audio Technica ATH-DSR7BT has a frequency range of 5Hz to 40,000Hz while the ATH-DSR9BT has a range of 5Hz to 45,000Hz. Another difference is the ATH-DSR7BT has an impedance of 35 Ohms but the ATH-DSR9BT is at 38 Ohms. This is a small but noteworthy difference. You’ll also notice the DSR9BT comes with a nice hard carry case while the DSR7BT has a carry bag. The only other difference in specs is the design and build. Both headphones are built with similar parts and padding but have notable differences in design and color.
Sound
So the sound is really where these two headphones set themselves apart. Comparing both the DSR7BT and DSR9BT head to head with a DAP using the Qualcomm aptX coded I went back and forth through some familiar tracks in uncompressed and lossless formats. What I discovered were subtle yet significant differences in the sound signature of each headphone. The ATH-DSR7BT was crisp, relatively balanced yet a little bit punchy too. The ATH-DSR9BT had a much wider, open sound and the clarity the higher frequencies was much more clear due to the added 5000 Hz on the top-end of the spectrum.
Fit
Although both headphones seem to be built similarly they are in fact a little different. The DSR7BT feels a bit more like an MSR7 headphone. The padding is comfortable and snug. The DSR9BT however is a bit more comfortable. It has a slightly wider headband and just feels nicer around the ears.
Summary
Both the Audio Technica ATH-DSR7BT and ATH-DSR9BT are incredible new headphones that push the limits of wireless technology. I would even consider them to be audiophile quality headphones which is tough to do when going wireless. When it comes down to it, there’s a lot of similarities in build, technology, features and sound with the DSR7BT and DSR9BT. If you’re looking for an affordable, wireless audiophile headphone the ATH-DSR7BT will definitely fit the bill. But if you’ve got a little more cash and want added comfort, a wider sound spectrum and a premium case for travel, the ATH-DSR9BT will definitely thrill.
Find the best price on the Audio Technica ATH-DSR7BT wireless headphone at Audio46 Headphone Store with code “majorhifi” or on Amazon
Buy the Audio Technica ATH-DSR9BT wireless headphone for the best price at Audio46 Headphone Store with code “majorhifi” or on Amazon
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