Audio-Technica's new $299 ATH-DSR7BT over-the-ear headphones are the company's first Bluetooth headphones to employ Pure Digital Drive technology, which keeps the audio signal digital from source to driver. These headphones support the aptX HD, aptX, and AAC codecs, as well as NFC pairing. The ATH-DSR7BT is built around the design of the popular ATH-MSR7, it features a re-engineered 45mm True Motion Driver, and its rechargeable battery is rated at 15 hours of continuous use.
From Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica is now shipping its ATH-DSR7BT Wireless Headphones with Pure Digital Drive technology. The ATH-DSR7BT is one of the first headphones with Bluetooth wireless technology to employ Audio-Technica's new Pure Digital Drive system, which keeps the audio signal completely digital from source to driver to offer never-before-available wireless headphone sound quality.
Typically, in headphones using Bluetooth wireless technology, the digital signal goes through a series of steps that process and transform the wireless signal. With each processing step, there's an opportunity for distortion and disruption in the audio quality. With the Pure Digital Drive system used in the ATH-DSR7BT, Audio-Technica uses the Trigence Semiconductor Dnote chipset instead of a traditional D/A converter and amplifier. This keeps the audio signal entirely in the digital domain from the source right through to the driver, thereby eliminating the opportunities for disruption or distortion.
The ATH-DSR7BT is built upon the design and engineering of the award-winning ATH-MSR7. It employs a re-engineered 45mm True Motion Driver with a lightweight bobbin-wound voice coil and a specially designed diaphragm to improve the transient response of the driver. A pair of acoustic resistors controls the airflow around the diaphragm to ensure a natural, balanced sound. The headphones' printed circuit board is mounted away from where it could interfere with the driver's acoustic response, and a layered aluminum housing reduces unwanted vibration and controls internal airflow for maximum audio clarity.
The Pure Digital Drive system also enables the ATH-DSR7BT to overcome the sonic limitations of conventional Bluetooth transmission. The headphones support aptX HD, aptX and AAC codecs (as well as the SBC format) at up to 24-bit/96-kHz and up to 24-bit/48-kHz signals in Bluetooth mode. The ATH-DSR7BT features NFC (Near Field Communication) functionality for ready pairing with an NFC-compatible device. It also features a built-in mic and controller for answering calls and controlling volume and music playback.
The ATH-DSR7BT is able to deliver Hi-Res Audio compliant playback from audio sources when connected via its included USB cable. All the controls and indicators are mounted on one of the earcups for ready access. Three LED indicators provide pairing and charging status, battery level and indication of the codec in use. The ATH-DSR7BT features soft formfitting foam earpads and a padded headband for total long-wearing comfort. Its rechargeable battery provides 15 hours of continuous use (1,000 hours standby).
The Audio-Technica ATH-DSR7BT Wireless Headphones with Pure Digital Drive Technology are currently available at $299.
Additional Resources
• Visit the Audio-Technica website for more product information.
• Audio-Technica Introduces ATH-SR6BT Wireless Headphones at HomeTheaterReview.com.