CONS: Requires battery for noise canceling.
PRICE: $99
A lot of the times, especially in pro studios, outside noise and distractions aren’t a huge issue when recording, as studios are soundproofed to protect against such nuisances. But for home recorders, this isn’t always an option (or practical). Enter AT’s new QuietPoint Noise Canceling Headphones, a steal at just $99, which offer the comfort and excellent sound quality Audio-Technica is known for, now in a quieter package. When the noise-canceling switch is activated (one AAA battery is required for active noise canceling; without a battery the headphones still operate passively without noise reduction employed), all outside sounds disappear and what you’re left with is simply the music.
A dramatic soundstage is likely what you’ll first notice with these cans on, followed by the realization that bass is tight, realistic and not over-exaggerated (which seems to be the current trend) – a true blessing for anyone trying to properly mix their own recordings. Battery life is great; we ran through an entire 8-hour session, watched back a concert DVD and listened to an iPod with juice left over more than a week later. Add to the great sound quality a nifty carrying case plus quarter-inch and airplane adapters, and you’ve got yourself a solid, inexpensive new pair of headphones for musical enjoyment and for recording purposes. Highly recommended.
FEATURES
Type: Active noise-canceling
Driver Diameter: 40 mm
Freq. Response: 20 – 20,000 Hz
Noise Reduction: Up to 18 dB
Battery Life: Up to 40 hours
Weight: 192 g (6.8 oz)
Accessories Included: 1/4″ stereo adapter; airline adapter; AAA battery; carrying case with attached accessory pouch