Open and Airy: Audio-Technica ATH-ADX5000 Open-Back Headphones Feature 58mm Drivers, Efficient Airflow, and Exquisite Craftsmanship

Audio-Technica’s ATH-ADX5000 are exceptional headphones, designed for music lovers who seek reference-level sound. The embodiment of Japanese craftsmanship and expert engineering, they represent a new standard for open-back headphone performance. They utilize Core Mount Technology, which optimally positions the driver unit within the housing to improve airflow efficiency. The efficient airflow helps the headphones reproduce highly transparent midrange and high frequencies, as well as rich, precise bass.

The 58mm integrated driver units combine a tungsten-coated diaphragm, baffle, and Permendur magnetic circuit in a single unit to reduce unwanted vibration. Because no screw clamps are required, there is a decrease in the weight. The baffle is made of a highly rigid polyphenylene sulfide (PPS)/glass fiber composite to provide stable diaphragm movement.

The housings of the ATH-ADX5000 have a honeycomb-punched design that keeps the housing face open to ventilation, while closing off the sides. This design delivers an accurate, natural sound, but prevents air-pressure loss, which can negatively affect sound quality. The frame is constructed of strong, lightweight magnesium, and the earpads and headband are fashioned from Alcantara, a material known for its extreme durability and comfort.

ATH-ADX5000 comes with a detachable 9.8-foot (3-meter) cable with A2DC (Audio Designed Detachable Coaxial) connectors at the headphones and a 1/4" (6.3-millimeter), gold-plated stereo plug for connecting to devices. Each pair is individually identified by a laser-etched serial number and arrives housed in a hard carrying case.

"Paired with the right source, these can be a great all-rounder, offering flexibility in tuning, allowing it to appeal to those who demand perfect objectivity, and those who may want to have a more engaging listen. This is mainly because of the more resolving and well-behaved nature of the treble, which is always a treat to listen to."
—Headfonics

"[If] I'll remember one feature of the ADX5000, it'll be the sense of air. And in terms of where these Audio-Technicas are perched in the flagship headphone realm, they do occupy rarefied air, indeed."
—Matty Graham, Headfonia

"Overall, the ADX5000 is a headphone that will get a strong recommendation from me. And I hope that it's one you'll keep on your radar if you're on the lookout for a top-tier, dynamic-driver headphone."
—The Headphone Show (YouTube)