While many listeners may believe that high-resolution audio came along with the introduction of the Compact Disc in 1982, constraints on the disc’s storage space always prevented CD audio (standardised at 44.1 kHz/16-bit) from fully and completely reproducing the original recorded sound. The advent and subsequent popularity of MP3s only made this problem more pronounced the necessary compression of these files causes audio information to be lost, thus greatly reducing the audio quality. But with lossless audio file formats, faster Internet speeds, and storage space increasingly easy to come by (and in ever-smaller packages), the push is on to create audio equipment capable of capturing and reproducing true Hi-Res Audio, generally considered to be 96 kHz/24-bit or better.
The Hi-Res Audio logo certifies that a product meets the Hi-Res Audio standards. Per these standards, headphones must have transducer frequency performance to at least 40 kHz. As a producer of these types of audiophile headphones since 1972, Audio-Technica is well-positioned to provide audio solutions that meet the demands of Hi-Res Audio media formats, allowing for the full reproduction of their extended sonic characteristics.
For the housings of the ATH-AWAS over-ear wooden headphones, we’ve selected the rare Asada Zakura (Japanese cherry) wood. Renowned for its use in high-end audio speakers due to its fine acoustic characteristics and durability, the striking red Asada Zakura suppresses unwanted resonance inside the ear cups for clear, natural sound reproduction. The half-gloss finish, applied by hand, accentuates the wood’s gentle grain and warm beauty.
The headphones are equipped with exclusive 53 mm drivers with powerful magnetic circuitry, integrated pure-iron yoke, DLC (diamond-like carbon) coating, and 6N-OFC (high-purity, oxygen-free copper) voice coils for exceptional full-range audio reproduction. Our exclusive D.A.D.S. (Double Air Damping System), which divides the housing structure into two separate acoustic chambers, ensures smooth, accurate bass response.
The arms that hold the housings are made from a lightweight, highly rigid magnesium alloy. The arms are angled to provide the best possible fit with excellent earcup seal. The comfortable fit is enhanced by smooth, synthetic leather earpads and headband.
The headphones also feature A2DC (Audio Designed Detachable Coaxial) jacks for secure connection to the two included 3.0 m (9.8') detachable cables. One cable has a 6.3 mm (1/4") gold-plated stereo plug for use with standard audio equipment. The other cable features a 4-pin XLRM balanced connector for use with the latest high-fidelity equipment to achieve better channel separation.
Key Features
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these premium headphones feature hand-finished Asada Zakura (Japanese cherry wood) housings with a refined half-gloss finish that not only enhances their natural beauty but also helps reduce unwanted resonance for greater sonic clarity. At the core are exclusive 53 mm dynamic drivers, driven by powerful magnetic circuitry to deliver an expansive full-range audio experience. The integrated pure-iron yoke improves transient response, ensuring fast, accurate sound reproduction, while a DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coated diaphragm enhances high-frequency response for exceptional detail. For optimal signal integrity, the headphones are equipped with a 6N-OFC (High-Purity Oxygen-Free Copper) voice coil, contributing to a more accurate and dynamic performance.
The innovative D.A.D.S. (Double Air Damping System) delivers deep, controlled bass, balancing low-end power with acoustic precision. Included are two detachable 3.0 m (9.8-foot) cables one terminating in a 6.3 mm gold-plated stereo plug, and the other in a 4-pin XLRM balanced plug to accommodate different high-fidelity audio setups. An angled magnesium alloy headphone arm ensures a precise fit and optimal ear cup seal, enhancing both comfort and acoustic isolation. The use of smooth synthetic leather ear pads and headband further guarantees long-lasting comfort during extended listening sessions. Every pair is expertly hand-assembled in Tokyo, Japan, reflecting a legacy of craftsmanship and engineering excellence
Technical Specifications
| Category |
Specification |
| Headphone Type |
Closed-back dynamic |
| Driver Diameter |
53 mm |
| Frequency Response |
5 – 42,000 Hz |
| Maximum Input Power |
2,000 mW |
| Sensitivity |
99 dB/mW |
| Impedance |
40 ohms |
| Weight |
395 g (13.9 oz) (without cable) |
| Cable 1 |
3.0 m (9.8 ft) detachable cable (A2DC to 6.3 mm gold-plated stereo plug, elastomer sheath, OFC) |
| Cable 2 |
3.0 m (9.8 ft) balanced cable (A2DC to 4-pin XLRM, fabric-braided sheath, OFC) |
