Audio-Technica ATH-WB2022 Anniversary Wireless Headphones
Audio-Technica's ATH-WB2022 marks the company's 60th anniversary with its first pair of wireless headphones to feature a wooden housing and truly independent channels.
The Audio-Technica ATH-WB2022 wireless headphones sport a newly designed 45mm HD driver featuring a DLC (diamond-like carbon) coated diaphragm. They are said to be capable of "reproducing studio-level sound quality on the go".
If you're looking for more freedom than the ATH-W2022 can provide, the ATH-WB2022 supports LDAC, AAC, and SBC wireless codecs and 24-bit/96 kHz wired and wired playback. Moreover, the new headphones introduce a genuinely independent left-right balance, with a pair of ESS ES9038Q2M DACs alongside separate batteries and Nisshinbo Micro Devices' flagship MUSES05 op amps for each channel. We are told that this "world's first" design delivers "next-level sound separation" without sound interference or cross-talk.
We're told to expect up to 9 hours of hi-fi audio from a single charge. Alternatively, plug into your device using the USB connection for wired listening without needing the battery. A 10 mm diameter condenser microphone ensures crystal-clear audio for calls, while buttons built into the earcups provide easy control of music playback, volume, microphone muting, and voice assistant functions.
The ATH-WB2022 uses solid flame maple, walnut, and mahogany wood panels for the earcups. It sets these wireless headphones apart aesthetically and adds to their refined listening experience due to the material's natural vibration absorption qualities. Additionally, Alcantara is also used to provide a premium tactile experience while offering a sustainable alternative to traditional materials.
Each pair of ATH-WB2022 comes with a rugged designer case, made in collaboration with Zero Halliburton, which has its own esteemed history in transporting precious cargo – including moon rocks from Apollo 11.
The Audio-Technica ATH-WB2022 comes with two 1.5 m 6N-OFC cables: a USB-C to USB-A cable, and a USB-C to USB-C cable, and will be available in limited numbers early next year for a £2,600/ €3000 RRP. In addition, Audio-Technica will replace the built-in battery, Alcantara earpads, and headband free of charge when needed.
Visit Audio-Technica for more information
Jay Garrett
StereoNET’s resident rock star, bass player, and gadget junkie. Jay heads up StereoNET as Editor for the United Kingdom and Europe regions. His passion for gadgets and Hi-Fi is second only to being a touring musician.
Posted in: Headphones
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