Audio Technica ATH-ADG1X

Audio-Technica is known for high-end audio products. In our product field, the Japanese are one of the lesser-known manufacturers. At first glance, the Audio-Technica ATH-ADG1X is one thing above all: enormously expensive. why this Price-Performance Ratio with the only open headphones in comparison, you will find out in our test.

The Audio-Technica ATH-ADG1X is the undisputed test winner in our comparison. The device passes every criterion at least well and offers excellent comfort, good audio and microphone quality and flawless workmanship. But all this comes with a corresponding, enormously high price.

Timelessly elegant design

The ATH-ADG1X looks fantastic. The silver frame of the headphones looks high quality, the velor inlay of the headphones is soft and comfortable. The outside of the headphones is made of aluminum and reveals the open characteristics of the headset with an all-over honeycomb-style grid. With a weight of 289 grams, the headset is in the middle of the range. The special size adjustment also contributes to the light weight of the headset. Due to the futuristic arrangement, conventional headphone stands quickly reach their limits because they are not high enough. Overall, we really like the design and the workmanship of the Audio-Technica ATH-ADG1X. The Japanese do without exaggerated gamer design and stick to their usual serious look.

Superior sound

Anyone who puts on the ADG1X and has only been used to cheaper gaming headsets will be surprised. The headphones impress with detailed reproduction and balanced highs and lows. Audio-Technica does without gamer features such as exaggerated bass or surround sound. The ATH-ADG1X behaves more like studio headphones than a gaming headset. The sound could only be a bit sharper. Minor adjustments in the equalizer can help.

Due to the open characteristic, there is no noise insulation. If you play in noisy environments or prefer to completely immerse yourself, you should take this into account. However, we prefer being able to hear our own voice without enabling feedback via the drivers. By the way: The Audio-Technica does not have any drivers and works immediately without any restrictions.

Suitable for streamers

The Microphone of the ATH-ADG1X was our light at the end of the tunnel. Aside from the Razer Kraken, it's the only viable mic in the range. It sounds noise-free and loud enough, but of course it sounds a bit dull. Due to the pop protection, there are hardly any exaggerated S-sounds. The microphone has a directional characteristic and is extremely flexible. This makes precise positioning child's play. In our opinion, that's even enough for streaming or recording videos. 

Comfortable to wear

Audio-Technica calls the brackets of the ADG1X “3D grand piano system”. The size of the headset is adjusted automatically when you put it on thanks to the flexible headrests. This works wonderfully and contributes to the high level of comfort of the device. The fabric inlay of the headphones is soft and comfortable. In combination with the open design, the ADG1X keeps you cool. Even long sessions shouldn't be a problem. The connected cable measures 1,25 meters and should be long enough for most setups. For everyone else there is a simple jack extension that increases your range by 2 meters. Unfortunately, the ADG1X lacks a USB sound card.

Really good and expensive

After this really short review there is nothing more to say. The Audio-Technica ATH-ADG1X is one of the best gaming headsets on the market and has hardly any criticisms worth mentioning. A USB sound card would be nice, but the performance is convincing even without it. The somewhat dull microphone clearly outperforms the competition. If you like surround sound and closed headphones, you might not be happy, but everyone else will be delighted. However, the joy will settle at the latest when it comes to the price. One thing is clear: not everyone can or wants to afford the ADG1X. For those, we have summarized other, cheaper headsets in our comparison. Anyone who decides to do so will be absolutely satisfied.