Наушники — Audio-Technica ATH-A990Z

The ATH-A990Z is a closed-back model in Audio-Technica's Art Monitor line, presented in a 2015 datasheet as a next-generation Art Monitor with completely redesigned drivers. It is hand-assembled in Japan and uses lightweight aluminium housings finished in a deep metallic green. Audio-Technica lists it as capable of Hi-Res Audio reproduction, and the design combines large-aperture drivers with the company's air damping structure and a self-adjusting headband system. Audio-Technica's European price for it is EUR 260.

Key specs that matter

Newly designed 53 mm dynamic drivers are fitted in both cups. The quoted frequency range is 5 to 42,000 Hz, output sound pressure level is 100 dB/mW and impedance is 44 ohm. Maximum input power is rated at 2,000 mW. The headphone weighs 335 g without its cable. The cord is 3.0 m long, cloth-wrapped to resist tangling and built from a mix of OFC-6N and standard OFC conductors, and it ends in a gold-plated two-way plug that works as either a 6.3 mm or a 3.5 mm stereo connector.

Engineering and use context

The drivers use OFC bobbin-wound voice coils, and the yoke is integrated into the driver structure with the circuit board mounted on top. Audio-Technica states that this layout improves transient response and gives smoother airflow around the diaphragm. The Double Air Damping System, abbreviated D.A.D.S, is built into the housing and is intended to extend the low-frequency range. Aluminium was chosen for the cups because it keeps weight down while limiting unwanted resonance. In place of a standard headband, the A990Z relies on the improved 3D wing support, two pads that rest on the head and adjust to its shape, and the soft earpads are designed for long-wearing comfort. As a closed design, the housings keep most of the output inside the cups and reduce outside noise reaching the listener, which suits shared rooms and late listening.

Pairing

The rated impedance and sensitivity let the A990Z run from portable players, computers and the headphone output built into many stereo amplifiers, and the high maximum input rating means a dedicated headphone amplifier can be used without approaching the limit. Because the plug converts between full-size and mini sockets, no separate adapter is needed when moving from a hi-fi component to a laptop. The long cloth-covered lead suits a chair at some distance from the system at home rather than carrying the headphone outdoors.

Alternatives

The ATH-AWAS is a closed-back Audio-Technica model with Asada Zakura cherry wood housings, rated at 99 dB/mW and 40 ohm.