After spending several weeks with the ATH-ANC900BT, we found that while its sound quality is worthy of the Audio-Technica logos on it, it lacks in other areas. It has many similarities to the Bose QuietComfort 35 II, both good and bad. Given all of the problems, we ultimately don’t believe it’s worth the $299 asking price.
Design
The Audio Technica ATH-ANC900BT headphones are a relatively light listening experience in terms of design. The headphones are made mostly of plastic with extenders made of aluminum for increased strength, yet they are incredibly light. These headphones can also be folded or turned to lay flat thanks to a hinge. The earpads and upper portion of the headband include thick Poly-Leather padding that is comfortable for extended listening sessions. The left earcup has dedicated controls that let you change the volume and playback speed.
The headphones come with a Bluetooth connection and a dedicated button for switching between ANC modes. There is also a passive listen-through mode in addition to the noise-cancelling mode that amplifies background noise. The headphones can be charged using the supplied micro USB cable, and a 3.5mm aux connection is also provided. They can also be used wired with ANC on or off. The ANC900BT also includes an airline adapter and a sturdy carrying case. ..
Audio-Technica ATH-ANC900BT review: Comfort
Over-ear headphones are generally more comfortable in the short term, but this is not a hard and fast rule. Big plush cups and padded headbands are less likely to irritate or fall out as much as in-ear or ear bud style headphones, and they are generally easier on your dome than more clamp-prone on-ear styles. ..
The 900BTs are comfortable and provide good sound quality. They’re not as smooth and velvety as other products, but they’re still comfortable. There is no heat buildup even in Philadelphia’s never-ending heat.
The 900BTs are comparably flexible headphones to other models in this price range. Both the Bose NC700s and Sony WH-1000XM3s do not collapse up into the band when they are around your neck, rotating down so that the front of the cups rest against your shoulders or chest. ..
Our main issue with the 900BT after a few hours is that they are a little heavier than we’d prefer. It’s simple to attribute the weight to factors like the size of the drivers or the amount of tech (such as Bluetooth modules or microphones for voice calls/active noise cancellation) packed into each cup, but Sony’s XM-1000XM3 headphones were light enough for us to forget they were even on our heads and they feature the same tech.
Connectivity
The Audio-Technica ATH-ANC900BT is a Bluetooth 5.0 enabled headset that supports aptX, AAC, and SBC codecs. It has an ANC feature that allows you to keep your audio quality high even when you’re on the go. The battery life is also reliable, with a 35 hour battery life when used with Bluetooth 5.0 turned on. However, it may be extended even further if only one mode is being used; for instance, with the use of a cable connection and ANC turned on.
Audio-Technica ATH-ANC900BT review: Noise cancelling
The 900BT has the strongest noise-cancellation of any Audio-Technica wireless device we have heard. In fact, if it had been any louder, our ears might have begun to feel uncomfortable pressure. Therefore, it is at a level that is just adequate to complete the task. Without a doubt, it will silence the buzz in the background. We’re not so sure about your yapping boss, though. ..
Noise-cancelling technology is often overrated in our opinion. However, on an airplane it is indispensable. With the 900BT, you can alternate between ambient and noise-cancelling modes, allowing you to listen in on your coworker’s argument with his wife. Either pressing the ear cup’s side button or placing your hand on the touchpad will accomplish this. You can also completely disable noise cancellation. ..
Audio performance
The Audio-Technica ATH-ANC900BT headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified because their drivers can provide a broad frequency response spanning from 5 Hz to 40 kHz. Thus, it enables the best possible listening experiences for its high-resolution audio recordings.
The ATH-ANC700BT’s sound quality is arguably its strongest feature, given its Bluetooth 5.0 support. This mid-range headset has a whopping 35 hours of battery life, making it one of the longest-lasting Bluetooth headsets on the market. Compared to most of its competitors, the ATH-ANC700BT offers higher clarity and balance. Fans of balanced audio and subtly enhanced bass will undoubtedly enjoy this model.
The Audio Technica ATH-ANC900BT is a balanced headphone with slightly boosted trebles. While not overpowering the midrange or the highs, the lower frequencies are beautiful, captivating, and rich. As a result, the bass is well-balanced and sounding genuine. Therefore, the bass range is not quite as present as it was with certain previous over-ear headphones. However, Sony WHXB900N may be a superior choice for those looking for an excellent balance of bass and treble.
Audio-Technica’s ATH-ANC900BT headphones are known for their accurate and realistic voice reproduction, as well as their balanced mids and highs. However, the headphones can be a bit too harsh at specific frequencies when music is playing. ..
Battery and charging
The ATH-ANC900BT is an excellent audio product that has a long power life and great sound quality.
Audio-Technica ATH-ANC900BT review: Conclusion
The Audio-Technica ATH-ANC900BT headphones are a great choice for those looking for quality audio and battery life. However, the touch controls on the headphones are not as user-friendly as they could be, and the comfort should be taken into account when making a purchase.
