Audio-Technica ATH-WB LTD Review

Audio-Technica has announced their new ATH-WB LTD, a stunning new addition to the closed-back dynamic headphone game. Their other equipment is already so influential and well-known in the audio world, between other sets of headphones, earbuds, recording equipment, and even turntables. Their M-series is a classic amongst audiophiles, with the M50x standing as a crowd favorite. The LTD stands as another pair of headphones in a line of greats, so let’s get into the details of these. 

What Comes In The Box

• Audio-Technica Over-Ear Headphones
• Detachable 1.2 m (3.9') cable (A2DC to 3.5 mm (1/8") gold-plated stereo mini-plug
• Detachable 1.2 m (3.9') cable (A2DC to 4.4 mm (1/6"), 5-pole gold-plated balanced plug)
• 6.3 mm (1/4") Adapter
• Carrying pouch

Aesthetics and Functionality

In terms of aesthetics, the LTD captured my attention right away. They are deceivingly luxurious, with three types of wood on the outer ear cups to create natural sounding acoustics. The glossy finish and lightweight feel makes them seem like they might be plastic or a fake wood, but the aluminum framing around gives them a touch of shine that brings out the Audio-Technica logo etched into the sides. The headphones even flatten to fit into the carrying case, which is a nice added feature for people who take their work to go. The sheepskin cushion for the headband and cups make for a comfortable feel on the head and around the ears. The fit was very snug and I didn’t have any worries they would fall off while in use. 

I must admit: since I wear glasses, the tight fit around the head makes for an uncomfortable wearing experience. The stems of my glasses pressed uncomfortably on the side of my head, and it was annoying enough for me to have to take off my glasses to properly enjoy the sound quality. I didn’t particularly like that I had to take my glasses off to get the comfort I knew the LTD could provide. I would take this part with a grain of salt, solely because everyone has different head shapes and eyewear (if any at all), and I would not let that deter you from getting quality headphones. 

What’s even better about the look of the LTD is the functionality. With two different balanced cables and an adapter that can be easily attached, you have three different plug-in options right at your fingertips. 3.5mm, 4.4mm, and 6.3mm male ends are all provided in the box, with the first two ends being attached to cables that go right into the headphone ear cups. While listening, I connected to a portable amp (the iFi GO Bar) and then into my computer. Setting up the headphones was easy, and it was time to start listening. 

Tech Specs

• Type: Closed-back dynamic
• Driver Diameter: 45 mm
• Frequency Response: 5Hz - 50kHz
• Maximum Input Power: 1,000 mw
• Sensitivity: 104 dB/mW
• Impedance: 40 ohms
• Weight: 320 g (11.3 oz), without cable
• Cable: Detachable 1.2 m (3.9') cable (A2DC to 3.5 mm (1/8") gold-plated stereo mini-plug; detachable 1.2 m (3.9') cable (A2DC to 4.4 mm (1/6"), 5-pole gold-plated balanced plug); 6.3 mm (1/4") adapter

Listening Review

Soundstage

The overall soundstage of the LTD does not disappoint. Their triple-wood layered housings are meant to bring a natural sound to instruments, which enhances fullness and harmonics and gives an accurate reproduction of acoustics. This was done brilliantly and was noticeable upon some of my first listening impressions. A wide stereo image makes for an immersive listening experience, and that was definitely provided in the LTD. There is no active noise canceling technology in these headphones, but their over-ear design and high sensitivity makes you believe that you are cut off from outside noise the second you put them on. The closed back design allows for natural, built-in noise cancellation that drags you into any song.

Low Frequencies

The bass frequencies really have their moment to shine with these. With the extended frequency range being outside of standard human hearing, it allows for more subtle harmonics and sub frequencies to ring out and react with the sound we can hear. Substantial synths, booming kicks, smooth bass: all things that are included in these headphones. “Dear Prudence” by The Beatles has a bassline that is practically ingrained in my head. Listening to it on the LTD made it have all the body and space it needed to have the same effect as it did the first time I ever heard it, with added warmth and depth that gave it a whole new level. A range of genres with a thumping low end – including EDM, jazz, folk, and pop – all get to have the body and depth accentuated with added texture.

Mid-Range Frequencies

Of the three frequency ranges touched upon here, I have to say that this section disappointed me the most. That is not to say that I didn’t enjoy it: I would instead call it unexpected. Due to the closed-back design, some frequencies are not given the space to pass through and thus reflect inwards, creating reverberations that affect the original sound. The mid range feels hollowed out, and therefore the songs lose a lot of depth and fullness. I noticed it immediately when I listened to “The Adults Are Talking” by The Strokes, where the snare was ringing in an odd way that didn’t sound quite natural. It had never sounded like that when I listened previously. However, I found that this interesting acoustic profile was not a mistake or poor construction on Audio-Technica’s behalf. It was a deliberate choice with the triple-layered wood design, recreating natural acoustics. It was like they took the songs you knew and placed them into their own custom live room. With that in mind, listening back to the mid range was a delight and an interesting challenge of what I could put into this new environment.

High Frequencies

The high end of the LTD does not disappoint. With a cleverly tuned bass range and acoustically unique mid range, the high end comes in like a refreshing wave of clarity and crispness that balances the entire set. Harmonics can ring out up to 50kHz, which makes for a less compressing sound. Listening to Miracle Musical’s “Labyrinth”, you can hear how the techno and glittery instrumentation has enough room in the sound stage to make a lasting impression and not feel sharp or attacking. It fits in perfectly with the rest of the frequency range, bringing in a lightness that is much needed with such a heavy bass sound. Folk songs that include instruments like the banjo or mandolin have a great presence and signature “twang-y” sound. 

Summary

To conclude, the Audio-Technica ATH-WB LTD headphones are a brilliant piece of audio equipment. Sleek design, clever acoustic engineering, and easy functionality make these a great addition to any audiophile’s arsenal of gear. Its unique sound signature is definitely something I would recommend to try, and to have patience if it’s not exactly what you are expecting. After hours of testing and listening, I knew I had fallen in love with them and couldn’t wait to continue listening and using them in other environments. The price point may be high, starting at $1599, but this pair is limited edition and comes from a consistently reliable brand. This is something you won’t want to miss out on!

You can get the Audio-Technica ATH-WB LTD today from Audio46.