Audio-Technica unveils new headphones range, first gaming headsets

The SonicFuel ATH-OX5 and ATH-OX7AMP on-ear headphones for use with smartphones and tablets were among a raft of new headphones unveiled by Audio-Technica at CES 2014.

A new range of SonicFuel CHX buds and SonicFuel AX headphones were also launched by Audio-Technica at CES, along with the company's first ever gaming headsets.

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Both the SonicFuel ATH-OX5 and ATH-OX7AMP are designed for audiophiles looking to get the best possible sound from their portable devices.

Features include a detachable cable with volume and track control, built-in microphone, an extra cable and carry pouch. Both models are expected to be available to buy from spring 2014.

The SonicFuel ATH-OX7AMP (£200), which offers a 9-26,000Hz frequency response and a built-in battery powered amplifier, boosts the volume output level from smartphones and tablets.

Meanwhile, the ATH-OX5 (£130) comes without the amplifier, provides a 15-22,000Hz frequency response and a 40mm driver unit designed to handle more demanding rock and pop music.

Audio-Technica's new SonicFuel CHX range comes with a revolutionary ear-tip that fuses in-ear headphones with more traditional earbud style headphones to create a new hybrid product.

The ATH-CHX7iS (£45) and ATH-CHX5iS (£30) offer full sound with deep bass, but let you hear what's going around you when out and about while also keeping your music private.

In-line controls for calls and music functions can be found on each of the tangle-free flat cables, which Audio-Technica says makes the SonicFuel CHX range ideal for music fans on the go.

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A new range of SonicFuel AX over-ear headphones mark an expansion of SonicFuel's collection of CKX Series in-ear headphones and are fully compatible with the latest smartphones.

The new range comprises the ATH-AX5iS (£65), ATH-AX3iS (£45) and ATH-AX1iS (£30), with all models coming with a built-in microphone and cord-mounted remote.

All three models feature swivelling earcups for a comfortable over-ear fit, with the ATH-AX5iS and ATH-AX3iS also offering a padded headband for additional comfort.

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Audio-Technica also confirmed it will be expanding its SonicSport fitness-orientated range with the launch of its ATH-CKP200iS (RRP £35) ear hook style headphones.

A cord-mounted remote lets you control volume and music playback functions on the fly, as well as providing easy access to controls on a range of compatible portable devices.

Elsewhere, Audio-Technica entered the world of gaming with its first ever gaming headsets – the closed-back ATH-AG1 and open-back ATH-ADG1 models.

The design and engineering of the two models are directly influenced by Audio-Technica's A700 and AD700 Series, with both featuring large 53mm drivers and bobbin-wound CCAW voice coils.

Audio-Technica says the ATH-AG1 and ATH-ADG1 will be available in spring this year for £240 and £265 respectively.

by Pete Hayman

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Pete was content editor on What Hi-Fi?, overseeing production and publication of digital content. In creating and curating feature articles for web and print consumption, he provided digital and editorial expertise and support to help reposition What Hi-Fi? as a ‘digital-first’ title; reflecting the contemporary media trends. He is now a senior content strategist.