Note: This article was first published on 29 April 2025.
The Audio-Technica ATH-R30x. Photo: Audio-Technica
At CanJam Singapore earlier this month, Audio-Technica released the ATH-R30x, the most affordable headphone yet in its newly revamped R-series of reference-grade open-back headphones.
First, a bit of context. Earlier this year, Audio-Technica decided to update its R-series of reference-grade open-back headphones. This began with the ATH-R70xa and the ATH-R50x. These two headphones feature 45mm dynamic drivers and eschew the old ATH-R70’s legendary wing pads for an entirely new headband design.
Gone is the R-series' distinctive 3D wing pads and in its place is a more traditional headband system. Photo: Audio-Technica
Now, Audio-Technica is following up with the ATH-R30x. This headphone still has an open-back design and uses the same redesigned headband system as the ATH-70xa and ATH-R50x, but features a different 40mm dynamic driver. According to the company, the ATH-R30x was tuned for “home studio production, multimedia content creation, and detailed every day listening.” The other notable difference is that it doesn’t have detachable cables.
I had the chance to experience the ATH-R30x at CanJam Singapore and found that it sounded very promising. Despite having different drivers, I thought the ATH-R30x had a very similar presentation to the ATH-70xa. Both had a pleasant, balanced sound signature that was laid back and intimate. It sounded full and thick-bodied, as if the sounds were coming from speakers.
The R-series consists of the ATH-R70xa, the ATH-R50x, and ATH-R30x. Photo: HWZ
If I had to nitpick, I’d say there is some laziness in the presentation, so it doesn’t sound as incisive as I think reference-grade headphones should. That said, bear in mind that I was listening to the ATH-R30x using equipment and a source I wasn’t familiar with, and streaming through Spotify (which still, to this day, doesn’t offer lossless audio). I'm also not a fan of its non-detachable cable.
At any rate, all these criticisms seem churlish because the ATH-R30x is just S$139, which is honestly not a lot of money for an enthusiast-grade headphone. If you want to get serious about listening to music, it’s an excellent pair of headphones to get started on your audiophile journey.
Availability and pricing
The Audio-Technica ATH-R30x is available now for S$139 and you can find it on the Audio-Technica online store, Lazada, and Shopee.
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