Blink, and you might miss these.
Audio-Technica has released a new audiophile-grade headphone that’s as rare as they are impressive. The ATH-WB LTD are a wired version of the company’s 60th-anniversary model from 2022, the ATH-WB2022.
But, Audio-Technica didn’t just turn its 2022 wireless headphones into analog. They also added a host of features at a slightly more affordable price.
Here’s the kicker, though: only 300 units are up for grabs globally.
Audio-Technica ATH-WB LTD Features
Each pair of the ATH-WB LTD has the same unique three-layer wooden housing as the older model, mixing flame maple, walnut, and mahogany.
But it’s not just for aesthetics. This carefully chosen wood mix aims to improve sound quality for a fuller, more natural tone that picky listeners will like.
One of the main features of the ATH-WB LTD, however, is their newly engineered 45 mm HD driver.
This features a diamond-like carbon-coated diaphragm and a specialized magnetic circuit. The result? A frequency response range of 5 – 50,000 Hz that promises to make your jaw drop
Plus, it’s complemented by the high-purity copper voice coils for an interference-free listening.
But what good is great sound if your ears hurt after an hour? Audio-Technica thought of that too.
The ATH-WB LTD have sheepskin earpads and headband, and a well-designed joint structure for comfort during long listening sessions. And, the aluminum frame isn’t just about durability. It’s also working overtime to minimize unwanted resonance and keep your tunes pure.
Technical specifications
- Form Factor: Closed-back, Over-ear
- Driver Diameter: 45 mm
- Frequency Response: 5 – 50,000 Hz
- 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)
- Housing: Three-layer maple, walnut, and mahogany
- Accessories Included: Carrying pouch, 6.3 mm (1/4″) adapter
ATH-WB LTD vs ATH-WB2022
Now, let’s pit the ATH-WB LTD against their wireless forebearer, the ATH-WB2022.
While both models share the same wooden construction and 45 mm driver size, the ATH-WB LTD take a different approach:
At $1,599, the ATH-WB LTD are much cheaper than the ATH-WB2022’s $2,700 price tag, potentially bringing this level of audio quality to a wider audience.
When it comes to performance, the ATH-WB LTD flex a bit harder in the frequency department. Their 5 – 50,000 Hz range edges out the ATH-WB2022’s 5 – 45,000 Hz. For the detail-obsessed among us, this could mean even more sparkle in those high frequencies.
The wired nature of the ATH-WB LTD also brings its own set of perks.
They’re lighter, weighing 320g compared to the ATH-WB2022’s 350g. This is better for your neck during long listening sessions. Also, with a wired connection, you don’t have to worry about battery life or Bluetooth problems.
Where to Buy
The ATH-WB LTD is now available for $1,599 through select authorized dealers in the U.S. and Canada and via Audio Technica’s official website.