Audio Technica ATH-ANC1 review

These noise cancelling cans are ideal for a frequent flyer, whose main priority is portability Tested at £80.00

By

Our Verdict

You can buy better sound, but their portability and noise-cancelling makes them worth a look

For

  • Impressive noise-cancelling
  • balanced, detailed delivery
  • lightweight and very portable

Against

  • A bit sluggish when passive
  • a bit lightweight when active

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

You can buy better sound, but their portability and noise-cancelling makes them worth a look

Pros

  • + Impressive noise-cancelling
  • + balanced, detailed delivery
  • + lightweight and very portable

Cons

  • - A bit sluggish when passive
  • - a bit lightweight when active

These Active noise-cancellers are the type with a battery in a unit on the cable, allowing Audio Technica to make the headphone section small and light.

The on-ear design isn't quite as comfy as a full-on over-ear, but the 'ANC1s are surprisingly good at blocking out noise.

They also offer a balanced, detailed delivery that lends itself well to all music. However, next to the class-leading Goldring NS-1000s they do lack spaciousness and attack.

But if you're a frequent flyer whose priority is portability, these are well worth a look.

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What Hi-Fi?
What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.


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