Audio-Technica, a renowned name in audio technology, has introduced its latest product at CES 2024, the ATH-TWX7 wireless earbuds. Priced at $269, these hi-res, noise-canceling earbuds are designed to be a more affordable alternative to their flagship model, the ATH-TWX9, without compromising on quality.
ATH-TWX7: Feature-Rich and Budget-Friendly
Available in black, white, or grey, the ATH-TWX7 shares several features with the more expensive TWX9, including an ergonomic, stem-based design, touch controls with physical buttons, active noise cancellation (ANC), transparency mode, and support for hi-res audio.
They also offer Bluetooth Multipoint for simultaneous connections to two devices and are rated IPX4 for water resistance, making them suitable for workouts or outdoor use.
Key Differences from ATH-TWX9
While both models support hi-res audio, the ATH-TWX7 uses Sony’s LDAC codec instead of the Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound platform found in the TWX9. LDAC is widely supported in the Android ecosystem and offers up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution, albeit with some trade-offs in terms of battery consumption.
Additionally, the TWX7 lacks wireless charging, the UV-based anti-bacterial system in the charging case, and support for Sony’s 360 Reality Audio – features present in the TWX9.
Battery Life and Performance
The ATH-TWX7 boasts a slightly better battery life compared to the TWX9, with 6.5 hours of continuous playback and up to 20 hours total with the charger. Both models use the same 5.8mm driver, suggesting that the TWX7 will likely deliver a similar sound performance to the TWX9, which has received high praise from reviewers.
The launch of ATH-TWX7 at CES 2024 positions Audio-Technica as a competitive player in the earbuds market, offering high-quality audio experience at a more accessible price point. These earbuds are an attractive option for those seeking premium sound without the premium price tag.