Audio Technica ATH-MSR7 SonicPro Over ear Headphones IOS and Android Review

Introduction:

The Audio-Technica ATH-MSR7 is one of the best sounding headphones we’ve tested – period. This, along with it equally awesome brother ATH-M50X make the list as one of our most recommended audio products.

The ATH-MSR7 offers audio in the best quality possible, and even includes a Sound Isolation feature to make your tunes stand out from a noisy environment. Let’s check it out.

Manufacturer’s Specification:

• Headphone Type: Closed-back dynamic
• Driver Diameter: 45 mm
• Frequency Response: 5 – 40,000Hz
• Sensitivity: 97dB/mW (Passive); 104dB/mW (Active)
• Impedance: 30 ohms (Passive); 150 ohms (Active)
• Weight: 305 grams (without cable)
• Cable: 1.2 m; 1.2 m with mic and control for smartphones
• Connector: 3.5 mm gold-plated stereo mini-plug; 3.5mm gold-plated stereo mini-plug (4 pole / L-shaped)
• Microphone Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional
• Frequency Response: 50 – 4,000Hz
• Open Circuit Sensitivity: -40dB (1VPa, 1kHz)

Design and Specifications:

The ATH-MSR7 shares similar design aspects with the M50X, and features a sleek headband along with very comfortable padded ear cups. It weighs 290 grams, which is technically heavier than other headphones, so it might be a struggle for some users who would want to use for long periods of time.

The MSR7 includes three cables in its package: two cables that measure 1.2 meters and 3 meters, and another cable that includes an inline remote and microphone, perfect for connecting the headphones to mobile devices like smartphones and tablets.

The over ear design should be enough to envelop the listener in pure high quality sound. The plusher design allows it to be worn comfortably in long periods of time. There are also dual acoustic resistors that accurately provide balanced audio reproduction.

Setup:

I’ve connected the MSR7 to my MacBook listening to mostly uncompressed audio content and on my iPhone using the included cable with inline remote. The included cables of different lengths allow it to be used in different situations. I’ve also hooked up the headphones to a portable amp while testing.

Performance:

Let this be a fact: the MSR7 is one of the best sounding headphones we’ve tested. Bass is excellent, with deep low frequency effects effectively offering a low level experience without being too overwhelming.

Trebles are smooth and pitch is perfect on every level. There is a sense of clarity that you wouldn’t notice from your music even when you’ve listened to it a couple of times. Stereo separation is present, but when wearing the MSR7 its perfectly allocated that you would feel that you aren’t wearing headphones.

Audio Technica ath-Msr7 VS ath-M50x:

Between the MSR7 and the M50X, the MSR7 sounds better but that’s only when we’re nitpicking. Audio-Technica’s ATH-MSR7 sound significantly more natural, in vocals., and the treble is more smooth, while the M50x is more fox on the recording usage. Otherwise, both headphones offer very similar sound experiences, even specifications. The main difference is that the M50X sticks to its studio-grade audience, hence the package does not include the cable with an inline remote.

Supplied Accessories:

• Audio-Technica ATH-MSR7
• Detachable 1.2 m 3.5 mm cable
• Detachable 3 m 3.5 mm cable
• Detachable 1.2 m 3.5 mm cable with inline remote for smartphones
• Carrying case

Pros & Cons:

Pros

• Impressive audio output with tight bass, great details
• Sturdy built
• Elegant look.

Cons:

• Heavy.
• Headband can use more padding.

Conclusion:

The Audio-Technica ATH-MSR7 impresses us with its performance and ultimately makes it one of the top headphones we’ve tested in a while that accurately offers the right audio output perfect for the average listener or the seasoned audiophile.