Audio-Technica ATH-SR9

The technical data of the SR9 read, in any case, impressive. The 45-millimetre True-Motion drivers move a voice coil of OFC-7N (an extremely oxygen-free and thus particularly conductive copper), which a carbon-coated membrane then drives. In addition, the membrane was placed, despite slender housing dimensions, so that it sits exactly in the middle and should thus deliver a uniform air flow and a correspondingly natural sound in the wide range between 5 and 45,000 Hz.

Externals

The light ear-concealing headphone weighing just 270 grams has reversible earcups on both sides. Visually, the headphone, with its subtle colouring in silver and black, definitely pleases. With its small screws (trigram), which are visible on the back of the case and on the hanger, it looks pleasantly technical and solid. However, not everything about it is aluminium; rather, only the drive tray and the slider of the headband—the rest of the case is plastic. It comes with two connecting cables: A long three-metre supply line and a short (1.2 metres) into which a microphone and a controller are integrated for answering calls. The ends of both cables are plugged into the appropriate sockets with A2DC connectors.

Handling

The ATH-SR9 is comfortable to wear over longer listening sessions thanks to its lightweight and soft “memory foam” used in the head and ear cushions. In addition, the ear cups on the back—although it’s a closed headphone as per the specification—have three small ventilation slots, which somewhat mitigates the infamous heat build-up on the ears.

Sound Quality

The good news first: the high-resolution technology works because the SR9 adapts very well to the music. Especially in the heights and mid-peaks, it covers everything down to the last detail. It gives the greatest attention to every little bit of transience and presents it with steely clarity and precision. The downside: with so much height information, the bass clearly takes a back seat. Those who prefer heavy bass performance will not be particularly happy with Audio-Technica, as the sound signature of the Japanese hi-fi smith traditionally tends towards “fine highs, subtle basses”. It provides a precise, surgical sound with strong high-mid-presence. That’s great when it comes to exposing mistakes in professional sound work, however, such as in editing or post-production. Even high-end connoisseurs will feel comfortable. For the extended enjoyment of music, it is quite a demanding companion.