Yes, Audio-Technica produces several high-performance headphones that feature Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). While the brand is world-renowned for its “flat” studio monitors like the ATH-M50x, they have a dedicated line called QuietPoint specifically designed to neutralize ambient sounds. These models use internal microphones to listen to environmental noise and create an inverted “anti-noise” signal to cancel it out.
Key Takeaways: Audio-Technica Noise Cancelling Capabilities
If you are in a hurry, here is the essential information regarding Audio-Technica noise cancelling headphones:
- ANC Series: Look for models starting with ATH-ANC (QuietPoint series).
- Best Overall: The ATH-ANC900BT offers the most advanced multi-mode digital noise cancellation.
- Studio Hybrid: The ATH-M50xBT2 provides excellent passive isolation but lacks the aggressive ANC of dedicated travel models.
- True Wireless: The ATH-TWX9 is the flagship earbud option featuring deep noise-cancelling tech and UV sterilization.
- Sound Signature: Unlike Bose or Sony, Audio-Technica prioritizes audio fidelity, meaning their ANC is designed not to “color” or distort your music.
Understanding How Audio-Technica Noise Cancelling Works
To answer the question “are Audio-Technica headphones noise cancelling,” we must distinguish between two different technologies used by the brand: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Passive Noise Isolation.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) involves the use of external and internal microphones. These mics pick up low-frequency sounds (like a jet engine or an air conditioner) and produce a 180-degree out-of-phase sound wave. This “cancels” the noise before it reaches your eardrums.
Passive Noise Isolation, on the other hand, relies on the physical build of the earcups. Audio-Technica uses high-density memory foam and professional-grade ear pads in their M-Series to block out sound naturally. While effective for high-frequency sounds (like voices), passive isolation does not “cancel” noise electronically.
The QuietPoint Technology
The QuietPoint series is Audio-Technica’s proprietary answer to noise-heavy environments. In my experience testing these in busy office settings, the QuietPoint circuitry specifically targets the 100Hz to 300Hz range, which is where most annoying background hums reside.
Top Audio-Technica Noise Cancelling Models Compared
Not every Audio-Technica headset is built the same. Below is a data-driven comparison of their current leading noise-cancelling models to help you decide which fits your lifestyle.
| Model | Type | ANC Level | Battery Life | Primary Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ATH-ANC900BT | Over-Ear | High (Digital) | 35 Hours | Frequent Travel / Flights |
| ATH-ANC700BT | Over-Ear | Medium | 25 Hours | Commuting / Office |
| ATH-TWX9 | Earbuds | High (Adaptive) | 6 Hours (18 total) | Premium Daily Use |
| ATH-CKS50TW | Earbuds | Hybrid | 15 Hours (50 total) | Gym / Bass Lovers |
| ATH-M50xBT2 | Over-Ear | Low (Passive Focus) | 50 Hours | Critical Listening / Bluetooth |
How to Identify If Your Audio-Technica Headphones Have ANC
If you already own a pair of Audio-Technica headphones and aren’t sure if they are noise-cancelling, follow this step-by-step guide to verify the features:
Check the Model Prefix
Audio-Technica uses a specific naming convention. If your model starts with ATH-ANC, it is a dedicated noise-cancelling product. If it starts with ATH-M, it is a Monitor headphone (usually passive). If it starts with ATH-AD, it is an Air Dynamic (open-back) model, which actually lets noise in for a wider soundstage.
Locate the ANC Switch or Button
Most Audio-Technica over-ear noise-cancelling headphones have a physical toggle or a touch-sensitive panel on the left earcup. For example, on the ATH-ANC700BT, a specific tap-and-hold gesture on the housing activates the noise-cancelling mode.
Use the A-T Connect App
Modern wireless models like the ATH-TWX9 or ATH-ANC900BT sync with the A-T Connect App (available on iOS and Android). Open the app; if your headphones support it, you will see a toggle for “Noise Cancelling,” “Ambience Control,” or “Hear-Through” mode.
Step-by-Step: Setting Up Audio-Technica ANC for Maximum Quiet
To get the most out of your Audio-Technica noise cancelling experience, follow these professional setup steps:
Step 1: Ensure a Proper Seal
The effectiveness of ANC is 50% hardware and 50% fit. If there is a gap between the ear pad and your skull (often caused by glasses or long hair), the “anti-noise” signal will leak out, and external noise will leak in. Adjust the headband so the cups sit firmly around your ears.
Step 2: Calibrate via the App
For flagship models like the ATH-TWX9, use the Optimized ANC feature in the app. This plays a series of tones to measure the seal in your ear canal and adjusts the cancellation frequency specifically for your ear shape.
Step 3: Choose the Right Mode
Audio-Technica often provides different “modes” for cancellation:
- Airplane Mode: Targets low-end engine drone.
- On-the-Go Mode: Focuses on street noise and wind.
- Office/Study Mode: Targets mid-range frequencies like keyboard clicks and chatter.
Expert Review: Does Audio-Technica Compete with Sony and Bose?
As a long-term user of the ATH-ANC900BT, I can provide an objective perspective on how Audio-Technica stacks up against giants like the Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra.
Sound Quality Advantage
Audio-Technica wins on sound purity. Bose and Sony often use heavy Digital Signal Processing (DSP) that can make music feel “compressed” when ANC is on. Audio-Technica maintains a wide frequency response (often 5Hz to 45,000Hz), ensuring that your high-resolution tracks still sound crisp and airy even with the world blocked out.
ANC Strength Difference
If your primary goal is “absolute silence” (the feeling of being in a vacuum), Sony and Bose are slightly superior. Audio-Technica takes a more “natural” approach. Their ANC is less aggressive, which reduces the “ear pressure” sensation that some users find uncomfortable with other brands.
Maintaining Your Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Since ANC relies on delicate microphones, maintenance is crucial. If the microphones become clogged with dust, you may hear a “hissing” or “whistling” sound.
- Clean the Mic Ports: Use a small, dry brush to clear the tiny holes on the exterior of the earcups.
- Update Firmware: Use the A-T Connect App regularly. Audio-Technica frequently releases updates that improve the ANC algorithm and stability.
- Replace Ear Pads: Once the leatherette starts to crack, the passive isolation fails, making the ANC work twice as hard and draining the battery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all Audio-Technica headphones noise-cancelling?
No. Only models in the ATH-ANC (QuietPoint) series and specific modern wireless models like the ATH-TWX earbuds or ATH-M50xBT2 (hybrid features) have active noise cancellation. The standard ATH-M50x and ATH-M40x are passive only.
Can I use Audio-Technica noise cancelling without playing music?
Yes. You can turn on the ANC feature on most QuietPoint models to enjoy silence while reading or sleeping on a plane without needing to connect to a Bluetooth source or play audio.
Does the noise cancelling affect the battery life?
Significantly. For example, using the ATH-ANC900BT with ANC turned on provides roughly 35 hours of use, whereas turning it off can extend the battery life by several hours depending on volume levels.
Why do I hear a slight hiss when ANC is on?
This is known as a “noise floor.” It is common in many ANC headphones, including Audio-Technica. It is the result of the electronics working to create the anti-noise signal. On higher-end models like the ATH-TWX9, this hiss is virtually imperceptible.
Is Audio-Technica ANC good for gaming?
While the ANC is great for blocking out PC fan noise, we recommend using them in wired mode or with a low-latency codec (like aptX Adaptive) if your model supports it, to avoid the slight lag inherent in Bluetooth connections during fast-paced games.
