Audio Technica – ATHCLR100BT Review

The Brand name – Audio-Technica is usually associated with High-End Professional Audio equipment, Most people first hear about Audio-Technica is either through Technics Turntables or the M50x Headphones. In the Budget segment, the ATH-CLR100 has been a big success for the Brand and now Audio-Technica has upgraded it with Bluetooth and more features.

Unboxing 

Inside the box of ATH-CLR100BT, you get all the basic stuff, a USB type A to Micro-USB cable, some ear tips and the user manuals. The ATH-CLR100BT comes in 4 colours, Black, Blue, Red and White. We were sent the BLUE coloured variant for review purposes. 

Features 

Even though ATH-CLR100BT is placed in the budget segment, Audio-Technica has not skimped on features. You get IPX2 rating for Water and dust resistance, making them a perfect pair for gymming or even using in the rains. And unlike last time, there is an in-line mic for making and receiving calls. Bluetooth version 5.0 is supported, offering high-quality and reliable audio connection along with the multi-pairing feature that allows for two Bluetooth devices to be connected simultaneously. The headphones come with 8.7mm drivers and offer a straight 7 hours of battery on a single charge and 200hrs of standby times.

Build Quality 

At 17gms the ATH-CLR100BT are featherweight and makes it easy wearing them for long periods of time. The cables look thin but are well made and look like they will survive occasional tugs and snags. There are two plastic modules on either side, the module on the right side has the play, pause and microphone unit, while the left side one probably has the battery. The earbuds are small and the Mount-Fuji shaped cones actually make them quite comfortable for long usages. 

Sound Quality 

If you have heard the M50’s, you would know what the Brand’s sound signature is like. The ATH-CLR100BT maybe be in the budget segment but the sound quality is top-notch. The sound quality right out of the box was very good, with clear mids and highs, the bass was just apt, not overpowering. We did “run-in” the drivers after unboxing for 24hours or so. The rich sound signature is very enjoyable and can be used for long periods of time without ear fatigue. 

Verdict 

Audio-Technica has been the number one headphone brand by volume in Japan for nine years running. Priced at Rs. 2,499 the ATH-CLR100BT makes a good case for itself in a highly crowded Indian market. The ATH-CLR100BT bring with them the sound signature and high quality and reliability of Japanese engineering.