Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones User Manual

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Package Contents
3. Connecting the Headphones
4. Adjusting the Headphones for Comfort
5. Using the Headphones with Gaming Consoles
6. Cleaning and Maintenance
7. Troubleshooting
8. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones. These headphones are designed to provide you with a natural listening experience, featuring 53mm drivers with CCAW voice coils for outstanding sound quality. Please read this user manual carefully before using the headphones to ensure proper use and care.

2. Package Contents

• Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones
• Gold-plated stereo 1/8" (3.5 mm) connector
• 1/4" (6.3 mm) adapter

3. Connecting the Headphones

To connect the headphones to your audio source, follow these steps:

1. Insert the gold-plated stereo 1/8" (3.5 mm) connector into the headphone jack of your audio source.
2. If your audio source requires a 1/4" (6.3 mm) connection, attach the included adapter to the 1/8" (3.5 mm) connector before plugging it in.

4. Adjusting the Headphones for Comfort

The ATH-AD500X headphones feature a self-adjusting 3D Wing Support Housing for a comfortable fit. To adjust the headphones, simply place them over your ears and allow the 3D Wing Support Housing to automatically conform to the shape of your head.

5. Using the Headphones with Gaming Consoles

For use with gaming consoles such as the PlayStation 4, connect the headphones to the controller's headphone jack. Adjust the volume through the console's settings menu. Note that the ATH-AD500X headphones do not have a built-in microphone. If you require a microphone for gaming, consider attaching a separate mod-mic to the headphones.

6. Cleaning and Maintenance

To clean the headphones, gently wipe the earpads and outer casing with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using any solvents or cleaning agents, as they may damage the headphones. To maintain optimal sound quality, periodically check the headphone cable for any signs of wear or damage, and replace it if necessary.

7. Troubleshooting

No sound or low volume

Ensure that the headphones are properly connected to the audio source and that the volume is set to an appropriate level. If using the headphones with a gaming console, check the console's settings menu for volume adjustments.

Distorted sound

Check the audio source for any issues, such as a damaged audio file or poor-quality streaming. If the problem persists, try connecting the headphones to a different audio source to determine if the issue is with the headphones or the original audio source.

Uncomfortable fit

Allow the self-adjusting 3D Wing Support Housing to conform to the shape of your head. If discomfort persists, consider adjusting the position of the headphones on your head or taking breaks during extended listening sessions.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the ATH-AD500X and ATH-AD700X?

The main differences between the two models are the frequency response, impedance, and maximum input power. The ATH-AD700X has a frequency response of 5-30,000 Hz, an impedance of 38 ohms, and a maximum input power of 700 mW. The ATH-AD500X has a frequency response of 5-25,000 Hz, an impedance of 48 ohms, and a maximum input power of 500 mW.

Can I use these headphones for gaming?

Yes, the ATH-AD500X headphones can be used for gaming. Connect the headphones to your gaming console's controller and adjust the volume through the console's settings menu. Note that these headphones do not have a built-in microphone, so you may need to attach a separate mod-mic for voice communication during gaming.

Do I need an amplifier or DAC to use these headphones?

While the ATH-AD500X headphones can benefit from the use of an amplifier or DAC, they can also be used without one. The headphones can be connected directly to most audio sources, such as smartphones, computers, and gaming consoles, and will still provide excellent sound quality.

How do I clean and maintain the headphones?

To clean the headphones, gently wipe the earpads and outer casing with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using any solvents or cleaning agents, as they may damage the headphones. To maintain optimal sound quality, periodically check the headphone cable for any signs of wear or damage, and replace it if necessary.

Q: How does the sound quality on these compare to the ath-m40x? If you had to choose between the two for piano practice/orchestras, which would you pick?
A: As the m40x is closed, I would imagine your question is about recording and monitoring? A closed monitor headphone would suit that objective very well. If you meant you were planning on enjoying music in a quiet and comfort of a room somewhere the ad700x will definitely open your ears and blow your mind a bit if you've never had an experience with open headphones before. Closed for monitoring or noise area, open for quiet and most enjoyable sound. Closed may have better bass.

Q: Are they good for gaming?
A: I added an Antlion to mine and it works great for gaming. The positional audio is solid. If you want ground-rumbling bass, well, don't use a headset. My sounds card has a good EQ and the bass and overall sound is excellent.

Q: Does the cord have the option of detaching (unplugging) from the headset?
A: No.

Q: How do these compare to Sennheiser HD 598 headphones?
A: The sound quality is good for listening to music via computer or iPhone without an amp. In response to how they compare to the Sennheisers I would say both perform well while listening to music via computer or iPhone with or without an amp. Where they differ is comfort. I acquired a headache after wearing the AD 700xs for only 10 minutes. They apply pressure to the temple region of the skull and I did not enjoy that. The Sennheisers on the other hand are by far more comfortable. I now own the Sennheiser HD 598s and the Sennheiser PC 363Ds. I would recommend the Sennheisers over the AD700xs.

Q: How well does this work on a PS4 with a mic?
A: I use this setup on a daily basis with a "Zalman" mic. The setup works great, my only gripe would be both cables are very long so it can be an annoyance. I currently do not use an amp or DAC but I heard from a close friend using this with an Astro Mix-amp works very well. If I had to do it again, I would go with a MOD MIC 4.0 instead of the Zalman for the fact that you can clip it on the ear cup and flip it up when you're done. Hope this helps.

Q: What are the differences between the 500x and the 700x? And how are these with movies?
A: They are the best headphones I've ever owned. The only difference is what drivers are actually used, I've never owned the 700x but I'm sure they would more than likely be sufficient.

Q: Is this headset good for gaming and it doesn't come with a mic correct? And is it better with an amp? If so then what amp? (Mid to high range amp)
A: No mic, I wouldn't use this for gaming. Amp usage is pretty subjective for anything outside of high ohm cans (which these are not). I think these may be the wrong headphones for you based off of your questions. Worrying about amps with headphones under 300 bucks is generally a waste of your time and money, spend that money on better cans, better music first, amp later. Mics only come on gaming gear which is generally really punchy and far from what these are.

Q: I have huge ears (tall and wide). Would these fit well over them or should I go with hd 518s instead?
A: I have large ears, I will say that they are plenty big enough to fit you, unless you. I would recommend trying them on before you buy some because the wing headrest isn't good for people with small heads. If your head is large enough, then these are really comfortable...I have 518s as well, They feel deeper because their pads are thicker and a little harder. I also think the Sennheisers give you more height, but for width of ear, I think the ATH series is better.

Q: What are the specs on the 700Xs and the differences between the 700s and the 700Xs? Thanks!
A: These are an updated model. The outside material has been changed but the hardware remains the same. It still uses the same earphone driver but it is now angled. The angle produces more of a treble-heavy experience. The fit is different. The 700 is a bit heavier and fits more comfortably whereas the 700x slips and digs into your head constantly. You have to mod them to be comfortable. The old ones sound richer due to the different front-facing material but the newer ones produce higher range (artificially). Either way, these are great positional audio cans with a decent amp. I use Sound Blaster Z (has a standalone amp). Personally, I use MDR-V6 cans with custom fittings.

Q: What is the difference between the 500, 700, and 900 models?
A: If you are talking about the AD-X series, the higher you go in the series, the higher the frequency response. The coils are all the same diameter but produce different tonal balance. According to the manufacturer's website, the 500 has higher bass, the 700 has higher mids and highs, and the 900 has a precise balance among all. I have only used the 700X myself; the mids and highs are indeed clear and strong and the bass is low.