
Noise-cancelling headphones have one job to do: eliminate as much background noise as they can to give users the best audio experience possible. Audio-Technica’s Quietpoint ATH-ANC3 seems small for a noise-cancelling headphone, but will size have an effect on its overall performance? The SmartHouse team jacks in to find out.
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Besides the main in-ear headphones with control box, Audio-Technica has included a detachable .5 metre cable with gold-plated 3.5mm stereo mini plug and jack, a gold-plated airline adapter, replaceable rubber tips, one AAA battery, and a protective carrying case. The headphones come in either black or white, with a microphone in each earpiece for the noise-cancelling function.
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Performance:
Compared to over-the-ear cushioned headphones, the ANC3 sports a more discreet profile (in-ear) and is easier to take out/put back from/to its carrying case. The ANC3 has a small in-line control box that comes with an on/off switch and Monitor button that mutes all functions (including the noise-cancelling function) when the unit is turned on in order to listen to announcements or important conversations.
The noise-cancelling function works, and works well. It was able to eliminate annoying background noises during our long commute to and from our office, allowing us to enjoy our music in peace. The miniature microphones in each ear bud was able to produce a ‘close to identical out-of-phase signal that cancels an extremely high percentage of external noise across a very wide frequency range’ without any issues.
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The AAA battery lasted for about 50 hours, making it a great headphone to use for hours on end.
Conclusion:
Despite encountering some mobile phone interference during our tests, Audio-Technica’s Quietpoint ATH-ANC3 is still well-worth recommending for its noise-cancelling function, noteworthy audio output, and long battery life. It can give you that silent time anytime, allowing you to relax and unwind anywhere. The ATH-ANC3 is available now for an RRP of $249.
See page over for product specifications and final rating.
Audio-Technica Quietpoint ATH-ANC3 Specifications:
Type: Active noise-cancelling
Driver Diameter: 12.5 mm
Magnet: Neodymium
Frequency Response: 15 – 22,000 Hz
Sensitivity: 104 Db
Impedance: 90 ohms
Weight: 40 g (1.4 oz) with battery
Cable: 0.8 m + 0.2 m (3.3′ total) with 3.5 mm (1/8″) stereo mini-plug
Accessories Included: Extension cable 0.5 m (1.6′) with 3.5 mm (1/8″) stereo mini-plug; airline adapter; AAA battery; carrying case; ear pieces (rubber tips) (S/M/L size)
QuietPoint Active Noise Reduction: Up to 20 dB
Battery: AAA (alkaline)
Battery Life: Up to 50 hours, typical (alkaline)
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Audio-Technica QuietPoint ATH-ANC3 | $249 | | www.tag.com.au
For: Effective noise-cancelling; Great sound; Multitude of accessories; Battery-free operation; Long battery life; Attractive price
Against: White version gets dirty easily; Susceptible to mobile phone interference; Cord not too long
Conclusion: Have your own music bubble with this in-ear headphone from Audio-Technica.