Audio-Technica Launches ATH-AL5NC Wireless Open-Back Headphones
Audio-Technica has launched the ATH-AL5NC, its first wireless open-back headphones. They combine an open-back design with Bluetooth connectivity and are aimed at music listening, working from home and gaming.
The headphones use specially designed 53mm dynamic drivers and weigh 240g. Their open housings allow air to flow through the earcups, which Audio-Technica says helps reduce heat during longer listening sessions.
Quick Reference
- What is it? Wireless open-back headphones
- Who is it for? Music listeners, home workers and gamers
- Drivers: 53mm dynamic
- Wireless: Bluetooth with LDAC, AAC and SBC
- Battery life: Up to 75 hours
- Weight: 240g
- Price: £219 / €249 / $279 US / $499 AUS
- Availability: From 9 September 2026
What are open-back headphones?
Unlike conventional closed-back headphones, the ATH-AL5NC has openings in the earcups that allow air and sound to pass through. This type of headphone is designed to produce a more natural and spacious presentation, but it can also allow more of your music to be heard by people around you.
Audio-Technica has included a Sound Leakage Reduction mode in the A-T Connect app to help reduce this. The company points out that it cannot completely prevent sound escaping from an open-back headphone, particularly at higher volumes, and using the mode changes the sound of the headphones.
How long does the battery last?
The ATH-AL5NC offers up to 75 hours of continuous playback. A 15-minute charge can provide up to eight hours of listening.
With the noise-reduction function switched on, battery life is up to 50 hours, with a 15-minute charge providing up to five hours.
The headphones can also be used wired. Audio-Technica supplies a 1.2m cable with a 3.5mm stereo plug, in-line microphone and controls.
What else do you get?
The ATH-AL5NC supports LDAC, AAC and SBC, with support for audio up to 24-bit/96kHz using LDAC. Multipoint pairing allows the headphones to remain connected to two Bluetooth devices at the same time.
Audio-Technica’s A-T Connect app provides EQ adjustment, a low-latency mode for gaming and watching video, and a soundscape function offering nature sounds and other ambient audio. The headphones also have an integrated microphone for calls and online meetings.
The Audio-Technica ATH-AL5NC will be available from 9 September 2026, priced at £219 / €249 / $279 US / $499 AUS.
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