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Audio-Technica unveils ATH-AC5TW wireless open-ear earphones

Audio-Technica ATH-AC5TW earphones feature an ear hook design that enables users to hear external sounds at all times. (Image source: Audio-Technica)
Audio-Technica ATH-AC5TW earphones feature an ear hook design that enables users to hear external sounds at all times. (Image source: Audio-Technica)
Audio-Technica Japan introduces the ATH-AC5TW wireless open-ear earphones with an ear hook design that supposedly can ensure all-day comfort while allowing users to remain aware of their surroundings.

Audio-Technica Japan has unveiled ATH-AC5TW wireless open-ear earphones. The open design allows wearers to hear all important sounds around them, such as emergency ambulances and crying babies.

Typical in-ear earbuds use silicone tips that squeeze into the ear canal, causing discomfort while blocking external sounds. This can be troublesome for wearers who need to be alert to their surroundings at all times.

The ear hook design places the speaker near the ear canal without blocking the ear. To compensate for the distance, a large 17 x 12 mm (0.67 x 0.47 in.) driver is used for strong bass reproduction. In-ear earbuds typically use smaller drivers from 6 mm to 12 mm (0.24 to 0.47 in.) in diameter. Each ear piece weighs just 10.5 grams (0.37 oz.).

The ATH-AC5TW supports the common SBC and AAC audio codecs over Bluetooth 5.4 connections. Each earpiece has two MEMS microphones that use beamforming technology to reduce background noise during calls.

The earphones have a 13-hour battery runtime, allowing for continuous use during long workdays, and a 34-hour total runtime when combined with the charging case. The earphones or case recharges in two hours. The earphones automatically turn on when removed from the case, and either earpiece can be worn and used alone.

The Audio-Technica ATH-AC5TW wireless open-ear earphones will be released on March 14 in black and rich white with an MSRP of 14,960 yen (~$100) in Japan. It will also be available for purchase from the Audio-Technica US store on Amazon.

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General Products 2025.03.06

Wireless open-ear earphones for those who want to stick to the sound even while listening will be released on March 14th


Audio-Technica Co., Ltd. has launched a wireless open-ear earphone that allows you to "listen" to good sound without blocking your ears.ATH-AC5TW will be released on Friday, March 14th.


Wireless Open-Ear Earphones "ATH-AC5TW" Black

 (BK), Rich White (WH) from left to right


In recent years, with the increase in remote work and online meetings, there are more opportunities to use earphones at home or in the office, and the time they are used is also increasing. As a result, earphones that can be used while checking the surroundings and do not block the ears are attracting attention because they do not block the ears and can be used comfortably with little pressure on the ears. In response to these market needs, we sell the "ATH-CC500BT2" cartilage conduction headphones, and as a new approach to earphones that do not block the ears, we will release a wireless open-ear model that uses an air conduction method.


By using this product, you can play the sound you want to hear with earphones and do what you want to do at the same time. For example, you can listen to an audiobook while taking a walk or listen to a song by your favorite artist while doing chores. In addition, when you are working in the office or at home while wearing earphones, you can immediately notice and respond to calls out, so you can communicate smoothly with the people around you. You can use it with peace of mind because you can notice approaching cars and bicycles even when you are out and about.


『ATH-AC5TW』


As an audio equipment manufacturer, we have developed and designed it so that you can enjoy the content with good sound even while listening. In order to enhance bass reproduction, which tends to be lacking due to the structure of open-ear earphones that do not block the ears, a large 17×12mm driver is adopted. In addition, it is equipped with "Dual Bass Enhancement Technology" that combines a bass reinforcement algorithm with digital processing and a dynamic EQ algorithm that maintains the volume of bass even at low volumes. In addition, by applying a unique sound tuning, you can enjoy a balanced and voluminous sound.


On the call front, beamforming microphone technology* that uses two microphones delivers a clear voice to the other party even in noisy environments. In addition, you can play for 13 hours continuously with just the earphones, or up to 34 hours if you combine the earphones with the charging case. You can use it comfortably for a long time with a light fit just by putting it on your ears. 

* Directionality is provided toward the speaker's mouth, and the accuracy of the call quality is improved by accurately capturing the voice. 


Image of using the ATH-AC5TW


The basic operation is only play/stop and call answering when receiving an incoming call. By focusing on the minimum functions, you can easily use it without hesitation. In addition, it has a multi-point function that connects two devices at the same time and splash-proof performance equivalent to IPX4, making it a perfect model for everyday use.


【ATH-AC5TW Product Overview】


A sense of liberation that does not block your ears, and a feeling of elation to enjoy what you like. "Listening while listening" earphones for those who want to be particular about sound


Scheduled to be released on March 14

Wireless Open Ear Earphones

 ATH-AC5TW Open Price 


Click here for product details


< features<b31>> ■ Sound transmission by air conduction that does not block the ears ■ Large 17×12mm oval driver that makes the most of the limited acoustic space 


■ Reinforces the bass range and reproduces

 a sense of volume ■ Beamforming microphone technology that allows the voice to be heard clearly even in noisy conditions ■ Up to 13 hours of continuous playback* with just earphones *


 When playing music. Varies depending on usage conditions ■ Easy and simple operation possible

 ■ Light and comfortable to wear, ear hook style

 ■ Multi-point compatible 

 with simultaneous connection to two Bluetooth devices

■ Two color variations that can be used for both private and work 

■ Power ON 

just by taking it out of the case ■ Can be used with only one ear 

■ Cable with overheating prevention function for safety 

■ Bluetooth standard Ver.5.4 compliant

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2025 03 > Audio-Technica unveils ATH-AC5TW wireless open-ear earphones
David Chien, 2025-03- 6 (Update: 2025-03- 7)