Audio-Technica: ATH-ESW9 Headphones

Owned for 2 months

Price: $239

Rating (1-5):  5 – Exceptional Buy

Pros:

• Very smooth sound signature, lush mid range, nice bass
• Smaller size and cord make them easier at the desk
• Somewhat portable (see qualifier below)
• Look great!

Cons:

• Hinges widely reported to be fragile
• Not uncomfortable, but also not most comfortable
• Closed headphone not as “airy” up top

Decision Criteria:

1. Sound signature for everyday listening
2. More convenient than other pair of larger headphones with thick cord

Did It Deliver?

Absolutely delivered

Summary:

The ESW9 is a “closed” headphone with cups made from a Japanese Cherry tree.  They look great and the wood enclosure is reported to be a big factor in the smooth sound.  These are called portable headphones, but they require a decent case (not included) and there have been some reports of hinges breaking.  As such, I consider them more portable than big home headphones, but they are not earbuds either.  They are also pretty expensive, so I would handle them carefully.

I bought this a month after I bought my Grado SR225i.  I was looking for a complement to the Grado sound signature and also hoped for some portability as well.  While I love the Grado sound, I found it was not for me every day.  On the first point, The ESW9s have definitely delivered.  They have a very pleasing sound and are easy to listen to for long periods of time.  All of the things you might have read about the lush midrange and decent bass are true.  They lack a little at the high end, but overall the sounds signature is really very good.  They are a great compliment to the Grados with a very different sound.

On the second point, I was impressed by some factors I did not expect.  I have found that I reach for the ESW9s more often than the Grados mainly because they are just smaller and easier.  The cord is light and does not get in the way while working on the computer.  They are easy to take on and off.  They leak some sound in but almost nothing out.  No complaints yet from my wife about the leaked sound being irritating.  I plan on buying a case for these to take them on the road.  I do have some concerns about durability, but have not experienced this myself yet.

These are a great headphone, and might have been a better first purchase than the Grado.  You will notice that many of the really serious headphone people on Head-Fi list these as their portable phones.  I can see why after living with them for a month.

I recommend these highly to anyoone looking for some portability, potentially a first headphone purchase, and use without a headphone amp.  The sound signature seems to be pleasing to just about anyone who listens to them and aside from the hinges, the build quality is first rate.  The Japanese Cherry wood is just beautiful.  These can be plugged directly into you iPod or iPhone without the need of an adapter.

PS. These list for $450, but you should not pay over $250.