Building on the success of the R70xa and R50x released earlier in 2025—both evolutions of the original 2015 ATH-R70x — Audio-Technica now expands its R-Series with the ATH-R30x, a new budget-friendly open-back headphone designed to deliver high-quality audio performance at just $99.
The ATH-R30x
The ATH-R30x is designed as an entry-level open-back headphone ideal for those starting out in home or professional studio environments. It delivers the core features essential for reference monitoring, maintaining a focus on accuracy and clarity. Like its R-Series predecessors, the ATH-R30x uses a wired-only connection and does not include active noise cancellation, keeping the emphasis on pure, uncolored sound reproduction.
Delivering professional-grade performance at a breakthrough price of just $99, the ATH-R30x headphones are tuned to deliver a natural, wide, and detailed soundstage. Plus they’re lightweight and comfortable, weighing only 210 grams. Meanwhile, an adjustable headband ensures a personalized fit, while the open-back earcups and replaceable velour earpads provide breathability and comfort.
The R30x feature 40mm drivers with minimal additional tuning or damping, resulting in a pure and natural listening experience. Engineered for clarity and balance, the drivers offer well-defined lows, transparent mids, and smooth, extended highs—revealing every detail in your mix.
The open-back design enhances this performance by allowing unrestricted driver movement, contributing to a spacious, airy soundstage with a clear, natural audio signature.
The ATH-R30x includes a fixed cable and comes with an attachable 6.3 mm (1/4″) adapter, making it easy to connect to a variety of professional and home studio gear.
Comparison
| ATH-R70x (2015) | ATH-R70xa (2025) | ATH-R50x (2025) | ATH-R30x (2025) | |
| Price | $349 | $349 | $159 | $99 |
| Type | Open-back reference | Open-back reference | Open-back reference | Open-back reference |
| Driver Diameter | 45 mm | 45 mm | 45 mm | 40 mm |
| Frequency Response | 5 – 40,000 Hz | 5 – 40,000 Hz | 5 – 40,000 Hz | 15 – 25,000 Hz |
| Maximum Input Power | 1,000 mW at 1 kHz | 1,000 mW | 1,600 mW | 1,000 mW |
| Sensitivity | 98 dB | 97 dB/mW | 93.3 dB/mW | 92 dB/mW |
| Impedance | 470 ohms | 470 ohms | 50 ohms | 36 ohms |
| Weight | 210 g (7.4 oz), without cable and connector | 199 g (7.0 oz), without cable | 207 g (7.3 oz), without cable | 210 g (7.4 oz), without cable |
| Connector | 3.5 mm (1/8”) stereo headphone jack | 3.5 mm (1/8”) stereo headphone jack | 3.5 mm (1/8”) stereo headphone jack | 3.5 mm (1/8″) gold-plated stereo mini-plug |
| Accessories Included | Detachable cable (3.0 m (9.8’) / 3.5 mm (1/8”) gold-plated stereo mini-plug), 6.3 mm (1/4”) stereo adapter Protective carrying pouch | Detachable cable (3.0 m (9.8’) / 3.5 mm (1/8”) gold-plated stereo mini-plug), 6.3 mm (1/4”) stereo adapter Protective carrying pouch | Detachable cable (1.2 m (3.9’) / 3.5 mm (1/8”) gold-plated stereo mini-plug), 6.3 mm (1/4”) stereo adapter Detachable cable (3.0 m (9.8’) / 3.5 mm (1/8”) gold-plated stereo mini-plug) Protective carrying pouch | 6.3 mm (1/4″) stereo adapter |
| Replacements/separately sold items | Not Indicated | Earpads Head pad Detachable cable, 6.3 mm (1/4”) stereo adapter Pouch | Earpads, Headpad, Detachable cable, 6.3 mm (1/4”) stereo adapter, Pouch | Earpads, headpad, 6.3 mm (1/4″) stereo adapter |
The Bottom Line
Audio-Technica’s R-series has long delivered studio-quality headphones at accessible prices, and the ATH-R30x lowers the barrier even further with an impressive $99 entry point.
Compared to other R-series models, the R30x hold up surprisingly well. Although it features slightly smaller 40mm drivers, it sacrifices little in sound quality. Plus its 36 ohm impedance makes it easy to drive.
By forgoing a travel case and detachable cord, Audio-Technica has further driven down the price. While it may not check every box for seasoned studio professionals, the ATH-R30x is an excellent option for home recording enthusiasts, casual creators, and everyday music lovers seeking open-back performance on a budget.
Price & Availability
- ATH-R70xa – $349 at Amazon
- ATH-R50x – $159 at Amazon
- ATH-R30x – $99 at Amazon
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