The Audio-Technica ATH-MSR7NC are well-built and sturdy headphones with a well-balanced sound profile. They're comfortable and don't leak a lot of noise at high volumes. However, they don't block a lot of noise despite being noise cancelling headphones, so they're not the best option for traveling or commuting. They're also a bit too bulky for sports, but they deliver a good audio reproduction for audiophiles.
Our Verdict
The Audio-Technica MSR7NC are decent mixed usage headphones. They aren't ideal for commuting despite being noise cancelling headphones, and they may be a bit too bulky for sports. On the upside, they have a neutral sound, a great build quality, and a polished design.
- Good audio reproduction.
- Low leakage.
- Sturdy and comfortable.
- Poor noise isolation especially for noise canceling headphones.
- Slightly bulky design.
- Bass delivery varies significantly across users. Sensitive to glasses.
The Audio-Technica MSR7NC are good for neutral sound. They're comfortable enough to wear for hours and have a well-balanced sound profile. Their bass extends into the lower frequencies, which gives a good kick without being overpowering, so you can still clearly distinguish instruments and vocals. However, there's a slight bump in the high-mid/low-treble that may push instruments a bit too forward on some tracks, which could sound a bit harsh.
The Audio-Technica MSR7NC are mediocre for commuting. They have a comfortable fit but a mediocre control scheme and a subpar noise cancellation performance. They may be able to mask some noise if you're playing your audio at high volumes, but they won't be the ideal headphones for loud environments.
The Audio-Technica MSR7NC are mediocre for sports. They have an easy to use but limited control scheme. Unfortunately, they're a bit too bulky and cumbersome for working out. They also aren't very breathable, so you may sweat more than usual while wearing them.
The Audio-Technica MSR7NC are average for office use. They don't leak much noise, so they won't distract your colleagues at higher volumes like some of the other over-ear headphones we've reviewed. However, they don't block a lot of background noise, so they may not be the best headphones to use in a lively and noisy office environment.
Changelog
- Updated Nov 21, 2019: Converted to Test Bench 1.3.1.
- Updated Nov 21, 2019: Converted to Test Bench 1.3.
- Updated Feb 16, 2018: Converted to Test Bench 1.2.
- Updated Sep 28, 2017: The microphone has been tested with our new methodology, as explained here
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