Audio-Technica ATH-WP900

[Malevolent]

Excellent overview, as ever.

I would say the WP900 is actually is slightly brighter than the T5P 2nd gen. I always found the T5P quite smooth in the top end.

Thanks!

Well, the WP900 does have some bright and prominent treble. Nevertheless, I felt that the highs on the T5p (2nd Gen) were a little brighter, but very well-controlled. Could be the pads?; I have changed the ones on my T5p, so this may have an effect on the treble presentation.

 

[Malevolent]

Can anyone compare these WP900s to the 99 classics?

The 99 Classics are darker, with muted treble, relative to the WP900. The Audio-Technica has brilliant highs, replete with sparkle and detail. The Meze has a heavier mid-bass section; they can sound rather boomy, at the worst of times. Unfortunately, the lows have a tendency to bleed into the lower mids. With that said, I found vocals on the Meze to be lush and full. Overall, the WP900 sounds cleaner from top to bottom, and resolves detail better than on the 99 Classics.

Both are unabashedly fun headphones, but the WP900 is the clear winner here, IMO.

 

[Nostoi]

Very helpful. I'm a fan of the Msr7b, though I would prefer a little more low end, with a little better quality. I also had to slightly tone down the upper mids - 2&4 K. I'll take a bit more fun and musical over neutral / analytical, and super resolving. That being said, I don't want it to be on the complete opposite of neutral, just a little bit with some added warmth. The T5p 2nd seems like a strong fit. I really only listen to glam metal, Sleez rock... 80s big hair stuff, etc. I also listen to more mellow rock from the 70s and 80s. My 4 currently owned favorites are the 58X, Msr7b, H6, and 99 Classics - in no particular order. I'm after the next step down the rabbit hole. Which of these 3 headphones would you choose 1st for my genres?

I share your taste in music - Ratt, Winger, Dokken, White Lion, Vain these are my jams. I even like some of the super cheesy early 90s hair metal like Firehouse, Slaughter, and Danger Danger. Both the T5P and the WP900 are excellent for this type of music. The WP900 is more energetic, the T5P more refined, as @Malevolent says. Some of my test tracks for timbre and mid-range are Dokken's "Back For The Attack" or Ratt's "Invasion Of Your Privacy." These albums are especially good for guitar tone and both headphones deliver Lynch and Martini's growl with conviction. When I first got the T5P, I was listening to Warrior's underrated album "Fighting For The Earth" - the instrument separation and timbre was outstanding. Every detail was articulated with superb precision. Nevertheless, the WP900 are more of a "rock out" type of headphone. The separation isn't as nuanced, but the energy and dare I say "emotion" is more forward. I'd also say the WP900 low end thumps a little harder for this type of music. A track like Winger's "Easy Come, Easy Go" packs a real punch on the WP900. You can't go wrong with either headphone!

 

[Nostoi]

Thanks!

Well, the WP900 does have some bright and prominent treble. Nevertheless, I felt that the highs on the T5p (2nd Gen) were a little brighter, but very well-controlled. Could be the pads?; I have changed the ones on my T5p, so this may have an effect on the treble presentation.

Yes, they're very pad sensitive, indeed. I changed mine between stock and Dekoni sheepskin. The stock sounds better to me, but they're ever so slightly small (though they do enlarge with use, I found).

 

[Mhog55]

I share your taste in music - Ratt, Winger, Dokken, White Lion, Vain these are my jams. I even like some of the super cheesy early 90s hair metal like Firehouse, Slaughter, and Danger Danger. Both the T5P and the WP900 are excellent for this type of music. The WP900 is more energetic, the T5P more refined, as @Malevolent says. Some of my test tracks for timbre and mid-range are Dokken's "Back For The Attack" or Ratt's "Invasion Of Your Privacy." These albums are especially good for guitar tone and both headphones deliver Lynch and Martini's growl with conviction. When I first got the T5P, I was listening to Warrior's underrated album "Fighting For The Earth" - the instrument separation and timbre was outstanding. Every detail was articulated with superb precision. Nevertheless, the WP900 are more of a "rock out" type of headphone. The separation isn't as nuanced, but the energy and dare I say "emotion" is more forward. I'd also say the WP900 low end thumps a little harder for this type of music. A track like Winger's "Easy Come, Easy Go" packs a real punch on the WP900. You can't go wrong with either headphone!

Did we just become best friends! Lol. I think the only feasible solution is to buy both ? Which of the two handle poor recordings better? I can convert some files into a little better shape, but some their is just no hope for, like Icons debut self titled album. Some others include Badlands, Crazy Lixx, Heavens Edge, Kix, and Savatage. I'm sure you can relate. I'm also curious what you think about the Aeon Flow 2 closed. Should I just rule this one out? I'm tempted to buy it just for that clever collapsible head band haha. George Lynch is awesome by the way. Heaven Sent is such a great song. On a side note, how are the stock cables that come with the wp900? I hate the cables that come with the MSR7b. They remind me a box fan cord. I also listen to a lot of classic rock. The Cars, Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, etc. Throwing that into the mix, would you choose one of these cans over the other? And while I have you here, what other headphones do you like or own? I always like to ask people who share the same genre interests. Any open backs? I appreciate you helping me out

 

[Nostoi]

Did we just become best friends! Lol. I think the only feasible solution is to buy both ? Which of the two handle poor recordings better? I can convert some files into a little better shape, but some their is just no hope for, like Icons debut self titled album. Some others include Badlands, Crazy Lixx, Heavens Edge, Kix, and Savatage. I'm sure you can relate. I'm also curious what you think about the Aeon Flow 2 closed. Should I just rule this one out? I'm tempted to buy it just for that clever collapsible head band haha. George Lynch is awesome by the way. Heaven Sent is such a great song. On a side note, how are the stock cables that come with the wp900? I hate the cables that come with the MSR7b. They remind me a box fan cord. I also listen to a lot of classic rock. The Cars, Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, etc. Throwing that into the mix, would you choose one of these cans over the other? And while I have you here, what other headphones do you like or own? I always like to ask people who share the same genre interests. Any open backs? I appreciate you helping me out

You're going deep with Heaven's Edge! The twilight of hair metal, right there. Ever get into Shark Island? And Criss Olivia and Jake E. Lee. Now we're talking. Tone masters.

I would say the WP900 is probably more forgiving. When you say poor recordings, what do you mean - the file itself or the original recording? If it's the former, I can help you out. Icon, that's a nice example. Their second album is such an upgrade in sound, with Eddie Kramer and Ron Nevison on board.

I didn't really like the Aeon Flow 2, to be honest. Not engaging enough. Good on a technical front, but just didn't really do it for me. I would say the WP900 wins points on portability because the cups fold, so they're easily transportable. I mean, they're the same size as your MSR7B, if that helps.

I changed the stock cable to the upgraded cable with the WP900, which is about $160 on Amazon US. The stock is ok, better than MSR7B but not great.

As to my other headphones, you can see my current mix in my signature, but I really like most Beyers - DT990 600ohm are my favourite open back, love the T1 2nd gen, DT1990 have a place in my heart and are definitely very good for this type of music.I just got the ATH-AP2000Ti, which are really impressing me for metal and rock, though quite a bit more expensive. In general, I like brightish headphones, with an extended sub-bass that is very controlled and a flat mid-range. Not super keen on mid-centric headphones. But I also don't like overly bassy headphones. Campfire Cascade was about my limit on that front.

What is your source for all this? I find the the WP900 benefit from a balanced connection, on the T5P it doesn't seem to matter.

Cheers!

 

[Mhog55]

Nostoi - Yep, I have Shark Island and Red Dragon Cartel. Over the last couple months, I've found a ton of new stuff - Really been digging deep. I've discovered Trans Am, Treat, Fierce Heart, Shotgun Messiah, Slave Raider (EXCELLENT), Every Mother's Nightmare, Hericane Alice, Rough Cutt, and a few others. Check out this website if you aren't familiar with it.
en.metal-tracker.com
Just browse or use the search function. Downloads available for everything. I finally found the entire discography for Dirty Looks!
I'm referring to the original recording. Any advice you have file types is definitely welcome. My friend and Co Worker just kinda dived into formatting head first. So we aren't as educated as most, but a lot of our files sound pretty incredible. He does most of the legwork, and uses Foobar I believe. I use EZ CD converter / ripper, but only for CDs.
I use my LG V40, and also used an Opus#1s for several years. I recently sold it, and replaced it with the Hiby R5. I prefer the Cirrus chips over the ESS chips in my V40. Not necessarily for everything, but for what we primarily listen to, most definitely. I don't own any home audio gear. I purchased the upgraded Audio Technica 2.5mm balanced cable some time ago. My R5 has the 4.4mm balanced connection, so I'm debating on upgrading all of my cables, or just sticking with an adapter. I just ordered the 4.4mm pure silver balanced cable from Meze Audio. It works with both my 99 Classics and B&O H6, which I had modified for balanced use. What's really nice is that this cable will also work with the T5p 2nd.
I am semi treble sensitive, and the Msr7b is about as much as I can handle. I had to lower the 2 and 4k a decibel or two, in order to use them for long periods of time. That being said, is it possible that the T5p 2nd could be a bit much for me? If I could find a headphone that combines the best traits of both the 99 Classics and Msr7b, I would be feeling pretty good. I would also like it to be a more grown up can in general. I appreciate some good air around the instruments, and excellent separation. A giant Soundstage isn't all that important to me, as I've found it isn't necessary and doesn't always jive with busy, heavy hard rock. I appreciate both attack and decay. Dynamic, energetic, and musical is what I'm after. A quick, snappy and punchy low end. No bloom, and slightly North of neutral. I don't necessarily need a mid forward presentation, but they can't be recessed. Guitars and male vocals need to be engaging and sound fantastic. The mid presentation is different on the 99 Classics and Msr7b. The 99s have more weight and crunch, while the Msr7b is a little leaner with more speed and sizzle. I'd be perfectly happy meeting right in the middle if that makes sense. I apologize for length of this post. I just want to get it right the first time. This is a lot of money for me to spend. I haven't exceeded 300 dollars on a pair of cans yet. Perhaps now that you have a better idea as to what I'm after, maybe you can help push me in the right direction. Eventually I'd like to own both. If you would rather discuss this over PM, just let me know. You've already helped me out quite a bit, and I definitely appreciate it. I'd also like to know how you obtain and convert your files. I'm sure you have more experience than I do, and any assistance would be awesome.

 

[Nostoi]

Nostoi - Yep, I have Shark Island and Red Dragon Cartel. Over the last couple months, I've found a ton of new stuff - Really been digging deep. I've discovered Trans Am, Treat, Fierce Heart, Shotgun Messiah, Slave Raider (EXCELLENT), Every Mother's Nightmare, Hericane Alice, Rough Cutt, and a few others. Check out this website if you aren't familiar with it.
en.metal-tracker.com
Just browse or use the search function. Downloads available for everything. I finally found the entire discography for Dirty Looks!
I'm referring to the original recording. Any advice you have file types is definitely welcome. My friend and Co Worker just kinda dived into formatting head first. So we aren't as educated as most, but a lot of our files sound pretty incredible. He does most of the legwork, and uses Foobar I believe. I use EZ CD converter / ripper, but only for CDs.
I use my LG V40, and also used an Opus#1s for several years. I recently sold it, and replaced it with the Hiby R5. I prefer the Cirrus chips over the ESS chips in my V40. Not necessarily for everything, but for what we primarily listen to, most definitely. I don't own any home audio gear. I purchased the upgraded Audio Technica 2.5mm balanced cable some time ago. My R5 has the 4.4mm balanced connection, so I'm debating on upgrading all of my cables, or just sticking with an adapter. I just ordered the 4.4mm pure silver balanced cable from Meze Audio. It works with both my 99 Classics and B&O H6, which I had modified for balanced use. What's really nice is that this cable will also work with the T5p 2nd.
I am semi treble sensitive, and the Msr7b is about as much as I can handle. I had to lower the 2 and 4k a decibel or two, in order to use them for long periods of time. That being said, is it possible that the T5p 2nd could be a bit much for me? If I could find a headphone that combines the best traits of both the 99 Classics and Msr7b, I would be feeling pretty good. I would also like it to be a more grown up can in general. I appreciate some good air around the instruments, and excellent separation. A giant Soundstage isn't all that important to me, as I've found it isn't necessary and doesn't always jive with busy, heavy hard rock. I appreciate both attack and decay. Dynamic, energetic, and musical is what I'm after. A quick, snappy and punchy low end. No bloom, and slightly North of neutral. I don't necessarily need a mid forward presentation, but they can't be recessed. Guitars and male vocals need to be engaging and sound fantastic. The mid presentation is different on the 99 Classics and Msr7b. The 99s have more weight and crunch, while the Msr7b is a little leaner with more speed and sizzle. I'd be perfectly happy meeting right in the middle if that makes sense. I apologize for length of this post. I just want to get it right the first time. This is a lot of money for me to spend. I haven't exceeded 300 dollars on a pair of cans yet. Perhaps now that you have a better idea as to what I'm after, maybe you can help push me in the right direction. Eventually I'd like to own both. If you would rather discuss this over PM, just let me know. You've already helped me out quite a bit, and I definitely appreciate it. I'd also like to know how you obtain and convert your files. I'm sure you have more experience than I do, and any assistance would be awesome.

Sorry for late reply, buddy. I don't know the newer bands you mention (though good to hear the names Shotgun Messiah and Dirty Looks again). The only newer metal I got into is Idle Hands. Know them? Sort of classic power metal with a Tears for Fears vibe. Sounds better than the description. They play their Savatage, Queensryche, hair metal influences well.

I'll drop you a PM about getting better files on these sorts of albums.

To my ears, the T5P is much smoother than the MSR7B, so you'd be dialling back on the top end there. Probably more suited than the WP900, which have a slightly recessed mid-range and slightly more edgy top end. The T5P has similar layering and imaging as the MSR7B, which is to say, excellent. So I think it would probably do everything you want. It can also be driven from a phone or a desktop in SE or balanced. I mean, if you can get it for around 300 USD, then yes, grab it!

You had the B&O H6 modded for balanced? That's nice. They've been my bedside cans since they first came out.

 

[bythebookiii]

Hi all, ive been in the middle of the "try and error" exercise between de msr7b and my recent acquisition the t5p 2nd, and let me tell you that ive been struggling prioritizing sound quality and comfort.

im really engaged with the sound signature of the msr7b, crisp and clear, with just enough bass, considering i love detail and the sparkling sound it brings for classical music, a lot of acoustic guitars and piano.

Right now, quality is winning and even though the t5p are a great pair of cans, their sound signature is just not for me. I crave por high end clarity but my ears hurt with more than an hour using the msr7b.

I have on deck the focal elegia and the wp900.. does anyone have the inner size of the earpads of the wp900? and how the comfort compares with the msr7b and focal elegia?

 

[Mhog55]

Hi all, ive been in the middle of the "try and error" exercise between de msr7b and my recent acquisition the t5p 2nd, and let me tell you that ive been struggling prioritizing sound quality and comfort.

im really engaged with the sound signature of the msr7b, crisp and clear, with just enough bass, considering i love detail and the sparkling sound it brings for classical music, a lot of acoustic guitars and piano.

Right now, quality is winning and even though the t5p are a great pair of cans, their sound signature is just not for me. I crave por high end clarity but my ears hurt with more than an hour using the msr7b.

I have on deck the focal elegia and the wp900.. does anyone have the inner size of the earpads of the wp900? and how the comfort compares with the msr7b and focal elegia?

So are you finding the T5p a little too flat and boring. Does it not have the same energy, dynamics, and overall musicality that the Msr7b? Can you provide a little more detail as to why the T5p sound signature isn't for you?

 

[bythebookiii]

So are you finding the T5p a little too flat and boring. Does it not have the same energy, dynamics, and overall musicality that the Msr7b? Can you provide a little more detail as to why the T5p sound signature isn't for you?

You got it right. Less energy, the bass is bloated and doesn't sound natural and tight as the msr7b. I rather have less bass but more precise than have a thumpy sound that sacrifices mids and highs.

However, this is subjective because some friends loved them and they are ready get a pair.

 

[Mhog55]

You got it right. Less energy, the bass is bloated and doesn't sound natural and tight as the msr7b. I rather have less bass but more precise than have a thumpy sound that sacrifices mids and highs.

However, this is subjective because some friends loved them and they are ready get a pair.

Thanks for the reply

 

[Malevolent]

Hi all, ive been in the middle of the "try and error" exercise between de msr7b and my recent acquisition the t5p 2nd, and let me tell you that ive been struggling prioritizing sound quality and comfort.

im really engaged with the sound signature of the msr7b, crisp and clear, with just enough bass, considering i love detail and the sparkling sound it brings for classical music, a lot of acoustic guitars and piano.

Right now, quality is winning and even though the t5p are a great pair of cans, their sound signature is just not for me. I crave por high end clarity but my ears hurt with more than an hour using the msr7b.

I have on deck the focal elegia and the wp900.. does anyone have the inner size of the earpads of the wp900? and how the comfort compares with the msr7b and focal elegia?

Yes, like @Mhog55 has previously mentioned in his post, are you able to provide more details and/or greater context to your post?

If the T5p (2nd Generation) doesn't satisfy you on the technical front, the WP900 and the Elegia probably won't either. Mind you, they aren't bad headphones per se; quite the opposite, actually. However, the T5p (2nd Gen) doesn't struggle in the quality-related aspects.

To compound matters, the Elegia has the least bass of the 3.

Are you deciding between the WP900 and the Elegia for your next headphone?

 

[Malevolent]

You got it right. Less energy, the bass is bloated and doesn't sound natural and tight as the msr7b. I rather have less bass but more precise than have a thumpy sound that sacrifices mids and highs.

However, this is subjective because some friends loved them and they are ready get a pair.

Ahh, sorry, I was in the midst of writing my previous post, before I was kept busy with a small errand.

Personally, I didn't find the bass to be bloated on the T5p (2nd Gen); sure, they are north of neutral, but I wouldn't characterize it as excessive.

Nevertheless, if you're on the hunt for a headphone with the characteristics that you've described, you might want to take a gander at the AWKT. You will hear an organic sound, with a flat, but well-textured bass response. Mids aren't recessed, and there is a nice emphasis on the upper mids and highs that provide it with a level of sparkle and energy. Detail is a forte of the AWKT, but it doesn't produce it in a manner that reduces the signature to one that is boring or sterile; quite the opposite, actually. There is an immense sense of coherence throughout. A very impressive headphone, IMO.

 

[bythebookiii]

Ahh, sorry, I was in the midst of writing my previous post, before I was kept busy with a small errand.

Personally, I didn't find the bass to be bloated on the T5p (2nd Gen); sure, they are north of neutral, but I wouldn't characterize it as excessive.

Nevertheless, if you're on the hunt for a headphone with the characteristics that you've described, you might want to take a gander at the AWKT. You will hear an organic sound, with a flat, but well-textured bass response. Mids aren't recessed, and there is a nice emphasis on the upper mids and highs that provide it with a level of sparkle and energy. Detail is a forte of the AWKT, but it doesn't produce it in a manner that reduces the signature to one that is boring or sterile; quite the opposite, actually. There is an immense sense of coherence throughout. A very impressive headphone, IMO.

Thanks @Malevolent for the recommendations. I read a lot about the AWKT im not sure $1899 would be a good decision for my budget. They look gorgeous, aspirationals and the sound signature seems pretty close with what im looking for.

I Just returned the T5P and pulled the trigger for the Elegias, specially becuase other reviews are enfatic on the clarity, mids, highs and just the enough amount of lows.

While im writing this my ears are hurt buy enjoying the sound of the msr7b with tidal an HIBY R6 Pro going balanced, however i wish the Elegias feel more softer and have the comfort my ears need.

Do you own the AWKT? Do you know the inner size of the earpads? just to consider in a future if i can make my budget to go that far, although the Focal Stellia would be really close to the $2.000 range.

BTW, I havent considered an open back because i need them for my noisy enviroment, so the HD800 are out of question and they also seem to have the sound signature i want.