[Apos Audio]

Hi all,

We at Apos are thrilled to introduce the Apos x Audio-Technica ATH-R70x Refine Open-Back Headphones—a limited edition of only 1000 units. This Apos exclusive version is a refined version of the original ATH-R70x that "redefined the price bracket" featuring enhanced comfort, design, performance, and price.

Product highlights 

• New look: The ATH-R70x Refine comes in an all-new black and gold color configuration.
• Pillow-soft pads: We've added thicker pads that feel cushy even through marathon listening sessions.
• Sound refinements: We gave the Refine a slightly warmer, deeper, and fuller sound, adding a layer of naturalism without sacrificing its famously detailed resolution or massive sound stage.
• Fewer tangles, more tunes: We shortened the cable down to a manageable 6 feet (1.8m).
• Better value: We negotiated a price with Audio-Technica that’s easier on the wallet.
• Future-minded: The R70x is the first step in an ecosystem of related products, including microphones and more. Stay tuned for what’s next.

You can sign up for updates here:
https://apos.audio/products/apos-x-audio-technica-ath-r70x-refine-headphone

Sign up form for the audition of the R70x Refine before it hits the market: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdGcxPI0dh6u830elBkQdET83up-mhxvsZH7jk3iwtGJD4CUQ/viewform

 

[earmonger]

Extremely interested in this, obviously.

 

[TheProfosist]

R70x's have been my main open back since 2016, I need myself a pair!

 

[Zerousen]

Will it be possible to purchase additional replacement stock pads for this version?

 

[Apos Audio]

Will it be possible to purchase additional replacement stock pads for this version?

We can look into it as an option in the future. For now, these pads are only limited with the headphone. We are going to take the feedback and discuss with Audio-Technica.

 

[cactus_farmer]

Is it purely the different pads that result in the different sound signature - or did Apos change the actual driver or voice coil of the headphones as well? (The identical impedance rating suggests not...)

 

[Apos Audio]

Is it purely the different pads that result in the different sound signature - or did Apos change the actual driver or voice coil of the headphones as well? (The identical impedance rating suggests not...)

There has been no change in the driver. Pads have been changed to address a common community feedback of comfort and size, while trying to hit a sound signature that was intended.

 

[earmonger]

As long as the factory is geared up, how about selling the Refine pads separately? Current ATH-R70X pads from parts@atus.com are $18 each ($36 pair) + 11.50 FedEx shipping. A similar price would be a big saving over the ZMF pads and presumably closer to Audio-Technica's intended tuning.

 

[Apos Audio]

As long as the factory is geared up, how about selling the Refine pads separately? Current ATH-R70X pads from parts@atus.com are $18 each ($36 pair) + 11.50 FedEx shipping. A similar price would be a big saving over the ZMF pads and presumably closer to Audio-Technica's intended tuning.

We are going to take this feedback to Audio-Technica in our meetings with them and see what we can do. We're noting down all community feedback. Thanks.

 

[zilax002]

Seconding the desire to buy OEM replacement pads for the Refine!

 

[Deckard916]

Ordered! Now just have to wait until December......

 

[dunring]

Yay I just got a notification with UPS tracking number for them. I'll pull out either the Topping A70Pro or SMSL H400 to test them with. Just going to spend the first day with no equalizing or reading any other reviews (if there's any from a trade show, will be one of the first to get one I think). If you signed up and in the first shipment, looks like they going out since I don't have any other orders with Apos except this one at the moment. I have a big inventory of amplifiers right now, so I'll run them on several like the A30Pro for single ended power, mainly to see if they're as demanding in the bass region as the original ones (over 1,000 ohms measured at ASR).
Aurourus is sending their Australis this week (going to compare that to the Dan Clark Aeon Closed I've got). I just got the Ananda Stealth V3, and the Aune AR5000 came in today to compare Australis. For price range, I have the new version 50ohm HE6SE which would be more of a fair comparison. It's going to be a busy week, but I'll post a next day review.

They seem to be ahead of the schedule estimates:
Batch 1: 250 units, Expected Ship Date from Apos Warehouse - October 2024
Batch 2: 250 units, Expected Ship Date from Apos Warehouse - December 2024
Batch 3: 250 units, Expected Ship Date from Apos Warehouse - March 2025
Batch 4: 250 units, Expected Ship Date from Apos Warehouse - May 2025

I sent an email to ask and they told me it was the first batch. If you pre-ordered you can check which shipment you'll get.

 

[zilax002]

My order is also preparing to ship! (First batch, of course.)