Audio-Technica Unveils a Game-Changer in Open-Ear Audio with the ATH-CC500BT2
Audio-Technica continues to push the boundaries of headphone innovation with its latest release, the ATH-CC500BT2. These newly announced cartilage conduction headphones offer a fresh alternative to bone conduction models, providing superior comfort, improved stereo sound, and extended battery life.
Driven by the research of Professor Hiroshi Hosoi, President of Nara Medical University in Japan, these headphones utilize cartilage conduction technology to transmit sound through the cartilage surrounding the ears rather than through the skull. This design reduces pressure on the head, leading to a significantly more comfortable listening experience, particularly for extended use.
A New Approach to Open-Ear Listening
Cartilage conduction technology addresses many of the limitations found in traditional bone conduction headphones. One of its most notable benefits is improved sound separation. Bone conduction often merges left and right stereo channels as the vibrations transmit through the skull, whereas cartilage conduction preserves stereo quality for a more immersive audio experience.
Battery life is another key advantage. The ATH-CC500BT2 offers up to 20 hours of playback time—double that of the competing Shokz OpenRun Pro. Additionally, a 10-minute charge provides up to two hours of listening, making it a practical choice for users who need quick and reliable power.
Packed with Features for Everyday Use
Audio-Technica has designed the ATH-CC500BT2 with both functionality and convenience in mind. With an IPX4 water resistance rating, these headphones can withstand sweat and light rain, making them ideal for workouts and outdoor activities. Multipoint Bluetooth connectivity allows users to switch seamlessly between two devices, catering to professionals who need to manage both work and personal calls effortlessly.
To enhance communication, the headphones feature AI-powered noise reduction for clearer voice calls, even in windy or noisy environments. The inclusion of USB-C charging eliminates the need for proprietary cables, ensuring easy and fast charging. Additionally, compatibility with voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant provides hands-free operation.
How It Compares to the Competition
In direct comparison, the ATH-CC500BT2 outshines the Shokz OpenRun Pro in several ways. Most notably, its battery life doubles that of the Shokz model, offering 20 hours versus 10. While Shokz has a slight weight advantage (29 grams versus 32 grams), Audio-Technica compensates with its superior audio clarity and stereo separation. The adoption of cartilage conduction provides a more natural listening experience without compromising situational awareness.
Professor Hiroshi Hosoi, a key figure in cartilage conduction research since 2004, has highlighted its potential to enhance open-ear audio, making it an exciting development in the field of personal audio technology.
Pricing and Availability
The ATH-CC500BT2 is currently available in the UK for £119.00 and in Europe for €139. While an estimated price of $145 to $150 has been mentioned for the US market, official confirmation of a North American release is still pending.
A Step Forward in Personal Audio
Audio-Technica’s ATH-CC500BT2 presents a compelling advancement in the realm of open-ear headphones. By replacing bone conduction with cartilage conduction, the company has successfully combined comfort, clarity, and convenience into one device. Whether for athletes, commuters, or casual listeners, this innovation offers a promising future for open-ear audio technology.
As the industry continues to evolve, Audio-Technica is setting new standards, proving that great audio isn’t just about sound quality—it’s also about enhancing the overall user experience. With the ATH-CC500BT2 leading the way, cartilage conduction could very well be the next big leap in headphone technology.
