Description
AT says:
In celebration of the Audio-Technica 60th anniversary, we introduce the ATH-W2022 – new signature wooden headphones that honor our enduring commitment to analog audio and its power to touch our innermost selves.
Sourced and assembled entirely in Japan, the ATH-W2022 blends technological innovation with traditional artistry to fashion a timeless audio component of refined elegance. The housings are expertly crafted from Mizume (Japanese birch) and finished with traditional urushi lacquer – just like our first wooden headphones, the ATH-W10VTG – to deliver pure tone quality with natural reverberation. Sakura (cherry blossom) and hou-ou phoenix designs are hand-painted on the left and right houses, respectively, using the Japanese maki-e lacquer technique, with the right housing also incorporating mother-of-pearl. The housings are suspended from arms shaped to recall the winged slope of irimoya roofs that cap many Japanese temples. Deerskin is used for the earpads and headband to provide long-lasting durability and comfort.
Within the exquisite housings are baffle-integrated 58 mm drivers that were specially developed and optimized for these closed-back headphones. Adopting the innovative Core Mount Technology from our ATH-ADX5000 open-air dynamic headphones, the driver units are positioned for optimal airflow and full-range audio reproduction. We have designed a new magnet circuit that incorporates a pole and yoke structured from laminated pure iron plates to reduce back electromotive force (back EFM). The diaphragm is comprised of a pure titanium center dome, pressed to a thickness of 30 microns (0.03 mm). This construction places an emphasis on mid-high range audio reproduction with excellent high-frequency response, as well.
The ATH-W2022 comes with two detachable, cloth-wrapped cables made from high-purity 7N-class D.U.C.C. (Dia Ultra Crystallized Copper). Both of these 3.0 m (9.8′) cables have A2DC (Audio Designed Detachable Coaxial) connectors to attach securely to the headphones; one is terminated with a standard 6.3 mm (1/4″) gold-plated stereo plug, the other features a 4-pin XLRM balanced connector for use with the latest high-fidelity equipment to achieve better channel separation. Also included is a 60th anniversary commemorative wood storage case with a Kiso cypress lid that’s cut to complement the irimoya styling of the headphone arms.
Traditionally Unique
Sakura (cherry blossom) and hou-ou phoenix designs are hand-painted on the left and right houses, respectively, using the Japanese maki-e lacquer technique, with the right housing also incorporating mother-of-pearl.
The Art of Analog
“It is an honor to provide a quality audio experience to millions of people throughout the world. What begins as a simple vibration – a subtle movement – results in an emotional connection, whether that be when listening deeply to an album or sharing your voice with the world.”
– Kazuo Matsushita
President of Audio-Technica Corporation
New Tech, Timeless Design
Within the exquisite housings are baffle-integrated 58 mm drivers that were specially developed and optimized for these closed-back headphones. We have designed a new magnet circuit that incorporates a pole and yoke structured from laminated pure iron plates to reduce back electromotive force (back EFM).
