Audio-Technica ATH-PRO700MK2 – Full-Sized Sound

Introduction and Physique

Going Back To Their Roots

Audio-Technica of Japan has been on a tear as of late, constantly pumping out new consumer-focused headphones such as the "street-style" ATH-XS7 and the ATH-XS5, which have steadily increased public awareness of the company and their prowess for making exceptionally great-sounding headphones.Now they return to their professional roots with the new ATH-PRO700MK2 professional DJ Monitor headphones, which replace the outgoing ATH-PRO700 and look set to go toe to toe with the Beats Pro from Monster and Beats by Dr. Dre.

Lighter, Sharper, and More Flexible

Looks-wise, the ATH-PRO700MK2 doesn't look very much out of the ordinary, as opposed to the more stylish Beats Pro, but still manages to project an image of heavy duty audio and professional sound quality, with its thick headband and large 53mm drivers. While it looks almost identical, it improves on its predecessor, the ATH-PRO700, in a number of key aspects. The drivers, for example keep their 53mm size, but Audio-Technica was able to coax out another 2,000Hz of treble, extending the MK2's upper frequency range to 35,000Hz.

Instead of a fixed audio cable, the ATH-PRO700MK2 comes with two detachable audio cables - one coiled and one straight, making it ideal for any situation, depending on your need.  Both cables measure 1.2m, but the coiled cable can stretch out to a maximum of 3m. Both of them latch onto the left side of the headphones through a properly secure screw thread, which feels a bit more sturdy than the twist-to-lock design on the Beats Pro. The ends of the cables that plug into your audio source have screw threads as well, to accommodate the included 1/4 audio jack adapter.   

The ATH-PRO700MK2 is also 15g lighter than the older model and noticeably lighter than the Beats Pro. Lightness seems to be one of Audio-Technica's new goals for their headphones, and they have achieved it by using more lightweight but strong plastic in the construction of their products. Admittedly, this makes the ATH-PRO700MK2  feel less premium, but after having them on your head for more than a couple hours, you'll see how much lightness improves overall comfort.