The affordable S-series Bluetooth wireless headphones from Audio-Technica has a new model. The ATH-S300BT is essentially a new “Street” S300 sub-series, which is a next-level tier from the S200 series, the last model being the ATH-S220BT which I reviewed in 2021. The S220BT is currently retailing at S$89 while the new S300BT is launched with a price of S$149.
Between the two models, the S300BT provides the following upgrades:
- Supports hybrid digital Noise Cancelling and Hear-Through through two microphones to perform active noise removal (S220BT does not have ANC and Hear-Through)
- 90 hours of battery life (ANC off), 60 hours with ANC On (vs. 60 hours on S220BT)
- Larger earpads to cover over ears (S220BT is on-ear design)
- 258 grams vs. 180 g
Both S220BT and S300BT support the following features:
- Multipoint pairing with two devices simultaneously
- Low Latency Mode
- Able to make calls with 3.5mm cable without power
Overall, the S300BT looks more premium with thicker headbands and larger earcups. The logo and brand imprint is hard to notice, which would favour owners who prefer not to be flashy. Most of the parts are in plastic except for the headband which has internal metal frame. The button controls are clear and easy to press – the left earcup contain the multi-function button and volume controls, while the right earcup has one button for ANC mode toggle.
The audio quality is tuned similarly to the S220BT. The bass is generous and fulfilling, the midrange is forward, while the treble is conservative without the extended highs or sparkles. The tuning favours listeners who prefer a more heavy sound with strong vocal warmth and less bright and transparent at the high frequencies. There is more emphasis and at the vocal frequencies, the lows offer the fullness, while the strings and hi-hats are layered beneath. Sound stage is close and wide.
The noise-cancelling is effective in removing the ambient rumbles to calm the ears, but have to reply on passive isolation to suppress the troubling upper frequencies. They are fine for reducing general ambient traffic and engine noises, but nowhere near the ANC leaders. I find the in-ear buds have better result in passive noise cancellation. The hear-through offers natural open sound without excessive amplification, transforming the headphones into a pseudo open-back feel. This I like. There is no smartphone app to make adjustments to all these modes.
For the same price, the Creative Zen Hybrid SXFI offers more features like Super X-Fi holographic mode, smartphone app support, and the headphones can be folded into a more compact size. I prefer the Audio-Technica’s comfort and the midrange is more expressive.
Verdict
The Audio-Technica ATH-S300BT offers a decent overall package with pleasant audio quality and ANC to manage ambient noises. Bargain hunters could get better deals from other brands but without a doubt, this headphones is priced attractively and backed by a trusted global brand of over 60 years. Retails at S$149, check out the product details at the official Audio-Technica website.
