Audio-Technica ATH-W5000

Isolation (1.86)

The ATH-W5000s weren’t the best isolators we’ve seen. This probably won’t be the biggest loss to potential users, however: you really shouldn’t be leaving your home or office with these things.

Like most headphones without active cancellation, the ATH-W5000s block out more high-frequency sounds than lower ones.

Again, if you can somehow get the ATH-W5000s to contour to your head perfectly, they’ll likely isolate a bit better.

Comparisons

See how the Audio-Technica ATH-W5000 compares:

Audio-Technica ATH-ESW9 Compare

Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO Compare

Grado Labs SR60 Compare

Sennheiser HD 555 Compare

Click here for more information on our isolation test.

Leakage (8.12)

The ATH-W5000s leak, but they do so very directionally. Unless you have a very specific head shape, there will be a gap between your head and the top of the ear cups. Sound will leak out of this opening, but not much sound will leak out elsewhere. All in all, while the ATH-W5000s did a good job blocking leakage, it is present; it just isn’t particularly loud.

Click here for more information on our leakage test.

Maximum Usable Volume (10.00)

The Audio-Technica ATH-W5000s were capable of 121.17dB of playback, which means they passed our test with a golden 10.00. We award a maximum of 10 points to any headphones capable of 120dB or higher with a distortion level of under 3%. Many headphones are capable of 120dB or higher, but will sound like garbage doing so. With the ATH-W5000s, you will be graced with loud music with very minor levels of distortion.