The Swift Summary
Pros
Cons
- Gorgeous aesthetics
- Impressive audio performance
- 30hr battery life
- NFC touch pairing
- A firm fit compromises long session comfort
Features of the Audio-Technica ATH-AR3BT headphones
- Impressive sound quality with rich, full-range audio
- Wireless connectivity (via Bluetooth or NFC)
- Foldable design
- On-ear cup design
- 30 hour battery life
- Rechargeable battery via USB
- Integrated remote playback controls
- Integrated microphone
- Remembers up to 8 previously connected Bluetooth devices
- Detachable mini jack audio cable for wired use
- Activate speech recognition software on connected devices (ie. Android assistant / Siri )
- Available in two colours: black or white (as shown below)
- Adjustable padded head strap
- LED status indicator
- 2 year manufacturers’ warranty
Swift Thoughts
Design
There’s no denying the ATH-AR3BT’s are a great looking set of headphones. I love the fluid curves from the cups to the headband as well as the metallic soft gold trim. The folding ear cup design is also a welcome addition for a compact travel option. The button design and positioning are also well thought out and I like the fact that they labelled the buttons for additional clarity.
Audio Performance
The ATH-AR3BT’s sound rich and immersive. The sound produced is a full-bodied, but natural sound that’s neither too thin nor too bassy. Unless you’re a nerdy audiophile, most users won’t want anymore from them in terms of sound quality.
Comfort
Comfort is good… and here’s the but. They have a firm fitting design, which is great for that sense of security whilst you’re moving or exercising with them. The only downside to this is that comfort is compromised a little when wearing for extended periods of time.
Build Quality
I have no complaints about the ATH-AR3BT’s in terms of build quality. If you look after them well they’ll last a long time.
Functionality
The headphones are really easy to use and the overall functionality is great. The manual is substantial and very helpful in covering all the features. The button placement is intuitive and the cables are a good length for most people’s needs.
Battery Life
With a whopping 30 hours of claimed battery life you won’t be recharging them often. This is definitely one of the features that sets the ATH-AR3BT’s apart from other wireless headphones.
Swift Scores
Design
Audio Performance
Comfort
Build Quality
Functionality
Battery Life
FAQs
Q: Are these headphones suitable for people who wear glasses?
A: The ATH-AR3BT’s do have a slightly tighter fit than some other headphones. Whilst this is great for those wanting to run or exercise with them, they are not so great if you plan on wearing them for long periods of time, especially for those who wear glasses.
Q: Will they fit larger heads?
A: They fit most head sizes, but if this is a specific concern then take a look at the AKG Y50BT’s instead.
Q: Are the Audio Technica ATH-AR3BT’s noise cancelling headphones?
A: Technically no, but they do block out a lot of ambient noise.
Q: How large are the ear cups?
A: Approx 7cm (2.8 inches)
Q: How long is the wire for connected use?
A: Approx 120cm (1.2 metres)
Q: Are they suitable for use whilst running?
A: Yes they work fine. Once the headphone band is adjusted properly, they clamp over your ears with enough force to not move about. We also noticed no problems with Bluetooth connectivity.
Q: Is there an audible hiss during quiet moments?
A: No.
Q: Do they come with a case?
A: No. Take a look below in our recommended accessories section.
Q: Do they leak sound?
A: Nope.
Q: Will they work with my iPad, iPhone, iPod etc…?
A: Yes, as long as they have Bluetooth connectivity.
What’s in the box?
- Audio-Technica ATH-AR3BT wireless headphones
- Detachable cable
- Micro USB charging cable
Tech Talk
What does SonicFuel® mean?
You may have heard the term SonicFuel® in related to the Audio-Technica ATH-AR3BT wireless headphones. The term is a registered trademark created by Audio-Technica to describe a particular range of headphones that they sell.
The idea is that music is energy, or ‘fuel’ for the heart and soul – hence Sonic Fuel. SonicFuel® headphones are specifically designed for active daily use with a natural sound that isn’t artificial or filtered.
How to pair your ATH-AR3BT headphones to a Bluetooth device
First make sure your device has Bluetooth connectivity switched on. Then turn the headphones on by sliding the power switch on the right ear cup. The indicator lamp will light in blue, and then flash in red and blue. You’ll hear a confirmation tone when pairing begins. When you’re syncing for the first time, you’ll need to select ATH-AR3BT on your device’s Bluetooth connection page. To confirm the two devices are connected you’ll hear another confirmation tone. Some devices may ask for a passkey. In this case, enter “0000”.
Once set up with your favourite device all you should need to do is switch the headphones on and connection will happen automatically.
What does NFC touch pairing mean and how does it work?
The Audio-Technica ATH-AR3BT headphones allow you pair them with NFC compatible Bluetooth devices. NFC stands for Near Field Communication which is a short-range wireless technology in which pairing starts by simply touching the two devices to each other.
To pair your AR3BT’s to your device, first make sure your device has NFC connectivity switched on. Then turn the headphones on by sliding the power switch on the right ear cup. Next, touch your NFC-compatible device to the N-Mark on the headphones (left ear cup) and then use your NFC-compatible device to complete the pairing process. To confirm the two devices are paired correctly you’ll hear another confirmation tone.
Audio-Technica ATH-AR3BT – Colours Options
The Audio-Technica ATH-AR3BT headphones are available in two colours – black or white.
Download the manual
If you’re interested you can download the Audio Technica ATH-AR3BT Manual in PDF format. Just look directly underneath the ‘Product Details’ section header. It’s called ‘User Manual’.
Alternative headphones
The AKG Y50BT are a superb alternative for on-ear wireless headphones. This award winning product gives an exceptional audio experience and has a looser fit for larger heads.
The Lindy BNX-60 are also a great alternative if you want noise cancelling headphones. Audiophiles may notice a small compromise on sound richness and quality though.
If you need noise cancelling headphones without compromising on sound quality then we recommend taking a look at the AKG N60NC headphones. Just expect to pay a little more for them.
Recommended accessories
Geekria EJB29 UltraShell is a well designed hard shell case suitable for your ATH-AR3BT headphones. Unlike cheap softer cases you might be recommended, this one will give your headphones better protection whilst travelling. It comes in eight different colour/material options and features an internal mesh pocket for accessories. It’s definitely worth investing in a case if you plan to travel with your headphones!
Avantree Priva III Bluetooth Audio Transmitter. This neat little gadget gives your TV or PC Bluetooth capabilities so you use it with your wireless Bluetooth headphones.
