Audio-Technica ATH CK9 Specifications, Tests and Review

The Audio-Technica ATH CK9 are wired headphones. In the case of studio and professional DJ headphones, a wired connection is a standard and a necessity. In this case, connecting via cable reduces audio transmission delays and prevents unwanted battery drain as it would be in case of wireless headphones. The same is de facto true for gaming headsets. In case of headphones for normal music listening, the cable is rather a relic, although it still has its fans. However, the wireless option is much more popular for everyday use in today’s world.

These headphones are in-ear type and are therefore designed to fit directly into the ear. This allows them complete or at least partial isolation from external noise. Such headphones may also have an ambient sound isolation function, which affects the degree of their isolation capabilities. Compared to over-the-head headphones, in-ear headphones are much more portable

The sound quality can be affected by many factors. The headphone's sensitivity determines how effectively they can receive a signal from a source. The higher the sensitivity of the headphones, the louder they can play at lower power consumption. However, at high volumes, power consumption increases, which can be a problem when listening to music from a cell phone. A sensitivity value of around 85 dB is suitable for quiet environments, while a value of around 90 dB allows for quality listening even in noisy environments. Headphones with a sensitivity value of 100 dB and above are suitable for extremely noisy environments such as concerts. Headphones Audio-Technica ATH CK9 are designed with sensitivity about 104 dB/mW.

The device connected to the headphones also plays a role most times. The lower impedance value (approximately 100 to 150 Ohms) is suitable for playback from mobile phones, laptops or other portable players that do not have a powerful enough amplifier. The lower impedance will ensure that the required volume level is achieved with less power, thus extending the life of the player. However, at the same time, with lower impedance, there is more distortion of the sound. Headphones with a higher impedance of around 250 Ohms and above are then more suitable for playback from really powerful signal sources or using a headphone amplifier, otherwise the sound coming out of them might not be loud enough. At the same time, higher-impedance headphones will also ensure less distortion in the sound. In the case of these headphones, the impedance reaches the 30 Ohm value.