Sony MDR-Z1R vs Audio Technica ATH-AWKT – Full Comparison & Verdict (2026)

Keep the sound pure. Hard case for storage. Enjoy lightweight luxury. Enfolding design structure. Listen in cushioned comfort. Signature Series Headphones. Smooth sound at all frequencies. Engineered and crafted in Japan. TA-ZH1ES compatible for ultimate sound. Hear music at it best with High-Res Audio. Hear the difference with massive 70mm HD drivers. Enjoy full range sound up to 120kHz frequency response. Ensure superior sound quality with a separated ground cable. Minimize resistance and signal loss with silver-coated OFC cables.

All Audio-Technica wooden headphones are hand-assembled in Tokyo. Double Air Damping System structure provides deep bass reproduction. 6N- High-Purity, Oxygen-Free Copper voice coil provides ideal signal transfer. Magnesium alloy headphone arm is angled to provide the best possible fit with excellent earcup seal. Drivers lightweight, durable titanium flange allows the diaphragm to react to the signal more accurately. Kokutan housings, hand-finished with half-gloss, suppress unwanted resonance for clear, natural sound reproduction. Stitched ergonomic earpads and headband are made from smooth, high-durability sheep skin for long-lasting comfort. Exclusive 53mm driver units with highly efficient German Permendur magnetic circuitry deliver powerful audio with a wide sound field. Two detachable 3.0 m (9.8') cables with A2DC (Audio Designed Detachable Coaxial) connectors at the headphones: one with a 6.3 mm (1/4") gold-plated stereo plug, the other with a 4-pin XLRM balanced connector.

From a usability standpoint, both models provide a reliable and premium headphone experience. The driver size differs between the two (70 mm vs 53 mm), which can influence sound depth, bass response, and overall audio clarity. Both models support modern Bluetooth connectivity, ensuring stable wireless performance with compatible devices. The frequency response differs (4 Hz - 120000 Hz vs 5Hz - 45KHz), which can influence how well the headphones reproduce lows, mids, and highs. If you're comparing Sony MDR-Z1R and Audio Technica ATH-AWKT, both models offer a strong combination of sound performance, comfort, and modern wireless features. Sony MDR-Z1R and Audio Technica ATH-AWKT offer different noise cancellation capabilities (NA vs Sound Isolation), which can impact how effectively they block external noise. Both headphones offer solid battery performance, making them suitable for long listening sessions and travel. Impedance levels vary (64 ohm vs 48 ohm), which can affect compatibility and audio output when used with different devices. There is a noticeable difference in weight (385 Gm vs 405 GM), which may affect comfort during extended use.

Verdict: Choosing between Sony MDR-Z1R and Audio Technica ATH-AWKT depends on whether you value better sound, longer battery life, or enhanced features.

Top Differences

Noise Cancelling: NA vs Sound Isolation
Driver Size: 70 mm vs 53 mm
Weight: 385 Gm vs 405 GM
Impedance: 64 ohm Vs 48 ohm

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Top Differences