Over-Ear
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X
76Great
$277
Full review dataAudio-Technica ATH-AD700X vs Nectar Hive: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Nectar Hive comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 85. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: Nectar Hive - Outstanding overall at around $197.
Over-Ear
Nectar Hive
85Outstanding
$197
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X
Sound8.0
Noise cancelling0.0
Value7.0
Nectar Hive
Sound9.0
Value7.0
Specifications
| Spec | Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X | Nectar Hive |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $277 | $197 |
| HearWiki score | 76 / 100 · Great | 85 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2013 | 2022 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | Dynamic | Electrostatic |
| Driver size | 53 mm | - |
| Drivers per side | 1 | - |
| Frequency response | 5Hz-30kHz | 20Hz-7kHz |
| Sound signature | - | Bright neutral |
| Impedance | 38 Ω | - |
| Sensitivity | 100 dB/mW | - |
| Wireless | ||
| Multipoint pairing | No | - |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | - |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 265 g | 370 g |
| Detachable cable | No | - |
| USB-C | No | - |
What reviewers said
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X
The Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X is a lightweight, open-back over-ear headphone designed for critical listening, offering a wide, spacious soundstage and clear, detailed audio. While it excels in comfort and easy drivability thanks to its low 38-ohm impedance, its weak bass response and significant sound leakage make it best suited for quiet home environments rather than portable or casual use. The non-detachable 3-meter cable with a 1/4-inch plug further reinforces its stationary, audiophile-oriented design.
- Pro:Wide and immersive soundstage
- Pro:Very lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
- Pro:Clear, detailed mids and highs
- Con:Bass lacks punch and control
- Con:Significant sound leakage and poor isolation
- Con:Bulky fit, not ideal for on-the-go use
Nectar Hive
The Nectar Hive is a wired electrostatic over-ear headphone priced around $600, weighing just 370 grams. It delivers a bright neutral sound signature with a frequency response spanning 20Hz to 7kHz, offering a detailed and airy presentation that leans toward analytical clarity. This model earns high marks for its tonal balance and technical performance, making it a strong contender in its price bracket for listeners who prefer a crisp, revealing sound.
- Pro:Excellent tonal accuracy and neutrality
- Pro:Impressive technical detail retrieval
- Pro:Featherweight design for comfort
- Con:Bright tilt may be fatiguing for some
- Con:Limited bass impact due to electrostatic nature
- Con:Requires dedicated amplifier for proper use
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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