There is a sizeable pool of users who simply want passive isolation when listening to music rather than active noise cancellation. Audio-Technica has been presenting high-quality audio gear for years, be it wireless earbuds, over-ears headphones or turntables. What we have in for review is the ATH-SQ1TW, which promises to present hassle-free sound at an inexpensive price point.

It’s a pair of stylish earbuds that fits very well and the design is different from that of other companies. Overall, it’s a very straightforward device and it’s the simplicity that wins these sound cans a lot of praise.

Unboxing the device, you will find the earbuds, a short USB-C cable and extra ear tips in different sizes so you get a snug fit. The design of the case is squarish, which is an interesting choice. The design explains the ‘SQ’ in SQ1TW (TW stands for true wireless). The USB-C charging port and LED are at the back while the earbuds remain in the box via strong magnets. The box itself is compact enough to fit into one’s pocket.

Perfect fit

Pairing the device with an Android device is seamless and it supports Google Fast Pair. Keep the cover of the case open, take out both earbuds and your Android phone should prompt you to connect the two. As for iOS, Mac and PC, the pairing needs to be done manually through Bluetooth settings.

The squarish design sets the earbuds apart

The earbuds support single and dual modes, meaning you can use any of the buds independently. Each bud weighs only 5.2g and it fits snuggly in the ears. Plus, there is IPX4 splash resistance, meaning you can go around in a light drizzle without having to worry about the earbuds.

I have already mentioned that touch controls are supported on the earbuds. The left bud can be used to manage volume — a single tap will increase the volume while a double tap will decrease volume. A single tap on the right will start/pause playback while a double tap takes users to the next track. To play the previous track, you need to tap thrice. Also, accept and answer calls with controls on both buds.

Being lightweight, you will find the earbuds fit well and are comfortable in the ear canals. They offer a good passive seal to block most of the external noise. The best part of the design? It doesn’t look like an AirPods knockoff.

Getting the basics right

In many inexpensive earbuds, ANC affects sound quality. Audio-Technica does things differently. In case you are not a fan of ANC, you can always go for the hear-through mode, so that you are aware of your surroundings. The idea was to focus on the basics and get it right, which is what has been achieved. Agreed you don’t get aptX HD and LDAC codecs, yet it offers a musically pleasing performance across frequencies.

There is a 5.8-millimetre dynamic driver, ensuring the audio gets delivered clear and loud. There is well-defined instrument separation and a forward upper-mid range and trebles. As for bass, there is enough kick in this department. You can’t go wrong with the soundscape on this one.

I also like the low-latency mode for gaming. It reduces sound delay when playing games or while watching videos.

Even the microphone does a fantastic job. On a busy street, the microphone picks up the voice well and filters out most noises.

Should you buy it?

The earbuds are light and fit snugly in the ear canals

A full charge of the earbuds will offer 6.5 hours of playtime, which is fantastic for most users. In fact, we got slightly more out of it because even at low volume, music comes through clearly. With the charging case, you get a total of 19.5 hours of playtime. The sound quality is solid but it would be great if there was an app to fall back on. Second, a wear sensor would have helped (it allows earbuds to detect if it has been worn properly). But the omissions can be overlooked, thanks to the layered expansive soundstage that Audio-Technica ATH-SQ1TW offers.

At a glance

Device: Audio-Technica ATH-SQ1TW

Price: Rs 7,490 (MOP; MRP is Rs 8,710)

High notes

Reliable controls

The hear-through mode works well

Excellent sound

Good battery life

Muffled note

No companion app