Audio-Technica ATH-AL5NC: open-back headphones with active noise cancellation and LDAC

# What the ATH-AL5NC is

Audio-Technica's ATH-AL5NC is a wireless over-ear headset that pairs an open-back acoustic structure with active noise cancellation. The company positions it for listeners who want a spacious, natural sound and for competitive gamers who need low latency and comfortable long sessions.

# Sound and hardware

Because open-back cups leak sound and admit ambient noise, Audio-Technica combined the design with a hybrid active noise cancelling system and a sound leakage prevention mode. That ANC approach reduces steady, low-frequency background noise more effectively than transient or high-frequency sounds, but it will not match the isolation of fully closed-back ANC headphones.

# Connectivity and modes

Bluetooth 5.3 and supports multipoint pairing, so you can keep two devices connected (for example a computer and a phone) and switch between them without manually reconnecting. There's a low-latency mode for interactive gaming to reduce transmission lag.

Voice capture uses an internal MEMS microphone with a 50 Hz–10 kHz range. A 1.2-meter detachable cable with an inline condenser microphone is included for wired connections to consoles, sound cards, or PCs.

# Battery, weight and ergonomics

Open-back cups allow better ventilation during long sessions, which reduces heat buildup around the ears compared with closed designs.

# Practical tradeoffs

Choose these headphones if your priority is a spacious, natural-sounding presentation and comfort during long listening or gaming sessions. Expect these tradeoffs:

• Less passive isolation and audible audio leakage compared with closed-back ANC headphones.
• ANC effectiveness will be moderate and focused on persistent, low-frequency ambient noise rather than full soundproofing.
• Wired option and included cable add flexibility for low-latency or high-quality wired use.

# Price and availability

Audio-Technica lists the ATH-AL5NC at a suggested retail price of $279 and offers them through its official store.

# Bottom line

The ATH-AL5NC aims to bridge two different headphone philosophies: open-back acoustic clarity and practical ANC features. If you want an open, ventilated sound with long battery life and modern wireless conveniences—and you can accept some sound leakage and limited noise isolation—these headphones are a focused option to consider.