Audio-Technica Launches ATH-CC500BT2 Cartilage Conduction Headphones with Open-Ear Design

When Audio-Technica rolls out new gear, it's hard not to get a little excited. The ATH-CC500BT2 cartilage conduction headphones are no exception—they're shaking things up with a unique approach to open-ear listening. Instead of the usual bone conduction, these headphones transmit sound through the cartilage of your ear, leaving your ear canals completely unobstructed.

This design is a game-changer for those who like to stay aware of their surroundings while enjoying music. Whether you're out for a jog or navigating busy streets, being able to hear ambient sounds is a huge plus. Plus, cartilage conduction is said to be more comfortable than bone conduction since it doesn't press as hard against your head.

Building on the first generation from 2022, the ATH-CC500BT2 comes in a smaller and lighter package, making long listening sessions even more comfortable. They stay put during light exercise, and with an IPX4 water resistance rating, a bit of sweat or rain won't be a problem.

On the tech side, these headphones offer up to 20 hours of playback on a single charge, which is pretty impressive. And if you're in a pinch, a quick 10-minute charge via USB-C gives you an extra 2 hours of listening time. The multipoint Bluetooth connectivity means you can switch between devices without a hitch.

While there's no active noise cancellation (makes sense given the open-ear design), the ATH-CC500BT2 features AI Noise Reduction for clearer calls by isolating your voice from background noise. They also support voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant, and you can tweak settings through the Audio-Technica Connect app on your smartphone. The app lets you adjust EQ settings and even access different soundscapes, perfect for tailoring the listening experience.

A standout feature is the Limit Sound Leakage Mode, which is handy for minimizing sound spill in public spaces. Given the open-ear design, it's a thoughtful addition that keeps your music to yourself.

Supporting AAC and SBC codecs, along with A2DP, AVRCP, and HFP Bluetooth profiles, the ATH-CC500BT2 covers all the bases for wireless audio. All in all, it's an intriguing option for those looking for comfort, awareness, and decent sound quality in one package.

The ATH-CC500BT2 is currently available in the UK and Europe, priced at £119 and €139 respectively. Availability in other regions has yet to be announced.