Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV: The Ultimate Lightweight Headphones for All-Day Listening

Published on June 11, 2023, 6:47 p.m.

Looking for a lightweight pair of headphones you can wear all day in comfort? The Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV should be on your radar. These over-ear headphones from the acclaimed Audio Technica deliver surprising sound in a featherlight package.
 Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones

Overview

The ATH-EQ300M SV headphones sport Audio Technica’s signature over-ear clip-on design. Weighing just 33 grams, they are incredibly lightweight while still providing decent noise isolation and audio quality. The open-air design prevents ear fatigue over long listening sessions.

Key specs and features:

  • Lightweight at only 33 grams
  • Over-ear clip-on design for stability and comfort
  • Open-air design prevents ear fatigue
  • Wired connectivity
  • Silver color scheme

Design

The Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones impresses with its slim and minimalist aesthetic. The silver color scheme looks modern and refined.

The unique over-ear clips attach securely without adding much bulk or weight. This makes the headphones disappear on your ears for distraction-free all-day wear.

While made of plastic, the construction feels decently solid for the price. The 1.2m cable is thin but seems fairly durable.

Sound Quality

With its open-air design, the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones delivers a balanced sound signature that focuses more on mids and treble rather than bass.

The sound has good clarity and detail. Listening to podcasts and audio books, vocals come through crisp and natural. Acoustic and jazz music sounds airy and lively on these headphones.

Bass is present but lacks thump or impact. Genres like EDM and hip hop won’t get you grooving with these. But the open design gives music a spacious soundstage.

Comfort

Weighing practically nothing, the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones basically floats on your ears. The ear clips are designed to avoid pressure points. I barely notice I’m wearing them even after hours of use.

The open design prevents sweaty ears or fatigue. Glasses can be worn without any issues.

Compared to in-ear headphones, the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones is far more comfortable for prolonged use. The clips hold everything securely in place without a squeeze.

Ease of Use

These headphones offer effortless, fuss-free usage. Simply clip them on and enjoy your audio.

The angled earbuds and flexible clips adjust to fit any ear size comfortably. The long right cable ensures no tugging or constraints.

With no batteries or buttons, just plug in and start listening. The open design allows you to quickly hear conversations or ambient sounds.

Build Quality

The plastic construction feels decently sturdy but not premium. The headband can creak if twisted and the thin cable is prone to kinking.

While they likely won’t withstand abuse, for day-to-day use the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones should hold up fine if treated with care.

Noise Isolation

The open-back design allows outside noise to bleed in and your audio to leak out. Noise isolation is moderate at best.

At lower volumes they are fine for public use. But crank them up and others around you will hear what you’re listening to.

Wired Connectivity

The Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones connect via a 3.5mm plug. The 1.2m cable gives flexibility in wearing options. No batteries or Bluetooth required.

Just plug into your phone, tablet, or laptop headphone jack to start listening. A 3.5mm female-to-female adapter can connect to stereo systems.

Water Resistance

These Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones lack official water resistance ratings. The openings on the earbuds and clip-on design aren’t ideal to withstand sweat or rain.

Care should be taken near moisture to prevent corrosion or damage. For vigorous workouts, choose a waterproof sports model instead.

Ideal For

The Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones is ideal for:

  • All-day wear - barely noticeable on your ears
  • Audio books and podcasts - clear vocals without fatigue
  • Home and office use - open design doesn’t block conversations
  • Outdoor activities like walking - lets in ambient sounds
  • Glasses wearers - ear clips avoid pressing on frames

Diving Deep into User Reviews

With over 3,000 global reviews and a shining 4.2/5 star overall rating, the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV headphones have won over countless customers. But what exactly are people saying about their experience with these feathery ear clips? Let’s analyze the user feedback in detail.

The most resounding praise for the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones highlights their barely-there comfort. Reviewers are blown away by how lightweight and non-intrusive these headphones feel, even during marathon listening sessions:

  • “These are so freakishly lightweight I often forget I’m even wearing them. I can keep them on for my entire work day without any ache or sweatiness.”

  • “It’s amazing how such a lightweight product can stay on your ears securely. I can look down quickly and not see them fall off like other cheap headphones.”

  • “These disappear on my head unlike bulky headphones that hurt after an hour. I can even sleep with them on to listen to ASMR.”

Another common theme is the natural, balanced sound - ideal for podcasts, audio books, and vocals:

  • “The open design gives music and videos a very spacious, room-filling sound. Vocals are crystal clear without being shrill or piercing.”

  • “I tried these for meditations and yoga videos. They make the teachers’ voices sound rich and tranquil without being distracting.”

  • “Acoustic ballads and classical pieces sound absolutely magical on these headphones. So light yet the mids and highs come through with surprising clarity.”

However, many point out the lack of bass as the biggest downside:

  • “I like a lot of EDM and hip hop so I need powerful bass. These headphones leave a lot to be desired in the low end.”

  • “They are just not designed for bass lovers - the openness prevents that deep punch even at max volume.”

  • “The sound is great for acoustic music but nothing rocks or bumps out of these. The bass is anemic at best.”

So while not ideal for bass-heavy genres, the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones earns overwhelmingly positive feedback for its groundbreaking comfort and balanced, fatigue-free sound. For anything requiring vocal clarity, they deliver impressive quality considering their tiny price tag.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Extremely lightweight and comfortable
  • Secure fit with ear clips
  • Open-air design prevents ear fatigue
  • Neutral, balanced sound quality
  • Great value under $20

Cons:

  • Bass lacks punch
  • Sound leakage at higher volumes
  • Plastic build feels a bit cheap

Price and Availability

First released in 2012, the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones usually retails around $15-20. This makes them a steal for the design and performance.

They are readily available from major retailers like Amazon. Multiple color options exist, but silver remains the most popular.

Conclusion

With their barely-there weight and clever ear clip design, the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV headphones are perfect for all-day wear. Their balanced, fatigue-free sound shines for podcasts, audio books and vocal-centric music. For just $15, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more comfortable pair of headphones.

Specifications

  • Model: ATH-EQ300M SV
  • Type: Over-ear, open-back
  • Driver: 30mm
  • Frequency response: 20 - 20,000 Hz
  • Impedance: unknown
  • Sensitivity: unknown
  • Connector: 3.5mm (1/8”) gold-plated stereo mini plug
  • Cable length: 1.2m
  • Weight: 33g

What’s In The Box

The Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV headphones come with:

  • Left and right earbud units
  • 1.2m connector cable
  • Instruction manual
  • Warranty information

How To Wear

  1. Place the right earbud clip over your right ear from the front. The right cable is longer.
  2. Wrap the cable behind your neck and position the left earbud on your left ear.
  3. Adjust the angle and placement of earbuds until they sit securely and comfortably.
  4. Run the cable under clothing if desired to keep free from snags.
  5. Ensure each earbud is marked “L” (left) and “R” (right) before inserting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I properly wear the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones?

To wear the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones correctly, identify which earphone goes on each ear by checking the markings on the plastic part of the earphone. The right earphone has a longer wire, which should be wrapped around the back of your neck. Attach the plastic part around your ear from the front, adjusting the opening for a comfortable fit. For convenience, run the wire connecting the earphones and your device under your shirt.

What color options are available for the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones?

The Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones are available in several color options, including Black, Brown, Pink, Purple, Silver, and White. This variety allows users to choose a color that best suits their style or preference.

What should I expect in terms of sound quality from the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones?

While the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones provide a detailed and clear midrange, making them suitable for acoustic or vocal-centric music, they may not deliver strong bass or high treble clarity. This sound profile is ideal for casual listening, especially in environments where you need to remain aware of your surroundings.

Are the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones comfortable for extended use?

These headphones are designed to be lightweight and non-invasive, making them suitable for extended use without causing discomfort. They are particularly recommended for users who find in-ear headphones uncomfortable or who do not prefer the bulkiness of over-ear headphones.

How durable are the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones?

The Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones are reasonably durable for their price point. However, like any electronic device, they should be handled with care. The ear hook design is meant to provide stability and comfort, but it’s important to avoid excessive force to prevent damage.

Tips

  • When using the Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M SV Ear-Fit Headphones for the first time, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the correct way to wear them to ensure maximum comfort and sound quality.
  • If you use glasses, these headphones are designed to be compatible and comfortable, as they do not press down on the ears or the sides of the head.
  • For optimal sound quality, ensure that the earphones are correctly positioned and securely fitted around your ears. This can also help minimize sound leakage, allowing for a more private listening experience.
  • Keep in mind that these headphones are not designed for high-intensity physical activities where there is a risk of them falling off or being subjected to excessive sweat or moisture.