Review: Audio-Technica ATH-SPORT90BTBK SonicSport Wireless in-Ear Headphones
Published on June 3, 2023, 6:10 p.m.
The Audio-Technica ATH-SPORT90BTBK are wireless Bluetooth in-ear headphones designed for athletes and active lifestyles. With features like high-sensitivity drivers, built-in music storage, secure ear fins, ambient noise control, and waterproofing, these headphones aim to deliver great audio performance during workouts while standing up to the rigors of exercise.
Overview
- Connectivity: Can connect wirelessly via Bluetooth to smartphones/devices or play audio files stored on built-in 4GB music player
- Design: In-ear earbuds with four sizes of silicone tips and ear fins for secure fit
- Controls: In-line remote and mic for calls and music
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours playback from internal storage, 5 hours wireless
- Waterproof: IPX5 waterproof rating
Key Features:
- IPX5 waterproof rating - can withstand sweat and washing
- Ambient sound mode lets in outside noises for safety
- Internal 4GB storage allows music playback without phone
- Secure fit with ear fins to stay in place during exercise
- Crisp, balanced sound reproduction
Sound Quality
The ATH-SPORT90BTBK feature 6mm drivers tuned to deliver clear sound with powerful bass, nicely reproducing music across various genres like metal, rock, and punk. The sound has been described as crisp and well-balanced by most users. Some, however, felt the bass was overly exaggerated. The Bluetooth connection provides decent wireless audio quality.
Comfort and Fit
With the array of included silicone eartips and ear fins, finding a secure and comfortable fit is possible for most ear shapes. However, some users with smaller ears did report the fit feeling loose even on the smallest fins/tips. The around-the-neck cable is adjustable and stays put during exercise. Overall, comfort is decent but an issue for some.
Features and Battery Life
The built-in 4GB of storage provides the freedom to listen without a phone during workouts. Battery life reaches up to 8 hours this way or 5 hours of wireless playback. The ambient mode lets in outside sound for safety. Voice prompts confirm power, Bluetooth, and battery status. The headphones have magnets to link the earbuds together around the neck when not in use. Waterproofing withstands sweat and washing.
Use Cases:
The ATH-SPORT90BTBK headphones are ideal for workouts like:
- Running and jogging outside
- Home and gym cardio sessions
- Strength training
- Sports like basketball, soccer, tennis
- Active jobs or chores
User Feedback Analysis:
These headphones have received mixed reviews averaging 3.6/5 stars. Positive feedback focuses on the great sound quality, especially the clear and balanced profile delivering pleasing music reproduction without overdone bass. The waterproofing and ability to store music internally are also highlights.
However, some downsides mentioned are the fit feeling loose for those with smaller ears, even on the smallest ear tips/fins provided. Battery life is decent but could be improved beyond the 5-8 hours. A few users also pointed out the cancer/reproductive harm warnings which should be considered.
Pros:
- Balanced, crisp sound profile
- Waterproof and sweat-resistant
- Ear fins and tips provide secure fit
- Ambient sound mode for safety
- Internal storage playback without phone
Cons:
- Bass may be exaggerated for some
- Fit might be loose for smaller ears
- Battery life is just average
- Health/safety warnings to note
Value:
With a retail price of $159 but deals around $100, the ATH-SPORT90BTBK are reasonably priced given their sound quality and sport-friendly features. More premium wireless earbuds can cost over $150+ so these represent a decent value for gym goers.
Conclusion
With strong audio performance, sport-ready design, and useful features like internal storage and ambient sound mode, the ATH-SPORT90BTBK are a decent option for workout headphones. Comfort and fit could be improved for some users, and the bass may be exaggerated, but overall they deliver quality sound and freedom of movement for active lifestyles. Just be aware of the potential health risks mentioned in warnings.
Specifications:
- Drivers: 6mm
- Frequency Response: 5 - 25,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 105 dB/mW
- Battery: Lithium-ion (5 hr wireless, 8 hr internal)
- Charging Time: 2 hours
- Weight: 0.8 oz (22g)
- Bluetooth Version: 5.0
Box Includes:
- ATH-SPORT90BTBK earbuds
- XS/S/M/L eartips
- XS/S/M/L ear fins
- Charging cable (USB-A to USB-C)
- Carrying pouch
