Audio-Technia ATH-AWKG is also called “Kurogaki”, from the rare Japanese wood used in the ear cups. The wood is also known as “date plum/black persimmon” and is a relative of ebony. It is sometimes used as a substitute for the latter as a material in musical instruments. The dark kurogaki wood is particularly hard, making it suitable as a cabinet material, except for the price – which is high.
Mysterious Kurogaki
Kurogaki is both hard to get hold of because it’s so rare, and also not easy to work with because of its high density, which makes the drying process very complicated.
Japanese Audio-Technica has handcrafted each pair of ATH-AWKGs, and each pair is unique because of the special dark veins in the wood. These are only found in very old trees, often over a hundred years old.
Audio-Technica Asada Zakura reveals any music production as clearly as glass - just as a pair of open headphones would. But they are not for everybody.
Throughout history, kurogaki has been admired for its almost mystical patterns. How the patterns are created is apparently still a mystery. The hand-lacquered ear cups emphasise the natural beauty of the wood, a beauty that Audio-Technica promises will only deepen over time.
Construction
The ATH-AWKG features ergonomic, sheepskin-covered ear cushions and headband that are hand-sewn for long-lasting comfort. The magnesium alloy headband is angled for an optimal fit.
Inside are Audio-Technica’s exclusive 53 mm drivers with high-efficiency magnets in Permendur material. This is a soft, magnetic alloy of cobalt and iron.
Audio-Technica Kokutan recreates the music with a warm glow that is almost incomparable in this class.
The devices also feature lightweight and durable titanium edges for optimal rigidity and 6N oxygen-free copper winding for minimal resistance. The dual air damping (D.A.D.S.) provides precise bass reproduction.
All to reproduce the most accurate, fast and dynamic sound possible.
Accessories
The headphones come with two 3 metre long cables with braided textile insulation, one with a 6.3 mm plug and one balanced with XLR. Naturally, an exclusive storage box decorated with curogaki wood is also included.
Audio-Technica ATH-AWKG: (In)availability and price
The Audio-Technica ATH-AWKG are on paper available now, but they won’t be easy to get hold of. Only four are coming to Europe. Should you be lucky enough to come across them before they sell out, the price is €3,500.
More info: audio-technica.com
