Audio-Technica ATH-SQ1TW: Compact Design Meets Impressive Sound Quality
Truly wireless audio devices have been evolving rapidly, with new models becoming increasingly compact and lightweight. This trend is evident in the Audio-Technica ATH-SQ1TW, a tiny yet capable addition to the entry-range category of earbuds. The compact design, from the charging case to the earbuds, ensures portability and comfort, making long hours of wear effortless and pocketing the case hassle-free.
The ATH-SQ1TW earbuds boast a unique squarish design with a distinctive fin that secures them snugly in place. The fit is exceptional, remaining stable during activities like walking or even while lying down. For those who, like me, use earbuds to play sleep sounds at night, the minimal protrusion of these earbuds makes them particularly comfortable, even when lying on your side.
Despite lacking active noise cancellation, the earbuds provide decent passive noise isolation, effectively muting most ambient sounds. Powered by 5.8mm drivers, the ATH-SQ1TW delivers surprisingly punchy audio for its size. When listening to Birds of a Feather by Billie Eilish, the bass stood out while the overall sound profile was mellow and cushiony, avoiding sharpness or tinny distortions.
The earbuds also handle vocal-heavy tracks well. Playing Jo Tum Mero Ho by Anuv Jain showcased the clarity of vocals, which were well-balanced with the instruments. The soundstage felt spacious, with instruments distinctly spaced around the central vocals. However, richer, more complex tracks reveal the limitations of the smaller drivers, leaving audiophiles craving more depth.
For everyday use, the ATH-SQ1TW offers a balanced listening experience, albeit with a slight bass bias depending on the track. Podcasts, however, shine with these earbuds, thanks to their vocal clarity and detail.
Battery life is a trade-off for the device’s compactness. The earbuds provide 6.5 hours of playback on a single charge, with the charging case extending this to 19 hours. While this may be less than some larger models, it’s a reasonable compromise for their portability. Connectivity, however, can become slightly unreliable when the battery is nearly drained.
The Audio-Technica ATH-SQ1TW excels in its form factor, comfort, and sound quality for regular use. While it isn’t perfect, particularly in terms of battery life and the absence of noise cancellation, its compact design and well-rounded performance make it a solid option for those prioritizing portability and convenience.
