[Updated] CES 2017 Headphones New Releases, Exhibitors, Predictions

Keep checking back as this article will be frequently updated.  It’s the most wonderful time of year, CES 2017!  That thing called Christmas is pretty nice too!  But, tons of your favorite headphone and audio brands will be headed to Vegas to unveil the newest additions to their line-up and we are excited.  This is our CES 2017 Headphones article that’ll detail new releases, who will be exhibiting, predictions on new tech, and more as we find out. 

CES 2017 Headphones New Releases, Exhibitors, Predictions

We’ve had quite the year when it comes to innovations, with headphones creating 3D sound while others smaller than a dime project the clearest and highest definition of sound.  Keeping this in mind, CES is sure to astound. 

FOCAL

If you haven’t already blown all your cash on FOCAL Utopia, then you’ll be happy to know you can blow it all on their diamond-encrusted Utopia in collaboration with Tournaire.  This edition will cost you significantly more than the original version, priced at $120,000.  Whoa!  But hey, at least you already know these headphones deliver on sound so why not add a bit of bling to get your year started off right?  These headphones are available for pre-order at focal.com. 

Audeze

Audeze has officially announced the release of iSine planar magnetic in-ear buds specifically optimized for virtual reality.  The iSine was already said to work well with VR, however the iSine VR is tweaked to truly deliver.  As Engadget explains, the advantage of planar magnetic headphones in VR is they “provide a wider soundstage, better frequency response and lower distortion with a thin diaphragm and magnets instead of the cone drivers most headphones employ.”  The iSine VR will be sold late January at a MSRP of $400. 

Lucid Sound

Lucid Sound also announced their launch of officially licensed headsets with Xbox.  The headsets will be made specifically for Xbox One and Xbox One S. With the license the company “can now specifically develop and engineer audio products for the Xbox family of devices,” LucidSound CEO Chris Von Huber said.  More details will be revealed later this year. 

SONY

Sony is bringing the bass in wireless form with their new Extra Bass wireless headphones unveiled at CES.  The bass-head friendly can is called MDR-XB950N1.  It uses 40mm drivers to bang the bass over a frequency response of 20 to 20,000 Hertz.  also features active noise-cancelling technology.  These cans also tout active noise-cancellation.  They’ll be available overseas before hitting the US.  No word on the date, but they will retail in Europe for 280 Euros, that’s about $294 USD. 

PRYMA

c/o Ryan Waniata/Digital Trends

The beautiful Italian leather headphones inspired by intricate belt detailings took a step in a wireless direction at CES 2017.  Now being sold via McIntosh, Pryma headphones released their Bluetooth-based headphones called Aria.  By design, these cans require pairing to both your smart device and the headphones’ speakers to one another for stereo sound.  But Digital Trends says a rep advises this can be done fairly easy.  Users will power on the left ear cup and pair it to their phone or other device, and then tap on a button along the right ear cup to complete pairing the stereo.  The side of the headphones feature buttons to take calls, adjust the volume of your music, and navigate through your playlists.  Pryma’s Aria headphones will be available some time in the next few months. 

AKG

AKG by Harman also jumped on the wireless train at CES.  Their N60 NC on-ear headphone that is both collapsible and lightweight is now wireless making it an ideal carry-on travel companion.  It runs for about 30 hours and includes a detachable cable with an in-line mic and controller.  If the on-ear model is too big for you, AKG also announced an in-ear wireless noise-cancelling headphone called the N20 NC.  It’ll give you a 20 hours of use and includes a tangle-free fabric cable.  The AKG N60 NC Wireless and AKG N20 NC is available for purchase for $299.95 and $199.95, respectively at AKG.com in April and Summer 2017, respectively. 

KLIPSCH

Klipsch introduced a beautiful new line of wood-crafted headphones lined with plush leather at CES.  The stunning new trio called the Klipsch Heritage Line promise to deliver audiophile-grade quality sound with Biocellulose drivers and free-edge diaphragms.  These headphones, although pictured in a wired form, are going to be available in wireless and active noise-cancelling forms too. 

Monster

Monster has jumped on the truly wireless buds train announcing two of their very own sets.  One of the wireless bus will be a part of the iSports series while the other will join the Elements line.  Both will incorporate a y-shaped antenna called AirLink.  It’s designed to keep a secure and solid connection between your buds and the paired device.  The company has released much information on the iSports wireless model, but the Elements set is said to operate for up to 2.5 hours.  That’s just about the same playtime as its competitors already on the market.  A portable charging case assists in these buds achieving a run time of 21 hours.  This set will be available in April 2017. 

SHURE

First off, SHURE just announced the release of two new cables for their SE sound isolating in-ear monitors for SE215, SE315, SE425, SE535 and SE846.  One of the cables is your standard 3.5mm jack while the other is a Lightning connector which means iPhone 7 users can ditch the dongle – which shouldn’t be too hard since most seem to forget it anyways.  P.S. the Lightning cable is Apple certified.  Both cables called SHURE RMCE and SHURE RMCE-LTG feature an in-line mic and controller.  Sounds poppin’ to me!  They will retail for $39.99 February 1st. 

Audio Technica

Audio Technica went full throttle at this year’s CES, dropping a ton of new headphones to include high-quality IEMs, Bluetooth on-ears, and high resolution over-ears, in addition to a fully automatic belt-drive turntable and magnet phono cartridges.  Let’s give you the run down of all Audio Technica had to offer in our “CES 2017 Headphones” article starting now!  The high-resolution audio headphones called the Sound Reality series consists of in-ears, over-ears, and over-ear wireless.  The models are as follows: in-ear ATH-CKR100iS, ATH-CKR90iS and ATH-CKR70iS, over-ear wireless ATH-DSR9BT and ATH-DSR7BT, and the over-ear ATH-SR9. 

The ATH-CKR100iS ($389 USD, available Spring 2017) will have proprietary dual phase push-pull drivers, which utilize two 13 mm drivers that generate phase-aligned audio signals to better reduce intermodulation distortion.  The dual phase push-pull driver system provides spacious, expansive and detailed sound across a wide frequency range up to 45,000 Hertz.  To complement every style of music.  ATH-CKR100iS has an inline mic and controller for answering calls and controlling music and video playback on portable devices, and comes with XS, S, M and L-sized eartips and a hard carrying case.  It’ll cost $389 and will be available in Spring. 

The Sound Reality ATH-CKR90iS (left)in-ear headphones also employ the dual phase push-pull driver system, with a 13 mm and 10.4 mm driver operating in tandem and wired out of phase to provide lower harmonic distortion and improved damping and bass frequency control while the ATH-CKR70iS (right) in-ear headphones deliver high-res performance for $99.  This in-ear uses powerful 11.8 mm drivers with high-precision stabilizers for linear diaphragm movement, and lightweight machined aluminum housings that angle the drivers for superior sound quality with smooth frequency response.  It’ll be available in Spring along with ATH-CKR90iS.

Looking to create wireless audio that could sound just as good as high-res headphones without Bluetooth, Audio Technica created ATH-DSR9BT (left) and ATH-DSR7BT (right).  These headphones don’t send the digital signal through a series of steps that process and transform the signal because that leads to more distortion in your music.  The the ATH-DSR9BT’s Pure Digital Drive system, Audio-Technica combines its engineering know-how in designing headphone drivers with the latest technology.  In the system, the Trigence Semiconductor’s Dnote chipset is used instead of a traditional D/A converter and amplifier.  The Dnote system keeps the audio signal entirely in the digital domain from the source right through to the driver, eliminating distortion.  Both headphones support aptX HD, aptX and AAC codecs (as well as the SBC format) at up to 24-bit/48kHz signals in Bluetooth mode and deliver audio playback at up to 24-bit/96kHz.  They feature a built-in mic, volume control and a simple tap control for answering/ending calls and playing/pausing music on a compatible device.  Both will be available in Spring 2017 at $549 USD and $299 USD respectively. 

Another pair of Audio Technica CES 2017 headphones are the ATH-SR9 is also a high-res audio headphone incorporating 45 mm True Motion Hi-Res Audio drivers with Diamond-Like Carbon coated diaphragms and high-purity 7N-OFC (oxygen-free copper) voice coils. This gives you high-res audio without the Bluetooth capability.  These will run you $449 USD and will be available Spring 2017. 

But, that’s not all for Audio-Technica’s expansion on wireless devices.  The Japanese company announced three more BT headphones at CES.  The ATH-AR3BT on-ear model, Solid Bass ATH-CKS990BT and ATH-CKS550BT in-ear headphones join them. 

The ATH-AR3BT is a high-res in-ear wireless model that uses a new dynamic driver with a powerful magnetic circuit to deliver impactful bass with extended frequency response.  This headphone will cost $119 USD and will be available in black or white in Spring 2017. 

Audio-Technica’s Solid Bass ATH-CKS990BT (left) and ATH-CKS550BT (right) in-ear wireless headphones offer improved sound and wireless functionality.  The headphones have improved upon previous models with a more comfortable fit, over the previous models, along with more comfortable ergonomics, with the headphones’ control buttons located in front of the neckband for easier access and a more comfortable fit with better balance.  Both headphones are equipped to answer calls, control music playback and control volume.  The ATH-CKS990BT and ATH-CKS550BT employ new Dual Magnetic Field Multiple-Transition driver diaphragms (13 mm and 9.8 mm respectively) that are said to deliver impactful bass along with clearer midrange and treble.  The ATH-CKS990BT will be available in black in Spring 2017 at $199 USD; the ATH-CKS550BT will begin shipping in Spring 2017 in a choice of black/gold and white finishes at $119 USD. 

Also, the Sonic Fuel line added three new headphones to their line.  The The in-ear ATH-CKR50iS and ATH-CKR30iS incorporate improvements including a newly developed driver and machined brass stabilizer that keeps the drivers under precise control for clearer, more detailed audio quality. 

The ATH-CKR50iS (left, $49 USD) and ATH-CKR30iS (right, $39 USD) feature a redesigned, sleeker shape with a better positioned remote control.  The ATH-AR3iS on-ear model (US $79.00, available Spring 2017) shares the same newly developed dynamic driver and powerful magnetic circuit used in the ATH-AR3BT to deliver impactful bass with extended frequency response.  Both are available Spring 2017. 

Audio-Technica is the gift that keeps on giving.  Can you believe that we aren’t even done detailing all they have to offer in this “CES 2017 Headphones” article?  The company has also introduced an entirely new series called Live Sound which consists of the following models: ATH-LS400iS, ATH-LS300iS, ATH- LS200iS, ATH-LS70iS and ATH-LS50iS.These in-ear monitors were “created to bring the impact and excitement of the live concert experience to everyday listening,” said Crystal Griffith, Audio-Technica U.S. Marketing Manager.  All Live Sound models are equipped with an inline mic and controller for handling phone calls and music and video playback on portable devices.  All come with detachable 3-foot 9-inch cables with Audio-Technica’s new A2DC (Audio Designed Detachable Coaxial) connector, an all-new feature for 2017. 

The ATH-LS400iS ($579 USD) features a quad balanced armature driver design that combines two low-frequency drivers with a mid-frequency and a high-frequency driver within a single earpiece to deliver exceptionally detailed, dynamic, well-balanced sound across the entire frequency range.  The driver housings are constructed of titanium and clear Tritan copolymer resin to reduce unwanted resonance and distortion. 

The ATH-LS300iS ($389 USD) in-ear headphones employ a triple balanced armature driver with separate low-, mid- and high-frequency drivers for powerful, efficient sound distribution and a smooth, even tonal balance across an extended frequency range.  The ATH-LS200iS ($249 USD) utilizes a dual balanced armature design with a super-tweeter and a full-range driver, a configuration that delivers ultra high-frequency sounds in seamless balance with the rest of the headphones’ immersive soundscape.  Both models feature aluminum and Tritan clear resin housings and hybrid stainless steel/high-durability resin sound pipes for enhanced sound. 

The Live Sound ATH-LS70iS (left, $129 USD) and (right, $79 USD).  Both models uses a newly-designed Dual Symphonic Driver, which align two full-range drivers in a single housing and powers them simultaneously.  This configuration is said to yield a balanced sound with deep, articulate bass and clear midrange, and high frequencies.  The ATH-LS70iS employs carbon-coated 8.8 mm diaphragms and long voice coils while the ATH-LS50iS features high-quality 8.8 mm drivers.  The Live Sound series will be available in Spring 2017.  Wow, I’m impressed! 

But Audio Technica out did themselves.  But, it’s not over yet for our “CES 2017 Headphones” article. 

Cleer Inc.

Cleer Inc, the award-winning manufacturer of high-performance personal entertainment products just has announced their newest addition, Cleer NEXT Audiophile headphone.  It will officially unveil at CES 2017.  The Cleer NEXT audiophile headphone uses 40 mm ironless magnesium driver units along with precision-crafted magnesium diaphragms that are said to deliver bold and articulate sound.  Moreover, listeners can expect, “low and constant inductance, suppressed distortion via reduced eddy currents, and the constant application of force through the diaphragm’s useful and extended range of movement” to provide an unparalleled listening experience. “ The magical result is efficient, linear wideband frequency response (from sub-harmonics lows to extended highs upwards of 40 kHz﴿ that make the headphone disappear leaving only pure musical emotion behind,” writes the company.  These headphones will cost $699.99 and will be made available in Spring. 

Beyerdynamic

Beyerdynamic has got a few surprises for their loyal following base this year at CES.  The German company plans to unveil a new gaming headset equipped with a detachable boom mic and customizable ear cups (design covers included) – like that of the CUSTOM STREET and PRO.  What exciting news for “CES 2017 Headphones” readers?!  This headphone, called Beyerdynamic CUSTOM GAME, is the first gaming headset from this line.  CUSTOM GAME features a slider on the ear cup which adjusts the amount of bass delivered to the recipient.  Wearers can also select from four different hearing profiles – one designed to greatly reduce surrounding ambient noise and the three remaining for quieter environments to increase the opening of the headphone.  As described by Beyerdynamic, “The first setting with moderate bass is particularly effective for speech intelligibility when chatting.  It also offers the wearer a strategic advantage in that stalking attackers or the reloading of a weapon can be heard perfectly.  The second setting turns action games and driving games or cinematic cut-scenes into an acoustic experience, while the third setting really lets rip with maximum bass power.”  When it comes to sound the headphones reach a frequency response range of 5 to 35,000 Hertz on an impedance of 16 ohms.  Not sure on the cost as yet, but I have a feeling that’ll be revealed at CES.  Woohoo, doesn’t this make you excited to know what else is to come on our CES 2017 headphones article? 

Beyerdynamic will be present to unveil the Xelento, their first pair of high resolution in-ear monitors.  This bite-size buds feature beautiful metal alloy housings and an MMCX connection.  Like other top-of-the-line Beyerdynamic products, the Xelento employs Tesla technology to produce clean sound with a very low degree of total harmonic distortion in a portable and durable frame.  Beyerdynamic Xelento reaches a frequency response range of 8 to 48,000 Hertz and will cost around $1066 USD. 

Sennheiser

For those who are into VR and 360 degree video capture, Sennheiser has got a new pair of headphones for you.  Sennheiser Ambeo Smart Surround Headphones are designed to capture and replicate sound in a more realistic form through binaural audio.  The Ambeo Smart Surround headphones will capture audio through two in-ear microphones.  As described by Engadget, this method will “capture the subtle differences in… sounds as they reach both ears.  The 3D audio files can then be played back through an app on a smartphone.”  Basically, this makes capturing and recording the audio super simple.  Sounds pretty cool! 

Sennheiser will also make a splash at this year’s CES, giving curious consumers a chance to finally hear the Sennheiser PXC 550.  Though the headphones are retailing on Amazon, there’s nothing like getting to hear the revolutionary active noise-cancellation features, listen to the signature stellar audio, and feel the soft and snug ergonomic ear cushions.  Yes, I’ve tried these headphones on for a hot second or two.  The 550s are also fashioned with super easy to use swipe controls and smart gestures for controlling your music, answering calls, and activating noise cancellation or talk-through (ambient noise) technology. 

Nakamichi

“CES 2017 Headphones” article also is taking a look at some of the more innovative headphones sto hit the market as well.  Nakamichi headphones are a Japanese company who is working to build a headphone that provides both the best in sound without compromising your auditory health.  They’ve fashioned ELSA, the world’s first Extended Smart Listening Assistant.  The headphone is said to unlock extra musical details on your entire music library with their exclusive ironless dual driver technology.  It features an active monitor that measures harmful volumes while you enjoy your music to ensure safe listening.  Nakamichi ELSA headphone has already received the CES Innovation Award and will be showing by exclusive invitation during CES. 

Meters Music

If you’re looking for something a little larger with a cool-looking ear cup, Meters Music has got you covered and will be exhibiting at CES.  These cans come to you from the subsidiary of Ashdown Engineering who creates bass amplifiers for the stars (Bon Jovi, Lenny Kravitz, U2, and more).  Their OV-1 headphones feature a working volume unit meter that reads the output levels of the music you are playing.  So rad!  The Meters Music OV-1 headphones will run you about $355. 

Ossic X

Newcomer Ossic X is definitely on our “CES 2017 Headphones” list.  These immersive 3D cans have already taken the cake as CES 2017 Best of Innovation Award Honoree.  Ossic pairs advanced 3D audio algorithms with head-tracking and individual anatomy calibration to deliver accurate and more realistic 3D sound to your ears.  Ossic X is on pre-order and retails for $299. 

Ironova Ankkoro

Wearables will also make an appearance.  Look out for Ironova Ankkoro, the emotion-sensing wearable for gamers.  It’ll detect emotions of the wearer and affect the game accordingly, states the French company.  Basically, if you feel panicked in the game, expect blurred visuals.  Ironova Ankkoro is able to detect up to 12 different emotions.  Super cool right!  Make sure to check this little gadget out during the trade show. 

FIIL Headphones

FIIL headphones have plans to unveil their super savvy wireless sport headphones at CES.  FIIL Carat Pro earbuds are built to be the only workout wearable you’ll ever need.  Equipped with 4GB of storage, Carat Pro can hold about 1000 songs.  It also features a heart rate monitor, step tracker that varies by activity, a voice coach, and patented Speed Dependent Sound technology which pumps up corresponding beats and sound effects to keep you moving through your workout.  Pretty cool!  The buds are already for sale via Kickstarter, but will make an appearance in Las Vegas at the International Exhibition Hall Westgate #1214.  For obvious reasons this headphones is a must see for CES 2017 Headphones. 

Stages Headphones

Another crowd funding baby to make it to the big stage at CES will be Hero Stages headphone.  Stages LLC introduced Hero, which combines a high quality DAC, headphone amplifiers, and the ability to adjust the amount of ambient noise heard through the cans, in December via Kickstarter.  Hero will be exhibiting in the Eureka Park Marketplace at CES 2017 in Las Vegas. 

But if CES 2017 headphones aren’t your thing, LG will also be present with some cellular devices.  Not sure if they’ll be unveiling any headphones, but they are rumored to be releasing five new phones.  As The Verge explains, LG will be adding 4 new phones to its K Series (K3, K4, K8, K10) line-up along with a debut of the LG Stylo 3.  Read up on those specs here.  That’s not all for LG.  They’ll also showcase the new LG PJ9 levitating Bluetooth speaker. 

Altec Lansing, Harman International Industries, House of Marley, Jam Audio, Klipsch, Monster, Samsung, SOL Republic, and Sony are all expected to unveil new products.  As of yet, other headphone retailers have been a bit hush-hush on what they plan to unveil.  However, we do know the following retailers plan to exhibit and we will keep you posted on the latest in our “CES 2017 Headphones” article.