Audio-Technia also made a wired version of the previously reviewed ATH-G1WL wireless gaming headset, called the ATH-G1. The main difference between the wireless and the wired version is that the latter does not have the surround sound mode, mic monitor feature, and spare ear pads in the box. Also, the wired Audio-Technica ATH-G1 is cheaper, retailing at S$238.

As the ATH-G1 is very similar to the ATH-G1WL, most content in this review will be the same as what you find in the ATH-G1WL review.

Unboxing

In the box, you will find the following items:

ATH-G1 headphones
Audio splitter
Microphone
User manual

Tech specs

Headphones Type	Closed-back dynamic
Driver	45 mm
Frequency Response	5 – 40,000 Hz
Sensitivity	101 dB/mW
Impedance	45 ohms
Weight	250g (without cable) 257g including detachable microphone
Microphone Type	Condenser
Microphone Sensitivity	-43 dB (1V/Pa, at 1 kHz)
Microphone Frequency Response	30 – 20,000 Hz
Microphone Polar Pattern	Hypercardioid

Build quality and design

The Audio-Technica ATH-G1 looks almost identical to the ATH-G1WL, just that it comes with a wire attached. It still features the iconic Audio Technica design of the color accent ring around its logo. The ATH-G1 presents a somewhat industrial looking design with its metal headband and construction.

The wires are exposed, which to be honest looks a little messy and dangerous as you may accidentally hook it against something and damage the headphone. Other than that, the build quality on the ATH-G1 is good. The metal construction of the headband feels sturdy yet flexible. The plastic earcups have a nice matte finish which resist fingerprints well, and do not have any signs of flex or creaking.

There isn’t any buttons on the ATH-G1. The only ports you have is the microphone jack on the left ear cup. The main controls of volume and microphone is located on the wire itself. The wire is a little too thick and cumbersome for my liking. It makes the overall headphone feel a little cheaper than how the headset itself looks. It would be great if the wire was detachable.

Comfort and fit

Like the ATH-G1WL, the ATH-G1 headphones are comfortable to wear. They feel light on my head and the clamping pressure is just nice. I do wish the headband had a little wider cushioning so it offers more surface area coverage.

The earpads feature a mix of leather and mesh material, which is soft and does not feel too warm while wearing. There is a good amount of room in the ear cups as well. I found them to remain cooler than the Creative SXFI Theatre.

Sound quality

The Audio-Technica ATH-G1 has the same tuning as its wireless counterpart. There is emphasis on bass which gives the lows more thump and depth to it. When gaming, the slight boost in bass adds more flavour to sound effects such as explosions. As for midrange, vocals stand out well with good amount of clarity and separation with the instruments. Highs are clear and smooth, instead of sounding bright to give it a good balance in the overall mix. Soundstage is wide and sound imaging is accurate. Be it listening to music or playing games, it is easy to discern the instruments or the various sound effects.

Microphone quality

The microphone on the Audio-Technica ATH-G1 is good and reliable to use when gaming. My voice sounded clear, detailed, and there were also some levels of bass and depth in my speech. The microphone largely focuses on capturing mid-tones of my voice, resulting in warm output.

The microphone is detachable which is useful if you just want to use the ATH-G1 for casual media enjoyment.

Conclusion

The Audio-Technica ATH-G1 wireless gaming headphones offers great sound, comfort and microphone – which are the fundamentals of any good gaming headphone. At S$238, it is a little costly for a wired gaming headset especially when it doesn’t come with any special ‘gaming’ feature. But where the ATH-G1 shines at is nailing the basics of sound, comfort and microphone. If these categories are your main demands, the Audio-Technica ATH-G1 serves up a rather reliable gaming headset.