If you thought Audio-Technica’s first cartilage conduction headphones were a game-changer, brace yourself for round two.

The newly announced ATH-CC500BT2 takes everything that made the original great and pushes it further, offering a refined blend of high-quality audio, all-day comfort, and intuitive features that integrate seamlessly into daily life.

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Designed to deliver premium sound without blocking your ears, the ATH-CC500BT2 lets you stay connected to your environment while enjoying crystal-clear music and calls. Whether you’re tackling a work-from-home marathon, enjoying a nature walk, or squeezing in a quick workout, these headphones adapt effortlessly.

The secret lies in Audio-Technica’s cartilage conduction technology, which transmits sound vibrations through the ear’s cartilage instead of the ear canal. This means enhanced hygiene, reduced ear fatigue, and an overall safer listening experience.

The ATH-CC500BT2 isn’t just a refresh — it’s a complete upgrade. Next-generation vibration drivers deliver clearer, richer sound at higher volumes, while the brand’s proprietary Acoustic Pure Sound Stabiliser mechanism prevents external vibrations from degrading audio quality.

Call clarity is also a major highlight, thanks to AI Noise Reduction powered by intelliGo, which isolates your voice from background noise, making online meetings and phone calls smoother than ever.

Need all-day power? You’ve got it. With a best-in-class 20-hour battery life on a full charge and a 10-minute quick charge yielding two hours of playback, the ATH-CC500BT2 ensures you’re never without your soundtrack. And for those unpredictable weather moments, an IPX4 water-resistant rating keeps you covered.

Meanwhile, Audio-Technica’s Connect app adds another layer of personalisation, allowing you to fine-tune your listening experience. Switch to Clear Voice Mode for enhanced dialogue, activate BGM Mode for relaxing background music, or enable Limit Sound Leakage Mode for discreet listening in public spaces.

For those seeking a moment of calm, the new Soundscape function offers a library of nature sounds designed to enhance focus, relaxation, or meditation.

Add in multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, voice assistant support, and an ultra-lightweight design (32 grams!) featuring flexible titanium and soft silicone materials, and you’ve got a pair of headphones that truly does it all.

The Audio-Technica ATH-CC500BT2 is now out, priced at £119/€139.

For more details, visit Audio Technica.

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