Erasing Persistent Background Noise on Audio Technica ATH-ANC500 Noise Cancelling Headphones

In many workspaces and travel settings, background noise can be a persistent annoyance. Even with premium noise‑canceling headphones, certain ambient sounds—such as the low hum of an HVAC unit, distant traffic, or a neighbor’s vacuum—can seep through. The Audio Technica ATH‑ANC500 is a high‑end, active‑noise‑cancelling headset that excels at reducing low‑frequency hiss, but a few users report that some low‑frequency hum or click‑type noises remain stubbornly present. This guide explains how to diagnose, eliminate, and prevent those annoying background sounds, ensuring the headphones deliver the full immersive experience they promise.

Why Persistent Background Noise Persists

Noise‑canceling headphones rely on active electronic cancellation. A built‑in microphone picks up ambient sound, then the headset emits an “anti‑phase” signal that destructively interferes with the incoming noise. This works exceptionally well for steady, low‑frequency rumble, but certain conditions can hamper performance:

• Frequency Range Limits: Most ANC algorithms focus on frequencies below 100 Hz. Higher‑frequency clicks or sudden bursts may not be fully suppressed.
• Microphone Placement: If the outer microphone is blocked or misaligned, the headset can misinterpret the incoming signal.
• Signal‑to‑Noise Ratio: Extremely quiet ambient noise can be lost in the headset’s internal electronic noise floor, preventing cancellation.
• Hardware Degradation: Over time, components such as the microphone capsule or the cancellation driver can age or become damaged.
• User Settings: The headphone’s adjustable ANC level or “Transparency” mode can unintentionally let more ambient sound through.

Understanding these factors helps you determine whether the issue is inherent to the headphone’s design or a removable fault.

Common Persistent Sounds on the ATH‑ANC500

The table helps you pinpoint the type of noise you are dealing with before you start troubleshooting.

Step‑by‑Step Troubleshooting Guide

1. Reset the Headphones

A simple reset can restore default firmware settings that may have become corrupted.

1. Power off the ATH‑ANC500 by holding the power button for 3 seconds until the LED turns off.
2. Disconnect any cables and turn the unit off completely.
3. Turn it back on and wait for the “Ready” LED to glow.
4. Test again in a quiet environment.

If the background noise persists, move to the next step.

2. Check ANC Settings

The ATH‑ANC500 offers three ANC levels: Low, Medium, High. Some settings may be less aggressive by design.

1. Press the ANC button (or use the companion app if available) to cycle through levels.
2. Listen to each level in the same environment.
3. Observe whether higher ANC eliminates the noise.

If no level removes the hum, the issue may lie with hardware or external factors.

3. Inspect the Microphones

The headset has an external microphone that feeds the cancellation algorithm.

• Cleaning: Dust or lint can obstruct the microphone opening. Gently blow or use a soft brush to clean.
• Positioning: Ensure the headset sits correctly on your head; a tilted fit can misalign the microphone.
• Cable Check: If you’re using the wired model, examine the cable for kinks or frayed sections that could interfere with the mic signal.

If cleaning or repositioning helps, the problem was likely due to blockage or misalignment.

4. Verify Firmware and App Updates

Audio Technica often releases firmware patches that improve ANC performance.

1. Download the latest version of the official Audio Technica app or companion software from the company’s website.
2. Connect the headset via Bluetooth or USB, depending on your model.
3. Follow the on‑screen prompts to update firmware.
4. After the update, restart the headset and test again.

Firmware updates may fix bugs that caused incomplete cancellation.

5. Test in Different Environments

Sometimes the background noise is specific to a particular environment.

• Quiet Room: Test in a place with minimal ambient sound (e.g., an empty conference room).
• Office: Test in your usual work area.
• Transit: Test on a train or bus where the hum may differ.

If the noise disappears in a quiet room but persists in your office, focus on environmental sources rather than headset issues.

6. Use the Transparency Mode

Transparency (sometimes called “Ambient Mode”) allows you to hear environmental sounds while listening to music. Surprisingly, using this mode for a few minutes can sometimes “reset” the internal ANC processors.

1. Turn on Transparency mode.
2. Let the headphones run for 2–3 minutes.
3. Switch back to ANC and listen.

If this trick works, keep an eye on the headphones’ power usage and battery life, as transparency uses more power.

7. Check the Headphones’ Physical Condition

A more thorough inspection can reveal hidden problems.

• Ear Cups: Look for cracks or deformation that could interfere with the driver’s vibration.
• Cables: For wired models, check for fraying, especially near the headphone jack.
• Battery: Low battery levels can reduce ANC effectiveness. Ensure the battery is fully charged.

If any damage is found, contact customer support for repair or replacement.

Advanced Techniques for Persistent Noise

If standard troubleshooting fails, try these more technical methods:

Adjust the Equalizer

In some cases, the residual noise may be a by‑product of the audio signal chain. Use your media player’s equalizer to attenuate problematic frequency ranges.

• Low‑Frequency Cut: Reduce 30–80 Hz if HVAC hum remains.
• High‑Frequency Cut: Reduce 500–1 kHz if click or pop sounds persist.

Use a small attenuation (2–4 dB) to avoid noticeable distortion.

Use a Dedicated Noise‑Cancelling App

Several third‑party applications provide custom ANC or adaptive noise cancellation by utilizing your device’s microphone and processing power. Apps like “Boom” or “Wavelet” can overlay additional filters on top of the headphone’s built‑in ANC.

1. Install the chosen app on your smartphone or computer.
2. Open the audio settings, select the ATH‑ANC500 as the output device.
3. Enable the app’s noise‑cancelling feature.
4. Fine‑tune the level to match your environment.

This method works best when the headphone’s internal ANC cannot fully cancel a particular type of noise.

Replace the Microphone Capsule

If the headset’s external microphone is permanently damaged, you may need to replace it.

1. Purchase a compatible replacement capsule from a reputable vendor or the manufacturer’s parts list.
2. Disassemble the headset by unscrewing the rear casing.
3. Locate the microphone module and disconnect the cable.
4. Insert the new capsule and reassemble.

Note: This procedure requires soldering skill and may void the warranty. Contact a professional if unsure.

Practical Tips to Avoid Persistent Background Noise

Incorporating these habits can extend the life of your headphones and keep them performing at their best.

When to Seek Professional Support

Despite your best efforts, some problems remain unresolvable without specialized tools:

• Persistent hum even after firmware update: Suggests hardware failure.
• Severe distortion: Indicates driver damage.
• Loss of ANC entirely: Points to a fault in the cancellation circuitry.

If your headset is still under warranty, contact Audio Technica’s customer support. For out‑of‑warranty units, a local electronics repair shop with experience in audio equipment may be able to diagnose and fix the issue.

Final Thoughts

The Audio Technica ATH‑ANC500 delivers outstanding noise‑cancelling performance for most environments. Yet, like any active electronic system, it can encounter persistent background noises under certain conditions. By systematically checking firmware, settings, hardware, and environment, you can often eliminate unwanted hum or clicks. When standard steps fail, advanced methods such as EQ adjustments, third‑party apps, or even component replacement can provide a solution. Ultimately, maintaining the headset with regular cleaning, proper storage, and firmware updates ensures you get the most out of your premium listening experience.

End of article.