Audio-Technica’s R2-D2 Earbuds Play Beeps and Bloops for Audio Alerts

In a galaxy not so far away, Audio-Technica has joined forces with Star Wars to create a limited edition series of wireless earbuds that blend high-quality audio with iconic character designs. The ATH-CKS50TW2 earbuds, already known for their impressive sound and features, now come in four unique Star Wars-themed variants.

Announced ahead of Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025, these special edition earbuds are set to delight fans of the beloved franchise. The collection features designs inspired by The Mandalorian, Grogu (The Child), Darth Vader, and R2-D2, each with character-specific packaging and sound effects.

Among the standout models is the R2-D2 variant, which captures the droid’s signature beeps and bloops. When paired with a device, these earbuds play R2-D2’s iconic sounds for notifications, pairing confirmations, and other alerts, adding a layer of immersion for fans.

While the designs are playful, the earbuds maintain the same technical prowess as the standard ATH-CKS50TW2 model. They boast 9mm dynamic drivers, hybrid noise-cancellation, and ambience control features like hear-through and talk-through modes. The IP55 rating ensures they’re dust and splash resistant, making them durable for everyday use.

Connectivity is seamless with Bluetooth 5.3 support, allowing dual-device pairing. The Magnetic Switch technology helps conserve battery life, which is impressive at up to 25 hours of playback time for the earbuds alone. With the charging case, that extends to 65 hours. The case also supports both USB Type-C and Qi wireless charging for added convenience.

Priced at $179, these limited edition earbuds are $30 more than the standard version. They will be available for pre-order in the U.S. starting April 21 through Audio-Technica’s website, with a official release on May 4, 2025—a date celebrated by fans as Star Wars Day.

For Star Wars enthusiasts, these earbuds offer a unique way to showcase their fandom while enjoying high-quality audio. With character-specific designs and sound effects, they provide an immersive experience that bridges the gap between technology and pop culture.

Designs and Features Inspired by Iconic Star Wars Characters

Beyond the R2-D2 variant, the limited edition series showcases three other iconic Star Wars characters, each with its own unique design and thematic elements. The Mandalorian edition features a sleek metallic silver and grey finish, complete with inscriptions of “Bounty Hunter” and “Mandalorian,” paying homage to the legendary warrior. Meanwhile, the Grogu (The Child) variant offers a smoke green shade, adorned with “The Child” and “Little Bounty” inscriptions, capturing the charm of the beloved character.

The Darth Vader edition takes a darker approach with an all-black design, accompanied by the ominous phrase “The power of the Dark side.” This variant immerses users in the Sith Lord’s presence through lightsaber sounds and his iconic breathing effects during notifications and interactions. Similarly, the R2-D2 model brings the droid’s personality to life with its signature beeps and whistles, creating an engaging audio experience for fans.

Each pair comes in character-specific packaging, adding to the collectible appeal. The attention to detail extends to the unboxing experience, making these earbuds a must-have for Star Wars enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The earbuds will be officially unveiled at Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025, taking place from April 18 to April 20. This event will provide fans with an exclusive first look and the opportunity to experience the earbuds before their global release.

While the price of $179 is $30 more than the standard ATH-CKS50TW2 model, the unique designs, character-specific sound effects, and themed packaging justify the premium for die-hard Star Wars fans. Pre-orders will open in the U.S. on April 21 via Audio-Technica’s website, with the official launch set for May 4, 2025—a date that coincides with Star Wars Day, further amplifying the excitement for fans worldwide.

Conclusion

Audio-Technica’s limited edition Star Wars-themed earbuds offer a unique blend of high-quality audio and immersive character designs. With variants inspired by R2-D2, The Mandalorian, Grogu, and Darth Vader, these earbuds cater to both Star Wars enthusiasts and audiophiles alike. The inclusion of character-specific sound effects, premium packaging, and robust features like hybrid noise cancellation and long battery life make these earbuds a standout choice. Priced at $179, they are a worthwhile investment for fans looking to combine their love for Star Wars with exceptional audio performance. Don’t miss the chance to pre-order starting April 21, with the official release on May 4, 2025—Star Wars Day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Star Wars-themed earbuds?

The limited edition Star Wars-themed earbuds are priced at $179, which is $30 more than the standard ATH-CKS50TW2 model.

When will the Star Wars earbuds be available for purchase?

Pre-orders for the Star Wars-themed earbuds will open in the U.S. on April 21, 2025, with an official release on May 4, 2025, coinciding with Star Wars Day.

How long is the battery life of the earbuds?

The earbuds offer up to 25 hours of playback time on a single charge, extending to 65 hours with the charging case.

What makes these earbuds different from the standard ATH-CKS50TW2 model?

These limited edition earbuds feature unique Star Wars character designs, themed packaging, and character-specific sound effects, such as R2-D2’s beeps or Darth Vader’s breathing sounds.

Are the Star Wars earbuds compatible with all devices?

Yes, the earbuds support Bluetooth 5.3 and can connect to any Bluetooth-enabled device, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

Will the Star Wars-themed earbuds be available after the initial release?

These are limited edition earbuds, so availability may be restricted after the initial release. Fans are encouraged to pre-order early to secure their pair.