VSystem

Audio-Technica informs all users that a safety error has been reported affecting the ATH-CK3TW headphones charging box.

And since the company takes any such report very seriously, it was decided to replace all the charging boxes and withdraw the product from the market immediately.

The fault is related to a thermal track problem. It is reported that the charging box can heat up to the melting point, causing smoke to form, and then the box may be at risk of ignition. Fortunately, no damage was reported in any of the reported incidents. In addition, there is no case in which the box has caught fire or caused significant damage.

Although there are no reports of incidents in the European region or anywhere outside Japan, Audio-Technica wants to prevent any such incidents. As reported by the company: " The safety and wellbeing of all of our customers is paramount, and our fundamental priority".

 
If you own an ATH-CK3TW and want to check if your charging box needs to be replaced, follow the steps below:

1. Check the lot number printed on a sticker inside the lid of the charging case. If the number on this sticker ends in “B”, your charging case does NOT need to be recalled.
2. If you have a lot number sticker that does not end with the letter "B", or if you do not see any sticker with a lot number, your charging box must be returned and replaced. Audio-Technica guarantees that replacing the charging box will be an easy and free process for you.
3. Follow the link below in this article to sign up for the charging box replacement program completely free.

You will receive a new and safe charging case to enable you to continue enjoying your ATH-CK3TW truly wireless earbuds.

In case you have questions about the replacement of the charging box, Audio-Technica has taken care to answer in advance:

FAQ

Should I stop using my CK3TW even if I have not experienced any problems?
Yes. Although the actual CK3TW earbuds pose no risk, you should stop using the charge case with immediate effect – even if no problems have been experienced to date with it. Once Audio-Technica send you a free replacement charging case, you may continue to use and charge your complete product as before, without risk.

Does my charging case now pose a spontaneous fire risk and is it dangerous?
No. The charging case has only had the issue reported in the instance of being connected to power via the USB cable and whilst containing the earbuds inside the charging case. To stay safe, please do not place the charging case onto charge and remove your earbuds from the charge case

The lot number on my sticker has faded / been damaged, if it operates as expected can I assume that it had a lot number ending in a “B” and I do not need to return?
No. If you either do not have the lot number sticker present or cannot read the lot number anymore, please err on the side of caution and arrange for the return and replacement of your charging case as advised.

Will I need to send back my CK3TW earbuds as well as the charging case?
No. You do not need to send back or replace the CK3TW earbuds. Only the charging case is affected by the fault. Please keep the earbuds in a safe place until you receive the replacement charging case.

Will the replacement charging case be compatible with my CK3TW earbuds no matter how long ago I purchased them?
Yes. The replacement charging case will work with all CK3TW models.

I purchased my CK3TW from a retailer, do I need to return it to them to get my replacement case?
No. If you are based anywhere within the European Union or the UK, we can replace your charging case directly and completely free of charge.

Can I keep my CK3TW charging case as a spare if it has not experienced these issues?
No. We will require the return of the affected charging cases in order to issue your replacement. We are recalling these charging cases as an important safety measure. We want to ensure there is no risk to you when using any of our products. Therefore, we will not be able to allow you to keep one of the affected charging cases, even if no problems like the one reported have been experienced.

Which colours of the CK3TW are affected?
All colours are affected by this fault. The exact model numbers are:
ATH-CK3TWBK (Black)
ATH-CK3TWWH (White)
ATH-CK3TWBL (Blue)
ATH-CK3TWRD (Red)