Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Headphones

Improving upon one of the most recommended entry-level headphones of all time, Audio-Technica took their well-regarded ATH-M50 and added more low-end response, less treble brightness, softer padding, and interchangeable cables. The result, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Headphones, is a sonic and structural upgrade poised to oust its older sibling from the headphone throne.

While Audio-Technica claims no marked sound improvements from the ATH-M50, Tyll Hertsens from Innerfidelity hears and measures otherwise. The TL;DR? The bass response has been improved, the peak reduced, and the presentation features less overall noise, eliminating the primary criticisms against the original. Noise isolation is a strong point of the M50x, giving you the isolation you need to enjoy music in noisier environments. The 45 mm drivers are well equipped to deliver a clear, balanced sound across musical genres, making the M50x a great headphone for personal listening as well as studio monitoring.

The padded ear cushions are fully sealed for ideal isolation and can swivel 180 degrees for one-ear monitoring, perfect for professional studio use or for those who are constantly on the go. With three interchangeable cables (two straight and one coiled) of varying lengths, the ATH-M50x offers flexibility for all users. It even works wonders on the road, as the headphones collapse for portability and stay cozy for hours. With plushier padding on the headband and ear cushions for your listening enjoyment, the ATH-M50X sounds great from a phone but shows significant improvement through a headphone amplifier. The flexible use case combined with the unmatched comfort make this a very compelling headphone indeed.