Back in August I did a complete review of the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS which is basically this same headphone with an integrated boom microphone. For additional A-T headphone commentary check it out here on High on Technology.
INTRODUCTION
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones have been a mainstay in the audio world for well over a decade, earning a reputation as a go-to choice for professionals and casual listeners alike. With their reliable construction, versatile sound, and updated features, they continue to hold their own in 2025 against newer competitors and established brands like AKG and Beyerdynamic.
A LEGACY OF PERFORMANCE - meet the new, improved ATH-M50x
Launched as an evolution of the original ATH-M50, the ATH-M50x brings modern touches like detachable cables while preserving the qualities that made its predecessor a legend. These closed-back, over-ear headphones are designed for critical listening, offering a balance of clarity, bass response, and durability. Audio-Technica has built a reputation for delivering reliable, high-quality audio gear, and the ATH-M50x is no exception. Trusted by audio engineers, DJs, and music enthusiasts, these headphones remain a regular for pro users due to their versatility and professional performance.
DESIGN AND BUILD
The ATH-M50x sports a no-nonsense, professional look with a predominantly plastic body accented by metal headband adjustments. The design is functional rather than flashy, with a collapsible structure and 90-degree swiveling earcups that make them portable and ideal for one-ear monitoring. The earpads and headband are crafted from professional-grade materials, offering a balance of comfort and durability. While not the sleekest headphones on the market, their iconic aesthetic—complete with the signature metal ring around the Audio-Technica logo—remains instantly recognizable. The included vinyl carrying pouch protects against scratches, though it offers minimal impact resistance.
SOUND QUALITY
The ATH-M50x shines in delivering a sound signature that’s engaging yet precise. Powered by 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare-earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils, these headphones produce exceptional clarity across an extended frequency range. Thanks to their 38-ohm impedance the bass is deep, solid and accurate, avoiding the overpowering low-end found in some consumer headphones. Vocals and instruments come through with detailed precision, making these headphones suitable for a variety of genres, from rock to classical. They’re not perfectly flat, so purists seeking reference-grade neutrality might lean toward alternatives like the Sony MDR-7506 for mixing.
The soundstage is respectable for closed-back headphones, offering a sense of space that enhances the listening experience without rivaling open-back models. Isolation is a strong suit, thanks to the circumaural design that contours around the ears, effectively blocking ambient noise. This makes the ATH-M50x ideal for studio tracking, DJ monitoring, or listening in noisy environments.
COMFORT AND PRACTICALITY
Comfort has improved over the original ATH-M50. The ATH-M50x features relaxed clamping force and upgraded ear-cushion padding, reducing fatigue during long sessions. While ears may still get warm after extended use, the overall comfort level is excellent for closed-back headphones. The detachable cable system is a highlight, offering three high-quality cables (1.2m-3m coiled, 3m straight, and 1.2m straight) with a proprietary twist-lock connector. This versatility ensures compatibility with various setups, from studio desks to portable devices, though the proprietary connector may frustrate users seeking aftermarket cable options.
Specifications
|
FEATURES |
DETAILS |
|
Design |
Closed-back, over-ear, collapsible with 90° swiveling earcups |
|
Impedance |
38 ohms |
|
Sensitivity |
99 dB/mW |
|
Frequency Response |
15 Hz - 28 kHz |
|
Driver |
45mm dynamic drivers with rare-earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils |
|
Weight |
285g (without cable) - a little over half a pound |
|
Cable |
Detachable: 1.2m-3m coiled, 3m straight, 1.2m straight; 3.5mm jack with 6.3mm adapter |
|
Sound Signature |
Balanced with deep, accurate bass and clear mids/highs |
|
Sound Stage |
Moderate, suitable for closed-back design |
|
Isolation |
Excellent, with circumaural earpads for passive noise isolation |
|
Price - 2025 |
~$159 USD (varies by retailer) |
|
Best for |
Studio tracking, mixing, DJ monitoring, casual listening, gaming |
- Single side cable entry
- 38Ω impedance (no special amp needed)
- Removable and replaceable cable
- Full sound on all music
- Reliable performance, year after year
DISLIKES
- Folding mechanism makes noise during single-ear vocal tracking
- History of vinyl construction rotting
I store my headphones in steel drawers when they’re not in use. My studio is air conditioned and climate controlled, but still, the vinyl components on the original two sets I purchased back in 2010 have rotted and decomposed (though they still sound excellent). It’s a bummer when these excellent sounding headphones leave a shower of little black vinyl snow flakes all over my beautiful blond partner (or me ;-). It’s a manufacturing point that AT should address, possibly a trade-in program? Nothing in the new X version tells me they’ve addressed this rot problem -- I'm not alone in this -- I've consistently seen users on Forums complaining about this too.
Another gripe I have is all the folding, it makes these AT headphones feel clumsy and awkward to newer studio users who are trying to figure out how to put them on. The ATH-50 headphones have a tendency to fold up or do the twist when you’re trying to put them on. Watching a new user in my studio struggle with these leaves me wishing for a more single purpose design for pro studio use. The Beyerdynamic DT770 has a much more single purpose, solid and integrated steel headband, which eliminates all the twisting and folding. The Beyer don’t fold up into a tiny package for transporting like the ATH-M50X but the fluffy cushions and straight-forward construction of the Beyerdynamic models are what studio customers go for every time if given the opportunity to select for themselves.
EPILOGUE
In 2025, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x remains a quality choice for those seeking high-performance headphones priced well under $200. While they may not outshine classic models in style or cutting-edge features, their combination of reliability and excellent sound keeps them relevant. Whether you’re fine-tuning a mix, a DJ on the move, or a studio user, the ATH-M50x delivers consistent, reliable performance.
Thanks for reading High on Technology, GOOD MUSIC TO YOU!
©September 2025 by Mark King, It is NOT ok to copy or quote without written permission from the author.
ONE MORE THING
I always prefer listening to a good sounding set of speakers rather than listening on headphones. At my age I enjoy the extended range I hear using headphones but I never prefer that as a listening experience.
I've always looked at headphones as a tool to use when sound in the room needs to be controlled. I've listened to premium expensive headphones and regardless of price, I would never choose to wear or listen with headphones unless I needed to verify details in a mix or achieve isolation control.
Did you create anything beautiful today using headphones?