Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones, Black, Professional Grade, Critically Acclaimed, with Detachable Cable
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AI Verdict
A wired over-ear headphone with 45mm drivers and sound isolation, built for pro audio monitoring and engaging casual listening.
These headphones are a strong fit for studio work and casual listening where their detailed sound and durability shine. However, their V-shaped sound signature and comfort limitations during extended wear make them less ideal for critical mixing or all-day use. The lack of an integrated mic also restricts their use for modern mobile communication.
If you need a flatter frequency response for mixing or superior comfort for all-day wear, look for headphones with a more neutral sound profile and velour earpads.
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Pros
- Proprietary 45mm large aperture drivers deliver deep, accurate bass response and clear vocals.
- Robust construction with metal reinforcement at stress points ensures durability for daily use and travel.
- Detachable cables (three included: 3m straight, 1.2m straight, 1.2-3m coiled) enhance longevity and adaptability.
- Circumaural design contours around ears for sound isolation in loud environments.
- 90-degree swiveling earcups allow for easy one-ear monitoring.
- 38-ohm impedance means they achieve full volume and sound quality from most devices without an amplifier.
Cons
- V-shaped frequency response emphasizes bass and treble, making them less neutral for critical mixing or mastering.
- Earpads can cause ears to get warm and may lead to discomfort during extended listening sessions.
- Clamping force can feel tight out of the box, contributing to discomfort for some users.
- Passive sound isolation is insufficient for blocking low-frequency noises like engine rumble or mid-range chatter in noisy environments.
- No inline microphone or remote control on any of the included cables for calls or music management.
Dimension Scores
The 45mm drivers deliver exceptional clarity with deep, accurate bass and crisp treble, though the V-shaped tuning isn't perfectly neutral for critical tasks.
Sound isolation from the circumaural design helps, but it struggles to block bass and mid-range frequencies, making it insufficient for truly loud environments.
While improved padding exists, the clamping force and synthetic earpads can lead to warmth and discomfort during extended listening sessions.
These are wired headphones and do not have a battery.
Best For
- Studio monitoring and tracking where durability and sound isolation are prioritized.
- Casual listening to bass-heavy genres like EDM, rock, and hip-hop due to their punchy sound signature.
- Content creation like video editing or gaming where low-latency wired audio and clear stereo imaging are beneficial.
- Users needing a robust, portable headphone that can withstand frequent travel and use.
Not Recommended For
- Critical audio mixing and mastering that requires a flat, neutral frequency response.
- Long-haul flights or very noisy commutes where active noise cancellation is essential.
- Mobile phone calls or on-the-go music control due to the lack of an inline mic/remote.
- Users with larger ears or those sensitive to clamping force during extended wear.
Watch Out For
- The synthetic leather earpads often wear out and flake after a few years, requiring replacement for continued comfort and hygiene.
- Clamping force can be prominent initially, leading to pressure on the head and ears during listening sessions longer than 45 minutes.
- Despite the circumaural design, they don't block enough bass and mid-range noise to be effective in truly loud environments like a busy office or public transport.
- The absence of an inline microphone on any of the three detachable cables means you can't take calls without an external mic.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 700621457916 |
| ASIN | B00HVLUR86 |
| Brand | Audio-Technica |
| Color | Black |
| Style | Standard M50x |
| Units | 1.0 Count |
| Language | English, English, English, English |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Batteries | 1 AAAA batteries required. (included) |
| Impedance | 38 Ohms |
| Department | Musical Instruments |
| Generation | 2 |
| Model Name | M50x |
| Form Factor | Over Ear |
| Item Weight | 10.2 ounces |
| Sensitivity | 99 dB |
| Control Type | Volume Control |
| Manufacturer | Audio-Technica |
| Cable Feature | Detachable |
| Ear Placement | On Ear |
| Noise Control | Sound Isolation |
| Series Number | 50 |
| Control Method | App |
| Earpiece Shape | Around-the-ear |
| Headphones Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Special Feature | Foldable |
| Audio Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
| Item model number | ATH-M50x |
| Compatible Devices | Cell Phones, Tablets, Desktops, Laptops |
| Frequency Response | 28000 Hz |
| Hardware Interface | USB |
| Product Dimensions | 11.4 x 10 x 4.1 inches |
| Included Components | HEADPHONE |
| Customer Package Type | Standard Packaging |
| Input Device Interface | Audio jack |
| Noise Control Features | sound isolation |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Specific Uses For Product | personal |
| Supports Bluetooth Technology | No |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Wireless Communication Technology | wired |
What Buyers Say
Many users, especially those new to higher-end audio, praise the ATH-M50x for their engaging sound, particularly the punchy bass and clear highs, making them a popular choice for music enjoyment. However, a recurring complaint is the comfort during long sessions, with reports of ears getting warm and the clamping force feeling too tight. The durability of the build is frequently highlighted, with many owners reporting years of use, though the earpads are often the first component to show wear and require replacement. For critical audio professionals, the V-shaped sound signature is a point of contention, as it deviates from a neutral reference.
“Man, these things sound so good for my rock music, the bass just hits right, but after like two hours my ears are burning and my head feels squeezed, gotta take a break or something.”
Common Praise
- The bass response is deep, substantial, and controlled without overwhelming other frequencies.
- Vocals and instruments are clear and natural-sounding, providing good detail across the frequency range.
- The headphones are built like a tank, withstanding years of daily use and travel without performance issues.
- The inclusion of three detachable cables (coiled, long straight, short straight) offers flexibility for different setups.
- The 90-degree swiveling earcups are practical for one-ear monitoring, useful for DJs and producers.
Common Complaints
- Earpads get warm and can cause discomfort or sweating during listening sessions longer than an hour.
- The clamping force is often described as too tight, leading to pressure on the head and ears, especially for those with larger heads.
- The sound signature, while fun, is not neutral enough for accurate mixing or mastering, with mids sometimes getting lost.
- Noise isolation is only passive and doesn't effectively block out low-frequency or mid-range ambient noise in loud environments.
- The lack of an integrated microphone on any cable means they aren't convenient for phone calls or online meetings.
Ownership Tips
- After a year or two, the original synthetic leather earpads will likely start flaking and need to be replaced, often with third-party fabric options for better comfort.
- The coiled cable, while durable, can be heavy and pull on the headphones, which might affect comfort or placement.
- The initial tight clamping force does loosen up slightly over time with regular use, improving long-term comfort.
- Even with the improved padding, these headphones can still feel bulky and less breathable than some alternatives, especially in warmer climates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do these headphones require an amplifier?
No, with a 38-ohm impedance, the ATH-M50x will achieve full volume and good sound quality directly from most devices like phones or laptops.
Are the ATH-M50x suitable for gaming?
Yes, their wired connection provides zero-latency audio, and the detailed sound profile with clear stereo imaging can help with directional cues in games.
Do these headphones have a microphone for calls?
No, none of the three included detachable cables feature an inline microphone or remote control.
Are the earpads replaceable?
Yes, the earpads are replaceable, and many users recommend swapping them for fabric pads for a cooler, more breathable feel.
How is the sound isolation?
The circumaural design provides passive sound isolation by sealing around the ears, but it's not effective against low-frequency rumble or mid-range chatter in very noisy environments.
Buying Guide
When looking at headphones like these, you need to think about what you're actually going to use them for. If you're just listening to music and want it to sound exciting, a 'fun' sound signature with boosted bass and treble might be exactly what you want. But if you're trying to make music or edit audio, you need something that presents the sound as accurately as possible, without any boosts or cuts. Also, consider how long you'll wear them; comfort for short bursts is different from comfort for an 8-hour session.
Driver Type & Size (Dynamic Driver, 45mm)
The driver is like the speaker inside your headphone. A dynamic driver uses a moving coil to produce sound, which is common and often delivers powerful bass. The 45mm size indicates a larger driver, which can generally move more air and produce a fuller, more impactful sound, especially in the low frequencies.
Connectivity (Wired)
Wired headphones connect directly to your audio source with a cable. This means zero latency, which is crucial for things like music production or competitive gaming where even tiny delays can be disruptive. It also means no batteries to charge, but you're tethered to your device.
Noise Control (Sound Isolation)
Sound isolation means the physical design of the headphone (like how the earcups seal around your ears) blocks out external noise. It's passive, meaning no electronics are involved. This is different from active noise cancellation (ANC), which uses microphones and electronics to actively cancel out noise. Sound isolation is effective for higher frequencies but less so for low rumbles.
Alternatives
If you need a flatter, more neutral sound for professional mixing, look for headphones explicitly marketed as 'reference' or 'flat response' studio monitors. For superior comfort during long sessions, prioritize models with velour earpads and a lighter clamping force.
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