Audio-Technica ATH-M50XBT2 Wireless Headphones, Black
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AI Verdict
These are 1-pound wireless over-ear headphones with 45mm drivers and 50 hours of battery, best for home listening if you prioritize sound over effective noise cancellation.
These headphones are a situational fit because while they offer 50 hours of battery life and the acclaimed M50x sound for home use, their 1-pound weight and ineffective noise cancellation limit their utility for travel or noisy environments. The tight clamping force and earpad issues also impact long-term comfort for some users.
If you need effective noise cancellation for travel or office use, look for headphones with dedicated, highly-rated active noise cancellation systems, not just passive isolation.
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Pros
- The 45mm dynamic drivers deliver the same sonic performance as the original ATH-M50x studio headphones, which many users find accurate and detailed.
- You get up to 50 hours of listening time on a full charge, with a rapid charge feature providing 3 hours of use from a 10-minute plug-in.
- The build is described by users as "Super Duper durable" and "tanks," with metal reinforcement in the headband and ear cup hinges.
- Multipoint pairing allows connection to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously, which is convenient for switching between a phone and computer.
- Dual microphones with beamforming technology provide clear call quality.
- The earcups rotate and the headphones fold up for compact storage, making them easier to transport.
Cons
- Despite the spec sheet, users report that the active noise cancellation is ineffective, with poor noise isolation in noisy environments like commutes.
- The clamping force is tight for some users, and the earcups can cause warmth after extended use.
- The earpads are reported to be rough and prone to peeling and wearing away over time, sometimes worse than older models.
- Multipoint pairing can be unreliable, with users experiencing automatic disconnections during calls, refusal to pair, and audio combining from both devices.
- The 3.5mm audio jack may not work correctly with standard cables, often resulting in mono sound or requiring constant pressure to maintain connection.
Dimension Scores
The 45mm dynamic drivers deliver the critically acclaimed sonic signature of the M50x, providing accurate and detailed audio reproduction.
Despite the 'Active Noise Cancellation' spec, user reviews consistently report poor noise isolation, making them ineffective in noisy environments.
The 1-pound weight and tight clamping force can lead to discomfort and warmth during extended use, and the earpads are prone to peeling.
With up to 50 hours of battery life and a rapid charge feature providing 3 hours from 10 minutes, these headphones offer exceptional endurance.
Best For
- Critical listening at home or in a quiet studio environment, leveraging the 45mm drivers for detailed audio reproduction.
- Extended listening sessions, thanks to the 50-hour battery life.
- Users who frequently switch between two Bluetooth devices for audio, despite potential pairing quirks.
- Individuals prioritizing a durable build that can withstand regular handling.
Not Recommended For
- Daily commuting or travel in noisy environments, as the noise isolation is poor and ANC is ineffective.
- Active use like gym workouts, due to the 1-pound weight, potential wobbling, and lack of sweat resistance.
- Users who rely on a flawless, seamless multipoint connection for calls and media switching.
Watch Out For
- The multipoint pairing feature is buggy; users report automatic disconnections during calls, refusal to pair, and audio from both connected devices combining unexpectedly.
- Earpads are a common complaint, with reports of them being rough, peeling, and wearing out quickly, sometimes within months of use.
- The 3.5mm wired connection can be problematic; standard auxiliary cables often don't fully seat in the jack, leading to mono sound or requiring manual pressure to work.
- Despite being listed with 'Active Noise Cancellation' in specs, user experience confirms it offers poor noise isolation, making them unsuitable for noisy public spaces.
- The headband and earcup materials can degrade over time, with some users reporting the faux leather wearing away after a couple of years.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B09BYFHL25 |
| Size | One-Size |
| Brand | Audio-Technica |
| Color | Black |
| Style | Standard M50xBT2 |
| Units | 1 Count |
| Material | Leather |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included) |
| Impedance | 38 Ohms |
| Color Name | Black |
| Generation | 2 |
| Model Name | M50xBT2 |
| Form Factor | Over Ear |
| Item Weight | 1 pounds |
| Battery Life | 50 Hours |
| Battery type | Alkaline |
| Control Type | Voice Control |
| Manufacturer | Audio-Technica |
| Cable Feature | Without Cable |
| Charging Time | 3.5 Hours |
| Ear Placement | Over Ear |
| Material Type | Leather |
| Noise Control | Active Noise Cancellation |
| Series Number | 50 |
| Connector Type | wireless |
| Control Method | Voice |
| Earpiece Shape | Round |
| Bluetooth Range | 10 Meters |
| Headphones Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Special Feature | Microphone Included, USB connectivity, wireless |
| Audio Driver Size | 45 Millimeters |
| Audio Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.0 |
| Hardware Platform | PC/Tablet |
| Item model number | ATH-M50X |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphone |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz |
| Hardware Interface | Bluetooth, USB |
| Included Components | USB charging cable (30cm USB Type-A / USB Type-C), Audio cable (1.2m/ f3.5mm stereo mini-plug), Pouch |
| Carrying Case Weight | 454 Grams |
| Computer Memory Type | DIMM |
| Carrying Case Material | Pouch |
| Input Device Interface | USB, Bluetooth |
| Noise Control Features | passive_noise_cancellation |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Connectivity Technology | USB, Wireless |
| Specific Uses For Product | Movies and Gaming, Professional, Studio |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Calling, Gaming |
| Supports Bluetooth Technology | Yes |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Wireless Communication Technology | Bluetooth |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 04961310156183 |
What Buyers Say
The biggest surprise here is how many users report the 'Active Noise Cancellation' is basically non-existent, making these a poor choice for noisy commutes despite the spec sheet. Many users praise the sound, noting it lives up to the M50x legacy with clear audio and punchy bass from the 45mm drivers. However, the multipoint pairing is a consistent source of frustration, with frequent disconnections and pairing issues. The earpads are also a recurring complaint, often peeling or wearing out quickly.
“Man, I bought these thinking I'd finally get that M50x sound wirelessly with some ANC for my commute, but the 'ANC' is a joke and the multipoint pairing makes me want to throw them across the room when it glitches out during a call. Sound's still killer though, if you're just chilling at home.”
Common Praise
- The sound signature is clear and detailed, especially when paired with a good DAC or using LDAC codec.
- Battery life is exceptionally long, with users reporting 50+ hours of use on a single charge.
- The build quality is robust, with many users calling them "tanks" that withstand years of use.
- The ability to fold them up compactly is appreciated for storage and portability.
- Call quality is clear due to the dual mics and beamforming technology.
Common Complaints
- The active noise cancellation is ineffective, with outside noise easily audible in busy environments.
- Multipoint pairing is unreliable, leading to dropped calls, connection failures, and audio mixing from multiple sources.
- The earpads are prone to peeling and deteriorating quickly, often requiring third-party replacements.
- The clamping force is too tight for some, causing discomfort and ear warmth during extended wear.
- The 3.5mm wired connection is finicky, often not working with standard cables or only providing mono sound.
Ownership Tips
- After a few months, the stock earpads started showing signs of wear and peeling, making me look for aftermarket replacements.
- The tight clamping force eased up a bit after a few weeks of consistent use, but they still get warm around the ears during long sessions.
- I found myself mostly using them wired at my desk because the Bluetooth multipoint was too frustrating for reliable work calls.
- The passive noise isolation is barely enough to block out office chatter, definitely not subway noise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do these headphones have Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)?
While the product specs list 'Active Noise Cancellation', user feedback consistently indicates that the noise isolation is poor and the ANC is largely ineffective, especially in loud environments like commutes.
What is the battery life like?
You can expect up to 50 hours of continuous playback on a full charge. A quick 10-minute charge can provide up to 3 hours of listening time.
Can I connect these to multiple devices at once?
Yes, they support multipoint pairing, allowing you to connect to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. However, some users report issues with stability and switching between devices.
Are they comfortable for long listening sessions?
Comfort is mixed; some users find them comfortable, but others report a tight clamping force and warmth around the ears after extended use. The earpads are also noted to degrade over time.
How is the sound quality compared to the wired M50x?
Audio-Technica states the wireless design delivers the same sonic performance as the original ATH-M50x, featuring proprietary 45mm drivers for deep, accurate bass and clarity.
Buying Guide
When looking at headphones like these, you need to decide if you're buying for pure sound quality or for features like effective noise cancellation. These prioritize sound, using 45mm drivers to deliver a detailed audio experience. Don't assume 'Active Noise Cancellation' in the specs means it will block out a noisy train; user experience says it won't. Also, consider if you're okay with potentially replacing earpads down the line.
45mm Dynamic Drivers
50 Hours Battery Life
Multipoint Pairing
Alternatives
If these don't fit, look for headphones with a higher-rated active noise cancellation system for commuting, or a lighter design with softer earpads for extended comfort.
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