Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Review: The Industry Standard Studio Headphones

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x has achieved near-universal presence in studios, bedrooms, and professional productions worldwide. The balanced sound signature, excellent isolation, and practical features make them suitable for tracking, mixing reference, and everyday listening. At $149, the M50x represents exceptional value that has driven its industry-standard status.

Evolution from M50

The M50x refines the original M50 with detachable cables and updated cosmetics while maintaining the sound signature that made its predecessor successful. The removable cable addresses the original’s biggest practical weakness—cable failure no longer requires discarding otherwise functional headphones.

Three cable options ship with the M50x: a 1.2m straight cable, a 3m straight cable, and a 1.2-3m coiled cable. This flexibility suits different applications from portable use to studio work.

The “x” revision maintained the 45mm large-aperture drivers and acoustic tuning that established the M50’s reputation. Users familiar with the original M50 will find the M50x’s sound identical.

Sound Signature

The M50x delivers slightly enhanced bass and treble around a neutral midrange. This mild V-shape adds engagement and impact without compromising accuracy for monitoring applications.

Bass response extends deep with good control and definition. The low end satisfies without overwhelming the mix or masking midrange information. Electronic and hip-hop productions benefit from hearing bass content accurately.

The midrange remains honest and present. Vocals and instruments appear clearly without the recessed quality that heavily V-shaped headphones exhibit. Critical mixing decisions can be made with reasonable confidence.

High frequencies provide detail and air without harshness. The treble reveals mix elements without fatigue during extended sessions. The top end rolls off gently rather than extending flatly, adding smoothness.

Isolation Performance

The closed-back design provides excellent isolation for tracking applications. The circumaural earpads seal around the ears, preventing both sound leakage outward and ambient noise intrusion inward.

Tracking vocals with M50x headphones keeps click tracks and backing music from contaminating microphone recordings. The isolation proves adequate for most studio scenarios without requiring specialized high-isolation designs.

The isolation also benefits commuting and travel use. Environmental noise reduction allows lower listening volumes that protect hearing during extended use.

Comfort and Build Quality

The M50x provides good comfort for medium-length sessions, though marathon mixing may benefit from more plush designs like Beyerdynamic’s velour-padded options.

The earpads use protein leather material that provides adequate seal and moderate comfort. Replacement pads from third parties offer options for those wanting different materials or enhanced cushioning.

The headband padding distributes weight reasonably well, though some users report pressure on the crown during very long sessions. Individual head shape affects comfort significantly.

Build quality proves excellent for the price. The sturdy construction survives typical studio and portable use without issue. The folding design and included case facilitate transport.

Versatility Across Applications

The M50x’s popularity stems partly from its versatility. These headphones serve adequately across diverse applications where specialized tools might excel individually but require multiple purchases.

Tracking works well thanks to good isolation and clear sound. The slightly forward highs help vocalists hear themselves distinctly.

Mixing reference proves useful, particularly for checking low-end and transient detail. While not reference-flat like open-back alternatives, the M50x provides reliable feedback.

Casual listening and everyday use benefit from the engaging sound signature. The closed-back isolation suits noisy environments like public transport.

Comparison with Alternatives

The Sony MDR-7506 ($99) offers similar isolation with brighter, more forward sound at a lower price. Studios often choose between these two industry standards based on tonal preference.

The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro ($159) provides similar closed-back monitoring with different sound character and superior comfort from velour pads.

The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x ($99) delivers a flatter frequency response that some prefer for mixing, trading the M50x’s enhanced bass for neutrality.

Special Editions and Variants

Audio-Technica offers the M50x in various colors and limited editions beyond the standard black. White, metallic gray, and signature artist editions provide aesthetic options.

The ATH-M50xBT2 adds Bluetooth wireless capability while maintaining the wired option. The convenience suits commuters and casual use.

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The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is available at Guitar Center, Musician’s Friend, ProAudioStar, and Amazon with excellent availability.