Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Headphones

Rtings.com highlights the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x as sturdy, well-built closed-back headphones favored in professional and home settings, with a comfortable fit and detachable cables enhancing versatility. However, the review expresses clear reservations about their performance in active or noisy environments, noting poor noise isolation, audio leakage at higher volumes, and a bulky design that limits suitability for sports, travel, and office use. The wired-only connectivity and lack of integrated microphone or in-line controls further restrict convenience. Sonically, the ATH-M50x delivers a generally balanced sound profile with strong midrange and treble accuracy, though bass response suffers from inconsistency due to the rigid headband and earcup fit, causing channel mismatches and phase cancellations that affect transient clarity. While the headphones excel in harmonic distortion and durability, the stiff ear padding and mediocre frequency response consistency temper enthusiasm. Overall, the review offers a nuanced, moderately positive assessment, praising build quality and sound clarity but emphasizing practical limitations and fit-related audio inconsistencies.

Len Porcano assesses the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x as a worthy evolution of a legendary headphone, praising its improved bass response and reduced treble harshness compared to the original ATH-M50. While technical measurements show only moderate changes, Porcano’s listening tests and detailed teardown reveal subtle but meaningful refinements, especially in the ear pads and damping materials. The ATH-M50x delivers a mildly warm, well-balanced sound with tight bass, slightly recessed mids, and clear, lively treble, though it lacks the refinement of higher-end models. Its dynamics and imaging are strong, making it enjoyable for long listening sessions. Porcano highlights the headphone’s comfort, isolation, and versatility, recommending it for students, enthusiasts, and professionals who don’t require top-tier audiophile precision. Despite minor tonal trade-offs, the ATH-M50x secures its place among the best in its price range, earning a heartfelt endorsement as a refreshed classic that will remain beloved by the headphone community.

Jasper Lastoria from SoundGuys highlights that the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x remains a solid choice for casual listening and audio production despite its age. Praised for its well-built, foldable design and good overall sound quality, the headphones offer versatility with three included proprietary cables, though this connection system is seen as somewhat inconvenient compared to newer models. The ATH-M50x delivers a balanced, studio-style sound profile with a slight under-emphasis in bass and some midrange frequencies, making it suitable for both casual users and budding audio engineers. Comfort is generally adequate, though glasses wearers may find the fit less ideal. While lacking active noise cancellation and water resistance, the headphones provide reliable passive isolation and durable construction. Compared to newer or wireless siblings, the ATH-M50x feels like an “awkward sibling” but still holds value for those seeking dependable wired performance at a reasonable price.

Tim Gideon from PCMag highlights the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones as a reliable, well-balanced choice for both home and professional studio use. Praising their accurate and natural sound signature, he emphasizes the headphones’ ability to deliver deep, distortion-free bass without sacrificing clarity in the mids and highs. The review appreciates the comfortable, secure over-ear fit and the practical inclusion of three detachable cables, catering to various use cases. While the plasticky build is noted as a minor drawback, the ATH-M50x stands out for its neutral, uncolored sound that suits critical listening and mix checking rather than bass-boosted casual listening. Gideon’s detailed testing across diverse music genres reveals the headphones’ strength in faithfully reproducing complex mixes, making them an excellent middle ground between budget and premium studio headphones. Overall, the review conveys a measured but positive enthusiasm, recommending the ATH-M50x especially for users seeking accuracy and versatility in a wired studio headphone.

David Carnoy from CNET highlights the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones as a modest but meaningful upgrade to the already highly regarded ATH-M50 model, delivering some of the best sound quality available under $200. Praising their accurate tonal balance, spacious stereo imaging, and dynamic impact, Carnoy notes the ATH-M50x offers clearer, more detailed bass, midrange, and treble compared to its predecessor. The review emphasizes the sturdy build, improved earcup padding, and versatile detachable cables, though it points out the notable absence of an inline microphone and remote—a feature many users might expect for on-the-go use. While heavier and lacking active noise cancellation, the headphones provide effective passive isolation and a comfortable fit for studio or casual listening. Carnoy also compares them favorably against competitors like the V-Moda M-100, underscoring the ATH-M50x’s fuller, more accurate sound across genres. Overall, the review conveys a very positive, slightly measured enthusiasm, balancing minor drawbacks with strong performance and value.

Andrew Williams from TechRadar highlights the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X as a lively, engaging pair of wired headphones that deliver powerful bass and a vibrant soundstage, making them especially appealing for electronic and pulse-driven music fans. While not aiming for the ultra-neutral sound expected of professional studio monitors, these headphones strike a balance between professional and consumer use, offering durability, foldability, and practical features like multiple cables for versatile use. Williams notes their chunky, industrial design and synthetic leather pads, which may cause ear warmth over extended wear. The lack of wireless connectivity, active noise cancellation, and in-line controls are clear limitations, as is their modest noise isolation. Compared to competitors like the Sennheiser Momentum 2.0, the ATH-M50X sound brighter and more energetic but less tonally precise in vocals. Overall, Williams regards them as a fun, affordable option for listeners prioritizing impactful sound over clinical neutrality, with enduring value despite a shifting headphone market.

Michael Calore from WIRED highlights the enduring appeal of the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones, praising them as the “Cadillac of headphones” and a long-standing favorite for office use, DJing, and music production. He emphasizes their comfort, durability, and benchmark sound quality, noting that the M50x retains the acclaimed audio profile of its predecessor while adding practical upgrades like detachable cables and multiple cable options for versatile use. Calore appreciates the modest improvements in padding and color choices but stresses that the core sound remains unchanged, which is a positive for longtime fans. He also points out the competitive pricing, making the M50x a great value. While acknowledging the headphones’ larger size and price may not suit everyone, he recommends the M50x as the best in Audio-Technica’s lineup, with alternatives for budget-conscious buyers. For existing M50 owners, he suggests upgrading only if detachable cables or worn earpads are a concern, offering practical advice on extending the headphones’ lifespan.

Sam Inglis from SOUND ON SOUND highlights the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x as a thoughtful evolution of a long-standing studio favorite. Praising its lightweight comfort, effective isolation, and competitive pricing, Inglis notes subtle but meaningful improvements over the original M50, particularly the introduction of a removable, locking cable and refined earpads that enhance comfort slightly. Sonically, the M50x maintains the familiar “scooped” sound signature with a gentle bass emphasis and a brighter, more open treble that avoids harshness, making it well-suited for general studio use. While not as revealing as open-back headphones or as isolating as some rivals like the Sennheiser HD25-II, the M50x strikes a solid balance of performance and value. Inglis also provides valuable context by comparing the entire x-series lineup, emphasizing the excellent value of the M20x and M40x models. Overall, the review conveys measured enthusiasm, recognizing the M50x as a reliable, incremental upgrade that respects its heritage while addressing user feedback.

Daniel Griffiths from MusicRadar highlights the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x as a thoughtful evolution of the popular M50 headphones, emphasizing its improved clarity, deeper bass, and enhanced midrange definition. While the design remains largely unchanged, the addition of a removable cable adds practical value, especially for DJs who appreciate the swiveling ear cups. Griffiths notes that the M50x handles dense electronic music with greater clarity and airiness compared to its predecessor, making it a more confident choice for mixing. Although the M50x comes at a higher price point than the original M50, which is now more affordable, the upgrade is deemed worthwhile for those seeking better performance. For budget-conscious buyers, the M40x or older M50 models remain viable alternatives. Overall, the review conveys a positive and measured enthusiasm, recognizing the M50x as a refined, professional-grade headphone that justifies its premium.

Andy Hong from Tape Op praises the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones for their exceptional clarity, smooth midrange, and well-balanced bass that avoids the excesses common in lifestyle headphones. He highlights the slight high-frequency accentuation that aids vocal work without harshness, making the ATH-M50x a trusted tool for tracking and mixing that translates well across playback systems. The review emphasizes practical improvements over the original ATH-M50, such as the inclusion of three detachable cables and durable, comfortable earpads. While the ATH-M70x is also reviewed, Hong notes its more pronounced “scooped” sound signature with emphasized highs, which may not suit all listeners, contrasting it with the ATH-M50x’s more neutral response. Unique insights include detailed frequency response observations and real-world usability notes, such as cable locking and earpad replacement ease. Overall, Hong regards the ATH-M50x as an affordable, reliable professional reference headphone, especially for those seeking accuracy without sacrificing comfort or durability.