Featured product
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
by Audio-Technica
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Why it has stayed popular
The ATH-M50x has been a mainstay in studios, DJ booths, and audiophile setups for years thanks to its energetic, detailed sound and rugged build. Its foldable design, detachable cables, and reputation as a reference monitoring headphone have made it a consistent favorite.
Who It Fits
The ATH-M50x is a strong match for anyone who wants accurate, lively sound without relying on batteries or wireless connectivity. It appeals to home studio producers, podcasters, and DJs who need to hear fine details in their recordings, as well as travelers and commuters who prefer a wired, closed-back design that blocks outside noise passively. If you value a punchy low-end and crisp highs over a perfectly neutral curve, this model's tuning will likely suit your taste. It's also practical for people who want a durable, foldable headphone that can survive daily commutes or being tossed into a bag between sessions. For listeners who prioritize simplicity—no charging, no pairing, no app updates—a dependable wired headphone like this remains hard to beat.
What to Weigh Before Buying
Before committing, consider that the ATH-M50x is a closed-back, over-ear headphone with a fairly firm clamping force, which helps isolation but can feel fatiguing during long listening sessions. The earpads are replaceable, but the stock pads can get warm, and some users swap them for aftermarket options to improve comfort. Sound-wise, the signature leans toward boosted bass and treble, which is exciting for music but not ideal if you need clinical neutrality for mixing. The cable is detachable and ships with multiple options, but the headphone has no active noise cancellation or wireless functionality. If you need Bluetooth or ANC, this isn't the right pick. Also note that the earcups swivel and fold, but the overall look is utilitarian rather than lifestyle-oriented.
Alternatives to Consider
If the ATH-M50x doesn't feel right, a few alternatives cover similar ground. The Sony MDR-7506 is a long-standing studio favorite with a brighter, more neutral presentation and a lighter build, though its comfort and bass impact differ. The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro offers a wider soundstage and very comfortable velour pads, but it comes with a non-detachable cable and higher impedance that may benefit from a dedicated amplifier. For those who want wireless convenience, well-known options from Sony and Bose provide active noise cancellation and Bluetooth, albeit at a different price tier and with a different sound character. Each alternative trades something—neutrality, comfort, portability, or features—against what the M50x delivers, so the right choice depends on which compromises you can live with.
Frequently asked questions
Are the ATH-M50x headphones good for mixing?
They can work for tracking and reference listening, but their V-shaped sound signature emphasizes bass and treble rather than presenting a perfectly flat response. Many engineers use them alongside other monitors rather than as a sole mixing tool.
Do they need an amplifier?
Their impedance is low enough to be driven by most phones and laptops without a dedicated amp. A portable DAC or amplifier can refine the sound, but it isn't required for everyday listening at comfortable volumes.
Can I replace the earpads?
Yes, the earpads are removable, and a variety of aftermarket pads are available. Changing pads can alter sound slightly, so many users experiment to find a balance between long-term comfort and the tonal balance they prefer.
