Audio-Technica ATH-M50x: A Comprehensive Guide

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is a popular choice for audiophiles and musicians alike, offering a balance of affordability, performance, and comfort. But with so many questions surrounding this beloved headphone, finding reliable information can be tricky. This comprehensive guide will delve into the most common questions surrounding the ATH-M50x, offering insights to help you make an informed decision.

Is the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Worth It?

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, often referred to as the M50x, is a highly regarded headphone that has garnered praise for its sonic performance, build quality, and affordability. Its value proposition makes it an enticing choice for both casual listeners and professionals alike. Whether it’s “worth it” ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities, but here are some compelling reasons why the M50x stands out:

• Exceptional Sound Quality: The M50x delivers a detailed and accurate sound signature, with a balanced frequency response that excels in reproducing a wide range of musical genres. The deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs provide a truly immersive listening experience.
• Durable Construction: Built with premium materials and a robust design, the M50x is known for its resilience and longevity. The sturdy construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of daily use, making it a reliable choice for frequent travelers and those who value durability.
• Comfortable Fit: The M50x features comfortable earcups that provide ample padding and a secure fit, minimizing ear fatigue even during extended listening sessions. The adjustable headband further enhances comfort by allowing you to customize the fit to your head size.
• Versatile Usage: The M50x is incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of applications, including music listening, studio recording, DJing, and gaming. Its versatility makes it a practical choice for anyone seeking a single headphone that can cater to various audio needs.
• Affordable Price: Considering its exceptional features and performance, the M50x offers an outstanding value proposition. Its relatively affordable price point makes it accessible to a wider audience, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious audiophiles.

While the M50x is undoubtedly a compelling headphone, it’s essential to consider your individual preferences and needs before making a purchase. Factors such as your preferred sound signature, comfort level, and usage scenario should be factored into your decision-making process.

Are Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Good for Gaming?

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is well-regarded for its audio quality and can indeed be an excellent choice for gaming. Here’s why:

• Immersive Soundstage: The M50x boasts a spacious soundstage that allows for accurate sound positioning, providing a more immersive gaming experience. You can clearly discern the direction of footsteps, gunfire, and other in-game sounds, enhancing your situational awareness and gameplay.
• Detailed Sound Reproduction: The headphones’ detailed sound reproduction captures the nuances of in-game audio, allowing you to hear subtle cues that can provide an advantage. From the rustle of leaves to the distant hum of engines, the M50x faithfully reproduces these details, creating a more realistic and engaging soundscape.
• Comfortable Fit: The comfortable fit of the M50x is crucial for extended gaming sessions. The earcups provide ample padding and a secure fit, minimizing ear fatigue and allowing you to focus on your gameplay without discomfort.
• Sound Isolation: The M50x provides excellent sound isolation, blocking out external noise and distractions. This is particularly beneficial for competitive gamers who need to focus on in-game audio and avoid distractions from their surroundings.
• Wide Frequency Response: The M50x’s wide frequency response accurately reproduces a wide range of sounds, from deep bass to high frequencies. This ensures that you can hear all the important audio cues in your games, regardless of genre.

However, it’s worth noting that the M50x’s closed-back design can sometimes lead to a slight sense of “claustrophobia” during extended gaming sessions. If you prefer an open-back design for a more airy feel, you might want to consider alternative options. But for those seeking a well-rounded and affordable gaming headphone with excellent sound quality, the M50x is a strong contender.

What Does ATH-M50x Mean?

The “ATH” in Audio-Technica ATH-M50x stands for Audio-Technica, the name of the Japanese audio electronics company that manufactures the headphones. The “M” stands for “monitor,” indicating that these headphones are designed for professional monitoring applications, such as studio recording and mixing. The “50x” refers to the specific model number within Audio-Technica’s M series of headphones.

The “x” in the model name signifies a particular iteration or revision of the original ATH-M50. The M50x is a later version of the ATH-M50, featuring minor improvements such as a slightly revised design, a detachable cable, and a new carrying case.

The “M50x” model number is a convenient way to identify this specific headphone within Audio-Technica’s product lineup and allows for quick identification and referencing.

Are Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Good for Music Production?

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is highly regarded for its accuracy and detail, making it a suitable choice for music production. Here’s why it’s a popular choice among producers:

• Flat Frequency Response: The M50x features a relatively flat frequency response, minimizing coloration and ensuring that you’re hearing the true sound of your mixes. This accuracy allows for more precise decision-making during the mixing and mastering stages.
• Detailed Sound Reproduction: The headphones’ ability to reproduce a wide range of frequencies with clarity allows you to discern the nuances of individual instruments and audio elements in your mixes. This detail provides a more accurate picture of your sonic landscape, enabling you to make informed adjustments.
• Comfortable Fit: The M50x’s comfortable fit is crucial for extended studio sessions. The earcups provide ample padding and a secure fit, minimizing ear fatigue and allowing you to focus on your work without discomfort.
• Durable Construction: The M50x is known for its robust construction, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of regular studio use. Its durability guarantees longevity and minimizes the risk of damage, making it a reliable choice for professionals.
• Affordable Price: The M50x offers an excellent value proposition for music producers. Its relatively affordable price point makes it accessible to a wider audience, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious professionals.

It’s important to note that the M50x’s sound signature might not be ideal for all genres of music production. If you specialize in genres that require a specific sound signature, such as bass-heavy genres, you might want to explore alternative headphones that cater to your specific needs. However, for general music production, the M50x’s accuracy and comfort make it a strong contender.

Are Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Good for Bass?

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x delivers impressive bass performance, providing a well-balanced and impactful low-end experience. Here’s a closer look at its bass capabilities:

• Deep and Tight Bass: The M50x produces a deep and tight bass response that is both punchy and controlled. The bass is well-defined and doesn’t overshadow the other frequencies, ensuring a balanced overall sound.
• Punchy and Engaging: The bass response is particularly engaging, adding depth and impact to tracks with heavy basslines. You can feel the vibrations of the low frequencies, creating a more immersive and impactful listening experience.
• Controlled and Accurate: The bass is well-controlled and doesn’t bleed into the other frequencies. This accuracy ensures that the bass remains clear and defined, even at high volumes, preventing muddiness or distortion.
• Suitable for Bass-Heavy Genres: The M50x’s impressive bass response makes it suitable for genres like electronic music, hip-hop, and rock, where a strong low-end is essential. It can handle bass-heavy tracks with ease, delivering a satisfying and punchy experience.

While the M50x’s bass response is undoubtedly impressive, it’s important to note that it might not be as deep or extended as some dedicated basshead headphones. However, for those seeking a well-rounded and balanced sound with impressive bass performance, the M50x is a solid choice.

Are Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Open or Closed Back?

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is a closed-back headphone. This means that the earcups completely seal around your ears, blocking out external noise and preventing sound from leaking out. Here’s a breakdown of the implications of a closed-back design:

• Sound Isolation: Closed-back headphones provide excellent sound isolation, effectively blocking out external noise and distractions. This makes them ideal for use in noisy environments, such as public transportation or busy offices, where you need to focus on your audio.
• Enhanced Bass Response: The closed-back design can also contribute to a more pronounced and powerful bass response. The sealed earcups create a more contained environment for the bass frequencies to resonate, resulting in a more impactful and punchy low-end.
• Privacy: Closed-back headphones offer a greater degree of privacy, preventing others from hearing your audio. This is particularly beneficial in public settings where you want to enjoy your music without disturbing others.
• Less Airy Soundstage: Compared to open-back headphones, closed-back headphones tend to have a slightly smaller and less airy soundstage. This can be perceived as a trade-off for the benefits of sound isolation and bass enhancement.

The closed-back design of the M50x makes it a versatile choice, suitable for various applications, including music listening, studio recording, and gaming. Its sound isolation capabilities are particularly beneficial in noisy environments, while its enhanced bass response contributes to a more impactful and enjoyable listening experience.

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Wireless

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is not inherently a wireless headphone. The original model was designed with a wired connection, offering a reliable and high-fidelity audio experience. However, there are several ways to enjoy wireless listening with the M50x:

• Bluetooth Adapter: You can utilize a Bluetooth adapter to connect the M50x to your devices wirelessly. This option offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to move around freely without the hassle of cables. However, it’s important to note that the adapter might introduce a slight delay in audio transmission, which could be noticeable during gaming or watching videos.
• Wireless DAC: Consider using a wireless DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) with a Bluetooth receiver. This setup provides a more high-fidelity wireless experience, minimizing audio degradation compared to a standard Bluetooth adapter. However, this option is often more expensive than using a simple adapter.
• Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT: Audio-Technica released a wireless version of the M50x, aptly named the ATH-M50xBT. This model incorporates Bluetooth technology directly into the headphones, providing a seamless wireless listening experience without the need for additional adapters. The M50xBT retains the iconic sound signature of the wired version, offering a comfortable and convenient wireless alternative.

The choice between wired and wireless ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenario. If you prioritize portability and convenience, a wireless solution might be more appealing. However, if you seek the highest fidelity audio experience and don’t mind the limitations of a wired connection, the original M50x remains a compelling choice.

What is the Impedance of Audio-Technica ATH-M50x?

The impedance of the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is 38 ohms. Impedance is a measure of a headphone’s resistance to electrical current. A lower impedance generally indicates that the headphones require less power to drive, making them compatible with a wider range of devices.

The M50x’s 38-ohm impedance means that it can be driven effectively by most smartphones, tablets, laptops, and portable audio players. However, it’s worth noting that higher-impedance headphones can often benefit from a dedicated headphone amplifier, which provides more power and can result in a louder and more detailed sound.

How to Choose the Right Headphones for You

Choosing the right headphones can be overwhelming, with countless options available in the market. Here are some key considerations to guide your selection process:

• Usage Scenario: Consider how you plan to use the headphones. Are you primarily listening to music, watching movies, gaming, or using them for studio work? This will help narrow down the options and focus on headphones that cater to your specific needs.
• Sound Signature: Determine your preferred sound signature. Do you enjoy a balanced sound, with emphasis on bass, treble, or a combination of both? Consider your listening preferences and the genres of music you primarily enjoy.
• Comfort: The comfort of the headphones is crucial for extended listening sessions. Look for headphones with comfortable earcups, a secure fit, and adjustable headband to ensure long-term wearing comfort.
• Budget: Set a budget before you start shopping. Headphones range in price from affordable to high-end, so it’s important to determine a realistic price range that fits your financial constraints.
• Features: Consider additional features that might be important to you, such as noise cancellation, wireless connectivity, or microphone availability. These features can enhance the user experience and meet specific needs.

Conclusion

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is a versatile and high-performing headphone that offers an impressive balance of affordability, sound quality, and comfort. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, while its robust construction ensures longevity and reliability. Whether you’re a casual listener, a music producer, or a gamer, the M50x is a compelling choice for those seeking a well-rounded and affordable audio solution.

FAQ

What is the difference between the ATH-M50x and the ATH-M50?

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is an updated version of the original ATH-M50. The M50x features several key improvements over its predecessor, including:

• Detachable Cable: The M50x comes with a detachable cable, providing greater flexibility and allowing for easy cable replacement if needed. The original M50 had a fixed cable.
• Revised Design: The M50x features a slightly revised design, including updated earcups and headband, enhancing comfort and aesthetics. The original M50 had a slightly different design.
• New Carrying Case: The M50x includes a new and improved carrying case, providing better protection for the headphones during transport. The original M50 came with a basic carrying pouch.

In terms of sound quality, both headphones offer a similar sonic performance. The M50x might have slightly more pronounced bass and slightly improved detail, but the differences are subtle and not significant for most listeners.

How long do Audio-Technica ATH-M50x last?

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is known for its durable construction and can last for many years with proper care. The robust design, premium materials, and detachable cable contribute to its longevity. It’s estimated that with regular maintenance and careful use, the M50x can last for 5 to 10 years or even longer.

Can I use Audio-Technica ATH-M50x without an amp?

Yes, you can use the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x without a dedicated headphone amplifier. Its 38-ohm impedance makes it compatible with most smartphones, tablets, laptops, and portable audio players. However, using a headphone amplifier can provide a louder and more detailed sound, especially for high-impedance headphones.

What are the best alternatives to Audio-Technica ATH-M50x?

Several excellent headphones compete with the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x. Here are some notable alternatives:

• Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro: Known for its exceptional sound quality and durable construction, the DT 770 Pro offers a slightly warmer sound signature with powerful bass and detailed treble.
• Sennheiser HD 280 Pro: Offering excellent sound isolation and a comfortable fit, the HD 280 Pro is a popular choice for studio recording and mixing, known for its balanced sound and accurate reproduction.
• AKG K240 Studio: With a spacious soundstage and a comfortable fit, the K240 Studio is a good choice for music listening and studio work, offering a balanced sound with a focus on detail and accuracy.

Are Audio-Technica ATH-M50x better than Sennheiser HD 280 Pro?

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x and Sennheiser HD 280 Pro are both excellent headphones with different strengths and weaknesses. The M50x generally offers a more engaging sound with a more pronounced bass response, while the HD 280 Pro provides a more accurate and detailed sound signature with superior sound isolation.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual preferences and needs. If you prioritize bass impact and a more engaging sound, the M50x might be a better choice. However, if you value accuracy, detail, and sound isolation, the HD 280 Pro might be a better fit.

Can I use Audio-Technica ATH-M50x for phone calls?

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x does not come with a built-in microphone. Therefore, it’s not designed for phone calls or voice communication. If you need a headphone with a microphone for phone calls or online meetings, you’ll need to choose a model with a built-in microphone or consider using a separate microphone with your existing headphones.

How to clean Audio-Technica ATH-M50x?

Here are some tips for cleaning your Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones:

• Use a microfiber cloth: Gently wipe the earcups, headband, and cable with a soft microfiber cloth to remove dust, dirt, and fingerprints. Avoid using harsh cleaning products or abrasive materials that could damage the surface.
• Clean earcups with cotton swabs: Use cotton swabs dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the inside of the earcups and remove any buildup of earwax or debris. Be careful not to push the cotton swabs too far into the earcups.
• Clean the cable: Wipe the cable with a damp microfiber cloth to remove any dirt or grime. Avoid getting the cable wet or submerging it in water.
• Air dry completely: After cleaning, allow the headphones to air dry completely before storing them. Avoid using heat sources to dry the headphones as this can damage the materials.

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Summary Table

Feature	Description
Sound Signature	Balanced with a slightly pronounced bass
Impedance	38 ohms
Frequency Response	15Hz – 28kHz
Sensitivity	99dB
Cable	Detachable, 1.2m (3.9ft)
Weight	280g (9.9 oz)
Design	Closed-back, circumaural
Build Quality	Durable and robust
Comfort	Comfortable for extended use
Price	Affordable for its performance