These big, bold headphones are very different to the ones I normally use, but are they any good? In this Audio Technica ATH-M50x review we look at everything that makes these a popular option for DJs around the world. Let’s find out.
Product Overview
As soon as you open the box and take them out, the quality stands out. They are large headphones with extensive padding and large hinges. That makes them robust, ready for anything, but at 285 grams, are twice the weight of the Sennheiser HD25s I am used to. They do look like a professional piece of kit though, and once you get over that extra weight, they begin to make sense.
Put them on and they feel great, the thick padding makes them very comfortable, but also acts to isolate you from outside noise too. Not as much as a noise cancelling system, but enough to help in really noisy environments. Playing some music, the thing I notice most is the bass, its punchy and powerful, which given the large drivers is something I expected.
But that bass doesn’t really overpower, the sound has a nice balance to it, and remains clear even at higher volumes. I like what they deliver, although I do think they don’t quite have the detail to match my HD25s. The weight isn’t an issue I thought it might be either, they are very comfortable even for longer sessions. You never forget they are there, like you can with lighter headphones though. They can be a little sweaty too, but maybe that is worth it for the robust construction? That’s one for you to decide.
Audio Technica ATH-M50x
Key Features
Audio Technica ATH-M50x: A User Experience Review (The Good)
From the large size to the overengineered hinges, everything about the Audio Technica ATH MX50x is built to last. They are everything you want in headphones being used on the road, where knocks are inevitable. No matter how careful you are, your gear will take a beating over time, and these will keep going, whatever you do.
While it doesn’t dominate the sound, the bass is the thing you immediately notice when listening with the Audio Technica ATH MX50x. It never distorts, but the power always brings those low frequencies to life.
These headphones can play loud. This can make all the difference if you are playing in a noisy environment, you can always hear the sound clearly even when monitoring with the other earcup rotated, it makes your job a lot easier.
Audio Technica ATH-M50x: A User Experience Review (The Bad)
The way the wiring works, there is a small difference between volume levels in the left and right earcup. Its probably no more than 3 decibels, and for most of us is not a problem. However, if you have especially sensitive hearing, it may be a distraction and something that makes you look for an alternative.
These are big headphones with thick pads on the earcups. This makes them very comfortable and even adds a little noise isolation. But if you have a wider head, that extra thickness in the padding does mean they can be very tight when worn.
Alternatives
For a similar price, the AIAIAI TMA-2 DJ, or the market leading Sennheiser HD 25s are worth a look. The AIAIAI headphones have a very innovative modular design that offers incredible flexibility, while the Sennheiser’s are renowned for their sound quality and impressive usability.
Image
Headphone Name
Price
AIAIAI TMA-2
Sennheiser HD 25
Verdict
With its great sound and excellent comfort, the Audio Technica ATH-M50Xs are a great option at a great price. However, it is the little details that really set them apart while I was using them. Both earcups have a built-in swivel for easy rotation, so you can monitor with whatever ear you prefer with ease.
I liked the detachable cable too, you can customize these headphones to meet your needs and damaging a cable won’t mean new headphones. They even include three different cables, one curly and two straight to choose from.
They look and feel great, with a lovely sound profile. If they fit your head, they are excellent.
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