Audio-Technica M50x - Review
When they first came out, these headphones were known as one of the best values for money in their class, but have they managed to hold onto that title? We take a closer look in our video review and this article.
The box includes
- M50x earbuds
- 1 1.8-meter cable
- 1 3-meter cable
- 1 3-meter coiled cable (with a mini-jack to jack adapter)
- 1 faux leather carrying case
- 1 user manual and warranty
One of the main differences between this model and its predecessor, the M40, is the interchangeable cable. Thanks to this feature, these headphones eliminate one of the main points of failure for most headphones, allowing you to replace just the cable if there’s a problem, as well as choose the one that best suits you and your needs.
There are a few minor drawbacks, notably the fact that only the coiled cable works with the DAC we tested (FocusRite Scarlett 2i4), even with an adapter. These are also “proprietary” cables, meaning we can only purchase replacements directly from Audio-Technica.
The headphones are primarily made of plastic with a metal frame that allows for size adjustment. The drivers are hinged and can be swiveled to lie flat or even folded for easy transport and storage in their carrying case. Despite the heavy use of plastic in their design, the headphones are well-built and seem sturdy enough to take with you without worry. The headband is padded, covered in faux leather, and flexible enough to remain comfortable even during extended use.
The foam pads on the drivers are well-padded, comfortable, and do a good job of blocking out external noise. Made from the same faux leather as the headband but in much closer contact with your skin, you may sweat due to the material’s direct, snug contact with the skin, which can be bothersome—especially in the summer—but since we have long hair on the team, it didn’t cause us any problems.
The sound signature is rich, with a slight emphasis on the bass. Often marketed for monitoring, they’re also perfect for everyday use and casual listening. However, fans of heavy bass should be aware that they won’t replace a pair of Beats.
Available for between €130 and €150 on Amazon, they’re still an excellent choice for audiophiles on a budget, even in 2017.
Bonus points: You can customize these earbuds a bit with skins, notably from Dbrand.