ATH-M50X vs M50 – Which One To Buy?

ATH-M50X vs M50 – Which One To Buy?

Ever since the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X came out, people have been asking whether or they should buy the ATH-M50X vs M50. And for those people who already own a pair of the older M50, whether or not it is worth it to upgrade. Before we answer that question, it is important to establish the differences between the two headphones. The ATH-M50 was already a great headphone that was very popular for all types of consumers, so it was clearly well engineered by Audio-Technica. It got to the point where people started to compare the ATH-M50 to all different types of headphones, and recommending it for all types of scenarios. Being the great headphone that the ATH-M50 was, it was not very versatile, especially with its long and chunky cables, which was not suitable for portable use. Audio-Technica realized what was going on, and decided to give consumers a revision of the ATH-M50, that being the ATH-M50X. Basically, it’s the exact same headphone but with upgraded headband and ear pad materials, but most importantly, with detachable cables. The headphone’s design and sound signature have pretty much stayed the same, which isn’t a bad thing because the design was practical and the sound was brilliant. So instead of choosing to buy a long coiled cable version or a long straight cable version, the ATH-M50X comes with 3 cables out of the box – a 3m straight cable, a 1.2m coiled cable, and a 1.2m straight cable. So going back to before, is it worth it to get the ATH-M50X? Although the upgraded and softer headband and ear pad materials are nice, you...

Audio-Technica ATH M50X

The ATH-M50’s have long been revered as some of the best studio headphones money can buy, considering their low price. The sound was perfect for studio monitoring, DJ-ing, listening to music on your portable device, and almost anything you can think of. While that’s not something too many can argue with, the only thing that could knock the M50’s off their throne was a newer model, the ATH M50x. People really wished the M50 featured shorter and detachable cables for portable use. Audio-Technica listened and delivered. With the “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” approach, the ATH M50x retains the same sound signature people know and love from the M50s. The earpads and headband now feature a softer and more comfortable material than the M50s resulting in a more comfortable headphone. The headphone now comes with 3 cables, all featuring a 2.5mm locking mechanism. A 3m straight cable, a 1.2m coiled cable, and a 1.2m straight cable, optimized for portable use. Audio-Technica never made any claims to change the sound quality, so with tight controlled bass as well as vivid mids and highs, the ATH M50x still provides the clarity that is suitable for studio monitors as well as enthusiasts. Having truly earned their place as one of the world’s TOP studio headphones, you wouldn’t be surprised if these headphones cost 300-400 dollars. But at only $169.99, they are a total steal considering how much value these give for your...
Audio Technica ATH-M50x Review and Overview

Audio Technica ATH-M50x Review and Overview

A Classic, Redefined – Audio Technica Ath-M50x Review The Audio-Technica M-Series for years now had been known in the audio industry as both a work horse and a leader in value and sound. Now the infamous workhorse has gone show pony with the revamped release of the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x. Let’s dig into just what makes the ATH-m50x some of the most critically acclaimed headphones we have ever tried out! Initially when I opened up the package I was impressed with how attractive they were in the face of the simplicity of their design. When it comes to their appearance Audio-Technica achieves a classic “studio” look while breathing some desperately need fresh air into the line with some nice chrome accents. For any bulk these headphones bring to the table, the more than make up for in comfort, with super thick and soft pleather earpads and headband. Rich, Powerful Bass While the ATH-M50x are certainly marketing as a studio headphone, and are indeed well suited for the job, the definitely have a slightly boosted low end, particularly in the sub-bass frequencies. When it comes to a truly balanced and clean sound, I’d suggest the ATH-m40x, but if a little extra junk in the bass trunk is ok with you, then you will LOVE the ATH-M50x. Cables, Cables, and More Cables… You know what sucks…broken headphone cables. What sucks even more is when you can’t replace the cable, and you’re faced with a costly repair or just plain throwing your fancy headphones out. The good news is the NEW Audio-Technica M-Series headphones come with locking detachable cables…3 of them in fact! 1 short...
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Review

Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Review

ATH-M40x Review While everyone in the headphone world is going crazy over the new Audio-Technica M50x Headphones, and with good reason, I wanted to take some time to talk about the less popular little brother of the ATH-M50x, the ATH-M40x. The m40x offers many of the same amazing features and sound signature as the M50x, but for way less. Features The ATH-M40x features 40mm drivers, 2 removable cables, and a 90° range of motion. With a frequency response of 15 – 24,000 Hz the ATH-M40x offer a wide sound spectrum without having an exaggerated low end. With a professional-grade ear-pad and headband material, that M40x’s offer incredible comfort. Fully collapsible and featuring a leather carrying pouch these headphones are build for portability as well as durability. Technical Data Driver 40 mm Magnet Neodymium Voice Coil CCAW (Copper-clad aluminum wire) Frequency Response 15 – 24,000 Hz Maximum Input Power 1,600 mW at 1 kHz Sensitivity 98 dB Impedance 35 ohms Weight 240 g (8.5 oz) without cable and connector Sound While many will say the ATH-M50X is the most balanced headphone they have ever tried, it’s only because they haven’t tried the M40x. With a notable boost to the bass in the ATH-m50X, they are just not as well suited for mixing or tracking as the ATH-40x, however it’s important to note that the M50X may be better for bass lovers. Everything about these headphones sounds awesome to me. Lately headphones have all together been missing the mids, where as the M-Series line is accurate across all frequency ranges. Comfort The ATH-M40X and indeed the WHOLE line of the new...
Download the FREE ‘Installed Sound Support’ App from Audio-Technica

Download the FREE ‘Installed Sound Support’ App from Audio-Technica

Audio-Technica is  excited to announce the release of their new Installed Sound Support App for iOS Devices. The easy-to-use mobile app provides a number of essential tools for system integrators, sound contractors, FOH engineers, musicans and other audio professionals in the field. Compatible with Apple iOS devices such as iPads and iPhones running iOS 5.1 or higher, the app is free and can be downloaded by visiting the  Apple App Store on an iOS device.  In-app features include: • Application guide for Audio-Technica microphones • Wavelength Calculator • Needed Gain Calculator • 3:1 Microphone Placement Calculator • RTA & SPL Meter • Frequency Finder for Audio-Technica wireless products • Record and Playback functions for sound system testing The app is free, so download now and enjoy the convenience of all of the features right at your...
Audio Technica ATH-M30x vs. ATH-M30 Comparison Review

Audio Technica ATH-M30x vs. ATH-M30 Comparison Review

Overview Recently the beloved Audio Technica team released a new revamp of their famous M series headphones thus ushering in a new era of affordable professional quality studio headphones. The new X line of headphones features 2 with replaceable cables which is something people in the headphone community have been asking about for a while. While the M30x may not have the new cable set up, it does have a few things the M30 do NOT. Even upon first look and first impressions once you take each out of the packaging, the differences are night and day. Lets look at the key factors that we feel differentiate these two headphones, and then we will break down why they are worth owning. While there’s host of reasons to own the ATH-30x’s which we’ll get into in a moment, lets take a look at some of the top reasons these new headphones kick their older brothers butt. Added Benefits Better Frequency Response Better looking overall More durable Higher quality build Only $10 more for the newer model Hey ATH-M30x…You Lookin Sexy… The M30’s are a work horse, but they are by no means pretty. They feature a design aesthetic that I can only describe as something that’s old trying to “look” newish. Take for example the edges of the outside of the can. In the case of the M30, it’s a smooth curvy design that reminds me of a Discman more so than a piece of audio equipment that belongs in the 21st century. Check out the Red arrows in the photos below. You’ll see that the new ATH-m30x feature a much more modern and sleek...