YBLTV Review: Audio Technica ATH-M50 Headphones
Let’s face it, when you need to pick up a new set of headphones - the market is flooded with options. Between big brands and newer start-ups, the choices are endless, overwhelming, and a lot of them aren’t always quality made products. It’s easy being drawn to flashy & fashionable styles, but I’m here today to tell you about a great headphone that while may not be as eye-catching as others, is a great all-around piece of audio gear.
Though Audio-Technica ATH-M50 headphones have been replaced with the ATH-M50x Professional Monitor Headphones there’s nothing they can’t do. While the ATH-M50 are intended for professional studio recording, they’re super versatile and good for other things like: listening to vinyl, video gaming, watching movies, etc.
Product Features
Keep in mind - these are BIG over-ear headphones, but that doesn’t mean they have great big low-end response. This is due to them being studio monitors. The idea here is to get a true representation of what sound is being played, which is why they’re used for doing things like recording music. It helps a person hear exactly what is happening when they are mixing audio, and they do just that.
So, if you’re looking for lots of thumping bass, the ATH-M50 might not be the right model for you. With that said, they do provide deep lows and crisp mid & treble response that can’t be heard in a lot of other options. But it’s not the kind of bass you would get from say something like, a subwoofer. If you’re just now making the change from a pair of low-cost earbuds, then this is a HUGE leap in overall quality of sound.
The ATH-M50 came in both black or white, and has the option for a straight 11’ chord or a coiled 3.9’ to 9.8’ chord, plus a carrying pouch for protection. I opted for the straight chord since it is a little longer than the coil, which is good for things like live recording in the studio, but not so good for say - taking a walk down the street. If you’re looking to use these for more leisurely purposes, the coil chord is probably a better option. Or the new ATH-M50x, in which you can use any 3.5mm aux chord of your choosing.
If you’re a seasoned audio enthusiast with a vast knowledge, these just aren’t going to compete with other brands at higher prices. But that’s not the point. These headphones come in at just $149.00 USD - making them my best recommendation for a headphone under $150.
Pros
- Longevity and reliability
- Flat EQ provides true reference to audio
- Comfortable over-ear pads
- Comes with 3.5mm aux chord and 1/4” gold plated adapter
- Great over all sound, can get loud but not overbearingly
Cons
- Weight on top of your head can cause discomfort after wearing for long periods, but can be resolved with a little DIY modding and foam padding to the headband
- Plastic construction is a bit noisy when taking headphones on and off
- Auxiliary chord isn’t detachable on the ATH-M50 but is on the newer ATH-M50x
“There’s nothing that the Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Headphones can’t do,” - Nathan Gwatney, YBLTV Writer / Reviewer
Final Thoughts
If you are down with kicking it old school and walking the streets with a big pair of headphones on - Audio-Technica ATH-M50 headphones are a great option at a reasonable price. They provide good isolation, a wide surround sound spectrum, and a clear representation of audio. I definitely love these headphones and you probably will too.
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Please Note: The ATH-M50 has been discontinued and replaced with the ATH-M50x Professional Monitor Headphones.