Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $170

Standard/Professional

$100

$301+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "ATH M-50". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step into the world of precise audio fidelity with the ATH M-50 headphones, where professional performance meets exceptional comfort. Renowned for their 45mm neodymium magnet drivers, these headphones are engineered to deliver an unparalleled frequency response, perfect for critical listening whether you're in the studio, on stage, or just enjoying your favorite tracks at home. The circumaural design fits snugly around your ears, offering excellent sound isolation that minimizes bleed and lets you focus on the music.

Designed with versatility in mind, the ATH M-50 features a collapsible design and 90° swiveling earcups, allowing for easy one-ear monitoring and space-saving portability. Whether you’re tracking, mixing, or DJing, the detachable cables (available in both straight and coiled options) provide flexibility for any setup. The professional-grade earpads and headband ensure a comfortable fit even during extended sessions, making these headphones a trusted companion for audio professionals and enthusiasts alike.

The ATH M-50 headphones are not just about exceptional sound; they also boast robust build quality. With a reputation backed by top audio engineers, they are a reliable choice for anyone seeking accuracy and durability in their audio gear. Experience the clarity and depth of sound that makes the ATH M-50 a perennial favorite in the world of professional and personal audio.

Key Features:

  • 45mm neodymium magnet drivers for accurate frequency response
  • Circumaural design for superior sound isolation
  • Collapsible design and 90° swiveling earcups for portability and easy monitoring
  • Detachable cables: 3.9–9.8-ft. coiled cable, 3.9-ft. straight cable, and 9.8-ft. straight cable
  • Professional-grade earpad and headband materials for comfort and durability
  • Includes carrying pouch and 1/4-in. screw-on adapter

Product specs

Brand Audio-Technica
Model ATH M50
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Closed-Back Headphones, Over-ear Headphones

FAQs

Are the Audio-Technica ATH M50 headphones suitable for studio monitoring?

Yes, the ATH M50 headphones are well-regarded for studio monitoring due to their accurate sound reproduction and clear frequency response, making them a popular choice among professionals.

How comfortable are the ATH M50 headphones for long listening sessions?

The ATH M50 headphones feature cushioned ear pads and an adjustable headband, providing a comfortable fit for extended use, although some users may find them a bit tight initially.

Do the ATH M50 headphones offer noise isolation?

The ATH M50 headphones provide good passive noise isolation with their closed-back design, effectively reducing ambient noise in most environments.

Can the ATH M50 headphones be used with portable devices?

Yes, the ATH M50 headphones can be used with portable devices as they come with a detachable cable and a standard 3.5mm plug, making them compatible with most smartphones and music players.

What is the build quality of the Audio-Technica ATH M50 headphones like?

The ATH M50 headphones are known for their durable construction, featuring robust materials and a foldable design for easy portability without compromising on build quality.

Marques Brownlee

Marques Brownlee

Beats Pro vs Audio Technica ATH-M50!

Video thumbnail for Beats Pro vs Audio Technica ATH-M50! by Marques Brownlee

Beats Pro vs Audio Technica ATH-M50!

Marques Brownlee

Marques Brownlee

Video thumbnail for Audio Technica ATH-M50 [Review] by Marques Brownlee

Audio Technica ATH-M50 [Review]

Marques Brownlee

Marques Brownlee

Video thumbnail for ATH-M50 Headphone Rebuild, Cable Mod,  FRESH ear-pads & a hand sewn headband 🧵🎧 by DcSoundOp

ATH-M50 Headphone Rebuild, Cable Mod, FRESH ear-pads & a hand sewn headband 🧵🎧

DcSoundOp

DcSoundOp

Reviews

PROS

  • Durable construction lasts over a decade with constant use

  • Noticeable sound improvement over other headphones after burn-in

  • Attractive design enhances visual appeal

  • Reliable performance for studio, travel, and media consumption

CONS

  • Uncomfortable for extended listening sessions due to ear pad material hardening

  • Heavy cord can be cumbersome and awkward to manage

  • Lacks sound stage and instrument separation, limiting audio detail

  • Strong ear pressure makes prolonged use difficult

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ATH M-50.

Features and functionality

  • The folding mechanism is appreciated for its convenience and portability, though some describe it as weak.

    Source
  • The headset comes with two sets of pads, including one with a soft side and another with a rubbery faux-leather material.

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  • The USB version offers self-monitoring, allowing users to hear their voice in real-time, akin to old landline telephones.

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  • The ATH-M50xSTS features a mic capsule similar to the AT2020, known for its sensitivity and high-quality vocal capture.

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User experience

  • Users highlight the headphone's ability to reveal intricate sound details, such as discovering new elements in familiar songs.

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  • Users report that the mic boom arm is short, keeping the mic diagonally positioned to minimize plosives and moisture.

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  • Some users find the treble sharp and grainy, requiring EQ adjustments for a smoother listening experience.

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  • Some users find the clamping force uncomfortable over extended periods, especially if wearing them for more than an hour.

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Comparisons

  • The ATH-M50xSTS is compared to the DT-990 Pro, with users noting a more balanced sound despite the pronounced bass and treble.

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  • Compared to AKG K361, the ATH-M50x is noted for better build quality, although the AKG is preferred by some for sound quality.

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  • The ATH-M50x has been compared to the M40X, with the latter being described as more relaxed and warmer in sound.

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Use cases and applications

  • Owners suggest the XLR version for recording due to its ability to connect to a preamp for additional audio processing like compression.

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  • The XLR version requires phantom power and is recommended for users who plan on processing vocals with a preamp.

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  • Despite its bass-heavy sound, the ATH-M50x is used for monitoring due to its ability to reveal flaws in music production.

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  • The ATH-M50x is favored for its portability and durability, making it ideal for travel and fieldwork where robust headphones are needed.

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  • They're often favored for sound monitoring due to good isolation and affordability, making them less of a worry for damage during extended use.

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Build quality

  • Some owners report that a thin piece of plastic can snap, rendering the headphones unusable.

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  • Owners note that while the ATH-M50x lacks a premium metal design, it is still robust, capable of withstanding significant physical abuse without breaking.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Users recommend third-party earpads like Yaxi StPad2 for improved comfort without altering the original sound signature significantly.

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Value and pricing

  • Price fluctuations of the ATH-M50x can reach around 30% during sales, influenced by its past demand and price creep.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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2 star
1 star
punch

Decent sound, but not too comfortable.

These things took a while to burn in, but once they were they improved their sound drastically. While they have a decent response, the material the ear pads are made out of hardens over time and gets uncomfortable. In terms of long term use, these phones are not comfortable enough for wearing for long periods of time.

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