The black ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones from Audio-Technica offer an incredibly accurate listening experience in a lightweight, comfortable design. The 45mm neodymium drivers provide a wide frequency response of 15Hz to 28kHz so you hear the lowest bass and highest trebles. The adjustable, padded headband and cushioned earcups let you listen for hours without fatigue. The earpieces can swivel for easy single-ear monitoring, and the collapsible design is great for storage and travel.
The single-sided straight cable minimizes tangles, and the 3.5mm mini plug is compatible with a wide variety of audio devices. A 1/4" adapter is supplied so you can connect to professional-level audio gear. A handy carrying pouch is also included.
| Type | Closed-back dynamic |
| Driver | 45 mm |
| Magnet | Neodymium |
| Voice Coil | CCAW (Copper-clad aluminum wire) |
| Frequency Range | 15 Hz to 28 kHz |
| Impedance | 38 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 99 dB |
| Maximum Input Power | 1600 mW @ 1 kHz |
| Connectors |
1x 1/8" (3.5 mm) Gold-plated stereo connector with strain relief 1x 1/4" (6.3 mm) adapter |
| Cable Length | 11' (3.5 m) OFC litz wire straight |
| Weight | 10 oz (284 g) (without cable) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Incredible Performance
I bought the Audio-Technica ATH-M50s headphones to replace my broken Sennheiser HD-280 PRO headphones that the headband had split in two on.
Using the ATH-M50s is like taking taking a blanke...Read complete review
I bought the Audio-Technica ATH-M50s headphones to replace my broken Sennheiser HD-280 PRO headphones that the headband had split in two on.
Using the ATH-M50s is like taking taking a blanket off the dull, muffled sounds I was used to hearing. While the ATH-M50s aren't ruler flat in frequency response, they do reproduce sounds with incredible clarity.
The bass is tight and low, without being boomy or over-hyped. The mids are clear and full, with no "tin can" hollowness that too many closed-back headphones tend to sound like. The high frequencies are bright and detailed. A cymbal crash sounds like a cymbal crash, not like a blast of high-frequency noise.
I use these headphones for multiple applications, including monitoring and tracking. I also use them for listening to music (classical, folk, pop, rock, country) and I have literally wanted to go through my entire music collection again, as I'm hearing subtle nuances in the music that I've never heard before.
And finally, they are comfortable. I can wear these headphones for hours on end without experiencing any pain or discomfort, no odd pressure points being felt. While they do get a bit warm around the ears, being a closed-back design, this is to be expected, and can't really be considered a negative given the known restrictions of the design.
The straight cable is so much nicer than coiled cables, no kinking and binding, and no slingshot effect. The cable is plenty sturdy feeling, with stress relief on both ends, and the plug end is especially well designed in this regard. Finally, the 1/4" adapter screws on and stays secured, and is knurled to provide a good grip when putting it on or taking off of the mini-plug.
Overall, I can't say enough good about these headphones, they are an incredible value with exceptional performance that not only met, but surpassed my expectations.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Great Headphones...Bad 1/4" plug.
I use these headphones in a professional recording studio [@]) where to me, reliability is paramount. The first time I let a client use my new headphones, they complained that they could ...Read complete review
I use these headphones in a professional recording studio [@]) where to me, reliability is paramount. The first time I let a client use my new headphones, they complained that they could only hear one side. Since I had JUST purchased them, I didn't think that they would be the source of the problem. However, after checking every signal path and connection for nearly an hour, I finally figured out that my brand new headphones have a 1/4" plug that is somehow sub-standard (It may just be the 1/8" to 1/4" adapter). If I jiggle the plug around in the headphone amp's jack, they start to work. Just to be sure it wasn't the amp, I checked them in several different devices. Yep...bad plug. I now have to send my new headphones back to have them repaired or replaced. If you buy these and they have a good plug, you will be thrilled. If the plug is bad, you might experience the same level of embarrassment that I did. Enjoy!
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 154 customers
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Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
This is a review for BH Photo and not for the headphones. There are plenty of positive reviews for the headphones and there is nothing for me to add. I must say that BH Photo delivered the product quickly with the free shipping option and there price was the best on the internet. I have bought products before from BH and always pleaed with their prices plus service. Will shop with them again. Thank you BH.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
Great product for the price. Not high end but definitely well balanced and the quality shows. Not much noise isolation.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
This is a review for BH and not the headphones as you can read all the positive reviews on these great set of headphones. Just want to say that BH free delivery on the phones was fast and the price was the best I could find on the internet. They were packaged nicely and new in the box. I have bought before from BH and can vouch for there prices and service. Thank you BH
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
Use them to mix a live video stream. Good isolation and accurate sound reproduction.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
Great noise isolation in moderately noisy environments without noise cancellation.
Balanced sound.
Chord runs pretty long, if I were to choose again I'd probably go with the coiled cable rather than straight.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I use this for everyday listening, and mixing utilities. They are monitoring headphones, so they aren't the best for making music sound good-- but provide a pretty good representation across the eq spectrum.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
Having read about these many times in Stereophile, my expectations were very high. Make no mistake, there are better headphones out there but at what price point? These cans are a great value and it's an ongoing shame that the general public is more than willing to spend a lot more money on headphones from companies that spend more on advertising or products that are the latest trends. Many products out there that fit those two descriptors are decent products in their own right but with the ATH-M50's, for a lot less money, you get more music.
Break in makes a huge difference (48 hours plus) and to me, they produce more bass (still clean) than described by others.
Over the ears so not the most portable and your ears can sweat. Snug fit for average male head size but not uncomfortable for a couple of hours at a time. Used on home system as well in office with a nano and substantial headphone amp (Burson 160d). That said, get yourself a mini plug and the nano can drive these headphones.
Rock, acoustic, small group and big band jazz, classical, baroque, reggae, world.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I use these for in-studio recording as well as location audio for film shootsWhy?- great sound - no excessive bass response, flat and true sound- great isolation, reduces outside noise while keeping headphone sound in (no click track bleeding into the mics)- quiet operation - no squeaks or rattles or any noise at all while using them- durable - I keep a set in my backpack for location shoots, it's been in there a year geting tossed around and never had a problem. We have another set used in studio for 3 years, and still works perfect, ear cups haven't worn out at all either.You will NOT regret buying these, I can't recommend them enough. They sound GREAT just plugged into an iPod as well.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I had been searching for a GOOD pair of headphones for a while. I had a pair of the original BOSE headphone (non-noise canceling). I THOUGHT those were amazing. Once I lost them, I started listening to various ones at the [@]. Bose, Beats to names a few. I AM a guy that likes a lot of bass so at first I thought I'd go with the Beats headphones because they do actually pack a LOT of bass. However, I also felt it was almost TOO much bass which would drown out the music/movies. (which is sort of odd for me to say considering my home theater system has TWO supercube II subwoofers...I LIKE bass) After debating if the LARGE number of reviews were actually truthful, I decided to give Audio Technica a chance...You almost can't afford not to :) B&H Photo by far had the best price. Well, once I got them (quickly) they truly did sound amazing. Amazing sound quality. GREAT accurate bass. (the bass is very good, but not overwhelming...yet if you have some bass songs they can handle ANYTHING...I tried some Bass Mechaniks, and then the movie DREDD on blu-ray. Amazing sound!!!) I would STRONGLY recommend these to any of my close friends or strangers alike!!! VERY happy with these headphones. Classical music is crystal clear, bass music is DEEP and LOUD, Movies make you have a VERY high end HT system on your ears! GET THESE HEADPHONES!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I think it's a good buy for those who are new to audiophile products. 5 stars for the build, sound quality and price ratio.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I use on my bass multi effect. The sound is very clear. Build quality is super.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
THese earphones are really worth the money they give you a lot of flexibility in terms of crafting your mix. I have 2 pairs of these and I have to say I am extremely satisfied.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I use my phones in my home studio and when I'm recording at other studios.
Great for bass clarity and reproduction.
Would buy again and again.
B&H were great to work with and had the best price!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I use these to record with logic.They give me in my home studio the ability to record at night as I no longer need the studio speakers which outrage my family members late at night.Very clean Highs and mid range. .
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
Very comfortable and great sound. Helps keep out background noise. Using to monitor video shoots.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
Very accurate and transparent. I own ATh-40's as well but these are much clearer. Makes it very easy to mix and set pan levels./
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
Read sveral reviews out online and gave these ones a shot. Much criper then the Bose and the synheiser. I am a happy camper for less. Plug them straight into the laptop no need for extra amp.Very crisp,no hiss
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I'm using these phones for home recording studio work and they definitely serve their purpose well. I tried few other phones in this price range, even some of the more expensive phones that tout themselves as "studio" and are all the rage with the kids... the ATH-M50's are noticeably better, IMO. I really like the straight cable too while playing guitar or drums. I haven't found anything that I don't like yet so, that's good!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I'm a college student living in a dorm room, and other people can be really loud, I've found that these headphones are perfect for days when I want to block everyone else out. They're really good all around headphones that I can wear on my way to class or going to the library, the only thing I would worry about is the chord being kind of long, but that is easily fixed.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I use it for recording music. I've listened to other high quality headphones that almost seem to enhance the music (leading to hearing fatigue)These are natural sounding and without coloring the sound
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Incredible Performance
I bought the Audio-Technica ATH-M50s headphones to replace my broken Sennheiser HD-280 PRO headphones that the headband had split in two on.
Using the ATH-M50s is like taking taking a blanke...Read complete review
I bought the Audio-Technica ATH-M50s headphones to replace my broken Sennheiser HD-280 PRO headphones that the headband had split in two on.
Using the ATH-M50s is like taking taking a blanket off the dull, muffled sounds I was used to hearing. While the ATH-M50s aren't ruler flat in frequency response, they do reproduce sounds with incredible clarity.
The bass is tight and low, without being boomy or over-hyped. The mids are clear and full, with no "tin can" hollowness that too many closed-back headphones tend to sound like. The high frequencies are bright and detailed. A cymbal crash sounds like a cymbal crash, not like a blast of high-frequency noise.
I use these headphones for multiple applications, including monitoring and tracking. I also use them for listening to music (classical, folk, pop, rock, country) and I have literally wanted to go through my entire music collection again, as I'm hearing subtle nuances in the music that I've never heard before.
And finally, they are comfortable. I can wear these headphones for hours on end without experiencing any pain or discomfort, no odd pressure points being felt. While they do get a bit warm around the ears, being a closed-back design, this is to be expected, and can't really be considered a negative given the known restrictions of the design.
The straight cable is so much nicer than coiled cables, no kinking and binding, and no slingshot effect. The cable is plenty sturdy feeling, with stress relief on both ends, and the plug end is especially well designed in this regard. Finally, the 1/4" adapter screws on and stays secured, and is knurled to provide a good grip when putting it on or taking off of the mini-plug.
Overall, I can't say enough good about these headphones, they are an incredible value with exceptional performance that not only met, but surpassed my expectations.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Great Headphones...Bad 1/4" plug.
I use these headphones in a professional recording studio [@]) where to me, reliability is paramount. The first time I let a client use my new headphones, they complained that they could ...Read complete review
I use these headphones in a professional recording studio [@]) where to me, reliability is paramount. The first time I let a client use my new headphones, they complained that they could only hear one side. Since I had JUST purchased them, I didn't think that they would be the source of the problem. However, after checking every signal path and connection for nearly an hour, I finally figured out that my brand new headphones have a 1/4" plug that is somehow sub-standard (It may just be the 1/8" to 1/4" adapter). If I jiggle the plug around in the headphone amp's jack, they start to work. Just to be sure it wasn't the amp, I checked them in several different devices. Yep...bad plug. I now have to send my new headphones back to have them repaired or replaced. If you buy these and they have a good plug, you will be thrilled. If the plug is bad, you might experience the same level of embarrassment that I did. Enjoy!
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 154 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
This is a review for BH Photo and not for the headphones. There are plenty of positive reviews for the headphones and there is nothing for me to add. I must say that BH Photo delivered the product quickly with the free shipping option and there price was the best on the internet. I have bought products before from BH and always pleaed with their prices plus service. Will shop with them again. Thank you BH.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
Great product for the price. Not high end but definitely well balanced and the quality shows. Not much noise isolation.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
This is a review for BH and not the headphones as you can read all the positive reviews on these great set of headphones. Just want to say that BH free delivery on the phones was fast and the price was the best I could find on the internet. They were packaged nicely and new in the box. I have bought before from BH and can vouch for there prices and service. Thank you BH
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
Use them to mix a live video stream. Good isolation and accurate sound reproduction.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
Great noise isolation in moderately noisy environments without noise cancellation.
Balanced sound.
Chord runs pretty long, if I were to choose again I'd probably go with the coiled cable rather than straight.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I use this for everyday listening, and mixing utilities. They are monitoring headphones, so they aren't the best for making music sound good-- but provide a pretty good representation across the eq spectrum.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
Having read about these many times in Stereophile, my expectations were very high. Make no mistake, there are better headphones out there but at what price point? These cans are a great value and it's an ongoing shame that the general public is more than willing to spend a lot more money on headphones from companies that spend more on advertising or products that are the latest trends. Many products out there that fit those two descriptors are decent products in their own right but with the ATH-M50's, for a lot less money, you get more music.
Break in makes a huge difference (48 hours plus) and to me, they produce more bass (still clean) than described by others.
Over the ears so not the most portable and your ears can sweat. Snug fit for average male head size but not uncomfortable for a couple of hours at a time. Used on home system as well in office with a nano and substantial headphone amp (Burson 160d). That said, get yourself a mini plug and the nano can drive these headphones.
Rock, acoustic, small group and big band jazz, classical, baroque, reggae, world.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I use these for in-studio recording as well as location audio for film shootsWhy?- great sound - no excessive bass response, flat and true sound- great isolation, reduces outside noise while keeping headphone sound in (no click track bleeding into the mics)- quiet operation - no squeaks or rattles or any noise at all while using them- durable - I keep a set in my backpack for location shoots, it's been in there a year geting tossed around and never had a problem. We have another set used in studio for 3 years, and still works perfect, ear cups haven't worn out at all either.You will NOT regret buying these, I can't recommend them enough. They sound GREAT just plugged into an iPod as well.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I had been searching for a GOOD pair of headphones for a while. I had a pair of the original BOSE headphone (non-noise canceling). I THOUGHT those were amazing. Once I lost them, I started listening to various ones at the [@]. Bose, Beats to names a few. I AM a guy that likes a lot of bass so at first I thought I'd go with the Beats headphones because they do actually pack a LOT of bass. However, I also felt it was almost TOO much bass which would drown out the music/movies. (which is sort of odd for me to say considering my home theater system has TWO supercube II subwoofers...I LIKE bass) After debating if the LARGE number of reviews were actually truthful, I decided to give Audio Technica a chance...You almost can't afford not to :) B&H Photo by far had the best price. Well, once I got them (quickly) they truly did sound amazing. Amazing sound quality. GREAT accurate bass. (the bass is very good, but not overwhelming...yet if you have some bass songs they can handle ANYTHING...I tried some Bass Mechaniks, and then the movie DREDD on blu-ray. Amazing sound!!!) I would STRONGLY recommend these to any of my close friends or strangers alike!!! VERY happy with these headphones. Classical music is crystal clear, bass music is DEEP and LOUD, Movies make you have a VERY high end HT system on your ears! GET THESE HEADPHONES!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I think it's a good buy for those who are new to audiophile products. 5 stars for the build, sound quality and price ratio.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I use on my bass multi effect. The sound is very clear. Build quality is super.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
THese earphones are really worth the money they give you a lot of flexibility in terms of crafting your mix. I have 2 pairs of these and I have to say I am extremely satisfied.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I use my phones in my home studio and when I'm recording at other studios.
Great for bass clarity and reproduction.
Would buy again and again.
B&H were great to work with and had the best price!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I use these to record with logic.They give me in my home studio the ability to record at night as I no longer need the studio speakers which outrage my family members late at night.Very clean Highs and mid range. .
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
Very comfortable and great sound. Helps keep out background noise. Using to monitor video shoots.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
Very accurate and transparent. I own ATh-40's as well but these are much clearer. Makes it very easy to mix and set pan levels./
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
Read sveral reviews out online and gave these ones a shot. Much criper then the Bose and the synheiser. I am a happy camper for less. Plug them straight into the laptop no need for extra amp.Very crisp,no hiss
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I'm using these phones for home recording studio work and they definitely serve their purpose well. I tried few other phones in this price range, even some of the more expensive phones that tout themselves as "studio" and are all the rage with the kids... the ATH-M50's are noticeably better, IMO. I really like the straight cable too while playing guitar or drums. I haven't found anything that I don't like yet so, that's good!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I'm a college student living in a dorm room, and other people can be really loud, I've found that these headphones are perfect for days when I want to block everyone else out. They're really good all around headphones that I can wear on my way to class or going to the library, the only thing I would worry about is the chord being kind of long, but that is easily fixed.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Professional Closed-Back Studio Headphones with a Straight Cable (Black):
I use it for recording music. I've listened to other high quality headphones that almost seem to enhance the music (leading to hearing fatigue)These are natural sounding and without coloring the sound