Audio Technica ATH-M50x White

Audio Technica M50x Headphones Review: A Strong Contender for Your Only Pair

If you're only going to own one pair of headphones, I’d highly recommend choosing either the Audio Technica M50x or the Sony MDR-V6. Both models deliver impressive sound quality, durability, and a great design. The Sony MDR-V6 is about half the price of the M50x, and I plan to buy a pair soon to see how they compare. The online reviews for the V6 are consistently positive, often compared side-by-side with the M50 for overall quality.

M50 Variants: M50, M50s, M50x

The M50 line offers three different versions, which can be confusing at first:

• M50: The original model with a 10 ft. coiled cable
• M50s: Features a 10 ft. straight cable
• M50x: The latest model, with three interchangeable cables (10 ft. coiled, 10 ft. straight, and 4 ft. straight)

The M50x’s 4 ft. cable is ideal for portable devices like my iPhone. This updated version was likely designed with portability in mind, making it more versatile for different listening situations.

Original M50 vs. M50x

The original M50 with the 10 ft. coiled cable is actually a newer model, unless specified by the vendor. From what I've read, some people claim the older versions of the M50 sound slightly different. I had the chance to try an older M50 model and tested it alongside my new M50x. While some online reviewers claim a subtle difference, I couldn’t detect much variance in sound, though my sound source was an iPhone 5, which could explain the limited distinction. Both models, however, outshine anything else I owned up until that point.

Pricing (As of March 2014)

• $169 - M50x
• $139 - M50 (coiled cable)
• $119 - M50s

For those on a budget, the M50s is a solid choice, but if you can, I'd recommend spending a bit more on the M50x for the interchangeable cable feature. The versatility of a 4 ft. cable is well worth it.

Color Options

Each model offers a standard black or white color, but they differ on the third option:

• M50x: Blue/Gold
• M50s: Red
• M50: Silver

While the third color seems to be more limited or special edition, I'd personally stick to the black or white versions for a classic look.

Sound Quality

As a budding audiophile, I’m still learning, but the M50s have introduced me to the world of high-quality sound. These headphones bring out details in music that other pairs often blur over, especially with female vocals. 

I’ve found a new appreciation for Japanese artists like Utada Hikaru, and Meiko Kaji sounds amazing on tracks like “Flower of Carnage” and “Urami Bushi” from the Kill Bill soundtrack. Many reviewers recommend the M50 line for serious music listening, and I’m inclined to agree.

Closed-Back Design

The M50s are closed-back headphones, which makes them excellent at isolating outside noise. I tried wearing these at work but had to stop since I couldn’t hear people calling me! However, this makes them a great option for travel or airplane use, and I’m planning to take them on my next flight to Japan.

Build Quality

The M50 line is built to last, with a mostly plastic design that feels durable and reliable. The headband and ear pads are made from a high-quality "pleather," and I appreciate the metal insert along the headband, which likely adds strength and reduces the risk of snapping. While I’ve only had the M50s for a couple of months, they seem sturdy, and I don’t hesitate to toss them in my bag. Like anything, they’ll last longer if handled with care, but they don’t need to be babied.

Final Thoughts

If you’re only going to own one pair of headphones, the Audio Technica M50x is worth serious consideration. They’re pricier than a standard $20 pair, but good quality usually demands a higher price. Over the years, I’ve gone through countless budget headphones, and I wish I’d invested in a single, high-quality pair like these much earlier. It would’ve saved me money and frustration in the long run.

Update (8/9/14)

It’s been over four months since I purchased the M50x, and I’m still thrilled with them. Although I don’t use them daily, whenever I’m in the mood to truly enjoy music, they’re my go-to pair. Definitely a great investment.