Audio Technica ATH M50x vs MSR7

Gear Review

Audio-Technica Showdown: ATH-M50x vs. ATH-MSR7

A long-term comparison of two legendary headphones

~10

Months Use

~$150

M50x Price

~$200

MSR7 Price

45mm

Driver Size

Table of Contents

• ①Price Comparison
• ②Sound Quality
• ③Build Quality
• ④Comfort
• ⑤Overall Verdict
• ⑥MSR7 vs. The Field

Section I

Price Comparison

While the M50x has achieved legendary status for its value, the MSR7 appears to be a worthy successor. The M50x offers a more budget-friendly option, making it an attractive choice for those looking for quality without breaking the bank.

• →ATH-M50x — MSRP ~$169; typically found for $130–$150 on Amazon
• →ATH-MSR7 — MSRP $249; often available for around $200

 

Section II

Sound Quality

Both models feature 45mm drivers, but there are notable differences in their specifications and sound character.

Initially, the M50x sounded impressive compared to lower-end headphones—but after using the MSR7s, the M50x feels somewhat muddled in comparison. The MSR7 delivers tighter response, improved definition, and overall greater clarity.

Section III

Build Quality

Both models are well-designed and durable, but the MSR7 has the edge. The M50x has served well for several years, but the pleather earpads and headband started to flake within months. In contrast, the earpads and headband on the MSR7 remain in excellent condition even after almost ten months of use.

Section IV

Comfort

The comfort level is a bit of a mixed bag between the two.

• →MSR7 — Strong initial clamping force; took about a month to break in (stretched on two large pillows). Once acclimated, very comfortable and more portable due to its smaller frame
• →M50x — Comfortable right out of the box; softer clamping force that requires no stretching or break-in period

Tip: If you choose the MSR7, be prepared for a break-in period. Stretching them over large pillows for a few weeks significantly improves the long-term fit.

Section V

Overall Verdict

After allowing the MSR7s to stretch for a month, they emerge as the superior choice. They come with a versatile 3.5mm cable including an inline microphone for mobile use—an essential feature missing from the M50x. While the M50x remains a fantastic value, the ATH-MSR7 has proven to be a more refined and capable headphone.

Section VI

MSR7 vs. The Field

Headphone	Soundstage	Comfort
MSR7	Wide	High (post break-in)
Sony MDR-1A	Moderate	Very High

The MSR7s have a design reminiscent of the Sony MDR-1R/1A, which could be seen as too similar. Having compared them directly, the MDR-1A is very comfortable and offers a nice sound profile—but the wider soundstage of the MSR7s wins out.

M50x wins on price and out-of-box comfort · MSR7 wins on sound, build, and everything else — worth the break-in.