Audio-Technica ATH-M50x: Specs, Cables and Who Should Buy Them

Black closed-back studio monitor headphones with a coiled cable on a studio desk

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x are closed-back studio monitor headphones with detachable cables, used for tracking, mixing, DJ monitoring, gaming and everyday listening. This guide covers what is in the box, the specifications and who they suit, so you know what you are buying before you order.

Quick answer

Buy the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x if you want wired closed-back headphones for recording, mixing or monitoring that also work for gaming and commuting. If you need wireless or active noise cancelling, these are not that type of headphone.

Specifications

Type Closed-back dynamic
Driver 45 mm, neodymium magnet, copper-clad aluminium wire voice coil
Frequency response 15 to 28,000 Hz
Sensitivity 99 dB
Impedance 38 ohms
Maximum input power 1,600 mW at 1 kHz
Weight 285 g without cable
Cable Detachable, three included: 1.2 to 3.0 m coiled, 3.0 m straight, 1.2 m straight
Connector Gold-plated 3.5 mm stereo with strain relief
Folding Collapsible, 90 degree swivelling earcups
In the box Screw-on 1/4 inch adapter, pouch

Specs are taken from the product page on this store.

What makes them useful in a studio

  • Closed-back design: the circumaural earcups isolate you from the room, which helps when recording vocals or instruments so the sound does not leak into the microphone.
  • Swivelling earcups: turn one earcup 90 degrees for one-ear monitoring.
  • Three cables: a long coiled cable for the studio and shorter straight cables for portable use, all detachable.
  • Passive isolation: they are powered through the audio jack alone, with no battery or charging.

Who they suit

  • Home studio users who need monitoring headphones for tracking and mixing.
  • DJs who want closed-back headphones for cueing.
  • Gamers and commuters who want wired headphones with detachable cables.

Common questions

Do they need a headphone amplifier?

No. They are powered through the audio jack, so you can plug them into an audio interface, a mixer or a computer. Use the included 1/4 inch adapter for studio gear.

Are they wireless?

No. They are wired headphones with detachable cables.

Can I use them for recording?

Yes. The closed back keeps sound from leaking into a microphone, so they suit monitoring while you record.

Are these genuine India stock with warranty?

Pro Audio Brands lists them with manufacturer warranty. See the product page for the current price and availability.

Plugging them into an interface? See our Audient iD14 MKII guide or browse all Audio-Technica gear.