Audio-Technica ATH-M60X Professional Monitor Headphones

Auto-asked to write a review for the ATH M50x headphones I've just bought from Studio DJ. Decided to do so. Normally, it would be far too soon to write a review for a newly-purchased product. But this is the second pair of ATH M50x headphones that I've bought, so I have a lot of experience with them. Must point out that I DON'T use them for music! I hardly ever listen to any music; only, sometimes, to Bach's Klavier works on the car CD while driving. So, for music listeners, this review may be totally irrelevant.I specifically chose the M50xs for field recording, especially for nature field recording: I mean, taking the headphones out with me in the field, in all kinds of weather and terrain conditions. For the quality, the price is reasonable, affordable, ... MoreAuto-asked to write a review for the ATH M50x headphones I've just bought from Studio DJ. Decided to do so. Normally, it would be far too soon to write a review for a newly-purchased product. But this is the second pair of ATH M50x headphones that I've bought, so I have a lot of experience with them. Must point out that I DON'T use them for music! I hardly ever listen to any music; only, sometimes, to Bach's Klavier works on the car CD while driving. So, for music listeners, this review may be totally irrelevant.I specifically chose the M50xs for field recording, especially for nature field recording: I mean, taking the headphones out with me in the field, in all kinds of weather and terrain conditions. For the quality, the price is reasonable, affordable, replaceable. And, from my perspective, the quality is very good. You can find many technical reviews for the M50xs, with frequency response graphs, on the web, and it would be worth your while doing some research. I did, and that's why I chose, and was very happy with, these headphones, for my specific purposes. I typically also use them for listening to and editing field recordings, back at home, but I always use them comparatively, in conjunction with other headphones that I wouldn't want to risk taking out into the field. What I've found, from this experience, is that the M50xs work very well, both for in situ recording and for at-home listening/editing: they are very reliable up against other more expensive headphones.From the listening perspective, for me, the most important point is that the M50xs present a significant bass boost (for frequencies below 200 Hz, and still very clearly for frequencies below 100 Hz). For the purposes of nature field recording, this 'bass emphasis' is not a problem, for me, at all; to the contrary, it is a very great advantage, because it alerts me immediately to the presence of low frequency anthropogenic noise, such as distant traffic and machinery noise, which a much 'flatter' headphone frequency response would effectively gloss over. I can then make a choice whether to continue recording, or try to get farther away (usually, it's the latter).The other thing that should be mentioned about the M50xs is that they have a design weakness, which especially affects field recordists. On the one hand, it's wonderful that these headphones can be folded up for neat, convenient packing into a draw-string vinyl bag. But constant wear and tear takes its toll. There is a small plastic pin inside the hinge of the headphones which effectively holds them tight against your ears. With much use, and perhaps especially with much folding and unfolding out in the field, that pin will break off. Then, the headphones no longer have any grip: they can't be used. Fortunately, a quick search on the web for how to repair MKH50xs with this problem, reveals that there are several people who have produced 3D-printed little clamps that can be screwed over the hinge, to fix the problem - because it's a very common and very well-known problem! The result makes the headphones quite usable; although, I found, not with quite the same strength of grip and tight seal around the ears as in the original. Still, much better than ditching a pair of otherwise perfectly good headphones.So, that's basically why I bought this second pair of ATH M50x headphones. I continue to use the repaired pair out in the field, and the new pair at my desk, in conjunction with other headphones. It will be very interesting to see whether not needing to fold away, pack, and carry the new pair will lengthen their hinge lifespan. As for well-known deterioration of the earpads and interior lining of the headband (again, check the web): well, I had already replaced one pair of ear pads on the first pair, so when I bought this pair, I also added a pair of replacement ear pads to the purchase. My feeling is that I'm glad that Audio Technica put the real use value into the important parts of the headphones: the listening parts! If the peripherals have much less longevity, well, at least there are replacements and fixes out there - and for a good reason: because the headphones are very good, and people want to keep using them!

I have had my set of these for over 10 years now! I’ve used them at the computer, out of the house, on planes/travelling even mowing the lawn.The multiple provided cables are great as I leave the long one at my PC and swap for the short one when I’m using them elsewhere. The cables twist lock into place for a secure and durable connection. The original cables all still work flawlessly thanks the the excellent strain relief at the ends.They audio quality is excellent and they are a well built product that truly lasts. I’ve replaced the ear pads once in my ownership and the top pad is starting to look a bit tatty but the adjustments and hinges are all still solid.It is rare to find a product built as well as the M50x are these days. I would estimate I have had ... MoreI have had my set of these for over 10 years now! I’ve used them at the computer, out of the house, on planes/travelling even mowing the lawn.The multiple provided cables are great as I leave the long one at my PC and swap for the short one when I’m using them elsewhere. The cables twist lock into place for a secure and durable connection. The original cables all still work flawlessly thanks the the excellent strain relief at the ends.They audio quality is excellent and they are a well built product that truly lasts. I’ve replaced the ear pads once in my ownership and the top pad is starting to look a bit tatty but the adjustments and hinges are all still solid.It is rare to find a product built as well as the M50x are these days. I would estimate I have had around 10,000 hours of use from my set.

Excellent Set of Headphones!

I've only had these for a short time. So, from my limited experience, I can say they have an excellent, balanced sound, and have been excellent for critical listening in the studio. I haven't had a chance to record with them yet, but I soon will. While listening to some commercial CD's, they were quite enjoyable, as it was easy to focus in on the various instruments in the track, while observing the mix and having no problems at all hearing all the instruments clearly. I've also tested them out on my Xbox Series X, and the sound was just amazing! I felt like I was 'in' the game, hearing sounds from every angle, even from behind me. It was quite the experience. Finally, they are very comfortable, even with glasses on. I can see no problem wearing these for long ... MoreI've only had these for a short time. So, from my limited experience, I can say they have an excellent, balanced sound, and have been excellent for critical listening in the studio. I haven't had a chance to record with them yet, but I soon will. While listening to some commercial CD's, they were quite enjoyable, as it was easy to focus in on the various instruments in the track, while observing the mix and having no problems at all hearing all the instruments clearly. I've also tested them out on my Xbox Series X, and the sound was just amazing! I felt like I was 'in' the game, hearing sounds from every angle, even from behind me. It was quite the experience. Finally, they are very comfortable, even with glasses on. I can see no problem wearing these for long hours. They fit nicely over your ears, and the cups swivel with your head as you move around. Very nice! They seem to be well built, as they feel sturdy and durable, and of excellent quality. They are just and excellent set of headphones!

Good for the price. Strong all rounder

Ive had them for about 3 weeks now. Overall, they're good for the price if you're using them to make music on. They aren't particularly accurate in the low end much, so i probably wouldn't recommend to mix on them.They are bass heavy, however i find my mixes have too much bass when played back on other systems because I cant hear whats going on properly in the Sub bass area on these headphones. But to get your ideas out and to start your tracks, they're great. If you're just listening to music, they're also great. I have the V-moda m-100s, and these have much more bass than even those (which are also known for being bass heavy)The bass is punchy but also over emphasised, they're loud and easy to drive, and the top end is bright.So overall, if you're tight on ... MoreIve had them for about 3 weeks now. Overall, they're good for the price if you're using them to make music on. They aren't particularly accurate in the low end much, so i probably wouldn't recommend to mix on them.They are bass heavy, however i find my mixes have too much bass when played back on other systems because I cant hear whats going on properly in the Sub bass area on these headphones. But to get your ideas out and to start your tracks, they're great. If you're just listening to music, they're also great. I have the V-moda m-100s, and these have much more bass than even those (which are also known for being bass heavy)The bass is punchy but also over emphasised, they're loud and easy to drive, and the top end is bright.So overall, if you're tight on money, they're a good starting out pair of headphones, but if you want something more accurate, you're better off going with something flatter like something from Beyerdynamic

Great sound at a competitive price.

I bought these after watching numerous reviews on YouTube and reading some "Best Choice" selections on the internet. A nice pair of headphones with quality construction and supplied with 3 separate length cables that lock into the left ear cup. Very nice sound quality for home listening with excellent clarity, but a strong emphasis on the low frequencies that is certainly suited to certain musical styles or listening preferences. I would say that at around $140 they represent a pretty good value. You are not getting or paying for a lot of "bells and whistles" that you may not want or need such as Noise Reduction, Wireless/Bluetooth etc. My requirement was for something that I was able to plug in to my amp and listen to my music at higher volumes without disturbing ... MoreI bought these after watching numerous reviews on YouTube and reading some "Best Choice" selections on the internet. A nice pair of headphones with quality construction and supplied with 3 separate length cables that lock into the left ear cup. Very nice sound quality for home listening with excellent clarity, but a strong emphasis on the low frequencies that is certainly suited to certain musical styles or listening preferences. I would say that at around $140 they represent a pretty good value. You are not getting or paying for a lot of "bells and whistles" that you may not want or need such as Noise Reduction, Wireless/Bluetooth etc. My requirement was for something that I was able to plug in to my amp and listen to my music at higher volumes without disturbing the whole house. They do have the sensitivity to get driven by the micro-amps in a cell phone etc.

My first Studio Monitor Headphones!

After a lot of research, it came down to this or Beyerdynamics dt770 pro. And I chose this over that as it had detachable cable, swivel earcups which I really need as I often have to remove my headphones. Now I do have to say, the leather materials and the tight headband maynot be ideal for long usage, you may have some discomfort in wearing it continuously for hours. But other than that, The audio quality is definietly so good that I am now listening to my playlist with a very different perspective (idk if it makes sense but yes). And for anyone who is looking to get their first Studio Monitor headphones will be very much satisfied. It offers a very flat sound which is not bad at all, it only means it replicates the voices and instrument as original as possible. ... MoreAfter a lot of research, it came down to this or Beyerdynamics dt770 pro. And I chose this over that as it had detachable cable, swivel earcups which I really need as I often have to remove my headphones. Now I do have to say, the leather materials and the tight headband maynot be ideal for long usage, you may have some discomfort in wearing it continuously for hours. But other than that, The audio quality is definietly so good that I am now listening to my playlist with a very different perspective (idk if it makes sense but yes). And for anyone who is looking to get their first Studio Monitor headphones will be very much satisfied. It offers a very flat sound which is not bad at all, it only means it replicates the voices and instrument as original as possible. That is exactly what I needed as I need to mix my instrument and vocal tracks. And for all Audiophiles who would need their songs to sound close to original you would love this too! TLDR: If this is your first studio monitor, definitely go for it!

Pure joy of listening

I just got this after having used my AKG K-52 since 2016! When looking at reviews, the Audio-Technica M50x seemed to get a lot of attention and I was ready to take the leap of faith. I've watched reviews and heard experiences from both professionals who demonstrated with real-time pro grade setups and also from absolute noobs (like me) who love to learn more everyday. Wow. This headphone did amaze me. I let it burn-in for a few days and then started using it. The difference in sound quality was huge. The snug fit of the pleather cushion over the ears are very comfortable and give it a good seal to block out a majority of the external sound. The range is great too. For the same sound tracks under the same EQ settings, I could definitely hear more frequencies and the ... MoreI just got this after having used my AKG K-52 since 2016! When looking at reviews, the Audio-Technica M50x seemed to get a lot of attention and I was ready to take the leap of faith. I've watched reviews and heard experiences from both professionals who demonstrated with real-time pro grade setups and also from absolute noobs (like me) who love to learn more everyday. Wow. This headphone did amaze me. I let it burn-in for a few days and then started using it. The difference in sound quality was huge. The snug fit of the pleather cushion over the ears are very comfortable and give it a good seal to block out a majority of the external sound. The range is great too. For the same sound tracks under the same EQ settings, I could definitely hear more frequencies and the sound seemed much richer and fuller. The loudness is very nice too. Very happy with the purchase. The package comes with 3 different cables of varying styles and length for convenience.

Subtle look, blocks out the outside world and very portable

I'm not a music production expert so I won't comment too much on the sound quality aspect.Instead, what I can say is that these closed-back headphones will surely block out all the outside noise, that may be a good thing or not depending on your use case but they do it really well even though they don't come with active noise cancellation features.These headphones are as SIMPLE as they come. No frills or additional hardware or software features. Simply plug in and listen to music. Plus they come with three detachable cables, and they also fold up quite nicely and go into their pouch making them extremely portable. They also seem very sturdy so you don't have to worry about being too delicate with them either.

These are not the 'Famous' ATH-M50's, they're a downgrade.

I understand why Audio Technica did it, but that doesn't mean I have to like it or accept it, which is why I've already requested a refund after wearing them for an afternoon.Build Quality: 8.5/10It's the same as my 9 year old M50's on my head, which means the hinges will wear down, crack, and ultimately break after 4-6 years of regular use, due to the same design defects that have gone completely unchanged in that time. No reinforcement, no improvement of materials, nothing. They won't snap in half after a year like most gaming headsets will though.Comfort: 8/10 (after modification)The earcups are going to turn to dust within a year, might as well buy a replacement set from someone else now to save yourself the trouble. I have a slightly larger sized head ... MoreI understand why Audio Technica did it, but that doesn't mean I have to like it or accept it, which is why I've already requested a refund after wearing them for an afternoon.Build Quality: 8.5/10It's the same as my 9 year old M50's on my head, which means the hinges will wear down, crack, and ultimately break after 4-6 years of regular use, due to the same design defects that have gone completely unchanged in that time. No reinforcement, no improvement of materials, nothing. They won't snap in half after a year like most gaming headsets will though.Comfort: 8/10 (after modification)The earcups are going to turn to dust within a year, might as well buy a replacement set from someone else now to save yourself the trouble. I have a slightly larger sized head and these things can feel tight after a while, but not terrible. (Based on 9 years of using M50's)Sound: 0/10These are not monitor headphones, what you have here is Audio Technica taking the name and legendary status of the original M50's (which were famous for the flat frequency and wide sound stage, at an affordable price), and using that existing branding and legacy to sell their own version of Beats by Dre. It's a real big step backwards for the ATH-M50(x) headphone. The thing that frustrates me the most is that the original M50 sound isn't gone from their lineup, it just got moved from the M50 down to the M40 line. That's not really about the sound so we'll skip that for now.My only Audio Technica alternative for what I'm needing, is the ATH-M40x, which has a very similar sound to the original M50 I'm so happy with. The problem however, is that the build quality of the m40x is not comparable to the quality of the M50x. The 40x has smaller headphones, a narrower, less durable and less comfortable headband, and weaker can hinges lead it to more frequent breaks and needs for replacement.With all that said, I've already submitted my return for these headphones, and will be contacting Audio Technica to try and purchase replacement hinges. I'd rather spend $20 on parts to fix my existing monitors which still sound great, than dumping $170 on something that should be the same, but sounds completely different. Since M40's are prone to breaking and since the M50's have become a victim of popular culture, I really hope they have replacement parts for me. Otherwise, I'm likely going to Sennheiser or Sony. I'll make sure to update this review with whatever alternative I find that I feel best matches the original M50.

review after 4 years of use

design - great, maybe the headband had more durability or more affordable accessories in terms of value for money to upgrade, eg: Bluetooth and mic version upgrade costs almost 60 percent of product price ooofcomfort - becomes sweaty in long sessions if you are not in air-conditioned room, your ears will get tired after 2-3 hrs. even at 90 percent volume. keep volume at max 70 if considering long hrs. usegaming - perfect, even better than some pro gaming headsets which distort real in game sound by unnecessarily amplifying footsteps and faking up the all-other sound which makes the immersive in game exp. bland no issue with these headphones thoughsound quality - sound is already in a sweet spot but you can use equalizer to boost bass if you prefer it certain ... Moredesign - great, maybe the headband had more durability or more affordable accessories in terms of value for money to upgrade, eg: Bluetooth and mic version upgrade costs almost 60 percent of product price ooofcomfort - becomes sweaty in long sessions if you are not in air-conditioned room, your ears will get tired after 2-3 hrs. even at 90 percent volume. keep volume at max 70 if considering long hrs. usegaming - perfect, even better than some pro gaming headsets which distort real in game sound by unnecessarily amplifying footsteps and faking up the all-other sound which makes the immersive in game exp. bland no issue with these headphones thoughsound quality - sound is already in a sweet spot but you can use equalizer to boost bass if you prefer it certain wayvalue for money - yeah it sure was value for money, used them literally every day for 4 years avg. 4 hrs and still so good