With the ATH-M50xBT, Audio-Technica has redesigned its legendary studio headphones into a wireless headset. Classic design and state-of-the-art technology should not only appeal to discerning music lovers but also make the headset suitable for everyday use. We thoroughly tested the Bluetooth 5.0 headset, which costs almost 200 euros.
Design and Workmanship
You can immediately see where the roots of the M50xBT lie. Shape and color resemble the older, wired “brother”, but have received an optical refresh. The closed Overear headset is held in black and is set off against the earphones by silver rings. For correct orientation, the corresponding pages are marked conspicuously. The Audio-Technica logo is printed on the headband.
The headband is still very flexible despite its sturdy construction. The M50xBT can be pulled out in several small steps so that it fits easily on any head. The ear cups can easily be folded for transport. So the headset fits into the included bag and doesn’t take up much space in the jerk, for example. If you only want to take the headphones off at the cash register for a short while to pay for them, they can also be turned easily in several directions. The earphones do not pinch the chin or neck, but lie relaxed on the clavicle.
The design as a whole can be described as classic. The clear forms and lines are not only beautiful, but follow their function. The workmanship is excellent, so the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT feels great in every way.
Technical Details
| Type (Headphones) | Closed, dynamic |
| Driver dimension | 40 mm |
| Magnet | Rare earth |
| Frequency range (headphones) | 15 – 28,000 Hz |
| Sensitivity (Headphones) | 99 dB |
| Impedance (headphones) | 38 Ohm |
| Type (microphone) | Capacitor |
| Sensitivity (Microphone) | -44 dB (1V/Pa at 1 kHz) |
| Frequency range (microphone) | 50 – 4,000 Hz |
| Directangular pattern (microphone) | Omnidirectional |
| Battery | DC 3.7 V Lithium polymer |
| Battery life | Ca. 40 hours of continuous operation |
| Charge time | Ca. 7 hours |
| Connections | Micro USB Type-B, 3.5 mm jack |
| Weight | 310 g (without cable and plug) |
| Communication system | Bluetooth Version 5.0 (A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP) |
| Supported codecs | aptX, AAC, SBC |
| Price | € 198.00 * |
Wearing Comfort
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT’s high wearing comfort is instantly apparent when you put it on. With its 310 grams, it’s not too heavy either. Without much pressure it nestles around the head. You don’t get the feeling that it will fall off your head, even with more violent movements. Everything sits securely, as the test showed during a workout in the gym.
The light foam padding of the ear cups makes it possible for spectacle wearers to wear the headset relaxed. But these could also be a little thicker, because people with slightly larger ears quickly come into contact with the inside. Also the padding of the headband is a bit thin. This slightly reduces the wearing comfort when worn for longer periods.
Sound
The ATH-M50xBT headset convinces with its sound all along the line. As a wireless version of the popular M50x studio headphones, the sound is correspondingly good. It is balanced; highs, mids and lows are mapped flat, i.e. relatively neutral and balanced. The 45 millimeter drivers cover a frequency range of 15 – 28,000 Hz. Those who expect an excessively massive bass will look in vain here.
The integrated omnidirectional microphone picks up sounds with frequencies of 50 – 4,000 Hz and is therefore more than sufficient for telephone calls. In the test, all the interviewees were able to understand the voices well.
Operation
All headset controls and connectors are located on the left earpiece. Here you will find a large slide switch that switches the headset and thus the Bluetooth on and off. This switch proved to be perfect in the test, as it was clearly visible or felt whether the ATH-M50xBT is on or off. Three push buttons are provided for the volume and the play/pause function. A discreet LED also indicates the operating status.
If you touch the left auricle with your finger for about two seconds, the language assistant is activated on compatible devices, such as Siri or Google Assistant.
A micro-USB socket is available for charging. Here we would have wished for a current USB type C connection in the price class. Unfortunately the included cable is a bit too short with about 30 centimeters.
Should the battery snap after almost 40 hours, the headset can also be operated via a jack cable. This is also included with the inline remote control.
Audio-Technica also offers an app for iOS and Android. Here the ATH-M50xBT can be configured or a short manual can be viewed. Unfortunately there is no possibility to adjust the sound of the headphones with an equalizer.
Conclusion
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT is a great headset with great sound. With a clean look and modern technology, it is a great companion that can be easily stowed away thanks to its clever design. In the test it could prove itself and inspired us.
With a price of around 200 euros it is a real recommendation not only for audio lovers. Whether you are using your mobile phone, tablet or laptop, the ATH-M50xBT from Audio-Technica is the perfect choice for every day listening pleasure.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT
Workmanship
Comfort
Sound Quality
Recording Quality
Features
Value for Money
Perfect headset for audiophiles and everyday listeners.
