Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

The studio monitor headphone that became the industry default

Best for: Podcasters and audio producers who need accurate monitoring headphones for editing, mixing, and tracking

The ATH-M50x is a closed-back over-ear studio monitor headphone using 45mm large-aperture drivers with copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils. It delivers accurate, detailed audio with a slightly enhanced low-end response - the standard recommendation for podcast mixing, voiceover monitoring, and general studio tracking. Ships with three interchangeable cables.

Key features

Closed-back over-ear, 45mm large-aperture drivers
15 Hz - 28 kHz frequency response
38 ohm impedance - drives from any device without an amp
Three interchangeable cables: coiled, long straight, short straight
90-degree swivel earcups for one-ear monitoring
Collapsible design for transport

Our take

The M50x has been the default studio headphone recommendation for over a decade and the reasons are legitimate - the isolation is excellent, the detail retrieval is honest without being harsh, and the slight low-end emphasis makes it forgiving for extended listening sessions without being inaccurate. The three interchangeable cables (coiled, straight long, straight short) are genuinely useful. The only real critique: the earpads deteriorate with heavy use and need replacing every couple of years. The 38 ohm impedance means they drive loud enough from any phone or computer - no amp needed.