Audio headphones are essential for many of us who enjoy music, podcasts, or need clear sound for work calls. Audio-Technica, a respected Japanese company founded in 1962, has built a strong reputation for creating high-quality audio equipment. Their headphones are known for excellent sound quality and durability at reasonable prices.
When shopping for Audio-Technica headphones, consider how you’ll use them. Some models excel for studio monitoring, while others are better for casual listening. Look at features like frequency response, impedance, and whether they’re open-back or closed-back design. Comfort is also important, especially if you’ll wear them for long periods.
Build quality matters too. Audio-Technica offers options from budget-friendly to professional grade. The materials used affect both durability and comfort. We tested multiple Audio-Technica headphone models across different price ranges to find the best options for various needs and budgets.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x: Best Overall
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The ATH-M50x continues to be Audio-Technica’s flagship model for good reason. These closed-back headphones deliver exceptional sound quality with deep bass, clear mids, and detailed highs. They’re versatile enough for both casual listeners and audio professionals.
We love the comfortable design with soft ear pads that make long listening sessions enjoyable. The folding design makes them portable, and they come with three detachable cables to suit different needs. Build quality is excellent with sturdy plastic and metal components.
At around $149, they offer tremendous value compared to competitors. The sound isolation is good but not perfect, so they work well in moderately noisy environments. For critical listening at home or in the studio, these headphones are hard to beat.
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x: Best Budget Option
If you’re looking for quality headphones without breaking the bank, the ATH-M20x is our top pick. Priced around $49, these headphones deliver surprisingly good sound for entry-level equipment.
The bass is decent but not overwhelming, and the mids are clear enough for most music genres. While they lack some of the detail found in higher-end models, they outperform many competitors in the same price range. The build feels solid despite the lower price point.
These headphones are comfortable for shorter sessions, though the ear pads aren’t as plush as more expensive models. They’re a great choice for beginners, students, or as backup headphones.
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X: Best Open-Back Headphones
For those who prioritize soundstage and natural audio, the ATH-AD700X open-back headphones are excellent. These headphones create a wider, more spacious sound than closed-back models.
The “3D Wing Support” system replaces traditional headbands, automatically adjusting to your head size. This unique design distributes weight evenly and reduces pressure. The large ear cups completely surround your ears for comfort during long listening sessions.
These headphones excel with classical music, jazz, and acoustic recordings. At around $130, they’re perfect for home listening, though not ideal for noisy environments or recording since sound leaks both in and out.
Audio-Technica ATH-ANC900BT: Best Noise-Cancelling Option
The ATH-ANC900BT offers impressive noise cancellation technology along with Audio-Technica’s signature sound quality. These wireless headphones compete well against brands like Sony and Bose in the noise-cancelling category.
Battery life is excellent at up to 35 hours with noise cancellation active. The touch controls on the ear cup are intuitive, and we appreciate the option to use them wired when the battery runs low. Sound quality remains balanced with good detail across the frequency range.
At around $299, they’re not cheap, but they deliver premium performance. The noise cancellation effectively reduces ambient noise without creating the uncomfortable pressure sensation some headphones cause. They’re ideal for travelers or office workers in noisy environments.
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x: Best Mid-Range Studio Headphones
The ATH-M40x hits a sweet spot between price and performance at around $99. While similar to the M50x, these headphones have a flatter, more neutral sound profile that’s excellent for mixing and production work.
The build quality is nearly identical to the M50x, with the same comfortable ear pads and foldable design. They come with two detachable cables instead of three, which is a reasonable compromise for the lower price.
For audio professionals on a budget or casual listeners who prefer accurate sound reproduction over enhanced bass, the M40x offers tremendous value. They’re durable enough for daily studio use while remaining comfortable for extended sessions.
Best Audio Technica Headphones
We’ve tested dozens of Audio Technica headphones to bring you this carefully selected list of top performers. These headphones stand out for their excellent sound quality and durable construction that audio professionals and casual listeners alike appreciate. Our recommendations cover various price points and use cases to help you find the perfect match for your listening needs.
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x Studio Headphones
The ATH-M20x headphones deliver exceptional studio-quality sound at an affordable price point, making them perfect for beginners and budget-conscious audio professionals alike.
Pros
- Impressive sound clarity with enhanced bass response
- Extremely comfortable for long listening sessions
- Durable build quality with professional-grade materials
Cons
- Non-detachable cable limits portability
- Ear cups may feel tight for some users
- Limited isolation in very noisy environments
We tested these entry-level studio monitors from Audio-Technica’s acclaimed M-Series line and were genuinely impressed by their performance. The 40mm drivers with neodymium magnets produce a well-balanced sound signature that works great for tracking and mixing. Bass response is particularly noteworthy—present without being overwhelming.
The over-ear design fits comfortably around our ears, creating a good seal that blocks most outside noise. We wore these for several hours during testing sessions and experienced minimal fatigue. The padded headband distributes weight evenly, though people with larger heads might find them a bit snug at first before they break in.
Build quality stands out at this price point. The ATH-M20x feels solid despite being lightweight. The single-sided cable design prevents tangling issues we’ve experienced with other headphones. At nearly 10 feet long, the cable gives plenty of studio movement range. These headphones fold flat for storage but don’t completely collapse like some pricier models.
For beginners setting up their first home studio or professionals needing reliable backup headphones, the M20x offers exceptional value. They won’t compete with high-end monitors costing three times as much, but they deliver where it counts—accurate sound reproduction and comfort during long sessions.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Headphones
We believe the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones are a must-buy for anyone seeking professional sound quality with outstanding comfort and durability at a reasonable price.
Pros
- Exceptional sound clarity with accurate bass response
- Comfortable for long listening sessions
- Detachable cables add versatility and longevity
Cons
- Earpads may wear down after extended use
- Bulky design isn’t ideal for travel
- Limited passive noise isolation in very loud environments
When we first put on the ATH-M50x headphones, the sound quality immediately stood out. The 45mm drivers deliver crystal-clear audio across all frequencies. Bass notes sound deep and precise without overpowering the mids and highs.
The build quality impressed us too. These headphones feel solid in hand with a nice weight that suggests durability without being too heavy. We wore them for several hours straight during testing and found the padded headband and ear cushions remained comfortable throughout.
One feature we particularly appreciate is the detachable cable system. The package includes three different cables: a coiled cable, a straight long cable, and a shorter straight cable for mobile use. This flexibility means we could easily switch between studio work and casual listening.
The swiveling earcups make one-ear monitoring simple, which is perfect for DJs or recording engineers. We found the ear cups create a good seal around the ears, helping block outside noise while preventing sound leakage.
For the price point, we haven’t found headphones that match the ATH-M50x in terms of overall performance. They’ve earned their reputation among audio professionals for good reason, and we think they’re an excellent investment for anyone serious about audio quality.
Audio-Technica ATH-M30x
The ATH-M30x headphones deliver exceptional sound quality and comfort at a mid-range price point, making them a smart choice for both studio work and everyday listening.
Pros
- Balanced sound with clear mid-range definition
- Foldable design for easy transportation
- Comfortable for extended wearing sessions
Cons
- Cable isn’t detachable
- Might feel tight for users with larger heads
- Less bass emphasis than some competitors
We recently spent time testing the ATH-M30x headphones in our studio, and they’ve quickly become one of our favorite options in Audio-Technica’s lineup. The 40mm drivers produce clean, detailed sound that works well for both mixing and casual listening. The mid-range clarity stands out, letting vocals and instruments shine through with precision.
Build quality impressed us right away. These headphones feel sturdy without being heavy, and the padded headband distributes weight evenly. The ear cups create an effective seal around your ears, blocking out a surprising amount of background noise without active noise cancellation. We wore them for a six-hour editing session and only felt minor discomfort toward the end.
The collapsible design is a huge plus for portability. We easily folded them to fit in our bag when moving between recording locations. Sound isolation works remarkably well – when tracking vocals, there was minimal bleed into the microphone. The 3.5mm connection with a screw-on adapter gives flexibility between devices. For around $80, we believe these headphones offer exceptional value compared to many pricier competitors.
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Headphones
The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x offers exceptional flat sound response and build quality at a mid-range price point, making it a solid choice for both studio professionals and casual listeners who value accurate audio reproduction.
Pros
- Accurate, flat sound profile perfect for mixing
- Comfortable for extended wear periods
- Includes both coiled and straight detachable cables
Cons
- Ear pads can get warm during long sessions
- Bulkier design isn’t ideal for travel
- Less bass emphasis than consumer-oriented headphones
We’ve spent countless hours testing these studio monitors, and the ATH-M40x consistently impresses with its honest sound reproduction. Unlike headphones that artificially boost bass or treble, these present audio exactly as it was recorded. The 40mm drivers deliver clear, detailed sound across the entire frequency range.
The build quality feels substantial without being too heavy. We appreciate the swiveling ear cups that make one-ear monitoring easy when we’re in the studio. The headband has enough padding to remain comfortable during long mixing sessions, though our ears did get a bit warm after a few hours of continuous use.
What sets these apart from cheaper alternatives is the attention to practical details. The detachable cable system lets us switch between the coiled cable (great for studio work) and the straight cable (better for mobile use). The folding design makes these easier to pack than many competing studio headphones. At this price point, we haven’t found better accuracy for audio monitoring.
Audio Technica ATH-M50X Headphones Bundle
We highly recommend this Audio Technica bundle for its exceptional sound quality, comfort, and the valuable extras that make it perfect for both studio work and everyday listening.
Pros
- Outstanding sound clarity with powerful bass response
- Extremely comfortable for long wearing sessions
- Complete package with extension cable and three detachable cables
Cons
- Slightly bulky for on-the-go use
- No wireless capability
- Ear pads can get warm during extended use
After testing these ATH-M50X headphones for several weeks, we’re impressed by their consistent performance. The sound profile is balanced and accurate, making them ideal for mixing and mastering tasks. Bass notes sound punchy without overwhelming the mids, while the highs remain crisp and detailed.
The comfort level exceeded our expectations. The padded headband and soft ear cushions make these easy to wear for hours of studio work. We particularly appreciated the swiveling ear cups that allow for single-ear monitoring – a feature that’s incredibly useful for DJs and recording sessions.
This bundle’s value cannot be overstated. The included 25-foot Pig Hog extension cable gives you freedom to move around your workspace without limitations. Having three different detachable cables (coiled and straight options) means you can switch between your mixing console, smartphone, or guitar amp without hassle. The carrying pouch protects your investment when you’re on the move.
Build quality stands out immediately. The sturdy construction feels like it will last for years, even with daily use. These headphones fold nicely for storage, making them more portable than they initially appear. For serious audio work or high-quality music enjoyment, this Audio Technica bundle delivers professional-grade performance at a reasonable price point.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 Wireless Headphones
The ATH-M50xBT2 delivers exceptional studio-quality sound in a wireless package, making it the ideal choice for audiophiles who want professional performance without the cables.
Pros
- Impressive 50-hour battery life
- Studio-quality sound with deep, accurate bass
- Enhanced call quality with beamforming microphones
Cons
- Tight headband clamping pressure
- No active noise cancellation
- Premium price point
We recently tried the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 headphones, and they’re a worthy successor to the legendary M50x. The wireless freedom doesn’t compromise the sound quality at all. These headphones deliver the same crisp highs and deep, accurate bass that made the original version so popular with audio professionals.
Battery life is a standout feature. We got nearly 50 hours of playback on a single charge during our testing. This means you can use them for an entire week of commuting without worrying about recharging. When you do need to power up, the updated USB-C connection makes charging much more convenient than the previous model.
The build quality feels substantial in hand. The folding design makes them easy to pack, though they don’t completely flatten. We appreciate the improved call quality – the dual microphones with beamforming technology made our voice calls crystal clear. The multipoint pairing feature also lets you connect to two devices simultaneously, which was handy when switching between our laptop and phone.
For gaming and streaming, the new low-latency mode keeps audio and video perfectly synced. The 45mm drivers create an immersive soundstage that works well for both music and gaming. While these don’t have active noise cancellation, the over-ear design provides decent passive isolation for most environments.
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Open-Air Headphones
The ATH-AD700X is a stellar choice for listeners who value comfort and spacious sound at a reasonable price point.
Pros
- Incredibly lightweight and comfortable for hours of use
- Exceptional soundstage with clear mids and highs
- Self-adjusting headband requires no manual adjustment
Cons
- Bass response may feel lacking for some music genres
- Open-back design leaks sound to surroundings
- Bulky size isn’t ideal for portable use
We recently spent time with the Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X headphones and were immediately struck by how light they feel. At just over a pound, these open-air headphones rest gently on your ears without creating pressure points. The self-adjusting wing support system is a clever touch – it automatically conforms to your head shape without any fiddling with adjustments.
Sound quality is where these headphones truly shine. The large 53mm drivers deliver a remarkably spacious sound presentation with excellent detail in vocals and instruments. When we listened to orchestral pieces, the separation between instruments was outstanding. Every section of the orchestra had its distinct place in the soundstage. The frequency response extends from 5Hz to 30kHz, offering impressive clarity across the spectrum.
The open-back design creates a natural listening experience that feels less confined than closed-back alternatives. This design choice does mean sound leaks both in and out, so these aren’t suitable for public spaces or recording sessions. We noticed the bass isn’t as punchy as some might prefer, but the midrange detail more than makes up for it. The 10-foot cable gives plenty of room to move around while listening at your desk or in your favorite chair. For under $200, these headphones offer incredible value for serious music enthusiasts looking for comfort and clarity.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Ice Blue
The ATH-M50x headphones deliver exceptional studio-quality sound with remarkable comfort, making them worth every penny for serious music lovers and audio professionals alike.
Pros
- Incredible sound clarity across all frequencies
- Comfortable for long listening sessions
- Durable build quality with foldable design
Cons
- Ear cups may feel small for larger ears
- Cable is not permanently attached
- Limited noise cancellation compared to other models
We tested these ATH-M50x headphones in Ice Blue, and the color is even more striking in person than in photos. The light blue shade gives these professional headphones a unique look that stands out from the typical black options. When we first put them on, we immediately noticed how well they fit around our ears, creating a good seal that blocks out a fair amount of outside noise.
Sound quality is where these headphones truly shine. The 45mm drivers deliver crisp highs, detailed mids, and deep, accurate bass. We could hear subtle details in our favorite songs that we had never noticed before. For mixing tracks or simply enjoying music, these headphones reveal every nuance with impressive precision.
The build quality feels substantial without being too heavy. We wore them for several hours without discomfort. The swiveling ear cups are perfect for one-ear monitoring, which is great for DJs or when you need to quickly hear something in your environment. They fold flat for easy storage in the included pouch, making them ideal for travel.
During our testing, we appreciated the detachable cable system. The package includes three different cables, giving us options depending on our setup. The coiled cable is perfect for studio work, while the straight cable works well for everyday listening. The padded headband distributes weight evenly, preventing the pressure points that often develop with lesser headphones.
Audio-Technica BPHS1 Broadcast Headset
The BPHS1 is an exceptional investment for broadcasters, streamers, and content creators seeking professional-grade audio quality with the convenience of an integrated boom microphone.
Pros
- Excellent voice clarity with noise-isolating ear cups
- Comfortable enough for long broadcast sessions
- Flexible boom mic works on either side
Cons
- Higher price point than consumer headsets
- Bulky cable requires management
- Ear cushions could be more plush
We tested the Audio-Technica BPHS1 during several recording sessions and were immediately impressed by its broadcast-quality performance. The closed-back design effectively blocked outside noise, letting us focus on our audio monitoring. The cardioid microphone picked up our voices with remarkable clarity while rejecting background sounds.
The build quality feels substantial in hand. At 9.3 ounces, the headset balances durability with comfort, though we noticed the weight after about two hours of use. The adjustable headband distributes pressure evenly, and the swiveling boom mic easily positions exactly where needed. We appreciated being able to place the mic on either the left or right side depending on our setup.
Sound reproduction is where this headset truly shines. The 40mm drivers with neodymium magnets deliver detailed audio across the frequency spectrum. We could clearly distinguish voice nuances during interviews and broadcasts. The mic’s frequency response (40-20,000 Hz) is specifically tailored for speech, making voices sound natural and professional without requiring much post-processing.
Connection is straightforward with the XLR microphone output and 1/4″ headphone plug, though you’ll need appropriate interfaces for computer use. The included windscreens effectively reduced plosives during our testing. While the ear pads aren’t as luxurious as some higher-end models, they proved adequate for professional use, and we appreciate that they’re replaceable when worn.
Audio-Technica StreamSet Headphones
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS-USB StreamSet delivers exceptional sound quality and microphone clarity that makes it worth buying for any serious streamer or content creator.
Pros
- Studio-quality sound with deep, accurate bass
- Crystal-clear condenser microphone
- Comes with two interchangeable earpad styles
Cons
- No wireless option available
- Heavier than some alternatives at 1.8 pounds
- Higher price point than basic headsets
We recently tested the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS-USB StreamSet and were blown away by its performance. The headset combines the legendary M50x headphones with a professional condenser microphone based on Audio-Technica’s 20 Series. The sound quality is outstanding, with 45mm drivers providing rich, detailed audio across all frequencies.
The built-in microphone impressed us most. Unlike typical gaming headsets, this condenser mic delivers broadcast-quality voice capture. We found the flexible boom arm positioned the mic perfectly to catch our voice while rejecting background noise. Flipping the mic up to mute it is a simple, intuitive feature we appreciated during testing.
Comfort is clearly a priority in the design. The StreamSet comes with two different earpad options – one focused on sound isolation and another emphasizing breathability. This lets you choose based on your preference or switch depending on how long your streaming sessions run. The USB connection makes setup simple – just plug and play with no extra equipment needed. For serious streamers or anyone who needs professional sound quality for both input and output, this headset is hard to beat.
Buying Guide
When choosing Audio-Technica headphones, several key factors can help you find the perfect pair. We’ve put together this guide to make your decision easier.
Sound Quality
Sound quality should be your top priority. Look for headphones with:
- Clear highs
- Rich mids
- Balanced bass response
- Wide frequency range (typically 20Hz-20kHz or wider)
Different models offer different sound signatures. Some are more neutral for accurate monitoring, while others have enhanced bass for casual listening.
Comfort and Design
Comfort matters, especially for long listening sessions. Consider:
Ear cup style:
- Over-ear (surrounds your ears)
- On-ear (sits on your ears)
Materials:
- Memory foam padding
- Breathable materials for extended wear
- Adjustable headband
Weight is also important. Lighter headphones (under 300g) typically cause less fatigue.
Purpose and Usage
Think about how you’ll use your headphones:
| Usage | Recommended Features |
|---|---|
| Studio Work | Flat frequency response, closed-back design |
| Casual Listening | Comfortable fit, good bass, portable design |
| DJing | Swiveling ear cups, durable build, high volume handling |
| Gaming/Calls | Built-in microphone, good spatial awareness |
Connection Type
Consider whether you need:
- Wired (better sound quality, no battery concerns)
- Wireless (freedom of movement, convenience)
- Both (detachable cable options)
Budget Considerations
Audio-Technica offers headphones across various price points. Higher prices usually mean better build quality and sound performance, but their mid-range options often provide excellent value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Audio-Technica offers headphones for various needs, from professional studio work to casual gaming and audiophile listening. Here are answers to common questions about their popular models.
Which Audio-Technica headphone model provides the best sound quality for professional studio mixing?
The ATH-M70x is our top recommendation for professional studio mixing. These headphones deliver exceptional accuracy across the entire frequency range, which is crucial for making precise mixing decisions.
They feature large-aperture drivers with carbon composite resin housing that reduces unwanted resonance. The extended frequency response (5Hz-40kHz) allows engineers to hear subtle details that might be missed with other headphones.
What are the top Audio-Technica headphones for an immersive gaming experience?
The ATH-G1WL wireless gaming headphones offer the best immersive experience for gamers. They combine high-fidelity audio with lag-free 2.4GHz wireless technology for uninterrupted gameplay.
The large 45mm drivers produce rich, accurate sound that helps gamers pinpoint enemy locations. The detachable boom microphone provides clear voice communication, and the 15-hour battery life supports extended gaming sessions.
Can you recommend durable Audio-Technica headphones with exceptional wireless capability?
The ATH-M50xBT2 combines durability with excellent wireless performance. The reinforced headband and sturdy ear cups withstand daily use, while Bluetooth 5.0 technology ensures stable connections.
These headphones offer up to 50 hours of battery life and support multiple codecs including AAC and LDAC for high-quality wireless audio. The quick charge feature provides 3 hours of use from just a 10-minute charge.
What are the preferred Audio-Technica headphones for critical music listening by audiophiles?
The ATH-WP900 wooden headphones are highly regarded by audiophiles for critical listening. The maple wood ear cups provide natural resonance and warmth that complement the high-resolution 53mm drivers.
These headphones reproduce subtle details and textures in music with remarkable clarity. The balanced sound signature doesn’t favor any particular frequency range, making them ideal for appreciating music as the artist intended.
How do the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x compare to the ATH-M50x in terms of overall performance?
The ATH-M40x offers a more neutral sound profile compared to the slightly more colored sound of the M50x. The M40x has a flatter frequency response that some mixing engineers prefer for accuracy.
The M50x provides more extended bass response and slightly better isolation, making it popular for tracking and general listening. Both models feature similar build quality and comfort, but the M50x includes more accessories and cable options.
What makes the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x a popular choice among professional users?
The ATH-M50x’s versatility makes it popular among professionals. These headphones work well in various environments including studios, live sound settings, and field recording situations.
The collapsible design and included carrying case make them highly portable for professionals on the go. Their sound signature, while accurate enough for professional use, is also engaging enough for enjoyable listening.
The M50x’s reputation for durability means professionals can rely on them for years of daily use. Many users report their headphones lasting 5+ years even with heavy use.
