10 Best Audio Technica Headphones 2026 in the United States

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50XGM headphones are highly regarded for their clear and balanced sound quality, thanks to large 45mm drivers that deliver deep bass and clear highs, making them a favorite among audio professionals and enthusiasts. Their over-ear, closed-back design offers good noise isolation, helping to block out background sounds, which is useful in noisy environments or for focused listening. Comfort is well addressed with cushioned ear pads and a padded headband, allowing for extended use without much discomfort, and the swiveling earcups add convenience for one-ear monitoring.

The build quality is solid, with durable materials that should hold up well over time, plus the headphones are foldable for easier storage and transport. These headphones are wired only, using a 3.5mm audio jack, so they do not support Bluetooth or wireless connections, which might be a downside if you want more mobility. With an impedance of 38 ohms, they can easily work with most devices like laptops, phones, and audio equipment without needing a separate amplifier.

The frequency response is broad, ensuring a rich and detailed sound across different music genres or professional audio work. They are especially suitable for those involved in music production, recording, or anyone seeking high-quality, reliable wired headphones. For those who require wireless features or active noise cancellation, these might not be the best fit, but within their category, these headphones offer excellent value and trusted performance.

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones are well-regarded for their excellent sound quality, making them a solid choice for both professional audio engineers and casual listeners. The proprietary 45 mm large-aperture drivers contribute to an exceptional clarity throughout an extended frequency range, with a deep and accurate bass response. The circumaural design, which covers the ears completely, provides great sound isolation, which can be particularly beneficial in noisy environments. This feature is enhanced further by the 90-degree swiveling earcups, which also make one-ear monitoring convenient.

In terms of comfort and fit, the professional-grade earpad and headband materials ensure durability and extended comfort, even during long listening sessions. However, as these are wired headphones, they may not be ideal for users looking for wireless connectivity. The detachable cable is a nice touch, allowing for easy replacement if needed. With an impedance of 38 Ohms, they are easy to drive with most devices, including cell phones, tablets, desktops, and laptops.

The frequency response range is extensive, reaching up to 28,000 Hz, which contributes to the detailed sound profile. While they excel in sound isolation, it's worth noting that they do not feature active noise cancellation, which might be a consideration for users looking for this particular functionality. Additionally, with a weight of 10.2 ounces, they strike a good balance between being sturdy and not too heavy for daily use. These headphones are best suited for users prioritizing high sound quality, durability, and comfort, though they may not be suitable for those needing wireless capabilities or active noise cancellation.

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xWH headphones are a solid choice for anyone looking for professional-level sound quality, especially useful for music production or serious listening. They feature large 45mm drivers that deliver clear audio with a wide frequency range (15-28,000 Hz), providing deep bass and crisp highs. Many audio engineers recommend them for their balanced and detailed sound.

Comfort is thoughtfully designed with over-ear, cushioned pads and a headband made from durable, soft materials. The earcups swivel 90 degrees, which is handy for monitoring with one ear. Because the headphones are circumaural (they fully cover your ears), they offer good passive noise isolation, helping block out noisy environments without active noise cancellation.

Built to last, the ATH-M50xWH uses aluminum parts and professional-grade materials, and it comes with a detachable cable, making replacement easy if needed. The impedance of 38 Ohms means they work well with most devices like laptops, phones, and audio gear without needing an additional amplifier. On the connectivity side, these are primarily wired headphones with a 3.5 mm jack, so you won’t get Bluetooth wireless freedom. They are not water-resistant, so they are best kept away from moisture or heavy sweating. These headphones excel at delivering professional sound quality and comfort with a sturdy build, but if you want wireless features or active noise cancellation, you might want to consider other options. They are especially great for users who prioritize accurate audio monitoring and durability in a wired format.