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Best Audio-Technica headphones
Few audio companies are as respected as Audio-Technica. When it comes to studio headphones, audio engineers and enthusiasts alike are bound to praise the Japanese company. The fandom is well-earned, too, as Audio-Technica puts performance and dependability first time and time again with its premium audio products, drawing professionals to the brand like a band of cats to tuna.
Editor’s note: This article was updated on July 30, 2024, to add a section on the ATH-TWX7 earbuds.
Why is the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 the best Audio-Technica headphones?
If you’re familiar with the audio community, then you’ve heard of the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2. The wireless version of the headphones is one of the most recognizable studio cans around. When you stream over Bluetooth, you get your choice of the SBC, AAC, and LDAC codecs for high-quality audio on any operating system.
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Housed within each ear cup is a 45mm dynamic driver that reproduces exceptional audio quality for professional use. If you’re looking for a pair of consumer cans with markedly exaggerated highs and lows, the ATH-M50xBT2 isn’t it. While the bass response is a bit more emphasized than its little sibling, the ATH-M40x, its main purpose is for studio mixing so audio engineers can accurately create a sound.
The synthetic ear cup material may not be the most comfortable, seeing as it heats up fairly quickly. Still, it isolates the listener from external noise well enough for professional studio use. You can rotate the swivel ear cups and even flip them up, letting you hear your surroundings when live mixing. If you need something rugged and reliable that works anywhere, get this headset.
The microphone is good for standard phone calls, and you can even enable sidetone through the mobile app to hear yourself on the call.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 microphone demo (Non-standardized):
How does the microphone sound to you?
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 offers virtually the same design and frequency response as the ATH-M50x but with wired and wireless connectivity options, so you can choose depending on the context.
The ATH-M50xBT2 ditches the proprietary cable connection in favor of a conventional 3.5mm TRS connector. You get some playback controls on the ATH-M50xBT2, which aren’t found on the ATH-M50x or any of its cables. Anyone needing a microphone for Zoom calls can take advantage of the included mic system on the ATH-M50xBT2. If you don’t need wireless over-ear headphones, the ATH-M50x might be the better pick and costs less.
Both products are closed-back studio headphones that retail for around the same price — between $150 and $160. The Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO has a more consistent output, especially with midrange frequencies. When you listen to the DT 770 PRO, you may notice a louder treble response, but this is fairly easy to equalize. This makes the DT 770 Pro ideal for more critical listening applications, such as production sound mixing and broadcast. On the other hand, the ATH-M50x is popular amongst EDM artists and DJs because of its boosted bass, relative to the mids, which allows percussion and bass lines to cut through a mix — a must-have when trying to keep track of tempo during a live performance.
Get studio sound on a budget with the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
There’s no point in fixing what isn’t broken, and Audio-Technica embraced that sentiment when it released the ATH-M40x. This pair of headphones retains the same 45mm drivers found in the original version and offers very respectable sound for such a low price. For $99, there’s not a ton of competition here outside of the Sony MDR-7506.
Unfortunately, the headphone jack is disappearing from phones, so this may be an at-home-only type deal if you have an iPhone or Note 10. If you like these headphones and want to find a phone that fits them, be sure to check out our picks for the best handsets.
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The ATH-TWX9 are the best Audio-Technica earbuds
When it comes to wireless earbuds that check nearly all the boxes, the Audio-Technica ATH-TWX9 is a top-tier contender. First off, the sound quality is nothing short of impressive, harmonizing well with an array of music genres. It also offers robust codec support, including SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX Adaptive, making it a versatile pick for both iOS and Android users.
The ATH-TWX9 takes customization seriously. With a whopping 12 pairs of ear tips, you’ll get a fit that’s just right, whether you’re pounding the treadmill or navigating a noisy subway. The ear tips come in various widths and depths, allowing for a seal that brings out the best in its decent active noise canceling capabilities. The IPX4 rating means these buds won’t balk at a little sweat or drizzle, either.
The Audio-Technica Connect app adds a wealth of customization options, from EQ presets to distinct active noise canceling profiles suited to different environments. On the flip side, the earbuds and their charging case are dust magnets, so keeping them pristine might be a chore. Battery life could also be better, clocking in at about 5 hours 24 minutes in real-world tests against the claimed 6 hours.
They may not be cheap, but what you get is an exceptionally well-rounded, Android-friendly pair of wireless earbuds that are worth every penny.
Want more affordable earbuds? Get the Audio-Technica ATH-TWX7
If you’re looking for Audio-Technica quality at a more wallet-friendly price point, consider the ATH-TWX7. These earbuds offer much of the same core functionality as their pricier sibling, the ATH-TWX9, but without some of the extra bells and whistles.
The ATH-TWX7 delivers on the essentials with good sound quality, effective active noise cancelation, and a secure fit that’s great for workouts. You still get high-quality codec support with LDAC, AAC, and SBC, ensuring excellent audio performance across various devices. The companion app offers useful features like custom EQ settings, ambient sound control, and firmware updates.
While you’ll miss out on some premium features like deep-UV sterilization, Snapdragon Sound, and the extensive 12-size ear tip selection, the ATH-TWX7 comes with a respectable eight ear tip options. The battery life is shorter, and it uses Bluetooth 5.1 instead of 5.2, but for many users, these trade-offs may be worthwhile for the cost savings.
At $199, the ATH-TWX7 represents a solid value for those who want Audio-Technica quality without breaking the bank. Suppose you don’t need the extra features of the TWX9 and can live with slightly fewer ear tip options and shorter battery life. In that case, the TWX7 offers an excellent balance of performance and affordability.
The Audio-Technica ATH-GL3 is best for gaming
If you are looking for an entry-level gaming headset, the Audio-Technica ATH-GL3 delivers. The combination of high-quality sound, a detachable microphone, and easily accessible controls add a level of convenience that every gamer will appreciate.
Want to jump from your PS5 to a Zoom call without juggling headsets? No problem. The ATH-GL3 comes with two types of 3.5mm cables, making it compatible with a wide range of devices. You can control volume and mute functions directly on the ear cup, and the cable and ear pads are easily replaceable, offering a future-proof solution for avid gamers.
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The ATH-GL3’s lightweight plastic design makes it comfy for short gaming sessions, but be aware of its limitations. The headband lacks cushioning, and heat can build up due to its closed-back design. Still, for many, these are small sacrifices for superior noise isolation and audio quality.
The ATH-GL3 really shines in its sound performance. Whether you’re strategizing in “Halo” or dodging blows in “Elden Ring,” the audio is spot-on. The closed-back design locks you into the game world, ensuring you don’t miss a beat—or a footstep. Although it doesn’t offer built-in software for EQ adjustments, the sound is balanced enough that you might not even miss it.
The Audio-Technica ATH-GDL3 or the ATH-GL3 are both open-back, entry-level gaming headsets. Though the two are quite similar on a spec sheet, the former sounds very treble and bass-heavy, while the latter is much more “neutral” in its sound. Additionally, the latter also isolates you from outside noise better by virtue of the fact that it has a closed back. However, the ATH-GDL3 does a better job at simulating 3D space when you’re in-game, so FPS players may appreciate the open-backed headset a bit more for this attribute alone.
The best bang for your buck is the Audio-Technica ATH-M20XBT
The Audio-Technica ATH-M20XBT is for the frugal audiophile. It’s an ideal choice if you need a dependable, no-nonsense Bluetooth headset that doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket. With USB-C fast charging, you can get 3 hours of use with just a 10-minute charge.
These headphones are mostly plastic, matte black, and lightweight at just 216 grams. Don’t let that fool you; they’re rugged and can withstand the daily grind of commuting or extended use. The large battery ensures that you’ll not only rarely run out of juice but also extend the operating lifespan of the headphones. And while they don’t fold, their durability more than makes up for a slightly cumbersome form factor.
The ATH-M20XBT does have its limitations. The ear pads can be too tight for some, but they are easily replaceable with a broad array of options. They also block out a fair amount of high-frequency noise, making them apt for relatively quiet environments. The sound quality is respectable for its price range, though it may lack sub-bass and high-frequency finesse. But hey, at around $100, you’re getting way more than what you’re paying for.
The best Audio-Technica headphones: Notable mentions
- Audio-Technica ATH-AD900x ($189 at Amazon): Beneath each grill on these open-back headphones is a huge 53mm dynamic driver and CCAW voice coils for clear audio reproduction with a wide soundstage.
- Audio-Technica ATH-ANC900BT ($179 at Amazon): These ANC headphones can combat lower rumbles and include touch controls for music playback and wireless calls. The flat-folding design also makes them excellent travel companions.
- Audio-Technica ATH-CLR100iSBK ($14 at Amazon): Despite their compact size, these wired earbuds have relatively large 8.5mm drivers that pump out clear sound. What’s more, the company includes an integrated one-button mic and remote module for hands-free calling and basic playback controls. For less than $20, it’s a solid deal for people who just want a basic headset.
- Audio-Technica ATH-M30x ($79 at Amazon): This pair of wired headphones compromises build quality but delivers a similar sound to the beloved M40x. If you don’t care for a detachable cable and sleeker design, the extra money saved is a good thing.
- Audio Technica ATH-R70x: These open-back studio headphones are for professionals. They provide accurate audio reproduction and unparalleled comfort that will complement any studio setup.
- Audio-Technica ATH-WP900: Aimed at studio professionals, these cans feature large 53mm drivers that deliver a wide soundstage and balanced overall frequency response suited for mixing and mastering applications.
- Audio-Technica ATH-ANC300TW: These true wireless earbuds are equipped with the company’s neutral sound signature, an IPX2 water-resistance rating, and active noise canceling that is comparable to the Sony WF-1000XM4.
- Audio-Technica ATH-SQ1TW: This pair of wireless earbuds doesn’t have many features, but it sounds great and has an IPX4-equivalent rating, making it a solid option for exercise, too.
The ATH-M70x is a very good headset, but its price-to-performance ratio holds it back from being one of the best headsets around. See, the ATH-M70x has a premium build that looks nicer than the ATH-M50x and its cheaper siblings, but it doesn’t stand out relative to other premium headphones. We are also not that impressed by the treble-heavy frequency response we don’t hear from other Audio-Technica cans. Ultimately, if you’re going to spend this much on a pair of barebones headphones, we recommend the Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X or save some money with the ATH-M50x.
What you should know about Audio-Technica headphones
Like any other headphones on the market, Audio-Technica headphones have a few foibles, oddities, and items of note to pay attention to. Here are the main things you should know before diving in.
How should Audio-Technica headphones sound?
Like other household-name headphone brands, Audio-Technica has a signature sound. Many of its headsets have a fairly even output across the bass and midrange with some under-emphasis around 300Hz. Usually, the treble response is boosted a bit, but this is normal among pretty much all headsets, and it isn’t so emphasized that it’s painful to hear. Audio-Technica made its name on versatile, utilitarian products at a reasonable price. Its headphones keep their value, and they resell well.
Do these headphones need an amp?
No, none of these headsets require an amp or DAC, keeping things reasonably priced.
What Bluetooth codecs matter for wireless headphones?
When it comes to wireless options, look for high-quality Bluetooth codecs. As it stands, wireless cans can’t compete with the quality of wired alternatives. Getting a set with aptX compatibility for Android users or AAC support for iPhones will mitigate any perceptible audio-visual lag.
How we choose the best Audio-Technica headphones
Seeing as Audio-Technica has a legacy of studio headphones and various accouterments, it’s hard to narrow it down to just five picks. That said, we tried to account for a wide variety of listeners, from traveling audio enthusiasts to the casual listener who just wants an easy pair of earbuds to listen with. If we omitted your favorite pair of headphones, be sure to shoot us a line in the comments since we maintain these best lists as living documents.
You may find that you want another set of headphones or that Audio-Technica only offers certain models near you, and that’s fine! The company doesn’t really make bad headphones, so you should give the others a whirl if you can.
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Frequently asked questions about Audio-Technica headphones
No, it doesn’t matter if all of your studio equipment is from the same brand or not — compatibility should be no issue so long as you’re using a USB interface to record from an XLR mic. What’s more important is that you like each individual product you buy and they serve your particular needs. You may be able to get deals on Audio-Technica products if you buy microphones and headphones in a set, though.
Because the Audio Technica ATH-M40x lacks a built-in microphone, this headphone would not be ideal for conference calls — unless you were planning to use an external microphone. If you want a good pair of Audio Technica headphones for such a use case, consider the Audio Technica ATH-M50x, which features a decent built-in microphone. For more alternatives, be sure to check out our list of the best Bluetooth headphones for conference calls.
A lot of users have reported that the Audio-Technica ATH-M40X had a flatter sound signature than the ATH-M50xBT, which results in a more accurate reproduction of your mix — ideal for home studio applications. The M50xBT is also good for basic home mixing applications and casual listening — especially with its inclusion of Bluetooth. If you’re still unsure, visit your local audio shop and try these cans out for yourself! At the end of the day, the best studio headphones are the ones that cater to your needs.
Audio-Technica generally offers a neutral and detailed sound profile, making them great for studio work or music enthusiasts who prefer an uncolored sound. They also often provide good value for the price.
Sennheiser, on the other hand, is known for its signature warm sound profile and higher-end build quality. They are often preferred for a wide range of applications, from professional audio work to high-fidelity listening.
Neither is universally “better”—it’s about what you’re looking for in a pair of headphones. Choose Audio-Technica for neutral sound and cost-effectiveness; go with Sennheiser for a more colored sound and premium build.