Audio-Technica M60x & Audio-Technica M50x share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Audio-Technica M60x rather than the Audio-Technica M50x. 

Why Do I Recommend The Audio-Technica M60x

  • The Audio-Technica ATH-M60x features a more neutral and analytical sound signature for accurate critical listening and precise mixing, while the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x has a slightly V-shaped tuning.
  • Audio-Technica ATH-M60x has a lighter clamp force for improved long-term comfort during continuous use, whereas the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x has a tighter clamp that can cause pressure on the head.
  • It comes with low-profile on-ear pads to maintain better situational awareness in broadcast and live production, while the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x uses thick over-ear pads that block more environmental sound.
  • The Audio-Technica ATH-M60x includes a slimmer, low-profile headband for reduced bulk and easier storage in tight spaces, whereas the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x uses a bulkier padded headband.
  • It has minimal ear cup rotation to maintain a consistent fit and seal during active movements, while the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x has 90° swiveling cups.
  • The Audio-Technica ATH-M60x is built with reinforced components for field durability in ENG and on-location recording, whereas the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is designed with standard studio-grade durability.
  • Audio-Technica ATH-M60x comes with a slimmer connector housing that fits more easily into compact audio devices, while the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x uses a larger connector housing.

Maybe the Audio-Technica M50x price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Audio-Technica M60x. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureAudio-Technica M60xAudio-Technica M50x
Design TypeOn-ear, low-profile closed-backOver-ear, closed-back
Driver Size45 mm large-aperture dynamic drivers45 mm large-aperture dynamic drivers
Frequency Response15 Hz – 28 kHz15 Hz – 28 kHz
Impedance38 ohms38 ohms
Sensitivity102 dB99 dB
Weight (without cable)200 g285 g
Ear Pad TypeMemory foam, leatherette, low-profile on-earThick circumaural leatherette over-ear
Headband PaddingSlim, firm paddingThicker, softer padding
PortabilityNon-foldable ear cupsFoldable ear cups
Sound SignatureNeutral, analyticalSlightly V-shaped, bass-emphasized
Isolation LevelModerateHigher
Cable TypeDetachable with locking mechanismDetachable with locking mechanism
Included Cables1.2 m straight, 3.0 m straight, 1.2 m coiled1.2 m straight, 3.0 m straight, 1.2 m coiled
Connector Housing FitDesigned for slimmer on-ear cupsDesigned for deeper over-ear cups
Clamp ForceLighter clampTighter clamp
Ear Cup RotationMinimal rotation90° swivel capability
Durability Build FocusReinforced for field useStandard studio durability
Primary Target UseBroadcast, ENG, close-contact monitoringStudio recording, mixing, casual listening
PriceCheck Technica M60x PriceCheck Technica M50x Price

What Common Both Can Do?

Driver Size: Both headphones feature 45 mm large-aperture dynamic drivers, delivering detailed and accurate audio reproduction suitable for professional monitoring and casual listening.
Frequency Response: Both models cover a wide 15 Hz – 28 kHz range, enabling them to reproduce deep bass, clear mids, and crisp high frequencies.
Impedance: Both have a 38-ohm impedance, allowing them to be driven easily by portable devices as well as professional studio equipment without the need for a dedicated amplifier.
Detachable Cable System: Both include a locking detachable cable design, providing a secure connection and easy cable replacement for extended product longevity.
Included Cable Options: Both come with three cables—1.2 m straight, 3.0 m straight, and 1.2 m coiled—offering flexibility for different listening environments.
Connector Type: Both use a 3.5 mm gold-plated plug with a screw-on 6.3 mm adapter, ensuring compatibility with both consumer and professional audio setups.
Closed-Back Design: Both employ a closed-back enclosure, reducing sound leakage and providing better sound isolation for focused listening.
Replaceable Ear Pads: Both support ear pad replacement, allowing users to maintain comfort and performance over time.

Common Features

FeatureAudio-Technica M60xAudio-Technica M50x
Driver TypeDynamic, large-apertureDynamic, large-aperture
Driver Size45 mm45 mm
Frequency Response15 Hz – 28 kHz15 Hz – 28 kHz
Impedance38 ohms38 ohms
Cable ConnectionDetachable with locking mechanismDetachable with locking mechanism
Included Cables1.2 m straight, 3.0 m straight, 1.2 m coiled1.2 m straight, 3.0 m straight, 1.2 m coiled
Connector Type3.5 mm gold-plated with screw-on 6.3 mm adapter3.5 mm gold-plated with screw-on 6.3 mm adapter
Closed-Back DesignYesYes
Audio-Technica Build QualityProfessional-grade materialsProfessional-grade materials
Cable Port LocationLeft ear cupLeft ear cup
Replaceable Ear PadsYesYes
CompatibilityWorks with professional audio gear and portable devicesWorks with professional audio gear and portable devices
Price Check Technica M60x Price Check Technika M50x Price

FAQ

Are the Audio-Technica ATH-M60x and ATH-M50x designed for professional use?
Yes, both models are designed for professional audio applications, including studio monitoring, broadcasting, and mixing, but the M60x leans more toward broadcast and on-location monitoring, while the M50x is widely used for studio recording and general listening.

Do both headphones have the same driver size?
Yes, both use 45 mm large-aperture dynamic drivers, ensuring similar technical potential in terms of sound reproduction.

Which model is more lightweight?
The ATH-M60x is lighter at approximately 200 g, while the ATH-M50x weighs about 285 g, making the M60x more comfortable for extended wear in mobile or field use.

Are the cables interchangeable between the two models?
Yes, both use the same detachable locking cable system, so the included cables are interchangeable between the M60x and M50x.

Do they provide the same frequency response?
Yes, both headphones have a frequency response of 15 Hz – 28 kHz, covering a wide range of audible frequencies for balanced sound reproduction.

Which headphone provides better sound isolation?
The ATH-M50x provides better isolation due to its over-ear design, while the ATH-M60x offers moderate isolation from its on-ear fit.

Do both models have a foldable design?
No, the ATH-M50x features foldable ear cups for better portability, while the ATH-M60x has a fixed non-foldable design.

Are the ear pads replaceable on both models?
Yes, both headphones have replaceable ear pads, allowing users to maintain comfort and extend the lifespan of the headphones.

Do both headphones have the same impedance?
Yes, both have a 38-ohm impedance, making them easy to drive from smartphones, laptops, and professional gear without needing an amplifier.

Which model has a more neutral sound signature?
The ATH-M60x has a more neutral and analytical sound tuning, while the ATH-M50x has a slightly V-shaped sound signature with enhanced bass and treble.

Do both come with multiple cable options?
Yes, both include three cables in the box: a 1.2 m straight cable, a 3.0 m straight cable, and a 1.2 m coiled cable.

Are both models closed-back designs?
Yes, both have a closed-back design, helping to prevent sound leakage and providing a more isolated listening experience.

Is the clamp pressure the same for both models?
No, the ATH-M60x has a lighter clamp for comfort during long sessions, while the ATH-M50x has a tighter clamp for a more secure fit.

Do both come with the same connector type?
Yes, both come with a 3.5 mm gold-plated plug and a screw-on 6.3 mm adapter for use with a variety of devices.

Which is better for travel use?
The ATH-M50x is better for travel due to its foldable design and higher isolation, while the ATH-M60x is better for compact studio or broadcast work where portability is less critical.

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