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Music is integral to my identity. Alongside being a writer and editor, I’m a musician and a passionate record collector. Whether commuting, strolling, or, ahem, writing, music is essential—a constant companion. One perk of my role as an editor is getting to test out the latest headphones, and while I have options for different occasions, I always return to the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2.
You’ve likely seen these cans on YouTubers, DJs, and podcasters—they’re trusted, reliable workhorses known for authentic sound reproduction. But these aren’t just for DJs or musicians; they’re for anyone who values an outstanding listening experience. With the ATH-M50xBT2, the second generation of Audio-Technica’s already-legendary ATH-M50x model, the industry-loved brand has upgraded the sound, technology, and capabilities to create, in my opinion, the perfect everyday headphones. And at a price that’s well below competitors that don’t reach the same level of quality. Let’s dive in.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 Headphones
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Fit/Build
I prefer over-ear headphones. I’m not a fan of frequently intrusive earbuds (though I use them occasionally), and I find that over-ear models tend to deliver a richer, more immersive sound. What they might lack in portability, they usually make up for in substance and sound quality—and these Audio-Technica headphones are no exception.
They’re comfortable enough that I can wear these for hours without feeling any pressure on my ears or head (great for a plane trip). The design is understated, with minimal logos—just enough branding for other audiophiles to recognize that you are one of them. The build feels substantial but not heavy, with leather trim and ear pads that add an elevated touch. While I wouldn’t recommend them for those who value the most portable or lowest-footprint option, they fold up compactly and come with a leather pouch, making them easy to stash in a tote or luggage when needed.
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Battery Life/Mics/Connectivity
The ATH-M50xBT2 headphones have an impressive battery life, offering up to 50 hours on a full charge. When I wear them on numerous commutes, they last most of the week. And if you’re in a rush, a quick 10-minute USB-C charge provides up to 3 hours of playtime, giving you enough juice to get through your commute and workout without recharging. For call quality, they feature an upgraded dual-mic setup with beamforming technology (nerd talk that means your voice comes through even more clearly). Plus, they have built-in Alexa when you require everyone’s favorite virtual assistant. Bluetooth connectivity is also rock-solid with V5.0 (a wireless range up to four times that of any V4.0 iteration). These upgraded ATs also have multipoint pairing (another improvement over the previous model) that allows you to connect to two devices at once—seamlessly switching between your phone and laptop, for example, without needing to constantly reconnect.
Sound
Let’s talk sound—where these cans really shine. The ATH-M50xBT2 retains the critically acclaimed sonic profile of the original model but now boasts new 45mm large-aperture drivers that create a wide soundstage with remarkable clarity. You’ll catch details often missed by other headphones in this price range—and even in luxe headphones in the $600 to $700 range (or over three times the price of the Audio-Technica model) that might look pretty but don’t live up to these sonics.
The bass is deep and accurate without the overinflated boost of many consumer headphones, thanks to an advanced audio DAC (which converts digital files to analog sound waves) and a dedicated internal amp that keeps everything balanced and powerful. If you’re after exaggerated sound, there are plenty of options catering to that. Here, you get a faithful reproduction of sound as it’s meant to be heard—think of these as the consumer version of studio monitors. While not perfectly “flat” (a term for un-boosted frequencies in studio settings), they come close, delivering audio similar to what artists and producers hear in the studio. And if you want to tweak the sound, Audio-Technica’s app lets you customize EQ settings to suit your taste.
With their exceptional and accurate sound quality, durable build, tech upgrades, unassuming yet sleek aesthetics, and price accessibility, these Audio-Technica headphones are hard to beat. There’s a reason DJs, musicians, and music fans alike keep a pair of these in their gear rotation. The ATH-M50xBT2 takes everything that made the original a stalwart and raises the bar, making the headphones well worth the investment for anyone serious about sound. Take these on all your upcoming holiday travels, and thank us later.
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