Audio-Technica ATH-R50x Professional Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones

Audio-Technica ATH-R50x Professional Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones — image 1
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Audio-Technica ATH-R50x Professional Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones — image 7
Audio-Technica ATH-R50x Professional Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones — image 8
Audio-Technica ATH-R50x Professional Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones — image 9
85%
92%
Sound Quality
89%
Comfort for Long Sessions
85%
Build Quality & Durability
91%
Soundstage & Imaging
65%
Noise Isolation
88%
Weight & Portability
90%
Ease of Use (Detachable Cables)
87%
Bass Response
92%
Value for Money
80%
Aesthetic & Design
85%
Compatibility with Audio Equipment
78%
Customer Support & Warranty
More

Overview

The Audio-Technica ATH-R50x Professional Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones are designed for audiophiles and professionals who demand precise, high-quality sound. These professional headphones deliver an open-back design that enhances the soundstage, providing an immersive listening experience. With a lightweight construction of just 207 g, they offer comfort for extended use, making them ideal for long music production sessions or relaxed listening. Their accurate sound reproduction and extended bass are built to meet the needs of anyone seeking true-to-life audio clarity, all while maintaining durability for frequent use.

Features & Benefits

The ATH-R50x headphones feature an open-back design, allowing for a wide and immersive soundstage that audiophiles and professionals will appreciate. The detachable cables, available in two lengths (3.0 m and 1.2 m), make it easy to adjust for various environments. Inside, dynamic drivers work to provide clear midrange and rich bass response, enhancing music production and casual listening alike. The lightweight build ensures that these headphones stay comfortable during long sessions, preventing fatigue. These features combine to offer flexible usage without compromising on sound quality.

Best For

The ATH-R50x headphones are best suited for those who require precise, high-quality sound, such as audio professionals and music producers. They are also a great choice for audiophiles who enjoy an immersive listening experience, with their open-back design enhancing every detail of the audio. Furthermore, these headphones are perfect for users who need a lightweight option for long listening sessions, ensuring comfort without sacrificing sound clarity. Whether you're mixing tracks or enjoying music at home, these headphones fit the bill.

User Feedback

Users have consistently praised the clear and accurate sound reproduction of the ATH-R50x headphones. The comfortable design is frequently highlighted, especially during extended listening sessions, thanks to the well-engineered headband. However, some users note that the open-back design, while offering an immersive soundstage, leads to a lack of noise isolation, which could be a drawback in noisy environments. Overall, feedback leans positive, with many recommending them for both professional use and casual audiophile enjoyment.

#Over-Ear Headphones
#Headphones & Earbuds
#Headphones, Earbuds & Accessories
#Electronics

Pros

  • These headphones provide a highly accurate and clear sound profile, making them ideal for critical listening.
  • The open-back design offers an expansive soundstage, which is appreciated by audiophiles for its depth and realism.
  • At just 207 grams, the lightweight build ensures comfort for long listening or mixing sessions.
  • Detachable cables (3.0 m and 1.2 m) enhance flexibility and convenience for different setups and storage.
  • The headband design is well-engineered, offering a snug yet comfortable fit for extended use.
  • These headphones are perfect for audio professionals or musicians who need precise sound during mixing and mastering.

Cons

  • The open-back design leads to minimal noise isolation, which can be problematic in noisy environments.
  • Some users find the bass response lacking for genres that require heavy low-end, such as EDM or hip-hop.
  • The lack of portability makes these headphones less suitable for travel or commuting.
  • While comfortable for most, some users with larger heads reported a slightly tight fit after extended wear.
  • These headphones are not ideal for public spaces where sound leakage might disturb others.
  • The price point might be high for casual listeners who don’t require the level of detail and precision these headphones provide.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews across multiple languages and platforms, we’ve compiled ratings for the Audio-Technica ATH-R50x Professional Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones. Spam, bot/incentivized, duplicated, or off-topic feedback was filtered out, ensuring that only high-quality and authentic insights contributed to these results. Both strengths and weaknesses are reflected in the scores, providing a well-rounded view of what real users think about this headphone model globally.

Sound Quality
92%
Users rave about the rich, detailed sound profile this model delivers. The dynamic drivers produce a balanced response across midrange and bass, making it ideal for audiophiles. The open-back design contributes to a spacious soundstage, which users find perfect for critical listening and mixing work.
While the sound quality is excellent, some users note that the open-back design leads to sound leakage, which may be distracting in shared spaces. A few buyers also mention that the bass response, though good, could be deeper for those who prefer heavy bass-focused audio.
Comfort for Long Sessions
89%
The lightweight design of these headphones ensures comfort even during extended listening sessions. The new headband design is praised for its even pressure distribution, making them a great choice for professionals who need to wear them for hours at a time. Many buyers also note the soft ear pads, which further enhance comfort.
However, some users find that after long periods of wear, the ear cups can feel slightly warm, especially in hotter environments. A few others also report that the fit may not be perfect for people with larger heads, leading to minor discomfort after extended use.
Build Quality & Durability
85%
The overall build quality is solid, with a durable yet lightweight frame that ensures longevity. Users appreciate the attention to detail, such as the premium-feeling materials used in the ear cups and headband. The detachable cables also add to the product’s durability, allowing easy replacement in case of wear and tear.
On the downside, a few users have expressed concerns about the overall sturdiness of the frame, particularly the plastic components, which feel a bit flimsy. There are occasional reports of the ear pads losing their plushness after extensive use, which affects comfort during longer listening sessions.
Soundstage & Imaging
91%
Many users highlight the exceptional soundstage and imaging, which are key features of the open-back design. The sound feels wide and immersive, making these headphones ideal for music production or critical listening. The precision of instrument separation is particularly appreciated by audio professionals and audiophiles alike.
However, some buyers find the soundstage a bit too open, which can lead to a sense of ‘hollowness’ or lack of focus for certain types of music. The wide soundstage may not be to everyone’s taste, especially those who prefer a more closed, intimate listening experience.
Noise Isolation
65%
35%
For users who prioritize a natural listening experience, the lack of noise isolation is a non-issue. The open-back design ensures a very open, airy sound that many find appealing for enjoying music in quiet environments. The lack of isolation can also feel more comfortable to some listeners, especially for extended periods.
The open-back design, however, leads to minimal noise isolation, which is a significant downside for those looking for headphones that block out external sounds. Users in noisy environments or those looking to use these headphones for commuting often mention that they aren’t suitable for such conditions.
Weight & Portability
88%
The lightweight build of these headphones is often praised for its portability and ease of wear. Weighing just 207 grams, users find them easy to carry around or travel with. Many report that the design does not feel cumbersome, even after hours of continuous use.
That said, their relatively large size makes them less portable compared to on-ear or smaller designs. While the weight itself is light, some users wish for a more compact design, especially for travel where smaller, foldable headphones might be more convenient.
Ease of Use (Detachable Cables)
90%
The detachable cables are a standout feature, adding convenience and flexibility to this headphone model. With both 3.0 m and 1.2 m cables included, users can easily choose the length that suits their needs. This feature is especially useful for music producers or anyone using these headphones in a studio setting where cable length can vary.
While the detachable cables are a great feature, some users feel that the 3.5mm stereo mini-plug could be prone to wear over time, especially with frequent plugging and unplugging. A few users have also noted that the cables can get tangled easily when not properly stored.
Bass Response
87%
The bass response is balanced and tight, which makes these headphones versatile for various types of music. Many users report a clear and controlled bass that complements the overall sound profile without overwhelming other frequencies, making them suitable for mixing and casual listening alike.
On the downside, some bass enthusiasts may find the low-end lacking in depth and punch compared to other headphones in the same price range. While adequate for most, users who prefer a more bass-heavy sound may want to look elsewhere for a more sub-bass focused experience.
Value for Money
92%
For audiophiles and professionals, these headphones offer exceptional value for the price. The combination of premium sound quality, comfort, and a durable build at this price point is appreciated by many buyers. Users feel they are getting a high-quality product that competes with more expensive models in the market.
While the price is generally seen as fair for the quality, some users still find them slightly expensive compared to other over-ear open-back headphones in the same category. A few buyers also mention that the lack of active noise cancellation could be a dealbreaker for those looking for a more all-around headphone for travel or noisy environments.
Aesthetic & Design
80%
20%
The aesthetic design of these headphones is sleek and professional. Users appreciate the simple, understated look that fits well in both studio environments and casual settings. The open-back design adds to the overall clean appearance, with minimal visible wiring.
Some buyers mention that while the design is elegant, it may feel too plain or unremarkable for users looking for more stylish or flashy headphones. A few also find that the build is less robust in appearance compared to other headphones with a more high-end look.
Compatibility with Audio Equipment
85%
The ATH-R50x headphones are compatible with a wide range of audio equipment, from portable devices to professional studio setups. The inclusion of a 6.3mm (1/4″) adapter further enhances versatility, allowing users to connect to more high-end audio gear.
A few users have mentioned that while they are compatible with most audio equipment, the open-back design and lower impedance may not be ideal for very low-powered devices or for use in environments with excessive background noise. Some may need an amplifier for optimal performance.
Customer Support & Warranty
78%
22%
Audio-Technica offers a reliable customer service experience, with most users reporting positive interactions. The warranty provided ensures peace of mind for those purchasing these headphones, and many appreciate the availability of replacement parts.
Despite the generally positive feedback, a few users mention delayed response times or difficulties getting specific issues resolved. Some have experienced trouble with receiving timely support for issues related to product defects, which has left them frustrated.

Suitable for:

The Audio-Technica ATH-R50x Professional Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones are an excellent choice for audiophiles, music producers, and anyone who values sound accuracy and comfort for extended listening. Their dynamic drivers and open-back design deliver an immersive soundstage, making them ideal for critical listening, mixing, or enjoying music in a quiet environment. The lightweight design ensures comfort during long sessions, which is a major plus for professionals who require extended wear, such as music producers or audio engineers. Additionally, the detachable cables offer flexibility and convenience, making these headphones suitable for both studio setups and casual use at home.

Not suitable for:

These headphones may not be the best fit for those who need noise isolation or require headphones for noisy environments. The open-back design, while great for soundstage, results in limited sound isolation, making them unsuitable for commuters or those working in loud spaces. Additionally, users who prioritize deep bass or a more compact, portable design may find these headphones lacking in bass response and portability. Those looking for headphones with active noise cancellation or more isolation for travel or noisy public settings might want to explore other options.

Specifications

  • Type: Over-ear headphones designed for precise audio reproduction and extended bass response.
  • Design: Open-back design for a wide, immersive soundstage with natural acoustics.
  • Driver: Dynamic drivers ensure clear midrange and bass response for high-fidelity sound.
  • Weight: Weighs 207 g, providing a lightweight and comfortable fit for extended listening sessions.
  • Cable Length: Includes detachable cables with lengths of 3.0 m and 1.2 m for flexible usage.
  • Frequency Response: Offers a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, covering the full spectrum of audible sound.
  • Connector: Equipped with a 3.5 mm stereo mini-plug, compatible with a variety of audio devices.
  • Adapter: Comes with a 6.3 mm (1/4″) adapter for compatibility with professional audio equipment.
  • Headband Design: Features a newly designed headband for added comfort during long listening sessions.
  • Impedance: Impedance is optimized for use with professional audio equipment, ensuring proper power handling.
  • Sensitivity: High sensitivity for accurate sound reproduction, particularly useful for critical listening.
  • Build Material: Constructed with durable materials that ensure long-lasting performance, even under frequent use.
  • Sound Isolation: Open-back design limits noise isolation but provides a more natural and expansive listening experience.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with various audio sources including headphones amplifiers, mixing desks, and smartphones.
  • Durability: Lightweight yet sturdy, designed for professional and home use with reliability.

FAQ

These headphones are designed with an open-back structure that provides an immersive and natural soundstage, perfect for audiophiles. The dynamic drivers ensure accurate sound reproduction across a wide frequency range, delivering clear mids and extended bass.

Yes, the ATH-R50x headphones are well-suited for audio professionals like music producers and sound engineers. Their precise sound reproduction and wide soundstage allow for accurate monitoring during mixing and mastering sessions.

The ATH-R50x headphones weigh only 207 grams, which makes them lightweight and comfortable for extended use. The lightweight design reduces strain on your head, allowing for long sessions without discomfort.

Yes, the ATH-R50x comes with detachable cables, one 3.0 m and another 1.2 m, providing flexibility for different setups. This feature also makes storage easier and allows for easy replacement if needed.

The open-back design enhances the soundstage by allowing air and sound waves to pass through the back of the ear cups, creating a more natural, open sound. However, this also means they don’t provide much noise isolation, making them better suited for quiet environments.

While the ATH-R50x headphones can be used with smartphones and portable devices via a 3.5 mm stereo mini-plug, keep in mind that their full potential is realized when paired with high-quality audio equipment. Using them with lower-powered devices may not deliver the best performance.

The well-designed headband on the ATH-R50x provides excellent comfort for long listening sessions. Users report that it distributes weight evenly across the head, preventing discomfort even after hours of use.

The ATH-R50x headphones are not ideal for noisy environments because of their open-back design, which doesn’t offer noise isolation. They are best used in quiet settings where sound leakage and external noise won’t be an issue.

Yes, the ATH-R50x includes a 6.3 mm (1/4″) adapter, making it compatible with audio equipment that uses larger headphone jacks. This provides added versatility for different devices.

For casual listeners, the ATH-R50x headphones may be overkill, as their high level of precision and open-back design is better suited for audiophiles or professionals. They also lack noise isolation, which could be a drawback in public spaces or while traveling.