Audio-Technica ATH M50xBT2 Specifications, Tests and Review

Product Audio-Technica ATH M50xBT2 are wireless headphones with a detachable cable, which combines the advantages of both solutions. The wireless connection option offers freedom of movement while increasing the comfort of use. The detachable cable then provides a listening alternative in the event of a low battery caused by wireless listening. The technology used for the sound transmission used by the headphones is Bluetooth 5.0. The maximum range of the headphones is up to 10 m. This range represents the distance from the sound source at which the headphones with wireless sound transmission can be used. However, the maximum range may be affected by obstacles such as walls or people, etc.

The design of the headphones is around the ears. Because of this design, the headphone envelops the entire ear and isolates the ear better from surrounding noise when listening compared to for example on-ear headphones. With that, they offer high-quality listening without interference. However, they are most likely heavier by design and less practical for frequent carrying. The weight of the headphones is 307 g. Although these are over-the-head headphones that are normally characterized by their bulky nature, this model can be folded into a more compact form. This makes them easier to fit into a backpack or bag

The sound quality can be affected by many factors. When it comes to frequency range, the wider it is, the more detail you will hear when listening. However, the range a person can perceive is highly individual. The average person is able to perceive frequencies in the range of 16 to 20 000 Hz. So the most common frequency range you will see on the market is 20 to 20,000 Hz. Lower frequencies up to approximately 256 Hz are considered bass frequencies. Therefore, the lower the bottom value is, the better the headphones will reproduce bass. Conversely, values from approximately 2 048 Hz upwards are treble. That is why headphones with a high upper value will provide a much more accurate reproduction of high notes. Audio-Technica ATH M50xBT2 offers a frequency range of 15 - 28000 Hz. The sensitivity parameter determines how sensitively the headphones can receive the signal from the source. The higher the sensitivity value, the louder the headphones will be able to play with less power consumption. In general, a higher listening volume also means a higher power load for the connected device. So if you're buying headphones to listen to music from your mobile phone, for example, this is relevant to think about as you don't want to drain your phone's battery too much. Lower values around 85 dB are more suitable for listening in more quiet environments (for example, at home or in the office). Medium values of around 90 dB can provide good listening quality in noisier environments (for example, on public transport or in cafés). Headphones with high sensitivity values of around 100 dB or more are designed for really noisy environments, such as concerts. The Audio-Technica ATH M50xBT2 has 99 dB/mW.

The device connected to the headphones also plays a role most times. The lower impedance value (approximately 100 to 150 Ohms) is suitable for playback from mobile phones, laptops or other portable players that do not have a powerful enough amplifier. The lower impedance will ensure that the required volume level is achieved with less power, thus extending the life of the player. However, at the same time, with lower impedance, there is more distortion of the sound. Headphones with a higher impedance of around 250 Ohms and above are then more suitable for playback from really powerful signal sources or using a headphone amplifier, otherwise the sound coming out of them might not be loud enough. At the same time, higher-impedance headphones will also ensure less distortion in the sound. In the case of these headphones, the impedance reaches the 38 Ohm value.

An important part of these headphones is the diaphragm, which, simply put, converts the electrical signal into a sound. The thin diaphragm that is around 6 mm thick can react quickly to changes in the audio signal and improves high-frequency listening. However, it is less sensitive to bass. The medium-thick diaphragm of around 10 mm provides a fairly balanced sound profile, allowing you to enjoy both bass and treble. A thicker diaphragm of around 20 mm cannot react so quickly to changes in the sound signal, thus impairing bass listening. However, it is more sensitive to higher frequencies. This model features the 45 mm.

The design of the headphones and their ear cups can also affect the quality of the audio output. The closed design does not allow ambient noise or sound from the headphones to flow outwards. Not only will you enjoy music in noisy environments, but you won't disturb anyone while enjoying listening session. The closed-back design makes the headphones suitable for the office or for travel.

The microphone sensitivity is -38 dBV/Pascal. A lower microphone sensitivity will generally ensure that even quieter sounds are caught. On the other hand, in noisier environments, distortion of the recording may occur. With a higher sensitivity, the microphone will not distort the recording even in noisy environments. On the other hand, the microphone will not pick up quieter sounds. So it depends on the environment and the purposes you plan to use the headphones for.

Demanding users and technology enthusiasts will appreciate an intelligent assistant with whom they can partially control connected devices. For example, they can adjust the volume or request information about messages or alerts.

In terms of headphone battery life as a significant factor in the purchase decision, it depends on what you want to use the headphones for and potentially how often you will be able to recharge them. Headphones with up to a few hours of battery life are more suitable for home use as they will require more frequent charging. Headphones with a battery life of around 10 hours or more are already more suitable for commuting and shorter journeys. However, nowadays you can also find headphones on the market that have a battery life in the higher tens to hundreds of hours. In this case, you do not have to worry about your headphones simply running out of power on longer journeys, and you will not have to deal with constant recharging. The battery life of the Audio-Technica ATH M50xBT2 reaches up to 50 hour(s).

Charging time is 3.5 hour(s).