Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 are on-ear wireless headphones with a classic design. They are durable, will survive bumps and drops to the ground, and the sound quality is one of the best in its price segment.
But, the ATH-M50xBT2 lacks one of the main features – active noise cancellation, which makes it difficult to listen to music on the street and reduces the quality of calls. However, in terms of sound, the model is not inferior to the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose QuietComfort 45 , but is cheaper.
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Contents
Specifications Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2
- Type: Wireless full size
- Drivers: 45mm dynamic
- Impedance: 38 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 99 dB/mW
- Frequency response: 15 – 28,000 Hz
- Bluetooth version: 5.0
- Audio codecs: SBC, AAC and LDAC
- Multipoint Bluetooth connection: Yes
- Microphone: 2 pcs.
- Connector: 3.5 mm, USB-C
- Autonomy of work: 50 hours
- Weight: 307 g
- Price: $199.00
Design and construction
Externally, the wireless Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 resemble classic DJ headphones.
They are almost indistinguishable from the previous ATH-M50xBT and even the original M50. The outer part of the body is made of plastic, and the cups fold inwards. Although the design is not too original, they are comfortable for long listening and suitable for running. Although the cups could be made deeper.
Communication and connection
In terms of connectivity, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 has solved some of the problems of the original ATH-M50xBT.
Previous headphones could not connect to the second device at the same time if already connected to the first – this has been fixed here. On the sides of the cups are control keys, and there is a separate button to call the voice assistant from a smartphone.
There is a full-size 3.5mm input and a cable is included. If you want to watch a movie on TV late at night, the ATH-M50xBT2 is also great for that.
Sound quality
Have you ever rearranged a room and put everything back in place a week later? It seems that in the case of the ATH-M50xBT2 Audio-Technica did just that.
All of the M50 headphones sounded great, but with the penultimate model, the company decided to boost the bass in order to increase the target audience. However, when creating the ATH-M50xBT2, Audio-Technica decided to return to the classic sound, so the ATH-M50xBT2 are similar to the ATH-M50X.
The sound is now not so powerful, but more balanced, it has enough energy. As always, the soundstage is voluminous, so it often feels like you're in a live performance. This is something you won't find in most closed-back headphones.
True, due to the lack of noise reduction, the ATH-M50xBT2 are not suitable for listening to music on the street. Passive isolation is too weak, the model is only suitable for home use.
No noise cancellation
When you go outside with the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2, you will remember every time that they almost do not block external noise.
For wireless headphones of this level, the lack of noise cancellation is a problem. In 2022, this technology can be found on many cheaper models. Active noise canceling lets you block out the hum of cars and people talking, so you can enjoy music in any environment. If this is important to you, the ATH-M50xBT2 is not worth taking.
The lack of ANC is also noticeable during phone calls and conversations. Your interlocutor will hear extraneous noise and the rumble of the wind.
Autonomy Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2
The ATH-M50xBT2 from Audio-Technica does not require frequent charging, with a single recharge of battery power for up to 50 hours of use.
The earbuds automatically go into sleep mode as soon as you take them off. Putting it on again and pressing the control button on the cup, you will hear a voice message that will notify you of the battery level: high, medium or low. A 10 minute quick charge will give you 3 hours of listening to your favorite music.
Outcome
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 is a more thoughtful version of the previous model of the ATH-M50xBT line. The company has ditched artificially boosted bass, so everything sounds more natural, if not as powerful.
The great surround effect creates the feeling of being at a concert, and for listening at home, these are almost perfect headphones. But it makes no sense to use the ATH-M50xBT2 on the street – there was no active noise cancellation in the model. When you like to listen to music in transport or on the street, you should take Sony WH-1000XM4 or Bose QuietComfort 45.
Is it worth buying
If you’re looking for great-sounding over-ear Bluetooth headphones, the ATH-M50xBT2 from Audio-Technica is a must-try. Their simple design and comfortable fit make the listening experience even more enjoyable, while the long battery life with the 3.5mm jack rounds off this model’s capabilities.