Audio-Technica ATH-M50x vs Sony MDR-7506
We compare the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x and Sony MDR-7506 head-to-head on performance, features, value, and more. Here's which one wins.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Scored 9.3/10 in our testing
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Best studio headphone for most people — the industry standard all-purpose closed-back monitor
Sony MDR-7506
Best budget studio headphone — the broadcast industry standard since 1991
Score Breakdown
| Audio-Technica ATH-M50x | Category | Sony MDR-7506 |
|---|---|---|
| 9.3/10 ✓ | Performance | 8.8/10 |
| 9/10 ✓ | Features | 8/10 |
| 9/10 | Ease of Use | 9/10 |
| 9.5/10 | Value | ✓ 9.8/10 |
| 9.3/10 ✓ | Overall | 8.8/10 |
Specs Comparison
| Audio-Technica ATH-M50x | Spec | Sony MDR-7506 |
|---|---|---|
| Closed-back | Type | Closed-back, semi-circumaural |
| 38Ω | Impedance | 63Ω |
| 15–28,000 Hz | Frequency Response | 10–20,000 Hz |
| 45mm | Driver | 40mm |
| Detachable (3 cables included) | Cable | Coiled cable, 1/4" adapter included |
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Pros
- + Industry standard — used in studios worldwide
- + Detachable cables — 3 included for versatility
- + Foldable — travels well
- + Balanced, accurate sound for the price
Cons
- − Clamping force can be tight initially
- − Non-rotating ear cups can be less comfortable for long sessions vs competitors
- − Bass can be slightly elevated vs truly flat studio monitors
Sony MDR-7506
Pros
- + Broadcast industry standard — proven over 30+ years
- + Replacement parts still available — can last decades
- + Extremely accurate detail retrieval
- + Folds flat, very portable for the price
Cons
- − Coiled cable is the only option (non-detachable)
- − Slight high-frequency peak can cause listening fatigue over long sessions
- − Pleather ear pads wear quickly (but replaceable)
Our Verdict
Based on our scoring, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x comes out on top with an overall score of 9.3/10. The ATH-M50x has been the world's best-selling professional studio headphone for over a decade — and for good reason. The 45mm large-aperture drivers deliver accurate, detailed sound across the full frequency range. The closed-back design provides adequate isolation for tracking and editing. Three detachable cables (coiled long, straight long, straight short) cover every use case. Folds flat for portability. Used by producers, podcasters, and engineers in every studio tier globally.
Buy the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x on AmazonRead the full Best Studio Headphones 2026 guide for complete reviews of all 10 products.
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