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Audio-Technica ATH-M40x vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

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Product A: Audio-Technica

ATH-M40x

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Product B: Audio-Technica

ATH-M50x

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Only differences

AAudio-Technica ATH-M40x

BAudio-Technica ATH-M50x

General

3 of 8 differ

Series

M-Series7Press articlemusicradar.com/news/tech/namm-2014-audio-technica-reveals-new-m-series-headphones-591670Read 23 October 2026Describes the ATH-M40x as part of the overhauled M-Series range.

M-Series5Press articleprosoundweb.com/audio-technica-introduces-next-generation-m-series-headphonesRead 6 October 2026Audio-Technica has remastered its M-Series line of professional monitor headphones

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

ATH-M40x2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Model number (型番): ATH-M40x

ATH-M50x, ATH-M50xWH, ATH-M50xBB, ATH-M50xMG1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Model numbers ATH-M50x and ATH-M50x WH. The maker writes the white model with a space. The US launch release writes ATH-M50xWH2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xMGRead 6 October 2026ATH-M50xMG is a limited matte grey colour model (限定カラーモデル) with the same specification table as ATH-M50x. Japanese release date 2016-02-193Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xBBRead 6 October 2026ATH-M50xBB is a limited production model in metallic blue with matte black, with the same specification table as ATH-M50x. Japanese release date 2018-04-13. No JAN code is published

GTIN / EAN

49613101254242Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026JAN code (JANコード) 4961310125424

4961310125431, 4961310125455, 49613101334501Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026JAN codes 4961310125431 (ATH-M50x) and 4961310125455 (ATH-M50x WH)2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xMGRead 6 October 2026The JAN code is published as T4961310133450. The leading T is not part of an EAN-13. The remaining 13 digits have a valid check digit

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

January 20147Press articlemusicradar.com/news/tech/namm-2014-audio-technica-reveals-new-m-series-headphones-591670Read 23 October 2026Published 23 January 2014. It reproduces the maker press release dated 20-01-2014: the ATH-M20x, ATH-M30x, ATH-M40x and ATH-M50x make their debut at Winter NAMM 2014. The month is stored, as for the sibling models.

January 20149Press articlemusicradar.com/news/tech/namm-2014-audio-technica-reveals-new-m-series-headphones-591670Read 7 October 2026January 2014. Article published January 23 reproduces the maker launch release dated January 20. The month is stored because other January previews predate the release date.

Status

Available1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Sold on the maker US store at $109.00 on the access date. The Japanese page marks the model as production ended (生産完了), so it is a Japan-only end of production.

Available1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Both colours are buyable in the maker's Japanese online store on the access date7Retailer pagemusiciansfriend.com/pro-audio/audio-technica-ath-m50x-closed-back-studio-monitoring-headphonesRead 6 October 2026In stock in the US store on the access date

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$1396Press articleprosoundweb.com/audio-technica-introduces-next-generation-m-series-headphonesRead 23 October 2026Article of 7 February 2014: the models are available in February 2014 at these U.S. MSRPs: ATH-M20x $69, ATH-M30x $99, ATH-M40x $139, ATH-M50x $239. Radio World of 25 February 2014 gives the same list. SoundGuys lists an MSRP of $99 for the ATH-M40x, which matches the ATH-M30x price and is not used.

$2395Press articleprosoundweb.com/audio-technica-introduces-next-generation-m-series-headphonesRead 6 October 2026U.S. MSRP: ATH-M50x $239 and ATH-M50xWH $239. Street prices were lower

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

Not available

JP, US1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Sold in the maker's Japanese online store5Press articleprosoundweb.com/audio-technica-introduces-next-generation-m-series-headphonesRead 6 October 2026U.S. MSRP published for the launch7Retailer pagemusiciansfriend.com/pro-audio/audio-technica-ath-m50x-closed-back-studio-monitoring-headphonesRead 6 October 2026US store

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black8Retailer pagethomannmusic.com/audio_technica_ath_m40_x.htmRead 23 October 2026Thomann spec table (item 331904): Colour Black.

Black, White7Retailer pagemusiciansfriend.com/pro-audio/audio-technica-ath-m50x-closed-back-studio-monitoring-headphonesRead 6 October 2026Colour options Black and White. The maker's Japanese page names the white model WH (ホワイト)

Segment

Studio1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026The perfect studio headphones for professional tracking, mixing and monitoring.

Studio1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Product category: Professional monitor headphones (プロフェッショナルモニターヘッドホン)

Design

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Form factor

Over-ear1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Over-ear wired headphones with a circumaural design.

Over-ear6Retailer pagethomannmusic.com/audio_technica_ath_m50_x.htmRead 6 October 2026Circumaural. Design: Over-Ear8Reviewsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m50x-592Read 7 October 2026Reviewed under Over-ear headphones

Ear cup enclosureiClosed, open or semi-open acoustic enclosure. This does not describe how the headset folds.

Closed1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Type Closed-back dynamic

Closed1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Type: closed dynamic (密閉ダイナミック型)

Wearing style

Headband1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Headband headphones with 90 degree swiveling earcups and a collapsible design.

Headband8Reviewsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m50x-592Read 7 October 2026Metal notched headband adjustments with hinges for folding and fit

FoldingiFlat means the ear cups rotate flat. Inward means the ear cups fold toward the headband.

Flat and inward1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Features: 90 degree swiveling earcups and collapsible for space-saving portability. The Japanese page describes a 90 degree flip mechanism and a folding mechanism, and the manual shows the swivel housing and the folded position. The value follows the ATH-M50x entry, which has the same mechanism.4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 23 October 2026The model chart gives the ATH-M40x items B, C, F and G. G is the folded position, with the text that the headphones can be folded for storage.

Flat and inward1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Folding mechanism (折りたたみ機構) and a 90 degree reversible monitor mechanism. Gallery images are captioned as folded. SoundGuys describes both movements8Reviewsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m50x-592Read 7 October 2026You can flip the closed-back ear cups 90 degrees in either direction from neutral, and the arms articulate to fold it down

Swivelling ear cupsiEar cups can rotate relative to the headband. Tilting alone does not count.

Yes1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Features: 90 degree swiveling earcups for easy, one-ear monitoring. The Japanese page gives 90 degrees forward and 15 degrees backward.4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 23 October 2026Part names show the swivel housing.

Yes1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Ear cups turn 90 degrees front and back for one-ear monitoring (前後90度の反転モニター機構)

RGB lighting

Not available

Not available

Lighting zonesiNumber of independently controllable lighting areas across both ear cups.

Not available

Not available

Drivers and sound

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Driver type

Dynamic1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Type Closed-back dynamic3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Type Closed-back dynamic

Dynamic1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Type: closed dynamic

Driver sizeiDiameter of the largest sound driver. Do not use the microphone capsule diameter.

40mm1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Driver Diameter 40 mm3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Driver Diameter 40 mm

45mm1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Driver: 45 mm, CCAW voice coil

Drivers per sideiNumber of sound-producing transducers in one side, excluding microphones.

Not available

111Reviewifixit.com/Teardown/Audio-Technica+ATH-M50x+Teardown/135646Read 7 October 2026Complete speaker disassembly in steps 2 and 3 removes one speaker. Step 4 repeats those steps for the other earpiece. No extra sound transducer is listed.

Diaphragm material

Not available

Not available

Magnet

Neodymium1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Magnet Neodymium3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Magnet Neodymium

Neodymium6Retailer pagethomannmusic.com/audio_technica_ath_m50_x.htmRead 6 October 202645 mm driver with neodymium magnet system and CCAW voice coils

Frequency response (wired or passive)iPublished acoustic range for wired listening, or the maker’s single range when no mode is distinguished. Power state and test standard belong in the source note.

Min15 HzMax24 kHz1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Frequency Response 15 - 24,000 Hz3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Frequency Response 15 - 24,000 Hz

Min15 HzMax28 kHz1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026

Wireless audio transmission bandiFrequency range of audio transmitted over the wireless connection, not the acoustic response of the driver. Codec, sampling rate and bitrate conditions belong in the source note. When the maker gives a range per codec, the widest range is stored and its codec goes in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Impedance (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off value for a passive analog connection when the maker publishes both powered and passive values. Note the power state and test frequency.

35Ω1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Impedance 35 ohms3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Impedance 35 ohms

38Ω1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026

Sensitivity (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off figure when both powered and passive values exist. The power or voltage reference, test distance and frequency belong in the source note.

98dB1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Sensitivity 98 dB. The Japanese page gives 98 dB/mW.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Sensitivity 98 dB

99dB1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Output sound pressure level: 99 dB/mW

Sensitivity referenceiPublished power or voltage reference for sensitivity. Do not assume 1 mW when the source gives only a dB value.

Per 1 mW2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Published as 98 dB/mW (出力音圧レベル 98dB/mW)

Per 1 mW1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Published as 99 dB/mW

THD (claimed)iPublished distortion figure or numerical upper bound. The source note states any less-than sign and test level.

Not available

Not available

Max input power

1,600mW1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Maximum Input Power 1,600 mW at 1 kHz3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Maximum Input Power 1,600 mW at 1 kHz

1,600mW1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Maximum input: 1,600 mW10Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 7 October 2026PDF page 7: 1600 mW at 1 kHz. The existing value is unchanged.

Max digital audio sample rateiHighest supported digital audio sample rate over a USB cable or wireless dongle. This is not the microphone rate or acoustic frequency response.

Not available

Not available

Max digital audio bit depthiHighest published digital playback bit depth over a USB cable or wireless dongle.

Not available

Not available

DAC

Not available

Not available

Personalised soundiA manufacturer-supported hearing test or ear scan creates a device sound profile tailored to the listener. Generic equalizer adjustments do not count.

Not available

Not available

Onboard EQiCustom playback EQ profiles stored in the headset and applied without the host app running. Note supported active connections. Receiver-only or software-only EQ does not count.

Not available

Not available

Custom EQ bandsiNumber of bands in the custom playback equalizer. Microphone EQ bands are excluded.

Not available

Not available

EQ presets

Not available

Not available

Volume limit

Not available

Not available

Spatial audio

1 of 3 differ

Spatial audio supportiNamed headset or host spatial-audio systems that the maker or reviewer explicitly supports. A platform feature may require compatible hardware, software or a separate licence.

Not available

Immerse Virtual Studio1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Supports the Immerse Virtual Studio VST plug-in for compatible DAW software. Host processing simulates studio monitor sound fields. It is not onboard processing or a bundled paid licence.

Spatial audio licence includediA paid spatial-audio licence is bundled or embedded. Compatibility with a separately purchased app does not count.

Not available

Not available

Head tracking

Not available

Not available

Noise cancelling

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Active noise cancelling

No1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Passive wired studio headphones with no electronics.

No8Reviewsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m50x-592Read 7 October 2026Passive isolation only, without active noise cancelling

ANC typeiFeedforward uses outside microphones. Feedback uses inside microphones. Hybrid uses both. Voice-call noise filtering is separate.

Not available

Not available

ANC microphonesiTotal microphones used for active playback noise cancellation across both sides. Do not substitute the total physical or voice microphone count.

Not available

Not available

Adaptive ANCiNoise cancellation automatically changes with the environment or fit. Manually choosing a level does not count.

Not available

Not available

ANC levelsiNumber of adjustable cancellation strength steps. Off and transparency modes are excluded.

Not available

Not available

ANC attenuation (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Transparency mode

Not available

Not available

Adjustable transparency

Not available

Not available

Conversation detectioniAudio pauses or lowers automatically when the wearer speaks. Voice assistant activation does not count.

Not available

Not available

Wind noise reduction

Not available

Not available

Measured

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Frequency response notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Follows the SoundGuys studio preference curve closely. Deviations in the sub-bass and between 200 and 600 Hz. Bass is audible but subdued, the lower mids get a modest boost at 100 to 200 Hz and the treble is pleasantly emphasized.9Measurementsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m40x-review-1494Read 23 October 2026SoundGuys lab review, byline dated 31 January 2025, against its studio headphone preference curve. The graphs are script charts, so the text is the source: closely follows the curve with deviation in the sub-bass and in the 200 to 600 Hz midrange, bass subdued, lower mids boosted at 100 to 200 Hz, treble pleasantly emphasized.

Follows the SoundGuys house curve fairly closely. Less bass below 100 Hz with a roll-off below 40 Hz. A slight dip at 300 to 400 Hz, about 3 dB less at 3 kHz and a notch at 6 kHz.8Reviewsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m50x-592Read 7 October 2026SoundGuys measurement against its house curve. Review updated 2024-08-06

Bass amountiReviewer’s bass deviation from its stated target. Positive is more bass. Target and test method belong in the source note.

Not available

0dB13Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/audio-technica/ath-m50xRead 10 October 2026Test bench 2.3. Public featured result Bass Amount: Balanced (0 dB), relative to the RTINGS target curve, as shown in whole dB. Detailed numeric results are behind the RTINGS paywall and were not used

Treble amountiReviewer’s treble deviation from its stated target. Positive is more treble. Target and test method belong in the source note.

Not available

0dB13Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/audio-technica/ath-m50xRead 10 October 2026Test bench 2.3. Public featured result Treble Amount: Balanced (0 dB), relative to the RTINGS target curve, as shown in whole dB. Detailed treble sub-band results are behind the RTINGS paywall and were not used

Deviation from targetiReviewer’s full-range error from its target curve. Do not substitute a regional bass or treble error.

Not available

Not available

Consistency between fittingsiReviewer’s standard deviation across repeated fittings. Test rig and fitting procedure belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Harmonic distortioniIndependently measured harmonic distortion, with test level and method in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Sound leakageiIndependently measured leakage at 30 cm. Playback level and method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Measured noise isolationiIndependently measured attenuation. Positive values mean more noise reduction. ANC state, rig and frequency bands belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Noise isolation (measured, best)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Passive isolation (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic quality notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic low-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic high-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic speech-to-noise ratioiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured latencyiEnd-to-end latency measured by a reviewer for a specific connection, platform and codec. Firmware, method and operating mode belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth latency (measured, worst)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

2.4 GHz latency (measured, worst)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured battery lifeiReviewer’s continuous playback test. State the connection, ANC and lighting where known. Unknown settings stay omitted and are described in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Battery life (measured, max)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Clamping forceiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Weight (measured)iIndependently weighed headset. A review that repeats the maker’s number does not qualify. Cable and microphone inclusion belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Microphone

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MicrophoneiMain microphone used for speech. Secondary internal microphones may be described in the source note.

None1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Wired studio headphones with no microphone.

None8Reviewsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m50x-592Read 7 October 2026No microphone. The review points to the ATH-M50xBT2 for its included mic system and to other headsets if a mic is needed

Microphone element

Not available

Not available

Microphone pickup patterniUse the maker’s exact named pattern. Unidirectional does not establish whether the capsule is cardioid, supercardioid or hypercardioid.

Not available

Not available

Voice microphonesiTotal microphones used for voice pickup or beamforming across both sides. ANC-only microphones are excluded.

Not available

Not available

Total microphonesiEvery physical microphone across the headset, including call, ANC and calibration microphones. Shared microphones count once. Excludes microphones in charging cases or receivers, and vibration sensors. Use an explicitly published physical total, never a sum of overlapping role counts.

Not available

Not available

Mic frequency responseiAcoustic microphone response, not its digital sampling rate. Connection-specific ranges belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic sensitivityiPublished microphone sensitivity. Reference such as dBV/Pa or dBFS, frequency and distance belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic signal-to-noiseiPublished microphone signal-to-noise ratio. Minimum or typical conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic sample rateiExplicitly published digital microphone capture or speech sampling rate. State the audio route in the source note, or say it is unpublished. Internal capture does not prove the effective rate on every connection. Acoustic bandwidth, playback rate and generic microphone-chip capability do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Mic noise reductioniProcessing that removes noise from transmitted speech. Playback ANC and a directional microphone alone do not count.

Not available

Not available

Flip to mute

Not available

Not available

Mute button

Not available

Not available

Mute indicatoriPublished indication of microphone mute. mechanical_marker is a visible physical marker showing the microphone's mute-switch position. LED options require an electronic light. The in-line controller option is for a mute light on a cable remote.

Not available

Not available

Sidetone

Not available

Not available

Adjustable sidetone

Not available

Not available

Foam microphone windscreeniA foam cover for the voice microphone. An internal metal mesh pop filter does not count.

Not available

Not available

Connectivity

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Audio connectionsiConnections that carry playback audio. Charging or firmware USB alone does not count as USB audio.

Analog1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Wired headphones with detachable analog cables.

Analog8Reviewsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m50x-592Read 7 October 2026Strictly wired, terminates in a 3.5 mm headphone jack with an optional 1/4-inch adapter

Analog source plugsiAnalog plug(s) supplied for the source device, including adapters. The headset-side jack is listed separately.

3.5 mm TRS, 6.35 mm2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Plug: 6.3 mm standard and 3.5 mm mini, gold-plated stereo 2-way (プラグ φ6.3mm標準/φ3.5mmミニ 金メッキステレオ2ウェイ)

3.5 mm TRS, 6.35 mm1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Plug: 6.3 mm standard and 3.5 mm mini, gold-plated stereo 2-way plug. Stereo is read as a 3-pole TRS plug

Cable connector on headsetiConnection used by the playback cable at the headset. A fixed cable is not replaceable through a headset jack.

Proprietary2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Detachable cords with a bayonet lock mechanism (着脱コード(バヨネット式ロック機構)). Read as a maker-specific twist-lock connector, as for the ATH-M50x.

Proprietary1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Detachable cables with a bayonet lock mechanism (着脱コード(バヨネット式ロック機構)). Read as a maker-specific twist-lock connector8Reviewsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m50x-592Read 7 October 2026The removable cables use a proprietary connection with a twist lock

Longest included cableiLength of the longest supplied cable, including charging and dongle cables. Individual cable lengths are listed in Cables included.

3m1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Cable: detachable 3.0 m (9.8 ft) straight cable, the longest of the two included cables. The coiled cable runs 1.2 m to 3.0 m.

3m1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Cables: 1.2 m coiled (about 3 m extended), 3.0 m straight and 1.2 m straight. The 3.0 m straight cable is stored as the longest

Headset USB plug or portiUSB plug or port on the headset or its included wired audio adapter. A charging-only USB port can appear here.

Not available

Not available

Audio over USB-C cableiPlayback through a USB-C cable or included wired USB-C audio adapter. A charging-only USB-C port does not count.

Not available

Not available

Passive wired listeningiAnalog playback works with the headset powered off or its battery empty. An active analog converter that needs headset power does not count.

Yes1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Passive dynamic headphones with no battery, so analog playback needs no power.

Yes8Reviewsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m50x-592Read 7 October 2026This wired headset does not rely on batteries or Bluetooth

Wireless receiveriDedicated wireless audio receiver or dongle. A wired USB sound card does not count.

None1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Wired headphones with no wireless parts.

None8Reviewsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m50x-592Read 7 October 2026Strictly wired, no Bluetooth or other wireless connection

Wireless receiver connectoriPhysical USB connector on the receiver. Supplied extension cables and adapters are explained in the source note. Both means two native connector types.

Not available

Not available

Wireless range (claimed)iMaker’s advertised wireless range. Connection and indoor or outdoor conditions belong in the source note. Measured distance is not stored here.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth codecsiNamed Bluetooth audio codecs supported by this exact model. Host, firmware and operating-mode restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

LE AudioiLE Audio playback support. Bluetooth Low Energy for app control alone does not count.

Not available

Not available

AuracastiAuracast broadcast audio support. Required phone, firmware and app conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth multipointiCan remain connected to multiple Bluetooth source devices at once. Mixing Bluetooth with a proprietary dongle is a separate field. A maker's dual connection to two Bluetooth devices at once counts.

Not available

Not available

Multipoint devicesiNumber of Bluetooth source devices connected at once, not the number remembered for later pairing.

Not available

Not available

Paired devices remembered

Not available

Not available

Mixes 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth audioiPlays both wireless audio streams at the same time. Automatic switching or Bluetooth standby does not count.

Not available

Not available

Fast pairing

Not available

Not available

Base station

Not available

Not available

Latency

None of 2 known

Low latency modeiA selectable mode intended to reduce audio delay. A low-latency connection without a distinct mode does not count.

Not available

Not available

Claimed latencyiMaker’s claimed delay for the stated connection and mode. Minimum claims and host restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Compatibility

None of 3 known

Compatible platformsiPlatforms with a documented audio path. This does not imply every connection or microphone function works. Platform editions must be checked individually.

Not available

Not available

Connection per platformiOnly explicitly documented playback paths for the exact model. Microphone support is separate. Leave unknown microphone support omitted. An Xbox and a PlayStation edition of one headset can connect differently, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Official licence

Not available

Not available

Battery and charging

0 of 13 differ

Battery capacityiRated capacity of one headset battery. Do not use case, receiver or total multi-battery capacity.

Not available

Not available

Swappable batteryiBattery can be exchanged by the user as part of normal operation. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

Not available

Not available

Batteries includediNumber of headset batteries supplied, including the one already installed.

Not available

Not available

Claimed battery lifeiMaker’s maximum playback time per stated connection, codec, ANC, spatial audio and lighting settings. Name the spatial processing mode and other conditions in the source note. Unknown settings stay omitted.

Not available

Not available

Battery life (claimed, max)

Not available

Not available

Battery life with ANC (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Battery life without ANC (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Charging port

None1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Passive wired headphones with no battery or charging port.

None8Reviewsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m50x-592Read 7 October 2026Does not rely on batteries

Full charge timeiPublished time to fully charge a depleted headset. In-use charging can take longer.

Not available

Not available

Quick charge timeiCharge duration in the maker’s quick-charge claim. Read together with Quick charge playback.

Not available

Not available

Quick charge playbackiPlayback gained from Quick charge time. Charger power, codec, volume and ANC conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Use while charging

Not available

Not available

Charging dock or stand

Not available

Not available

Controls

0 of 6 differ

Controls

Not available

Not available

Volume control

None1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026No volume control on the headphones or the supplied cables.

None8Reviewsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m50x-592Read 7 October 2026The playback controls of the ATH-M50xBT2 are not found on the ATH-M50x or any of its cables

Game and chat mixiBalances separate game and chat audio streams. Mixing Bluetooth and dongle source volume alone does not count. Supported platforms belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Remappable controlsiOn-device button, touch or dial functions can be reassigned. Changing EQ alone does not count.

Not available

Not available

Wear detection

Not available

Not available

Voice assistant

Not available

Not available

Comfort and build

5 of 11 differ

Headband type

Padded2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026New earpad and head pad (ヘッドパッド) materials for high durability, so the headband has a head pad.

Padded1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026New ear pad and head pad (ヘッドパッド) materials for durability

Headband material

Not available

Synthetic leather-covered padding14Reviewdjbooth.net/pro-audio/audio-technica-ath-m50xRead 21 October 2026Review: the ATH-M50x headband has soft padding underneath, covered by synthetic leather material

Frame material

Not available

Plastic and metal8Reviewsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m50x-592Read 7 October 2026Mainly plastic body with metal notched headband adjustments. This describes the mixed structural construction, not the ear pad covering.

Ear cup material

Plastic10Reviewsonarworks.com/soundid-reference/blog/reviews/ath-m40x-studio-headphone-reviewRead 23 October 2026Sonarworks review of 27 May 2019: the ear cups are plastic and seem of lower quality than the ATH-M50x.

Plastic8Reviewsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m50x-592Read 7 October 2026Mainly plastic body with metal only in the notched headband adjustments. Matches the DJ Booth review14Reviewdjbooth.net/pro-audio/audio-technica-ath-m50xRead 21 October 2026Review of July 2014: the ear cups are plastic-framed, and the headphones are almost all plastic including the hinge and swivel points. Only the headband extenders are metal

Ear pad material

Synthetic leather10Reviewsonarworks.com/soundid-reference/blog/reviews/ath-m40x-studio-headphone-reviewRead 23 October 2026Sonarworks review: the ear pads are artificial leather (pleather). SoundGuys also calls the pads synthetic.

Faux leather6Retailer pagethomannmusic.com/audio_technica_ath_m50_x.htmRead 6 October 2026Earpads made of faux leather

Replaceable ear pads

Yes2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Sold separately (別売): replacement ear pads HP-M40x.5Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/p52521_mseries_earpad_replacement.pdfRead 23 October 2026The instruction lists the ATH-M40x among the models and tells the user to remove the existing earpad by pulling it off.

Yes1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Sold separately: replacement ear pads HP-M50x

Ear pad attachmentiHow a replacement ear pad attaches to the ear cup, not how the decorative outer cover attaches. A press-fit or snap-on pad counts as clip.

Stretch-over5Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/p52521_mseries_earpad_replacement.pdfRead 23 October 2026Instruction P52521 for HP-EP replacement earpads names the ATH-M40x. Step 2: slide the new earpad's flange into the slot of the earcup. Step 3: gently stretch the flange over the slot until the pad is securely in place.

Stretch-over11Reviewifixit.com/Teardown/Audio-Technica+ATH-M50x+Teardown/135646Read 7 October 2026Step 1 removes the cushion compression fitting from its track. The pad perimeter stretches over the cup edge into a groove. This is not a clip or twist-lock pad mount.12Reviewmixonline.com/technology/audio-technica-ath-m-series-headphone-ear-pads-reviewRead 7 October 2026Replacement-pad installation slides the lip into the small groove on the perimeter of the cup and stretches the pad during mounting. This independently explains the original-pad compression fitting described in iFixit step 1.

Ear pad openingiUsable opening inside an ear pad, excluding the outer cushion. Depth is the internal space between pad surface and driver cover.

Not available

Width60Height65mm(2.4 × 2.6 in)8Reviewsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m50x-592Read 7 October 2026Spec table: Ear pad internal opening 65 x 60 mm. Text: about 6.5 cm x 6 cm of space around the ears. The page does not name the axes. Read as height 65 and width 60, since an ear is taller than wide. Depth is not stated

Ear tips included

Not available

Not available

Dust and water rating

Not available

Not available

User-replaceable parts

Ear pads (HP-M40x), Coiled cable 1.2 m, Straight cable 3.0 m2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Sold separately (別売): replacement ear pads HP-M40x, coiled cord (detachable) 1.2 m and straight cord (detachable) 3.0 m.

Ear pads (HP-M50x), Headband (HP-HBM50x), Coiled cable 1.2 m, Straight cable 3.0 m, Straight cable 1.2 m1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Sold separately: replacement ear pads HP-M50x, replacement headband HP-HBM50x and all three detachable cables

Software

None of 3 known

Companion app

Not available

Not available

App platforms

Not available

Not available

User firmware updates

Not available

Not available

Dimensions and weight

1 of 2 differ

Headset weightiPublished headset mass without detachable cable or microphone when stated. A fixed cable remains included. Any unqualified maker weight is identified in the source note.

240g(8.5 oz)1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Weight 240 g (8.5 oz), without cable and connector3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Weight 240 g (8.5 oz), without cable and connector8Retailer pagethomannmusic.com/audio_technica_ath_m40_x.htmRead 23 October 2026Thomann lists 241 g without cable and 300 g with cable, which agrees with the maker 240 g without cable.

285g(10.1 oz)1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Mass without cable (質量(コード除く)): 285 g. Thomann lists 287 g and SoundGuys 283 g. The maker value is stored

Headset dimensionsiBody size with headband upright and ear cups in their normal wearing position. Width is across the head, height is top to bottom, and depth is front to back. Folded or flat-swivel dimensions are not substituted.

Not available

Not available

Certifications

0 of 3 differ

Hi-Res Audio

Not available

Not available

Communication certifications

Not available

Not available

FCC ID

Not available

Not available

Other certifications

RoHS (2011/65/EU)3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026Declaration of Conformity on PDF page 9 covers ATH-M20x/30x/40x/50x and lists RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and EN50581:2012. This is manufacturer self-declaration, not independent certification.

RoHS (2011/65/EU)10Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 7 October 2026Self-declaration on PDF page 9 lists RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and EN50581:2012. This is manufacturer conformity, not independent certification.

In the box

2 of 3 differ

In the box

Detachable coiled cable 1.2 m, extends to about 3.0 m, Detachable straight cable 3.0 m, 6.3 mm (1/4 inch) screw-on adapter, Protective carrying pouch1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Accessories included: protective carrying pouch and 6.3 mm (1/4 inch) screw-on adapter. Cable: two interchangeable cables, a detachable 1.2 m to 3.0 m coiled cable and a detachable 3.0 m straight cable.

Pouch, Detachable coiled cable 1.2 m, Detachable straight cable 3.0 m, Detachable straight cable 1.2 m, 6.3 mm adapter1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Accessories: pouch, detachable coiled cable 1.2 m, detachable straight cables 3.0 m and 1.2 m. The 6.3 mm adapter is from Thomann6Retailer pagethomannmusic.com/audio_technica_ath_m50_x.htmRead 6 October 2026Includes 6.3 mm adaptor and bag. The page also lists Peak SPL 99 dB and Max. SPL 97 dB, which were not used

Cables includediSupplied playback, charging, dongle and adapter cables. A permanently attached headset cable is included and named as fixed.

AAudio-Technica ATH-M40x

Type	Length (m)	Count
Coiled cable, detachable, extends to 3.0 m	1.2	1
Straight cable, detachable	3	1

Source1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Cable: detachable 1.2 m to 3.0 m coiled cable and detachable 3.0 m straight cable. The Japanese page gives the coiled cable as 1.2 m, about 3 m when extended.4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 23 October 2026The model chart gives the ATH-M40x a 3.0 m detachable straight cable (B) and a 3.0 m detachable coiled cable (C).

BAudio-Technica ATH-M50x

Type	Length (m)	Count
Coiled OFC litz cable, detachable, extends to about 3 m	1.2	1
Straight OFC litz cable, detachable	3	1
Straight OFC litz cable, detachable	1.2	1

Source1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026OFC litz cables: 1.2 m coiled cable (about 3 m extended), 3.0 m straight cable and 1.2 m straight cable, all detachable

Carrying caseiSupplied carrying case or pouch. A retail carton does not count as a carrying case.

Soft1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Accessories included: protective carrying pouch

Soft1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026Accessories: pouch (ポーチ)8Reviewsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m50x-592Read 7 October 2026Included vinyl cinched bag. More of a carrying pouch than a protective case

Links

Not compared

Product page

www.audio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40x1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026

www.audio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50x1Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M50xRead 7 October 2026

Spec sheet

docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdf3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026Official technical construction file TCF ATTWCE-HP140318001 dated 2014-03-18. The ATH-M40x table is on PDF page 6. Image-only PDF, read visually.

docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdf10Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 7 October 2026Official technical construction file. ATH-M50x specifications are on PDF page 7. Image-only PDF, checked visually after OCR.

Manual

www.audio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdf4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 23 October 2026Operating instructions for ATH-M50x, ATH-M40x, ATH-M30x and ATH-M20x. PDF page 2 is in English.

www.audio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdf4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 7 October 2026Shared ATH-M50x, ATH-M40x, ATH-M30x and ATH-M20x user manual. Mostly pictures with Japanese text

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

0 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

1year4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 23 October 2026Japanese warranty certificate on PDF page 1: one year from purchase. This is Japan coverage, not a global warranty claim.

1year4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 7 October 2026Japanese warranty certificate on PDF page 1: one year from purchase. This is Japan coverage, not a global warranty claim.

Both are also in the API. Back to all headsets and headphones.