Audio Technica ATH-M50xSTS Review / Test (vs. AT2020, BPHS1, BPHS2, U87)
Vložit
- čas přidán 27. 07. 2024
- HQ Audio Of Review: podcastage.com/rev/athm50xsts
The Headphone Show Review: • M50X? Watch this first!!
Today I review the new headset mics from Audio Technica. These things use the ATH-M50x as the platform, and pull the capsule from the AT2020. The headphones are very easy to listen to, and the mic ends up with a lot of the same characteristics of most headset mics. It does sound better than a lot of headset mics, but it still sounds like a headset mic.
Buy the ATH-M50xSTS-USB (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: geni.us/athm50xstsusb
B&H Photo: bhpho.to/3NcHBz0
Sweetwater: imp.i114863.net/athm50xstsusb
Buy the ATH-M50xSTS (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: geni.us/athm50xsts
B&H Photo: bhpho.to/3N8GNLq
Sweetwater: imp.i114863.net/athm50xsts
Buy the Focusrite 2i2 (3rd Gen)- Same Performance as 18i20 (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: geni.us/2i32rd
B&H Photo: bhpho.to/42lcWDF
Sweetwater: imp.i114863.net/k6g4d
NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
00:00 - Intro / Price / Disclaimer
00:26 - Setup
00:47 - What’s in the Box
01:28 - Build Quality
03:12 - Microphone Functionality
04:06 - Comfort
04:38 - Specifications
05:22 - Headphone Discussion
06:14 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
06:33 - Plosive Test
06:51 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
07:11 - Background Noise Test
07:31 - Untreated Room Test
07:51 - Shock Rejection Test
08:07 - Microphone Mute Test
08:31 - EQ-Ing The Mic to Sound Better
10:06 - Intro to Comparison
10:29 - Audio Technica AT2020 Comparison
11:00 - Sennheiser Game One Comparison
11:44 - Audio Technica ATH-M50x-STS-USB Comparison
12:14 - Audio Technica BPHS1 Comparison
12:51 - Audio Technica BPHS2 Comparison
13:24 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
13:51 - Pros & Cons
15:32 - Overall Thoughts
17:06 - Recommendation
19:50 - Outro
#Headset #HeadsetMic #MicReview
NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): If you purchase an item using an affiliate link, it provides me a small referral fee. As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
Become a Patreon: / podcastage
Become a Member: / @podcastage
Check Out This Stuff TOO:
Website: www.podcastage.com
Giveaways: podcastage.com/giveaways
Discord: www.podcastage.com/discord
Merch: podcastage.com/store
Company Relationship Disclosure: podcastage.com/disclosure
Personal: www.bandrewscott.com
My CZcams Setup: podcastage.com/studio
My Favorite XLR Mics: podcastage.com/rev/favxlr
My Favorite USB Mics: podcastage.com/rev/favusb - Věda a technologie
Dude, doing that pallet cleanser is supremely helpful. THANK YOU for including that.
Correction, the analog version has 3.5mm TRS and not TRRS.
Also, DO NOT contact anyone on Telegram (or other service) that is pretending to be me and claiming you won something. I am not giving anything away. They are scammers trying to steal your money and data.
this needs to be pinned!
That's...........that's gotta be the best sounding headset I've heard from you to date. That legitimately sounds fine. It's (the XLR version) not super muffled, it's not tinny, it's not lispy, it's not thin-sounding. The best sounding headset I've heard from you over the years. ///Edit: ah, it's an AT2020 capsule on the end. Interesting. But yeah, a good sounding headset as far as headsets go.
You’re absolutely right. As far as headset mics go it’s one of the best I’ve heard. I still want to try the higher end headset mics that are over $500 to see how those are. But for ease of use and accessibility, if a headset is needed, it’s great. However If a full on stand alone mic can be used, I still think it should.
Agreed (listening on my phone)
@@Podcastage yes more headset reviews! Definitely interested in some higher-end options
As far as traditional headsets go, Corsair HS80's sound pretty great I use them for work.
@@Podcastage I also want higher-end headset options as well. Those that are not mid-focused.
I wish more audio engineers and musicians would test headsets for gaming, you went so in depth on the mic test analysis compare to every other videos
Thank you sir! Review i was waiting online long time! 👍🏽
Danke! No. 2 This was a really high quality's review of this new headset. I'm positively surprised how good it sounds. Your EQ made it even better, though. This is one I'd use for any voice calls or video conferences for convenience. Having a fixed set-up makes it redundant, though.
Thank you very much Rainer. Yeah I think for video conference it's ideal. Apparently people think it'd be great for broadcast as well. I appreciate your continued support.
There is a noticeable difference with the EQ on. You must have high standards when it comes to mic quality but even with the EQ off, it sounds amazing. I have seen a ton of gaming headset reviews and this by far has one of the best, if not the best, microphone on a headset. With EQ on, it sounds so good and I would love to learn how to do that EQ setting. I have no knowledge with EQ-ing or what software you are using to do this. Great job on the editing especially when switching back and forth between having EQ on/off. Thanks for the comprehensive mic test. That's exactly what I was looking for. This is now on top of my list when buying a wfh headset. To me, with EQ on, this sounds better than Corsair Virtuoso XT or HS80 which many reviewers say has the best mic on any headset right now. Glad to have stumbled upon your channel. Awesome review. Subscribed.
i hoped to much you would cover these :D thank you!!!!
I think it's a solid option for doing on location podcast interviews at a tradeshow or conference. Pair a couple of these with the Podtrak P4 and you got a great little mobile rig that doesn't take up a ton of space.
becasufe of durable , I think bphs 1/2 is better than this.
The mic on the USB version of the M50X sounded the best to me (except for the AT2020 and U87 😆). As far as headsets go, it's about the best and I'm glad AT decided to mix their most popular headphones with their most popular microphone. Well done.
Patiently waiting for the next tube mic review😳👀
you gotta be the best audio reviewer on youtube bro. My whole audio equipment is insanely accurate and good to what i needed thanks to your videos. And my music kicks ass ^_^
That is very kind. Thank you very much for watching. Have fun recording.
@@Podcastage Thanks!
I thought the ATH-M50xSTS mics sounded too nasally. Then you compared them to the dynamic mic headset models and suddenly the ATH-M50xSTS sounded a whole lot less stuffy and congested. Then you brought in the big dog for comparison and suddenly the Audio-Technica sounded like it had a sinus infection again. Thanks for the comparison, it really helped put things into perspective.
Excellent, straight-to-the-point review. Thank you.
Interesting review! Nicely detailed as usual, awesome. I'm only 5 minutes in, though :D
Definitely the best sounding headset mic. The USB version was more tinny but still great. Seems like the easiest all around plug and play setup you could have. They shouldn't ever put a permanent cable on headphones though, I've broken...too many of those.
Yes why the attached cable….
The EQ adjustment you made did a mile of good.
As someone that had ATs for 4 years they're good headphones. It would be nice if they can make custom cables for VR headsets. For the USB vesion, they should have 2 removable cables, one with A and another with C
Perfect video, absolutely flawless.
EQ MAGIC!! Nice review tq for sharing as usual.
Perfect headset mic! I like the ATH-M50XSTS USB.
The M50x is my favorite headphone in the affordable range. The addition of the microphone is very welcome!
Thanks for the review! I've been waiting for this one. I'm still curious to hear the new Rode Headset mic too.
I'll eventually get around to testing that one out too.
FINALLY!!! A headset that sound good enough I can use it as a singing drummer without having to fiddle with awkward positioning of microphone stand, frame comfort issues from stand-alone headsets mics, and I don't have to worry about bass reproduction through those either. Not the best isolation in the world, but you can always use a pair of earbuds underneath for super loud shows, or even go fancy and wear in-ears underneath with only the bass signal coming through those! This is brilliant. Gosh was I waiting for this. Singing drummers and keyboardists, rejoice!!!
We need more singing drummers! Woooo 🌈
Thank you for your review. I thought this m50x mic sounds pretty good considering its a headsets mic and it is better than other contenders. The mids sound forward but round and highs are not overly pronounced making it easy to listen to for long hours. You are right lows are missing but it is helping to avoid plosives. I would try to place the mic just a little bit closer from side to get little more low-end. I think I will purchase this headsets. I think this is just right for zoom meeting.
Just a follow up for ya: since making this review, the USB version has been what I use for my day job calls every single day and It has worked great for me.
Thanks for the proper review👍
I don't think they are a good fit for broadcast, but the mic colour is perfect for my use case; I do switching for a live show, so while the audience doesn't hear me-the hosts do.
I'll plug it to a wave xlr with a noise reduction vst and I'll be golden. Gràcies!
Rather intriguing offerings. I hope they'll eventually release the mic as a separate attachable option so that people can wear their own headphones.
A ModMic style attachable version of this headset mic would be incredible
@@occasionalart7597 Precisely something i would love to see.
Thanks! BTW - It's a perfect tool for songwriting and sketching ideas and, in that respect, so much more flexible than a static mounted traditional mic. My five cents.
Thanks for interesting review. Using M50X several years for mixing/monitoring. It would have been better if they use better leather, because the black skin of those area getting removed after the summer. I purchased another ear up as a replacement but couldn’t buy and replace head part. Anyway it was overall best headphone in terms of price vs. benefit.
I wish they offered just the microphone on a removable arm like the ModMic. This is the best sounding headset Mic I've heard, but I prefer headphones with suspension headstraps instead of padding, and I don't see myself ever buying headphones without detachable cables again. Sticking with my ModMic/K7XX to Audient interface for Zoom calls when I don't have sound blankets up--still puts me a league above anybody else on the calls sound-wise.
thank you very much for this high quality review!
You're very welcome. Thank you for the kind words.
@@Podcastage deserved! would you recommend them even for rooms, which have a lot of reverbations?
btw. which eq would you suggest for eq'ing the usb-version? thank you!
I don't undestand why they didn't make USB version with detachable USB-C cable + adapter for USB-A. The review is great, just as always, thank you Bandrew.
I see this as a step forward in the market to affordable broadcaster headsets, hopefully in saying that we can one day see a non droney/tinny microphone that is more comparable to MV7 or even one day the SM7B. Or even a step forward in wireless headsets too that don't come with crappy mics.
Wow these headsets sound very pleasing to the ears.
But in all seriousness, the XLR model sounds great to me - I agree that the hard wired cord is a huge disadvantage for a headset of that price, when the M50 headphones (for ~$100 less) DO have replaceable cords. Dear Audio Technica: Fix that flaw so I can hand you my money. That's my only gripe about the headset.
The m50x cords have horrible longevity too. It makes me really worried about buying this headset
Thank you for a great and thorough review (as always). I have been waiting for you to pick these up.
Does the monitoring on the USB version get loud enough? Some headsets with built in sidetone is just too low.
The box was very aerodynamic. I'm sold!
Monster, the best in game in your niche, legend... One note, could be nice if: because companies making version II of their products, could be nice to have some more minutes(or begin with the comparison) between the version I x version II of the mic. Like 1 minute more in detail about V1 x V2 than other mics. (not the case of this video, i am coming from RODE NT+ video, but maybe you can read this comment in this video)
"Lets go do more.. things.. please. What?" I love this hahaha, thanks for the review!
You're very welcome. Thank you for watching and the kind words.
I wish that they would release a standalone microphone for the existing headphones
You should review the Schoeps HSC 4VP. It is ridiculously expensive, but it would be fun to see how it compares to other headsets
The only review that -- as an alternative to endless trash chat about the equipment -- actually demonstrated the equipment :-)
Woah, nice Lunchbox you git there, mate.
On the EQ, I think it was the right settings, just too much. Tad muddy afterwards. Still can't compete with the 2020, it's missing all the air and detail imho.
PS: I think headset mics still have their application in untreated rooms. I ssuggest comparing to a dpa 4066 or 6066 as gold standard instead of the U87.
I love these videos. Always so indepth! I may have missed it, but what EQ software are you using to EQ the mic?
I use the Sennheiser Game One for daily use, and I was staggered by the difference in mic quality. Too bad, like you, I've become spoiled by the open back comfort and soundstage.
You’re looking fit, dawg!
I was about to buy the XLR version of these with an audio interface, but the USB version is impressive. I expected more of a difference, but I doubt anyone could tell the difference in a blind test.
It could be interesting to compare this headphone with the Fnatic React. The Fnatic microphone is really good !
damn, an actual good sounding headset
I hope Bandrew will see this: could you drop a "duce" on BPHS-1 vs ATH-M50xSTS with and without post processing?
I'm torn between those two for casual streaming/gaming because a prospect of having AT2020 capsule on a headset seems just as good as having a dynamic mic of BPHS1
Closed back for gaming... what a missed opportunity. We just need sennheiser to release the hd6xx with a good mic attached.
Very stunning !!
you should test the beyerdynamic dt797, it has to be the best sounding headset with this m50x-sts and the sennheiser hmd ones
Interesting. I had not heard of that headset before. I'm not the biggest fan of the Beyer headphones so it's kind of hard for me to justify.
@@PodcastageThe Beyerdynamic dt297 and dt797 headsets are in Germany basically what the SM7B is in the US: the podcast mic standard to aspire to 🙂 They have the same condenser capsules but different base headphones. I use them for my podcast from time to time (was very useful when I had back problems and needed to stand a lot) but they still sound very “headsetty” - No competition imho to something like the much cheaper Røde M2 or similar stage condensers. Still: Visit a very well known German podcaster forum and everyone will refer to the Beyers like the holy podcasting grail 😅
I would like to see it compared to the PC38x or any of the previous models. The condenser mics on the Sennheisers have been very good for many years.
Fantastic and fantastic review. Thank you!
A quick question if I may, i want to use this headset in an noisy office environment, would the microphone capture ambient noise to disturb the other video call participants? My main goal is to able to listen music properly and have a great microphone for my business calls which is third of my time... Thanks again!
The bar is very low to beat, but it sounds not terrible with the EQing! Could be pretty good on-location outside with a foamy over that mic!
Thanks again for the great review! It would be great to have a review video for a multiple headsets!
I've tried to find great sounding headsets for podcasting (oxymoron?) but there's always issues with them. Lot of plasticky handling noices from the cable and arm.
In my experience, BPHS1 has some handling noise when I'm turning head or leaning back (sounds like dropping rocks in a plastic cup).
Sennheiser HMD 27 has okay sounding mic but horrible handling noise from touching the cable or turning head sideways.
Beyerdynamic dt 297 don't have any handling noises and they sound great but it would be great to have a dynamic mic version of them.
So, I'm still looking for the best headset for podcasting and sounds like ATH-M50xSTS are not the one.
It’s the best sounding one I have tried but I haven’t gotten to the higher end headsets yet.
@@Podcastage hope you get those to test some day! If you ever make bc-headset reviews, can you include the handling noise test (turning head sideways, touching cable at the earcup end etc.)? Thanks!
it's really weird to see a big company that is based on sound (microphone, headsets etc) to not give some specifications about it's microphone, like i love at2020, i want to buy one but not now cause i have an Superlux E205 XLR and i'm happy with it (btw i want to see you test it cause i want to see your opinion on this microphone), and i love the m50x's, it's a great pair, great sounding microphone than other headsets, but as you said, for professional use it's not practical, only for those who work, and even for gamers who don't know anything about audio in general, or those who don't want to have a microphone in they're face all the time with the condition to have a great sounding microphone. In my oppinion audio technica really did a great job doing this combo with m50x and at2020 capsule, in a relatively nice price for the components used. And finally we can see a step up onto headphones audio quality in general, but most importantly on the microphone side as many headphone users use.
Thanks!
I have an AT2020USB+ and looking at the capsule, it seems like the original mic's capsule is much bigger than what the headset has, so I think saying the headset has an AT2020 capsule with that audio quality and size is an overexaggeration.
Good. The ATH-M50xSTS USB initial price is at the high side. I have Creative SXFI gaming headset (USB/3.5mm dual mode, 7.1 Sound) and the microphone quality (by USB type C) a bit better than ATH-M50 USB one (on-par plus+ abit).
Thumbs up! Thanks!
Do you recommend this headset for conference simultaneous interpreting?
Do I hear myself while talking, or don't? If I hear myself, then it is not useful for interpreting. Please advise.
Impressive sounding mic. Would have liked to have heard the mod mic in the comparisons
I'm also curious how it'd sound for broadcast; compared to the Sennheisers I bet that condenser mic would pick up too much arena noise
Not sure if you’ll see this but I do a small podcast from inside a warehouse where I need to use a headset at a work computer in collaboration with someone else at their office. It’s recorded and posted a week later and their audio is noticeably better with a non headset mic. I currently using a steelseries artic 7 gaming headset. Would this headset be an improvement and is there any better option for when a headset is required ?
One thing I really hate about all these headset mics is all the breath noises and rumble from proximity effect - even when there's no plosives.
I think it sounded the best by far at 6:12 when you were further away. On the head, it was tolerable at 7:06 at the furthest distance (can it be bent a little further?)
The EQ was an improvement
This is the best headset mic I've heard. Would you mind comparing it against the nubwo n7 and the mod mic usb?
I was half-expecting to see the Neumann mic gaffer-taped to a headset for fairness 😂
missed opportunity, for sure.
I was expecting "2 Inch from the mic" ~{derp filter}~ ... Banjo missed That one for me.
M50x with mic that’s nice
Still sounds better then 90% gaming livestreams (with BlueYeti, 2020, Razer headsets). With Elgato Wave XLR (sound guard) can be a good combo for Streamers.
I low key expected you to throw in the music test just for the memes
Why are their cables permanently attached, though? While the original M50x have detachable cables. There's gotta be a reason for that. 😐
No Beyerdynamic in this mix? It would be interesting in comparison with the DT 297 PV MK II or the DT 797 PV.
What would be your 1st choice for smooth mic, with not harsh highs, but also not very muddy, for streams and to 200$?
Well, finally updated the ear pads, God heard our prayers😱
I would happily use the XLR version in sports broadcast settings, especially for basketball, where you've got the crowd right on top of the commentators at courtside. Sports public address, however, is an entirely different story (I like to "work the mic" when I'm announcing). Studio use, definitely not. But overall, that's easily the best sounding headset on the market, even better than more expensive professional options. Even if you don't like the natural curve of it, it's ideal for the intended purposes... and I would suppose the midrange-forward sound is intended for loud environments like I described.
Great insight from the sports broadcast side of things. I appreciate that.
Studio use, surely not, but as a singing drummer, I would absolutely use this microphone for singing live while monitoring the bass better on a silent stage. I know a lot of singers who hate headset stand-alones for comfort and will love this microphone because it sounds definitely good enough for professional live singing. Besides, there is no way an actual AT2020 would survive modern stages feedback issues, so that's an even better option that most stand-alone mics I would use on a stage (and much better than an SM57 IMHO).
I don't overly worry about bleed too much either, but it did pick up quite a bit of the keyboard, so the FOH will have to keep that in mind. For back vocals, finely tuned gates should be absolutely fine. I don't picture a leader singer using those but I mean why not??
@@jas_bataille That makes sense.
I already know people who’ve been wanting this. I’m spoiled by Audio-Technica’s R70X and other open-backs, so the m50x don’t appeal to me. But with an at2020 attached, the closed-back design is a necessity.
The Headphone Show reviewers are the absolute GOAT
They are fantastic, kind, and I trust them which is why I feel comfortable recommending them.
@@Podcastage i salute you sir 🫡
Man i hope theres an M40xSTS on the way
Dang, that microphone sounds excellent for a tiny headset mic! From what I hear, it doesn't sound any worse than a cheap Neewer mic. Too bad I'll never buy one because it's attached to the m50x, which is pain to my ears.
here I am watching this review listening with M50x headphones that I think I have over 10000 hours of use on.
Thank you for the review, I was really interested in how it sounds. I did not particularly like it on your voice, listening to them with Airpods, it was piercy after a couple of minutes (the EQ has helped a lot though) and every 15-20 seconds I heard some incomprehensible noise, that I could not identify where it came from - maybe the cable rubbing to your hoodie or just the condenser capsule having picked up a little more breathing. Nevertheless, to my ears, they sounded better then any of the other headsets you’ve compared them to. To me, also the Røde NTH-Mic seems to be an interesting and worthy competitor.
I'll have to look into the NTH Mic. Thanks for the recommendation.
Wow thx
Very helpful video. Would it be good for recording tutorials or other training videos -- PowerPoint or Articulate Storyline for instructional design/eLearning experiences?
Danke!
Hi Bandrew, the XLR version can be connected to a preamplifier like a Fethead Phantom to reduce noise level? 😅
I hear no noticeable difference between the XLR and USB versions in your test. If anything, perhaps slightly more low end on the USB one. The SQ on the mic for this price range is out of this world.
I’m selling my headphones, Røde NT-USB and DAC/amp and replacing them with this just for the convenience. It’s scary how good the mic is.
Why did Audio-Technica call it X though? X means removable cables in their product codes and this one doesn't have that :S
Hey Bandrew, fantastic review! Doesn't the microphone sound a lot like the RE27N/D, BCM705, or even something like a Coles 4104? These microphones aren't great for speech on podcasts specifically, but if you're doing voice overs or commentary over something like gameplay, background music, sports etc. the EQ curve really helps the voice cut through the mix. The sound also cuts through low-bitrate compression, audio leveling, or FM companding, and also sounds great on small speakers, say an small transistor radio, low end car stereos, or cell phones!
I find a lot of streamers and content creators get tripped up on how the speech sounds out of context and end up with a final mix that tends to be bit muddy. Horses for courses.
It's been a long time since I've used the BCM705, but I don't think this headset mic sounds like the RE27 N/D. The RE27 has such a hyped sound that is quite unique to it. But I never considered doing a back to back comparison.
It really is different strokes for different folks, and every sound source (in this case voice) is very different. What works on one person might not work on another. That's why I do not advocate buying something just because you see everyone else using it (see: czcams.com/video/MNeqQC9iyI4/video.html)
@@Podcastage I should probably do a video about this. it might be time to resurrect my channel
Hello, your video was fantastic… Which of the 3 models would you recommend for professional audio: Audio-Technica BPHS1, BPHS2 or ATH-M50xSTS?
Aww, yes! It's worth the price alone if those memory foam earpads are easier to install than the generic ones 🕺
I hope sports broadcasters will use these headsets
Great video! As usual 😀. Many thanks for your efforts. Q: does the usb headset provides direct monitoring, if not, any recommendations? Thanks again
Yes. Check the device walkthrough portion. I discuss zero latency monitoring.
Got it. Thanks
@@Podcastage Got it. Thanks
I feel like every video you say "yes and no" in the recommendation part lol. Don't be afraid to just give something an enthusiastic recommendation! If you use it every day, then it must be pretty good! We understand products have their strengths and weaknesses, and all the info is in the video.
I do say yes and no in most reviews because I recommend stuff for certain people and not for others. I like trying to be as nuanced as I can be.
i totally get it. keep up the good work.
I would like to see a comparison between these and the VZR model one....but I must add these have terrible noise rejection
I love that the usb version has zero latency monitoring. Does anyone know of any other USB headsets that offer this?
RØDE NTH 100M vs Audio Technica ATH-M50xSTS vs Corsair HS80 Wired ??? Any thoughts on this comparison?
A little bit correction, the 3.5mm jack is TRS not a TRRS because there are only 3 conductor surface
Thank you for the correction.
hinge issue solved or not? that's the big question.
Funny that every new video I hear U87 it sounds more and more nasal to me. I sold mine a few weeks ago, I felt sad just cuz I loved the build quality and the look, but the sound wasn't mine at all. Now I'm pretty happy with Manley Ref. and yeah
Yeah the resale market is trash too. I’ll take it off your hands for a hundred bucks.
Hi, how does the ATH-M50xSTS-USB headset mic compare, in your opinion, to the modmic wired version? I currentlly have the modmic and although I like it, I feel the extra cable, combined with my headphone cable, is a bit cumbersome to keep on my desk.
Comparing the Modmic USB in directional mode to this, the Mod Mic has a lot more bass and proximity effect, while this mic compensates for that. It's going to come down to your personal preference which one you like the sound of better. This mic sounds clearer and more realistic and condenser like compared to the mod mic. I can't tell you which one you will like better though.
Here's the USB Omni & then Directional demo: czcams.com/video/w4dnBZu02dE/video.htmlsi=-Qxmc5QLfwdRb9ir&t=239