Headphones

Audio-Technica ATH-M50xvsSony MDR-7506

Compare Audio-Technica ATH-M50x and Sony MDR-7506 side by side. See pricing, features, and which is right for your podcast.

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x logo

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

Popular closed-back studio monitors

Full Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Review →
Sony MDR-7506 logo

Sony MDR-7506

The headphones you see in every studio

Full Sony MDR-7506 Review →

Pricing Comparison

TierAudio-Technica ATH-M50xSony MDR-7506
Price$159$113

Feature Comparison

FeatureAudio-Technica ATH-M50xSony MDR-7506
Typeover-earover-ear
Driver45mm40mm
Impedance3863
Frequency Response15Hz-28kHz10Hz-20kHz
Closed Back
Foldable
Replaceable Cable
Replaceable Pads

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Clear, detailed sound across the range
  • Bass is present without being muddy
  • Three cables in the box (coiled, short straight, long straight)

Cons

  • Clamp force can tire your ears after a few hours
  • Stock earpads wear out and start peeling
  • Response isn't perfectly flat, which bothers some mixers

Sony MDR-7506 Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Around $113 and has been in that range for years
  • Reliable enough that studios keep buying replacements of the same model
  • Good noise isolation for the weight

Cons

  • Cable is hardwired, so a bad cable means a repair job
  • Stock earpads eventually flake (aftermarket replacements fix this)
  • Treble is a bit hot, which some people find fatiguing

The Verdict

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is best for:

  • Podcasters who want accurate playback for editing
  • People who record in different locations
  • Beginners who don't have a headphone amp

Sony MDR-7506 is best for:

  • Podcasters who want something cheap and reliable
  • Recording on location where you need portability
  • Anyone who just wants headphones that work without overthinking it

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