Everything sounds better when you’re using a good pair of over-ear headphones because even though earphones have their fair share of pros, there’s really no defying physics: a decent set of over-ear headphones are the only ones that can flawlessly move air well enough to produce good sound – something earbuds can’t compete with.
We understand how challenging it can be to choose over ear headphones that best suit your needs given the wide range of alternatives available which is why Audio-Technica is a fantastic brand to take into consideration if you’re searching for a reliable set of headphones that will endure for many years.
They have a wide selection of models to pick from, and their products are well-made and offer excellent sound quality. Whether you’re on a budget or willing to spend, Audio-Technica headphones are a great option since they can be found at reasonable costs.
Regardless of whatever you’re searching for in a pair of over ear headphones, there ought to be something suitable available by Audio Technica since the company makes everything – from noise-canceling over-ear headphones to wireless gaming headsets, and more.
6 best Audio Technica Over-Ear Headphones
We’ve put together a list of 6 of the best Audio Technica over-ear headphones along with their pros and cons to make things easier for you.
1. Audio Technica ATH-M20x
Key features
Price: $49
Type: Closed-back
Connectivity: Wired
Wireless Communication: Bluetooth
Cable: 3.0m, 9.8 feet
Driver Size: 40 mm
Frequency Response: 15 – 20,000 Hz
Sensitivity: 96 dB
Weight: 190 g
Accessories: 6.3 mm (1/4″) snap-on adapter
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Fast connectivity | ❌ Bass is faint |
| ✅ Impressive treble | ❌ Build feels cheap |
| ✅ Comfortable headband | ❌ Ear pads aren’t very flexible |
Trying to find a set of Audio-Technica headphones but without wanting to spend as much money? These wired, over-ear headphones under $50 are the perfect cheap studio headphones for endless tracking and mixing as well as buying in bulk.
Who are they perfect for?
- Home studio music producers- affordable price-to-performance ratio
- Podcasters – comparatively precise frequency response
- Studio owners – inexpensive headset for tracking and mixing
Design
These headphones are average in terms of design, given the price and they feature a cable that isn’t removable but is primarily composed of plastic and has an oval shape to the speaker shell. Though comfortable enough given the price, you can’t count on working all night long without any problems.
After about an hour, it becomes necessary to take a little break from wearing the headband and ear cushions. Nevertheless, the heavy usage of solid plastic gives them the impression of being a set of headphones that can handle a lot of wear and tear. If you’re looking for a pair for rough use, this is it.
Specs
The ATH-spec M20X’s list is rather good given that they are being marketed as monitor headphones for professional use. Their drivers are 40mm in size and operate between 15 and 20,000 Hz as a starting point. However, their impedance rating of 47 ohms, which might lessen the buzzing sound caused by electrical signals traveling through the headphones, is what matters most. Additionally, a variety of audio devices should be compatible with the ATH-M20X.
Sound
Even though the underpowered amplifiers in several of our cellphones made the Audio-Technica ATH-M20X sound quite muffled and mushy, when connected to a computer, the headphones sound incredibly loud and clear.
The ATH-M20X headphones maintain treble beautifully. In fact, higher frequencies sound rather well, and singers are audible without being painfully loud. However, if you’re a sucker for bass and can’t live without it, this pair of Audio Technica over ear headphones might not be your cup of tea. Upon testing, their passive noise isolation and sound staging rank as average, but several observations indicate that this is also true in the case of many other low-end recording studio headphones.
Final thoughts
The Audio-Technica ATH-M20X over ear headphones are a great option for professionals recording in small-scale studios in search of something budget-friendly. Bass and soundstaging are definitely not some of their strengths but their durable build for rough use and exceptional price make it understandable why they may be purchased by recording studios in bulk.
The ATH-M20X headphones although won’t have you not considered a better option in the future but will get the job done without creating unnecessary problems for you either. Overall, they’re a pretty good pair of over-ear headphones under $50 if you really can’t push your budget and want something long-term.
2. Audio Technica ATH-M50xBT2
Key features
Price: $199
Type: Closed-back
Connectivity: Wireless, USB
Wireless Communication: Bluetooth 5.0, Microphone
Cable: 1.2m
Driver Size: 45 mm
Frequency Response: 15 – 28,000 Hz
Sensitivity: 99 dB/mW
Weight: 303 g
Battery life: Around 50 hours (continuous use)
Charging time: Approx. 3.5 hours
Accessories: USB charging cable（30cm USB Type-A / USB Type-C), Audio cable (1.2m stereo mini-plug), Pouch
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Strong & precise sound | ❌ Barely any noise cancellation |
| ✅ Fast connectivity | ❌ Uncomfortably tight fit |
| ✅ Unique features e.g. equalizer & touch controls | ❌ Average call quality |
| ✅ Traditional studio design |
If you’re looking for a pair of Audio-Technica headphones that won’t set you back $200 and are ideal for transferring between your studio and smartphone, look no further. Consider looking at these Audio Technica over-ear, wireless over-ear headphones with exciting features.
Who are they perfect for?
- All those in need of over-ear headphones for both work and leisure usage
- Individuals with a knack for decent sound & convenience – integrated controls and Bluetooth
- Musicians for decent sound clarity
Design
It maintains the conventional studio headphone look, with a plastic all-black shell. Additionally, each earcup’s front and each hinge’s side have circular silver embellishments and these cans are resilient and convenient for transport. For easy packing inside any backpack or pouch with additional room to carry other items, the earcups swivel and fold inward.
However, the intense clamp force will make wearing them on your head for longer than an hour somewhat uncomfortable. The earcups’ smooth and comfortable cushioning eventually becomes heated to the touch, and the headband proves to offer little support. Given the weight of these headphones, you must appropriately position the extenders to avoid slippage.
Sound & Noise Cancellation
The stereo imaging on the ATH-M50xBT2 is quite impressive. In contrast to many wireless headphones in the midrange price category, these headphones can precisely determine the direction of individual sounds in tracks.
In case you want to place greater focus on a certain frequency, Audio-Technica offers consumers the option to customize the headphones’ sound by choosing from five distinct EQs in the Audio Technica app available on Play Store and the App Store:
- Original (the default)
- Bass Boost
- Clear Vocal
- Treble Enhanced
- V-Shaped
However, due to muffling difficulties and the microphones letting in too much outside sound, the ATH-M50xBT2 isn’t really useful as a calling headset. The voice in both audio and video conversations is drowned out by background noise due to a lack of noise isolation, regardless of the setting.
Special Features
You may also change the audio between the left and right speakers and the volume levels in 16 to 64 stages using the Audio-Technica Connect app. A visual fast guide, a volume adjuster, and battery level indicators are further interesting features.
These headphones have an exceptionally long Bluetooth range, enabling up to 45 feet of cordless listening before dropout. AAC, SBC, LDAC, and a low-latency video mode are among its available codecs. Android users can select LDAC for (inconsistent) high-resolution audio while Apple users should stay with AAC for the best results.
Pairing was quick on Android devices thanks to one-touch Google Fast Pair and for individuals who prefer to watch movies on their laptops while talking to their buddies on the phone, multipoint technology can be used to pair the headset to two devices at once.
Software & Controls
The control layout, although straightforward, is adaptable and diverse. An action button to activate the built-in digital assistant on your smartphone is located above a three-button module mounted on the left earcup for playback, call management, power/pairing, and volume control. Each button has a firm tactile response, guaranteeing that orders are carried out with each short, long, or multiple push.
Final thoughts
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 over-ear headphones are recommended for anybody looking to spend less than $200 USD on a pair of high-quality headphones that also meet essential criteria like connectivity and battery life.
They are simply enjoyable to listen to, and the extended battery life with an optional headphone connector encourages a decent musical experience. They’ve got very unique features that you will enjoy toying around with if you’re invested in sound and are very convenient for modern-day use.
They do, however, have shortcomings in terms of call quality, noise isolation, a shoddy companion app, and an ineffectual ANC but overall, are a great buy.
3. Audio Technica ATH-AD700X
Key features
Price: $118
Type: Open back
Connectivity: Wired
Cable: 3.0m
Driver Size: 53 mm
Frequency Response: 5 – 30,000 Hz
Sensitivity: 100 dB/mW
Weight: 265 g
Connector: 1/8″ (3.5 mm) mini stereo, gold-plated
Accessories: Detachable 1/4″ (6.3 mm) adapter
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Wide soundstage | ❌ Weak bass |
| ✅ Clear & precise sound depiction | ❌ Unavoidable leakage |
| ✅ Good quality cable | ❌ Cheap feel & uncomfortable fit |
| ✅ Lightweightness |
Are you looking for a pair of open back Audio Technica headphones that cost less than $150 and don’t have a lot of bass? It’s unquestionably the open-back Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X headphones.
Who are they perfect for?
- Gamers for competitive gaming sessions
- People who enjoy vocals more than bass
- Individuals in search of a pair for casual listening
Design
At this pricing range, it is reasonable to anticipate that these headphones will be composed of plastic. While this gives these headphones a shoddy look, it also makes all of the weak places of the headband stronger with a large field of plastic. The ear cups are sufficiently sturdy and light to withstand a few falls without breaking.
The unusual headband design contains several joints and moving parts, though, which will deteriorate with continued usage and since their design isn’t very flexible, we recommend using an alternative if you’re in need of a pair that you can carry while commuting or working. They’re really good for gaming though, and they are comfortable when resting on one’s head.
Sound
This pair of over ear headphones offers the finest soundstage below $150 and is a result of the latest 53 mm drivers with CCAW voice coils. These headphones are excellent in highlighting the flaws in audio recordings, and vocals are crystal clear and precise. Moreover, the instrument separation, honestly, is so good that you’ll probably want to replay all your favorite songs another time, just to fully experience the beautiful intricacies that you were unable to notice before.
Bass, on the other hand, is the region of the frequency range that is least noticeable in the overall sound signature, which is moderate. It is there; with promptness and accuracy but it just won’t do if you’re someone who looks forward to and enjoys heavy basslines.
Isolation
As is expected and usual of open-back headphones, the ATH-AD700X doesn’t isolate any sound below 2KHz. They are unable to suppress the treble range by more than 12dB over 2KHz. Furthermore, because these headphones are entirely open, both music and outside noise will flow in.
As a result, if you enjoy loud music and are worried about waking up others, they will not at all reduce the sound and will instead have the opposite effect.
Final thoughts
The ATH-AD700X headphones may not be the finest in terms of style and construction, but they are ideal for home listening, in-depth vocal experiences, and gaming sessions. The major draw is their wonderfully wide and airy sound, which not many headphones at this budget can match. However, they may not be particularly useful if you’re seeking for noise isolation and zero leakage.
4. Audio Technica ATH-M30X
Key features
Price: $79
Type: Closed-back
Connectivity: Wired
Cable: 3.0m
Driver Size: 40 mm
Frequency Response: 15 – 22,000 Hz
Sensitivity: 96 dB
Weight: 220 g
Connector: Gold-plated stereo 1/8” connector with strain relief
Accessories: Protective carrying pouch, 6.3 mm (1/4″) screw-on adapter
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Great price | ❌ Overheat easily |
| ✅ Comfortable | ❌ Very long wire |
| ✅ Impressive sound |
You won’t find any frills in this plain headset for tracking or monitoring your recordings but we have to admit that when it comes to value for money, the Audio Technica M30X certainly tops the charts.
Who are they perfect for?
- Bedroom DJs and music producers on a budget
- Podcasters wanting a comfortable fit and flexible cable
- All those in search of cheap recording headsets or backups
Design
The Audio-Technica ATH-30x headphones have a durable build for a low cost set. The headband is strong and reliable, and the hinges are trustworthy and secure as well. The construction is entirely made of plastic and for what would often be considered monitoring headphones, the clamping force appears to be more relaxed, which is ideal for those who wear glasses. They don’t differ much from the ATH-20X in terms of design, overall and are simply plug and play recording headphones.
Sound
Given its cost, the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x impresses in terms of sound quality. There are no grating tones, and the tonal range is clear and accurate at all frequencies. Although it does lose part of its tonal range at the high upper end, the high end is bright and tinny-free, and the mids are well-balanced with lots of body. If you combine music with lots of bass, you’ll like the pronounced thud the 40mm speakers provide. The lows are also rather impressive.
The 15Hz–22kHz frequency response is equivalent to more pricier headphones in the marketplace and it also has a rather flat sound delivery, perhaps a tad too bland for certain tastes. A happier EQ curve could be more to your taste but they’re a great option for mixing and mastering because of their peculiar flat response.
Needless to say, Audio-Technica has produced a fantastic pair of affordable over ear headphones that sound terrific at this price range.
Final thoughts
For their price range, the Audio-Technica M30X offer very high audio fidelity, but due to their closed-back construction, they have a subpar soundstage. Despite sometimes lacking a little openness, they score better than average for neutral listening. They feel cozy without overheating if you listen for less than two hours and although the lengthy wire cannot be removed and is difficult to repair if it breaks free, it is perfect for winding around a drum kit.
There are undoubtedly better headphones out there, but at this price, it is difficult to find a serious rival. The ATH-M30x provides adequate precision for aspiring DJs and producers on a tight budget to generate quality music. It’s a terrific option if you create podcasts because it’s simple to wear and sufficiently precise, and if you’re willing to deal with the lengthy wire, it’s also not too awful for casual listening at home.
Needless to say these Audio Technica over ear headphones are a wonderful set of novice DJ headphones because of the strong isolation and undoubtedly among the best affordable DJ headphones on the market right now, despite a few minor drawbacks.
5. Audio Technica ATH-M40X
Key features
Price: $119
Type: Closed-back
Cable: Includes two interchangeable cables: detachable 1.2 m – 3.0 m coiled cable and detachable 3.0 m straight cable
Driver Size: 40 mm
Frequency Response: 15 – 22,000 Hz
Sensitivity: 98 dB
Weight: 240 g
Connector: Gold-plated stereo 1/8” connector with strain relief
Accessories: Protective carrying pouch, 6.3 mm (1/4″) screw-on adapter
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Noteworthy sound | ❌ Overheat easily |
| ✅ Durable design | ❌ Average isolation |
| ✅ Versatile frequency response | ❌ No mic or remote on the wire |
| ✅ Value for money |
Who are they perfect for?
- Composers on a tight budget because of its studio-friendly features and more attenuated bass response
- All those that value audio above aesthetic frills because of its superior sound quality
Design
The ATH-M40X have a robust and durable build, and are mainly made of plastic. Since they aren’t the kind of over ear headphones made for athletic use, they’ll most probably fall off if you run or jump. For more relaxed listening periods, however, they will remain in position even if you put them on tilted and a little further back than normal. Another benefit for stability is the cable’s ability to detach.
The ear pads indeed feel luxurious, and the reasonable clamping force makes it easier to accommodate larger ears and use them for a longer period of time. However, because of the synthetic material of the ear pads and limited permeability, they have a tendency to absorb heat, and can get heated up pretty quickly. They can fold down into a more compact shape, making it easier to store or carry them though they can feel a little on the heavier side.
Connectivity & Sound
Let’s be honest: this pair of headphones does not have any touch controls that will make you stop and stare or Bluetooth connection, for that matter. What they do have, however, is really awesome sound quality.
Richness and detail can be experienced in the midrange and treble thanks to this deft sound-shaping. Whereas usually they are lost in the noise, the clarity and detail are there to be heard. These are a great option for picky listeners looking for an engaging, thrilling sound with lots of detail and a suitable alternative to the majority of contemporary headphones used for listening to hip hop and other bass-driven genres of music for music fans who aren’t slaves to the bass.
Final thoughts
For moderate listening, the Audio-Technica M40X provides a consistent bass, midrange, and treble response. Due to their closed-back build, they don’t offer a large soundstage, but the majority of listeners will still be happy with their well-balanced sound.
Overall, these are one of the best Audio Technica over ear headphones if you’re searching for a pair of over-ear headphones for less than $120 that offer excellent sound and extras. They feel hefty and do heat up after a while, but they’re a great buy for casual college strolls and midnight recording sessions.
5. Audio Technica ATH-SR30BT
Key features
Price: $99
Type: Closed-back
Connectivity: Wireless, USB
Wireless Communication: Bluetooth 5.0, Microphone
Bluetooth Operating Range: Line of sight – approx. 10 m
Driver Size: 40 mm
Frequency Response: 5 – 35,000 Hz
Sensitivity: 99 dB/mW
Weight: 193 g
Battery life: Approx. 70 hours (depending on operating conditions)
Charging time: Approx. 4 hours
Accessories: USB charging cable (30 cm (12″) USB Type A / Micro USB Type B)
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Impressive battery life | ❌ Overheat easily |
| ✅ Great price | ❌ Average isolation |
| ✅ Lightweight feel and comfortable fit | ❌ No mic or remote on the wire |
| ✅ Easily portable |
Are good sound, a reliable fit, and a longer battery life on your list when buying your new over-ear headphones, but you’re not sure whether you can get them at a price that won’t break the bank? We present to you, the greatest wireless over-ear Audio Technica ATH-SR30BT headphones under $100.
Who are they perfect for?
- Casual listeners & on-the-go workers needing Bluetooth and portable headphones
- Podcast and movie fanatics in search of longer battery life
Design
What really stands out about the ATH-SR30BT is, without doubt, its 70-hour battery life though you may want to keep in mind that there’s no cable input, so charging on an airplane may not exactly work. The other distinguishable spec that sets these Audio Technica over ear headphones apart from the competition is its Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. The most recent Bluetooth version truly raises the bar for audio quality and delivers clarity that Bluetooth 4.2 just cannot compete with.
The controls on the headset have a very easy-to-use and simple design. We’ve got 3 buttons on the left earpiece that let you choose between tracks, pause and resume playback, and adjust volume. To make hands-free calls, you can also engage your voice assistant, and thankfully, pairing isn’t too much work. The headset will remember your device and automatically connect to it when turned on and in range after it has been paired the first time.
Sound
For a wireless headset, the soundstage possesses height, depth, and remarkably accurate instrument placement. Upon testing the headset, we discovered that the mids were present and well-balanced, while the lows were crystal clear and perfectly balanced—neither too heavy nor too light.
Although the upper frequencies didn’t have a lot of definition, the smoothness of the string instruments was soothing to the ears. In addition, the percussion in this range was incredibly crisp and dazzling, giving pop music a satisfying edge and providing the listener with an overall enjoyable experience.
Final thoughts
The ATH-SR30BT have a pretty decent build and are easily portable, given their lightweight design. They offer excellent Bluetooth 5.0 sound for under $100 and the fact that their battery life lasts up to 70 hours is extraordinary.
Although they do lack smart on-board controls and a premium feel, they’ve got impressive, clean sound that works well with all genres. The ATH-SR30BT are, in our opinion, the best wireless over-ear headphones you’ll ever discover from Audio Technica for under $100.
Got any other headphones you’d like for us to review, let us know!