Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xIB Limited Edition Ice Blue Headphones
Best professional-grade headphones for studio monitoring and critical listening.
Experience exceptional clarity and deep, accurate bass response with the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xIB Limited Edition headphones. Praised by audio engineers and reviewers, these over-ear, closed-back headphones offer superior sound isolation for critical listening in studios or on the go. Featuring proprietary 45 mm large-aperture drivers, they deliver a coveted sonic signature. The design includes comfortable, durable earpads and a headband, 90° swiveling earcups for easy monitoring, and a collapsible build for portability. Detachable cables ensure versatility for various professional and personal audio needs.
$169.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
434
/ 5578
#434 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
-71%
Below average
Type
Closed-back dynamic
/ Closed-back dynamic
Who it's for
- Style-conscious listeners wanting a unique, eye-catching aesthetic
- Daily commuters and creators needing durable, practical, and versatile gear
- Audio professionals and audiophiles seeking accurate, studio-grade sound reproduction
Who should skip it
- Minimalist travelers requiring compact, lightweight audio solutions
- Users with sensitive ears prone to pressure-related fatigue
- Modern listeners prioritizing wireless convenience and smart features
Performance breakdown
Sonic Accuracy
Studio-grade clarity provides a transparent, balanced sound profile for critical listening.
Sound Isolation
Closed-back design effectively blocks external noise for focused, immersive audio sessions.
Build Durability
Professional-grade materials withstand the rigors of daily studio and travel use.
Portability
Collapsible frame and swiveling earcups make these easy to pack away.
Cable Versatility
Three included detachable cable options cover every professional and personal scenario.
Long-term Comfort
Robust construction feels secure, though the clamping force is quite firm.
Key Specs
Type
Closed-back dynamic
Driver Diameter
45 mm
Frequency Response
15 - 28,000 Hz
Maximum Input Power
1,600 mW at 1 kHz
Sensitivity
99 dB
Impedance
38 ohms
Weight
285 g (10 oz), without cable and connector
Cable
Interchangeable cables: detachable 1.2 m - 3.0 m (3.9' - 9.8') coiled cable, detachable 3.0 m (9.8') straight cable and detachable 1.2 m (3.9') straight cable
Features
- Critically acclaimed sonic performance praised by top audio engineers and pro audio reviewers
- Proprietary 45 mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils
- Exceptional clarity throughout an extended frequency range, with deep, accurate bass response
- Circumaural design contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation in loud environments
- 90° swiveling earcups for easy, one-ear monitoring
- Professional-grade earpad and headband material delivers more durability and comfort
- Collapsible for space-saving portability
- Detachable cables (includes 1.2 m - 3.0 m coiled cable, 3.0 m straight cable and 1.2 m straight cable)
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Audio Technica ATH M50xIB headphones for their exceptional sound quality, delivering clear and balanced audio across various genres. Many highlight the impressive detail and accurate reproduction, making them a favorite for both casual listening and critical audio work. The striking limited edition Ice Blue design also receives significant appreciation, adding a stylish and unique aesthetic that stands out. Users feel these headphones offer a premium listening experience combined with a distinctive visual appeal.
Know before you buy
The ATH-M50xIB features the exact same internal components, driver technology, and sonic performance as the standard model. The primary difference is the exclusive Ice Blue colorway, making it a distinct aesthetic choice for those who want a unique look.
Yes, they are designed for comfort during extended use. The circumaural design and professional-grade earpads provide a secure fit, while the 90-degree swiveling earcups allow for convenient one-ear monitoring.
With an impedance of 38 ohms and a sensitivity of 99 dB, these headphones are easy to drive. You can achieve excellent volume and clarity directly from standard devices like smartphones, laptops, and audio interfaces without needing an external amplifier.
Yes, the cables are fully detachable. The headphones come with three different options—a coiled cable and two straight cables of varying lengths—so you can easily swap them out if one wears out or if you need a different length for your specific setup.
The closed-back, circumaural design provides significant passive noise isolation by creating a tight seal around your ears. While it does not feature active noise cancellation, it is highly effective at blocking out ambient background noise in busy studios or public spaces.
Yes, the headphones feature a collapsible design that allows them to fold into a compact shape. This makes them easy to store in the included protective carrying pouch for travel or storage.
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$169