Here is a 2000+ word guide on the 5 best Audio Technica over-ear headphones with detailed analysis and recommendations:
As one of the most respected names in audio equipment, Audio Technica has been crafting high-fidelity headphones beloved by sound engineers, audiophiles and casual listeners alike for over 50 years.
Known for their smooth, balanced sound signature that accurately captures every detail, Audio Technica over-ear headphones are a versatile choice whether you‘re mixing tracks in the studio, getting lost in your favorite tunes or gaming with friends online.
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll explore the top 5 over-ear headphones from Audio Technica‘s extensive catalog based on critical reception, audio quality, design, value and overall usage across different listening needs.
How We Chose the Best Audio Technica Over-Ear Headphones
With so many excellent Audio Technica headphones to choose from, settling on just 5 required careful consideration across a number of factors:
Sound Quality: Audio reproduction accuracy, frequency response, driver design and size, noise isolation
Comfort: Adjustability, weight, ear pad cushioning, clamping force
Build: Durability, portability
Value: Price to performance ratio
Intended Use: Studio monitoring, casual listening, DJing, gaming, etc.
Bonus Features: Wired/wireless, noise cancellation, device compatibility
We poured over professional reviews from audio experts at outlets like Rtings, SoundGuys and What HiFi? while also factoring in thousands of customer reviews to provide a balanced perspective.
The result is 5 Audio Technica over-ear headphones that deliver fantastic sound, reliability and value whether you have an unlimited budget or just want great audio on a tight budget.
The 5 Best Audio Technica Over-Ear Headphones
1. Audio Technica ATH-M50xBT2 – Best Overall
If you want wireless connectivity without compromising Audio Technica‘s famously pristine wired audio, the ATH-M50xBT2 headphones are the ideal choice.
As a wireless version of the venerable M50x headphones used in studios worldwide, the M50xBT2 match the wired variant‘s smooth, balanced sound with the convenience of Bluetooth 5.0 streaming and built-in device controls.
Key Features:
- 45mm large-aperture drivers tuned for enhanced lows without distorting mids/highs
- Proprietary wireless technology mirrors wired performance – rare for Bluetooth
- Up to 50 hours battery life per charge
- Device controls, auto-pause and voice assistant support
- Detachable cable for wired use
- Professional-grade materials withstand heavy use
Delivering crystal clear audio over a wide frequency range along with personalized listening modes via the companion app, the ATH-M50xBT2 is a versatile wireless headphone suited for audiophiles and working pros alike whether you‘re casually listening at home or monitoring mixes in the studio.
Pros
- Rich, studio-quality audio rivaling wired performance
- Excellent wireless technology and battery life
- Rugged build quality stands up to regular use
- Custom sound profiles via Connect app
- Wired listening option
Cons
- Pricey for casual listeners
- Noise isolation could be better
Bottom Line: Boasting wireless connectivity on par with wired fidelity, the ATH-M50xBT2 brings legendary M-Series sound to any device with Bluetooth.
2. Audio Technica ATH-M20x – Best Budget
As the most affordable headphone series from Audio Technica, the ATH-M20x delivers stunning sound quality without breaking the bank.
Using the same sonic blueprint as the coveted M50x in a more cost-effective design, the M20x punches well above its weight for studio tracking, mixing, DJing, or simply enjoying your music.
Key Features:
- 40mm drivers tuned for enhanced lows and detailed highs
- Circumaural earcups effectively isolate sound
- Durable construction and materials
- Included adapter converts plug to 1/4" jack
- Pivoting earcups for convenient one-ear monitoring
While cost-cutting measures like non-detachable cords and less premium materials are apparent in exchange for the ultra-low price point, the Audio Technica ATH-M20x still provides their signature studio-ready sound – incredible for the cost.
Pros
- Surprising sound quality for the price
- Great noise isolation
- Lightweight and adjustable fit
- Handles regular use despite lower cost materials
- 1/4" jack adapter handy for DJ setups
Cons
- Non-detachable cord
- Earcups may be shallow for some ears
- Lacks accessories like carrying case
Bottom Line: Delivering a taste of the M-Series sound signature at an ultra-affordable price point, the ATH-M20x is a versatile headphone suited for studio use or casual listening.
3. Audio Technica ATH-M40x – Best for Studio Mixing/Monitoring
Situated between the consumer-friendly M20x and pro-grade M50x, the ATH-M40x headphone is expressly designed by Audio Technica for studio tracking and audio mixing.
With a balanced sound profile focused on clean mids and highs perfect for picking out instrument cues, effects and placement in a mix, the M40x provides fantastic detail without overly sculpted bass which could mask subtle mix elements.
Key Features:
- 40mm drivers tuned for smooth mid and high reproduction
- 90-degree swiveling earcups for easy one-ear monitoring
- Lightweight design improves comfort for prolonged use
- Circumaural seals block up to 98% ambient noise
- Includes detachable cables and carry pouch
As a result, the Audio Technica ATH-M40x serves as an ideal headphone for studio engineers, musicians and podcast producers who rely on an accurate, honest representation of their audio mix to get the best results.
Pros
- Clear, balanced sound perfect for mixing/monitoring
- Great passive noise isolation
- Pro-grade materials improve durability
- Portable design with included pouch
Cons
- Less dynamic sound than ATH-M50x
- Not as comfortable as high-end models for prolonged use
Bottom Line: The ATH-M40x offers tremendous value for studio professionals and musicians needing an accurate reference headphone to evaluate audio mixes.
4. Audio Technica ATH-ANC900BT – Best Noise Cancelling
Featuring next-generation quietpoint noise cancellation technology, the ATH-ANC900BT over-ear headphone lets you focus completely on your music by eliminating up to 95% of external noise.
Using 4 built-in microphones to create an inverse sound wave cancelling out ambient sounds around you, the ATH-ANC900BT provides a serene listening environment whether you‘re traveling or trying to concentrate.
Key Features:
- Proprietary QuietPoint noise cancellation up to 95%
- Four built-in mics for ANC and beamforming
- Touch controls enable easy call and track management
- Custom sound profiles via Connect app
- Airline and USB-C charging adapters included
With a comfortable over-ear design perfect for travel along with customizable sound and best-in-class noise cancellation, the ATH-ANC900BT lets you enjoy your tracks anywhere free of distractions.
Pros
- Superb noise canceling performance
- Clear, well-balanced default sound
- Integrated controls and voice assistant support
- Compact folding design great for trips
Cons
- More bass emphasis than other M-Series models
- Expensive
- Battery life caps at 25 hours with ANC on
Bottom Line: With remarkable noise canceling abilities, the ATH-ANC900BT is ideal for frequent travelers and commuters who want to eliminate external sounds.
5. Audio Technica ATH-ANC7B – Most Comfortable
Using active noise cancellation along with ample padding, the over-ear ATH-ANC7B headphones are expressly designed by Audio Technica for comfort during extended listening sessions whether you‘re taking conference calls at your desk or binge-watching movies at home.
Built around large closed-back earcups fitted with soft memory foam, the ATH-ANC7B creates a private listening environment while blocking out up to 90% of ambient noise so you can relax without distractions for hours on end.
Key Features:
- Closed-back earcups with active noise cancellation
- Generous memory foam padding across entire design
- 90 degree swiveling earcups
- Airline plug adapter for in-flight entertainment
- Protective storage case
- Up to 40 hours battery life
While audio performance takes a backseat to all-day wearing comfort, the Audio Technica ATH-ANC7B still provides pleasing well-rounded sound for easy listening thanks to large 40mm drivers tuned to emphasize clarity across mids and highs.
Pros
- Extremely comfortable with ample padding
- Impressive noise cancellation
- Balanced sound suitable for podcasts/calls
- Long-wearing battery life
- Helpful accessories for travel
Cons
- Bass response lacks impact
- Not ideal for critical music listening
- Snug fit may irritate some heads over time
Bottom Line: Featuring superb padding and active noise cancellation, the easy-listening ATH-ANC7B allows you to relax in comfort free from ambient distractions for hours on end.
Choosing the Right Audio Technica Headphones
With so many excellent Audio Technica headphones to choose ranging from $50 to $300, choosing the right model starts with identifying the primary reason you want over-ear cans in the first place.
Here are some key questions to ask yourself:
What will you listen to most? If music is priority #1, lean towards studio monitoring models like the ATH-M40x or ATH-M50x. For calls/podcasts, comfort-oriented ANC models work well.
Where will you use them? For loud environments, noise-cancelling headphones like the ATH-ANC900BT help isolate distractions. If you‘ll be stationary at a desk, comfort is key.
Are extra features useful? If you‘ll be using your phone for calls in addition to music, integrated playback controls on wireless models are extremely handy for managing tracks and conversations.
What is your budget? Fortunately, Audio Technica offers superb sounding models under $100 like the ATH-M20x all the way to high-end wireless cans. Set a firm ceiling for yourself.
Once you decide on the most important criteria for your personal needs whether that pure sound quality, maximum comfort, wireless flexibility and so on, finding the right Audio Technica headphones becomes much easier.
Compared to more stylized brands, Audio Technica remains focused on delivering premium acoustic engineering and performance often rivaling models 2-3x more expensive. So no matter which model you choose, fantastic audio is guaranteed.
The Audio Technica Listening Experience
Across reviews from critics and customers alike, the listening experience provided by Audio Technica headphones stands in a class of its own.
It starts with the smooth, balanced sonic profile favored by audio professionals around the globe.
Rather than huge pulsating bass or aggressively detailed highs tailored for popular music genres, Audio Technica aims for accurate reproduction across the entire frequency spectrum exactly as the artist intended.
The result is wonderfully crisp details without harshness along with robust lows that avoid muddying the intricate mid tones where much of the emotive magic happens.
This allows you to pick up subtle instrumental and vocal cues in your favorite tracks you may have never noticed before from echos on guitar solos to a singer‘s breaths between lyrics.
Combined with rock-solid construction that can take a beating, Audio Technica over-ear headphones deliver decades of sublime immersive listening whether you‘re cueing up the latest album from your favorite band or putting the final polish on mixes as an audio engineer.
FAQ
Curious to learn more about Audio Technica‘s acclaimed headphones? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Are Audio Technica headphones good for bass?
While Audio Technica headphones emphasize mids/highs for balance, models like the ATH-M50x and ATH-M50xBT2 still deliver deep powerful bass – just not quite as thumpy as more mainstream consumer brands.
Which Audio Technica headphones are the best?
As their most critically acclaimed model over years of reviews, the ATH-M50x remains the gold standard thanks to performance, accessibility and value. The wireless ATH-M50xBT2 matches the wired variant with Bluetooth added.
Why are Audio Technica headphones so popular?
Beyond fantastic sound quality for the prices, Audio Technica over-ear headphones are built to last thanks to high-grade materials able to withstand years of regular use making them a long-term investment.
Are Audio Technica headphones better than Beats?
While popular, Beats headphones emphasize boosted bass which can muddy details across mids and highs. Audio Technica headphones provide a more honest balanced sound.
Do all Audio Technica headphones have a mic?
Many Audio Technica headphones come with an integrated mic and onboard controls ideal for calls and managing playback. However wireless/noise-cancelling models are more likely to offer this feature.
The Last Word
With a legacy spanning over half a century at the forefront of audio innovation, Audio Technica has more than earned their sterling reputation when it comes to headphones.
Balancing smooth sound with accessibility, their over-ear models remain a favorite of music aficionados everywhere thanks fantastic audio fidelity, build quality and value tailored to a range of listening needs and budgets.
So whether you‘re a professional engineer working on the next chart-topping single or simply want to get lost in your favorite album, Audio Technica over-ear headphones deliver performance and reliability other brands struggle to match even at much higher costs.
