Audio-Technica ATH-M30x Studio Headphones - Black

Audio-Technica ATH-M30x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones Review

The Audio-Technica ATH-M30x headphones have received overwhelmingly positive reviews from users. With advanced build quality and engineering, the 40mm drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils provide enhanced detail with excellent mid-range definition. The circumaural design contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation in loud environments, making them perfect for studio and field recording use. The single-side cable exit is also convenient for professional applications. Additionally, they are collapsible for space-saving portability and come with a protective carrying pouch and 6.3mm screw-on adapter.

Pros:

• Excellent sound isolation
• Enhanced detail with excellent mid-range definition
• Convenient single-side cable exit
• Collapsible for space-saving portability
• Protective carrying pouch and 6.3mm screw-on adapter included

Cons:

• Some users have reported discomfort during extended use
• The cable is non-detachable
• The earcups do not swivel on all axes

Overall, the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x headphones are an excellent choice for anyone looking for high-quality headphones for studio and field recording use. The advanced build quality and engineering, combined with the enhanced detail and excellent mid-range definition, make them a great investment for professionals and enthusiasts alike. However, some users have reported discomfort during extended use, and the non-detachable cable and limited earcup swivel may be a drawback for some.

Q: Are these over-ears? I mean will they cover the ears and not right on the ears?
A: Yes, they are circumaural, which means they cover the ears for excellent sound isolation in loud environments.

Q: Does it have a detachable cord?
A: No, only the ATH-M40x, ATH-M50x, ATH-M50x-R, ATH-M50x-BL, ATH-M50x-BL-R, ATH-M50x-WH, ATH-M50x-WH and ATH-M50mkII have detachable cables.

Q: What is the sound leakage when listening to music? Will the people around me hear my music as well?
A: The headphones have little sound leakage. You have to play music at a high volume for others close around you to hear it. If others around you can hear the music well, you are probably listening at a level unsafe for yourself.

Q: How well do they work when functioning as noise cancellation?
A: These headphones are not designed for noise cancellation. However, they offer excellent sound isolation in loud environments.

Q: Will these ATH-M30x headphones work on a tablet?
A: Yes, these headphones can easily be powered by any smartphone or tablet.

Q: How long is the cord?
A: The cord is 9.8 feet long.

Q: Does these headphones produce deep bass?
A: No, they do not produce an even tone or full level of deep bass. They have a claimed response of 15-20,000 Hz. However, with no parameters or test criteria provided on that spec (such as +-3dB vs reference), those specs don't mean much. In actual use, the response for low notes is down a lot compared to the upper midrange notes.

Q: Apparently these are made for recording and sound monitoring. Are they good for listening to music in general?
A: Yes, these headphones are very good for music. They are tuned for enhanced detail, with excellent mid-range definition.

Q: What is the difference between the M30x and the original M30? I'm trying to decide which pair to buy, but if the design is the only difference I'd probably like to save a little money and go with the M30s.
A: The ATH-M30x is a complete overhaul in design and has better sound quality than the original M30.

Q: How do these headphones compare to the M50x?
A: The ATH-M50x offers a much fuller sound than the ATH-M30x, with crisp, natural highs and warm, clear midrange. The bass is deep and rich, and very well defined without being boomy or muddy. Additionally, the build quality of the ATH-M50x is substantially better and more comfortable. The lower impedance on the ATH-M50x allows for more volume from the same output source, producing less distortion from over-driving them. Overall, while both headphones are good for music listening, the ATH-M50x is in a league of its own.