- Audio-Technica is one of the top headphone brands in the market.
- They’ve got 60+ headphones for all sorts of casual or critical listening.
- Use this guide to find the best over-ear headphones for your needs.
- Also, check out the 7 best headphones to record vocals.
The headphone market is brutal, but Audio-Technica has come through among countless manufacturers. Their success rests on the shoulders of their ability to craft headphones with high-quality sound and exceptional price-to-performance ratios.
We also rate them highly, evidenced by their presence in our picks for the best headphone brands in the world. So, if you want top-notch over-ear headphones, Audio-Technica is a bonafide choice. Unfortunately, that’s the easy part of your shopping journey.
There are currently 60+ headphones in AT’s catalog, with wired, wireless, ANC, circumaural, supra-aural, open-back, and closed-back designs. Over half of those are over-ear headphones. That level of choice overload, more often than not, leads to cognitive impairment.
We scanned the entire listing of Audio-Technica cans to create a guide to the best Audio-Technica over-ear headphones. The “best headphone” being highly individual, we systematically laid out the best models according to price, design, and application.
Here are the seven best Audio-Technica over-ear headphones you can buy in 2022.
Best Over-Ear Audio-Technica Headphones – Our Top Picks
The ATH-m50x is a high-regarded model when it comes to Audiotechnica over-ear headphones. It’s tough to find cans from competitors that can do better for the cash, too. It’s a mid-priced pick with great all-around performance.
For non-studio applications, the ATH-m50xBT is a solid choice if you want to go wireless. Consider the Audio Technica ATH ANC900BT for high-quality noise-canceling cans if you don’t have the budget for top dogs in the segment like Bose or Sony.
If you are looking for Audio Technica mixing headphones, the ATH-M20X is the best budget pick, although they make for better monitor headphones when bought in bulk. The ATH-R70X is the best open-back option, but you must dig deeper into your pockets.
Here are the seven best Audiotechnica over-ear headphones of 2022.
- Best Multi-Use: Audio-Technica ATH-m50x Headphones
- Best Budget: Audio-Technica ATH-M20X Headphones
- Best Open-Back: Audio Technica ATH-R70X Headphones
- Best for Gaming: Audio-Technica ATH-G1WL Headphones
- Best for DJing: Audio-Technica ATH-M70X Headphones
- Best Noise-Cancelling: Audio-Technica ATH ANC900BT Headphones
- Best Wireless: Audio-Technica ATH-m50xBT Headphones
Audio-Technica ATH-m50x Over-Ear Headphones – Our Pick!
Audio Technica's flagship M series headphones are best sellers, featuring 45mm neodymium magnet drivers that deliver the accurate frequency response and stunning detail you need to make sound decisions when you’re recording, mixing, or DJing.
The best Audio Technica headphones with regards to price-performance ratio…
If you are a Producer Hive regular, you know we never miss a chance to moon over the ATH-m50x. It’s a Swiss-knife-kinda headset that’s resourceful in a variety of applications. For those reasons, we honor this multi-use headset again, but this time with the mantle of the best all-around Audio-Technica over-ear headphones.
KEY SPECS
- Design: Closed-back over-ear headphones
- Driver: 45 mm drivers with neodymium magnet
- Impedance: 38 ohms
- Frequency Response: 15 Hz to 28,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 99 dB
- Weight: 285 grams (10 oz) without cable
REVIEW
We’ve featured these closed-back over-ear cans as one of the seven best headphones to record vocals. So, we won’t get into the weeds this time around. However, we will consider why the ATH-M50x is one powerhouse of a headset at this price point.
There are three reasons to love the Audio Technica ATH-M50x – a) it’s lightweight, versatile, and ships with a generous amount of accessories, b) the sound quality is excellent for the price, b) the detachable cable and earcups can be replaced, which adds to the lifespan of the headset.
In a nutshell, you can use over-ear headphones for casual and critical listening. They are one of the best-known Audio Technica mixing headphones, and the ATH-M50x is right next to it in the catalog for those who prefer a wireless version.
VERDICT
The Audio-Technica ATH-m50x headphones can satiate every need for modern listeners, except for travel-friendly headphones. They are too bulky, honestly. Other than that, these monitor headphones strike a sweet spot with performance, sound quality, and pricing. They have dominated the bestselling list and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.
Related: The 7 Best Headphones for Recording Vocals (All Budgets)
2. Audio-Technica ATH-M20X
he ATH-M20x professional monitor headphones are a great introduction to the critically acclaimed M-Series line. Modern design and high-quality materials combine to deliver a comfortable listening experience, with enhanced audio and effective isolation.
The best over-ear Audio Technica headphones on a shoe-string budget.
ATH-M20x headphones are easily the best entry-level Audio Technica over-ears in the current market. These closed-back cans feature 40mm drivers (with neodymium magnets), a lightweight plastic build, and padded ear cups with vinyl covers. The headset connects to audio devices via a non-detachable 3.5 mm cable and comes with a 1/4-inch adapter but no other freebies.
KEY SPECS
- Design: Closed-back wired-only over-ear headphones
- Drivers: 40 mm
- Frequency: 5 – 40,000 Hz
- Impedance: 47 ohm
- Sensitivity: 97 dB
- Weight: 190g (6.7 oz) without a cable
REVIEW
The closed-back ATH-M20x over-ear headphones boast a fairly accurate frequency response, snug over-ear seal, and reasonable passive noise exclusion. The bass response, however, is far from groundbreaking. It’s pretty good for the price, but it may not appease bass heads.
The plastic frame keeps things lightweight, and vinyl ear pads are obvious concessions to keep costs low. Consequently, these headphones can cause ‘hot ear’ sensations after a few hours of continuous use. It is not a big deal for the average consumer, who will take periodic breaks anyway.
So, who should get the Audio-Technica ATH-M20x headphones?
Anyone on a budget will be drawn to the cost-value ratio of the ATH-M20x headphones. They are ideal studio monitor cans for bedroom producers (on a budget), casual listeners, and podcasters. Studio owners can also buy these in bulk as inexpensive tracking headsets.
Again, these cans are bulky and not the best travel headphones. If you can move upstream, we recommend the ATH-M40x. It has softer ear cups and a removable cable. A removable cable can be replaced when needed, which increases the headphones’ lifespan.
VERDICT
The ATH-M20x is one of the best studio-style headphones for under $50. It lets you sample the AudioTechnica over-ear headphones experience without getting spendy. It’s not as sonically refined as the ATH-m50x, but it is also one-third of the price, either way, it’s money well spent.
Related: 5 Best Studio Headphones Under $200 For Beginners
3. Audio-Technica ATH-R70x
Audio-Technica’s flagship, open-back professional reference headphones feature specially designed drivers and acoustically transparent housings fashioned from aluminum honeycomb mesh.
The best Audio Technica mixing headphones and comfy critical listening cans.
The ATH-R70x is famed for its pleasing tonality, best-in-class comfort, and great staging experience. These open-back over-head headphones feature a sturdy plastic frame, 45mm drivers, padded ear cups with fabric covers, and a detachable locking cable. The headphones come with a storage pouch, ¼” adapter, and a 3m straight cable (no coiled alternative).
KEY SPECS
- Design: Wired, Open-back, Over-ear
- Driver: 45 mm carbon composite
- Frequency: 5 – 40,000 Hz
- Impedance: 470 ohms
- Sensitivity: 99 dB
REVIEW
The ultra-light R70x delivers a wide and natural listening experience while limiting fatigue. The dual-sided detachable cable and headband wing supports are other standout features. The wing supports feel more comfortable than traditional headbands, especially if you run hot.
So, who should get the AT-R70x headphones? These over-ear cans are ideal for mixing or hi-fi listening. Consider them if you need high-quality open-back headphones to polish a mix. Understandably, they are not suitable for tracking or listening to music on the subway.
These cans are great for critical listening because there’s no hype, humps, or harshness.
The bass response is smooth and accurate without false fatness or boom. The wide stereo image and clear articulation support efforts to polish a dense mix or work with complex sound fields. It’s easy to place EQ and reverb and spot phase correlation issues or compression artifacts.
VERDICT
The ATH-R70x is the most comfortable open-back headphones under $500, not just in the Audio-Technica listing. These over-ears are ideal for audiophiles or mixing artists who love to hear everything going on. They stay clean and crisp no matter how much you drive them. Moreover, rivals with comparable quality will set you down by an additional $100.
Related: Open-back vs Closed-Back Headphones (Pros, Cons & Which to Get)
4. Audio-Technica ATH-G1WL Over-Ear Headphones
he Audio-Technica ATH-G1WL is a premium wireless headset designed for serious gamers who want to take full command of their computer gaming experience. Operating in the 2.4 GHz range (outside TV bands), the ATH-G1WL lets you communicate with fellow gamers and a streaming audience without encountering any lag or interference.
The best over-ear Audio Technica headphones for gamers., IRL.
The ATH-G1WL headset is yet another feather in the Audio-Technica cap. The headset takes inspiration from the M50x design, suitably modified to create go-to cans for gamers. It features 45mm drivers, a detachable boom mic, oval ear pads, and a metal headband with a leatherette pad. It connects with a 2.4GHz dongle, resulting in an exceptional wireless experience.
KEY SPECS
- Design: Closed-back over-ear headphones w/ mic
- Drivers: 45 mm
- Frequency: 5 – 40,000 Hz
- Impedance: 45 ohms
- Sensitivity: 101 dB/mW
- Weight: 297g (10.5 oz) without a cable
REVIEW
This gaming headset features ear pads with 0.5-inch memory foam cushions covered with fabric and leatherette. Additionally, there’s a detachable boom mic, surround sound, 2.4 GHz wireless capabilities, and a 15-hour battery life. Yes, you can use them as they charge up.
So, who should get the Audio-Technica ATH-G1WL headphones?
This over-ear headset is a shoo-in for gamers, particularly those who love a heavy bass response in an uber-comfy headset. Remote workers and podcasters can also consider these headphones for their ear pad comfort and microphone quality.
Sound-wise, expect exceptional stereo imaging, with recessed mids and a noticeable lift in the lows and highs. These tweaks allow specific gaming sounds to cut through, which gamers need in chaotic gaming situations. Plus, they can be worn for hours with any hot-ear sensation.
VERDICT
These are the best Audio-Technica over-ear headphones for gaming due to their spatial accomplishments and cinematic soundscape. The battery life may deter dedicated gamers, but the headset can be used while charging. If you want to spend less, consider the Audio-Technica ATHG1L or ATH-GDL3 as alternatives.
5. Audio-Technica ATH-M70x Over-Ear Headphones
Audio-Technica's ATH-M70x professional monitor headphones are the company's new flagship M series model. Designed to bring out all the detail in your mixes, the ATH-M70x features proprietary 45mm large-aperture drivers tuned to accurately reproduce extreme low and high frequencies while maintaining perfect balance.
A DJ fave with sound reproduction capabilities for general studio duties.
The ATH-M70X is the most popular Audio-Technica headset for DJing. These closed-back over-ears are designed for pro-grade (one-ear) monitoring with 45mm large-aperture drivers, 90-degree swiveling ear cups, and deep bass response. They are tuned to reproduce frequencies between 5 and 40,000 Hz accurately.
KEY SPECS
- Design: Closed-back over-ear headphones
- Drivers: 45 mm large-aperture drivers
- Frequency: 4 – 40,000 Hz
- Impedance: 35 ohms
- Sensitivity: 97 dB
- Weight: 280g (9.9 oz) without a cable
REVIEW
The ATH-M70x is the best over-ear Audio-Technica Headphones for DJing for three reasons – a) deep and accurate bass response, b) comfort over long sessions, and c) top-notch sound isolation.
DJs prefer sonically capable headphones cans with excellent noise isolation and comfort. The circumaural design of these over-ear cans delivers superior isolation, the ear cups promise comfort for live situations, and the headset is tuned for accuracy with bass extension. Bravo!
That said, these over-ear headphones don’t have a V-shaped sound if that’s what you prefer. So, don’t expect any boosted bass or sound coloration. The headset is tuned to reproduce balanced and accurate sounds across a wide frequency range with top-notch bass extension.
VERDICT
Audio-Technica recommends the ATH-M70X and ATH-M60X for DJing, studio mixing, and other audio forensics. The M60X are on-ear headphones, noticeably less comfortable than the M70X. Also, the large over-ears block out more high-frequencies, which is why they made the grade in our roundup.
Related: The 7 Best DJ Headphones for Beginners (All Budgets)
Audio Technica ATH-ANC700BT Over-ear Headphones
The ATH-ANC900BT QuietPoint wireless over-ear headphones feature digital hybrid noise-cancelling technology for the highest degree of ambient noise reduction of any QuietPoint model.
The best noise-canceling Audio-Technica over-ear headphones.
The Audio-Technica ATH-ANC700BT is a foldable headphone with 40mm drivers, built-in touch controls, Bluetooth wireless tech, and a four-microphone feedback system to counter environmental noise. These over-ear headphones come with an aux cable, a 1.2m cable with stereo mini-plug, Micro USB charging cable, and a draw-string carry bag.
KEY SPECS
- Design: Active noise-canceling over-ear headphones
- Drivers: 40 mm drivers
- Frequency: 5 – 40,000 Hz
- Impedance: 35 ohms and 150 ohms (ANC)
- Sensitivity: 95 to 98 dB
- Weight: 250g (8.8 oz) without a cable
REVIEW
The ATH-ANC700BT is a lightweight headset that works wirelessly (or wired) and feels comfortable for long listening periods. It has a stout plastic build and decent tech for the price. The left ear cup sports intuitive touch controls, a MicroUSB port, an aux port, and a power switch.
These are mid-level ANC cans with a good balance of price and performance.
So, who should buy the ATH-ANC700BT? These mixed-usage headphones will appease anyone who needs no-frills ANC cans without breaking the bank. The headset is lightweight and has an above-average battery life (25 hours). So, consider these if you need travel headphones.
The bass response is not boosted, so skip these if you love cans with mega-bass.
The sound quality varies between the wired and wireless connection, more so when noise canceling is engaged. Unlike studio headphones, the emphasis in these is on the mid-range, trading neutral sound for warmth. The high-end is also extended and tuned to let more detail come through.
VERDICT
The ANC tech of these over-ear headphones is not comparable to premium ANC cans by Bose or Sony or other bestsellers in this segment. But those headset costs twice as much or more. The ATH-ANC700BT looks elegant and offers equitable value. With only three models to choose from, these are the best noise-canceling headphones in the Audio-Technica catalog.
Related: The 9 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Tinnitus
7. Audio-Technica ATH-m50xBT Over-Ear Headphones
A-T’s flagship M series ’phones are best sellers, featuring 45mm neodymium magnet drivers that deliver the accurate frequency response and stunning detail you need to make sound decisions when you’re recording, mixing, or DJing.
The untethered version of the best over-ear Audio Technica headphones you saw up top.
It’s hard to ignore the Audio Technica ATH-m50xBT when you search for the best wireless over-ear headphones under $200. These Bluetooth-equipped cans have sold by the thousands and come with a micro-USB charging cable, a 3.5mm headphone cable, and a storage pouch.
KEY SPECS
- Design: Wireless over-ear headphones w/ Bluetooth 5.0
- Drivers: 40 mm drivers
- Frequency: 15 – 28,000 Hz
- Impedance: 38 ohms
- Sensitivity: 99 dB
- Battery life: 40 hours on a full charge
- Weight: 250g (8.8 oz) without a cable
REVIEW
The ATH-M50xBT2 looks, sounds, and behaves like its tethered sibling, the ATH-m50x. The left ear cup has a touch panel for volume, play/pause. There is another button on the edge to access Siri or speech-recognition assistants.
These Audio-Technica headphones are equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 and work glitch-free in a 10m range. A full charge takes approximately seven hours and yields 40 hours of continuous use.
Moreover, these over-ear headphones are lightweight and easy to pack, making them an excellent choice for travel. They also have a snug fit and decent noise exclusion, but the isolation isn’t great in awfully noisy environments. You’ll need ANC cans for that.
Lastly, two more contenders for the best wireless AudioTechnica over-ear headphones are ATH-M20xBT ($79) and ATH-S220BT ($59). Both headsets offer excellent value, but the ATH-M20xBT is a better budget alternative.
VERDICT
The Audio-Technica ATH-m50xBT is a cost-effective headset to experience sound clarity with wired or wireless listening. These headphones are ideal for settling down with a coffee to listen to your favorite tracks or podcast. They also boast multipoint connectivity, best-in-class battery life, and a good listen when you are on to go.
FAQ
Which Audio Technica headphones are the best for music production?
We recommend the Audio Technica ATH-M50x for bedroom producers or studio owners who want to buy tracking and monitor headphones in bulk. Consider the open-back over-ear ATH-R70x headphones for mixing. The ATH-M20x is our budget pick, best suited for those on a budget or dipping their toes in the music production waters.
Is Audio-Technica ATH-M50x good for mastering?
The Audio Technica ATH-M50x does not have a flat frequency response, which these studio headphones are ideal for mastering. Moreover, the closed-back design, heavy bass response, colored sound, and lack of (top-end) detail suggests that you need better studio headphones for the task.
Does Audio-Technica M50x need an amp?
The Audio-Technica M50x headphones do not need an amp as they don’t have high impedance. Amps are needed for headphones with an impedance of 100 ohms or above. The Audio-Technica headset has 38 ohms impedance. So, the headphones will not sound better with amplification.