Audio Technica ATH-M50xSTS Headset Review by ShortCircuit

A detailed review of the Audio Technica ATH-M50xSTS, a gaming headset with built-in microphone based on the popular ATH-M50x headphones.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• 🎧 The Audio Technica ATH-M50xSTS headset is a hybrid of the popular ATH-M50x headphones with an added microphone, designed for gamers and streamers.

• 🎤 The built-in microphone provides excellent audio quality, with no setup required and potential for minor tweaks to enhance sound.

• 🕹️ While the headset performs well in casual gaming, it may not be the best choice for highly competitive gaming scenarios due to its stereo sound limitation.

• 💵 Priced at $229 for the USB version, it's considered a good value given the quality of both the headphones and the microphone, though some possible trade-offs include non-removable cables.

• 🔄 The headset offers versatility with different connectivity options like USB, XLR, and 3.5mm, catering to various user setup needs.

📝 Timestamped Summary

00:10 Overview of ATH-M50xSTS:

• Introduction to the hybrid headset model combining ATH-M50x headphones with a built-in microphone.
• Key features include USB and non-USB versions, condenser microphone, and various plug types for versatility.

01:53 Unboxing and Accessories:

• The unboxing reveals spare ear pads and multiple cable types including USB, USB-C, and an adapter for traditional audio interfaces.

03:43 Design and Build Quality:

• Discusses the design elements like the leatherette headband, ratchet adjustment, and the unique microphone design with a flip-to-mute feature.

05:28 Audio and Microphone Testing:

• Demonstrates the microphone quality through a test recording.
• Highlights the sound quality of the headphones, emphasizing their suitability for casual listening and gaming.

07:09 Gaming Performance:

• Evaluates the headset's performance in gaming scenarios, discussing its limitations in competitive settings due to lack of surround sound support.

08:44 Price and Value Discussion:

• Breaks down the pricing for different versions of the headset and compares it to potential alternatives in the market.

10:04 Final Recommendations:

• Concludes with overall recommendations based on the performance, features, and price of the ATH-M50xSTS headset.

❓ FAQ

Is the Audio Technica ATH-M50xSTS suitable for professional audio work?

While it provides good sound quality and a solid microphone, it might not completely meet the demands of professional audio work due to its closed-back design and stereo output limitations.

Can I replace the microphone on the ATH-M50xSTS?

No, the microphone on the ATH-M50xSTS is built-in and not removable, which may limit customization for users who prefer a modular setup.

Are there any other color options available for the ATH-M50xSTS?

The review does not mention specific color options. For the most accurate information on available colors, it's best to check directly with Audio-Technica or authorized retailers.

🎬 Conclusion

The Audio Technica ATH-M50xSTS proves to be a reliable option for gamers and streamers looking for a high-quality audio experience. Its solid build, excellent sound quality, and superb microphone make it a strong contender in its price range. Whether you're streaming, gaming, or just enjoying music, the ATH-M50xSTS is worth considering. For more details and to see the headset in action, make sure to watch the full video by ShortCircuit.