Home Headphone Comparisons Sony MDR 7506 vs Audio Technica ATH M50 | WHO’S BETTER!?

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Hi friend and Welcome!

Today I’m going to be giving you a very special review of the Sony MDR 7506 vs. the Audio Technica ATH M50!

I have owned the M50’s since January 2013 and used to have a pair of 7506’s. Both sets really made me look at music in a different way, and I’m excited today to tell you why!

So grab a snack, sit back, and relax…

You’ve come to the right place!!

What I will bring you in this review

of each headphone

  • Specifications
  • Summary
  • Pros
  • Cons
  • Amp/DAC requirements
  • Who these headphones benefit?
  • Consensus/Conclusion
  • Similarities & Differences
  • Final Word

Now without further ado, let’s get into things!

Audio Technica ATH M50 (and 50x)

M50x price: check Amazon! | Check Sweetwater!

  • M50 Price: Check Amazon! | Check B&H! | Check eBay!
  • Type: Closed back, dynamic.
  • Fit: Circumaural (on-ear).
  • Impedance: 38 Ohm. What is Headphone Impedance?
  • Frequency Response: 15 – 28,000 Hz.
  • Material: Plastic, Faux Leather, Metal.
  • Color: Black.

It should be noted that the M50’s are a bit different from the 50x’s. The 50x’s are in essence a slightly updated version, and come with:

  • Removable cable
  • A choice of different colors. Subject to Change.
  • contoured ear cups that seal tighter for improved isolation
  • a bit of added bass emphasis!

Outside of these things, the two are nearly identical in sound & build.

Summary

Expect to put these on and be amazed. After listening with them for the first time, I really got a sense of what I had been missing. If this is your first foray into audiophile-type equipment, these will really make you look at music in an entirely different way. Related: What is an Audiophile?

They aren’t neutral per se but do excellent as a mixing/reference headphone. They are colored in a sense, but to me, it never feels over the top. I would describe the sound as huge, full, and detailed. You will start to hear things in recordings that had previously been lost. These reach down really low, and give you a nice thump, without sounding bloated or artificial. They are tighter than a pantyhose homie!

Think of it this way: They do extremely well in a variety of different listening situations and musical genres. My friend who just purchased the 50x’s bought them for this purpose. There’s a reason these are so popular. They are a remarkably versatile set of cans.

Pros

  • Versatile. Expect to be using these as your go-to cans almost (if not outright) daily for a variety of different things.
  • Bass. It’s tight and controlled, while at the same time being loud and hard-hitting. Contributes to the “wow” factor upon first listen.
  • Comfort. These are a bit more comfortable overall than the 280, and you will find yourself wearing them over a longer period without adjustment.
  • Flexibility and build. It Contorts and folds in many of the same ways as the 280. A bit more flexible in this regard. This is one of their strongest suits contributing to longevity. There are simply fewer ways these can break given their ox-like build.
  • 3.5 mm jack. The little things are what impress me most, and the fact that these come with a protective coil at the end of the cord running into the 3.5 mm jack is priceless. I’m sure it’s saved these on many occasions since I’ve had them. Truly extraordinary.
  • Choice of coiled or straight cable. I normally opt for the straight cable, but the fact that you have a choice is nice. If you plan on using these out and about, I’d suggest the straight version.
  • Out of your head. Even as a closed-back model, these do exceptionally well with instrument separation and sound-stage. You may frequently remove them from your melon to see where the sound came from. They have very impressive imaging in this regard. What is Soundstage?

Cons

  • Ear cups. While comfortable, the ear cups are prone to cracking over time. I wouldn’t advise wearing these right out of the shower, as this has probably contributed to mine having this issue. The ear cups can be replaced and should be because they also flatten out a bit over a long period of daily use.
  • Even being able to wear them over a long period, the sound can get trapped inside your dome, leading to fatigue. Take a break, man!

My Video Review!

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Amp/DAC requirements

At 38 Ohms, none! How to choose a Headphone Amp!

Who these headphones benefit?

  • Bass-heads will love the tight, controlled, yet thumping quality these provide. Prepare to be amazed.
  • Producers who need a good mix-down. While not entirely neutral, these do excel in the studio as a reference monitor.
  • People who are looking for longevity and versatility from their purchase.
  • Those who want to be able to listen for long sessions with the occasional adjustment or break.

Consensus/Conclusion

A slick set of studio monitoring/reference cans that double as easy listening devices. Highly versatile, comfortable, and built to last. The ear-cups have been known to crack over time, but are replaceable. Closed-back design will force you to take a break every so often. Overall an amazing set.

Onto…

Sony MDR 7506

  • Price: Check Amazon! | Check Sweetwater! | Check B&H! | Check eBay!
  • Type: Closed back.
  • Fit: Circumaural.
  • Impedance: 63 Ohm.
  • Frequency Response: 10Hz – 20 kHz.
  • Material: plastic, a bit of metal, pleather.
  • Color: Black, Blue, Red, some Gold.

Summary

There’s so much to be said about the 7506’s that it’s hard to begin. These were the first pair of “higher end” headphones that I purchased when I made my foray into the world of audiophiles. Being that I had never spent more than $20 on headphones, it was quite a monumental purchase, to say the least.

These were the 1st headphones that made me look at music in an entirely different way. The 2nd pair being the Audio Technica ATH M50!

These are studio reference cans, and really improved my mixes tenfold when I was first starting out. They have a ton of clarity in the treble range most notably, but be aware that they can get harsh and shrill at times, especially after a long listening session.

The best way I can describe them is technical and analytical. They can bit a bit cold at times, which is perfect if you’re looking for an honest reference headphones. They do well as pure listening devices, but the main focus with these should be in the studio.

After putting them on for the first time, you will quickly see why they have been an industry standard for decades. You may have seen them on TV and radio in various instances, they are used heavily by professionals and amateurs alike.

Pros

  • Amazing reference headphones. An accurate reproduction of the music.
  • Neutral and flat, ideal for mixing.
  • Very comfortable.
  • Durable and long-lasting.
  • Balanced mids, lows, and highs, and a very pronounced mid-range.
  • Subtle nuances will be heard in your favorite records, which leads to a really enjoyable listening experience.
  • Folds up for easy storage.
  • 1/4″ adapter and synthetic leather carrying case included.
  • Pretty good movement in the ear-cups.

Cons

  • The coiled cable is not detachable and can get tangled frequently.
  • Potential to sound a bit boring, being so analytical.
  • Harshness in the upper mid and treble range, leading to fatigue.
  • A bit too bulky for consistent portable use.
  • Ear cups may start to peel after about a year or so, and leave little bits of black in your ears. One of mine actually came off and I had to frequently re-attach it.

Video Discussion/Review

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Amp/DAC requirements

At 63 Ohm, None! How to choose a headphone amp!

Who these headphones benefit?

  • Producers, or anyone looking for neutral and honest sound for their projects.
  • People who want a crisp clear sound, with a lot of detail. They are very revealing in this sense.

Consensus/Conclusion

These are the industry standard for a reason. They are some of the most reliable and honest headphones you will find at this price range or otherwise. Build quality is above average overall, but the ear-cups may present problems. They are meant for the studio and don’t really do well on the go.

Similarities & Differences

Similarities

  • They have a similar look and feel, although the 7506’s are more throwback.
  • They are both closed-back, circumaural models, with similar impedance. Closed back vs. Open back headphones
  • Both can be fatiguing and harsh in the high end, though overall the 7506’s more so.
  • Both have a similar headband adjustment (flashes of metal).

Differences

  • Sound. The M50’s are warmer and less neutral than the 7506’s and have a deeper bass response. While the 7506’s are more conducive to mixing, the M50’s are a “fun” and enjoyable listen. They do better overall in a wider variety of applications.
  • Comfort. Overall the M50’s are more comfortable and can be worn for a longer period of time.
  • Cable. Both are suited for studio use, but the M50’s are a little more portable if you opt for the straight cable version. The 7506’s do not have a straight cable option.
  • Headphone jack. The M50’s jack feels more durable and of a higher quality than the 7506’s.
  • Build Quality. The 7506’s feel less durable and there are certain components of the headphone that are prone to breaking down/falling off (The ear-cup most notably). By contrast, I haven’t had a major issue with the M50 since I bought them in Jan. 2013. They are built to last a long time.
  • Earcup. Both are prone to cracking (in the case of the M50) or peeling (7506). The M50’s cracking doesn’t have much of an effect other than a cosmetic blemish. The 7506 actually leaves little bits of the material behind in your ear!
  • Flexibility. The M50’s fold and contort in a variety of different ways. While the 7506’s are somewhat flexible in this regard, they simply don’t compare.

Final Word

The 7506 has been a studio staple for years and should have a place in every engineer’s cabinet. Interested?

 

 

Early on, I would almost always recommend the M50 as a bass head’s delight. Nowadays, I believe there are better options out there. While I still enjoy the M50, I think the V-Moda Crossfade M100 is better. It’s got just as much bass thump but comes across as more realistic. Not only that, but It’s comfortable, durable, and has an incredibly detailed and open sound for a closed back. Interested in learning more about them?

CHECK OUT MY OFFICIAL V-MODA CROSSFADE M100 REVIEW!!


Well, that’s about it for today folks! I hope you have enjoyed my review of the Sony MDR 7506 vs Audio Technica ATH M50!

Which model is more valuable to you? Let me know!!

If you have any other further specific questions, please leave them in the box down below or Contact me! I very much look forward to hearing from you!

All the best and God bless,

 

 

-Stu

[Xtr@Ba$eHitZ]

Can’t decide which headphones to purchase? Interested in a complete buyers guide outlining over 40 of the best options on the market? Click on over to the best audiophile headphones to learn more!!

Be sure to also check out my Reviews and Resources page for more helpful and informative articles!

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28 comments

Ryan July 24, 2015 - 3:33 am

Great comparison between the Sony and Audio Technica. I was looking at different headphones for my podcast for monitor headphones while recording and editing. The Sony MDR 7506 like you said seemed to almost be the industry standard as I have seen that model suggested by a few podcasters. Based on your final comparison, confirms my gut feeling for the Audio Technica which I am also looking at a new mic by the same brand. Thanks Stu again for a great comparison.

Reply
Stu July 24, 2015 - 9:44 pm

Hey Ryan!

Glad to be able to help! So you’re going with the Audio Technicas then?

-Stu

Reply
Chris July 24, 2015 - 3:41 am

Hey Stu,
You have a lot of great information here. What a great run down on two great headphones. You have the Audio Technica ATH M50 vs Sony MDR 7506 you say in your comparison they are so close. Do you have a recommendation for headphones in the $20-$30 price range for some one just starting out?
Thanks for sharing
Chris

Reply
Stu July 24, 2015 - 9:37 pm

Hey Chris!

I sure do. Check out the Sennheiser HD 202’s. I own them and really like them! For a beginning enthusiast such as yourself these are the perfect set starting out.. around $23 on amazon. Hope you decide on them!!

Thanks for stopping by!

-Stu

Reply
Adam October 7, 2015 - 9:27 pm

Hi Stu,

I’m thinking about sending my good old Sennheiser hd-25 to retirement and taking a new one. The problem is that I don’t have the cash at the moment to get one fro the price of the HD-25.

Do you think that the Sony HDR 7506 or the Audio Technica ATH M50 could replace the Sennheiser? These are a little cheaper but do you thing the difference is significant?

Thank you for your help!

Kind regards,

Adam

Reply
Stu October 8, 2015 - 1:45 am

Hey man!

I’ve been reading about the HD-25 and it’s marketed as more of a reference type of headphone. I do think the MDR 7506 could replace it, as well as the ATH-M50. The real difference is that the M50 is a bit punchier and bass heavy. It’s not bloated however. I’m not sure if that’s what you are looking for, but it’s a great listening experience nonetheless.

If you are going for more of a flat, honest, and neutral reproduction of sound (meaning no exaggerated highs, lows, etc.) I would definitely check out the Sennheiser HD 280, as well as the Sony MDR V6.

You might feel more immersed in the sound of the 280’s, or really any of the above mentioned. They are all circumaural (meaning the headphones surround the ears), as opposed to the HD 25’s which are supra aural (they rest on the ears).

Also, a big complaint about the HD 25’s is comfort. Any of the models I mentioned would be an immediate upgrade in that department as well.

So to recap:

Audio Technica ATH M50: loud, immersive sound, crisp sparkling highs, tight, punchy low end. For bass heads definitely.] Very comfortable. I have owned a pair for almost 3 years and love ’em.

Sony MDR 7506: The industry standard. If you bought these on a whim you wouldn’t be disappointed in the least. They are everywhere for a reason, and they continue to sell to this day because they are reliable and pretty honest.

Sennheiser HD 280: Great neutral set that doesn’t really exaggerate anything in the mix. They are comfortable, solid, reliable, and durable. The only downside for me is that they can be a bit boring sometimes, because they are so real with you. In fact, they have exposed a few of MY OWN mixes, revealing flaws.

Sony MDR V6: one of the oldest and most reliable models in existence, the fact that these are still even around is a true testament to their longevity and reliability in studio. Similar to the 280’s, they are pretty flat as well.

Hope I answered your question. I really appreciate you stopping by! If you have any other questions let me know..

-Stu

Reply
Cees November 16, 2015 - 5:15 am

Really good article and finally about some different headsets than the always Dr Beats / Bose.

I can see that even I get influenced by the media. I used to have a Sennheiser headset which was great, but I am now using Bose headphones like everyone else.

One thing I was wondering though: Are the prices the same regardless of which colour you choose? It is really surprising to me that I have to pay more for a certain colour. I thought it was the sound that mattered.

Great stuff though!

Reply
Stu November 18, 2015 - 12:41 am

Hey Cees!

The prices DO vary according to which color you choose. I myself am wondering why as well! It’s very interesting. If I had to guess maybe it’s because certain colors are more popular than others? Not so sure about that one. Thank you for the question though!

Hope to hear from you again..

-Stu

Reply
SHRIRAM May 30, 2016 - 7:18 am

Perfect & truly , deeply analyzed advice for those who have great hunger of true, crisp musica.

Reply
Stu May 30, 2016 - 2:36 pm

Thank you Shiriram!

If you ever need anything, don’t hesitate to contact me!!

Blessings

-Stu

Reply
VOR August 25, 2016 - 1:41 am

Reviewers shouldn’t use words like ‘neutral’ or ‘flat’ casually. There’s nothing coincidental about the MDR7506 possibly producing some ear fatigue, and being a bit harsh, and at the same time ‘clear and punchy’. They are NOT as neutral or flat as the AT 50X. To imply the contrary is just WRONG the AT is as close to flat as you will find anywhere in that price range. And for the money they are currently the ONLY choice if what you are after is FLAT. The Sony are great cans, don’t misunderstand. But THEY ARE the ones that are colored, MUCH MORE than the AT. Yes I’ve gone VERY DEEP into this. Critically listening samples, test, plots etc. Yes I am give you the correct word. I own 3 MDR 7506 and one AT 50x. Because I bought the Sony’s years ago and they still sound great and still work ! For professional work in a noisy enviroment, tracking in a live room with other intruments, the Sony’s will come through more clear, because the ARE hyped. So it’s depends on what you want. It’s nice to have both, for sure. And being relatively low cost, maybe you can.

Reply
Stu August 26, 2016 - 2:28 am

Sorry bud, but I’m going to have to disagree. I’ve had the 50x’s for almost 4 years now, and they aren’t neutral at all. The bass is definitely colored, as well as the treble, which leaves you with a recessed mid-range. This is pretty much common knowledge at this point. I also owned the 7506’s for about 2 years. They are an industry standard for mixing/reference, and have been for a long time. So good luck convincing pretty much the entire audiophile community that they aren’t, lol. To say that the 50x’s are more neutral is just flat out (no pun intended) false, I’m sorry.

Also, the 50x’s are not as close to flat in the price range of 150 as you can get. The Sennheiser HD 598 and HD380 are both flatter/more neutral.

Thanks for stopping by!

Reply
Krzysiek August 19, 2018 - 1:09 pm

I agree with you the Sony are much more neutral. The 50x is a lot more colored.

Reply
Stuart Charles Black August 19, 2018 - 10:19 pm

Yes for sure. Are you considering one of these?

Reply
John December 10, 2016 - 9:59 pm

Thanks for the great review. I’ve seen a few bundles on Amazon. One has a FiiO A1 Portable Headphone Amp with Bass Boost and a Slappa HardBody Pro Headphone Case. I could use the case for travel. Any thoughts on the little Amp? Much appreciated!

Reply
Stu December 13, 2016 - 2:41 am

Hey John,

Haven’t heard much about that one, but it doesn’t seem to be getting great reviews on amazon. 3.9/5. I would go for the FiiO E10K if you need a good amp for under $100. Hope that helps, let me know. Thanks for stopping by!
Blessings,
-Stu

Reply
J December 12, 2016 - 2:03 pm

Hi there 🙂 I do agree 7506 are great cans, but personally for mix I would go with AKG K-240 (Studio or Monitor). They’re much more flatter than SONY. Semi-open, but really show mixing defects. I would say they are like NS-10M in a World of Audio Monitoring. It’s true that it is really hard to set the bass freq. in AKG, but the mid and hi range bands are not comparable. When you comparing them “side by side” SONYs sound like ‘disco-baby’. Just my 2 cents. Thank you for really great and honest review.

Reply
Stu December 13, 2016 - 2:38 am

I would actually have to agree. I had the 240’s for awhile and was really impressed with their clarity. They are definitely not the type of cans you’d put on to be blown away, but the mid-range on them is phenomenal. I do however think they’re extremely light, and may be prone to breaking down. The comfort was so so as well. But for mixing yeah you’re absolutely right. If anyone reading this is interested head on over to my AKG K240 Studio headphones review for more info! Thanks for stopping by J. Contact me if you ever need anything.
Blessings,
-Stu

Reply
Prem February 19, 2017 - 9:23 am

Thanks for the article! On another note, I read somewhere that the ATH-M40X is a far more neutral headphone than the ATH-M50X. Would you say that’s true.

Reply
Stu February 21, 2017 - 1:34 am

No problem Prem! Yeah that is true, but the 40x isn’t quite as neutral as a lot of people make it out to be. It’s got a pretty deep bass response, but luckily it’s not bloated or cheap sounding.

Reply
Dave M March 8, 2017 - 9:03 pm

Thank you for the great review!
I picked up the 7506’s recently as I wanted to upgrade from wearing earbuds to a nice set of cans for my commute, travel, etc. While I do record music, I’d say the “studio” aspect was only about 10% of my decision.
So, now that I have ’em, I’m kind of second-guessing my purchase and feeling like the 7506’s might be more of a true-studio set of cans, whereas a pair of Audio Technica or Sennheisers would be better for a walking around/iPod/maybe playing vinyl or some guitar amp at home sort of thing.
Any thoughts on that? I’m wondering if maybe the Audio Technica 40x’s are what I would need. Thanks!

Reply
Stu March 12, 2017 - 7:53 pm

Yeah, I haven’t listened to the 7506’s in quite awhile. I used to own a pair and loved them, but my immature self broke them after a Call of Duty match one day. Lol. I remember being amazed by the sound because they were my first foray into the audiophile land. I don’t know what my perception would be now considering I’ve listened to quite a few different types of cans over the years since then (around 2010).

For you, the Sennheiser HD25 might be a phenomenal option considering it’s very lightweight, portable, and indestructible. The cable is also the perfect length for on the go. I’ve got a pair on now and the sound really hits hard without being bloated or cheap. It’s just extremely clean with emphasis on the mid-range and treble. What I love about them is the bass still slams but doesn’t get in the way of the other frequencies. They kind of stand alone in this regard. Normally headphones with hard hitting bass and sparkly treble miss it in the mids. Not the HD25. The only caveat is that they will tire you out rather quickly, because the sound is so intense. I still think it’s worth it though. For around $150 you can’t go wrong. I also have the 40x’s and by comparison they sound muddier, but by no means are they a muddy set of cans. For just under a benjamin they are also great.

What is your price range like? The HD25 seems to fit in with what you’ve mentioned.

Reply
pj July 5, 2017 - 6:24 am

Your comments are on point about the M50’s and 7506’s. I own both but end up only listening to the 7506’s cause they pass the live sound reality test for my ears. So what are the best cans you have ever heard regardless of price?

Reply
Stu July 5, 2017 - 5:27 pm

Thanks for the love PJ!

Hmm. That’s a toughie.

I’ll try to rank them as best I can.

1) Audeze LCD3/LCD-X
2) HD600
3) HE400i/400S
4) Oppo PM3
5) Sony MDR Z1R
6) Grado GS1000e
7) Audeze Sine

Keep in mind this will change as time wears on and I try new stuff 🙂

Those are the headphones that made me go “Wow.” Keep in mind that’s not in exact order, as my tastes go back and forth 🙂 But it will give you a general idea of what I like.

Thanks much for stopping by and don’t hesitate to Contact me if you ever need help!

-Stu

Reply
Berat November 10, 2017 - 1:00 pm

Best headphones ? Vocal and music mix mastering.

Sony MDR 7506 vs Audio Technica ATH M50 vs senheisser hd25 vs focal spirit professional ??

Reply
Stuart Charles Black November 10, 2017 - 3:07 pm

Out of those I would have to say the MDR 7506 is the best for mixing/mastering and reference. 🙂

Thanks for stopping by!!

Reply
Stuart Charles Black August 19, 2018 - 10:44 pm

I like Rtings but I disagree with a lot of that evaluation however in depth and detailed it might be. Yeah it’s a matter of a like half a point but I still wouldn’t ever recommend the 50x over the 7506 for critical listening purposes. 7506 easily wins out. You’re talking about a V-shaped headphone vs. a fairly balanced one (all things considered). The treble can be problematic on both though, but I think less so on a 7506. They’re ratings tend to be fairly harsh as well. 5.6 and 5.5 for travel/commute for both? Come on. Both are extremely portable and compact, and can be folded up and put into a small carry bag with minimal issue. Sure, the chord on both takes away from this rating somewhat, but not 5 and a half points. I think they got comfort pretty much right.

My opinion has changed somewhat from when this was written as I would easily take the 7506 over an M50x as it works much better for a wider variety of genres and applications. M50x is mostly a bass head can. Let’s just say I know a lot more know about headphones than I did back then, as I didn’t have the experience with nearly as many, nor did I even know much about Amps/DACS etc. I should update this article actually. 😛

I’m not here to bash Rtings as I like them a lot and do use their website from time to time. I even emailed them once because I strongly disagreed with something they said. ? It’s a great website regardless, and like Metal571 always says this hobby is very subjective. Thanks for stopping by!

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