Audio-Technica ATH-M20x

Bought this unit for my home studio setup. Didn't want to spend a lot, because I usually use my speakers, and only need headphones for vocal tracking, and occasional online calls.

The price/performance is hardly beatable. M20X's are cheap and of reasonable quality. No issues with the physical build, and the frequency response is comparable with much more expensive sets.
Also, I use SoundID Reference by Sonarworks to calibrate the sound, so I have no issues with the sound whatsoever.

The plastic is sturdy. This isn't the first pair of M20X's that I've used, and they have not broken while I'm using them.

The noise isolation isn't amazing, and helps more with isolating the sound from inside the headphones bleeding into the mics than the other way around. However, I don't particularly need this unit for high noise isolation.

The headphones are comfy enough for sessions, although they feel a bit stiff on my head. Hopefully I'll break them in.

In conclusion - one of the best options within this price range.

When it comes to studio headphones, Audio-Technica has long been a trusted name among professionals and enthusiasts alike. The ATH-M20x, one of the entry-level models in their renowned M-Series, proves that great sound doesn't have to break the bank. Here’s why these headphones deserve a spotlight and why they’re a fantastic choice for budget-conscious music lovers and audio professionals.

Design and Build

At first glance, the ATH-M20x sports a sleek and minimalist design. With its matte black finish and subtle branding, it has a professional look that belies its affordable price point. The construction, while predominantly plastic, feels sturdy and durable. The earcups are well-padded with soft cushions that provide a comfortable fit, even during extended use. However, the headphones are not foldable, which might be a drawback for those looking for a more portable option.

The lightweight build adds to the comfort factor, making it easy to wear for hours without fatigue. The headband is adjustable and reinforced for extra durability—a feature you don’t always find in budget headphones.

Sound Quality

The ATH-M20x truly shines in its audio performance. Designed with 40mm drivers featuring rare-earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils, these headphones deliver a well-balanced sound profile. The focus here is on clarity and accuracy, which makes them ideal for monitoring, mixing, or casual listening.

Bass: The low-end is present but not overwhelming. It’s tight and controlled, providing enough punch for genres like electronic and hip-hop without overshadowing the mids and highs.

Mids: The midrange is clear and detailed, ensuring vocals and instruments stand out. This makes the ATH-M20x a solid choice for vocal-heavy tracks or podcasts.

Highs: The treble is crisp without being harsh, adding a pleasant sparkle to your audio without causing listener fatigue.

While the soundstage isn’t as expansive as higher-end models, the ATH-M20x still provides good stereo imaging for its price. You’ll be able to pinpoint instruments and sounds with decent precision.

Noise Isolation

One of the standout features of the ATH-M20x is its impressive noise isolation. Thanks to the over-ear design and snug fit, these headphones effectively block out ambient noise, making them a reliable choice for use in noisy environments or home studios.

Cable and Connectivity

The ATH-M20x comes with a non-detachable 3-meter straight cable. While the length is perfect for studio use, it may feel cumbersome for casual listening on the go. The cable terminates in a 3.5mm jack and includes a 6.3mm adapter, making it compatible with a wide range of devices, from audio interfaces to laptops and mobile phones.

Who Are These For?

The Audio-Technica ATH-M20x is an excellent option for:

Beginners in audio production or music mixing who want reliable headphones without a hefty price tag.

Casual listeners who appreciate balanced audio and comfort.

Students and professionals who need affordable yet durable headphones for work or study.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Affordable price with exceptional value.

Clear and balanced sound profile.

Comfortable and lightweight design.

Effective noise isolation.

Durable construction.

Cons:

Non-detachable cable may be inconvenient for some users.

Lacks portability due to the non-foldable design.

Soundstage could be wider for immersive listening.

Conclusion

The Audio-Technica ATH-M20x punches well above its weight in the budget headphone category. With its balanced sound, solid build, and comfortable fit, it’s a versatile choice for anyone looking to dip their toes into professional audio gear. While it may lack some of the premium features of its higher-end siblings, the M20x offers incredible value for its price. Whether you’re mixing tracks, listening to music, or just enjoying a podcast, these headphones won’t disappoint.

For those who prioritize quality without emptying their wallets, the ATH-M20x is a no-brainer. It’s not just a budget-friendly option—it’s a gateway to the world of professional audio.

i have owned the m40x and m50 for years and bought this as a spare, but wow! it sounds much flatter and a lot less artificially "hyped" than its more expensive brethren. a little harsh around the high mids extending to the low treble range (slightly harsh S's), but that's about it. it sounds more neutral overall and a lot better for mixing, in my opinion. i guess its less exciting sound and cheaper make is a little off putting for most people, but it sounds great to me. i can listen for hours on end without fatigue. quite surprised and impressed. tight bass (super deep with sonarworks!), great sound isolation and comfortable to wear (uncomfortable at first but it stretched to accommodate my big head). i definitely recommend these puppies!

When compared to most low-cost headphone offerings, it's great to be able to get something like this from a reputable manufacturer which you know stems from a design made for studio use.

As a cousin of the M50 X variant, these are the cheapest in the range and after reading a few reviews I felt confident enough to buy 2 pairs for when I have musicians tracking in my home studio.

I intend to buy more in the future as its very nice to have all headphones with the same EQ fingerprint so that headphone preamp levels can be set the same and I can EQ the mixes all the same way, knowing that a 5db increase for one person will be the same for all.

An added bonus is that's I can carry these headphones around shoved in my laptop bag for a less critical listening - they're very enjoyable to listen to music on generally and despite a little bit too much warmth are smooth enough to be used for everything except surgical EQ.

They sound a little towards the home hifi end of tone, a little warmer and slightly loudness-character to them, but really smooth and pleasant all the same.

Compared to other studio closed cans for tracking, I really don't know why everybody isn't using these!

So good for the money - but they are nonetheless a plastic headphone and I suspect would survive being trodden on, but who cares, they are cheap to replace.