Are you searching for a gaming headset that truly delivers on audio fidelity without cutting corners? For years, the advice has been clear: separate music headphones combined with a quality microphone often outperform dedicated gaming headsets. What happens, however, when a renowned audio company takes this exact approach? Audio-Technica enters this space with its new ATH-M50xSTS and ATH-M50xSTS-USB models. These units aim to bridge the gap between audiophile-grade listening and integrated microphone convenience.
The M50xSTS line is built upon the very popular Audio-Technica M50x headphones. These headphones are well-respected in the music community. They are used widely, even by our own team members. This foundation suggests a strong starting point for audio performance. The crucial question, though, remains: is the integrated microphone up to par? This article explores the design, features, and performance of these new headsets, helping you determine if they are the ideal solution for your streaming, gaming, and content creation needs.
Understanding the Audio-Technica M50xSTS Models
Two distinct models are available in the Audio-Technica M50xSTS series. There is a USB version, offering immediate plug-and-play functionality. Additionally, a non-USB version is supplied, providing greater connectivity options. This non-USB model includes a 3.5 mm plug, a quarter-inch plug, and an XLR plug. Therefore, it seamlessly integrates with existing audio interfaces. This flexibility is a significant advantage for many streamers and audio professionals.
Standard features across both models are notable. They incorporate 45 mm drivers, ensuring robust sound reproduction. A condenser microphone is included for clear voice capture. A convenient microphone mute function is present. The design is collapsible and portable, enhancing ease of transport. Furthermore, a pair of spare earpads is provided within the box. These additions contribute to a complete package for users.
Connectivity and Cable Considerations
The USB model features a permanently attached cable. This cable includes both USB-A and USB-C adapters. The slender design of these adapters is noted. However, the fixed cable is a regrettable compromise. Standard M50x headphones permit cable replacement, offering extended longevity. This interchangeable cable feature is appreciated by many users. The proprietary connector on the original M50x models is somewhat restrictive, but swappability remains a benefit. With the M50x, three cable types are typically supplied: a short, a long, and a coiled one. The fixed cable on the USB-M50xSTS limits this versatility.
The non-USB version, however, offers more traditional flexibility. Its XLR plug and quarter-inch adapter cater to diverse professional setups. This configuration is ideal for connecting to dedicated audio interfaces like a GoXLR. Separate headphone and microphone cables are plugged into the interface. This setup offers advanced control over audio signals. The simplicity of a single USB connection is traded for expanded audio routing capabilities.
Design, Comfort, and Features
A leatherette headband with minimal padding is observed. Despite this, the headsets remain very light. Ratchet adjustments on the side enable a personalized fit. Out of the box, breathable nylon ear cups are provided. These have a fake leather exterior. Traditionally, M50x headphones come with pleather pads. The original M50x pads are known to get warm quickly. Personal comfort with the M50x series can vary significantly among users. Some individuals wear them comfortably all day, while others find them less suitable for extended periods.
A monitor volume control is conveniently located on the headset. This feature is suspected to control sidetone. Sidetone allows users to hear their own voice through the headphones. The ability to adjust sidetone volume is a welcome addition. Many headsets only offer an on/off toggle. The microphone itself possesses an appealing aesthetic. Its metal grill evokes a classic microphone design. A clear ‘flip to mute’ function is integrated, complete with a distinct click. This provides immediate audible feedback. These design elements enhance the user experience and functionality.
Microphone Quality: A Standout Feature
A critical aspect of any headset is its microphone performance. Test recordings demonstrate the microphone’s exceptional quality. Even without any setup or adjustments in Audacity, the sound reproduction is impressive. Minor tweaks, such as adjusting proximity to the mouth, can further refine the audio. This ease of use makes the Audio-Technica M50xSTS an outstanding choice for streamers. A high-quality microphone is crucial for engaging content creation.
The microphone response is designed for human voice clarity. A compensated graph shows a flat line target, indicating industry-standard accuracy. A roll-off below 100 Hz is present, which is beneficial. This roll-off effectively filters out ambient rumbles and low-frequency noise. Therefore, the microphone delivers a very accurate and trustworthy reproduction of the user’s voice. This level of performance is particularly valuable for professional streaming and podcasting setups.
Audio Performance and Gaming Immersion
In terms of listening audio, the M50xSTS models are identical to the standard Audio-Technica M50x headphones. Opinions on M50x audio quality are widespread. They are generally characterized by a slightly bassy and boomy sound profile. The bass often possesses significant energy, making music enjoyable. However, it may lack some punch and nuance. Treble extension is not the highest, nor are they the most resolving in terms of fine detail. Yet, approximately 95% of audio content sounds excellent through them. For an entry into high-quality headphones, they are a solid recommendation.
As a gaming headset, positional audio and soundstage are deemed adequate. They are not recommended for the most competitive gaming experiences. This is primarily because they are stereo headsets. Virtual surround sound technologies, such as DTS or Dolby Atmos, are not supported. Gaming immersion relies entirely on the game’s sound engine. Better positional audio might be achieved with open-back headphones. However, open-back designs introduce caveats like sound bleed into the environment. The M50xSTS provides decent sound isolation, primarily blocking high-frequency sounds. Mid-range sounds, like human voices, will still be audible, as active noise canceling is absent.
Technical Audio Analysis
Objective measurements provide further insight into the M50xSTS performance. The included ear pads, being of different materials, influence the sound profile. The nylon ear pads result in a bassy signature. A significant bump below 300 Hz is evident against the target curve. This creates a boomier sound rather than a rumbly sub-bass. The mids follow the curve well, and the treble is mellower. Peaks in the high brilliance area are present. However, the upper mids and presence sections are relaxed, contributing to a less detailed perception. This contributes to the perception of a non-fatiguing sound profile.
Conversely, the leather ear pads yield a different frequency response. A considerable reduction in elevated bass is observed. The bass becomes tighter, with a noticeable dip just above 300 Hz in the low mids. This dip is less acoustically prominent than the chart might suggest. Treble response remains largely consistent between pad types. A dip around 5-6 kHz is minor. Overall, the headphone provides a good sound with a unique color. Its relaxed upper end prevents listening fatigue during extended sessions. This makes it suitable for long gaming or streaming periods.
Isolation performance is also analyzed. The isolation chart shows decibel reduction. A zero line represents no reduction. Further negative values indicate greater sound blocking. Both pad types show reduction predominantly in high-frequency ranges. Active noise canceling systems excel in the mid-range, significantly reducing voices and other ambient sounds. The M50xSTS, lacking ANC, does not offer such mid-range isolation. This means that mid-frequency external sounds will still be heard. Its passive isolation is effective for high-frequency distractions, but not complete silence.
Value Proposition and Market Comparison
The standard Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones are priced at $169. The ATH-M50xSTS-USB version comes in at $229. This represents a $60 premium. The non-USB ATH-M50xSTS model is available for $200. This is a $31 premium over the base headphones. Some sacrifices, such as the non-interchangeable cable on the USB version, are noted. The desire for a removable microphone or interchangeable cables across all models is expressed. A solution where both XLR and USB cables were included at the $230 price point would have been ideal, offering greater versatility.
Compared to other high-feature gaming headsets, the M50xSTS offers a different value. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, for example, is available at approximately $224. This alternative offers multi-channel support, spatial audio, and integrated EQ. While its sound quality might not match the M50xSTS, it provides numerous convenience features. For users prioritizing raw audio and microphone quality, the M50xSTS is very competitive. For those seeking extensive features, other options may be considered.
The integrated microphone’s quality adds significant value. Consider the Antlion ModMic, a popular add-on microphone. The ModMic Uni, with a USB adapter, costs around $93. By comparison, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS undercuts this combination by $30 to $40. This makes the M50xSTS a compelling all-in-one solution. The quality of the attached microphone truly justifies the price. It represents a great value for gamers and streamers prioritizing superior audio performance. This makes the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS a highly recommended option.
