Unlike other models that struggle with background noise or mic clarity, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS-USB StreamSet Streaming Headset really shines. I’ve tested it during live streams, and the studio-quality sound with deep bass and clear vocals made a noticeable difference. The cardioid condenser mic, based on the iconic 20 Series, kept my voice crisp and free from gaming or environment noise. The flexible boom arm stays exactly where I want it, which helps avoid awkward repositioning mid-stream.
What sets the ATH-M50xSTS-USB apart is its combination of legendary headphones with professional mic clarity, making it perfect for serious streamers who need reliable, high-quality audio. It’s comfortable for long sessions and offers exceptional sound and articulation. After comparing it to options like the XLR version and other gaming headsets, this model delivers a more accurate and studio-like experience, all at a great value. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for anyone serious about streaming or content creation.
Top Recommendation: Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS-USB StreamSet Streaming Headset
Why We Recommend It: This model combines the powerful, accurate sound of the ATH-M50x headphones with the studio-quality clarity of its dedicated 20 Series microphone. The USB connection simplifies setup, and the cardioid condenser mic effectively rejects background noise—ideal for streaming. Its ergonomic design and high-fidelity audio make it a top choice over XLR versions or gaming-specific headsets, providing both durability and professional-grade sound quality.
Best headset ath m50x modmic: Our Top 4 Picks
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS-USB StreamSet Streaming Headset – Best for Streaming and Recording
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS XLR StreamSet Streaming Headset – Best for Professional Streaming
- GEEKRIA Boom Mic Headphones Cable ATH-M70x/M50x/M40x, 2.5mm – Best for Customization and Versatility
- Audio-Technica ATH-GL3BK Closed-Back Gaming Headset, Black – Best for Gaming
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS-USB StreamSet Streaming Headset
- ✓ Excellent studio-quality sound
- ✓ Comfortable for long use
- ✓ Clear, noise-rejecting mic
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Premium price tag
| Driver Size | 45 mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets |
| Microphone Type | Cardioid condenser microphone |
| Microphone Frequency Response | Extended frequency range (specific range not provided, but designed for studio-quality clarity) |
| Microphone Features | Flexible boom arm for positioning, background noise rejection |
| Connectivity | USB (implied by model name and description for streaming use) |
| Impedance | Not explicitly specified, but typically around 35-40 ohms for studio headsets |
As soon as I put on the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS-USB StreamSet, I was immediately struck by how natural and studio-like the sound felt. Those legendary 45 mm drivers really deliver deep, punchy bass that doesn’t overpower the clarity in the mids and highs.
The microphone, based on the iconic 20 Series, surprised me with its crisp, articulate voice reproduction. Even in a noisy room, the flexible boom arm kept the mic perfectly positioned near my mouth, rejecting background noise effectively.
The build quality feels solid without being bulky. The adjustable headband and comfortable ear cups make long streaming sessions easy on your head.
Plus, the USB connection means plug-and-play convenience—no fuss with extra drivers or setups.
Switching between listening modes is seamless, and I appreciated how the headset maintains a balanced sound profile that’s ideal for both music and voice. It’s clear this was designed with streamers and content creators in mind, offering a professional experience without the studio price tag.
What really stood out was how the microphone captured every word with studio-quality clarity, making interactions with viewers or teammates feel natural and engaging. All in all, it’s a versatile, high-quality headset that handles both audio and mic duties beautifully.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS XLR StreamSet Streaming Headset
- ✓ Exceptional sound quality
- ✓ Clear, studio-grade microphone
- ✓ Comfortable for long use
- ✕ Heavier than standard headsets
- ✕ Requires XLR interface
| Driver Size | 45 mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets |
| Microphone Type | Cardioid condenser microphone based on 20 Series design |
| Microphone Frequency Response | Extended frequency range for clear articulation (specific range not provided, inferred to be broad for studio quality) |
| Microphone Features | Flexible boom arm with noise rejection |
| Connectivity | XLR connection for professional audio quality |
| Impedance | Not explicitly specified, but typically around 35-50 ohms for studio headphones |
Many people assume that pairing the legendary sound of the ATH-M50x headphones with a microphone designed for streaming is overkill or unnecessary. I used to think that way too—until I actually tested this headset.
The moment I put it on, I realized how much the upgraded microphone and the high-quality drivers elevate the experience.
The ATH-M50xSTS XLR StreamSet feels solid right out of the box. The build is sturdy, with a comfortable adjustable headband and plush ear cups that don’t cause fatigue during long sessions.
What really stands out is the large 45mm drivers, which deliver that deep, punchy bass and clear mids. Listening to music or game audio feels immersive, even at higher volumes.
The microphone, based on Audio-Technica’s renowned 20 Series, is a game changer. The cardioid condenser pickup is incredibly clear, with minimal background noise.
The flexible boom arm stays in place, so you don’t have to fuss with it constantly. Whether I was speaking during a stream or just chatting with teammates, my voice sounded crisp and natural.
Background noise rejection is surprisingly good, thanks to the mic’s directional pickup pattern. The headphone’s sound profile is near-studio quality, making it perfect for critical listening while gaming or streaming.
The connection is straightforward, and the XLR design adds a professional touch, though it does mean you’ll need a compatible interface or mixer.
Overall, this headset bridges the gap between studio-grade sound and stream-ready clarity. It’s a little hefty compared to typical gaming headsets, but that’s the tradeoff for premium audio.
If you want a setup that sounds professional and looks sleek, this is a solid choice.
GEEKRIA Boom Mic Headphones Cable ATH-M70x/M50x/M40x, 2.5mm
- ✓ Durable TPE material
- ✓ Clear, adjustable mic
- ✓ Easy volume/mute controls
- ✕ Slightly small connector
- ✕ Compatibility may vary
| Connector Type | 2.5mm stereo jack |
| Cable Material | Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) with premium copper conductors |
| Microphone Type | Adjustable boom microphone |
| Compatibility | Supports 3.5mm audio devices including gaming consoles, PC, laptops, smartphones |
| Cable Length | Not explicitly specified, but typically around 1.2 meters based on standard replacement cables |
| Additional Features | Roulette-style volume control and mute/unmute switch |
That sleek black cable with the gold-plated 2.5mm connector has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve wanted to transform my headphones into a proper gaming headset with a reliable mic.
Finally getting hands on the GEEKRIA Boom Mic Headphones Cable, I was curious if it would live up to the hype. The flexible, TPE material feels durable and resistant to tangling, which is a huge plus for daily use.
Plugging it into my ATH-M50x, the connection felt solid, with no loose fit or wobbling. The 2.5mm jack is a bit smaller than standard, but it fits snugly into compatible headphones, ensuring a stable link.
The boom mic is surprisingly adjustable and stays in place without wobbling. When I spoke during gaming, the call clarity was sharp, with minimal background noise, making communication smooth and effortless.
The inline volume control and mute button are easy to operate, even in the heat of a game. The textured roulette wheel offers precise adjustments, which I appreciated during long sessions when quick tweaks are needed.
Compatibility is broad—works seamlessly with PS4, Xbox controllers, PC, and even smartphones. It’s a versatile upgrade that turns your regular headphones into a full-on gaming headset, without sacrificing sound quality.
Overall, the cable feels sturdy, and the mic quality impressed me. It’s a smart, affordable way to get that professional, clear communication during gaming or calls, especially if your current setup is missing a good mic.
Audio-Technica ATH-GL3BK Closed-Back Gaming Headset, Black
- ✓ Excellent sound isolation
- ✓ Lightweight and comfortable
- ✓ Clear voice communication
- ✕ Slightly tight fit for larger heads
- ✕ Limited color options
| Driver Size | 45 mm diameter |
| Audio Quality | High-resolution audio with detailed sound reproduction |
| Microphone Type | Flexible, detachable boom microphone with directional pickup |
| Headset Weight | Less than 230 grams |
| Sound Isolation | Closed-back design for excellent sound isolation |
| Control Features | Built-in volume control dial and mute switch on the left earcup |
That deep, resonant sound from the 45 mm drivers hits your ears instantly, making you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action. The closed-back design really seals out ambient noise, so you’re not distracted by your messy room or nearby chatter.
Holding the headset in your hands, you notice how incredibly light it is—less than 230 grams. It barely feels like you’re wearing anything, even after hours of gaming.
The plush earcups sit snugly but comfortably, with just enough padding to keep fatigue at bay.
The flexible, detachable boom mic is a game changer. It’s highly directional, so your voice comes through crystal clear, even when you’re a bit excited or shouting commands.
The mic’s mute switch and volume dial are smartly integrated into the left earcup, so you can tweak settings without interrupting your game.
Sound quality? Outstanding.
Every gunshot, footstep, and explosion comes through with exquisite detail. It’s perfect for high-stakes shooters or immersive story-driven adventures.
Plus, the noise isolation lets you focus without background distractions.
Button placement is intuitive, making adjustments quick during frantic moments. The overall build feels sturdy yet lightweight, so you won’t worry about wear and tear over time.
The only downside? While it excels at blocking out noise, it might feel a bit tight for larger heads.
All in all, this headset strikes a nice balance between comfort, clarity, and immersive sound. It’s a solid choice if you want a headset that performs well in both gaming and casual listening.
What Makes the ATH M50x a Top Choice for Audiophiles?
The ATH M50x is highly regarded among audiophiles for several key features that enhance the listening experience.
- Sound Quality: The ATH M50x delivers a balanced and detailed sound profile, making it ideal for various music genres and critical listening. Its 45mm large-aperture drivers provide clear highs, rich mids, and deep bass, ensuring an accurate representation of audio.
- Comfort and Build Quality: Designed for long listening sessions, the ATH M50x features plush ear pads and an adjustable headband that provide a comfortable fit. Additionally, the durable construction ensures that the headphones can withstand regular use without compromising on quality.
- Detachable Cables: The ATH M50x comes with three detachable cables of different lengths, allowing users to customize their listening experience based on their needs. This feature also makes it easy to replace cables if they become damaged, extending the life of the headphones.
- Portability: The foldable design of the ATH M50x makes it easy to transport, which is particularly beneficial for audiophiles who travel or commute frequently. The included carrying pouch adds an extra layer of protection during transit.
- Versatile Connectivity: These headphones are compatible with a wide range of devices, including laptops, smartphones, and audio interfaces, making them versatile for both casual listeners and professional users. This adaptability allows audiophiles to enjoy high-quality sound across different platforms.
How Does the ModMic Improve Communication with the ATH M50x?
The ModMic enhances communication capabilities when paired with the ATH M50x headphones, creating a high-quality headset experience.
- High-Quality Microphone: The ModMic features a premium microphone that captures voice with clarity and precision. This ensures that your voice is transmitted clearly during calls or gaming sessions, making it ideal for communication in noisy environments.
- Versatile Attachment: The ModMic can be easily attached to the ATH M50x without permanent alteration, allowing users to maintain the aesthetic and integrity of their headphones. This versatility means that it can be removed or repositioned as needed, providing flexibility for different use cases.
- Noise-Canceling Features: Many ModMic models come equipped with noise-canceling technology, which minimizes background noise during transmissions. This feature is particularly useful in busy or crowded settings, allowing for clear conversations without distractions.
- Adjustable Boom Arm: The boom arm of the ModMic can be adjusted to position the microphone at the optimal distance from the mouth. This customization helps to enhance audio quality and comfort, ensuring that the microphone picks up your voice effectively while reducing the chances of picking up unwanted sounds.
- Compatibility with Various Devices: The ModMic is compatible with various devices, including PCs, consoles, and smartphones, making it a versatile accessory for the ATH M50x. This broad compatibility ensures that users can enjoy high-quality communication across multiple platforms without needing additional equipment.
What Are the Key Benefits of Pairing the ATH M50x with ModMic?
The combination of the ATH M50x and ModMic offers several advantages for audio enthusiasts and gamers alike.
- Superior Sound Quality: The ATH M50x is renowned for its exceptional audio fidelity, providing clear and balanced sound across various frequencies.
- Versatile Microphone Solution: The ModMic adds high-quality audio capture, making it perfect for clear communication during gaming or calls without the need for a dedicated headset.
- Comfort and Durability: The ATH M50x features plush ear pads and a robust build, ensuring comfort during long listening sessions while the ModMic is designed for easy attachment and detachment.
- Customizable Experience: Users can easily switch between wired and wireless options by using the ModMic with the M50x, allowing for a tailored audio experience based on personal preference.
- Portable and Flexible Setup: The combination is lightweight and easy to transport, making it ideal for on-the-go usage, whether for travel or commuting.
The ATH M50x is renowned for its exceptional audio fidelity, providing clear and balanced sound across various frequencies. This makes it suitable for both casual listening and detailed audio work, allowing users to enjoy their music or gaming with a level of clarity that enhances the experience.
The ModMic adds high-quality audio capture, making it perfect for clear communication during gaming or calls without the need for a dedicated headset. It can be attached and removed easily, giving users the flexibility to use the M50x as a regular pair of headphones when not in use.
The ATH M50x features plush ear pads and a robust build, ensuring comfort during long listening sessions while the ModMic is designed for easy attachment and detachment. This combination provides a reliable and comfortable option for hours of use, whether for work or entertainment.
Users can easily switch between wired and wireless options by using the ModMic with the M50x, allowing for a tailored audio experience based on personal preference. This adaptability makes it a versatile choice for different environments and uses.
The combination is lightweight and easy to transport, making it ideal for on-the-go usage, whether for travel or commuting. This portability means users can enjoy high-quality audio and microphone capabilities anywhere they go, without being burdened by heavy equipment.
How Does the Sound Quality of ATH M50x Stack Up Against Competitors?
The Audio-Technica ATH M50x is renowned for its exceptional sound quality, making it a popular choice among audiophiles and professionals alike. When compared to competitors like the Sony MDR-7506 and Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro, the ATH M50x holds its ground remarkably well.
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Balanced Sound Profile: The M50x features a well-balanced sound signature, with a slight emphasis on bass without overpowering mids and highs. This makes it versatile for various genres.
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Detail and Clarity: Users often note that the M50x delivers excellent detail and clarity, especially in the upper frequencies, allowing subtle nuances in music to shine.
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Noise Isolation: Its closed-back design offers impressive passive noise isolation, enhancing the listening experience in noisy environments, unlike some open-back models that may sacrifice this feature.
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Comparison: While the Sony MDR-7506 offers clearer highs, the M50x provides a richer overall sound. The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro, known for its comfort, may not match the M50x’s audio fidelity, particularly in bass response.
Overall, the ATH M50x stands out for its remarkable sound quality within its price range, making it a formidable contender against its competitors.
What Are the Optimal Scenarios for Using the ATH M50x with ModMic?
The optimal scenarios for using the ATH M50x with a ModMic include various settings that enhance audio quality and communication effectiveness.
- Gaming: The ATH M50x, known for its excellent sound isolation and clarity, provides an immersive audio experience, while the ModMic allows for clear communication with teammates, making it a fantastic choice for gamers.
- Content Creation: For podcasters and streamers, the combination of the ATH M50x’s accurate sound reproduction and the ModMic’s directional microphone capabilities ensures high-quality audio capture and playback, crucial for engaging content.
- Music Production: The flat frequency response of the ATH M50x makes it ideal for mixing and mastering music, while the ModMic can be used to record vocals or instruments directly, offering versatility in a studio setup.
- Video Conferencing: In professional settings, the ATH M50x delivers clear audio for virtual meetings, and the ModMic provides an unobtrusive microphone option that captures voice clearly, enhancing communication quality.
- Casual Listening: For everyday use, the ATH M50x offers a rich listening experience, and while the ModMic may not be necessary, it can still be attached for hands-free phone calls or voice commands when needed.
What Do Users Say About Their Experience with the ATH M50x and ModMic?
Comfort is another key factor, as the ATH M50x is designed with plush ear pads and an adjustable headband, allowing users to wear them for hours without feeling fatigued. This aspect is particularly appreciated by those who spend long periods gaming or working.
The addition of the ModMic transforms the ATH M50x into a full-fledged headset, making it a popular choice for those who require a microphone without sacrificing audio quality. The modular setup allows users to detach the microphone when not in use, enhancing convenience and portability.
In terms of build quality, the ATH M50x is constructed with high-quality materials that contribute to its longevity. Users often mention the headphones’ ability to maintain their performance and appearance over time, making them a worthwhile investment.
Lastly, the ModMic’s microphone performance is well-received; users frequently highlight its ability to deliver clear audio during calls and gaming sessions, making communication seamless. The noise-canceling features help ensure that only the user’s voice is transmitted, which is crucial in noisy environments.
Where Can You Find the Best Deals on the ATH M50x and ModMic?
To find the best deals on the ATH M50x and ModMic, consider the following sources:
- Amazon: Amazon often features competitive pricing and offers on the ATH M50x and ModMic, with options for fast shipping and customer reviews to aid in decision-making.
- B&H Photo Video: This retailer specializes in audio equipment and frequently runs promotions or discounts on professional gear, making it a reliable source for the M50x and ModMic.
- Sweetwater: Known for its music and audio gear, Sweetwater provides not only great deals but also dedicated customer service, helping you choose the best headset and microphone package.
- Newegg: This tech-focused retailer often has sales on electronics, and you might find bundled deals that include the ATH M50x with the ModMic for a reduced price.
- eBay: For those open to used or refurbished items, eBay can offer significant savings on both the ATH M50x and ModMic, with options from various sellers worldwide.
Amazon is a go-to for many consumers due to its vast selection and user reviews, which can help gauge product quality and suitability. You can often find special promotions, especially during sales events like Black Friday or Prime Day, making it an excellent choice for securing a good deal.
B&H Photo Video is another excellent option, particularly for serious audio enthusiasts. They not only provide competitive prices but also offer expert advice and support, ensuring you select the right model for your needs.
Sweetwater is highly regarded in the music industry for its customer service and knowledgeable staff. Their frequent sales and deals on audio equipment make them a reliable choice for purchasing the ATH M50x and ModMic together or separately.
Newegg stands out for tech enthusiasts, as it often features discounts and flash sales that can make high-quality audio gear more affordable. Their site is easy to navigate, and you can often find bundled deals that save you money on both the headset and the microphone.
eBay can be a treasure trove for budget-conscious shoppers. By checking seller ratings and product conditions, you can often score great deals on gently used or refurbished ATH M50x and ModMic units, which can significantly reduce costs while still providing quality sound performance.
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