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Audio-Technica upgrades performance of best-selling M-series Bluetooth headphones with 2nd gen model

Audio Technica ATH-M50xBT2 headphones worn by an Asian lady out and about

Japanese personal sound specialist Audio-Technica has launched the ATH-M50xBT2 wireless Bluetooth headphones. Taking design and technology cues from the brand’s premium ATH-M50 studio model, this new iteration of its M-Series wireless over-ears boasts several enhancements to performance and usability, without sacrificing the brand’s classic studio look.

Proprietary 45mm large-aperture drivers promise exceptional clarity and a deep bass response, while EQ adjustment can be found in-app.

The stylish M50xBT2 are compatible with the AAC and LDAC premium wireless audio codecs, while a low-latency mode reduces delay to better keep audio and video in sync for smoother streaming and gaming.

Proprietary 45mm large-aperture drivers promise exceptional clarity and a deep bass response…

A big close-up of Audio Technica ATH-M50xBT2 headphones
Classic over-ear style from these Studio-influenced headphones

First seen in 2007, the original ATH-M50 was to become Audio-Technica’s best-selling product worldwide; this evolved into the M50x, released in 2014. Renowned for their practical design and high-fidelity performance, fans are said to include Mariah Carey, Lady Gaga and Drake.

The new cans have an extended battery life of 50 hours. They also support rapid charging, allowing three hours of playback to be banked with just a 10-minutes rapid charge.

The ATH-M50xBT2 may lack noise cancellation, but promise clearer phone calls and communication thanks to the addition of dual mics and beamforming microphone technology.

Sidetone circuitry allows you to hear your voice in the headphones when making calls on most smartphones, so it should be easier to engage in phone and video conversations. 

Audio Technica ATH-M50xBT2 headphones worn by a young man in a denim jacket
New this season is multipoint Bluetooth pairing

You now no longer have to hunt for a mute option while on calls either: the M50xBT2 mic can be muted with a press of a button. Control of volume/mute, music, and access to the voice assistant (Amazon Alexa Built-in, Google Assistant, Siri) are all possible buttons built into the left earcup. 

The M50xBT2 also support multipoint pairing,  which lets you connect wirelessly to two Bluetooth devices at once. Single tap Google Fast Pair enables you to quickly pair the M50xBT2 headphones with an Android smartphone or other device.  

Also new here is an advanced AK4331 DAC and dedicated internal headphone amp, said to deliver higher-fidelity sound. A 1.2m cable is included for optional wired use, useful during travel. 

Available now, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 sell for £179.99.

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About Steve May

Creator of Home Cinema Choice magazine, and editor of The Luxe Review, Steve muses and reviews for Trusted Reviews, T3, Yahoo UK, Home Cinema Choice, Games Radar, Ideal Home, Louder Sounds, Channel News and Boat International. He’s also the editor of professional home cinema website Inside CI. He's on Twitter and Instagram as @SteveMay_UK

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