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These stunning Audio-Technica limited edition Hi-Fi headphones are glowing on us

Japanese audio specialist Audio-Technica has unveiled a new limited edition of its celebrated ATH-M50xBT2 professional studio over-ear headphones. Sporting a stunning Lantern Glow finish, the new ATH-M50BT2xMO received its unique colour-way from fans around the world who voted for 2021’s exclusive limited-edition design.

The winning hue won almost 40 per cent of the vote. In total, more than 13,000 enthusiasts voted in the poll. The Lantern Glow design follows on from last year’s purple and black ATH-M50xBTPB edition.

The tradition for exclusive limited-edition colourways for the Audio-Technica M50 range stretches back to the 50th Anniversary ATH-M50s/LE model released in 2012.

The winning hue won almost 40 per cent of the vote. In total, more than 13,000 audio fans voted in the poll…

Neatly folded Audio-Technica ATH-M50xMO headphones
Unseen but not unheard: 45mm large-aperture drivers

Derived from the brand’s ATH-M50 and ATH-M50x studio models, the ATH-M50xBT2MO and regular ATH-M50xBT2 wireless over-ear headphones feature a number of enhancements to improve performance and usability, while maintaining the sonic signature that has been the hallmark of the M50 series since 2007.

Inside are proprietary 45mm large-aperture drivers, AK4331 DAC, and a dedicated amplifier designed for extended frequency range, and deep bass response.  

A low-latency mode improves sync between sound and vision, when streaming and gaming. The headphones support multipoint pairing, so two Bluetooth devices can stay connected at once. The ATH-M50BT2xMO are compatible with LDAC and AAC codecs.

For better hands-on, there are physical buttons for tactile control of volume, music, and calls. There’s also support for Amazon Alexa Built-in, Google Assistant and Siri voice assistance. The accompanying A-T Connect app offers deeper levels of control, including that low-latency mode, EQ, L/R volume balance, and voice Assistant preference.

Other niceties for these cans include Pro-grade padded earcups and headband material, and Google Fast Pair. The cans come with a 1.2 m cable for optional wired connection. Battery life is rated up to 50 hours, with 3 hours of juice after a 10-minute rapid charge via USB-C.  

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2MO are available now, priced £189.99.

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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, Home Cinema Choice, Games Radar, Good Housekeeping, Louder Sounds, StereoNet and Boat International. He’s also the editor of professional home cinema website Inside CI. He's on Twitter/X, Tiktok and Instagram as @SteveMay_UK