When comparing Audio-Technica ATH-M50x vs Zeus Outdoor, the Slant community recommends Audio-Technica ATH-M50x for most people. In the question“What are the best headphones?” Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is ranked 3rd while Zeus Outdoor is ranked 52nd. The most important reason people chose Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is:
The ATH-M50x are great sounding headphones with a sound that may fall in the neutral category, but with very slight boosts to the bass and highs; a slightly V-shaped sound. The bass is full and has a lot of power. The sub bass has a hint of elevation though, which can make the bass sound a bit loose on hip-hop or EDM tracks. The mids are fairly neutral with no elevation. The highs are also slightly elevated, which does not add harshness but instead gives the sound a shimmery and detailed feel. This sound signature of the M50x makes it versatile. It is neutral enough for monitoring use, yet also has just the right qualities to make it a great choice for enjoying music.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Generally neutral sounding but with an added kick to the low end
The ATH-M50x are great sounding headphones with a sound that may fall in the neutral category, but with very slight boosts to the bass and highs; a slightly V-shaped sound. The bass is full and has a lot of power. The sub bass has a hint of elevation though, which can make the bass sound a bit loose on hip-hop or EDM tracks. The mids are fairly neutral with no elevation. The highs are also slightly elevated, which does not add harshness but instead gives the sound a shimmery and detailed feel.
This sound signature of the M50x makes it versatile. It is neutral enough for monitoring use, yet also has just the right qualities to make it a great choice for enjoying music.
Pro Lively sounding bass
The bass of these headphones sound full with a slight boost. This makes the bass quite punchy without drowning the mids or highs.
Pro Good value for your money as these headphones are feature packed for the price
You get a lot from what you pay for with these headphones. Aside from the great sound, they are also well built and come with a lot of accessories.
Pro Stellar build quality
The ATH M50x is made from high quality matte plastics which are quite resistant to damage without being too heavy. The hinges move smoothly and do not have unnecessary creaks.
Pro Detachable cables
Audio-Technica finally updated the M50's built in cable to a detachable cable. The M50x even comes with three cables, a 1.2 m - 3.0 m coiled cable, a 3.0 m straight cable, and a 1.2 m straight cable. None of the cables have in-line controls though.
Pro Good passive isolation
The ear cups and pads are able to keep the sound in and block outside noise. These are suitable for a noisy office as even low volume music is enough to drown out those noisy office mates.
Pro Can collapse to a more compact size
The ear cups can be folded into the headband, reducing its footprint. Combined with the carrying pouch and detachable cables, you can easily chuck these headphones into your bag when going out.
Pro Great for tracking guitar
Pro Great combination of features for runners at a reasonable price
The Zeus Outdoor combines Bluetooth connectivity, water resistance and active noise cancelling with a thumpy sound signature. These are fun to listen to, convenient to use and can resist damage due to moisture at a good price.
Pro No cable hassle as they're wireless
These connect to a sound source via Bluetooth, so only a very short cable connects the two earpieces. This can help improve your mobility and minimize cable-related distractions.
Pro Active noise cancelling minimizes ambient noise
Ambient sound leaking in to your music can be drastically reduced by the active noise cancelling feature. You can better focus on your music, as well as your run/work out.
Pro Won't easily get damaged by liquids
These have an IPX7 rating which makes them water resistant so they can be used while running, even when it's raining. Do take note that submerging these headphones beyond a certain depth will negate their water resistance.
Pro Powerful bass
Bass hits are powerful and forward, which should complement the upbeat and thumping music that most people listen to when working out. Highs and mids are recessed though, so these are best for bass lovers.
Pro Snug and secure fit
Ear hooks are attached to the earpieces which provide extra grip over your ears, so these will not fall off easily. The short connecting cable also minimizes the weight that may pull down on the earpieces .
Pro Comes with a good assortment of accessories
You get a number of silicone ear tips in different sizes, some foam ear tips as well as a carrying case.
Pro Good battery life
These can last up to 8 hours of continuous music playback.
Cons
Con Only passive noise cancellation
If you're looking for a headphone to keep you isolated on long plane rides, the M50x is probably not the right headphone for you. These headphones do not electronically limit exterior noises, it only blocks noise with its physical design.
Con Ear cups may be too small
The ear cups on the M50x are smaller than those on something like the 380HD or the DT 770 Pro. Your ears could end up touching the the inside of the headphones which can be uncomfortable for some.
Con May sound quite muffled for some
The highs are quite recessed to give way to the powerful bass. This results in a sound that has a muffled feel which not everybody may like.