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Add to SafariWhen comparing Audio-Technica ATH-ANC23 vs Sony MDR XB50AP, the Slant community recommends Sony MDR XB50AP for most people. In the question“What are the best earbuds around $50?” Sony MDR XB50AP is ranked 4th while Audio-Technica ATH-ANC23 is ranked 8th. The most important reason people chose Sony MDR XB50AP is:
The low frequencies are what stand out from the sound signature. Bass goes pretty low and with good punch too. Also, the full deep end bass is achieved without muddying up the mids. The mids are smooth and clear, allowing vocals and guitars to be clearly heard. The highs are present, though slightly recessed, giving these headphones an overall warm sound.
Specs
Question Ranking
Pros
Pro Secure
Even though the battery pack is quite heavy, these are able to stay secure - even while exercising.
Pro Long term comfort
These can be worn all day with no discomfort.
Pro Not much tangling
These buds don't tend to tangle like other ones do.
Pro Noise reducing
These reduce environmental noise by 90%
Pro Great low end complemented by clear mids and fairly good highs
The low frequencies are what stand out from the sound signature. Bass goes pretty low and with good punch too. Also, the full deep end bass is achieved without muddying up the mids. The mids are smooth and clear, allowing vocals and guitars to be clearly heard. The highs are present, though slightly recessed, giving these headphones an overall warm sound.
Pro Cable does not tangle easily
The XB50AP's cable is flat and fairly thick, yet flexible. The cable does not tangle easily even when chucked into a bag or pocket.
Pro Light weight and soft ear tips make these comfortable to wear
The XB50AP is fairly lightweight. Combined with the high quality ear tips that are soft and flexible, there is not much pressure in the ear canal, making them great for wearing for straight periods of time.
Pro In line remote allows for convenient smart device control
There is a single button remote control which allows you to answer/end calls as well as pause/play tracks. This minimizes the need for you to pull out your phone or media player to do these functions.
Cons
Con Requires additional battery
The noise cancellation feature requires one AAA battery.
Con High cable microphonics
The cable makes significant noise when it moves, causing interference with the listening experience.
Con Heavy battery box
The bulky inline battery box tends to get in the way. It is located in the center of the wire.
Con Earpieces are quite bulky
The earpieces are quite big and stick out of the ears a bit. It is possible that you will find these to be straining on your ears. Also, these can hurt when you are lying down on your side with these on.
Con Microphonics can be distracting
It produces noise when the cable moves around while you're wearing them or when it rubs against your clothes. This can be quite distracting, especially if you like to focus on your music.
Con Treble can sound recessed
While the bass in these headphones is powerful and full, the treble has taken a bit of a step back. While there is a good level of clarity on the high frequencies, these do not have the airiness and sparkle that more detail oriented headphones have.
