Audio-Technica ATH-M20x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
Rating
Product Overview
The Audio-Technica ATH-M20x are professional studio monitor headphones designed for tracking and mixing. They feature 40mm drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils, tuned for enhanced low-frequency performance. The circumaural design provides excellent sound isolation in loud environments. These wired headphones offer a comfortable fit and durable build quality, making them suitable for long studio sessions. The cable is 3 meters long with a single-side exit.
Product Specifications
Size & Weight
Features
Reduces ambient noise using microphones and signal processing. Ideal for travel, commuting, or noisy environments where you want to focus on your audio.
The ATH-M20x does not feature active noise cancelling (ANC). This means it relies solely on its physical design to block out external noise, which may not be sufficient in very loud environments. For effective noise reduction, consider headphones with ANC.
Allows external sounds to be heard while wearing headphones. Useful for safety when walking in urban environments, or for having conversations without removing your headphones.
These headphones do not offer a transparency mode. Users will need to remove the headphones to hear their surroundings, which can be inconvenient in situations where awareness of the environment is necessary. This function is not available.
Connects to two devices simultaneously. You can seamlessly switch between listening to music on your laptop and answering a call on your smartphone.
The ATH-M20x does not support multipoint pairing, as it is a wired headphone. It can only be connected to one device at a time. This is a limitation for users who frequently switch between multiple audio sources. This function is not applicable.
Allows users to adjust the sound profile of the headphones to their preferences. Fine-tune bass, treble, and mid-range frequencies to optimize the audio for different music genres or personal tastes.
These headphones do not have customizable EQ settings. The sound profile is fixed and cannot be adjusted to suit individual preferences. Users who prefer to fine-tune their audio may find this limiting. This function is not available.
The audio cable can be disconnected from the headphones. If the cable is damaged, it can be easily replaced without needing to repair or replace the entire unit.
The cable on the ATH-M20x is not detachable. If the cable is damaged, it cannot be easily replaced, potentially requiring repair or replacement of the entire unit. This is a significant drawback in terms of durability and convenience.
The headphones can be folded for compact storage. Makes the headphones easier to transport in a bag or backpack when not in use.
The ATH-M20x does not have a folding design. This makes it less convenient for storage and transport, as it cannot be made more compact. Users who need to carry their headphones frequently may find this inconvenient. This function is not available.
SHOPSTAFF Rating Score
The ATH-M20x are entry-level studio headphones offering good sound quality and build for the price. Lacking wireless capabilities and advanced features like ANC, they are best suited for studio use and budget-conscious consumers. Expected lifespan is moderate with proper care.
Brand & Manufacturer Details
Key Highlights
- Balanced sound signature suitable for studio monitoring
- Durable build quality for the price
- Comfortable for extended listening sessions
Considerations
- Non-detachable cable increases risk of damage
- Lack of wireless connectivity limits portability
- Sound isolation is passive, not active noise cancellation
Recommended For
- Budget-conscious music producers
- Home studio enthusiasts
- Podcasters
- Musicians needing monitoring headphones
Not Recommended For
- Users needing wireless connectivity
- Travelers requiring active noise cancellation
- Audiophiles seeking high-end sound reproduction
- none in particular
Suitable For
- Home studio recording
- Mixing and mastering audio
- Practicing musical instruments
- Podcast recording
Not Suitable For
- Commuting on public transport
- Exercising at the gym
- Listening in very noisy environments
- none in particular
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q.I'm looking for headphones for studio use but I'm on a tight budget. Are these a good choice?
Q.How comfortable are these headphones for long listening sessions?
Q.I need headphones with good sound isolation. How well do these block out external noise?
Q.Are these headphones durable enough for daily use?
Q.I plan to use these headphones outside of a studio environment. Is the long cable going to be an issue?
SHOPSTAFF Rating Ranking
Sony
WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Noise Canceling Overhead Headphones
$198(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-12
Premium noise-canceling headphones with excellent sound quality, long battery life, and smart features.
| Weight | 9 ounces g | Driver Size | 40 mm |
| Frequency Response | 40000 Hz | Impedance | 47 Ω |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | Water Resistance | Not Water Resistant IP |
| Noise Cancelling | Active Noise Cancellation | Microphone | Yes |
| Battery Life | 30 hours | Charging Time | 180 minutes |
Wireless headphones with world-class noise cancellation and Alexa voice control for immersive listening.
| Weight | 236 g | Driver Size | 40 mm |
| Frequency Response | 20-20000 Hz | Impedance | 32 Ω |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.1 | Water Resistance | Not Water Resistant IP |
| Noise Cancelling | Yes | Microphone | Yes |
| Battery Life | 20 hours | Charging Time | 1200 minutes |
Premium noise-canceling headphones with advanced features, exceptional comfort, and high-quality audio.
| Weight | 250 g | Driver Size | - mm |
| Frequency Response | 000 Hz, 4 Hz–40 Hz | Impedance | 48 Ω |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | Water Resistance | Not Water Resistant IP |
| Noise Cancelling | Active Noise Cancellation | Microphone | Yes |
| Battery Life | 30 hours | Charging Time | 3 minutes |
Wireless headphones with active noise cancelling, high-fidelity audio, and comfortable over-ear design.
| Weight | 240 g | Driver Size | 40 mm |
| Frequency Response | 20-20000 Hz | Impedance | - Ω |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.1 | Water Resistance | Not Water Resistant IP |
| Noise Cancelling | Yes | Microphone | Yes |
| Battery Life | 24 hours | Charging Time | 150 minutes |
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 delivers industry-leading audio performance with clarity and advanced noise cancellation.
| Weight | 320 g | Driver Size | - mm |
| Frequency Response | 20 - 20,000 Hz | Impedance | - Ω |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | Water Resistance | - IP |
| Noise Cancelling | Yes | Microphone | Yes |
| Battery Life | 30 hours | Charging Time | 120 minutes |
