If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. The original ATH-M50xBT got full marks when reviewed in HFC 450 and was descended from Audio-Technica’s popular M50x wired headphone. So this second-generation Bluetooth update focuses on bringing its digital features up to date while additionally cutting the price.
The basic design is the same as its predecessor. It’s not the lightest, but the earpieces and adjustable headband are thickly padded and the hinges allow you to rotate the earpieces to find a comfortable position. The headphone is mostly plastic, but seems sturdy enough, and there’s a carrying pouch bundled. The BT2 model has also been updated with a USB-C charging port, so a cable is provided, along with a 3.5mm cable.
There’s no change to the 45mm drivers or their impressive 15Hz28kHz frequency response, but there’s a new Bluetooth chip to handle the wireless audio and a new AK4331 DAC/amp as well. The battery life is improved too, from 40 to 50 hours, and you can use the BT2 in wired mode if the battery runs flat.
Denne historien er fra February 2022-utgaven av Hi-Fi Choice.
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Denne historien er fra February 2022-utgaven av Hi-Fi Choice.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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Old boys network
As the lineups start to emerge for this summer's festivals, Nigel Williamson investigates where the problem lies for the continuing dearth of female headliners
DESTINATION: LEITH
Welcome to a friendly haven of Californian cool in the creative heart of a former Edinburgh port. Simon Berkovitch samples the sunshine on Leith
Core values
Apple’s revamped HomePod smart speaker off ers attractive sound quality, but its Apple-centric focus remains frustrating for Cliff Joseph
Forty something
Creek Audio is celebrating its big four-o with the release of the new 4040 A integrated. Nick Tate lights the candles and listens in
One for all
German high-ender AVM wants to make top all-in-one performers. David Vivian takes a listen to its all-singing integrated amp
Three for all
The 700 Series receives a helping of tech from the flagship 800 models. Ed Selley sees how the smallest speaker fares
All in one
DAP, DAC, amplifier and streaming device, is there anything A&K’s new Acro can’t do? Cliff Joseph finds out
Wooden wonder
Better known for its speakers, ELAC’s range of electronics now has a new flagship turntable. Ed Selley takes it for a spin
System matching
Why finding the perfect synergy between your chosen integrated amplifier and favourite speakers holds the key to maximising your system’s potential
Game on!
At times the hi-fi and gaming industries might seem like they’re worlds apart, but Cliff Joseph reckons they both share a love of high-quality sound