Audio-Technica ATH-M20x Wired Noise Cancelling Headphones

Last updated: August 7, 2023


These headphones are professional-quality and feature contoured earcups with a tight seal for proper sound isolation. This is especially helpful for individuals who are working in a studio setting, where sound quality is a priority.

Audio-Technica ATH-M20x Wired Noise Cancelling Headphones

We looked at the top Headphones and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Headphones you should buy.

Product Details

Key Takeaway: These professional quality headphones are constructed specifically for studio tracking and mixing.

In our analysis of 141 expert reviews, the Audio-Technica Wired Noise Cancelling Headphones placed 11th when we looked at the top 25 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

The ATH M20x professional monitor headphones are a great introduction to the critically acclaimed M Series line. Modern design and high quality materials combine to deliver a comfortable listening experience, with enhanced audio and effective isolation. An excellent choice for tracking and mixing. More About the M Series Headphones Critically acclaimed M Series professional monitor headphones deliver accurate audio and outstanding comfort, perfect for long sessions in the studio and on the go. Contoured earcups seal tight for excellent sound isolation, with minimal bleed. And the pro grade materials are durable, yet comfortable. Find out why online reviewers, top audio engineers, and cult followers agree, M Series is an unmatched combination of audio and build quality that gets the job done. Hour after hour, year after year. Cutting-edge engineering and robust construction. For Studio Tracking & Mixing: Tuned for enhanced low-frequency performance. Offers Excellent Sound : Isolation Circumaural design contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation in loud environments. Makes the ATH-M20x a popular tracking headphone for multi-station studio sessions.

Our Expert Consultant

Calvin West   
Music and video producer

Calvin West, a music and video producer, recorded his first album at 19 and has been in the music business since. Currently based in Spain, where he has worked with artists and labels around the world providing services in music mixing, mastering and lyric video production.

Expert Reviews


What reviewers liked

Durable, comfortable construction. Rich, crisp sound quality doesn't overdo the bass. Easy to adjust. Helps isolate sounds. Extra long 10-foot cord gives you freedom to move. Designed for use in recording studios.
It comes with a 10-foot hard wired cable, and a snap-on 6.3mm adapter.
- Medium
They have an above-average audio reproduction and a moderately comfortable and stable design.
Contoured earcups seal tight for excellent sound isolation, with minimal bleed.
Professionals with small studios should definitely take a look at this wallet-friendly pair of headphones.
Despite its rugged build, a lot of users found them light-weight and comfortable to wear over long periods of time.
If you aren’t using them for mixing songs professionally and it’s more for a daily/workout/travel purpose, they will suffice — they don’t have a cheap sound that will ruin your listening experience like some other lower-priced headphones in the market.
We believe they provide more than adequate comfort, and they do not pinch or clamp too hard.
The ear pads found on each headphone are designed to foster greater sound isolation for a better concentration of sound in each studio headphone.
One of the most neutral sounding closed backs out there. Great value.

What reviewers didn't like

Some feel the cable is too long and is easy to trip over or get tangled in.
Compared to the M50X and M40X…the M20X sounds a little dull.
- Medium
No audio controls. Poor isolation.
Soundstaging is average.
Some users suggested that they're not great for travel since they lack folding ability and carrying case. In this case, it's preferred to use these in studios or at home.
Another con that may be concerning to you is the lack of interchangeable cable.
They don't fold down or compact at all, and the size adjustments do not click - they just slide. The M20X is light and a bit stiff, and the ear foam is not quite the same as the higher quality M50x.
No detachable cable. Comfort could be better.
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