Audio-Technica ATH-M20xBT Headphone Review: Budget studio monitors go wireless at a price- Technology News, Firstpost
The wireless version of the popular budget studio monitor, ATH-M20x delivers a near-neutral audio output, but the inexplicably high price makes it hard to recommend.
Pros: – Almost neutral sound signature- Excellent battery backup- Comfortable to wear- Multipoint support- Can be used as wired headphones with an Aux cable
Cons: – Over-priced in India- No ANC, ingress protection, companion app- No high-end codecs support- Plasticky build, non-foldable design – Poor passive noise isolation
Price: Rs 13,499
Rating: 3.3/5
A large percentage of wearable audio products are understandably targeted at masses, and as a result, cater to their taste in sound. In simpler terms, most headphones offer boosted bass for that extra thump. Then we have some that offer a more balanced sound and features like active noise cancellation (ANC). And lastly, we have studio monitors, which strive to reproduce the sound as is without boosting any frequencies.
Image Credit: Tech2 Ameya Dalvi
Before you jump out of your seat in excitement, here’s a word of caution. Just because your self-proclaimed audiophile friend claims that neutral sound is the best thing on this planet does not necessarily mean you will enjoy it. You do not get prominent bass here as we are generally accustomed to, and some may find the sound a bit too bright for their liking. So first gauge what’s on offer here and then consider spending on it.
Now judging it for what it is, the bass is minimal and yet has a decent punch. As a result, the midrange frequencies get a chance to shine and shine they do. The vocals are crisp and most instrument sounds are distinctly audible with a more than decent separation. The highs have ample sparkle but could have been tempered better. The S sounds tend to sound a little harsh, and you do not have the extra bass here to balance them. The detail in the audio is good but the soundstage is average at best. The volume needs to be pushed up to 80% for normal loudness.
Image Credit: Tech2