Audio-Technica ATH-M50XSTS ATH-M50XSTS-USB A Review
Audio-Technica's M50xSTS-USB StreamSet bundles studio headphones with a broadcast mic for streamers. It sounds great, but the permanently attached USB cable might make you think twice.
The 30-Second Version
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS-USB StreamSet is a wired, USB broadcast headset for streamers. It delivers the reliable sound of the classic M50x headphones with a capable condenser microphone, all in one plug-and-play package. However, its permanently attached cable and lack of wireless options limit its versatility and long-term durability.
Overview
If you're a streamer or content creator looking for a USB headset that promises studio-quality audio, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS-USB StreamSet is probably on your radar. It's a $274 bundle that takes the legendary M50x studio headphones and bolts on a broadcast-style microphone, aiming to be your all-in-one solution for gaming, recording, and calls. The package includes two sets of earpads for tuning comfort and sound isolation, and it connects via a simple USB cable, making it a plug-and-play option for PC setups.
Performance
Let's talk about the sound first. The 45mm drivers deliver the detailed, flat response the M50x line is famous for, with a wide frequency range of 15-28,000 Hz. In our database, its sound quality scores in the 24th percentile for studio headphones, which means it's competent but not chart-topping. The real story is the microphone. It uses a unidirectional condenser mic, which is a step up from the typical dynamic mics on gaming headsets, aiming for more vocal detail. Our analysis puts its mic performance in the 57th percentile, so it's above average for capturing your voice clearly. Just don't expect world-class noise isolation or ANC here; those features land in the 30th percentile.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Solid, detailed microphone quality for voiceovers and streams. 77th
- Classic M50x driver sound signature is reliable for critical listening. 77th
- Includes two sets of earpads to swap between isolation and breathability.
- Simple USB plug-and-play connectivity, no drivers needed.
- Durable, familiar over-ear build from a trusted audio brand.
Cons
- The non-removable USB cable is a major point of failure (and frustration). 13th
- Comfort scores are middling (37th percentile) for long sessions.
- No wireless option at all; you're tethered to your PC.
- Lacks features like active noise cancellation or a companion app.
- Battery life is non-existent (it's wired), scoring a dismal 7th percentile.
The Word on the Street
Specifications
Full Specifications
Design
| Form Factor | Over-Ear |
Audio
| Driver Type | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS-USB StreamSet Over-Ear Professional Monitor Streaming Headphones, Bundle |
| Codecs | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS-USB StreamSet Over-Ear Professional Monitor Streaming Headphones, Bundle with Desktop Stand | Experience superior sound quality with 45mm drivers, perfect for critical listening sessions. | Enjoy extended comfort during long studio sessions with plush, over-ear professional monitor headphones. | Achieve pristine audio recordings with the integrated unidirectional condenser microphone. | Benefit from excellent noise isolation, ensuring focused monitoring in any environm |
Connectivity
| Wireless | Yes |
| Bluetooth | 2 |
Microphone
| Microphone | Yes |
Value & Pricing
At $274, you're paying a premium for the Audio-Technica name and the integrated broadcast mic. You're essentially buying a wired M50x with a mic permanently attached. For pure sound quality, you could get a standard M50x and a separate USB mic for less money and more flexibility. This bundle's value is entirely in its convenience as a single, tidy package for a streamer's desk.
vs Competition
This isn't really competing with wireless ANC champs like the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Apple AirPods Max. Those are for commuting and travel. The StreamSet's real rivals are other wired USB broadcast headsets. Compared to something like a HyperX QuadCast S bundle, you're getting Audio-Technica's more neutral sound profile versus a gaming-tuned one. Against a dedicated studio setup like a Sennheiser HD 560S and a Focusrite Scarlett Solo interface, the StreamSet is more convenient but less upgradeable. It's a specific tool for a specific job: the streamer who wants 'pro audio' cred in one plug-in box.
| Spec | Audio-Technica ATH-M50XSTS ATH-M50XSTS-USB A | Sony WH-1000XM6 Sony - WH-1000XM6- Best Wireless Noise Cancelling | Apple AirPods Max Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Closed-Back | Sennheiser Momentum Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Noise-Canceling Wireless | Bowers & Wilkins PX7S2 Bowers & Wilkins - Px7 S2 Wireless Active Noise | Bang & Olufsen Beoplay Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Noise-Canceling Wireless |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Driver Type | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS-USB StreamSet Over-Ear Professional Monitor Streaming Headphones, Bundle | Dynamic | Dynamic | Dynamic | Dynamic | Dynamic |
| Driver Size (mm) | - | 30 | 40 | 42 | 40 | 40 |
| Impedance Ohms | - | 48 | 16 | 470 | 33 | 24 |
| Wireless | true | true | true | true | true | true |
| Active Noise Cancellation | - | true | true | true | true | true |
| Open Closed Back | - | Closed | Closed | Closed | Closed | Closed |
| Bluetooth Version | 2.0 | 5.3 | 5.0 | 5.2 | 5.2 | 5.1 |
| Battery Life Hours | - | 30 | 20 | 60 | 30 | 35 |
| Compare | Compare | Compare | Compare | Compare |
| Product | Anc | Mic | Build | Sound | Battery | Comfort | Connectivity | Social Proof |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audio-Technica ATH-M50XSTS ATH-M50XSTS-USB A | 40.4 | 76.8 | 48.1 | 42.1 | 13 | 38.1 | 77.1 | 57 |
| Sony WH-1000XM6 Best Wireless Noise Cancelling Compare | 94.4 | 99.7 | 98.3 | 99.1 | 95.1 | 91.6 | 99.9 | 97.9 |
| Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Closed-Back Compare | 94.4 | 99.1 | 99.8 | 98.2 | 93.6 | 72.9 | 98.7 | 99 |
| Sennheiser Momentum Noise-Canceling Wireless Over-Ear Compare | 99.5 | 99.3 | 48.1 | 99 | 98.3 | 72.9 | 98.5 | 89.3 |
| Bowers & Wilkins PX7S2 Wireless Active Noise Cancelling Over Ear Compare | 94.4 | 92.6 | 99.9 | 93.8 | 94.1 | 67.9 | 93.3 | 94.3 |
| Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Noise-Canceling Wireless Over-Ear Compare | 87.7 | 99.3 | 98.3 | 99.4 | 94.6 | 91.6 | 96.7 | 74.9 |
Common Questions
Q: Is the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS-USB good for gaming?
It's decent for gaming if you prioritize voice chat quality and accurate sound over flashy features. Our data gives it a 21.8/100 for gaming, but it lacks surround sound software and wireless connectivity that many gamers prefer.
Q: Can you use the ATH-M50xSTS-USB with a phone or console?
Only if your device has a USB-A port that can deliver power and data. It's designed primarily for Windows/Mac PCs. You can't use it with a standard 3.5mm jack, and it has no Bluetooth, so compatibility with phones, tablets, or consoles is very limited.
Q: How does the ATH-M50xSTS-USB microphone compare to a Yeti?
The built-in condenser mic is convenient and captures clear voice detail, but a dedicated USB mic like a Blue Yeti will typically offer more control over pickup patterns, gain, and overall recording quality for a similar price.
Q: Are the earpads on the StreamSet replaceable?
Yes, the earpads are replaceable and the bundle includes two sets. However, the main USB cable is not removable or replaceable, which is a major point of criticism from users.
Who Should Skip This
Skip this if you need a headset for commuting, travel, or moving around your house. The wired USB connection and lack of ANC make it terrible for on-the-go use. Also, avoid it if you like to future-proof your gear; the fixed cable means a single break could end the headset's life. In those cases, look at wireless over-ears like the Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus for travel, or a standard M50x with a mod mic for a more repairable studio setup.
Verdict
Should you buy the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS-USB StreamSet? Only if you're a streamer or podcaster who values the convenience of an all-in-one, wired USB solution and you're absolutely married to the M50x sound. The non-removable cable is a deal-breaker for many, as a single snag could brick the whole unit. For everyone else, especially gamers who want wireless freedom or musicians who want to upgrade components separately, there are better and more flexible options out there. This is a niche product that does its niche job fairly well, but with one glaring, unforgivable flaw.