Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xEnso

Audio-Technica ATH-M50xEnso

What Reviewers Agree On

• The Enso is a 10th-anniversary special edition built on the unchanged ATH-M50x platform — same 45mm driver, same closed-back design, returning to a classic all-black look with a white circular 'Enso' brushstroke
• Delivers the M50x's signature punchy, detailed, fun sound that made the line famous — engaging for music, content creation and casual gaming
• Fully passive wired headphone: no battery, no Bluetooth and no ANC, so it never needs charging and works with virtually any source
• Comfortable for multi-hour sessions thanks to memory-foam pads, a secure-not-tight clamp and 90-degree swivelling ear cups for one-ear monitoring
• Solid, proven build with detachable cables — a damaged cable can be swapped rather than replacing the whole headphone
• Easy to drive at 38 ohms — reaches full, satisfying volume straight from a phone or laptop with no separate amp required

Deal Breakers

• Nothing about the sound, drivers or build has actually changed from the standard M50x — the Enso is a cosmetic anniversary edition, not an upgrade
• The punchy V-shaped tuning is not perfectly neutral, so it can misrepresent elements for critical mixing and mastering
• The closed-back pads trap heat and the vinyl wrap can feel tight, so ears get warm over long sessions and glasses-wearers may find the clamp uncomfortable
• The bundled drawstring pouch only guards against scrapes — there's no proper protective hard case for travel

Audio-Technica ATH-M50xEnso