Sony MDR7506
Score: 73/100
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x White
Score: 67/100Rankings
The Sony MDR-7506 is a professional closed-back studio headphone known for its accurate sound reproduction and excellent isolation. Lacking wireless connectivity and on-headset volume controls makes it less versatile for modern mobile use. Best suited for audio engineers and broadcasters who need reliable wired performance.
The Audio-Technica ATH-M20x is a wired over-ear studio monitor with 40 mm drivers, lightweight construction, and solid bass response. It offers no Bluetooth, a fixed non-detachable cable, and can become uncomfortable during extended sessions. Best suited for beginner to intermediate home-studio users seeking affordable monitoring.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
40 mmbest | 40 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 260 gbest | 260.9 g |
63 Ωbest | 47 Ω | |
106 dB SPLbest | 96 dB SPL |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(3) | ||
Frequency Response | 10-20000 | 15-20000 |
Impedance (Ω) | 63 Ω | 47 Ω |
Sensitivity (dB SPL) | 106 dB SPL | 96 dB SPL |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Weight (g) | 260 g | 260.9 g |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (mm) | 246x84x185 mm | 169.8×207.0×82.0 mm mm |
Foldable Design | true | false |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consider the MDR-7506 a studio staple, emphasizing its closed-back architecture for superior isolation, the 40 mm neodymium-driven drivers for accurate bass and dynamics, and its foldable, portable build with a long coiled cable that resists snags. Editors highlight its comfort during long sessions and its ability to deliver ample volume even from low-impedance sources.
Everyday users consistently commend the headphones for their clear stereo imaging, robust noise isolation, and practical foldable design. The long coiled cable and included adapters receive positive remarks for flexibility, while the most common complaint centers on the absence of an on-headset volume control and lack of wireless connectivity.
“extraordinary acoustic isolation”
Professional reviewers praise the M20x for its tight channel matching, low distortion, solid build, and strong bass response, noting excellent value for the price. However, they point out comfort issues after extended wear, a predominantly plastic construction, a fixed non-detachable cable, and occasional high-frequency inconsistencies.
Everyday users commend the headphones for strong bass, effective isolation, lightweight comfort in short sessions, and clear sound without needing an amp, while repeatedly citing ear fatigue after 1-2 hours, the non-removable cable, a plasticky feel, and minor high-frequency quirks as common drawbacks.
