[In-Depth Comparisons!] Thorough Review of Audio-Technica Monitor Headphones: ATH-R30x vs R50x vs R70xa

This time, I’m spotlighting three rapidly rising models from Audio-Technica’s monitor headphone lineup for a detailed comparison, and I will include some of my own impressions on it.

The three models I’ll be comparing are:

• ATH-R30x
• ATH-R50x
• ATH-R70xa

“If there are so many monitor headphones out there, how do I know which one to choose?” “What exactly are the differences between them?” If you have these questions, you’re not alone. I personally use monitor headphones regularly, and in this review, I’ll take a closer look at each model and explore their unique characteristics to help you understand what sets them apart.

First up is the ATH-R30x: "An excellent entry-level model that still delivers solid monitoring."

Let’s begin with the ATH-R series’ introductory model, the ATH-R30x.

To be completely honest, my thought was: “This level of sound quality at this price point is pretty impressive.” If you’re looking to try monitor headphones for the first time but don’t want to spend too much, you should definitely consider this model.

Sound Quality Impression

The overall sound balance is very neutral. No particular frequency range feels emphasized. The low end is tight and controlled, with no excessive boominess, making it easy to accurately shape basslines and kick drums. The mid to high frequencies are clear, allowing for good separation and positioning of vocals and instruments. Considering the price, the resolution is more than adequate. You can catch even subtle nuances in the sound.

One of the standout features for me was how non-fatiguing the sound is. Even after long hours of use, there’s minimal strain on my ears, making it easier to stay focused. This is actually a surprisingly important factor when choosing monitor headphones.

Comfort & Fit

The headphones are extremely lightweight, with clamping force that strikes a good balance that’s not too tight, but not too loose. The ear pads are soft and envelop the ears comfortably, maintaining wearability even during extended sessions. I also found them to be fairly glasses-friendly, which is a nice bonus.

ATH-R30x is Recommended for People Like This!

• Those purchasing monitor headphones for the first time
• Those who want to build a high-quality monitoring setup on a budget
• Beginners in home recording or DTM (desktop music production)
• Those looking for headphones that won’t cause fatigue even after long hours of use

The R30x is truly the perfect entry point model for monitor headphones!

Let’s take a look at the ATH-R50x.

Next up is the ATH-R50x — “The Next Standard Trusted by Professionals.”

This professional-grade monitor headphone focuses on faithful sound reproduction, expressive soundstage, and a naturally clear sound — all of which make it a standout choice for serious audio work.

Sound Impression

Compared to the R30x, the first thing you’ll notice is the wider soundstage and significantly higher resolution. The clarity, especially from the mid to high range, is exceptional. It allows you to hear delicate details like a vocalist’s breath or the resonance of acoustic guitar strings with remarkable precision.

The low end is also more prominent than on the R30x, offering a more powerful feel without becoming boomy, and the bass remains tight and well-defined. Overall, instrument separation is excellent; even in dense mixes, and each sound remains distinct. As expected of a pro-grade model, the R50x excels in precision and transparency.

Wearing Comfort

Just like the R30x, the R50x offers excellent comfort. The ear pads are thick and provide a snug fit around the ears. Its high level of sound isolation effectively blocks out external noise, allowing you to stay focused on your work. The headband is also easy to adjust and conforms well to the shape of your head, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.

Recommended for:

• Those who want to seriously pursue recording or mixing
• Those looking for monitor headphones that meet professional standards
• Those who care deeply about the fine details of sound
• Those looking to step up from the R30x

The R50x truly lives up to expectations as the new standard in monitor headphones, delivering an outstanding sound experience.

And then, there’s the ATH-R70xa, aka the “Ultimate Listening Experience”.

Finally, the top-tier model, the ATH-R70xa. This is the highest-end open-back monitor headphone in the R series. When I first listened to it, I was amazed by its expansive soundstage and natural sound.

Sound Quality Impression

The biggest feature of the R70xa is, of course, its open-back design, which provides an expansive soundstage and overwhelming naturalness. Unlike closed-back headphones, which can feel like the sound is trapped inside your head, the R70xa offers an open, vast soundstage that feels as if you’re listening to speakers in a room.

The separation, resolution, and imaging are outstanding among the three models compared here. You can clearly perceive the exact placement of each instrument. It pairs especially well with acoustic genres like classical and jazz, delivering an immersive experience that feels like being in a concert hall.

The low frequencies are deep and refined without any boominess. The midrange is rich and glossy, with vocals standing out expressively. The high frequencies are very clear, allowing you to hear even the subtle overtones clearly, and the reverberation of the sound is beautifully rendered.

Comfort

Thanks to the lightness unique to open-back headphones and a specially designed headband structure, the ATH-R70xa offers an extremely comfortable fit. There’s no noticeable clamping force, and it feels like the headphones are simply resting on your head. This natural feeling means you can listen for long periods without any stress. Once you experience this level of comfort, it’s easy to get hooked.

Recommended for:

• Those seeking a higher-quality listening environment
• Those who want to fully bring out the details contained in their audio sources
• Those wanting to experience the spacious soundstage unique to open-back headphones
• Those who need precise judgment for final mix checks or mastering
• Those who simply want to enjoy music with the best possible sound quality

In the end, all three models have their own unique characteristics and are excellent headphones.
They’re also popular and available at Sound House! Why not find your favorite pair and check out the sound with your own ears?