There are a few audio solution companies you can’t go wrong with, like Audio-Technica, which is known to deliver balanced sounds. But even for a company like this, Bluetooth headphones pose a challenge because much of the data in an audio file gets killed while transferring over Bluetooth. What about an option that offers audio over Bluetooth but at the same time, there is a 3.5mm headphone jack to offer versatility?
We recently had a chance to lay our hands on ATH-M20X BT, which, as the name suggests, has a Bluetooth component but there is more to this device. The biggest advantage with this particular option is a clear soundstage that cuts across genres. For example, I listen to a fair amount of Western classical music and jazz on the one hand while on the other is pop and heavier sounds. The ATH-M20X BT can tackle Chopin as much as Metallica.
Let’s talk about the sound
There are no bells and whistles on the headphones, which has helped the company bring down cost. The device doesn’t even have fully rotating earcups or carrying case. It obviously suggests that all the focus is on audio, besides which you get excellent battery life.
In way of design, Audio-Technica keeps it quite similar to its other over-the-ear headphones. It’s not too big and the earcups are just about the right size while all the plastic gives way to a lightweight quality
The headband has enough padding while the earcups are packed with memory foam to make the user feel comfortable
On the left earcup are the controls. There is a USB-C port, a 3.5mm port and then three buttons that have multiple functions. The presence of 3.5mm port means you can also use analogue sources. So if the battery runs out or whatever device you’re listening music on doesn’t support Bluetooth, you can go wired. And there is a 3.5mm cable in the box.
On the headband, you get plenty of padding, so even after hours of usage, you don’t feel any weight. It’s perfect for all the video calls. The earcups seem to be memory foam wrapped in some leatherette. And though there is not a whole lot of breathability there, these don’t have a crazy clamping force.
The 40mm driver delivers a massive 5Hz to 32,000Hz frequency response, which is way beyond the usual 20Hz to 20,000 Hz. Overall the sound signature is a blast. Everything is clear but there is a healthy boost to the low ends. Big bass is what you get here, which is something you will feel in almost any of Lizzo’s latest tracks. The mids are kept neutral while highs are bright but not too much. Beyond frequency response, stereo imaging is outstanding.
There is also a low latency mode. So if you are watching YouTube videos or playing games, you can bring the latency down. What I found is that the audio and video line-up well while watching a YouTube video.
Should you get it?
There are microphones and it does a good job. These don’t have smart features or noise cancelling, yet the sound flows like a river. If you compare this with professional models from the company, like the M50X, you won’t be disappointed. Sure, the bass response is slightly lower because the driver is slightly smaller. But there is not cutting corners on comfort as the earcups are light and breathe well. There is consistency in the sound and the soundstage doesn’t come across as too compressed. If it’s depth you are looking for, ATH-M20X BT has a lot to offer and on a budget pricing.
The earcups can’t be made to twist at 90 degree
At a glance
Deivice: Audio-Technica ATH-M20X BT
Price: Rs 13,500
High notes
- Natural soundstage
- There is a 3.5mm port
- 60 hours of battery life
- Comfortable headband and earcups
Muffled note
- The earcups don’t rotate 90 degree