[Acheron717]

I currently use the JVC HAS400B and I like them, but I've had them for a while and am looking for an upgrade. The headphones I'm split between are the ATH-M40x and the ATH-M50. I haven't had a chance to try out the M50s, but I tried out the M40s and I really like them. Is there a large difference between the two? While doing my research, it appears as though the M50s have more bass, but the M40s are easier to drive (which is important for running them ampless through an iPod) and are more neutral. Would either be more fitting for my musical taste? Can anyone recommend either or explain their differences better? Any help would be appreciated!

 

Source: 160 gb iPod Classic

Isolation: Intend to use them with my commute/on the subway

Preferred music: I mostly listen to indie rock, and some pop. A little bit of electronic as well.

Some example songs:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qcRmJwGmm2w - Not Even Jail by Interpol

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vwyh32REroQ - Default by Atoms For Peace

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxsPF4bsDmc - Welcome to Japan by The Strokes

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Ph2g5m5Kes - I Will by Sky Ferreira

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-RllNyZt90 - Jigsaw Falling Into Place - Radiohead

 

Thanks!!

 

[pavinjoseph]

I would definitely say to go for the ATH-M50x. It's a good headphone if you can get it for less than 150 USD. Look for some nice deals and you may find one. The reason - Bass is definitely deeper and tighter as well as SQ. The treble is also good. Sound reproduction is almost perfect and although the treble feels a bit too much for my ears, it is a neutral sounding headphone and if you're an audiophile you will definitely appreciate the near perfect sound reproduction. 
 
I would also recommend a sub 100 USD amp like the FiiO E11K (which I use-retails for 60 USD on Amazon) to pair with the M50x since it'll add a bit more warmth to the neutral headphones and especially increase the quality and amplitude of your signal from a smartphone / iPod and also improve the sound-stage by quite a nice margin.

 

[Acheron717]

I don't want to buy a separate amp. Is the M50x still easily driveable by the iPod?
 
Does the increased bass bleed into the midrange?

 

[pavinjoseph]

  I don't want to buy a separate amp. Is the M50x still easily driveable by the iPod?
 
Does the increased bass bleed into the midrange?

The iTouch / any good smartphone should be fine for driving the M50x, but about the older iPod classics and the like I am honestly not sure. Never used them.
 
I did quite some amount of testing between the ATH-M50x and the Sony MDR-1R before settling in on the MDR-1R about a week ago.
 
One thing I am absolutely certain and can vouch for, is the SQ and accuracy of sound reproduction of the M50x; and no, the bass is tight and the mids are clear but lacks a bit of warmth and are a bit recessed compared to the 1R.
 
Ultimately, I would suggest you to listen to the M50x for at least 1 hour continuously before finally settling on anything.