[sinphase]

i'm looking into buying the ATH M50's, but i want to know of some alternatives before. the cheapest i've seen them for is $159. what are some alternatives that can match the price of them and their sound quality. 
 
also to those who own them, how durable are they and what's the warranty period that audio technica provides? 

 

[Amorgan]

The Shures 750dj i've heard is a good alternative. But some people are concerned with the build quality.

 

[calipilot227]

The M50 seems expensive, but it is a really good value for the money. Trust me, they are well worth the price tag 

 

[sinphase]

any particular reasons? 

 

[JamesMcProgger]

I liked the sony V6 more than the M50, it is also more portable. except by the cord, but that is a problem both cans have.

 

[calipilot227]

Quote:

any particular reasons? 

Great sound, easy to drive, comfortable (just to name a few)
 

 

[Radioking59]

If you are willing to wait, the price of the m50 fluctuates. Within a month, i would guess you will be able to find them for >$120. Assuming you are in the US.

 

[ziocomposite]

If open/non-portable headphones are what you are looking for, the FA-011 is good step  up from the m50 for lower price.  One is being sold in For sale area right now ($120+shipping).  I love my m50 for portable use but the fa-011 is my pair to use at home and love it =).  From GD Audio It's $118 and if you order it new, with shipping to U.S. + %5 discount it is about $138.
 
FA-011 Thread :
http://www.head-fi.org/forum/thread/545368/review-fischer-audio-fa-011-off-the-deep-end

 

[Rawrbington]

if the m50s are 159 then the shure 840s are cheaper atm.  having had both, to my ears the Shures are superior in almost every way except the topheavyness.  similar headbands but the shure has a lot more padding with makes it heavier which makes it fall off your head if you bend over too far.  Sonically the only place the m50 bests the 840 is in quantity of bass.  the shure isn't lacking there, its just not as loose and boomy.  Just my observations and opinions on it.
and if its big boomy bass your looking for then the beyerdynamic dt770 pro can be had for 159$ as well. 

 

[gelocks]

Just had an almost full day with already "burned-in" ATH M50s and... I still prefer my Shure 440s (with 840 pads).
In fact, the owner of the M50s DID NOT want to return my Shures!!!!! LOL
From what I've heard and read, the 840s are a step up from the 440s so I don't doubt they will sound a better than the M50s.
I just found them too "dark", more "bassy"...

 

[bcasey25raptor]

the shure srh series are great alternatives. try the shure srh840 it can sometimes be had cheaper then the m50s. i got mine for $129.99CAN.

 

[prady]

FYI..few days back, i ordered mine from the sound professionals and they are 109$+shipping. That's the best price i found. I hope they are originals.