Audio-Technica releases Zen Buddhism–inspired ATH-M50x ENSO over-ear wired headphones

Audio-Technica has unveiled the ATH-M50x ENSO over-ear wired headphones in celebration of the original M50x model released in 2014. Only 5,000 pairs of the serialized, limited-edition M50x ENSO headphones are available. A subset of 200 randomly-selected purchasers will receive an ENSO accessory case and a Kyoto-dyed furoshiki cloth.

The ATH-M50x ENSO is distinguished by its all-black design that incorporates artistic representations of sound waves and Zen Buddhism as engravings in the headband and earcups. The Enso circle is drawn using an ink brush by practitioners of Japanese Zen to symbolize various aspects of the belief, including the circular flow of life, a mind free from attachment, and enlightenment.

The 45 mm drivers have a frequency response of 15 Hz to 28 kHz. The headphones have a maximum power rating of 1,600 mW at 1 kHz, a sensitivity of 99 dB, and impedance of 38 ohms.

The M50x ENSO weighs 285 g (10 oz.) and comes with a coiled cable and two lengths of straight cables. The detachable cables terminate in 3.5 mm (1/8-in.) plugs, and a 6.3 mm (1/4-in.) adapter is included.

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x ENSO headphones have an MSRP of $199 and are available on Amazon. When these limited-edition headphones run out, readers can still buy the regular ATH-M50x and wireless ATH-M50xBT2 on Amazon.

The company also recently released the limited-edition Hatsune Miku ATH-M50xSTS-USB MIKU headset for live streaming, and Notebookcheck tested the standard model.