Audio-Technica ATH-M50x vs Philips SHP9500

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x and the Philips SHP9500 are both very good headphones for fans of balanced sound profiles, but they have different enclosures, offering different strengths. The closed-back design of the Audio-Technica results in better noise isolation and punchier bass but makes the headphones sound more closed-off. The open-back design of the Philips gives them a much more natural, spacious listening experience, but they leak a lot of sound and lack quite a bit of bass. The Audio-Technica are better in a noise-sensitive environment, like recording or commuting. However, the Philips provide a more open listening experience if you're in a quiet space.