Master & Dynamic MW50+

What’s Included?

In addition to the MW50+ itself, these headphones come with sets of ear cushions (on-ear and over-ear), a soft fabric transport bag with an inner pocket for headphone storage, as well as a cable with a mini jack plug and a USB-C charging cable. Both cables are fabric-sheathed for durability. A velvet-lined leather case is also provided as a handy storage solution for whatever pair of ear pads you’re not using. Virtually all packaging is recyclable, with the manufacturer completely dispensing away with plastic bags.

Design & Manufacturing

Master & Dynamic have made it their mission to manufacturer a solid pair of headphones with the MW50+, utilising robust materials to ensure a long service life. That’s exactly what’s on offer here, with quality aesthetics, impressive materials and a high level of workmanship. These headphones are available in attractive metallic silver, with black or brown leathers, as well as metallic black and leather. Quality leather is used for the exterior of the headband and earpieces, while the inside of the headband cover is trimmed with soft lambskin leather. Stainless steel is used to ensure the longevity of the heavy-duty components. All in all, workmanship is of a high standard, down to the smallest of details.

From a technical point of view, there are two 40mm drivers with beryllium membranes that combine high rigidity with a lighter weight. Drivers made of this material are used in high-end models from other competitors, such as Focal. They enable the headphones to reproduce frequency ranges from 5 Hz to 30 kHz. There’s also the wireless aspect of these headphones to consider. For wireless connectivity, there’s Bluetooth 4.1 and the aptX code, guaranteeing a first-rate sound.

Functions & Handling

For wireless control, the MW50+ provides all typical controls such as on/off, pairing, combined volume and skip control, as well as call acceptance/termination. Two LEDs indicate the pairing status, as well as battery and charge status. The integrated battery should provide 16 hours of operation, with charging taking place via a supplied USB-C cable. This can also be used to update firmware. A microphone array consisting of two omnidirectional mics is also integrated into the main body of the headphones. Pairing and operation are self-explanatory and intuitive, while performing perfectly during testing. And what’s more, M&D equip the MW50+ earpieces with a rotating mechanism, making them incredibly slim and ideal for storing away for transport.

Undoubtedly, one of the most special factors of these headphones is the choice of two pairs of ear cushions. They are held by magnets affixed to the ear cups, with their position decided with the use of two small pins. This makes replacement quick and effortless. Memory foam and sheepskin

leather makes them a very comfortable choice, with breathable soft leather preventing the usual build-up of heat and sweat usually found with similar materials. The size adjustment of the headphones won’t suddenly change on you, even though it isn’t rasterised. The tilting earpieces can also be swivelled thanks to their pivot mechanism, ensuring you’ve a set of headphones that adapt well to respective head shapes. Contact pressure is good and ensure these headphones remain fixed firmly, even when shaking your head and performing typical, everyday movements. This is also enhanced by its weight, with these headphones weighing just 229 grams (without cable), yet still boasting solid and robust materials. The length of the included cable is 1.20 metres, offering excellent flexibility for when you’re out on the go and at the ideal length for tucking away under clothing.

Sound & Applications

Master & Dynamic promote the MW50+ as having a sound that’s “warm” and “full”. From my own experience, I can vouch for these claims. The first thing I noticed was the finely tuned highs. M&D have produced a set of headphones that are clearly capable up to the super high range, while there’s an openness that’s simply outstanding. Its mids are differentiated, with clear vocals that are given the limelight they deserve in busier productions. Rich basses are also standard here, although there’s a somewhat gruff sound character in the lower mids. Nevertheless, the MW50+ can also handle real bass well, going down into the sub-bass range.

The MW50+ is loud and precise. At higher volumes, however, the high frequencies become a little excessive, meaning that having to use the EQ application is required. This is particularly true if you’re using the over-ear cushions. There’s nothing wrong with the dynamic response of the headphones, with the signal being powerful and convincing with a wide stereo impression and a wonderful sense of depth. All in all, the sound of the Master & Dynamic seems anything but linear. The frequency contours are excellent for listening to pop music, with tracks sounding brilliant, wide and full of character. What’s more, the muffling of external noise is top-tier thanks to a tight fit. What I didn’t like as much, however, is the sound isolation to the outside. If you listen to sound with these headphones while you’re on the go, don’t be surprised if you get the odd angry look from those nearby if you’re listening at higher volumes.