I've had these headphones for about 4 years now, I guess. They've served their purpose well. Originally I got them for recording and mixing, but started using them more and more for just listening to my iPod over the SkullCandy in ear monitors I was using (except when I needed the portability of the IEM's). None of the SkullCandy offerings can compete with these.
-The sound quality is excellent, especially after a little burn in (i.e. play time, to loosen up the moving parts). Bass, Mids, Highs...They're all there with good separation.
-Construction quality: Although they feel a little cheap, as you would expect from 50 dollar cans, they have held up quite well overall after 4 years of use, including my kids getting a hold of them a few times.
-The only real issue I've had is the fake leather covering over the foam ear pads has peeled off over time and is now completely gone. That's why I gave them 4 stars. This does not affect sound quality per se, however it has made the dampening from the outside world less effective. Again, mine are 4 years old, so this issue may have been addressed by Audio-Technica by this point (or not, I don't know)
I've upgraded to the ATH-M50's, which are in a completely different class, but I still think the M30's are an excellent choice for the price. If you're looking for a great set of headphones that will allow you to hear your music like you haven't before, without spending 3 figures, these are the cans for you.
Average Rating:

Brand: Audio-Technica
Model: AUD ATHM30
Release Date: 2008-07-23
Product Description:
Audio-Technica ATH-M30 dynamic stereo headphones are the perfect choice for project studio engineers, home recordists and recording musicians. ATH-M30 headphones offer the highest level of sonic accuracy in a design engineered to provide maximum comfort for hours of listening. Their low-profile, closed-back design provides exceptional clarity and superior isolation in high-volume listening situations. Features include: neodymium magnet structure; lightweight, adjustable cushioned headband; gold-plated stereo 1/8-inch (3.5 mm) connector with strain relief and snap-on 1/4-inch (6.3 mm) adapter; ultra-flexible 11-foot cable with single-side exit.
Features:
- Exceptional clarity and sonic accuracy for mixing
- High power handling for tracking sessions
- Circumaural design ensures superior isolation
- 40 mm diameter drivers, neodymium magnets and CCAW voice coils
- Adjustable cushioned headband and lightweight design for maximum comfort
Special Features: Exceptional clarity and sonic accuracy for mixing High power handling for tracking sessions Circumaural design ensures superior isolation 40 mm diameter drivers, neodymium magnets and CCAW voice coils Adjustable cushioned headband and lightweight design for maximum comfort OFC litz wire cables, convenient one-side exit Gold-plated stereo 1/8" (3.5 mm) connector with strain relief and professional screw-on 1/4" (6.
Available at Amazon
List Price: USD 119.00

Customer Reviews

Best Headphones I Ever Owned
I had this headphone for only 3weeks now and it's the best headphones I've used in a long time in terms of comfort, quality and construction. The earpads are large and comfortable for long use, the headband is made of metal with a soft cushion on it which proves to be durable and takes a long time to wear. I also like the fact that it delivers the right amount of bass not too much to be uncomfortable and not too little to keep u amping up the bass on your EQ. I compared it to a set of Beats by Dr Dre Earplugs and this won hands down. I love it so far no complaints.....Also great for mixing recordings

Do not listen to the rewiews these headphones DB are terrible!
I have changed the settings and everything. however, the DB rate is a mess for 50 I was ripped off. overall okay. for a concert pianist not good at all. they say on the reviews "I can hear the kick petals as if my head was next too it" not true. do not buy these. I had 20 dollar headphones nicer then these.

outstanding sound, outstanding value.
decent set of cans for the money. my first real set of head phones in many years. crisp clear sound, comfortable and affordable. i'm quite pleased with my purchase.

Very good, but not the best fit
I have just started using these headphones and two things stand out.
1) The sound quality is far better than my old set (Panasonic RP-HT355). Deeper base and a crisper overall sound that was obvious immediately after swapping.
2) The fit of the ear muffs is not the best. There should be a little more padding so the speakers don't press against my ears. This becomes slightly bothersome after about an hour of wear.
Overall, these are great headphones and I'm glad I have them (got them for Christmas). They are a good value at the current price of .58.