That’s a lofty comparison, given how the XM4s effectively swept everything aside.

Shure’s Aonic 50 Gen 2 ANC headphones deliver exceptional build quality in a sleek black design.

Now, the Aonic 50 Gen 2 supports an enormous range of Bluetooth codecs.

shure aonic 50 gen 2 both earcups face down

Image Credit: Gavin Phillips/MakeUseOf

The Aonic 50 Gen 2 supports Sony’s LDAC, along with AAC and SBC.

Then there is also support for Qualcomm’s aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Voice.

But it doesn’t stop there.

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Shure’s Aonic 50 Gen 2 ANC headphones deliver exceptional build quality in a sleek black design. With a battery leap from 20 to 45 hours, they support a wide array of Bluetooth codecs, including Snapdragon Sound. While the headphones sound good out of the box, the ShurePlus PLAY app’s customizable EQ is a welcome addition.

Of course, a wired connection is also an option, using the supplied 3.5mm cable.

Sound Quality and ANC

I’ve enjoyed the Aonic 50 Gen 2.

At other moments, the high-end overwhelms the mid-range, and clarity of voice and instruments is lost.

shure aonic 50 gen 2 on stand earcup view close up

Gavin Phillips / MakeUseOf

The Aonic 50 Gen 2 aren’t reference headphones.

It’s pretty fun for live music, though, that’s for sure.

I’m pleased with the Aonic 50 Gen 2 ANC.

shure aonic 50 gen 2 hinge close up

Gavin Phillips / MakeUseOf

Are the Shure Aonic 50 Gen 2 Worth the Money?

Sennheiser’s Momentum 4 cans are around 60 dollars less and boast excellent ANC.

Shure got many things right with the Aonic 50 Gen 2.

shure aonic 50 gen 2 buttons on earcup close up

Gavin Phillips / MakeUseOf

The build quality is exceptional, and it’s reset the Aonic 50 Gen 2 is built to last.

I really like the Shure Aonic 50 Gen 2.

shure aonic 50 gen 2 inside of both earups

Gavin Phillips / MakeUseOf

shure aonic 50 gen 2 on stand side view

Gavin Phillips / MakeUseOf

shure aonic 50 gen 2 rear of earcup

Gavin Phillips / MakeUseOf

shure aonic 50 gen 2 side view long shot

Gavin Phillips / MakeUseOf

shure aonic 50 gen 2 top down view of rear of earcup

Gavin Phillips / MakeUseOf