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Master & Dynamic MW50 Plus headphone lets you choose between on-ear and over-ear

With the new MW50 Plus you can swap between small and large ear pads depending on your mood.

David Carnoy Executive Editor / Reviews
Executive Editor David Carnoy has been a leading member of CNET's Reviews team since 2000. He covers the gamut of gadgets and is a notable reviewer of mobile accessories and portable audio products, including headphones and speakers. He's also an e-reader and e-publishing expert as well as the author of the novels Knife Music, The Big Exit and Lucidity. All the titles are available as Kindle, iBooks, Nook e-books and audiobooks.
Expertise Mobile accessories and portable audio, including headphones, earbuds and speakers Credentials
  • Maggie Award for Best Regularly Featured Web Column/Consumer
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David Carnoy
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The MW50W Plus comes in tan or black. 

 Master & Dynamic

On-ear or over-ear? When it comes to headphones, sometimes it's hard to decide. But what if you didn't have to choose?

That's the concept behind Master & Dynamic's new MW50 Plus, a headphone that allows you to switch between on-ear and over-ear pads. While certainly not the first modular headphone, it's a little surprising more headphone companies don't offer swappable ear pads in the box.

Shop for Master and Dynamic MW50 Plus (Black/Silver)

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The MW50 Plus isn't actually a new headphone. It's really just the on-ear MW50 Wireless that includes a set of over-ear ear pads (the ear pads adhere magnetically). The standard MW50 costs $440, but this new Plus version costs $399 (£369, AU$730) and is available for preorder now. 

Master & Dynamic headphones feature a distinct look and very sturdy design with good sound quality (I reviewed the MW60). My only gripes are that they're pretty pricey, and they're on the heavy side. But they do have their fans -- some of whom apparently suggested the company come out with a model that's both on-ear and over-ear.

Here's a look at the headphone's key specs. I'll let you know how these guys sound and fit in their different states as soon as I get my hands on a review sample.

  • 40mm beryllium drivers.
  • Extended Bluetooth range of 100 feet or 33m.
  • Two sets of lambskin-wrapped memory-foam ear pads (they adhere magnetically).
  • 16-hour battery life.
  • USB-C charging for quick charging (cable included).
  • Canvas headphone pouch included.
  • Price: $399 (available for preorder in three color options).