When your favorite wired headphones lose their cable, you have two very different paths forward. One is a $5 used Riwbox cable that brings inline mic and control; the other is a $21.99 new Audio-Technica HP-SC built specifically for ATH-M40x and M50x models. Both replace the cord, but they serve different priorities.
Quick verdict
If you want the lowest-priced replacement with a built-in microphone and control, the Riwbox cable is the straightforward choice. If you prefer a brand-new, model-matched cable with a specified 3.9-foot length and 3.5mm connector, the Audio-Technica HP-SC earns its higher price.
Price and condition at a glance
| Product | Price | Condition | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audio Cable Cord with in-line Microphone and Control for Headphones Replacement | USD 5.00 | | Used | In-line microphone and control |
| Audio-Technica HP-SC Replacement Cable for Audio-Technica M-Series Headphones | USD 21.99 | | New | Made for ATH-M40x and ATH-M50x |
Where each cable wins
Choose the Riwbox cable when...
- Your budget is very tight and you still want a cable with an inline mic and control.
- You don't need a specific brand match and are comfortable with a used part.
- The cable will be a spare or a temporary replacement.
Choose the Audio-Technica HP-SC when...
- You own Audio-Technica ATH-M40x or ATH-M50x headphones and want a new replacement.
- You value a listed cable length of 3.9' / 1.2 m and a 1/8" (3.5mm) TRS male connector.
- You'd rather pay more for a new component than take a chance on used.
Product notes
Audio Cable Cord with in-line Microphone and Control for Headphones Replacement
This Riwbox cable is the low-cost route. It includes an in-line microphone and control, and it's priced at USD 5.00. It's in used condition, so the previous owner's wear may be visible. The main reason to choose it is the combination of a very low price and the convenience of a built-in mic and control. The limitation is that it's a used part, so you're accepting a pre-owned cable. If you're after a low-cost spare that still lets you handle calls and playback, this is a practical pick. If you're replacing a broken cord on a pair of headphones you don't use daily, the used condition is less of a concern.
Audio-Technica HP-SC Replacement Cable for Audio-Technica M-Series Headphones
This is the brand-matched option. The Audio-Technica HP-SC is sold as new, with a price of USD 21.99. It's specifically listed for ATH-M40x and ATH-M50x headphones, and it comes with a 1/8" (3.5mm) TRS male connector. The cable length is given as 3.9' / 1.2 m, and the weight is 0.2 lb / 90.7 g. The included 1/4" (6.3mm) adapter makes it easy to connect to devices with a larger jack. The reason to choose this one is the new, model-matched construction with clear specs. The limitation is the higher price compared to the Riwbox cable. If your headphones are daily drivers, the new cable and the adapter may be worth the extra cost.
Final choice by use case
- For a spare or low-cost replacement with inline mic/control: choose the Riwbox cable.
- For a new, model-matched cable for ATH-M40x or ATH-M50x: choose the Audio-Technica HP-SC.
- If you need a specified cable length and connector, the Audio-Technica provides them in its listed specs; if you just want a low-cost cable with mic/control, the Riwbox is the one.
