Design & Construction

The Audio-Technica ATH-M40X is the less expensive option to the popular ATH-M50X. The headband and earcups bear the Audio-Technica logo. The headphones has rather thick and snug cushions which is meant for providing a comfortable experience. The headband is very light and will not cause discomfort to those who wear spectacles. On the headband, there is also a thick cushioned headrest which does provide some comfort. The earcups swivel 90° for easy, one-ear monitoring. The exterior of the earcups has a black matte-like finish and the whole headphone is made of plastic. The earcups do also pivot left and right and folds up for easy storage.

 

Sound Quality

The 40mm headphone drivers provide a very neutral experience. It has a clear audio signature that is tuned flat for accurate reproduction of sound. This is much needed especially for producers and DJs to carefully craft and mix their audio so that it will sound as pure as the artist intended. Based on user experience, the noise isolation is good, I could not hear much of my surroundings when there was no music on. Highs, mids and lows are balanced and not emphasized. If you are looking for more bass, treble, instrument or vocal boost in this headphone, I suggest you to look away. This isn't for you.

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Connectivity & Portability

The headphone operates passively via the supplied cables. It is also good to know that all the cable is detachable so you can replace them if you break or lose them. The package includes a 1.2 m - 3.0 m coiled cable, a 6.3 mm (1/4") screw-on adapter and 3.0 m straight cable. The headphones fold flat or fold up to fit in a soft carrying pouch which protects the headphone from scratches.

 

PROS​

• Balanced Sound Signature with Clarity

• Snug & Comfortable

• Variety Of Cables & Adapters

• Light-weight

• Compact Profile For Storage

• Carrying Pouch

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CONS​

• Only One Colour Available

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The Bottom Line

The Audio-Technica ATH-M40X is a ideal monitoring headphone housing thick ear cushions, 40mm balanced drivers and inter-changable cables. It is highly recommended for audio monitoring and DJing. More colours should be made available to fit users of different gender and personalities. Overall, it is a perfect reference headphone that has practically no flaws to be nitpicky about.