Audio Technica ATH M40
The ATH-M40, or ATH-M40fs, from Audio-Technica, mid-level studio-use headphones. Audio-Technica labels them “Precision Studiophones.” It had a retail price of $150 when it first came out, but now most dealers carry them for almost 1/3 of that, ranging from $50 and below. Which is why we decided to create this feature—you might want to consider the M40 as your next purchase, because of the excellent deal.
The M40 was created with a wide and flat frequency response, for studio monitoring and mixing use. Among other features which makes this a “studiophone” are replaceable cables, ear pads, and drivers. It has around 1,600 milliwatts of power handling, which makes it really loud with a high SPL capability. The earpieces rotate which makes it possible to monitor with one ear—kind of like how a DJ holds his headphones.
The ATH-M40fs are closed-back headphones, blocking all unwanted noises—excellent when it comes to cutting tracks in the studio. The drivers are 40 millimeters with Neodymium magnets. It has a sensitivity rating of 100 decibels and an impedance of 60 ohms.
So, even it these were designed for studio use, it doesn’t really do much (except help) for the average portable player user. The cord maybe overkill at 11 feet, but it can be replaced. After all, if you have a collection of headphones already, going the stuidophone route, with its bleakly flat frequency response might be the change you are looking for. They can be used as a benchmark for your existing “colored” phones, and you will hear recordings in a new manner, which can make you very critical of the material because of the flat response.
The ATH-M40fs have had rave reviews from most online stores, below are some samples of such.
These are excellent quality headphones for the price. Someone put a lot of thought and effort into designing these—I always look at the details, and if someone paid attention to those, I know they care about their product.
These headphones are light and comfortable on the head, and about the ears. They can be worn comfortably for extended periods of time without causing a headache. I believe they provide enough isolation, and outside sound dampening, to satisfy most music aficionados.
If you’re looking for very pronounced bass, don’t buy these unless you want to adjust the the bass to your satisfaction on your music source.
All in all I’m very pleased with these headphones, and I would buy them again. The price and the quality make this set of headphones an excellent buy.
Having used many brands and types of headphones over the years in recording studio settings for many years, I was disatisified many times by the performance of many “cans.” These Audio-Technicass fit the bill perfectly for my studio as well as home needs—excellent low-end response (what’s usually lacking), good design, good price. Highly recommended.
I’ve been through a number of headphones over the years and recently broke a pair of Bose headphones that I was never that happy with to begin with. Ever since, I’ve been searching for just the right kind of headphones – flat response, comfortable over long periods of wear, good construction, good isolation, under $100. Check, check, check, check, and check! I’m ecstatic with these headphones. Easily the best I’ve owned.
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