Over-Ear Headphones
Sony WH-1000XM5
8.6/10SoundGuys scoreRead our review ›
$239.99at Amazon
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1 / 2Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
Noise Isolation
3.6/ 10
Noise Isolation — measured in the SoundGuys lab.
Key specs
Connection Type
Wired 3.5mmMost commonWired-3.5mm48%Bluetooth44%Wired-usb-c7%Others2%
Wired-3.5mm is the most common — on 48% of the 239 over-ear headphones we've cataloged (of 239).
Weight
240 gBelow average240 g
133 g420 g
below average for over-ear headphones — based on 196 of 239 we've cataloged.
Connectivity
- Connection Type
- Wired 3.5mm
- Headphone Jack
- Yes
Design
- Weight
- 240 g
- Foldable
- Yes
Sound
- Acoustic Design
- Closed-back
- Driver Size
- 40 mm
- Driver Type
- Dynamic driver
- Frequency Response
- 15-24000 Hz
- Frequency Response High Hz
- 24000 Hz
- Frequency Response Low Hz
- 15 Hz
- Impedance
- 35 Ω
- Sensitivity
- 98 dB/mW
Battery
- Battery
- No
Identity
- Model Number
- AUD ATHM40X
Microphone
- Microphone
- No
Release
- Date
- 2014-01-23
- Msrp Usd
- 99 USD
- Year
- 2014
SoundGuys review
Read the full review ›SOUNDGUYS rating
6.7/ 10
Worth a lookLK
Reviewed byLil KatzReviewed January 2025Isolation3.6
Comfort & fit6.9
Connectivity6.5
Design7.5
Portability7.2
Value8.5
The verdict
The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x is an excellent choice for producers and anyone on a budget who prioritizes audio quality over flashy features. For less than $100, it delivers clear monitoring sound, solid durability, and practical accessories that make it a great value.
✓What we like
✓Clear sound quality suitable for monitoring applications
✓Sturdy, durable build quality
✓Versatile frequency response across genres
✓Excellent value for under $100
✓Multiple cables included for different use cases
✓Manageable clamping force for extended wear
✕What could be better
✕Bulky design not ideal for portability
✕Synthetic ear pads retain heat
✕Just okay passive isolation performance
✕Not ideal for glasses wearers
✕Proprietary cable locking mechanism makes replacements expensive
✕Included pouch may not provide adequate protection
Video reviews and comparisons for this product.
Features & Opinions
More from the team ›Commentary and deep dives from the SoundGuys editorial team.
The vinyl revival: Why imperfection still mattersVinyl’s return feels like more than nostalgia. It’s a small act of resistance.
Ansel TanVideo ProducerThis absurd record player reminded me what music is all about.In a sea of sterile innovation, a flawed little record player brought me back to the joy of listening.Ansel TanVideo ProducerThe Audio-Technica Sound Burger is a deliciously impractical nostalgia tripVinyl-to-go that's more conversation than commute-ready.
Adam BirneyManaging EditorI've reviewed headphones for over a decade: Here are 5 things I wish they did differentlyHeadphone companies: help me help you
Christian ThomasEditor-at-large5 ways headphones are going to change in 2027Here's where things are headed.Christian ThomasEditor-at-largeWired vs wireless headphones: Which should you buy?Wired headphones do not automatically sound better.
Tom TriggsContributor
Ansel TanVideo ProducerThis absurd record player reminded me what music is all about.In a sea of sterile innovation, a flawed little record player brought me back to the joy of listening.Ansel TanVideo ProducerThe Audio-Technica Sound Burger is a deliciously impractical nostalgia tripVinyl-to-go that's more conversation than commute-ready.Adam BirneyManaging EditorI've reviewed headphones for over a decade: Here are 5 things I wish they did differentlyHeadphone companies: help me help youChristian ThomasEditor-at-large5 ways headphones are going to change in 2027Here's where things are headed.Christian ThomasEditor-at-largeWired vs wireless headphones: Which should you buy?Wired headphones do not automatically sound better.Tom TriggsContributorMore Over-Ear Headphones
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