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When you search for audio technica vs shure noise cancelling headphone options, you find two distinct studio-focused choices. Both the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x and Shure SRH440 are closed-back, circumaural headphones designed for professional monitoring. They share detachable cables and collapsible designs for portability. The main difference lies in their driver technology and intended acoustic isolation. One uses copper-clad aluminum voice coils for flat response, while the other emphasizes an extended frequency range for accurate home and studio recording.
Driver Technology
40 mm drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils
Enhanced frequency response with extended range
Weight
8.47 ounces
1.55 pounds
Included Accessories
1.2 m – 3.0 m coiled cable and 3.0 m straight cable
Threaded 1/4" Gold-plated adapter, carrying bag, and user guide
Design Feature
90° swiveling earcups for one-ear monitoring
Closed-back, circumaural collapsible design
Primary Use
Studio
Studio, Mixing
Choose the first if
- You need swiveling earcups for one-ear monitoring tasks
- You prefer a lighter weight for extended wear sessions
- You want a straight cable included for immediate use
Choose the second if
- You require a carrying bag for transport
- You need a 1/4" gold-plated adapter for direct connection
- You prioritize an extended frequency response range
Verdict
Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x if you value precise engineering, swiveling cups, and a lighter build for studio monitoring. Select the Shure SRH440 if you need included accessories like a carrying bag and adapter, or prefer a design focused on extended frequency range. Both are solid closed-back options for professional use.
Audio-Technica vs Shure Studio Specs
driver technology
Edge: Audio-Technica Swiveling Over-Ear Studio Headphones
The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x uses 40 mm drivers equipped with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils. This combination is tuned flat to provide accurate sound monitoring across the entire frequency range. The Shure SRH440 also features enhanced frequency response for accurate audio across an extended range. While both aim for studio accuracy, Audio-Technica specifies the exact magnetic and coil materials. Shure focuses on the resulting extended range performance without detailing the internal driver construction in the provided data. Audio-Technica gives you more technical insight into the driver components.
weight and portability
Edge: Audio-Technica Swiveling Over-Ear Studio Headphones
Portability matters for studio engineers who travel between locations. The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x weighs 8.47 ounces. The Shure SRH440 weighs 1.55 pounds, which converts to approximately 24.8 ounces. This makes the Audio-Technica model significantly lighter for carrying in a bag. Both designs are collapsible for space-saving storage. The Audio-Technica model also features 90-degree swiveling earcups for easy one-ear monitoring, adding to its functional design. The Shure model includes a carrying bag, which is a useful accessory for protection. However, the lighter weight of the Audio-Technica headphones reduces fatigue during long sessions.
cable options
Edge: Audio-Technica Swiveling Over-Ear Studio Headphones
Both headphones feature detachable cables, which is essential for professional studio use where cables can wear out. The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x includes a 1.2 m to 3.0 m coiled cable and a 3.0 m straight cable. This provides flexibility for different studio setups. The Shure SRH440 includes a detachable coiled cable. The data does not list a straight cable option for the Shure model. Having both coiled and straight options allows for more versatile connection types in a studio environment. The Audio-Technica package offers more immediate connectivity variety without needing to purchase additional cables separately.
physical dimensions
Edge: Tie
Size affects how the headphones fit in your bag and on your head. The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x measures 10 inches in width, 4.1 inches in height, and 11.4 inches in length. The Shure SRH440 measures 8.5 inches in width, 9.5 inches in height, and 4.5 inches in length. The Shure model is narrower and taller when collapsed, while the Audio-Technica is wider but flatter. These differing dimensions may impact how they fit in specific carrying cases. The Audio-Technica design allows for 90-degree swiveling, which might affect the collapsed profile compared to the Shure's closed-back circumaural design.
studio use focus
Edge: Audio-Technica Swiveling Over-Ear Studio Headphones
Both headphones are designed for professional studio environments. The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x is explicitly described as a professional studio monitor headphone with robust construction. The Shure SRH440 is optimized for home and studio recording and mixing. Both offer sound isolation in loud environments due to their circumaural design. The Audio-Technica model emphasizes cutting-edge engineering and durability. The Shure model emphasizes enhanced frequency response for accurate audio. Both are suitable for critical listening tasks. The Audio-Technica model includes specific professional-grade earpad and headband materials for durability, which may appeal to heavy studio use.
Choose the right studio headphones
Portable studio engineers needing compact gear
Our pick: Audio-Technica Swiveling Over-Ear Studio Headphones
The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x weighs just 8.47 ounces, making it significantly lighter than the Shure SRH440 at 1.55 pounds. Its collapsible design and 90-degree swiveling earcups allow for easy one-ear monitoring and space-saving storage. This weight and form factor suit professionals who transport equipment frequently.
Mixing engineers prioritizing extended frequency range
Our pick: Shure SRH440 Studio Headphones
The Shure SRH440 is optimized for enhanced frequency response across an extended range. This specification ensures accurate audio reproduction for mixing tasks. The closed-back, circumaural design provides sound isolation, while the included threaded 1/4 inch gold-plated adapter offers versatile connectivity for professional studio environments.
Users wanting precise flat tuning accuracy
Our pick: Audio-Technica Swiveling Over-Ear Studio Headphones
The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x features drivers tuned flat for incredibly accurate sound monitoring. This flat response across the entire frequency range helps you hear exactly what is recorded without coloration. The copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils and rare earth magnets support this precision for critical listening sessions.
Audio-Technica Swiveling Over-Ear Studio Headphones
Best for: professional studio monitoring and sound isolation
- Form Factor
- Circumaural
- Features
- Detachable Cable
- Use
- Studio
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 11.4 × 10 × 4.1 inches
- Weight
- 8.47 ounces
The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x are professional studio monitor headphones designed for accurate sound reproduction. They feature 40 mm drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils. The circumaural design provides excellent sound isolation in loud environments. Weighing 8.47 ounces, they include detachable cables for flexibility. This model suits users who need precise audio monitoring and durable construction for studio work.
- 40 mm drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils
- Tuned flat for accurate sound monitoring across the entire frequency range
- Circumaural design contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation
- 90° swiveling earcups for easy one-ear monitoring
- Includes detachable 1.2 m coiled and 3.0 m straight cables
- Heavier at 8.47 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Fixed 40 mm driver size limits potential for larger soundstage expansion
- Weight and bulk may cause fatigue during extended wear sessions
- You need flat frequency response for professional studio monitoring
- You require excellent sound isolation in loud environments
- You prefer detachable cables for easy replacement or customization
- You prioritize lightweight comfort for all-day casual listening
- You need wireless connectivity for mobile use
- You want active noise cancellation for travel
Verdict: Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Studio Headphones deliver precise audio monitoring with robust build quality. They fit studio professionals who value accurate sound reproduction and durable construction over lightweight portability.
Shure SRH440 Studio Headphones
Best for: Studio recording and mixing tasks
- Form Factor
- Closed-back, circumaural
- Features
- Detachable Cable
- Use
- Studio, Mixing
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 4.5 × 8.5 × 9.5 inches
- Weight
- 1.55 pounds
The Shure SRH440 is a closed-back, circumaural headphone designed for home and studio recording. It features an enhanced frequency response for accurate audio across an extended range. The collapsible design and detachable coiled cable aid portability and maintenance. Weighing 1.55 pounds, it includes a threaded 1/4 inch gold-plated adapter. This model suits professionals needing reliable monitoring tools.
- Closed-back circumaural design for isolation
- Enhanced frequency response for accurate audio
- Detachable coiled cable for easy replacement
- Includes 1/4 inch gold-plated adapter
- Heavier at 1.55 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
- Larger folded dimensions of 9.5 by 8.5 by 4.5 inches
- One size fits all without adjustable ear cup sizing
- You need a closed-back design for studio monitoring
- You prefer a detachable cable for longevity
- You require a gold-plated 1/4 inch adapter for direct connection
- You prioritize lightweight comfort for all-day wear
- You need active noise cancellation
- You want a compact design for frequent travel
Verdict: Shure SRH440 Studio Headphones offer accurate sound and durable build for studio use. They fit engineers who value isolation and cable replaceability over portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Audio-Technica Swiveling Over-Ear Studio Headphones | Shure SRH440 Studio Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Circumaural | Closed-back, circumaural |
| Features | Detachable Cable | Detachable Cable |
| Use | Studio | Studio, Mixing |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Dimensions | 11.4 × 10 × 4.1 inches | 4.5 × 8.5 × 9.5 inches |
| Weight | 8.47 ounces | 1.55 pounds |
| Size | ATH-M40X | One Size |
| Model | ATH-M40x | SRH440-E |
Frequently asked questions
Are Audio-Technica and Shure headphones good for noise cancelling?
These models prioritize studio monitoring over active noise cancellation. The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x and Shure SRH440 rely on closed-back, circumaural designs for passive sound isolation. They fit engineers who need accurate sound reproduction and durable construction rather than wireless convenience or electronic noise reduction features.
Which brand offers better build quality for studio use?
Both brands deliver robust construction for professional environments. The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x features a detachable cable and a collapsible design. The Shure SRH440 also includes a detachable cable and is built for mixing tasks. Both options suit professionals who value reliable hardware and precise audio monitoring.
Do these headphones support one-ear monitoring?
The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x supports one-ear monitoring with 90-degree swiveling earcups. This allows you to hear ambient sound while listening to one channel. The Shure SRH440 does not list swiveling capabilities in its specifications. If flexible monitoring is essential, the Audio-Technica design offers more versatility.
How do the weights compare between the two models?
The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x is significantly lighter at 8.47 ounces. The Shure SRH440 weighs 1.55 pounds, which is considerably heavier. If you carry your gear frequently, the Audio-Technica option reduces fatigue. The Shure model provides a solid feel but adds more weight to your transport load.
Are the cables replaceable on these studio headphones?
Yes, both models feature detachable cables. The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x includes a detachable cable for easy maintenance. The Shure SRH440 also offers a detachable cable design. This shared feature ensures you can replace worn connections without discarding the entire headphone unit, extending the product lifespan.
What driver size do these headphones use?
The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x uses 40 mm drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils. This setup is tuned flat for accurate monitoring. The Shure SRH440 also features studio-grade drivers for precise sound. Both aim for accurate reproduction across the frequency range for professional tasks.