---
product_id: 1232964
title: "ATH-M40x Professional Studio Monitor Headphone, Black, with Cutting Edge Engineering, 90 Degree Swiveling Earcups, Pro-Grade Earpads/Headband, Detachable Cables Included"
brand: "audio-technica"
price: "$238.02"
currency: USD
in_stock: true
reviews_count: 9
category: "Audio Technica"
url: https://www.desertcart.us/products/1232964-ath-m40x-professional-studio-monitor-headphone-black-with-cutting-edge
store_origin: US
region: United States of America
---

# 40mm dynamic drivers for crisp sound 90° swiveling earcups for one-ear monitoring Detachable cables with coiled & straight options ATH-M40x Professional Studio Monitor Headphone, Black, with Cutting Edge Engineering, 90 Degree Swiveling Earcups, Pro-Grade Earpads/Headband, Detachable Cables Included

**Brand:** audio-technica
**Price:** $238.02
**Availability:** ✅ In Stock

## Summary

> 🎶 Hear every detail, own every moment.

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** ATH-M40x Professional Studio Monitor Headphone, Black, with Cutting Edge Engineering, 90 Degree Swiveling Earcups, Pro-Grade Earpads/Headband, Detachable Cables Included by audio-technica
- **How much does it cost?** $238.02 with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.us](https://www.desertcart.us/products/1232964-ath-m40x-professional-studio-monitor-headphone-black-with-cutting-edge)

## Best For

- audio-technica enthusiasts

## Why This Product

- Trusted audio-technica brand quality
- Free international shipping included
- Worldwide delivery with tracking
- 15-day hassle-free returns

## Key Features

- • **Plug & Play Convenience:** Detachable cables with both coiled and straight options provide hassle-free setup and replacement.
- • **Space-Saving Portability:** Foldable design and included protective case make it easy to carry your studio-quality headphones anywhere.
- • **Precision Audio Engineering:** Flat tuning and rare earth magnets deliver studio-accurate sound for pro-grade mixing and monitoring.
- • **Ultimate Comfort & Durability:** Professional-grade earpads and headband materials ensure all-day wearability and long-lasting use.
- • **Versatile Monitoring Flexibility:** 90-degree swiveling earcups enable seamless one-ear monitoring, perfect for DJs and producers on the move.

## Overview

The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x headphones combine cutting-edge 40mm dynamic drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum voice coils to deliver flat, studio-accurate sound. Designed with professional-grade materials, they offer superior comfort and durability, enhanced by 90-degree swiveling earcups for one-ear monitoring. Their foldable build and detachable cables (coiled and straight) make them a versatile, portable choice for audio professionals and enthusiasts seeking precise sound isolation and reliable performance.

## Description

The M-Series ATH-M40x professional monitor headphones are tuned flat for incredibly accurate audio monitoring across an extended frequency range. Your studio experience is enhanced with superior sound isolation and swiveling ear cups for convenient one-ear monitoring. Engineered with pro-grade materials and robust construction, the M40x excels in professional studio tracking and mixing, as well as DJ monitoring. Collapsible for space-saving portability. Detachable cable (includes 1.2 m - 3.0 m coiled cable and 3.0 m straight cable).

Review: Excellent Value and Performance - I was looking for a portable headphone. But didn't want to spend a lot of money either. And they needed to be tough as I was going to put them on my backpack to use them working on the road every day. I found this model hit the $$ range I was looking for and had pretty good reviews around so I gave them a chance. I got them for around $86 in "Like New" condition from desertcart Warehouse Deals. MSRP is actually $139, but they go normally here on desertcart for $99.. so all in all.. a good deal.. they seemed new to me... just the box had some scratches, but nothing I would care about... Now on to my thoughts so far NOTE: These headphones and the Sennheiser HD600 are the only headphones I've had worthy of mentioning. I also don't have any other headphones with me to compare them to in the same price range or any other range. Not even the apple earbuds that came with my iphone5 (don't miss them at all). I also have not had experience listening to a lot of good quality headphones except for my HD600. So as unfair as it is...all my thoughts are in comparison to the HD600s which is still the superior headphone and an awesome value and my point of reference in evaluating the m40x which after all, have surprised me quite a bit! First, they sounded very promising! But they weren't very comfortable. The stock ear pads are a little small for my big ears. They sort of cover all of my ear, but its not as comfortable as my HD600s and their huge pads. So looking around I found the Brainwavz Replacement Memory Foam Earpads here on desertcart as well. These fit perfectly and were free (thank you desertcart gift card!). They didn't affect the sound signature a whole lot really...if anything since I now have a perfect seal, the bass is actually what I think should sound like for those who can achieve a good seal with the original pads... These headphones are tuned flat as per manufacturer's description and there is also this video on YouTube [ http://youtu.be/sj69-mWHV3E ] that compares the different versions of the m##x series of headphones, and indeed, the m40x sound almost identical to the source. So having a neutral headphone was appealing to me, and with the new earpads, I don't notice any frequency range dominating the rest...I think these are still pretty neutral but the pads make them WAY more comfortable....I Recommend them Highly! These headphones are definitely more forward than my HD600, but nothing gross.. I actually kind of like a bit. After a while, I kinda stop thinking about it. They have very good sound staging. They work better in portraying sort of an arc in front of me and I also notice a little better instrument separation too. The HD600 I find is more detailed still, and more natural sounding. Instruments like acoustic guitars and such sound more real/believable, but the m40x work a little better for me in presenting them a little more in front of me than in between me. The angled drivers are definitely making a difference here, because I never noticed this from a set of closed headphones before. They mate very well with the Geek Out 450 USB DAC/Amp (What doesn't?!) I do notice a big volume change when I hook them up after the HD600 but that's expected. Still, they benefit a lot from the power provided by the GO450 vs my iphone 5 or laptop headphone port... also expected... They have awesome sound isolation (especially with the new pads). The effect is very similar to wearing my 3M over the ear earmuffs from work. This is a big plus for me as they are going in my backpack with my GO450 every day for work and I'm always in noisy environments...I also travel a couple of times a year and I can see this kit working for me very well during flight time. All in all, I am very pleased with these headphones and it's an easy recommendation for someone looking for a good headphone without braking the bank! Happy camper here!! Worth every penny! Now back to my music!
Review: Amazing Upgrade for Producers! - I LOVE these headphones! I didn’t realize how bad my old pair was until I upgraded to the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x. The clarity is incredible. I can hear the smallest details in my mixes now. They’re also very comfortable, which is important since I often wear them for a few hours while producing. The swivel earcups and detachable cables are a great bonus, too. If you want accurate sound and long-wear comfort, these are absolutely worth it!

## Features

- Cutting edge engineering and robust construction
- 40 millimeter drivers with rare earth magnets and copper clad aluminum wire voice coils
- Circumaural design contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation in loud environments
- 90 degree swiveling earcups for easy, one ear monitoring
- Professional-grade ear pad and headband material delivers more durability and comfort

## Technical Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| ASIN | B00HVLUR54 |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Audio Driver Size | 40 Millimeters |
| Audio Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. |
| Best Sellers Rank | #3,409 in Electronics ( See Top 100 in Electronics ) #164 in Over-Ear Headphones |
| Cable Feature | Detachable |
| Cable Length | 9.8 Feet |
| Carrying Case Weight | 0.25 Pounds |
| Color Name | Black |
| Color Screen | No |
| Compatible Devices | Studio Equipment, DJ Equipment |
| Computer Memory Type | DIMM |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Connector Type | 3.5mm Jack |
| Control Method | Remote |
| Control Type | Volume Control |
| Customer Package Type | Standard Packaging |
| Customer Reviews | 4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars (16,544) |
| Date First Available | January 24, 2014 |
| Earpiece Shape | circumaural |
| Frequency Response | 24 KHz |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 04961310125424 |
| Hardware Interface | 3.5mm Audio |
| Headphones Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
| Included Components | Audio-Technica Ath-M40X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones, Cable, Coiled Cable, Protective Case, Screw-On Adapter |
| Input Device Interface | Audio jack |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Item Weight | 8.4 ounces |
| Item model number | ATH-M40x |
| Manufacturer | Audio-Technica |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Material Type | Aluminum |
| Model Name | ATH-M40x |
| Noise Control | Sound Isolation |
| Noise Control Features | sound_isolation |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Disc Jazz Usage, Audio Monitoring |
| Sensitivity | 98 dB |
| Size | ATH-M40X |
| Special Feature | Foldable |
| Specific Uses For Product | Professional |
| Style | ATH-M40X |
| Supports Bluetooth Technology | No |
| Units | 1.0 Count |
| Voltage | 240 Volts |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Wireless Communication Technology | no |

## Product Details

- **Brand:** Audio-Technica
- **Color:** Black
- **Ear Placement:** Over Ear
- **Form Factor:** Over Ear
- **Impedance:** 35 Ohms

## Images

![ATH-M40x Professional Studio Monitor Headphone, Black, with Cutting Edge Engineering, 90 Degree Swiveling Earcups, Pro-Grade Earpads/Headband, Detachable Cables Included - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/612QNnTYz0L.jpg)

## Available Options

This product comes in different **Size** options.

## Questions & Answers

**Q: How does this compare to the M50?**
A: It depends on your application.  First, the M50 is now the M50x, which includes improved ear cups as well as three interchangeable cables (short, long, coiled).  The M50's have a bit better isolation than the M40's.  Sonically, the M50's has the flatter response on provides less coloration to the music than the M40.  I.e., the M50 is very, very precise.  You will hear the source faithfully and any coloration and soundstage needs to come from there because these cans, by design, will not provide it.  The M40 is a bit more musical and will be more forgiving with consumer grade gear.

In studio or for technical/critical listening, I'd go with the M50x.  For a live stage or personal listening, I'd seriously consider the M40x.

**Q: I have a big head.  Will the ATH-M40x work for me?**
A: I have an abnormally large head, probably top 5% of the population. The ATH-M40x at maximum extension are a tiny bit snug. It's actually a really good fit. If you have a "big" head, you're fine. If you regularly find you can't wear other brands of headphones, the M40s aren't especially roomy. Try them and be prepared for a return if necessary.

**Q: What about "noise pollution"? Will other people on the bus be able to identify the music i'm hearing, what is the critical volume these hp will out??**
A: As with all things, moderation is appropriate. If you want to throb your head and damage your hearing later in life, then things are different. Normal sound levels, with the ear pads cupped together, you cannot hear music, coming from the head phones, inches away from your ears. While on your head, you will hear the full range of music. Pay attention, you will feel the music, crisp and sharp, highs and lows, with good L/R separation. So unless your head is swiss cheese, even if it was, I think no one will hear anything coming from them, but you. I am speaking from experience, rural Sunday morning bedroom with the window open, light breeze through the trees, birds are content. I guess mating season is over.On the bus, with head splitting music? I think you are safe listening to top secret national defense briefings, in addition to any other music you can think of. That is, the bus is expected to be diesel/gas, in first or second gear, going 25+ MPH, and there are at least 10 people on board keeping to themselves. The headphones have good noise isolation, so your sound levels, depending on environment, will vary. You cannot hold a conversation, as that would be both difficult and rude, while wearing.All that to say NO, you are safe. The notion of critical volume is subjective. Since the object is to not damage hearing, critical volume is beyond the scope anyone should be using them. With that said, at 75% max volume on an iPhone in a relatively quite room, you will be able to identify the music for sure, with the ear pads cupped. Between 60% to 70% volume, you will not comprehend what is being listened too. At 50% you will hear no sound at all. On the bus, I suspect 75% to 90% is safe, while 100% volume could be heard quite clearly by the person sitting next to you. You could share your music with the ear cups opened out flat around you neck, without damaging anything.

**Q: How do these headphones do with classical/acoustic music? Is the sound natural and sufficiently good?**
A: When i first got these headphones I listed to Ludovico Einaudi's CD and it sounded great, then I listed to The Early November acoustic Ep and that sounded amazing.

## Customer Reviews

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent Value and Performance
*by E***. on January 11, 2015*

I was looking for a portable headphone. But didn't want to spend a lot of money either. And they needed to be tough as I was going to put them on my backpack to use them working on the road every day. I found this model hit the $$ range I was looking for and had pretty good reviews around so I gave them a chance. I got them for around $86 in "Like New" condition from Amazon Warehouse Deals. MSRP is actually $139, but they go normally here on Amazon for $99.. so all in all.. a good deal.. they seemed new to me... just the box had some scratches, but nothing I would care about... Now on to my thoughts so far NOTE: These headphones and the Sennheiser HD600 are the only headphones I've had worthy of mentioning. I also don't have any other headphones with me to compare them to in the same price range or any other range. Not even the apple earbuds that came with my iphone5 (don't miss them at all). I also have not had experience listening to a lot of good quality headphones except for my HD600. So as unfair as it is...all my thoughts are in comparison to the HD600s which is still the superior headphone and an awesome value and my point of reference in evaluating the m40x which after all, have surprised me quite a bit! First, they sounded very promising! But they weren't very comfortable. The stock ear pads are a little small for my big ears. They sort of cover all of my ear, but its not as comfortable as my HD600s and their huge pads. So looking around I found the Brainwavz Replacement Memory Foam Earpads here on Amazon as well. These fit perfectly and were free (thank you Amazon gift card!). They didn't affect the sound signature a whole lot really...if anything since I now have a perfect seal, the bass is actually what I think should sound like for those who can achieve a good seal with the original pads... These headphones are tuned flat as per manufacturer's description and there is also this video on YouTube [ http://youtu.be/sj69-mWHV3E ] that compares the different versions of the m##x series of headphones, and indeed, the m40x sound almost identical to the source. So having a neutral headphone was appealing to me, and with the new earpads, I don't notice any frequency range dominating the rest...I think these are still pretty neutral but the pads make them WAY more comfortable....I Recommend them Highly! These headphones are definitely more forward than my HD600, but nothing gross.. I actually kind of like a bit. After a while, I kinda stop thinking about it. They have very good sound staging. They work better in portraying sort of an arc in front of me and I also notice a little better instrument separation too. The HD600 I find is more detailed still, and more natural sounding. Instruments like acoustic guitars and such sound more real/believable, but the m40x work a little better for me in presenting them a little more in front of me than in between me. The angled drivers are definitely making a difference here, because I never noticed this from a set of closed headphones before. They mate very well with the Geek Out 450 USB DAC/Amp (What doesn't?!) I do notice a big volume change when I hook them up after the HD600 but that's expected. Still, they benefit a lot from the power provided by the GO450 vs my iphone 5 or laptop headphone port... also expected... They have awesome sound isolation (especially with the new pads). The effect is very similar to wearing my 3M over the ear earmuffs from work. This is a big plus for me as they are going in my backpack with my GO450 every day for work and I'm always in noisy environments...I also travel a couple of times a year and I can see this kit working for me very well during flight time. All in all, I am very pleased with these headphones and it's an easy recommendation for someone looking for a good headphone without braking the bank! Happy camper here!! Worth every penny! Now back to my music!

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amazing Upgrade for Producers!
*by R***N on November 17, 2025*

I LOVE these headphones! I didn’t realize how bad my old pair was until I upgraded to the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x. The clarity is incredible. I can hear the smallest details in my mixes now. They’re also very comfortable, which is important since I often wear them for a few hours while producing. The swivel earcups and detachable cables are a great bonus, too. If you want accurate sound and long-wear comfort, these are absolutely worth it!

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best Studio Headphones To-Date
*by J***S on September 11, 2016*

Honestly, I'm a little pissed off. Not because these are bad, but because the 40x doesn't get enough credit for being one of the top best studio headphones to date. The majority of the people choose its bigger sister, the M50x, which don't get me wrong, the M50x is also a great studio headphone, heck, just the M series are great sets of studio headphones, but reason saying these dominate the rest really is that these cans will be the closest to neutral quality when monitoring your music. The thing with the M50x is that they added an extra cable and "more color" to their sound by dosing up the treble and bass a little bit. And I'm not just saying this one dominates the rest of its sisters because of its best neutrality, it dominates ALL STUDIO HEADPHONES. Don't believe me? No thanks to SoundSensePro, their YouTube videos can prove it to you. Now of course there might be a few exceptions with some other top-end audiophile headphones that are great for monitoring, but most of them are expensive and they require amps to get the same studio quality, where you could just get these, no amps required for good neutrality, all around $100. These have a nice build quality, nice comfort to the ears, although it could be better in my opinion because it takes some adjustment ever once a while and feels a little tight, otherwise I can listen to these for hours, and surprisingly these have great noise isolation, but I mostly will be talking about the main purpose of why these cans are great, which is the sound you get from them. I have been to several sound boards and monitor music with a variety of different studio headphones (Sony MDR7506, Sennheiser HD 280 Sennheiser HD 650, etc.), and ever since I picked up these headphones I know this is going to be my main source from here on out. Here's the thing with studio headphones: the goal is to make them as neutral as possible (not flat. There is a difference between flat and neutral sound) so you know that you're picking up the same exact audio from its main source. Now because bass is very common nowadays, most studio companies think that in order to get a flatter sound, the more bass you need to take away from it so it doesn't "eat-up" the mids and the highs. This doesn't mean you can't hear the lows, it's still rather noticeable, but the issue is you're not getting an idea of how much bass is being applied to the audio, and you need that. These headphones not only monitor bass (and it's just the right amount of bass to monitor as well. You don't want too much bass or too little), but you get to monitor with a great soundstage performance on the M40x. Now another good headphone I encountered in a recording studio is the old Audio Technica ATH-M40 f/s, which took an hour for me to compare the difference between those and the M40x because they were that close. The only difference I could pick out of them is the M40x is more enhanced with its soundstage and stronger noise isolation, still making these a whole lot better. These are worth every buck if you are looking for best neutral sound. Only thing I would say to be aware of is its portability and durability. It only comes with a handbag if you want to bring it around, the headphones are bigger than they appear, and even though it has great build quality, most of it is made of plastic, so if you are a DJ and want to bring them wherever you go, just don't be surprised if they break. These are more for staying at your home or sitting in a recording studio for listening than going place-to-place constantly. Will keep you guys updated when I start experiencing trouble-issues.

## Frequently Bought Together

- Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Professional Studio Monitor Headphone, Black (AUD ATHM40X)
- Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Guitarists, Vocalists, Podcasters or Producers to record and playback studio quality sound
- Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone, Ideal for Project/Home Studio Applications

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*Product available on Desertcart United States of America*
*Store origin: US*
*Last updated: 2026-02-08*