Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Review After Using for 5 Years

This time, I am reviewing the popular monitoring headphones ATH-M40x from Audio-Technica, which I have loved and used for five years.

audio technica / ATH-M40x Monitor Headphones

The ATH-M40x is a model that has gained support from many people as a mid-range monitoring headphone. I personally purchased these headphones when I first started music production, and since then, I have used them extensively for nearly 300 music productions and mixing tasks, as well as for everyday music listening and video watching.

In this article, I would like to introduce, as specifically as possible, the points I liked after using them over a long period of five years. I hope this article will be helpful for those who are thinking about purchasing monitor headphones or are interested in the ATH-M40x.

Why the ATH-M40x is Recommended for Beginners

First, to briefly summarize the reasons why these headphones are chosen by many beginners, here are three main points:

Great Value for its price

Despite being priced in the 10,000-yen range and easy to obtain, the sound quality boasts a level comparable to higher-end models.

Excellent durability and ease of use

Foldable design makes it convenient to carry. Additionally, the cable is detachable, so even if it breaks, it can be replaced.

Suitable for both monitoring and listening

While maintaining the accuracy required for monitor headphones, it also has a well-balanced sound suitable for music and video enjoyment.

In my case, although the headband and earpads have aged over these five years, there has never been a cable break or critical failure, so I’ve been able to continue using them with peace of mind.

Good points about these headphones

1. Good Sound Quality

The greatest appeal of the ATH-M40x is definitely its balanced sound quality.
With low-priced monitor headphones, it’s not uncommon for the high frequencies to sound muffled, or conversely, for the bass to feel hollow. However, the M40x has a natural extension in the high range, and the sound of cymbals and acoustic guitars is beautifully reproduced.

What I particularly like about these is the bass expression. Monitor headphones tend to have a flat response, so the bass can sometimes feel weak, but with the M40x, the bass has a decent presence. The contours of the kick and bass lines are easy to grasp, which makes it very useful in rock music production.

The playback frequency range is 15–24,000 Hz. This is more than sufficient for actual work, and you can use it with confidence for music production.

2. High Durability

As evidenced by the fact that there has not been a single breakage in five years of use, the M40x is extremely sturdy.

There were several occasions during production work when I accidentally dropped them on the floor or stepped on the cable with a chair caster, but it never affected their functionality. The hinges on the movable parts are also solid, and even after repeated folding, they are designed to resist becoming loose.

3. Good Value for Price

As monitor headphones, they are in a relatively affordable price range. Even brand new, they can be purchased for under 20,000 yen, and consumable parts such as earpads and cables are also available at relatively low prices.

audio technica / HP-M40x Earpads for ATH-M40x

audio technica / 3.0m Detachable Straight Cable / Black

Because of the low running costs, they are recommended not only for beginners but also as a secondary pair of headphones.

4. Foldable and Compact

The M40x is equipped with a folding mechanism, allowing it to be compactly stored away.

It also comes with a dedicated pouch, making it convenient to carry around.

5. Can Be Used for Everyday Listening

Monitor headphones prioritize accuracy, so they can sometimes feel too flat and unexciting for music enjoyment. However, the M40x is moderately tuned and they provide sound quality that is fully suitable for everyday listening. It can be used comfortably for watching YouTube videos or playing games without any issues.

6. Comfortable Even During Long Use

I used to wear the M40x for about 6 to 8 hours a day while working, and the clamping pressure is just right, making it unlikely for your ears or head to hurt even after long periods. It provides both sound isolation and comfort, which I feel is a major plus for production work.

Comparison with Higher and Lower Models

Many people wonder about how the ATH-M40x compares with the entry-level M20x and the standard M50x. Here's a simple summary:
Prices are as of August 20, 2025.

ATH-M20x

• Lightweight (190g)
• Low price (7,700 yen)
• Cannot be folded
• Non-detachable cable
• Frequency response: 15–20,000Hz (narrower than M40x)
• Bluetooth model available

ATH-M50x

• Heavier (285g)
• Higher price (20,718 yen)
• Frequency response: 15–28,000Hz
• Stronger clamping force (high sound isolation)
• Available in a wide variety of colors
• Bluetooth model available

The M20x is a budget-friendly entry model, and I recommend it for those who want to try monitor headphones for the first time. On the other hand, the M50x is used even in professional settings and is suitable for those who seek higher resolution and greater sound isolation.

The M40x sits somewhere in between and I feel it offers the best balance between performance and price.

Summary

The ATH-M40x is a monitor headphone with excellent balance between price, durability, and sound quality.

I highly recommend it for those who want to start DTM or are looking for a reliable and affordable pair of headphones.

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