Home Headphone Comparisons Audio Technica ATH M40x vs. Sennheiser HD 280 Pro

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Updates:

  • 11/1/18.
  • 1/22/21. Article/link cleanup.
  • 6/10/21. Article cleanup.

2,001-word post, approx 5-6 min. read

Let’s start with a quick chart!


Comparison Chart


Preview
Better For Fun
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Professional Studio Monitor Headphone, Black, with Cutting Edge Engineering, 90 Degree Swiveling Earcups, Pro-grade Earpads/Headband, Detachable Cables Included
Better For Reference
Sennheiser Professional HD 280 PRO Over-Ear Monitoring Headphones,Black
Title
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Professional Studio Monitor Headphone, Black, with Cutting Edge Engineering, 90 Degree Swiveling Earcups, Pro-grade Earpads/Headband, Detachable Cables Included
Sennheiser Professional HD 280 PRO Over-Ear Monitoring Headphones,Black
Color
Black
Black
Weight
8.4 Oz. (247g)
7.8 Oz. (221.1g)
Type
Closed Back
Closed Back
Driver Size
40mm
Not Specified
Frequency Response
15Hz - 24kHz
8Hz - 25kHz
Impedance
35 Ohms
64 Ohms
Sensitivity
98dB/mW
102dB/mW
Cable Length
9.8 ft. (Coiled & Straight)
9.8 ft. (Coiled)
Cable Detachable?
Amplification Required?
Prime
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
Price
Price not available
$95.00
Better For Fun
Preview
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Professional Studio Monitor Headphone, Black, with Cutting Edge Engineering, 90 Degree Swiveling Earcups, Pro-grade Earpads/Headband, Detachable Cables Included
Title
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Professional Studio Monitor Headphone, Black, with Cutting Edge Engineering, 90 Degree Swiveling Earcups, Pro-grade Earpads/Headband, Detachable Cables Included
Color
Black
Weight
8.4 Oz. (247g)
Type
Closed Back
Driver Size
40mm
Frequency Response
15Hz - 24kHz
Impedance
35 Ohms
Sensitivity
98dB/mW
Cable Length
9.8 ft. (Coiled & Straight)
Cable Detachable?
Amplification Required?
Prime
Amazon Prime
Price
Price not available
Details
Better For Reference
Preview
Sennheiser Professional HD 280 PRO Over-Ear Monitoring Headphones,Black
Title
Sennheiser Professional HD 280 PRO Over-Ear Monitoring Headphones,Black
Color
Black
Weight
7.8 Oz. (221.1g)
Type
Closed Back
Driver Size
Not Specified
Frequency Response
8Hz - 25kHz
Impedance
64 Ohms
Sensitivity
102dB/mW
Cable Length
9.8 ft. (Coiled)
Cable Detachable?
Amplification Required?
Prime
Amazon Prime
Price
$95.00
Details

Greetings friend and Welcome!!

Before we dive right into the Audio Technica ATH M40x vs. Sennheiser HD 280 Pro, grab a snack, sit back and relax because..

You’ve come to the right place!!

What I will bring you in this review

Today I will outline the ATH M40x, compare it to the 280 pros, and then give a recommendation in the Final Word!

  1. Introduction
  2. Ratings/Price
  3. Specifications
  4. Summary
  5. Pros
  6. Cons
  7. Video Review
  8. Who this mic benefits?
  9. What you will need?
  10. Thoughts from Stu’s notepad
  11. Consensus/Conclusion
  12. Similarities & Differences
  13. Final Word

Now without further ado, let’s get rolling!

Introduction

Both the Sennheiser HD280 and Audio Technica ATH M40x are good headphones in their own right, but very different in a lot of ways.

When I first got into higher-end headphones, it was 2010. I tirelessly researched for the perfect entry-level can, and I believe I found it in the Sony MDR 7506. The sound really blew me away at the time, and from that moment on I was addicted. It was the first time I got a chance to hear what music is supposed to sound like. Coming from cheap products my entire life, I had no clue that headphones were capable of producing such accurate and engaging sound. I assumed that they were mostly created the same and that the majority of them sounded alike.

It’s embarrassing to admit, but I believed that high-quality headphones existed inside the CVS pharmacy. That’s not to say that all of them are terrible; but rather, you’re probably not going to find an audiophile-type sound inside of a drug store. 🙂 What is an Audiophile?

A great example of a headphone like this is the old tried and true Sony MDR V150, which was (and still is) perhaps Sony’s most important budget model. It’s a sound that’s immediately accessible to the average listener and still remains a pretty good purchase even today!

After a few other purchases, including the Audio Technica ATH M50, I was curious to try out the Sennheiser HD280 Pro. I liked the sound, okay, but it was a bit flat for my tastes, as I really didn’t need mixing headphones at the time. I eventually gave it away, but I do believe it’s still a remarkable headphone for reference purposes.

I also ended up purchasing the M40x in 2017. It’s a great entry-level headphone with a slight emphasis on bass but flies mostly under the radar because of the M50x. While the 50x’s sound signature is a little more for pure listening enjoyment, the 40x boasts a relatively balanced sound with more emphasis on mixing and mastering.

Audio Technica M40x

The Best Headphones for Rock Music

Leaf Not Included.

Ratings/Price

Specifications

Summary

The Audio Technica ATH M40x’s often get overlooked because of their 50x brother. They have a similar sound signature to that of the 50x but are more neutral overall. The bass is a bit more subdued, but many appreciate the fact that it’s tighter and more controlled this time around. Related: Audio Technica ATH M40x vs. M50x

Its mid-range is somewhat improved as well, and overall the sound is very clear and articulate.

Its build and comfort however were consistent gripes among reviewers, and cannot be overlooked.

Pros

  • Balanced, neutral sound. Very clear and articulate.
  • Crisp, clear treble.
  • Controlled and balanced bass, but still tight. Compare a Mike Tyson punch with a Muhammad Ali punch. The 40x’s have the precise, strong Ali punches, while other headphones have a raw, brutal, wild, and uncontrolled Tyson punch. Heh.
  • Collapsible/fold-able.
  • Mid-range is great. It’s very neutral and realistic.
  • Voices sound natural.
  • Replaceable cables and 2 chords included + a leather case.
  • Good instrument Timbre. What is Timbre?

Cons

  • May need frequent adjustments over a long listening session. Many reviewers complained that they aren’t very comfortable. Clamp force is a bit tight, and the ear-cups are a little small for some.
  • Not very durable? They aren’t quite as durable as the 50x’s, but I haven’t had any issues. The high-stress areas of the headphone are reportedly prone to breaking.

My Video Review!

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Amp/DAC requirements

I wouldn’t really bother purchasing an amp with this set. Just make sure that your source files are of good quality. More on that later. Also, a bit of EQ helps to get the desired sound. They aren’t perfect by any means but can be tweaked rather easily according to many reviewers.

Who these headphones benefit?

Endorsed for all of the following:

  • Gaming
  • Editing
  • Monitoring church broadcasts
  • Mixing/monitoring music
  • Metal
  • Rock
  • EDM
  • Hip-Hop. Don’t buy them strictly for hip-hop, however. You may do better with the 50x’s in this regard.
  • Classical
  • Jazz

Thoughts from Stu’s Notepad

  • The headphones are extremely light. A lot lighter than the Audio Technica ATH M50’s. The 40x’s don’t feel cheap in all respects, but the way the cups swivel does feel a bit underwhelming (as in cheap, lol).
  • There is a break-in period. The high-end harshness will go away within a week, and overall they warm up quite a bit. I can attest to this with the M50’s, as they went through the same process.
  • Make sure that your source files have a bit rate of at least 320 kbps. You’ll also want to EQ just a tad and your experience should be good. If you’re listening to tunes with a bit-rate of 128, you’re probably going to be in for a world of pain (Like Smokey from Big Lebowski). That said, these are studio headphones, so adjust accordingly.
  • These aren’t really reference headphones as the moniker would suggest. The clarity, coupled with a bit too much bass renders them unworthy to mix with according to some. Others loved them for mixing, however.
  • A lot of people complained of discomfort with the ear cups. If you do plan to get these, aftermarket earpieces can be purchased. I’m not sure if it’s worth it to pour a bunch of extra money into these though, especially when you can find something better. I mean yeah, you can upgrade the cups, and add a 1.2m cable, but it’s going to cost you.
  • The proprietary chord mechanism makes it so you can only use Audio Technica cables with this set. You could buy an adapter, but it will cost. Again, not really worth all the trouble in my opinion.
  • Saw some people who said that if you wear glasses, these may become a bit uncomfortable as well due to the issue of clamping force.
  • I can’t really come to a clear consensus about the bass either way; some say it’s overpowering, while others claim there’s not enough. Still, others say the response is tight and balanced.
  • The Soundstage here isn’t out of this world, but it’s tighter than that of the M50/50x. What is Soundstage?
  • The treble on the 40x’s may be a bit bright/sibilant to some. What does sibilant mean?

Consensus/Conclusion

A fantastic sounding set of headphones that suffer from a lack of comfort and some build quality issues – namely the plastic around the bottom of the headband (the swivel area that connects to the ear-cup) is rather cheap. Aside from some minor build issues (and many don’t ever end up having issues), this is a perfect entry-level headphone that works well in a lot of situations.

Now let’s take a look at how the 280 stacks up!

Similarities & Differences

Similarities

  • Both are pretty flat and neutral across the frequency spectrum.
  • Both have a tight clamping force at first. The 280 does loosen up a bit over time.
  • Both are meant for in-studio and don’t do well on the go.
  • Both are closed-back and circumaural, at around the same price.
  • Both include a 1/4″ adapter.

Differences

  • The 40x’s have less sound isolation.
  • The 40x’s aren’t as comfortable.
  • Bass. The 40x’s have more bass than the 280. I had owned a 280 for a while, and to me, the bass was on the leaner side. It definitely rolls off a bit more than the 40x’s. The 40x’s mid-bass has a bit of over-emphasis which can sound a bit muddy/flabby at times. It’s pretty subtle but over time definitely noticeable. The 280’s bass is a little more consistent if a bit boring. Still, it’s probably just the right amount for reference purposes as it neither sounds too rolled off or boosted.
  • Mid-range. I would say the 280’s mid-range is more consistent and a bit flatter. More conducive to mixing. The midrange on the 40x is still very revealing if a tad pushed back/recessed. You can definitely tell a difference in how vocals and instruments sound with each other. The 280 is a bit more forward in that respect.
  • Treble. The 280’s treble is also a bit darker with less sizzle than the 40x. The 40x’s can sound a bit grainy/metallic at times which is another pretty subtle thing you’ll notice with high hats especially. For instance, the same high hat can sound a bit worse on the 40x vs. something like a 280 or V6. Related: Sony MDR V6 Review!
  • Overall/Mixing and Mastering. The 280 is certainly more relaxed than the intense, semi-in-your-face character of the 40x. From a mixing and mastering standpoint, I would always opt for a 280 over a 40x if my intent was to be critical of the music. The 40x is more of a casual listener’s choice, but it’s not like freeze-dried Tasters Choice or anything. 😛 (Pulp Fiction reference?)
  • The 280 is much more durable than the 40x’s. The plastic used is heavy-duty and doesn’t feel like it’s going to snap like the 40x’s. Keep in mind that the 280 is definitely bulkier.
  • The 40x’s come with a coiled & straight cable, while the 280’s only come with a coiled.
  • The HD280’s have better sound isolation. I remember wearing them and thinking to myself “This is probably the best isolation outside of a dedicated Noise Cancelling type of headphones that I’ve heard.” Related: How do noise cancelling headphones work?
  • The 40x’s cables can be removed, while the 280’s singled coiled cable cannot.
  • The 280 is a bit heavier (10 oz. vs. 8.5 oz.)

Final Word

I really do think the 280 is a great solution for mixing, but you may not like it if you ever plan on just listening to music casually with it. It’s a bit too flat for pure enjoyment. That said, I think it’s an important headphone and definitely worthy of a gander.

 

 

That said, my top recommendation in this price range comes in the form of the Sony MDR V6’s. They are definitely top dog and do exceptionally well in mixing/reference applications. They’ve been around for decades too, and their longevity factor is extremely solid. Interested in learning more about one of my favorite closed-back headphones?

CHECK OUT MY OFFICIAL SONY MDR V6 REVIEW!!


Well, that’s about it for today my friend! I hope you’ve enjoyed this article on the Audio Technica ATH M40x vs. Sennheiser HD 280 Pro.

Questions? Comments? Requests? Did I miss the mark on something? Please let me know down below or Contact me!!

What are your thoughts on the V6? What about the 40x? I would love to hear from you.

Until next time…

All the best and God bless,

 

-Stu

[Xtr@Ba$eHitZ]

Can’t decide which headphones to purchase? Interested in a complete buyers guide outlining over 40 of the best options on the market? Click on over to the best audiophile headphones to learn more!!

Be sure to also check out my Reviews and Resources page for more helpful and informative articles!

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8 comments

james August 8, 2016 - 11:49 pm

Which is best for studio monitoring hip-hop, ath m50x or sennheiser hd 380 pro?

Reply
Stu August 9, 2016 - 1:27 am

Definitely the 380’s for mixing. I have used the M50x’s in studio, but they are more for the casual consumer looking for audiophile type quality at a decent price. The bass is what makes them, but it’s also what prevents them from being neutral and honest. They definitely color the sound, but aren’t bloated like say Beats by Dre. Putting them on for the first time is a real treat, but I wouldn’t buy them to mix.

Hope that helps! Any other questions just ask or Contact me!

Blessings,
-Stu

Reply
Maximus Prime January 10, 2018 - 1:25 am

Which is better for hip hop, the 280 pro, shure srh440, ath m40x, ath m50x, akg k271, or 380 pro? Thank you so much, you’re the reviewer king <3

Reply
Stuart Charles Black January 10, 2018 - 2:55 am

Def would go with the 40x out of those for hip-hop/rap in the entry level range. See my email 🙂 Thanks for the kind words. I will do my best to uphold the title. 😀

Reply
Emmanuel Pérez May 31, 2018 - 2:43 am

Great Article

In my local store I can find in the same range price the following headphones: Shure 440, Audiotechnica m40x and Sennheiser hd280 pro.
Which one should I buy? For home studio use.

Also cheaper is the Shure srh240 A. Is it to bad compared to the three listed before??

thank you.

Reply
Stuart Charles Black May 31, 2018 - 5:14 pm

Thanks Emmanuel!

The 40x is more for casual use, as it has a heavier bass response and a somewhat more “fun” signature.
The 440 has a very flat signature with a textured bass and a much brighter overall character.
The 280 is extremely flat, to the point of boring to be honest. I don’t really like it much.

I would suggest the V6 for mixing above these, but if that’s not an option go with the 440. It has a somewhat similar sound but just less bass and because of that it comes across as brighter.

Let me know what you decide and if you need further clarification!!

V6 Review: https://homestudiobasics.com/sony-mdr-v6-studio-monitor-series-headphones-a-classic/

Regards,
-Stu

Reply
Ignacio February 20, 2019 - 12:28 am

Hi, thanks for the excellent review, so clear!
I already have a 280 and I’m not so happy about it when it comes to mixing, I have the chance to get the 40x for a ridiculous price or go further and get a Beyerdynamic DT770 (80 ohms), wich are almost double as the 40x, what do you think? Have you tried the Beyer? Does the difference justifies the price? Thanks! Best wishes from Argentina.

Reply
Stuart Charles Black February 25, 2019 - 5:15 pm

I like the 770’s and the 40x’s. In fact my main portable headphone is the 40xa but I’m not sure I would rely on it full time for mixing. The mid-bass is a tad over accentuated. Have you thought about the Sony MDR V6?

I suppose if you don’t like the 280 you may not like the V6 only because of the more rolled off bass. Both are kind of similar although the V6’s treble is more prominent and it has more bass roll off than the 280. Mid-range is fairly flat on both.

Heck you may try the M40x and like it better. It will do better for mixing than a 50x. 40x is a bit scooped in the lower mids but other than that it’s a very very good signature.

What you will get with a 770 is a more open and spacious sound so for mixing you may actually enjoy it better. Comfort is better as well. I think I would go with that one actually if that’s the type of sound signature you’re after.

Kind of tough decision, but the difference in price is justified in my opinion because of comfort alone almost and better Imaging. You will find yourself getting semi-uncomfortable in a short amount of time with the 40x.

Please keep me posted!
-Stu

Reply

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