Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones - Enhanced Audio Quality

The Shure SRH440A offers hi-fi sound quality at a reasonable price point. But how do these affordable studio headphones actually perform? Let’s break down the key pros and cons.

Overview

With a neutral sound signature and robust construction, the Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones aims to deliver accurate audio reproduction for critical listening applications. Though not as slick looking as some consumer headphones, they provide exceptional detail and isolation in a reasonably priced package.

Key Features

• Accurate and detailed audio reproduction
• Over-ear closed-back design
• Collapsible and adjustable steel headband
• Replaceable ear pads and cable
• Robust and durable construction

Design and Comfort

Built like a tank, these Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones can withstand heavy use. The padded headband and ear cups offer decent comfort, though shallow padding causes discomfort for some during longer sessions. Those with larger ears may also find their ears pressing against the inside of the ear cups.

Sound Quality

The Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones shines when it comes to sound reproduction. The 40mm dynamic drivers deliver clear mids/highs and a detailed soundstage. The bass doesn’t thump but sounds articulate. The headphones have a neutral signature ideal for accurate monitoring.

Microphone

The Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones does not contain an integrated microphone. It is designed purely for personal listening applications.

Battery Life

As a wired headphone, the Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones does not contain internal batteries and does not need to be charged. It will function as long as it is connected to a powered audio source.

Connectivity

The Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones utilizes a detachable 3m coiled cable terminated in a 3.5mm plug, with a threaded 1⁄4” adapter included. It can connect to any device with a 3.5mm headphone jack or 1⁄4” output.

Controls

No built-in controls exist on the Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones. Volume and playback are managed on the connected media device.

Water Resistance

Shure does not specify any water resistance rating for the Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones. The Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones are likely susceptible to damage from moisture and should be kept away from water.

Use Cases

The Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones is ideal for music producers, sound engineers, podcasters, and other creative professionals who need accurate monitoring when recording or mixing audio. The headphones provide excellent isolation, allowing you to hear nuances clearly without ambient noise. Casual listeners who want great hi-fi sound on a budget will also love the Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones’s crisp and spacious reproduction.

User Feedback

The Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones receives overwhelmingly positive reviews from users focused on audio quality and critical listening. Many describe the sound as stunningly clear and detailed, especially in the midrange and treble frequencies. The neutral signature perfectly balances various instruments and vocals in mixes, allowing the Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones to excel as a studio monitoring headphone.

However, the bass reproduction receives more divided opinions. While some appreciate the articulate bass that avoids muddiness, others find it too subdued for enjoying thumping hip-hop or EDM tracks. Without the typical bass emphasis of consumer headphones, the low end lacks visceral impact.

Comfort is another area of debate. Users note the plush ear pads and padded headband provide a comfortable initial fit. But over longer listening sessions, the shallow padding causes hotspots on the head for some. Additionally, those with larger ears may find their outer edges pressing against the inside of the ear cups. Many opt to swap the pads for thicker alternatives.

Build quality garners universal praise, with users satisfied by the durable construction that feels like it could withstand years of regular use. The detachable cable is seen as a huge plus for serviceability, though cable quality could be better. Overall, users feel the Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones provides tremendous value by delivering such natural and honest sound at an affordable price point. For studio applications or critical listening, the headphones hit far above their modest cost.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Superb sound quality and neutral signature
• Excellent detail and isolation
• Durable construction and materials
• Removable cable and ear pads
• Great value for price

Cons:

• Bass could use more body and impact
• Shallow ear pad and headband padding
• Not the most stylish design

Value

With street prices around $100, the Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones delivers outstanding performance and critical listening capability at an affordable price point. While more expensive headphones exceed the Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones’s comfort and bass impact, few in this price tier match its impressive studio-quality sound.

Conclusion

For analytical listening and studio work, the Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Headphones is easy to recommend. Audiophiles on a budget will love the accurate and detailed sound. Just don’t expect booming bass or lavish materials typically found in more expensive consumer headphones.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Shure SRH440A headphones stand out?

The Shure SRH440A headphones are distinguished by their superior audio quality, enhanced frequency response, and durable design. They offer transparent, natural sound with detailed accuracy across an extended range, making them ideal for monitoring and recording in professional studio settings. Additionally, their lightweight and comfortable design, along with the collapsible construction, ensure easy portability for extended use.

Are the Shure SRH440A headphones compatible with all audio devices?

Yes, the Shure SRH440A headphones are designed to work with all professional audio devices. Their enhanced frequency response, impedance, and power handling are optimized for performance with a wide range of audio equipment, ensuring compatibility and versatility in various studio environments.

What are the key improvements in the new SRH440A compared to the previous model?

The new SRH440A headphones build upon the foundation of the previous SRH440 model with several key improvements. These include a new design, enhanced features, and improved audio performance. Specifically, the SRH440A offers superior audio quality with a more detailed and accurate sound signature, along with increased isolation and a longer straight cable for added convenience during use.

Can the cable of the Shure SRH440A headphones be detached?

Yes, the Shure SRH440A headphones come with a long detachable locking cable, providing flexibility and convenience for storage and replacement. The 3-meter (10-foot) straight cable can be easily detached from the headphones, offering versatility for different recording and monitoring setups.

Are the Shure SRH440A headphones suitable for podcasting and home recording?

Yes, the Shure SRH440A headphones are well-suited for podcasting, home recording, and critical editing/mixing tasks. Their consistent and uncolored sound response ensures accurate representation of audio, making them an excellent choice for capturing the best performance in podcasting and recording sessions. Additionally, the increased isolation and durable design make them suitable for various recording environments.

Tips

• When using the Shure SRH440A headphones, ensure to adjust the headband for a comfortable fit to minimize fatigue during extended use.
• Consider using a headphone amplifier or audio interface to maximize the performance of the SRH440A headphones, especially in professional studio setups.
• Regularly clean and maintain the headphones to preserve their performance and longevity, particularly the ear cushions and cable connections.
• Experiment with different audio sources and recording setups to optimize the audio quality and monitoring experience with the SRH440A headphones.
• Take advantage of the free two-year warranty included with the SRH440A headphones to protect your investment and ensure peace of mind.

Knowledge

1. Shure History: Shure, with a history of innovation dating back to 1925, is renowned for setting the industry standard for superior and reliable microphones and audio electronics worldwide.
2. Studio Monitoring: Studio headphones like the Shure SRH440A are essential tools for professionals in audio production, offering accurate sound reproduction and isolation for critical monitoring and recording tasks.
3. Headphone Selection Criteria: When choosing studio headphones, factors such as sound accuracy, comfort, durability, and compatibility with audio equipment are crucial considerations for achieving optimal performance in recording and monitoring applications.
4. Frequency Response: The frequency response of headphones determines the range of audio frequencies they can reproduce accurately, influencing the overall sound quality and tonal balance perceived by the listener.
5. Isolation and Comfort: Effective isolation from external noise and a comfortable fit are essential features of studio headphones like the Shure SRH440A, ensuring accurate monitoring and preventing listener fatigue during extended use.

Specifications

• Transducer Type: Dynamic
• Driver Size: 40mm
• Frequency Range: 10 Hz - 22 kHz
• Impedance: 44 ohms
• Sensitivity: 105 dB SPL/mW
• Maximum Input Power: 500 mW
• Cable: Detachable 3m coiled cable (10 ft)
• Connector: Gold-plated 3.5mm (1/8”) stereo plug
• Weight: 285g (10 oz)
• Included Accessories: threaded 1⁄4” (6.3 mm) gold-plated adapter, storage bag

What’s in the Box

The Shure SRH440A comes packaged with the headphones, a 3m detachable coiled cable, threaded 1⁄4” (6.3 mm) gold-plated adapter, and a storage bag.

How to Use

Connect the SRH440A to your audio source using the 3.5mm plug. For professional equipment that uses 1⁄4” jacks, screw on the included threaded adapter. Adjust the steel headband to fit comfortably over your head. Listen and enjoy the detailed and accurate sound reproduction! An external headphone amplifier is recommended to drive the headphones to their full potential.