Shure SRH840A Professional Monitoring Headphones: The Clear Choice for Precise Audio Monitoring

Published on June 12, 2023, 5:58 p.m.

The SRH840A from Shure represents the next evolution in the company’s line of studio monitoring headphones. Building upon the legacy of the SRH840, the SRH840A brings improved design and enhanced features to provide an ideal listening experience for audio professionals and enthusiasts.
Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones

Overview

The Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones brings the audio purity and balance Shure is known for in a sleek, lightweight, and comfortable over-ear design perfect for extended studio sessions.

Key features:

Closed-back circumaural design
Precisely tailored frequency response
40mm neodymium drivers
Detachable cable with locking mechanism
Adjustable, padded headband
Collapsible design for portability

Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones

Design

The Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones utilizes a simple, minimalist aesthetic with an all-black color scheme. The durable construction provides a professional feel while the comfortable padded headband and collapsible design maximize comfort and portability.

Audio Quality

With Shure’s expertise in audio reproduction, the Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones delivers exceptionally clear and accurate sound. The 40mm neodymium drivers provide impactful bass, pristine mids, and extended treble. The headphones have a neutral sound signature well suited for mixing and monitoring applications.

Microphone

The Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones does not contain an integrated microphone since they are passive, wired headphones designed for studio use rather than phone calls or voice assistant features.

Noise Isolation

The closed-back, over-ear design with plush earpads provides excellent passive noise isolation from ambient noise. This improves monitoring accuracy in loud environments.

Battery Life

As passive wired headphones, the Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones do not contain batteries and do not require charging. They function as long as connected to a powered audio source via the included detachable cable.

Connectivity

The Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones utilizes a wired connection via a 3m detachable cable with standard 3.5mm plugs on each end. A threaded 6.3mm adapter is included for connecting to stereo equipment.

Controls

There are no onboard controls. Volume, playback and other controls are managed on the connected device.

Accessories

The Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones comes with a 3m detachable cable, 6.3mm adapter, carrying case, and 2-year warranty. The cable locks securely into place and allows for easy replacement.

Use Cases

The Shure SRH840A headphones are ideal for:

Music production - mixing, mastering, tracking
Podcast editing and monitoring
Field recording and location audio monitoring
Critical listening for audio enthusiasts

User Feedback

With over 1,100 customer reviews on Amazon averaging 4.5 out of 5 stars, the Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones have been well-received overall. Satisfied customers praise the audio quality, comfort, noise isolation and value. But there are some common critiques to consider as well.

Sound Quality

Many reviewers describe the Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones’s sound as clear, detailed and accurate. The bass is full and impactful without muddying the pristine mids and smooth treble. The excellent audio reproduction makes these ideal for studio monitoring and critical listening. Even audio engineers are impressed with the neutral, reference-grade sound.

Comfort

Users find the padded headband and earcups comfortable for long mixing and listening sessions. The circumaural fit creates a nice seal around the ears. At just 260g, the headphones remain comfortable when worn for hours thanks to the lightweight and adjustable design. Those with larger heads do complain about fit issues however.

Noise Isolation

With a closed-back design and comfortable seal, the Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones effectively blocks out ambient noise like computer fans, roommates, etc. This passive isolation enhances monitoring accuracy and listening enjoyment. Noise isolation was better than expected based on reviews.

Durability

Customers comment on the headphones’ sturdy, durable feel with metal reinforced headband and high-quality plastic components able to withstand daily use. The detachable audio cable uses a robust connection as well. Shure products are built to last based on reviews.

Value

Many reviewers consider the Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones an excellent value at around $149 given the professional-grade audio performance, headphone accessories and 2-year warranty. This sound quality competes with sets costing over $200.

Possible Improvements

Some customers did have minor complaints. A frequently cited issue is that the headband is too small to fit larger head sizes comfortably. The earcups also run slightly shallow for some users’ ears. Overall though, a great headphone set according to reviews.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Excellent audio reproduction and clarity
Good noise isolation
Durable construction
Comfortable for extended wear

Cons:

Headband may not fit all head sizes
Earcups on the smaller side

Value

With premium drivers and sound quality comparable to headphones costing over $200, the Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones provides excellent value at around $149. The durability, accessories, and 2-year warranty further add to the value proposition.

Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones

Summary

With premium sound, excellent comfort, and enhanced design, the new Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones takes monitoring headphones to the next level. For audio professionals demanding accurate reference audio, the Shure SRH840A Over-Ear Wired Headphones represents the clear choice.