Shure SRH440A Professional Over-Ear Wired Studio Headphones – Monitoring & Recording Headphones with Enhanced Frequency Response, Adjustable & Collapsible Design, Works with All Audio Devices, Black
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AI Verdict
These are 9-ounce, wired, closed-back headphones with 40mm dynamic drivers, built for accurate audio monitoring and recording.
These headphones offer a transparent, natural sound signature and effective passive noise isolation, making them suitable for critical audio tasks like monitoring and recording. However, user reports of shallow earcups causing discomfort after a few hours and concerns about the all-plastic build quality mean they aren't ideal for everyone or for extended, non-critical listening sessions.
If comfort for long sessions is paramount, look for headphones with deeper, softer earpads and a more robust headband design, or consider models with velour earpads.
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Pros
- Transparent, natural sound signature provides accurate, detailed audio across an extended frequency range.
- Closed-back, circumaural design passively reduces background noise, aiding focus during mixing or recording.
- Collapsible construction allows for easy packing and transport without sacrificing durability.
- Includes a 3-meter detachable straight cable, offering ample length and easy replacement.
- 40mm dynamic neodymium drivers deliver a natural and well-balanced frequency response.
- The sound profile is mostly neutral, with a 5-7dB bass shelf between 20Hz and 100Hz, avoiding boominess.
Cons
- The cable connection at the headphone end has been reported to loosen and short out over time.
- Users report the earcups are shallow and the padding can feel plasticky, leading to discomfort after extended use.
- Build quality is described as mostly plastic, feeling cheap, flimsy, and creaky compared to other headphones in its price range.
- The twist-lock cable mechanism is a point of user frustration.
- The original SRH440's coiled cable is not compatible with the SRH440A's port.
Dimension Scores
The headphones offer a transparent, natural sound signature with accurate, detailed audio and a mostly neutral frequency response, including a 5-7dB bass shelf between 20Hz and 100Hz.
The closed-back, circumaural design provides above-average passive sound isolation, effectively reducing background noise.
Despite an adjustable headband, users report shallow and plasticky earcups that can cause discomfort and pressure on the ears after a few hours of use.
These are wired headphones and do not have a battery.
Best For
- Home studio recording and monitoring, where accurate, uncolored sound is prioritized.
- Podcasting and critical editing/mixing, due to consistent sound response and increased isolation.
- Situations requiring passive noise reduction to minimize distractions from background noise.
- Users who need a long (3m) detachable cable for flexibility in a studio setup.
Not Recommended For
- Casual listening where a 'fun' or V-shaped sound signature with prominent bass is preferred.
- Users prioritizing maximum comfort for all-day wear, due to shallow pads and potential ear pressure.
- Anyone needing a coiled cable, as this model only includes a 3-meter straight cable.
Watch Out For
- The cable connection to the headphone can become loose and short out, impacting audio reliability.
- Earcups are shallow and can cause pressure on the ears after a few hours of use, leading to discomfort.
- The construction is primarily plastic, and some users find it feels cheap and creaky, raising concerns about long-term durability.
- The twist-lock mechanism for the detachable cable is a common point of annoyance for users.
- The bass response, while neutral, might be perceived as 'boring' or 'weak' by those accustomed to bass-boosted headphones.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 042406552110 |
| ASIN | B09DRPS3YG |
| Brand | Shure |
| Color | Black |
| Style | Gen 2 |
| Units | 1.0 Count |
| Material | Wired |
| Batteries | Nonstandard Battery batteries required. |
| Impedance | 40 Ohms |
| Color Name | Black |
| Generation | Gen 2 |
| Model Name | SRH440A |
| Form Factor | Over Ear |
| Item Weight | 9 ounces |
| Sensitivity | 102 dB |
| Control Type | Media Control, Volume Control |
| Manufacturer | Shure |
| Cable Feature | Retractable |
| Ear Placement | Over Ear |
| Material Type | Wired |
| Noise Control | Sound Isolation |
| Connector Type | 3.5mm Jack |
| Control Method | Touch |
| Earpiece Shape | rounded |
| Controller Type | Wired (6.35 mm Jack) |
| Headphones Jack | 6.35 mm Jack |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Special Feature | Foldable |
| Audio Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
| Hardware Platform | camera |
| Item model number | SRH440A |
| Compatible Devices | Professional Audio Devices |
| Frequency Response | 22 KHz |
| Hardware Interface | 1/4-inch Audio |
| Product Dimensions | 10 x 9.85 x 3.23 inches |
| Carrying Case Color | Black |
| Included Components | Shure SRH440A Professional Studio Headphones, 1/4" Threaded Adapter, User Guide, and Free 2-Year Warranty |
| Customer Package Type | Standard Packaging |
| Input Device Interface | Audio jack |
| Noise Control Features | sound_isolation |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Specific Uses For Product | Home, Professional, Studio |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Recording, Music |
| Supports Bluetooth Technology | No |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
What Buyers Say
Many users upgrading from the original SRH440 note that the 'A' version has a different sonic profile and a straight cable instead of coiled, which can be a surprise. While praised for its accurate and neutral sound, the build quality, particularly the all-plastic construction and the cable's connection point, frequently comes up as a concern for long-term durability. The shallow earcups are a recurring complaint, limiting comfort for extended wear despite the 'plush' description.
“Man, these sound so clear for mixing, but after like two hours my ears are screaming, and that cable connection feels like it's gonna give out any day now. Why can't they just make the pads deeper?!”
Common Praise
- Accurate, detailed, and natural sound signature suitable for studio work.
- Effective passive noise isolation from the closed-back design.
- Detachable 3-meter straight cable offers flexibility and easy replacement.
- Collapsible design makes them easy to transport.
- Midrange is natural and accurate, with highs that are bright but not harsh.
- Bass is tight, accurate, and clean, sitting in a balanced middle ground without being boomy.
Common Complaints
- Cable connection at the headphone end tends to loosen and short out over time.
- Earcups are shallow and can cause pressure on the ears, leading to discomfort after extended use.
- Overall construction feels cheap, flimsy, and creaky due to extensive plastic use.
- The twist-lock cable mechanism is inconvenient.
- Sound can be perceived as 'flat' or 'boring' by those not accustomed to a neutral studio sound.
- The headband has minimal padding, contributing to a 'clunky' feel on the head.
Ownership Tips
- The 'new design' is mostly plastic and can feel less robust than expected for studio gear, with creaking noises developing over time.
- The detachable cable, while convenient for replacement, has a twist-lock that can be fiddly, and the connection point itself is a weak link for durability.
- The earcups, despite being described as plush, are often found to be too shallow, causing the ears to press against the drivers during longer sessions.
- The neutral sound profile, while accurate for monitoring, might require an adjustment period if you're used to consumer headphones with boosted frequencies.
- The included straight cable is 3 meters long, which is great for studio use but can be cumbersome for portable listening if you don't swap it out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these headphones suitable for casual music listening?
While you can listen to music, their neutral sound signature might be perceived as 'flat' or 'boring' if you prefer headphones with enhanced bass or treble for casual enjoyment.
Do these headphones come with a coiled cable?
No, the SRH440A model includes a 3-meter (10 ft.) detachable straight cable. The older SRH440 model came with a coiled cable, but it's not compatible with the A-series.
How is the noise isolation on these headphones?
They feature a closed-back, circumaural design that provides above-average passive noise isolation, helping to reduce background distractions during use.
Are the earcups replaceable?
Yes, the earcups are replaceable, which can extend the lifespan of the headphones.
Are these headphones comfortable for long recording sessions?
While they have an adjustable headband and plush earcups, some users find the pads shallow, leading to pressure and discomfort after a few hours of continuous wear.
What is the impedance of these headphones?
The Shure SRH440A has an impedance of 44 Ohms.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at wired studio headphones like these, you're buying a tool for critical listening, not just something to casually enjoy music with. This means the sound is designed to be as neutral and accurate as possible, so you hear exactly what's in your audio without artificial enhancements. Comfort is also key because you'll likely be wearing them for extended periods during recording or mixing sessions. Pay close attention to how they fit your head and ears, and consider the durability of components like the cable and earcups, as these are often the first things to show wear.
Type: Over-Ear, Closed-Back
Over-ear means the earcups fully enclose your ears, which helps with comfort. Closed-back means the earcups are sealed, preventing sound from leaking out and blocking external noise from coming in. This is crucial for recording so your microphone doesn't pick up headphone audio, and for monitoring to keep you focused on your mix.
Driver: Dynamic Driver
Dynamic drivers are the most common type of speaker in headphones. They use a magnetic field to move a diaphragm, producing sound. For studio headphones, the quality of the dynamic driver determines how accurately it can reproduce the full range of frequencies in your audio, from deep bass to crisp highs.
Connectivity: Wired
Wired headphones connect directly to your audio source with a cable. This ensures a consistent, high-quality audio signal without any latency (delay) or compression issues that can occur with wireless connections. For studio work, zero latency is essential for precise timing in recording and mixing.
Noise Control: Sound Isolation
Sound isolation in closed-back headphones works by physically blocking external sounds. Think of it like putting your hands over your ears. This is different from active noise cancellation (ANC), which uses microphones and electronics to cancel out noise. For studio use, passive isolation is preferred to avoid any electronic interference with the audio signal.
Alternatives
If these don't fit, look for headphones with larger, deeper earpads and a more robust build, potentially with metal components in the headband or yokes. For a different sound, consider models with a slightly V-shaped frequency response for more pronounced bass and treble, or open-back designs if sound leakage isn't a concern and you want a wider soundstage.
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