The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x are fairly comfortable with a moderate weight (0.55 lbs) and clamping force (1.1 lbs), and large earcups to distribute the pressure but aren’t too portable.
The headband and earcups’ padding is slightly rigid and squeaky, but they swivel for easy adjustment. There’s no ANC, and passive noise isolation on these headphones is poor across the bass and mid-range and below average for treble frequencies.
The plastic build is tough, and the earcups are durable, but rough use could damage the joints.
Despite the lack of controls and average bass accuracy and leakage, their neutral sound makes for a well-balanced listening experience. The 3.08m wired (1/8″ TRS) connection is convenient for home and studio use, but no Bluetooth is inconvenient for mobility.
