Audio-Technica M40x & Sony MDR-7506 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Audio-Technica M40x rather than the Sony MDR-7506. 

Why Do I Recommend The Audio-Technica M40x

  • The Audio-Technica M40x comes with maximum input power of 1600 mW for compatibility with high-output studio equipment without distortion, whereas the Sony MDR-7506 handles up to 1000 mW.
  • Audio-Technica M40x extends up to 24 kHz in frequency response for slightly more treble detail in high-frequency sounds, while the Sony MDR-7506 extends up to 20 kHz.
  • It has a lower impedance of 35 ohms for efficient performance with smartphones, laptops, and portable players, while the Sony MDR-7506 has a higher impedance of 63 ohms that requires more power for optimal volume.
  • The Audio-Technica M40x comes with both a 1.2 m coiled cable and a 3.0 m straight cable for flexible use in different listening environments, whereas the Sony MDR-7506 includes only a fixed 3.0 m coiled cable.
  • Audio-Technica M40x includes a reinforced metal headband for improved durability during frequent studio or field use, while the Sony MDR-7506 uses a mostly plastic headband.
  • It features detachable cables for convenient replacement and easy storage during travel, whereas the Sony MDR-7506 uses a permanently attached coiled cable.
  • The Audio-Technica M40x has thicker synthetic leather earpads for enhanced comfort and better passive noise isolation in noisy environments, whereas the Sony MDR-7506 uses thinner earpads that provide less isolation.
  • Audio-Technica M40x supports a collapsible design with 90-degree swiveling earcups for compact storage and single-ear monitoring, while the Sony MDR-7506 folds inward with limited swivel movement.

Maybe the Sony MDR-7506 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Audio-Technica M40x. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureAudio-Technica M40xSony MDR-7506
Frequency Response15 Hz – 24 kHz10 Hz – 20 kHz
Sound SignatureBalanced with slightly boosted bass and midsBright and analytical with treble emphasis
Cable TypeDetachableFixed
Included Cables1.2 m coiled, 3.0 m straight3.0 m coiled
Cable ConnectorLocking 2.5 mm input on earcupPermanently attached
Folding MechanismCollapsible with 90° swivel cupsFolds inward with limited swivel
Weight (Without Cable)240 g230 g
Build FinishMatte black with silver accentsBlack with gold plug
Headband MaterialReinforced metal with synthetic leather paddingPlastic with synthetic leather padding
Earpad ThicknessThicker synthetic leather padsThinner synthetic leather pads
Clamp ForceModerate to firmLight to moderate
Isolation LevelHigher passive isolationModerate passive isolation
Replaceable CableYesNo
PortabilityCompact fold with detachable cable storageCompact fold but permanent cable
Primary UsageStudio monitoring, DJ, casual listeningStudio reference, broadcast, field recording
Bass ExtensionEmphasized mid-bassFlatter bass
Treble ExtensionSmooth high extensionExtended high-treble emphasis
Low-End Range15 Hz starting point10 Hz starting point
Max Input Power1600 mW1000 mW
PriceCheck Technica M40x PriceCheck Sony MDR-7506 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Driver Size: Both the Audio-Technica M40x and Sony MDR-7506 use 40 mm dynamic drivers, meaning they have similar physical driver dimensions, allowing for comparable sound projection and stereo imaging.
  • Closed-Back Design: Both feature closed-back earcups, preventing sound leakage and improving isolation, which is ideal for recording environments.
  • Stereo Sound: Each model provides stereo audio reproduction, delivering clear left-right separation for accurate mixing and listening.
  • Professional Use: Both are widely used in studios for monitoring, podcast production, and audio editing because of their accurate sound and reliability.
  • Impedance Range: Both models have low-to-moderate impedance ratings, enabling them to be driven by portable devices without needing a dedicated headphone amp.
  • Frequency Coverage: Both headphones have extended frequency response ranges that cover deep bass and detailed treble, ensuring full-spectrum sound reproduction.
  • Replaceable Earpads: The ear cushions on both models can be replaced, extending their usable lifespan and allowing for comfort customization.
  • Folding Design: Both headphones can be folded into a more compact form, making them easier to store in a bag or case.
  • Connector Type: Both use a 3.5 mm plug with a screw-on 6.3 mm adapter, ensuring compatibility with both consumer and professional audio equipment.
  • Passive Noise Isolation: The over-ear fit and clamping force of both models create a good seal, reducing background noise without the need for active noise cancellation.
  • Build Materials: Each model uses durable plastic as the primary material with metal reinforcement in the headband for added strength.
  • Comfort Style: Both use synthetic leather ear cushions, which are soft enough for prolonged use while maintaining isolation.
  • Portability: Both headphones are portable enough for location work or traveling audio professionals.
  • Durability Level: Built for studio environments, both are designed to endure daily handling and repeated folding without breaking easily.
  • Wired Connection: Both rely solely on wired connectivity, ensuring zero latency and consistent audio quality.

Common Features

FeatureAudio-Technica M40xSony MDR-7506
Driver Diameter40 mm40 mm
Driver TypeDynamicDynamic
Over-Ear DesignYesYes
Closed-Back ConstructionYesYes
Wired ConnectivityYesYes
Connector Type3.5 mm gold-plated with screw-on 6.3 mm adapter3.5 mm gold-plated with screw-on 6.3 mm adapter
Folding Design for PortabilityYesYes
Replaceable EarpadsYesYes
Studio Monitoring UseYesYes
Passive Noise IsolationYesYes
Frequency Range Beyond Human HearingYesYes
Lightweight BuildYesYes
Durable Construction for Professional UseYesYes
Comfortable Headband PaddingYesYes
No Active Noise CancellingYesYes
Price Check Technica M40x Price Check Sony MDR-7506 Price

FAQ

Which headphone has a more balanced sound profile, the Audio-Technica M40x or the Sony MDR-7506?
The Audio-Technica M40x has a more balanced tuning with slightly boosted bass and mids, while the Sony MDR-7506 emphasizes treble for a brighter, more analytical sound.

Which model is better for detecting audio imperfections during mixing?
The Sony MDR-7506 is generally better for detecting small audio imperfections because its treble-forward sound highlights details more prominently.

Do both headphones have detachable cables?
No, only the Audio-Technica M40x has detachable cables, while the Sony MDR-7506 uses a fixed coiled cable that cannot be removed.

Which headphone is easier to drive with portable devices?
The Audio-Technica M40x is easier to drive with portable devices due to its lower impedance of 35 ohms compared to the Sony MDR-7506’s 63 ohms.

Which model has a longer cable?
The Sony MDR-7506 comes with a fixed 3.0 m coiled cable, while the Audio-Technica M40x includes both a 3.0 m straight cable and a shorter coiled cable.

Which headphone is more comfortable for long listening sessions?
The Sony MDR-7506 is lighter with less clamp force, making it more comfortable for extended sessions, while the M40x’s tighter fit can feel more secure but less relaxed over long periods.

Do both headphones fold for portability?
Yes, both models fold for portability, though the M40x uses a collapsible swivel design and the MDR-7506 folds inward.

Which headphone isolates sound better?
The Audio-Technica M40x generally provides better passive noise isolation due to its thicker earpads and higher clamp force.

Which model is more durable for heavy studio use?
The Audio-Technica M40x is more durable for heavy use thanks to its reinforced metal headband, while the Sony MDR-7506 focuses more on lightweight portability.

Do both headphones work for live sound monitoring?
Yes, both are suitable for live sound monitoring, with the MDR-7506 favored for its treble clarity and the M40x for its balanced presentation.

Which headphone has better bass extension?
The Sony MDR-7506 reaches lower starting at 10 Hz, but the Audio-Technica M40x has more noticeable mid-bass presence, making it feel fuller.

Can the earpads on both models be replaced?
Yes, both headphones have replaceable earpads, allowing for maintenance or upgrades over time.

Which is better for casual music listening?
The Audio-Technica M40x is generally better for casual listening because of its more balanced and less fatiguing sound signature.

Which headphone handles higher power input?
The Audio-Technica M40x can handle up to 1600 mW of input power, while the Sony MDR-7506 is rated for 1000 mW.

Do either of these headphones have wireless connectivity?
No, both the Audio-Technica M40x and Sony MDR-7506 are wired-only headphones with no wireless or Bluetooth capabilities.

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