Audio-Technica M30x vs M40x – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Why Do I Recommend The Audio-Technica M40x? 

• The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x features a wider frequency response of 15 Hz – 24,000 Hz for capturing more detailed high-end audio during mixing, whereas the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x supports a narrower range of 15 Hz – 22,000 Hz.
• Audio-Technica ATH-M40x has a detachable cable system with both a coiled and straight cable for flexibility in studio and portable use, while the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x comes with a fixed straight cable that limits replacement options.
• It includes 90° swiveling earcups for convenient one-ear monitoring in DJ and recording environments, whereas the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x has limited swivel movement.
• The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x has a lower impedance of 35 ohms for easier driving from mobile devices without dedicated amplifier, while the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x has a higher impedance of 47 ohms.
• Audio-Technica ATH-M40x features thicker headband padding and premium earpads for enhanced comfort during extended listening sessions, whereas the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x has thinner padding and standard earpads.
• It supports higher maximum input power of 1,600 mW at 1 kHz for better handling of loud studio playback without distortion, while the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x supports 1,300 mW at 1 kHz.
• The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x has higher sensitivity at 98 dB for achieving greater loudness at the same volume settings, whereas the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x has a lower sensitivity of 96 dB.
• Audio-Technica ATH-M40x features a reinforced folding mechanism with more durable hinges for long-term professional use, while the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x has a simpler collapsible design.

Maybe the Audio-Technica M30x 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.

What Common Both Can Do?

• Brand & Series: Both belong to Audio-Technica’s Professional Monitor Headphones lineup, ensuring they share the company’s studio-grade tuning philosophy and reliability.
• Driver Type & Size: Both use 40 mm dynamic drivers in a closed-back design, delivering good sound isolation and minimal sound leakage — ideal for monitoring in noisy or shared environments.
• Magnet & Voice Coil Material: Each model incorporates rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire (CCAW) voice coils, helping maintain a balance of sound clarity, efficiency, and reduced driver weight.
• Low-End Frequency Response: Both extend down to 15 Hz, providing strong sub-bass presence for accurate reproduction of deep tones in music and sound design.
• Over-Ear Circumaural Design: Each model fully covers the ears, enhancing comfort during long sessions while improving passive isolation from external noise.
• Passive Noise Isolation: Neither uses active noise cancellation; instead, both rely on earcup sealing and padding for sound isolation, maintaining a natural and unprocessed sound.
• Connector & Adapter: Both come with a gold-plated 3.5 mm stereo plug for reduced signal loss and a screw-on 6.3 mm adapter, making them compatible with both professional audio gear and consumer devices.
• Collapsible Structure: Both have a folding design that allows easier portability and storage, particularly for mobile DJs, musicians, and audio engineers.
• Adjustable Headband: Both provide a flexible headband adjustment mechanism, enabling a customized fit for different head sizes and shapes.
• Primary Color & Aesthetic: Both are primarily available in black, matching Audio-Technica’s professional and understated studio aesthetic.
• Intended Use: Both are designed for studio monitoring, tracking, and general audio production, ensuring sound reproduction aims to be accurate rather than heavily colored.
• Warranty Coverage: Each comes with a limited 2-year warranty, showing Audio-Technica’s confidence in build quality and durability.