Shure SRH440A Professional Over-Ear Wired Studio Headphones Review: Ultimate Audio Experience
Shure SRH440A Professional Over-Ear Wired Studio Headphones – Monitoring & Recording Headphones with Enhanced Frequency Response, Adjustable & Collapsible Design, Works with All Audio Devices, Black
- Frequency Response: Enhanced, extended range for accurate sound
- Design: Adjustable, collapsible over-ear style for comfort and portability
- Weight: Ultra-lightweight at 0.563 pounds for long sessions
- Compatibility: Works with all professional and consumer audio devices
- Sound Quality: Transparent and natural sound signature for monitoring and mixing
- Durability: Improved build quality for long-lasting use
- Cushioning: Plush earcups for comfortable wear during extended use
- Dimensions: 3.23 x 9.85 x 10.0 inches for easy storage and transport
With many years of experience testing over-ear headphones, I understand what makes a great pair for both professionals and music lovers. In this review, I have carefully studied and personally tested the Shure SRH440A Professional Over-Ear Wired Studio Headphones. These headphones come with a new design but keep the trusted performance that Shure is known for. My goal is to give you a clear and honest analysis, based on thorough research and real use. This way, you can feel confident when deciding if these headphones are the right choice for your recording, monitoring, or everyday listening needs.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Accurate, detailed sound quality
- ✅ Comfortable for long sessions
- ✅ Durable, collapsible design
- ✅ Compatible with all pro audio gear
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Wired only, no wireless option
- ❌ Ear cups may feel tight for some users
- ❌ Lacks noise-cancelling feature
Who Should Buy This
The Shure SRH440A headphones are perfect for music lovers and professionals who need clear and accurate sound. If you work in recording, mixing, or monitoring music, these headphones give you detailed audio to hear every note. They are also great for students or beginners who want a quality pair without spending too much. The adjustable and collapsible design makes them easy to carry, so they are good for people on the go.
If you want wireless headphones or need extra comfort for long hours, these might not be the best choice. They are wired, so they limit your movement. Also, if you prefer very bass-heavy headphones for casual listening, these are made more for accurate sound than extra bass. In that case, look for headphones designed for entertainment rather than professional use.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: Shure
- Model: SRH440A
- Size: 3.23″ x 9.85″ x 10.0″
- Weight: 0.563 pounds
- Material: Durable plastic and metal components with padded earcups
- Color Options: Black
- Special Features: Enhanced frequency response, adjustable & collapsible design, professional monitoring and recording quality
- Warranty: Manufacturer’s limited warranty
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first took the Shure SRH440A headphones out of the box, I was impressed by their modern look and solid build. The design felt fresh but still familiar, reminding me of the original model I had used before. Putting them on, the adjustable and collapsible features made it easy to get a comfortable fit right away. I tested them with my audio interface to hear how they handle studio sound, and the clear, natural audio was noticeable immediately.
Daily Use
Using these headphones every day for mixing and listening to music was a smooth experience. The over-ear design helped block outside noise, which made focusing easier. I appreciated how lightweight and comfortable they were during long sessions, even when wearing them for hours. Whether I was recording vocals or just enjoying my favorite tracks, the sound stayed crisp and detailed without any fatigue.
Key Features in Action
The enhanced frequency response really stood out, giving me a full range of sound from deep lows to clear highs. This made it easier to catch subtle details in my recordings. I also liked how well these headphones worked with different devices — from my studio gear to my portable recorder. The power handling and impedance felt just right, delivering reliable performance no matter what I plugged them into.
Long-Term Performance
After using the SRH440A for several weeks, they still feel as sturdy and comfortable as day one. The build quality seems improved over previous models, and the ear pads haven’t worn down or lost shape. Sound quality remains consistent, which is great for anyone needing dependable headphones for daily studio work. Overall, they’ve proven to be a trustworthy companion for both professional and casual listening.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Shure SRH440A Professional Over-Ear Headphones | Shure SRH840A Professional Over-Ear Headphones | Shure SRH440A Headphones Bundle w/ Mic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Accurate, detailed studio-grade sound with enhanced frequency response, improved durability, and upgraded comfort for reliable monitoring and recording. | Premium, detailed sound with ultra-low harmonic distortion, tailored frequency response for deep bass, clear mids, and extended highs; designed for critical listening and mastering. | Transparent, natural sound signature with detailed accurate audio across an extended range; includes communication cable with microphone and 3-button control for added convenience. |
| Features | New design with the same trusted performance, enhanced frequency response, adjustable & collapsible design, optimized compatibility with all pro audio gear. | Redesigned for professionals demanding more, improved durability and comfort, tailored frequency response for accuracy in mixing and mastering, collapsible design. | Bundle includes RMCH1-UNI communication cable with microphone and 3-button control, locking bayonet connector; improved features over original SRH440. |
| Best For | Users seeking accurate, natural sound for mixing, monitoring, and general studio recording with versatile device compatibility. | Professionals needing critical listening and mastering headphones with precise, detailed sound and minimal distortion. | Users wanting professional monitoring headphones with added communication features for recording and monitoring scenarios. |
In my opinion, this Shure SRH440A Professional Over-Ear Wired Studio Headphones stands out because it combines trusted studio-grade accuracy with a modernized design and enhanced durability, making it ideal for a wide range of professional audio applications. Unlike the SRH840A, which is more tailored for critical mastering, the SRH440A offers a balanced frequency response suitable for both casual and professional use. Additionally, compared to the SRH440A bundle version, it focuses purely on superior audio quality without additional communication features, appealing to those who prioritize sound fidelity above all. If you’re like me and prefer versatile, reliable monitoring headphones that work seamlessly with all audio devices, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on Shure SRH440A Professional Over-Ear Wired Studio Headphones – Monitoring & Recording Headphones with Enhanced Frequency Response, Adjustable & Collapsible Design, Works with All Audio Devices, Black
Overall Satisfaction
Customers generally express high satisfaction with the Shure SRH440A, appreciating its sound quality and comfort, reflected in consistently positive ratings.
Most Praised Features
- Clear and balanced audio with enhanced frequency response ideal for monitoring and recording.
- Comfortable adjustable and collapsible design suitable for long listening sessions and portability.
- Compatibility with a wide range of audio devices, providing versatile usage options.
Common Concerns
- Some users mention the cable could be more durable or longer for certain setups.
- A few customers find the ear pads slightly less comfortable during extended wear.
Who Loves It Most
Audio professionals, musicians, and serious hobbyists who require accurate sound reproduction and reliable build quality appreciate the Shure SRH440A the most, especially for studio monitoring and recording purposes.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $99, the Shure SRH440A is competitively priced in the mid-range segment of professional studio headphones. This price is fair considering its build quality and brand reputation, offering good value compared to higher-priced models with similar features.
Value Features
- Accurate Sound Quality – Delivers crystal-clear, natural audio ideal for mixing and monitoring, justifying the investment for serious users.
- Enhanced Frequency Response – Provides detailed sound across a wide range, enhancing audio precision for professional and casual listening.
- Comfortable & Durable Design – Lightweight, adjustable, and collapsible for extended use and easy portability, adding practical value.
- Universal Compatibility – Works seamlessly with all pro audio gear, saving costs on additional adapters or specialized equipment.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other studio headphones in the $80-$120 range, the SRH440A stands out for its balanced sound profile and sturdy design. It often outperforms similarly priced models in durability and sound accuracy.
Final Verdict
The Shure SRH440A offers excellent value for money, especially for those needing reliable, high-quality sound and comfort in a professional or home studio setup. The slight discount makes it an even better deal.
