Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Professional Studio Monitor Headphone User Manual

Table of Contents

1. Package Contents
2. Assembling the Headphones
3. Adjusting the Headband
4. Connecting the Detachable Cable
5. Using the 90-Degree Swiveling Earcups
6. Storing and Transporting the Headphones
7. Troubleshooting Tips
8. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Package Contents

• Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
• 1.2 m - 3.0 m (3.9' - 9.8') coiled cable
• 3.0 m (9.8') straight cable
• Protective carrying pouch
• 6.3 mm (1/4") screw-on adapter

2. Assembling the Headphones

Your Audio-Technica ATH-M40x headphones come pre-assembled and ready for use. If you need to replace any parts, such as the earpads or headband, please refer to the manufacturer's website for instructions and replacement parts.

3. Adjusting the Headband

To ensure a comfortable fit, adjust the headband by gently pulling or pushing on the earcups until the headband fits securely on your head. The headband should not be too tight or too loose, and the earcups should fully cover your ears.

4. Connecting the Detachable Cable

1. Choose the cable you wish to use (coiled or straight).
2. Insert the 3.5mm connector of the cable into the jack on the left earcup.
3. Rotate the cable connector clockwise until it locks into place.
4. Connect the other end of the cable to your audio source, such as a smartphone, audio interface, or mixer.
5. If you need to use the 6.3 mm (1/4") screw-on adapter, simply attach it to the 3.5mm connector on the cable.

5. Using the 90-Degree Swiveling Earcups

The earcups on the ATH-M40x headphones can swivel 90 degrees for easy, one-ear monitoring. To swivel the earcups, gently rotate them in the desired direction. This feature is particularly useful for DJs and audio engineers who need to monitor audio with one ear while listening to their environment with the other ear.

6. Storing and Transporting the Headphones

When not in use, store your ATH-M40x headphones in the provided protective carrying pouch. To save space, you can collapse the headphones by folding the earcups inward and placing them into the pouch. Always disconnect the cable before storing the headphones to prevent damage to the cable or connectors.

7. Troubleshooting Tips

• If you experience audio issues or a lack of sound, check that the cable is properly connected to both the headphones and your audio source.
• Ensure the audio source is turned on and the volume is at an audible level.
• Try using a different audio source or cable to determine if the issue is with the headphones or the audio source.
• If the headphones are still not working properly, contact Audio-Technica customer support for further assistance.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use these headphones for gaming?

A: Yes, the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x headphones can be used for gaming. However, they do not have a built-in microphone, so you will need a separate microphone for voice communication.

Q: Are these headphones suitable for use with a smartphone?

A: Yes, the ATH-M40x headphones can be used with a smartphone. Simply connect the 3.5mm connector of the cable to your smartphone's headphone jack. If your smartphone does not have a headphone jack, you may need an adapter.

Q: Can I replace the earpads on these headphones?

A: Yes, the earpads on the ATH-M40x headphones can be replaced. Replacement earpads can be purchased from the Audio-Technica website or authorized dealers.

Q: Do these headphones have active noise cancellation?

A: No, the ATH-M40x headphones do not have active noise cancellation. However, their circumaural design provides excellent passive noise isolation by contouring around the ears.

Q: What is the design of the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Professional Studio Monitor Headphone?
A: The headphone features cutting-edge engineering and robust construction with a circumaural design that contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation in loud environments.

Q: What is the size of the drivers in the headphone?
A: The headphone has 40 millimeter drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils.

Q: Can the earcups swivel?
A: Yes, the headphone has 90 degrees swiveling earcups for easy, one-ear monitoring.

Q: Is the headphone comfortable to wear for long hours?
A: Yes, the headphone features professional-grade earpad and headband material that delivers more durability and comfort.

Q: What accessories are included with the headphone?
A: The headphone comes with two detachable cables (1.2 m - 3.0 m (3.9' - 9.8') coiled cable and 3.0 m (9.8') straight cable), a protective carrying pouch, and a 6.3 mm (1/4") screw-on adapter.

Q: How does the ATH-M40x compare to the ATH-M50x?
A: The ATH-M50x has improved ear cups as well as three interchangeable cables (short, long, coiled) and provides better isolation than the ATH-M40x. Sonically, the ATH-M50x has a flatter response and provides less coloration to the music than the ATH-M40x. The ATH-M40x is a bit more musical and forgiving with consumer-grade gear.

Q: Will the ATH-M40x fit a big head comfortably?
A: The headphone can accommodate a big head comfortably at maximum extension.

Q: Does the headphone provide good noise isolation?
A: Yes, the circumaural design provides excellent sound isolation in loud environments.

Q: How is the headphone's sound quality for classical/acoustic music?
A: The headphone provides natural and sufficiently good sound for classical/acoustic music.

Q: Is the cord detachable, and can I buy a shorter one from a local store?
A: Yes, the cord is detachable. However, the 2.5mm connection on the headphones has a proprietary latch to prevent accidental removal. Audio-Technica offers three cables that work with the ATH-M40x, including a short straight cable that also comes with the ATH-M50x.

Q: How is the headphone for regular use with stereo, iPod, laptop, etc.?
A: The headphone provides good sound quality for regular use with stereo, iPod, laptop, etc. However, it weighs over 8oz., which may become heavy over time.