Shure SRH440 Review
Professional Studio Headphones
Introduction
In this article, we delve into a detailed analysis of 36,632 user reviews from various languages worldwide to examine the Shure SRH440. This analysis is performed by the RR artificial intelligence and updated daily with newly submitted reviews. The RR AI utilizes a complex algorithm to first scrutinize user reviews for credibility, filtering out unreliable ones. It then proceeds to dissect and evaluate the valuable insights within these reviews, providing users with ratings regarding the features of this product. Based on these assessments, users can make informed decisions about whether this product is suitable for them or not.
Ratings Based on Features
These results are a summary of user reviews of the Shure SRH440. For example, 81% of 13,389 users who have commented on the Value for money of the Shure SRH440 have given positive feedback.
Highlighted Customer Reviews
Showing 1 to 20 of 87 Reviews
Solid performer for $ and under
Shure SRH440 Closed-Back Over-Ear Studio Headphones (New Packaging)
Reviewed by WhiskeyJack on B&H Photo Video
I usually go off of three things as far rating a headphone, and these things are all important to most people. Which start with Build quality(durability to aesthetics), comfort, and Sound quality(from how it is advertised to sound to how well it hits it's mark). The Shure 440 monitoring headphone in my opinion is an excellent headphone for sub $ and I can honestly say it is on par with and or better than the Audio Technica ATH-M50 monitoring headphones. Now I went and plug these in to a decent source running all FLAC files for a more serious listening quality. I used both the CDAC+(ODAC with a separate psu and better isolation) and a Schiit Vali Hybrid amp, a Fostex HP-A3 and the HP-A3 with the Vali. These DACs used are pretty nice sounding sources and both the Fostex's integrated amp and the Vali are more than capable of driving and enhancing the sound quality of the Shure 440. The 440 was packaged well with some decent accessories for being at it's price. It came with a detachable coiled cable, a 1/8 to 1/4th adapter, and a pleater sack to travel with the headphones. The headphones themselves are mostly plastic but do not feel cheap nor are they overly heavy where they are uncomfortable. They have a nice black plastic that has a matte appearance and is not a finger print magnet. The unit looks good has a more compact design for a full size over the ear headphone and could see why people liked Shure's designs.The headphone cups are relatively comfort due to that lack of pinch from the headphone band. I do believe after market pads for this unit would make it above average comfort and even as comfortable as my DT 990s which have more pinch and pressure from the band but are made up with the cups being so spacey and velour earpads. I believe with getting another one of Shure's higher end models ear pads which should fit the 440 model would be for the best in terms of comfort quality. Now I have a big head and these headphones fit fine over it with no pressure and they are light. Now the ear pads are able to fit my slightly above average size but they are not plush enough to my preference. So average on the terms of comfort with stock pads. Sound quality is where I was most surprised to frank I thought they would sound okay and maybe overly neutral and boring at best. Well, I apologize to Shure for doubting their ability to make an affordable and great sounding headphone. The sound stage is not the biggest and especially for a closed headphone you come to expect a cramped feeling with some. This is not the case because of well the 440 does imaging, it excels with this and it makes a hard to resist impression. The bass is solid and with a realistic and more neutral impact(not bass heavy for those who favor it, I suggest DT 770s or for an open phone the Phillips Fidelio X1) I think the mids stick out nicely in my listening of the 440's which is a nice contrast to the DT990s(which are known to be focused on treble, bass, and high mids) Now in comparing the two I headphones, I believe the 440's do a much better and probably more accurate response for monitoring compared to something like the DT 990's. This is to be expected because the 990s is considered a great open headphone for a lively, fun, and open performance. The 440 does have some detail to the treble with string instruments and the like, but this is also cause for them being a tad on the brighter side(still pretty neutral though). Also the DT 990's go for more in the expense region, being more compared to the 940 model from Shure. If you want a more affordable potentially very comfortable, and most importantly a great sounding headphone...well I would definitely recommend the Shure 440 and say if you do not want the extra bass and maybe have a bit more definition and resolution with the treble, and definitely better imaging in general than the ATH-M50 I would opt and recommend the Shure 440 headphone. It is quite good for the amount spent on it, and I believe it could make a lot of people happy especially with their first venture in to higher quality audio. ... More
Very Satisfied
Shure SRH440 Closed-Back Over-Ear Studio Headphones (New Packaging)
Reviewed by kozi on B&H Photo Video
If The ratings allowed, I would give this about 4.7 out of 5 stars. I did a lot of research before selecting these headphones and did so because of stellar reviews on the internet and the Shure reputation. If you like bass, do not buy these. They have a flat response, like a monitor headphone should. They do not artificially amplify any part of the spectrum. I use these for voice and for classical music, so they are perfect for me. They are very comfortable and provide amazing sound quality after a burn-in period of about 50-100 hours. One thing that I never saw in a review but REALLY enjoy about these is they do not have rotatable cups. Rotatable cups are used for pro headphones so that cups can be shared and audio clips discussed between sound engineers. However, I find this feature to be aggravating while putting on the phones. I would buy these above the MDR-V6's and the competition for just this one reason. The detachable cord is a great idea, too, but Shure included the wrong type for most of us. Shure, you can shure make a bundle by selling a straight cord as an accessory. Shure, are you listening? Some of us would pay BIG money to get rid of the aggravation of a coiled cord. Shure? I read a lot of discussion on the internet on the subject of the SRH440 vs. the 840. My take: unless you work in a studio, pick the 440. It is far lighter (181g vs 321g). The typical home user cannot discern the audio difference between the two and the weight makes a big difference in comfort after a few hours. ... More
Quality, Accurate, Great for the Studio
Shure SRH440 Professional Studio Headphones
Reviewed by Mike Jones on Guitar Center
I own two sets of studio headphones. These, and the AKG K240's. I love the AKG K240's, they're light, ultra comfortable, and sound incredible. However, the K240's are semi open, and very quiet without a headphone amp. The Shure SRH440's actually sound better than my AKG's! The sound is completely accurate, and great at reproducing every frequency of my mix. They are kind of heavy, but once on your head, they feel pretty good. However, they do get tiring after a few hours. The ear pieces flip, great for DJing. The closed design also completely blocks out 90% of sound! I highly recommend these for studio use! ... More
State of the art sound
Shure SRH440 Professional Studio Headphones
Reviewed by Ken Brumfield on Guitar Center
The shure SRH440's are a quality set of headphones that i use on a day to day basis, and can compete with the best.I have had a lot of headphones in my time, and have never found a pair like these. The sound quality is phenomenal, it is so crisp and clean, nothing gets in and nothing gets out while you are making music, mastering or mixing. I would recommend these headphones to anyone who wants a professional sound during a studio session or live session.
Great Sound, but not the most comfortable.
Shure SRH440 Professional Studio Headphones
Reviewed by James Pennington on Guitar Center
I bought these at the Guitar Center in Cedar Rapids in late May. I've been using these for about a months now. I got these to replace my ATH M40fs headphones. I think these will last a good several years at least. Soundwise, I feel like the SRH440 is pretty decently balanced between the lows/mids/highs. They have plenty of bass punch for most music stiles, though, they might lack sub-bass below 60 Hz. But I think they have plenty of bass for most work. I do feel they are more punchy or "exciting" sounding than the ATH M40fs I was using. But also a little more accurate. Granted I don't use these to really mix on. I use them to get to a "ballpark-ish" sound, check for unwanted noise/pops/plosives/FX tails, etc. Then fine tune things on my nearfields, and it's worked pretty well for me so far. These headphones seal pretty well. I have a small fan up on a bookshelf, that is almost always running, and I can barely hear it through these headphones. Once the music is playing, I don't hear anything but the music. So these cans would work very nicely for tracking. In an outdoor live recording situation, with me sitting next to the FOH tent about 30 ft. back from the stage front, these headphones let me focus on the sound going into the MTR rather than the sound from the PA, so I feel they block out a good amount of external noise. Structurally, yeah, they're plastic. I think they would survive being dropped on occasion, but probably not getting trampled, smashed, or rolled over with a chair. The detachable cable is a nice thing to have. Comfort on these headphones is an issue. The headband is not adequately padded for their weight. I did remedy this by going to a fabric store, getting some 1" high-density foam, cutting it to about 3/4", and wrapping the foam in some leftover leatherette fabric (which was lined) and this created a suitable cushion for the headphones, and worked really well. I can now wear these for many hours without any discomfort. But, out of the box, they were digging into my head and causing a headache inside of half an hour. If they remodeled the headband to include 1" (or even 3/4") high-density foam, I think I'd give these a 5. I feel these are great cans for the price, and a different flavor compared to the ever popular Sennheiser HD280Pros. Or even the Audio Technica M50. Comparable, but different. ... More
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Comfortable, affordable, good sound
Shure SRH440 Closed-Back Over-Ear Studio Headphones (New Packaging)
Reviewed on B&H Photo Video
The SRH440 are a great set of headphones because of their marriage between sound and price. While they are fairly cheap in relation to many headphones of this size and list of things promised, they deliver a seriously impressive level of both sound and comfort. I especially like this headphones when walking outside in cooler weather, as the ear coverings are both comfortable enough for prolonged listening, and warm enough to keep my ears warm while listening. And yet, in case you were thinking they would overheat your ears when inside, the SRH440 seem to find that nice balance between warm enough and not too hot. Sound is great and clear, just take a little bit of time in the beginning to acclimate yourself to the feel of a big set of headphones, as I was always an in-ear listener. However, the transition time is negligible, and they will feel great in no time at all. Continuing with Shure's history of impressive sound and isolation from the world to ensure clear and excellent listening, the SRH440 headphones block out environmental noise while not completely isolating you from the outside world. As far as circumaural headphones are concerned, few can compare with the SRH440's ability to isolate noise, especially with only little increases in audio volume, to prevent against hearing loss in the future. As far as downsides are concerned, they are obviously not top of the line, as the price would indicate. Yes, the sound is not as clear and perfect as would you could get from a company like Grado, but at the same time, if you can afford $1700 headphones, be my guest. Should you buy it? Depends; do you need headphones, do you prefer in-ear headphones or do you prefer over the headphones? These are certainly great in sound quality, clarity and isolation, along with prolonged listening and comfort. If you want maximum isolation, go for a more expensive set of in-ear headphones. If you want something stylish and want to give your wallet a break, then the SRH440 are a good investment. The fact that they can fold up and fit in your bag, or in the nifty carrying case is a major plus as well. ... More
Great cans
Shure SRH440 Closed-Back Over-Ear Studio Headphones (New Packaging)
Reviewed by David N on B&H Photo Video
Recently bought these headphones as a gift. Did a fair bit of research and test before committing my money on these SRH440. Other headphones looked at were the Sennheiser HD215 where I found it selling at almost 1/2 price in a shop, the HD280Pro, HD445, and the HD25 and its variants. What was really impressive was the build quality of these cans. Yes, I know they have little cables that come out and could get caught and snap off if you are really harsh with them. But that aside, they are very well built compared with the others. They do not clamp as hard as the HD280Pro or HD25 and the padding on the cans were very comfortable and fitted nicely for my ears and head. The isolation was really great as a result. Overall, the construction was exemplary compared with the huge HD215 which on the other hand felt loose and fragile. They can be folded up and store in the supplied bag. The sound (which is even more important) is impressive. Despite that they are 44Ohm compared with the HD215, which is 32Ohm, they are even more efficient. While frequency response is not flat, it is certainly not bass heavy like many others. There is roll off on both ends, but I believe its tonal characteristics makes them well suited for recording and general listening even for long sessions without experiencing fatigue. Compared with Grado SR80, they are more comfortable and less as bright but tonally very pleasant, detailed and a real pleasure to listen to especially if you need to block out environmental noise. The cable is also well built with bayonet locking mechanism and it can be replaced with a straight cord if you don't like the coiled cord. The SRH840s are even better with more bass extension but they do cost twice as much. Well done, Shure! ... More
Stunning sound, stunning headache.
Shure SRH440 Closed-Back Over-Ear Studio Headphones (New Packaging)
Reviewed by Media Professor on B&H Photo Video
I've been in media for 20 years, and have owned a lot of headphones for the studio and on-air booth. I also have reasonably high-end equipment at home, and even drive my office headphones with a separate DAC and amp. So, I'm picky. That said, here's my take on the Shure 440s. First, after a reasonable break-in period, these sound fantastic. Best sounding inexpensive cans I've owned. Period. They give my reference phones at home a good run for their money. Second, overall a nice design. The detachable, replaceable cord is wonderful, the coil is long enough to be usable in large studio sessions where there's distance between me and the board, and the cups isolate nicely. But, wait: there's a caveat here. A huge, 800-pound, angry silverback caveatafter about 45 minutes, your head begins to hurt from the headband. Not an oh, darn, that's annoying hurt, but a son of a gun, I'm getting a migraine from these things digging into the top of my skull hurt. I returned mine. B & H was great about the return, as always; it's why my department has done literally hundreds of thousands of dollars in business with them over the years. The quality of the service is much better than the comfort of these phones. Look elsewhere if you're going to wear your phones for extended periods. Really. ... More
Great Sound, Bad Construction
Shure SRH440 Professional Studio Headphones
Reviewed by Christian Jedlowski on Guitar Center
There are a lot of nice features with these headphones. They fold up rather nicely for storage, the cord is replaceable, and the sound is amazing... however, their plastic construction left much to be desired. Under light use, these would probably be fine, but I was wearing this for 3-4 hours on a daily basis, and the plastic just did not hold up. One day while taking these off, a huge plastic chunk cracked off, which was a piece of the molding holding the hinge for the left ear-piece on. So, when taking these off, I ended up with the left ear-piece hanging on by just the wire. Again, great sound for the price, lots of nice features, but do not expect to have these for a good long while with cheap plastic molding. ... More
Good, balanced, "standard" sound.
Shure Studio Professional Headphones
Reviewed by Musician on Argos
The low end was loud although solid and unmuddled, especially around the 40 to 80Hz range. This may result in trouble controlling these frequencies well, but the good definition allowed for these details to be clearly heard regardless. The 800Hz to around 6kHz range was clear and balanced - A very well projected tone. The 12kHz and upwards range were clear too, but could benefit from an increase in the 17kHz upwards range to help with anyone who is of age. Not a problem with the unit itself! :)
Nice sound for the $
Shure SRH440 Closed-Back Over-Ear Studio Headphones (New Packaging)
Reviewed by Brian A. on B&H Photo Video
It was between these and Sennheiser HD280, and Sony MDR-V6's. I listened them all in the store and noticed very little difference in sound quality-- as would be expected sense they are all $100 closed back studio headphones. For my application (video production-- sometimes wearing them for 8 hours at a time) comfort was key. The Shure 440s gave good crisp highs and enough low end for my taste (bass freaks look else where) in a comfortable design and affordable price.
After A Little Work, Best At Price Point
Shure SRH440 Closed-Back Over-Ear Studio Headphones (New Packaging)
Reviewed by ShureShark on B&H Photo Video
Great sound! After listening through iPod, smart phone, and turntable, the sound does differ between each device, the worst being the iPod. However, they still sound great. At $ bucks these are literally a no-brainer. But beware, this price does have its drawbacks. The comfort of these cans is subpar. After only 30 minutes my skull felt like it was being crushed. But all hope is not lost. B&H stocks Shure SRH940 replacement ear cushions. These are an excellent substitution for the hot, sweaty leather stock ear cushions. Second, buy the Sennheiser 600 headband cushion. After just 30 (well-spent) dollars, the comfort is dramatically improved. This modification easily skyrockets the cans to perfection. ... More
Like hearing for the first time.
Shure SRH440 Closed-Back Over-Ear Studio Headphones (New Packaging)
Reviewed by Audio Student on B&H Photo Video
As a student of audio production, I am always looking for tools that will be extremely useful to me for a long time. I was in need of a good pair of editing headphones and a friend suggested these. I have tried many lower quality headphones that are still fairly decent. These however, blew my mind. The bass response was far more than I expected. Everything sounded very realistic and created a fantastic sound field. These are definitely a good choice for someone who needs good quality sound but might not have the money for the top brand. Another fantastic thing about these headphones is that the cable is detachable. If it breaks, buy a new one. The phones themselves are still just fine. I did not give the product the full five stars only because I believe there is always room for improvement. All in all, I am very glad I chose these phones and anticipate them lasting me a long time. ... More
Great headphones!
Shure SRH440 Professional Studio Headphones
Reviewed by Shepdog on Guitar Center
I got these last week, along with a Vox Headphone Amp and the two sound great together. These headphones are able to capture the low tones of my bass without distortion. I also tried them with my IPod and the music has never sounded better.
great
Shure SRH440 Professional Studio Headphones
Reviewed by ollie on Guitar Center
they are great quality and great for all uses i fault though is the wire gets in the way but it is overall great headphones and i recomend them
Exceptional
Shure Studio Professional Headphones
Reviewed by Harry on Argos
Comfortable, well built and the sound is probably the best I ever heard from any headset, in ear or otherwise. The sound is balanced throughout the spectrum from low bass to mid and to high. These aren’t your average to output of sound these are for studio work and are so responsive, they pick up instruments with clarity. Bought them for my guitar amp and Keyboards and I think they are mind blowing, but after trying them to listen to general music I am blown away.
Great sound quality
Shure Studio Professional Headphones
Reviewed by Billtbodger on Argos
These are fantastic sound quality headphones but heavy to wear and I find they get a bit too warm after an hours wearing, The sound quality is fantastic though
Amazing sound, very comfortable
Shure SRH440 Closed-Back Over-Ear Studio Headphones (New Packaging)
Reviewed by A Bomb on B&H Photo Video
These Shures feel like much more expensive headphones. The materials are top notch. I bought them as an alternative to the ubiquitous Sony pro studio monitors that all us video shooters wear. They cup my ears so perfectly that all I could hear was the camera output, even at a very noisy cheerleading championship. And, they fold. Folding is a bit of a pain as you have to unscrew the removable 1/8 cable...then again, if this cable goes I can replace it.
A great set for the money
Shure SRH440 Closed-Back Over-Ear Studio Headphones (New Packaging)
Reviewed by jjlarvick on B&H Photo Video
I rarely find that I need the best of the best. So, up front I will say these are not the BEST headphones, but for often $200 LESS than a better pair I'd have to say I'm quite pleased.Overall sound quality is great across the frequencies with only the very lows and very highs lacking in comparison to others I've tried. I will mostly be using these as a monitor for in the field video production. I think they'll be wonderful for this. But if you're looking for studio headphones to be worn all day I think the quality and comfort would convince me to get something else. ... More
Awesome Headphones
Shure SRH440 Closed-Back Over-Ear Studio Headphones (New Packaging)
Reviewed by Justin on B&H Photo Video
Super duper comfortable. The input wire is actually 1/8, but it comes with a screw on 1/4 converter, which works perfectly well. The headphones also come with a nice carrying pouch which is nice. Sounds quality is, of course, very nice. I very much like the coiled wire as well. Doesn't get in the way, yet provides good length.
