Audio-Technica's ATH-M series is a line of closed-back, studio-quality monitoring headphones and includes models to suit any budget. What all of these headphones have in common is a sturdy construction, a high-resolution sound with a slight emphasis on the bass and treble frequencies, and a circumaural design to ensure a high level of comfort even during longer sessions. The ATH-M models also have relatively low impedance values, which means they can provide a reasonable level of volume even when used with mobile devices that perhaps lack the output power of a headphone amplifier or audio interface. These headphones are additionally suitable for DJs and for use in noisy environments thanks to their good sound isolation.
The ATH-M40X model from Audio-Technica's ATH-M series features 40mm drivers and CCAW coils driven by neodymium magnets, delivering an impressive sound that can easily compete with much more expensive headphones. Unlike its "little" siblings, the ATH-M20X and M30X, the M40X model features a detachable cable, so the user can easily replace the cable if a bad contact occurs or a different cable length is required, and the scope of delivery includes a second 1.2m coiled cable as well as a threaded 6.3mm jack plug adapter. The ATH-M40X headphones are steplessly adjustable, and the earcups are also generously padded and can be swivelled by 90°, allowing them to be set to any desired position.
The ATH-M40X's closed-back design and effective sound isolation make it the perfect companion for noisy recording sessions where - for example - the drum tracks are being recorded in the same room. At the same time, crosstalk is reduced during vocal recordings when the singer has the backing tracks turned up loud on their headphones. Thanks to their linear frequency response, these headphones also cut a fine figure in production and mixing applications. Excellent sound isolation and a good volume level are important for queuing tracks in noisy clubs, so DJs will doubtless also appreciate the ATH-M40X's circumaural design. Those looking for headphones to primarily enjoy listening to music will be pleased with the model's tight bass response and clear treble frequencies, both of which are impressive at this price point.
The Japanese company Audio-Technica was founded in 1962 and at first manufactured affordable phono cartridges. The company has since become acclaimed for a whole range of quality audio products. Audio-Technica released their first headphones in 1974. The company later gained huge popularity among musicians with the release of the AT4060 tube microphone. Audio-Technica focuses on high-quality components at affordable prices. Today, their product rang offers a wide variety of microphones, headphones, and turntables as well as many other accessories.
From musicians to producers to DJs - everyone should be able to find the right headphones in Audio-Technica's ATH-M series, since the models differ in features but not in sound quality. Users looking for a solid and reliable pair of headphones that will be at home in any situation need therefore look no further: Audio-Technica has a solution for every price point, and users can always be sure that they are getting an excellent price-performance ratio.
CCAW voice coils
In loudspeakers as well as headphone drivers, the coil attached to the diaphragm vibrates in a magnetic field. The aim is to make the coil as light as possible so that the diaphragm can oscillate freely and is not slowed down by its own inertia even in the high-frequency range. While a copper coil has the highest inductance, i.e. vibrates particularly strongly in the magnetic field, an aluminium coil weighs less. Audio Technica's CCAW solution stands for Copper-Clad Aluminum Wire. As a compromise, an aluminium wire coated with copper is used in the coil. This makes it possible to create a very light coil with a high vibrational frequency response.