The Astro A40 is a wired headset that is compatible with the latest Xbox One Controllers with a 3.5mm jack. This headset is also compatible with the PC and PS4.
Sound signature is fairly balanced with a slight emphasis on the bass, which means that bass-heavy game or movie sound effects like explosions sound great with these.
Users can switch this headset from a closed back to an open back style my simply removing or re-attaching the magnetic ear cup covers. This affects the headset's sound stage as well as noise isolating qualities.
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Pros
Pro Fairly balanced sound signature with a little extra boost on the low frequencies
This headset has very good overall tonal balance, with just a little emphasis on the bass. The highs are clear and airy while the mids are forward and not muddy. The bass has good power and punch, yet does not overpower the other frequencies.
Explosions and in-game/movie sound effects will definitely sound good with these, yet at the same time these are versatile enough for a wide range of music genres.
Pro Mic produces good voice quality and is detachable
This headset's microphone has good clarity and voice reproduction so voice chat's should not be a problem. Also, the mic can easily be removed from the left ear cup if it is not needed.
Pro Can be switched from closed back style headphones to open back
The headset comes stock as closed back headphones. However, the ear cups' side covers are magnetized and they can be removed completely, converting these headphones to an open-back design. This helps to add extra width and a more natural feel to the sound. This can enhance immersion when gaming or watching movies with this headset.
Pro Stock ear pads are soft and comfortable
The stock ear pads, along with the headband have thick foam material with a fabric surface. This feels soft on the head and helps to minimize heat build-up and sweating when wearing the headset.
Pro Audio cable can easily be removed
This headset's audio cable is not fixed. Instead, a 3.5mm port is on the left ear cup where a standard 3.5mm cable can be connected. This allows for easy storage and handling of the headphones as you can choose to remove the cable if it is not needed. This also means that you can easily switch audio cables if you want one in a specific length, or need to replace your stock cable.
Pro Headphone look, fit and comfort can be customized
The ear cup covers, ear pads and headband cushion can easily be removed. Users can replace these with Astro's Mod Kits which contain ear pads, cushions and/or ear cup covers in different colors and materials.
Cons
Con Can put a bit of weight on the head and neck
At around 360 grams without the cable, this is quite the heavy headset. This can get quite tiring to wear if you use it for long hours.
Con No 7.1 surround sound out of the box
This headset does not come stock with a 7.1 surround feature. You will need to purchase a separate Mix Box (or buy this headset with the Mix Box bundled in) which can add a hefty price increase.