LucidSound LS40 vs Astro A40 TR

The sound signature of this headset is fun as the highs are clear and detailed while the bass has good punch and power to it. Ambient sound effects will definitely pop with this headset, and explosions will have a lot of oomph as well. Users can also customize the sound by switching through the headset's various audio profiles.

The 7.1 surround sound feature helps to improve imaging and sound stage. The sound feels wider and audio sources feel like they are coming from different directions around the user. Not only does this help improve immersion but can also help give the headset's user a better sense of positional audio.

This headset can function as a wireless device when used with the included USB dongle connected to a PC or compatible console. However, this headset can also connect to smartphones and music players via 3.5mm cable for wired mobile use.

When used in wireless mode, this headset has up to 15 hours of playback time which should be enough for a long gaming or music listening session.

The ear pads and headband feature thick foam material which makes them feel real soft and help ease the pressure of the head. The headband also has stitching on the leather surface while the ear pads have a mix of velour and leather which help to prevent heat build-up on the head.

The headset's microphone can easily be plugged-in or removed from the left ear cup. Also, the mic itself is very flexible and can be bent to your preferred position/direction.

Tapping on the the ear cups' outer discs can mute either headphone or chat audio. A dial on the right ear cup allows for audio volume control while there are buttons on the underside of the ear cups to turn the headset on/off or to cycle through EQ profiles.

The headset has an understated and sleek design which gives it a premium look. This is supplemented by the use of metal on the headband and yoke which makes the headset feel solid and gives it a satisfying weight as well.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.