When comparing Astro A50 PS4 vs Audio-Technica ATH-M40x, the Slant community recommends Audio-Technica ATH-M40x for most people. In the question“What are the best headphones?” Audio-Technica ATH-M40x is ranked 17th while Astro A50 PS4 is ranked 42nd. The most important reason people chose Audio-Technica ATH-M40x is:
Sound signature is quite accurate, almost flat. Bass is much more controlled instead of boomy, while there is a slight elevation on the highs, resulting in extra energy and detail up top. These offer a nice middle ground between a fun sound and a more reference/analytical sound signature. This sound quality makes the headphones quite versatile as music enjoyment headphones or studio-use cans.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Solid construction
The A50 is mostly made of quality plastic with a soft touch finish. It can flex well without feeling like it will break. The plastic on the headband and ear cups are complemented by metal rods that add more rigidity to the headset while also giving it a metal accent for a more premium look.
Pro Balanced sound with a slight emphasis on the bass
The sound signature leans more on the neutral side with highs that have good clarity and mids that are full but not forward or recessed. Audio details can easily be heard, and in-game or movie dialogue does not get lost in the mix. The bass is slightly boosted so explosions and gunshots definitely have a lot of kick. The low frequencies do not get out of hand though, so the sound is not muddy in any way.
Pro Enhances soundstage with a surround sound feature
With this feature on, you’ll be able to better tell what direction explosions are happening, or where gunshot sounds are coming from. This can give you an extra edge when gaming competitively as well as make your games more immersive.
Pro Very soft ear pads and headband
The ear pads and headband have very thick foam for cushioning which helps to minimize pressure on the head
Pro Good battery life
From a full charge, these headphones can get up to 15 hours of playback time.
Pro Base station has a lot of functionality
The base station primarily functions as the A50’s stand and charger. The headset magnetically locks into place when on the base, ensuring it charges properly and does not fall off. The base also handles connectivity with audio sources and is the transmitter that communicates with the headset.
Pro Mic is easy to position
The microphone has good clarity. It is attached to the left ear cup and can be pushed upwards when not in use. It is also bendable so you can position it closer to your mouth if needed.
Pro Works with a PC
This headset can save you money if you are looking to improve audio not just on your PS4, but also on your computer. The A50 is compatible with a PC/Mac so you do not need to buy a separate headset.
Pro Fairly neutral sound signature
Sound signature is quite accurate, almost flat. Bass is much more controlled instead of boomy, while there is a slight elevation on the highs, resulting in extra energy and detail up top. These offer a nice middle ground between a fun sound and a more reference/analytical sound signature. This sound quality makes the headphones quite versatile as music enjoyment headphones or studio-use cans.
Pro These have a high quality and durable feel
The M40xs feel solid and are known to be quite durable. The plastics used in the build do not easily flex or make creaks, giving the impression that these can last quite a long time.
Pro Can be used in noisy environments
The over-ear, closed back design along with the thick pleather ear pads can block out quite a lot of ambient noise, and will help users to focus in on the music. These make the headphones great for travel or for mixing/monitoring use.
Pro Comes with two detachable cables
The headphones come with a straight cable and a coiled cable, making them useful in the studio or while walking.
Cons
Con Mic is too sensitive
The A50's mic easily picks up ambient noise and voice pops. This can be annoying for your teammates when using voice chat while playing.
Con Clamping force can be too strong
The headset clamps tightly on the head. While the thick cushioning in the ear pads and headband can minimize the pressure, you might find this uncomfortable if you are sensitive to clamp force.
Con Can feel heavy on the head/neck
The A50 is one of the heaviest wireless headsets at around 380 grams The weight can make your head or neck feel tired quickly.
Con Incompatible with cables from other brands
Only Audio Technica cables can be used with these headphones.