When comparing Audio-Technica ATH-M40x vs JLab JBuds EPIC, 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 JLab JBuds EPIC is ranked 50th. 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 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.
Pro Great for casual music listening and also for sport use
Sound quality is good enough for enjoying a wide variety of music genres. This comes with the advantage of having sport-related features like special tips for improved fit as well as splash resistance.
Pro Produces deep and forward lows complemented by detailed and airy highs
The low end frequencies are what stand out from the sound signature. Bass goes deep and is pretty forward too, so you can clearly hear and experience the thump from your music.
The highs are also crisp and airy, giving a lot of detail. This combination results in these headphones having a fun sound.
Pro In-line remote allows for control of basic phone/player functions
There is a one-button remote which allows you to play/pause tracks as well as answer/end calls. This can be very convenient when used on the go.
Pro Stays snug in the ears while you are active
Little rings called "Cush Fins" wrap around the earpieces, and give extra grip, and prevent the pieces from falling out. Also, these Cush Fins are quite soft and flexible so they do not have too much of a negative effect to comfort.
Pro In-line remote allows control of basic phone/player functions
There is a one-button remote which allows you to play/pause tracks as well as answer/end calls. This can be very convenient when used on the go.
Pro Included carrying case makes these easy to bring on the go
A fairly large, zip up carrying case comes included and should give these extra protection when taken on the go. You can just chuck this case into your bag without worrying about your headphones getting damaged.
Cons
Con Incompatible with cables from other brands
Only Audio Technica cables can be used with these headphones.
Con Muddy mids
Due to the bass being quite prominent, the mids take a negative hit, as the bass gives the mids a muddy sound. Guitars and male vocals will not sound very clear at times.
Con Wearing these while on the move can be distracting
When the wires move or brush on your clothes, the rattling sound can be transmitted to the earpieces. This can be quite annoying.