M-Audio’s only over-ear headphones are a closed-back affair with a removable cord and a storage bag included. While they claim a flat frequency response and excellent sonic isolation, in use the bass is quite boomy and the isolation minimal.

Boomy bass isn’t always a bad thing, of course, and when turned up loud the Q40s deliver a lot of power and supply a huge bottom end, especially considering their closed nature. This can be a bit much for more bass-heavy genres, though.

The mid and treble are flat but truthful in comparison. They’re not compressed away at lower volumes, so this is where the Q40s deliver the best response.

The headphones are comfortable to wear over long periods, with softly padded earpieces that cover your whole ears and enable you to pick out specific sounds easily. Collapsible for portability and with reinforced joints, they feel pretty sturdy, too.

4 Stars