Headsets and headphones / Compare

Audio-Technica ATH-M40x vs Sennheiser HD 480 PRO

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Product A: Audio-Technica

ATH-M40x

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B

Product B: Sennheiser

HD 480 PRO

56 of 161 known

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Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

AAudio-Technica ATH-M40x

BSennheiser HD 480 PRO

General

4 of 8 differ

Series

M-Series7Press articlemusicradar.com/news/tech/namm-2014-audio-technica-reveals-new-m-series-headphones-591670Read 23 October 2026Describes the ATH-M40x as part of the overhauled M-Series range.

4001Press releasenewsroom.sennheiser.com/sennheiser-launches-the-closed-back-hd-480-pro-headphones-cmho7qRead 23 October 2026Maker explicitly places both HD 480 PRO and HD 490 PRO at the top of the 400 series.

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

ATH-M40x2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Model number (型番): ATH-M40x

700499, 7005002Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Page 2 base and Plus product variants. Identical headphone hardware, carrying container differs.

GTIN / EAN

49613101254242Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026JAN code (JANコード) 4961310125424

4044155283983, 40441552839903Retailer pagesennheiser.pl/o/hd-480-proRead 23 October 2026Base 700499 EAN 4044155283983. Plus EAN is separately sourced.7Retailer pagesennheiser.pl/o/hd-480-pro-plusRead 23 October 2026Plus product 700500 EAN 4044155283990.

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

January 20147Press articlemusicradar.com/news/tech/namm-2014-audio-technica-reveals-new-m-series-headphones-591670Read 23 October 2026Published 23 January 2014. It reproduces the maker press release dated 20-01-2014: the ATH-M20x, ATH-M30x, ATH-M40x and ATH-M50x make their debut at Winter NAMM 2014. The month is stored, as for the sibling models.

21 April 20261Press releasenewsroom.sennheiser.com/sennheiser-launches-the-closed-back-hd-480-pro-headphones-cmho7qRead 23 October 2026

Status

Available1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Sold on the maker US store at $109.00 on the access date. The Japanese page marks the model as production ended (生産完了), so it is a Japan-only end of production.

Available4Maker product pagesennheiser.com/en-de/catalog/products/headphones/hd-480-pro/hd-480-pro-700499Read 23 October 2026Current maker page offers the exact model through dealers.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$1396Press articleprosoundweb.com/audio-technica-introduces-next-generation-m-series-headphonesRead 23 October 2026Article of 7 February 2014: the models are available in February 2014 at these U.S. MSRPs: ATH-M20x $69, ATH-M30x $99, ATH-M40x $139, ATH-M50x $239. Radio World of 25 February 2014 gives the same list. SoundGuys lists an MSRP of $99 for the ATH-M40x, which matches the ATH-M30x price and is not used.

$4791Press releasenewsroom.sennheiser.com/sennheiser-launches-the-closed-back-hd-480-pro-headphones-cmho7qRead 23 October 2026US launch MSRP 479 for PRO and 519 for Plus. SoundGuys explicitly explains that 399/439 are MAP prices and not MSRP.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

€3995Press releasecdn.uc.assets.prezly.com/d8d762a7-6ede-474a-89f0-5f76d3521856/-/inline/no/Sennheiser%20HD%20480%20PRO%20closed-back%20headphones.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 5 EUR 399 MSRP for PRO and EUR 439 for Plus. Published European prices. VAT not separately itemized.

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

Not available

Not available

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black8Retailer pagethomannmusic.com/audio_technica_ath_m40_x.htmRead 23 October 2026Thomann spec table (item 331904): Colour Black.

Black6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sennheiser/hd-480-proRead 23 October 2026Public variants section explicitly says one Black colour.

Segment

Studio1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026The perfect studio headphones for professional tracking, mixing and monitoring.

Studio4Maker product pagesennheiser.com/en-de/catalog/products/headphones/hd-480-pro/hd-480-pro-700499Read 23 October 2026Professional closed-back studio headphone for monitoring, recording, producing and mixing.

Design

1 of 7 differ

Form factor

Over-ear1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Over-ear wired headphones with a circumaural design.

Over-ear2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Page 1 circumaural.

Ear cup enclosureiClosed, open or semi-open acoustic enclosure. This does not describe how the headset folds.

Closed1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Type Closed-back dynamic

Closed2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Page 1 acoustic principle.

Wearing style

Headband1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Headband headphones with 90 degree swiveling earcups and a collapsible design.

Headband8Owner's manualassets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD_480_PRO_PRO+Plus_Quick_Guide_02_2026.pdf/18ec84663e2511f1824dc609655f9294Read 23 October 2026Page 2 wearing and headband adjustment diagrams.

FoldingiFlat means the ear cups rotate flat. Inward means the ear cups fold toward the headband.

Flat and inward1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Features: 90 degree swiveling earcups and collapsible for space-saving portability. The Japanese page describes a 90 degree flip mechanism and a folding mechanism, and the manual shows the swivel housing and the folded position. The value follows the ATH-M50x entry, which has the same mechanism.4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 23 October 2026The model chart gives the ATH-M40x items B, C, F and G. G is the folded position, with the text that the headphones can be folded for storage.

Flat9Measurementdiyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/measurements/brands-s-se/hd480-proRead 23 October 2026Reviewer explicitly says headband does not collapse and cups fold flat in both directions.

Swivelling ear cupsiEar cups can rotate relative to the headband. Tilting alone does not count.

Yes1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Features: 90 degree swiveling earcups for easy, one-ear monitoring. The Japanese page gives 90 degrees forward and 15 degrees backward.4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 23 October 2026Part names show the swivel housing.

Yes10Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-480-pro-review-155534Read 23 October 2026Design section explicitly describes swivelling cups.

RGB lighting

Not available

Not available

Lighting zonesiNumber of independently controllable lighting areas across both ear cups.

Not available

Not available

Drivers and sound

7 of 20 differ

Driver type

Dynamic1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Type Closed-back dynamic3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Type Closed-back dynamic

Dynamic2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Page 1.

Driver sizeiDiameter of the largest sound driver. Do not use the microphone capsule diameter.

40mm1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Driver Diameter 40 mm3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Driver Diameter 40 mm

38mm2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Page 1 transducer diameter.

Drivers per sideiNumber of sound-producing transducers in one side, excluding microphones.

Not available

Not available

Diaphragm material

Not available

Not available

Magnet

Neodymium1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Magnet Neodymium3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Magnet Neodymium

Neodymium2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Page 1 features.

Frequency response (wired or passive)iPublished acoustic range for wired listening, or the maker’s single range when no mode is distinguished. Power state and test standard belong in the source note.

Min15 HzMax24 kHz1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Frequency Response 15 - 24,000 Hz3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Frequency Response 15 - 24,000 Hz

Min3 HzMax28.7 kHz2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Page 1 transmission range at -10 dB.

Wireless audio transmission bandiFrequency range of audio transmitted over the wireless connection, not the acoustic response of the driver. Codec, sampling rate and bitrate conditions belong in the source note. When the maker gives a range per codec, the widest range is stored and its codec goes in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Impedance (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off value for a passive analog connection when the maker publishes both powered and passive values. Note the power state and test frequency.

35Ω1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Impedance 35 ohms3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Impedance 35 ohms

130Ω2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Page 1 at 1 kHz.

Sensitivity (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off figure when both powered and passive values exist. The power or voltage reference, test distance and frequency belong in the source note.

98dB1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Sensitivity 98 dB. The Japanese page gives 98 dB/mW.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Sensitivity 98 dB

107dB2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Page 1 107 dB SPL at 1 kHz/1 Vrms. Also 98 dB SPL at 1 kHz/1 mW.

Sensitivity referenceiPublished power or voltage reference for sensitivity. Do not assume 1 mW when the source gives only a dB value.

Per 1 mW2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Published as 98 dB/mW (出力音圧レベル 98dB/mW)

Per 1 V2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Page 1 1 Vrms reference.

THD (claimed)iPublished distortion figure or numerical upper bound. The source note states any less-than sign and test level.

Not available

0.5%2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Page 1 less than 0.5% at 1 kHz and 100 dB SPL. Stored bound.

Max input power

1,600mW1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Maximum Input Power 1,600 mW at 1 kHz3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Maximum Input Power 1,600 mW at 1 kHz

300mW2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Page 1 power rating for 100 hours with IEC 60268 noise.

Max digital audio sample rateiHighest supported digital audio sample rate over a USB cable or wireless dongle. This is not the microphone rate or acoustic frequency response.

Not available

Not available

Max digital audio bit depthiHighest published digital playback bit depth over a USB cable or wireless dongle.

Not available

Not available

DAC

Not available

Not available

Personalised soundiA manufacturer-supported hearing test or ear scan creates a device sound profile tailored to the listener. Generic equalizer adjustments do not count.

Not available

Not available

Onboard EQiCustom playback EQ profiles stored in the headset and applied without the host app running. Note supported active connections. Receiver-only or software-only EQ does not count.

Not available

Not available

Custom EQ bandsiNumber of bands in the custom playback equalizer. Microphone EQ bands are excluded.

Not available

Not available

EQ presets

Not available

Not available

Volume limit

Not available

Not available

Spatial audio

None of 3 known

Spatial audio supportiNamed headset or host spatial-audio systems that the maker or reviewer explicitly supports. A platform feature may require compatible hardware, software or a separate licence.

Not available

Not available

Spatial audio licence includediA paid spatial-audio licence is bundled or embedded. Compatibility with a separately purchased app does not count.

Not available

Not available

Head tracking

Not available

Not available

Noise cancelling

0 of 10 differ

Active noise cancelling

No1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Passive wired studio headphones with no electronics.

No10Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-480-pro-review-155534Read 23 October 2026Noise isolation section explicitly says no active noise cancellation.

ANC typeiFeedforward uses outside microphones. Feedback uses inside microphones. Hybrid uses both. Voice-call noise filtering is separate.

Not available

Not available

ANC microphonesiTotal microphones used for active playback noise cancellation across both sides. Do not substitute the total physical or voice microphone count.

Not available

Not available

Adaptive ANCiNoise cancellation automatically changes with the environment or fit. Manually choosing a level does not count.

Not available

Not available

ANC levelsiNumber of adjustable cancellation strength steps. Off and transparency modes are excluded.

Not available

Not available

ANC attenuation (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Transparency mode

Not available

Not available

Adjustable transparency

Not available

Not available

Conversation detectioniAudio pauses or lowers automatically when the wearer speaks. Voice assistant activation does not count.

Not available

Not available

Wind noise reduction

Not available

Not available

Measured

3 of 21 differ

Frequency response notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Follows the SoundGuys studio preference curve closely. Deviations in the sub-bass and between 200 and 600 Hz. Bass is audible but subdued, the lower mids get a modest boost at 100 to 200 Hz and the treble is pleasantly emphasized.9Measurementsoundguys.com/audio-technica-ath-m40x-review-1494Read 23 October 2026SoundGuys lab review, byline dated 31 January 2025, against its studio headphone preference curve. The graphs are script charts, so the text is the source: closely follows the curve with deviation in the sub-bass and in the 200 to 600 Hz midrange, bass subdued, lower mids boosted at 100 to 200 Hz, treble pleasantly emphasized.

RTINGS measured a response close to its balanced target, with added bass warmth, balanced mids and a slightly rolled-off treble range.6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sennheiser/hd-480-proRead 23 October 2026Public Audio Reproduction Accuracy section. Test bench 2.3. Wired stock headphone. Exact rig, playback level and test settings are protected and remain unknown. No hidden numeric results used.

Bass amountiReviewer’s bass deviation from its stated target. Positive is more bass. Target and test method belong in the source note.

Not available

1dB6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sennheiser/hd-480-proRead 23 October 2026Guest-visible summary beneath product photograph says Slightly Emphasized (1 dB), confirmed visually in browser. RTINGS target, test bench 2.3. Exact rig and settings not public. Detailed locked results are not used.

Treble amountiReviewer’s treble deviation from its stated target. Positive is more treble. Target and test method belong in the source note.

Not available

-1dB6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sennheiser/hd-480-proRead 23 October 2026Guest-visible summary beneath product photograph says Balanced (-1 dB), confirmed visually in browser. RTINGS target, test bench 2.3. Exact rig and settings not public.

Deviation from targetiReviewer’s full-range error from its target curve. Do not substitute a regional bass or treble error.

Not available

Not available

Consistency between fittingsiReviewer’s standard deviation across repeated fittings. Test rig and fitting procedure belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Harmonic distortioniIndependently measured harmonic distortion, with test level and method in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Sound leakageiIndependently measured leakage at 30 cm. Playback level and method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Measured noise isolationiIndependently measured attenuation. Positive values mean more noise reduction. ANC state, rig and frequency bands belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Noise isolation (measured, best)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Passive isolation (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic quality notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic low-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic high-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic speech-to-noise ratioiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured latencyiEnd-to-end latency measured by a reviewer for a specific connection, platform and codec. Firmware, method and operating mode belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth latency (measured, worst)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

2.4 GHz latency (measured, worst)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured battery lifeiReviewer’s continuous playback test. State the connection, ANC and lighting where known. Unknown settings stay omitted and are described in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Battery life (measured, max)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Clamping forceiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Weight (measured)iIndependently weighed headset. A review that repeats the maker’s number does not qualify. Cable and microphone inclusion belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Microphone

0 of 16 differ

MicrophoneiMain microphone used for speech. Secondary internal microphones may be described in the source note.

None1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Wired studio headphones with no microphone.

None6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sennheiser/hd-480-proRead 23 October 2026Public office and wired gaming verdicts explicitly say no built-in microphone.

Microphone element

Not available

Not available

Microphone pickup patterniUse the maker’s exact named pattern. Unidirectional does not establish whether the capsule is cardioid, supercardioid or hypercardioid.

Not available

Not available

Voice microphonesiTotal microphones used for voice pickup or beamforming across both sides. ANC-only microphones are excluded.

Not available

Not available

Total microphonesiEvery physical microphone across the headset, including call, ANC and calibration microphones. Shared microphones count once. Excludes microphones in charging cases or receivers, and vibration sensors. Use an explicitly published physical total, never a sum of overlapping role counts.

Not available

Not available

Mic frequency responseiAcoustic microphone response, not its digital sampling rate. Connection-specific ranges belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic sensitivityiPublished microphone sensitivity. Reference such as dBV/Pa or dBFS, frequency and distance belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic signal-to-noiseiPublished microphone signal-to-noise ratio. Minimum or typical conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic sample rateiExplicitly published digital microphone capture or speech sampling rate. State the audio route in the source note, or say it is unpublished. Internal capture does not prove the effective rate on every connection. Acoustic bandwidth, playback rate and generic microphone-chip capability do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Mic noise reductioniProcessing that removes noise from transmitted speech. Playback ANC and a directional microphone alone do not count.

Not available

Not available

Flip to mute

Not available

Not available

Mute button

Not available

Not available

Mute indicatoriPublished indication of microphone mute. mechanical_marker is a visible physical marker showing the microphone's mute-switch position. LED options require an electronic light. The in-line controller option is for a mute light on a cable remote.

Not available

Not available

Sidetone

Not available

Not available

Adjustable sidetone

Not available

Not available

Foam microphone windscreeniA foam cover for the voice microphone. An internal metal mesh pop filter does not count.

Not available

Not available

Connectivity

1 of 20 differ

Audio connectionsiConnections that carry playback audio. Charging or firmware USB alone does not count as USB audio.

Analog1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Wired headphones with detachable analog cables.

Analog10Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-480-pro-review-155534Read 23 October 2026Connection section describes passive analog mini XLR to TRS cable.

Analog source plugsiAnalog plug(s) supplied for the source device, including adapters. The headset-side jack is listed separately.

3.5 mm TRS, 6.35 mm2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Plug: 6.3 mm standard and 3.5 mm mini, gold-plated stereo 2-way (プラグ φ6.3mm標準/φ3.5mmミニ 金メッキステレオ2ウェイ)

3.5 mm TRS, 6.35 mm10Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-480-pro-review-155534Read 23 October 2026Explicit 3.5 mm TRS plug threaded for supplied 6.3 mm adapter.

Cable connector on headsetiConnection used by the playback cable at the headset. A fixed cable is not replaceable through a headset jack.

Proprietary2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Detachable cords with a bayonet lock mechanism (着脱コード(バヨネット式ロック機構)). Read as a maker-specific twist-lock connector, as for the ATH-M50x.

Mini XLR10Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-480-pro-review-155534Read 23 October 2026One mini XLR port on each cup. Cable connects to either side.

Longest included cableiLength of the longest supplied cable, including charging and dongle cables. Individual cable lengths are listed in Cables included.

3m1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Cable: detachable 3.0 m (9.8 ft) straight cable, the longest of the two included cables. The coiled cable runs 1.2 m to 3.0 m.

3m2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Page 1 both bundles include the same 3 m coiled cable. Optional straight and balanced cables excluded.

Headset USB plug or portiUSB plug or port on the headset or its included wired audio adapter. A charging-only USB port can appear here.

Not available

Not available

Audio over USB-C cableiPlayback through a USB-C cable or included wired USB-C audio adapter. A charging-only USB-C port does not count.

Not available

Not available

Passive wired listeningiAnalog playback works with the headset powered off or its battery empty. An active analog converter that needs headset power does not count.

Yes1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Passive dynamic headphones with no battery, so analog playback needs no power.

Yes10Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-480-pro-review-155534Read 23 October 2026Passive analog playback directly from MacBook Pro or audio interface with no headphone power.

Wireless receiveriDedicated wireless audio receiver or dongle. A wired USB sound card does not count.

None1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Wired headphones with no wireless parts.

None6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sennheiser/hd-480-proRead 23 October 2026Public wireless gaming section explicitly says cannot be used wirelessly.

Wireless receiver connectoriPhysical USB connector on the receiver. Supplied extension cables and adapters are explained in the source note. Both means two native connector types.

Not available

Not available

Wireless range (claimed)iMaker’s advertised wireless range. Connection and indoor or outdoor conditions belong in the source note. Measured distance is not stored here.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth codecsiNamed Bluetooth audio codecs supported by this exact model. Host, firmware and operating-mode restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

LE AudioiLE Audio playback support. Bluetooth Low Energy for app control alone does not count.

Not available

Not available

AuracastiAuracast broadcast audio support. Required phone, firmware and app conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth multipointiCan remain connected to multiple Bluetooth source devices at once. Mixing Bluetooth with a proprietary dongle is a separate field. A maker's dual connection to two Bluetooth devices at once counts.

Not available

Not available

Multipoint devicesiNumber of Bluetooth source devices connected at once, not the number remembered for later pairing.

Not available

Not available

Paired devices remembered

Not available

Not available

Mixes 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth audioiPlays both wireless audio streams at the same time. Automatic switching or Bluetooth standby does not count.

Not available

Not available

Fast pairing

Not available

Not available

Base station

Not available

Not available

Latency

None of 2 known

Low latency modeiA selectable mode intended to reduce audio delay. A low-latency connection without a distinct mode does not count.

Not available

Not available

Claimed latencyiMaker’s claimed delay for the stated connection and mode. Minimum claims and host restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Compatibility

2 of 3 differ

Compatible platformsiPlatforms with a documented audio path. This does not imply every connection or microphone function works. Platform editions must be checked individually.

Not available

macOS10Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-480-pro-review-155534Read 23 October 2026Reviewer expressly reports playback directly from a MacBook Pro headphone socket. Other host platforms are not inferred from a generic analog connector.

Connection per platformiOnly explicitly documented playback paths for the exact model. Microphone support is separate. Leave unknown microphone support omitted. An Xbox and a PlayStation edition of one headset can connect differently, so it is per variant.

AAudio-Technica ATH-M40x

Not available

BSennheiser HD 480 PRO

Platform	Connection	Microphone works
macOS	Analog	No

Source6Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/sennheiser/hd-480-proRead 23 October 2026Public verdict confirms no microphone. No speech input is possible through the supplied TRS cable.10Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-480-pro-review-155534Read 23 October 2026Connection section directly tested MacBook Pro analog playback. RTINGS separately confirms no microphone.

Official licence

Not available

Not available

Battery and charging

0 of 13 differ

Battery capacityiRated capacity of one headset battery. Do not use case, receiver or total multi-battery capacity.

Not available

Not available

Swappable batteryiBattery can be exchanged by the user as part of normal operation. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

Not available

Not available

Batteries includediNumber of headset batteries supplied, including the one already installed.

Not available

Not available

Claimed battery lifeiMaker’s maximum playback time per stated connection, codec, ANC, spatial audio and lighting settings. Name the spatial processing mode and other conditions in the source note. Unknown settings stay omitted.

Not available

Not available

Battery life (claimed, max)

Not available

Not available

Battery life with ANC (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Battery life without ANC (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Charging port

None1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Passive wired headphones with no battery or charging port.

None8Owner's manualassets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD_480_PRO_PRO+Plus_Quick_Guide_02_2026.pdf/18ec84663e2511f1824dc609655f9294Read 23 October 2026Complete passive analog setup has no headphone power or charging connection.

Full charge timeiPublished time to fully charge a depleted headset. In-use charging can take longer.

Not available

Not available

Quick charge timeiCharge duration in the maker’s quick-charge claim. Read together with Quick charge playback.

Not available

Not available

Quick charge playbackiPlayback gained from Quick charge time. Charger power, codec, volume and ANC conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Use while charging

Not available

Not available

Charging dock or stand

Not available

Not available

Controls

0 of 6 differ

Controls

Not available

Not available

Volume control

None1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026No volume control on the headphones or the supplied cables.

None13Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1947521-REG/sennheiser_700499_hd_480_pro_professional.htmlRead 23 October 2026Exact 700499 specification table says Built-In Controls: No.

Game and chat mixiBalances separate game and chat audio streams. Mixing Bluetooth and dongle source volume alone does not count. Supported platforms belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Remappable controlsiOn-device button, touch or dial functions can be reassigned. Changing EQ alone does not count.

Not available

Not available

Wear detection

Not available

Not available

Voice assistant

Not available

Not available

Comfort and build

7 of 11 differ

Headband type

Padded2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026New earpad and head pad (ヘッドパッド) materials for high durability, so the headband has a head pad.

Padded8Owner's manualassets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD_480_PRO_PRO+Plus_Quick_Guide_02_2026.pdf/18ec84663e2511f1824dc609655f9294Read 23 October 2026Page 2 removable headband cushion.

Headband material

Not available

Steel with plastic parts and velour padding9Measurementdiyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/measurements/brands-s-se/hd480-proRead 23 October 2026Headband paragraph identifies steel, plastic insert and ends, removable velour-covered foam padding.

Frame material

Not available

Steel9Measurementdiyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/measurements/brands-s-se/hd480-proRead 23 October 2026Headband paragraph explicitly steel.

Ear cup material

Plastic10Reviewsonarworks.com/soundid-reference/blog/reviews/ath-m40x-studio-headphone-reviewRead 23 October 2026Sonarworks review of 27 May 2019: the ear cups are plastic and seem of lower quality than the ATH-M50x.

Plastic with aluminium covers10Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-480-pro-review-155534Read 23 October 2026Use section explicitly matte plastic cups. Outer cover material supplied by exact headphonecheck review.11Reviewheadphonecheck.com/test/sennheiser-hd-480-pro-plusRead 23 October 2026Browser review calls the outer cover black aluminium. SoundGuys describes the cup body as matte plastic.

Ear pad material

Synthetic leather10Reviewsonarworks.com/soundid-reference/blog/reviews/ath-m40x-studio-headphone-reviewRead 23 October 2026Sonarworks review: the ear pads are artificial leather (pleather). SoundGuys also calls the pads synthetic.

Velour with synthetic leather sides11Reviewheadphonecheck.com/test/sennheiser-hd-480-pro-plusRead 23 October 2026Recording ear pads have synthetic leather sides and soft velour contact surface.

Replaceable ear pads

Yes2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Sold separately (別売): replacement ear pads HP-M40x.5Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/p52521_mseries_earpad_replacement.pdfRead 23 October 2026The instruction lists the ATH-M40x among the models and tells the user to remove the existing earpad by pulling it off.

Yes8Owner's manualassets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD_480_PRO_PRO+Plus_Quick_Guide_02_2026.pdf/18ec84663e2511f1824dc609655f9294Read 23 October 2026Page 2 ear cushion replacement instructions. RTINGS wording about no swappable pad design refers to the lack of two supplied acoustic pad choices.

Ear pad attachmentiHow a replacement ear pad attaches to the ear cup, not how the decorative outer cover attaches. A press-fit or snap-on pad counts as clip.

Stretch-over5Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/p52521_mseries_earpad_replacement.pdfRead 23 October 2026Instruction P52521 for HP-EP replacement earpads names the ATH-M40x. Step 2: slide the new earpad's flange into the slot of the earcup. Step 3: gently stretch the flange over the slot until the pad is securely in place.

Clip8Owner's manualassets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD_480_PRO_PRO+Plus_Quick_Guide_02_2026.pdf/18ec84663e2511f1824dc609655f9294Read 23 October 2026Page 2 shows fastening ring snapped into place with a click.

Ear pad openingiUsable opening inside an ear pad, excluding the outer cushion. Depth is the internal space between pad surface and driver cover.

Not available

Height60mm9Measurementdiyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/measurements/brands-s-se/hd480-proRead 23 October 2026Inner opening height is 60 mm in both prose and table. Width conflicts at 45 versus 42 mm. Front depth conflicts at 24 versus 25 mm and rear is 28 mm. Width and scalar depth omitted.

Ear tips included

Not available

Not available

Dust and water rating

Not available

Not available

User-replaceable parts

Ear pads (HP-M40x), Coiled cable 1.2 m, Straight cable 3.0 m2Maker product pageaudio-technica.co.jp/product/ATH-M40xRead 23 October 2026Sold separately (別売): replacement ear pads HP-M40x, coiled cord (detachable) 1.2 m and straight cord (detachable) 3.0 m.

Cable, Ear pads, Headband pad, Dust protection8Owner's manualassets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD_480_PRO_PRO+Plus_Quick_Guide_02_2026.pdf/18ec84663e2511f1824dc609655f9294Read 23 October 2026Page 1 cable detaches. Page 2 shows changing headband, ear cushion and dust protection.

Software

None of 3 known

Companion app

Not available

Not available

App platforms

Not available

Not available

User firmware updates

Not available

Not available

Dimensions and weight

2 of 2 differ

Headset weightiPublished headset mass without detachable cable or microphone when stated. A fixed cable remains included. Any unqualified maker weight is identified in the source note.

240g(8.5 oz)1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Weight 240 g (8.5 oz), without cable and connector3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026PDF page 6: Weight 240 g (8.5 oz), without cable and connector8Retailer pagethomannmusic.com/audio_technica_ath_m40_x.htmRead 23 October 2026Thomann lists 241 g without cable and 300 g with cable, which agrees with the maker 240 g without cable.

272g(9.6 oz)2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Page 1 explicitly without cable.

Headset dimensionsiBody size with headband upright and ear cups in their normal wearing position. Width is across the head, height is top to bottom, and depth is front to back. Folded or flat-swivel dimensions are not substituted.

Not available

Width185Height190Depth95mm(7.3 × 7.5 × 3.7 in)2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Page 2 normal wearing-position drawing viewed visually. Width 185, height 190 and depth 95 mm.

Certifications

1 of 3 differ

Hi-Res Audio

Not available

Not available

Communication certifications

Not available

Not available

FCC ID

Not available

Not available

Other certifications

RoHS (2011/65/EU)3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026Declaration of Conformity on PDF page 9 covers ATH-M20x/30x/40x/50x and lists RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and EN50581:2012. This is manufacturer self-declaration, not independent certification.

Not available

In the box

2 of 3 differ

In the box

Detachable coiled cable 1.2 m, extends to about 3.0 m, Detachable straight cable 3.0 m, 6.3 mm (1/4 inch) screw-on adapter, Protective carrying pouch1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Specifications: Accessories included: protective carrying pouch and 6.3 mm (1/4 inch) screw-on adapter. Cable: two interchangeable cables, a detachable 1.2 m to 3.0 m coiled cable and a detachable 3.0 m straight cable.

HD 480 PRO headphones, 3 m coiled cable, 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm jack adapter, PRO headphone bag (HD 480 PRO), Travel case (HD 480 PRO Plus), Quick Guide, Safety Guide2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Pages 1 and 2 give exact bundle contents. Adapter is shown in quick guide page 1. Variant rows list each complete bundle.8Owner's manualassets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD_480_PRO_PRO+Plus_Quick_Guide_02_2026.pdf/18ec84663e2511f1824dc609655f9294Read 23 October 2026Page 1 shows 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm screw-on adapter and distinct bag/case bundles.

Cables includediSupplied playback, charging, dongle and adapter cables. A permanently attached headset cable is included and named as fixed.

AAudio-Technica ATH-M40x

Type	Length (m)	Count
Coiled cable, detachable, extends to 3.0 m	1.2	1
Straight cable, detachable	3	1

Source1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Cable: detachable 1.2 m to 3.0 m coiled cable and detachable 3.0 m straight cable. The Japanese page gives the coiled cable as 1.2 m, about 3 m when extended.4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 23 October 2026The model chart gives the ATH-M40x a 3.0 m detachable straight cable (B) and a 3.0 m detachable coiled cable (C).

BSennheiser HD 480 PRO

Type	Length (m)	Count
Mini XLR to 3.5 mm TRS coiled cable	3	1

Source2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Both bundles include the same 3 m coiled cable. Current spec supersedes US launch wording rounded to 9 feet.

Carrying caseiSupplied carrying case or pouch. A retail carton does not count as a carrying case.

Soft1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026Accessories included: protective carrying pouch

Soft2Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Reference base bundle includes PRO headphone bag. Plus row overrides with hard travel case.

Links

Not compared

Product page

www.audio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40x1Maker product pageaudio-technica.com/en-us/ath-m40xRead 23 October 2026

www.sennheiser.com/en-de/catalog/products/headphones/hd-480-pro/hd-480-pro-7004994Maker product pagesennheiser.com/en-de/catalog/products/headphones/hd-480-pro/hd-480-pro-700499Read 23 October 2026

Spec sheet

docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdf3Maker spec sheet (PDF)docs.audio-technica.com/eu/DOC_ATH-M20x_30x_40x_50x.pdfRead 23 October 2026Official technical construction file TCF ATTWCE-HP140318001 dated 2014-03-18. The ATH-M40x table is on PDF page 6. Image-only PDF, read visually.

assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff52Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD+480+PRO_HD+480+PRO+Plus_Product_Specification_v1.1_EN.pdf/524cd7ae3d4611f19742de7f3bf76ff5Read 23 October 2026Current linked filename says v1.1. Served document pages are printed V1.0.

Manual

www.audio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdf4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 23 October 2026Operating instructions for ATH-M50x, ATH-M40x, ATH-M30x and ATH-M20x. PDF page 2 is in English.

assets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD_480_PRO_PRO+Plus_Quick_Guide_02_2026.pdf/18ec84663e2511f1824dc609655f92948Owner's manualassets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD_480_PRO_PRO+Plus_Quick_Guide_02_2026.pdf/18ec84663e2511f1824dc609655f9294Read 23 October 2026Quick guide 02/26, 402216/A03. Both pages read.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

1 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

1year4Owner's manualaudio-technica.co.jp/pdf/support/ATH-M20x-50x_UM.pdfRead 23 October 2026Japanese warranty certificate on PDF page 1: one year from purchase. This is Japan coverage, not a global warranty claim.

2years12Owner's manualassets.sennheiser.com/download/assets/HD_480_PRO_PRO+Plus_Safety+Guide_02_2026.pdf/791ca6943efd11f1a6b54aba567159dbRead 23 October 2026Manufacturer declarations grant 24 months. German and English sections. Australia/New Zealand paragraph repeats the same base term. Statutory rights excluded.

Both are also in the API. Back to all headsets and headphones.