Review on Shure SRH440 Professional Studio Headphones by Dana Jones

The Shure SRH440 headphones are solid and well made overall. Based on the experience of many other reviewers, I found the ear pads and headband quite uncomfortable (the headband started pressing on my head almost immediately). I've already replaced the earcups with Shure SRH840 models (available from Revain for $14.49) and they offer a much more comfortable fit. I also ordered the Replacement Clip-On Leatherette Headband Comfort Cushion (not sold by Shure but also available from Revain for $8.95). Problem is, my $99 headphones now cost me $125 including shipping. What do you get for $125? Pros: * Quality construction and durability * Fairly accurate separation between instruments and decent vocal response * Decent soundstage (feels like instruments and/or musicians are in different places on stage) * Not usually tiring to listen to Cons: * Oops. Quite extensive modifications were needed to make the headphones comfortable (at least for me). These should be "studio" headphones. What gives? * Generally fairly flat sound reproduction. Listening to these phones won't knock you out of your chair, but it won't make you flinch either. * Depending on the source, high frequencies can be either "bright” or "soft”. That description sounds contradictory, but I think it's accurate. Cymbals, brass, and other instrumental high frequencies can be a bit harsh and tinny, but at the same time fuzzy and "smeared". they must be amplified sufficiently (and digital music must be smoothed). Verdict: I might have been a bit harsh in my description of these phones, being used to the true audiophile quality pair I use for home use. I hear. If you've been listening to music and video through $14 headphones, these Shures are undoubtedly a very substantial upgrade. At $99 they seem like a pretty decent deal, but when you add the cost of new ear pads and headbands it becomes a little less obvious. Other people really like these phones, and after a period of 'burning in' I might find there's more to enjoy.