Mh40
Executive summary
The MH40 — Master & Dynamic’s flagship over-ear line first launched in 2014 and later updated with wireless generations — is consistently praised for its premium metal-and-leather design and warm, slightly bass‑forward sound, but reviewers also note tradeoffs: limited modern features (no active noise cancellation on many models), a polarizing tonal balance, and a price that positions it against more fully featured competitors [1] [2] [3] [4].
1. Design and build: timeless metal, leather and aviation cues
From its origin as a wired “modern thinking cap” inspired by WWII radiomen to its current wireless iterations, the MH40’s aesthetic and materials are core to its identity: anodized aluminum, lambskin leather and canvas convey a high‑end, retro-industrial look that many reviewers call “dead‑gorgeous” or “jaw‑dropping” [1] [2] [5], and Master & Dynamic’s packaging and craftsmanship are repeatedly singled out as thoughtful and premium [6] [7]. Multiple sources note the practical design touches — dual 3.5mm jacks for audio sharing and a mechanical mute button on some wired models — though the fit and clamping vary by ear size and pad selection, and some users find the original wired frame heavy before later aluminum revisions [8] [7] [4].
2. Sound and performance: warm, punchy, sometimes rolled‑off treble
Across professional reviews and enthusiast forums the MH40 voice is described as warm, with pronounced low‑end and strong mid presence that makes orchestral and bass‑heavy tracks compelling; reviewers praise timbre and low‑distortion performance in newer wireless versions that use custom titanium drivers and updated codecs [3] [9] [10]. At the same time, critics point to a slightly rolled treble and an upper‑bass emphasis that can feel tubby on slower material, and some measurements/analyses reveal unevenness that gives the headphone character but can blur very fine layering [5] [11] [12]. The MH40 is described as relatively easy to drive (low impedance) but can benefit from clearer sources or amplification for peak clarity by audiophile standards [13] [11].
3. Features, modern updates, and missing conveniences
Master & Dynamic has iterated the MH40 into wireless generations that add Bluetooth 5.2, aptX Adaptive and extended battery life (up to 30 hours in recent wireless models), plus an M&D Connect app for EQ and updates, yet the line intentionally skips some mainstream conveniences — notably active noise cancellation and dedicated transparency modes on many MH40 variants — a gap reviewers flag as a major omission at the current $300–$400 price tier [10] [14] [2] [3]. Call quality upgrades (microphone arrays, wind reduction) and USB‑C digital audio show the brand is adding tech selectively rather than chasing feature parity with ANC champions [10] [14].
4. Value and alternatives: style and sound vs. more capable packages
The MH40’s premium materials and distinctive look are a primary part of its value proposition, and many outlets recommend them to buyers prioritizing style and musicality over feature lists [2] [6]. But reviewers such as PCMag and Wired point out that at roughly $399 the MH40 competes with headphones that offer stronger noise cancellation, broader feature sets, and sometimes comparable or better sound for the money (examples cited: Sony WH‑1000XM5 and M&D’s MW75) — framing the MH40 as a lifestyle choice rather than a clear technical bargain [3] [2].
5. Verdict — who should buy the MH40, and who should look elsewhere
The MH40 is a distinctive, well‑made headphone that rewards listeners who value tactile luxury and a warm, punchy presentation; the wireless updates sharpen sound and battery life while preserving the signature aesthetic [1] [10] [9]. For buyers who need modern conveniences like best‑in‑class active noise cancellation, transparency modes, or maximal feature density at this price, competing models deliver more complete packages, so the MH40 is best understood as a premium design‑led choice with selective tech upgrades rather than a full‑specification leader [2] [3].