AKG K371 vs Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
A side-by-side look at AKG K371 and Audio-Technica ATH-M40x for podcasters: pricing, features, and where each one wins.
AKG K371
Closed-back reference headphone engineered to AKG's own frequency target - foldable for the road
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Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
Flat-response studio closed-back that detachable cables actually make practical
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Check price on AmazonAt a glance
| AKG K371 | Audio-Technica ATH-M40x | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | See site | See site |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Best for | Podcasters and producers who want a modern closed-back with flat reference tuning and portable foldable design | Podcasters and home studio producers who need accurate closed-back monitoring for tracking and playback |
Key features
AKG K371
- 5 Hz - 40 kHz frequency response
- Closed-back, over-ear, foldable design
- 50mm drivers tuned to AKG Reference Response target
- 32 ohm impedance - no amp required
- Three detachable cables: 3m coiled, 3m straight, 1.2m straight
- Oval ear cups for passive noise isolation
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
- Closed-back, over-ear design
- 40mm neodymium dynamic drivers
- 15 Hz - 24 kHz frequency response
- 35 ohm impedance - no amp needed
- Two detachable cables: coiled and straight
- 90-degree swiveling earcups
Pros and cons
AKG K371
Pros
- Flat, reference-tuned response matched to the Harman target
- Three cable options cover all use cases
- 32-ohm impedance works from any interface or device
- Foldable for travel without sacrificing studio-grade accuracy
Cons
- Foldable mechanism adds plastic to the build
- Oval ear cups require adjustment to fit some head shapes
- Bass extension can sound slightly soft versus V-shaped alternatives
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
Pros
- Flatter, more accurate response than the M50x
- Detachable cables extend the headphone's lifespan
- Easy to drive from any interface or laptop
- Durable build with replaceable earpads
Cons
- Earpads run warm during extended sessions
- Non-folding design makes transport bulkier
- Bass extension is limited versus open-back alternatives
The verdict
Choose AKG K371 if
Podcasters and producers who want a modern closed-back with flat reference tuning and portable foldable design.
The K371 is one of the most technically accurate closed-back headphones at its price, and the measurement community noticed it early - it closely follows the Harman target curve, which correlates well to what most people perceive as neutral and…
Choose Audio-Technica ATH-M40x if
Podcasters and home studio producers who need accurate closed-back monitoring for tracking and playback.
The M40x sits in a sweet spot where the price is low enough for beginners and the sonic accuracy is high enough that professionals actually use it for tracking. The flat tuning is genuinely flatter than the more popular M50x,…