Shure SRH1840

The American manufacturer Shure, known above all else for its microphones, has been ramping up its production of headphones in recent years. The SRH1840, an open design that’s been positioned at the top of the market, demonstrates that Shure have clued up on more than a few basics when producing a product for mixing, mastering and sophisticated audiophile applications. The premium placement of this product is evident from unwrapping, with the cardboard packaging the product comes housed in a stunning design in its own right. Inside the foam-lined interior, the headphones themselves can be found, along with a cable and 6.3mm adapter.

Sound Reference

These Shure headphones performed well in our listening test and measurement taking steps. All musical styles were reproduced with an organic sound and high levels of clarity, with the spatial arrangement of the instruments and respective vocals easy to place from the moment of recording. Even at very low frequencies, the SRH1840 still delivers with precision and pristine clarity, standing out from many competitor models on the market. However, it can often arguably play its strengths to the detriment of the listener, with even the most minor of weaknesses in the original audio laid bare for the wearer to hear. With its technical specs and consistent performance, this headphone model is one that can holds its own against the upper tier of the market. In fact, it can go toe to toe with many higher priced products out there.

For Everyday Listening & Studio Use

It’s unlikely that anyone investing upwards of 500 euros on a new pair of top-end headphones would casually carry them around in public with them as a daily occurrence. Those audiophiles amongst you however, might very well consider it. Bear in mind this kind of application will not bring the best out of these headphones, with mobile devices a terrible pairing for the SRH1840, playing far too quietly to savour the strengths of the tech at hand. A decent HiFi amplifier or quality studio amps are a more worthy partner for these, with the strength of the sound really showing when these headphones are coordinated with the right kit. These Shure headphones aren’t really suited for the recording room due to their open design, with too much intrusion of external noise for the wearer to be remain focused on the actual recording.
The SRH1840 is a comfortable choice of headphone for the wearer, with well padded earpieces and a low weight of just 300 grams. The high levels of workmanship also make for a more elegant form that lends itself well to long listening sessions.