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Sennheiser IE 40 Pro Review - Introduction to the New In-Ear Headphones

The IE 40 Pro are the most affordable and accessible models in Sennheiser's new in-ear monitoring product range.

With three models ending at 599 euros for the IE 500 Pro, all three designs utilize dynamic broadband drivers, with a 10mm design in the IE 40 Pro and 7mm designs in the IE 400 Pro and IE 500 Pro. Many in-ear monitors use single or multiple balanced armature drivers, and both these and broadband dynamic drivers have their strengths and weaknesses. However, a significant advantage of a single broadband driver is that it offers a wide frequency response and doesn't require the crossovers that are common in multi-driver designs.

Fit

Sennheiser IE 40 Pro with cable in view

The IE 40 Pro follows an established design type for in-ear monitors. The earpiece module itself has a removable cap, and the box contains four pairs of tips - three silicone and one foam.

These vary in size, allowing you to achieve a reasonably tight fit, crucial for both frequency response (especially the bass end) and isolation from ambient noise.

In some in-ear designs from other manufacturers that we've tried, the caps and tips have proved difficult to fit or remove.

All Included

Sennheiser IE 40 Pro package contents and accessories

Fortunately, this isn't the case with the IE 40 Pro, and fitting in different sizes proved quite straightforward. The small section of cable in the earpiece is thick and stiff. This allows you to mold the cable around the ear, keep it out of the way, and keep the earpiece in place.

The earpiece connects to the cable via a removable push/pull connector, which also rotates, helping to relieve stress on the wire and connector when adjusting the earpiece position. Finally, the IE 40 Pro comes with a travel pouch in a handy pocket-sized format, a small cleaning tool, a 6.3mm jack, and is supplied in either black or crystal clear.

The Most Important - The Sound

Sennheiser IE 40 Pro Cable Unplugged

In terms of sound, the Sennheiser IE 40 Pro can impress with a rather natural sound - with good articulation in the high frequencies and a full, yet not overwhelming low-end range. We found them a bit too bright in the upper end at higher volumes Nonetheless. They sound significantly better than conventional headphones in this price range, making them a good deal.

Also quite positive is the wearing comfort. With a medium-sized in-ear module and quickly interchangeable tips, a decent fit is achieved quickly - important when wearing them for long distances.

Indeed, we would claim that these were one of the most comfortable in-ear headphones we've ever tried; impressive for the modest price.

The only downside to the headphones is the rather short cable length (1.3m) and the absence of cable extensions in the package.

Conclusion

We are very impressed with the IE 40 Pro in-ear monitors. They deliver decent sound without costing a lot and are suitable for live use as well as general hi-fi consumer use. The only real drawback is the short cable and lack of extensions, but this can be addressed with additional accessories. Anyone looking for an affordable in-ear headphone for consumer and monitoring purposes will get a lot with the IE 40 Pro for their money!