Shure Aonic 40 Review

The Shure AONIC 40 headphones deliver a compelling blend of Shure’s legendary audio expertise, robust build quality, and practical features, making them a strong contender in the mid-range wireless headphone market for discerning listeners. While they might not boast every bleeding-edge feature found in some competitors, their focus on clear, balanced sound, comfortable design, and reliable performance sets them apart. They’re a testament to Shure’s commitment to audio fidelity, offering a listening experience that’s both engaging and authentic, whether you’re commuting, working, or simply enjoying your favorite podcasts. If your priority is exceptional sound reproduction and a durable, no-nonsense pair of headphones, the AONIC 40 deserves serious consideration.

Here’s a comparative look at the Shure AONIC 40 against some popular alternatives:

• Shure AONIC 40 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones

  

  • Key Features: Adjustable Noise Cancellation, Environment Mode, up to 25 hours battery life, USB-C charging, ShurePlus PLAY app integration, foldable design.
  • Average Price: $249
  • Pros: Excellent audio clarity and balance, robust build quality, comfortable for extended wear, effective noise cancellation, customizable EQ via app.
  • Cons: ANC might not be class-leading compared to premium models, no automatic pause/play, physical buttons over touch controls can be a pro or con depending on preference.

• Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones

  • Key Features: Industry-leading ANC, incredible sound quality LDAC support, Speak-to-Chat, DSEE Extreme audio upscaling, up to 30 hours battery life, comfortable design.
  • Average Price: $399
  • Pros: Unrivaled noise cancellation, superb audio, smart features, very lightweight.
  • Cons: Higher price point, design is less foldable than previous generations, not as robust build feel.

• Bose QuietComfort 45 Noise Cancelling Headphones

  • Key Features: Renowned noise cancellation, comfortable fit, up to 24 hours battery life, Aware Mode, physical buttons.
  • Average Price: $279
  • Pros: Excellent noise cancellation, incredibly comfortable, easy to use, great for travel.
  • Cons: No adjustable ANC levels just On/Off/Aware, sound profile is less customizable than some rivals, uses older Bluetooth 5.1.

• Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones

  • Key Features: Exceptional battery life up to 60 hours, adaptive noise cancellation, superb sound quality, customizable sound via app.
  • Average Price: $349
  • Pros: Industry-leading battery life, fantastic audio, comfortable design, effective ANC.
  • Cons: Bulky charging case, less premium materials than previous Momentum models, touch controls can be finicky.

• Jabra Elite 85h Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones

  • Key Features: SmartSound auto-adjustment, great call quality, good battery life up to 36 hours with ANC, water-resistant design.
  • Average Price: $199
  • Pros: Excellent value, strong call performance, durable and comfortable, effective ANC for the price.
  • Cons: ANC isn’t as strong as premium competitors, sound profile can be a bit bass-heavy for some.

• Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones Lenovo Tab P11 Plus Review

  • Key Features: Critically acclaimed M50x studio sound profile, long battery life up to 50 hours, multi-point connectivity, low-latency mode.
  • Pros: Neutral and accurate sound, excellent battery life, durable build, great for critical listening.
  • Cons: No active noise cancellation, comfort can be an issue for some over long periods, design is geared more towards studio monitoring.

• Anker Soundcore Life Q30 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

  • Key Features: Hybrid ANC with multiple modes, up to 40 hours battery life ANC on, Hi-Res Audio certification, comfortable design.
  • Average Price: $79
  • Pros: Incredible value for money, surprisingly effective ANC, long battery life, comfortable.
  • Cons: Sound quality, while good for the price, isn’t on par with premium options, build quality is more plastic.

Understanding Shure’s Legacy and the AONIC 40’s Place

Shure has been a cornerstone in professional audio for nearly a century, known for their microphones, in-ear monitors, and legendary studio gear.

When they entered the consumer headphone market, especially with wireless options like the AONIC series, expectations were naturally high.

The AONIC 40 represents Shure’s attempt to bring their renowned audio fidelity to a broader audience in a more portable, lifestyle-friendly package.

Unlike some brands that prioritize flashy features or heavy bass, Shure consistently emphasizes a balanced, accurate sound signature that aims to reproduce audio as the artist intended.

This foundational philosophy permeates the AONIC 40, positioning it not as a trend-chaser, but as a reliable workhorse for serious listeners who value clarity and neutrality above all else.

It’s a pragmatic choice for someone who values substance over extreme flair, aiming for a consistent, high-quality audio experience day in and day out.

Design and Build Quality: A Study in Practicality

The Shure AONIC 40 headphones immediately convey a sense of purposeful design and robust construction.

They don’t scream “luxury” with exotic materials, but instead whisper “durability” and “reliability.” This pragmatic approach is a hallmark of Shure’s professional audio gear, where equipment needs to withstand the rigors of studio life and touring.

Materials and Durability

Shure opted for a blend of high-quality plastics, aluminum, and protein leather. Miroir M1200S Ultra Pro Smart Projector Review

• Earcups and Headband: Primarily made from a sturdy, matte-finish plastic that resists fingerprints and minor scuffs. This material choice contributes to their relatively light weight without feeling flimsy.
• Adjustable Arms: The extension arms for adjusting the headband length are reinforced with aluminum, providing a satisfyingly smooth glide and ensuring they won’t snap under regular use. This is a critical point of failure in many headphones, and Shure has clearly paid attention here.
• Earpads and Headband Padding: Covered in soft, supple protein leather, designed for comfort and longevity. The stitching is neat and precise, indicating good manufacturing quality.
• Foldable Hinge: The hinges for folding the headphones flat and inwards are reinforced and feel solid, exhibiting minimal play. This folding mechanism is crucial for portability and ensures the headphones can be stored compactly without undue stress on the joints.

Aesthetics and Portability

The AONIC 40 sports a minimalist aesthetic.

• Subtle Branding: Shure’s branding is subtle, primarily an embossed logo on the earcups. There are no flashy LEDs or excessive design flourishes.
• Color Options: Typically available in black or white, catering to a classic, understated preference.
• Compact Design: The headphones fold flat and inward, making them exceptionally portable. They come with a relatively compact, semi-hard shell carrying case that offers good protection against bumps and scratches during travel. The case also has a mesh pocket for storing cables.

The build quality of the AONIC 40 positions them as a pair of headphones designed for daily use and longevity, rather than a fleeting fashion accessory.

They feel like a tool built to do a job well, day after day, year after year.

Audio Performance: Shure’s Signature Sound Profile

This is where the Shure AONIC 40 truly shines and asserts its heritage.

Shure is renowned for delivering an uncolored, analytical, and highly detailed sound, and the AONIC 40 largely adheres to this philosophy.

They prioritize accuracy and balance over exaggerated bass or treble, aiming for a faithful reproduction of the source material.

Sound Signature Analysis

The AONIC 40 presents a neutral-to-slightly-warm sound signature.

• Bass: The bass response is tight, articulate, and well-controlled. It doesn’t bloat or overpower the other frequencies. Sub-bass is present when called upon but doesn’t rumble excessively, providing a solid foundation without becoming muddy. Mid-bass offers good punch and definition, making drums sound impactful and natural. This isn’t a headphone for bass-heads seeking seismic lows, but rather for those who appreciate accuracy and texture in the lower frequencies.
• Mid-Range: This is arguably the strongest suit of the AONIC 40. Vocals sound incredibly clear, forward, and natural. Instruments like guitars, pianos, and strings have excellent presence and detail. There’s a transparency to the mids that allows you to discern subtle nuances in recordings. This makes the AONIC 40 particularly well-suited for vocal-centric genres, podcasts, and acoustic podcast.
• Treble: The treble is crisp, detailed, and extended without being harsh or sibilant. It provides sparkle and air to cymbals and high-frequency instruments, contributing to an open soundstage. While detailed, it maintains a comfortable listenability even at higher volumes, avoiding the fatiguing brightness sometimes found in other headphones.

Detail Retrieval and Soundstage

• Detail Retrieval: The AONIC 40 excels at resolving fine details in recordings. You can often pick out subtle ambient noises, background harmonies, and instrumental textures that might be masked by less capable headphones. This level of resolution enhances the listening experience, making familiar tracks sound fresh.
• Soundstage: For a closed-back headphone, the soundstage is surprisingly open and spacious. It’s not expansive like an open-back audiophile headphone, but instruments are well-separated, and there’s a good sense of depth and width. You can clearly place instruments within the sound field, contributing to an immersive experience.

Customization via ShurePlus PLAY App

A significant advantage of the AONIC 40 is its compatibility with the ShurePlus PLAY mobile app.

• Parametric EQ: The app provides a powerful parametric equalizer, allowing users to fine-tune the sound profile to their exact preferences. You can save custom EQ presets, experiment with different sound signatures, or select from several pre-set EQs provided by Shure. This level of customization is a huge plus for those who want to tweak the sound beyond the default.
• Firmware Updates: The app also handles firmware updates, ensuring your headphones always have the latest features and performance improvements.
• Environment Mode/ANC Control: Users can adjust the intensity of the noise cancellation and Environment Mode Shure’s transparency mode directly from the app.

In essence, the Shure AONIC 40 offers a refined, accurate, and engaging sound that prioritizes podcastal integrity.

It’s a headphone for those who appreciate a balanced and detailed presentation, and the ShurePlus PLAY app only further enhances its versatility. Rode Psa1 Plus Review

Noise Cancellation and Environment Mode: Managing Your Sonic Space

The Shure AONIC 40 offers both Active Noise Cancellation ANC and Environment Mode, providing tools to manage your auditory surroundings effectively.

While Shure’s ANC might not always hit the absolute top tier in every single metric when compared to industry leaders like Sony or Bose, it performs admirably and is highly effective for daily use.

Active Noise Cancellation ANC Performance

• Effectiveness: The AONIC 40’s ANC is strong enough to significantly reduce persistent low-frequency noise. Think airplane hums, train rumbles, and the drone of an air conditioner. It creates a noticeable sense of calm, allowing you to focus on your audio or simply enjoy some quiet.
• Mid-to-High Frequencies: Like most ANC headphones, the AONIC 40 is less effective at completely eliminating sudden, irregular sounds or higher-pitched noises, such as human voices or keyboard clicks. However, it does attenuate them to a degree, making them less intrusive.
• Adjustability: Through the ShurePlus PLAY app, you can adjust the intensity of the ANC. This is a valuable feature, allowing you to dial in just the right amount of cancellation without feeling over-isolated, which can sometimes cause a sensation of pressure in the ears.

Environment Mode Transparency Mode

• Functionality: Shure’s “Environment Mode” is their take on transparency or ambient sound mode. When activated, it uses the external microphones to pipe in surrounding sounds, allowing you to stay aware of your environment without removing the headphones.
• Clarity: The transparency mode on the AONIC 40 is natural-sounding and clear. Voices come through intelligibly, and you can comfortably have conversations or hear announcements without feeling muffled.
• Use Cases: This feature is incredibly useful for walking in urban environments, listening for train announcements, or briefly interacting with colleagues in an office setting.

Passive Noise Isolation

Beyond active cancellation, the AONIC 40 also benefits from good passive noise isolation.

The comfortable, well-sealing earpads create a tight seal around the ears, which naturally blocks out a significant amount of external noise even with ANC off.

This combination of passive and active isolation provides a solid barrier against unwanted distractions, especially when combined with podcast playing.

In summary, the Shure AONIC 40 delivers a highly competent noise cancellation experience that significantly enhances focus and enjoyment in noisy environments.

The adjustable ANC and effective Environment Mode further add to their versatility, making them a practical choice for various situations.

Battery Life and Connectivity: Reliable Performance

The AONIC 40 headphones are designed for sustained use, offering competitive battery life and robust connectivity options to keep you connected and listening for extended periods.

Battery Life

• Stated Battery Life: Shure rates the AONIC 40 for up to 25 hours of battery life with Active Noise Cancellation ANC enabled. This is a solid figure that comfortably covers multiple days of commutes, a long-haul flight, or a full week of office use without needing a recharge.
• Real-World Performance: In real-world testing, this figure generally holds true, though actual mileage may vary slightly depending on volume levels, ANC usage, and the number of calls taken. For most users, needing to charge them more than once or twice a week will be rare.
• Fast Charging: The AONIC 40 supports fast charging via its USB-C port. A quick 15-minute charge can provide several hours of playback, which is incredibly convenient if you’re in a hurry and realize your battery is low.
• Charging Port: The inclusion of a USB-C charging port is a welcome modern touch, offering reversible connectivity and broad compatibility with current chargers.

Bluetooth Connectivity

• Bluetooth Version: The AONIC 40 utilizes Bluetooth 5.0. While not the very latest standard Bluetooth 5.2 or 5.3 now exists, Bluetooth 5.0 provides a stable and efficient wireless connection. It offers good range, lower power consumption compared to older standards, and reliable pairing.

• Supported Codecs: The headphones support standard Bluetooth audio codecs including SBC, AAC, and Qualcomm’s aptX. Canon Rf 16Mm F28 Stm Review

  • SBC: The baseline codec, universally supported.
  • AAC: Preferred for Apple devices, offering higher quality than SBC.
  • aptX: Favored by many Android devices and PCs for its lower latency and higher fidelity compared to SBC, though not “lossless.”

  The inclusion of aptX is a definite plus for Android users and ensures a higher quality wireless audio stream.

• Multi-Point Connectivity: A significant feature for productivity is multi-point connectivity. This allows the AONIC 40 to be simultaneously connected to two devices at once, such as a laptop and a smartphone. You can seamlessly switch between listening to podcast on your laptop and taking a call on your phone without manually disconnecting and reconnecting. This feature is a massive time-saver for hybrid work or multi-device users.

• Connection Stability: Throughout testing, the Bluetooth connection of the AONIC 40 proves to be stable and reliable, with minimal dropouts even in busy wireless environments.

The combination of robust battery life, quick charging, and versatile Bluetooth connectivity especially multi-point makes the Shure AONIC 40 a highly practical and reliable companion for daily use, travel, and work.

Call Quality: Clear Communication

The Shure AONIC 40 performs admirably in this regard, leveraging its microphone array and Shure’s audio processing expertise to deliver intelligible conversations.

Microphone Performance

• Dual Beamforming Microphones: The AONIC 40 incorporates dual beamforming microphones. This technology focuses on your voice while intelligently trying to reject ambient noise.
• Voice Clarity: In quiet environments, your voice comes through very clearly and naturally. There’s good presence and detail, making it easy for the person on the other end to understand you without strain.
• Noise Reduction: In moderately noisy environments, such as a bustling coffee shop or a busy street, the headphones do a commendable job of suppressing background sounds. While some noise will inevitably get through, it’s significantly attenuated, ensuring your voice remains the dominant sound. This makes them suitable for hands-free calls on the go.
• Wind Noise: Like most headphones, strong wind can pose a challenge for the microphones. However, the AONIC 40 handles light breezes fairly well, keeping your voice intelligible. For very windy conditions, moving to a sheltered spot or speaking up slightly will yield better results.

Sidetone Functionality

• Awareness During Calls: The AONIC 40 features a sidetone function, which allows you to hear your own voice through the headphones during a call. This prevents you from speaking too loudly, as you might instinctively do when your ears are covered by earcups, and contributes to a more natural calling experience.
• Adjustable: The sidetone level can typically be adjusted via the ShurePlus PLAY app, allowing you to customize how much of your own voice you hear.

For remote work, online meetings, or simply keeping in touch with friends and family, the Shure AONIC 40 provides a solid and reliable platform for clear communication.

They hold their own against many competitors in this crucial aspect, making them a well-rounded choice for both audio consumption and interaction.

Comfort and Ergonomics: Designed for Long Listening Sessions

Comfort is paramount for any pair of over-ear headphones, especially if they’re intended for extended listening sessions, commutes, or long workdays.

The Shure AONIC 40 demonstrates a thoughtful approach to ergonomics, aiming for a secure yet comfortable fit.

Earcup and Headband Design

• Earcup Shape and Size: The earcups are oval-shaped and generously sized, designed to fully encompass most ears rather than pressing down on them. This over-ear circumaural design is key to long-term comfort and passive noise isolation.
• Earpad Material and Cushioning: The earpads are made from a soft protein leather and are well-padded with memory foam. This combination creates a plush feel against the head and helps distribute pressure evenly. The material feels smooth and doesn’t cause excessive heat buildup for typical listening durations.
• Headband Padding: The headband also features ample padding, again covered in protein leather, which effectively cushions the crown of the head. This prevents any hot spots or discomfort even after several hours of wear.
• Clamping Force: The clamping force is well-balanced. It’s firm enough to provide a secure fit and maintain a good seal for noise isolation, but not so tight as to cause undue pressure or fatigue. They feel stable on the head without being overly restrictive.

Weight and Balance

• Moderate Weight: At approximately 313 grams around 11 ounces, the AONIC 40 falls into a moderate weight category for over-ear headphones. It’s not the lightest on the market some premium models are lighter, but it’s far from heavy.
• Balanced Distribution: The weight is well-distributed across the headband and earcups, which further contributes to comfort. You don’t feel a disproportionate amount of pressure on any single point.

Adjustability

• Extendable Arms: The headband features smooth, clicky extension arms that allow for a wide range of adjustment to accommodate different head sizes. The detents are satisfying and hold their position well.
• Pivoting Earcups: The earcups pivot both vertically and horizontally, allowing them to conform to the unique shape of your head and ears. This articulation is crucial for achieving an optimal seal and maximizing comfort.

Users consistently report that the AONIC 40 can be worn for several hours without significant discomfort. Rogue Legacy 2 For Pc Review

While individual head shapes and preferences vary, the overall ergonomic design of the Shure AONIC 40 points to a product that was designed with long-term wear in mind, making them a suitable choice for daily commutes, work-from-home setups, or extended travel.

Controls and Usability: Tactile and Intuitive

The Shure AONIC 40 headphones opt for physical buttons for control, a design choice that many users find more reliable and intuitive than touch-sensitive panels, especially when on the go or wearing gloves.

This pragmatic approach aligns with Shure’s focus on practical usability.

Physical Buttons

• Placement: All controls are located on the earcups, typically on the right side for easy access. The buttons are clearly distinguishable by touch, reducing the need to visually inspect them.
• Functionality:
  • Power/Pairing Button: A dedicated button for turning the headphones on/off and initiating Bluetooth pairing. A long press typically activates pairing mode.
  • Volume Up/Down: Separate buttons for precise volume adjustment. These often double as track navigation controls e.g., long press for next/previous track.
  • Multi-Function Button: A central button that handles playback control play/pause with a single press, call management answer/end call, and potentially activating voice assistants e.g., Siri, Google Assistant with a longer press.
  • ANC/Environment Mode Button: A dedicated button to cycle through ANC modes On, Off, Environment Mode. This quick access is highly convenient for adapting to changing environments.
• Tactile Feedback: The buttons provide satisfying tactile clicks, giving clear confirmation that an input has been registered. This haptic feedback is often preferred over the ambiguity of touch controls, especially in cold weather or when moving.

ShurePlus PLAY App Integration

While physical buttons handle most day-to-day operations, the ShurePlus PLAY app significantly enhances the user experience by offering deeper customization and control.

• EQ Customization: As mentioned earlier, the app provides a powerful parametric equalizer to fine-tune the sound signature.
• ANC/Environment Mode Adjustment: Users can precisely adjust the level of noise cancellation and the amount of ambient sound let in.
• Firmware Updates: The app is essential for downloading and installing firmware updates, which can improve performance, add new features, or fix bugs.
• Battery Status: Displays the exact battery percentage.
• Product Registration/Support: Offers access to product registration and Shure’s support resources.

Wired Connectivity Option

• 3.5mm Analog Input: The AONIC 40 includes a 3.5mm audio jack. This is a crucial feature that allows you to use the headphones passively with a wired connection even if the battery is dead or if you’re connecting to a non-Bluetooth source e.g., an airplane entertainment system, a dedicated DAC.
• USB-C Audio: Some users might also be able to use the USB-C port for a digital wired connection to compatible devices, though this functionality can vary by source.

The combination of intuitive physical controls for immediate access and the powerful, customizable ShurePlus PLAY app for fine-tuning makes the AONIC 40 highly user-friendly and adaptable to various preferences and situations.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations: Managing Expectations

While the Shure AONIC 40 offers a strong package of audio fidelity, build quality, and practical features, it’s important to set realistic expectations and consider a few areas where it might not lead the pack.

Understanding these aspects helps potential buyers make an informed decision aligned with their specific needs and priorities.

ANC Performance Compared to Top Tier

• Good, Not Class-Leading: The active noise cancellation on the AONIC 40 is undoubtedly good and effective for daily commutes, office environments, and general travel. It significantly reduces low-frequency hums and creates a peaceful listening space.
• Premium Competitors: However, if absolute, “best-in-class” noise cancellation is your single most important criterion, headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort series still hold a slight edge, particularly in their ability to dampen a wider range of mid-to-high frequency noises and create a more profound “cone of silence.” Shure prioritizes audio quality, and while their ANC is very capable, it’s not necessarily engineered to be the most powerful on the market.

Lack of Auto-Pause/Play

• Manual Control: The AONIC 40 does not feature wear detection that automatically pauses your podcast when you take the headphones off and resumes when you put them back on. Users must manually pause playback using the physical buttons or their device.
• Minor Inconvenience: While not a deal-breaker for everyone, this is a feature present in many modern wireless headphones and its absence can be a minor inconvenience for those accustomed to it. It requires a conscious action rather than relying on intuitive automation.

Absence of Latest Bluetooth Codecs e.g., LDAC, aptX Adaptive/Lossless

• aptX is Good, Not Bleeding Edge: While the AONIC 40 supports aptX along with SBC and AAC, it doesn’t include newer high-resolution Bluetooth codecs like LDAC favored by Sony headphones and many Android devices for near-lossless audio or the very latest aptX Adaptive/Lossless codecs.
• Impact on Audio: For most listeners, the quality offered by AAC for Apple users and aptX for Android/PC users is perfectly sufficient and excellent for wireless listening. True audible differences from higher-res codecs are often subtle and depend heavily on the source material, your ears, and the rest of your audio chain. However, for extreme audiophiles or those seeking every possible bit of wireless fidelity, this might be a consideration.

Physical Buttons vs. Touch Controls Subjective

• Pro for Many, Con for Some: The AONIC 40 relies exclusively on physical buttons. For many, this is a significant advantage, as buttons offer reliable tactile feedback, work well in all weather conditions, and prevent accidental touches.
• Preference for Touch: Some users, however, prefer the sleek look and gesture-based control of touch panels found on competitor models. This is largely a matter of personal preference and habit.

Price Point in a Competitive Market

• Mid-to-High Range: The AONIC 40 sits in a competitive segment, often priced in the mid-to-high $200s. At this price, it faces stiff competition from older flagship models like the Bose QC 45 or Sony WH-1000XM4 when on sale that might offer slightly more advanced features or stronger ANC, as well as highly competitive newer entries.
• Value Proposition: Its value proposition lies in its Shure-signature sound, robust build, and reliable performance, rather than chasing every cutting-edge feature. It’s for those who prioritize audio quality and durability from a trusted brand.

Understanding these considerations helps potential buyers evaluate the AONIC 40 against their personal priorities.

For many, the exceptional sound, solid build, and practical features will far outweigh these minor caveats, making it a very compelling choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sound quality of the Shure AONIC 40 like?

The Shure AONIC 40 offers a balanced, neutral-to-slightly-warm sound signature with excellent clarity and detail across the frequency spectrum. The bass is tight and articulate, the mid-range is clear and forward, and the treble is crisp without being harsh. It’s designed for accurate audio reproduction. Peloton Heart Rate Band Review

Does the Shure AONIC 40 have good noise cancellation?

Yes, the Shure AONIC 40 has effective Active Noise Cancellation ANC that significantly reduces low-frequency ambient noise like airplane hums or traffic. While not always class-leading compared to premium competitors, it performs very well for daily use and can be adjusted via the ShurePlus PLAY app.

How long does the battery last on the Shure AONIC 40?

The Shure AONIC 40 offers up to 25 hours of battery life with Active Noise Cancellation enabled. This is a robust figure suitable for extended listening sessions, multiple commutes, or long flights.

Is the Shure AONIC 40 comfortable for long listening sessions?

Yes, the Shure AONIC 40 is generally considered very comfortable for extended wear. It features soft protein leather earpads and headband padding, a well-balanced clamping force, and generously sized earcups that fully encompass the ears.

Does the Shure AONIC 40 support multi-point connectivity?

Yes, the Shure AONIC 40 supports multi-point Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneously e.g., a laptop and a smartphone and seamlessly switch between them.

What Bluetooth codecs does the Shure AONIC 40 support?

The Shure AONIC 40 supports SBC, AAC, and Qualcomm’s aptX codecs, providing good audio quality for both Apple and Android devices.

Can I use the Shure AONIC 40 with a wired connection?

Yes, the Shure AONIC 40 includes a 3.5mm audio jack and comes with a cable, allowing you to use them passively with a wired connection even if the battery is depleted.

Does the Shure AONIC 40 have an app for customization?

Yes, the Shure AONIC 40 works with the ShurePlus PLAY mobile app, which allows you to customize the sound with a parametric equalizer, adjust ANC levels, update firmware, and more.

How good is the call quality on the Shure AONIC 40?

The Shure AONIC 40 offers clear call quality thanks to its dual beamforming microphones. It does a commendable job of isolating your voice and reducing background noise, making it suitable for hands-free calls in various environments.

Does the Shure AONIC 40 have an ambient sound mode?

Yes, the Shure AONIC 40 features an Environment Mode Shure’s transparency mode that uses external microphones to let in surrounding sounds, allowing you to stay aware of your environment without removing the headphones.

Are the controls on the Shure AONIC 40 physical buttons or touch-based?

The Shure AONIC 40 uses physical buttons for all controls, which many users find more reliable and intuitive than touch-sensitive panels. Msi Gk71 Sonic Mechanical Keyboard Review

Is the Shure AONIC 40 good for travel?

Yes, the Shure AONIC 40 is well-suited for travel due to its foldable design, effective noise cancellation, long battery life, and included carrying case.

What is the primary difference between AONIC 40 and AONIC 50?

The AONIC 50 typically offers slightly more powerful ANC, larger drivers 50mm vs. 40mm, and a more premium design with potentially more robust materials, often at a higher price point.

The AONIC 40 is a more compact and portable option.

Can I adjust the ANC level on the AONIC 40?

Yes, you can adjust the intensity of the Active Noise Cancellation on the Shure AONIC 40 through the ShurePlus PLAY mobile app.

Does the AONIC 40 automatically pause podcast when taken off?

No, the Shure AONIC 40 does not feature auto-pause/play functionality when the headphones are removed. You need to manually pause playback.

Is the Shure AONIC 40 good for gaming?

While not specifically designed for gaming, the Shure AONIC 40’s accurate sound profile and aptX low-latency codec support make it decent for casual gaming. For competitive gaming, a dedicated wired gaming headset might offer better latency and microphone performance.

How does the Shure AONIC 40 compare to Bose QC 45?

The Shure AONIC 40 offers a more neutral and detailed sound signature with customizable EQ, while the Bose QC 45 is known for its class-leading comfort and slightly stronger out-of-the-box noise cancellation.

How does the Shure AONIC 40 compare to Sony WH-1000XM5?

The Sony WH-1000XM5 generally has superior noise cancellation and a broader range of smart features like Speak-to-Chat and LDAC codec support.

The Shure AONIC 40 offers a more robust build and a distinctly Shure-tuned, balanced audio profile, often at a lower price point.

Does the Shure AONIC 40 come with a carrying case?

Yes, the Shure AONIC 40 typically comes with a semi-hard shell carrying case that protects the headphones and provides a mesh pocket for cables. Lost Ark For Pc Review

Can I update the firmware on the Shure AONIC 40?

Yes, firmware updates for the Shure AONIC 40 can be performed wirelessly through the ShurePlus PLAY mobile app.

What is the weight of the Shure AONIC 40?

The Shure AONIC 40 weighs approximately 313 grams around 11 ounces, which is a moderate weight for over-ear headphones, contributing to comfort.

Are the earpads replaceable on the Shure AONIC 40?

Typically, Shure designs its headphones with replaceable earpads, which extends the lifespan of the headphones and allows for maintenance. Check with Shure’s official support for specific replacement parts.

What is Environment Mode on the Shure AONIC 40?

Environment Mode is Shure’s term for transparency or ambient sound mode, allowing you to hear your surroundings through the headphones while still wearing them.

Does the AONIC 40 have a low-latency mode?

The AONIC 40 supports the aptX codec, which offers lower latency compared to standard SBC or AAC, beneficial for video synchronization and casual gaming.

Is the Shure AONIC 40 suitable for professional monitoring?

While the AONIC 40 delivers excellent audio quality and a balanced sound signature, it is primarily designed as a consumer wireless headphone.

For critical professional monitoring, Shure’s dedicated wired studio headphones like the SRH series or in-ear monitors are generally preferred due to their specific design for accuracy and isolation in studio environments.

Can I use the Shure AONIC 40 for online meetings?

Yes, the Shure AONIC 40’s clear microphone quality and effective noise reduction make it an excellent choice for online meetings, video conferences, and voice calls.

What kind of charging port does the Shure AONIC 40 have?

The Shure AONIC 40 charges via a USB-C port, offering modern convenience and broad compatibility.

Does the AONIC 40 have a strong clamping force?

The AONIC 40 has a balanced clamping force that is firm enough for a secure fit and good seal, but not excessively tight, ensuring comfort during long listening sessions. Joby Wavo Pod Review

Can I use the AONIC 40 with voice assistants?

Yes, the multi-function button on the Shure AONIC 40 can typically be used to activate your smartphone’s voice assistant e.g., Siri, Google Assistant.

Is the Shure AONIC 40 good value for money?

Considering its excellent sound quality, robust build, reliable features, and comfortable design, the Shure AONIC 40 offers strong value for its price point, especially for those who prioritize audio fidelity from a reputable brand.