While one of the best-looking headphone sets we’ve ever laid our eyes on (and we’ve seen a lot), the original wired Master & Dynamic MH40 over-ear headphones sounded mediocre but overpriced.
2019 saw wireless versions of retro-inspired headphones, but once again their audio performance fell short of the best wireless earbuds with their sleek designs and hefty price tags.
However, the American company aims to address these shortcomings with the newly released second-generation version of the Bluetooth MH40.
The overhauled model retains the original brushed aluminum and leather styling, and boasts new 40mm titanium drivers, longer battery life and an upgraded microphone.
There’s still no active noise cancellation, but the V.2 MH40 does get Bluetooth 5.2 and support for AAC, SBC, and the aptX adaptive codec up to 24-bit/96kHz, as well as an improved app that allows custom EQ settings.
M&D claims the new driver configuration delivers “clear highs and rich bass,” while the battery can now last 30 hours, compared to the 18 hours offered by its predecessor, (a full 6 hours of playtime with a quick charge feature ) for only 15 minutes of juicing time).
All these new features come with a newly raised price tag, with the MH40 V2 costing a full $100 more than the V1’s $400 (around £330/AU$600) and now available in five colours.
Analysis: Will style be more important than substance for the new MH40?
While their retro looks are somewhat alluring, it’s hard to fully recommend the MH40’s previous generations.
The V2 has many meaningful updates, with better battery life and new drivers that address some of the major criticisms of their predecessors.
We’re looking forward to hearing these improved sound, but the lack of noise cancellation and higher asking price seem to work against them when matched against their main rivals for the best over-ear headphones.
