Over-Ear
ASTRO Gaming A40 Gen 4
72Good
$249
Full review dataASTRO Gaming A40 Gen 4 vs Nectar Hive: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Nectar Hive comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 85. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: Nectar Hive - Outstanding overall at around $197.
Score breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
ASTRO Gaming A40 Gen 4
Sound7.5
Calls6.0
Value6.5
Nectar Hive
Sound9.0
Value7.0
Specifications
| Spec | ASTRO Gaming A40 Gen 4 | Nectar Hive |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $249 | $197 |
| HearWiki score | 72 / 100 · Good | 85 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2019 | 2022 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | Dynamic | Electrostatic |
| Driver size | 40 mm | - |
| Drivers per side | 2 | - |
| Frequency response | 20Hz-20kHz | 20Hz-7kHz |
| Sound signature | - | Bright neutral |
| Impedance | 48 Ω | - |
| Sensitivity | 104 dB/mW | - |
| Wireless | ||
| Bluetooth | none | - |
| Multipoint pairing | No | - |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | - |
| ANC type | none | - |
| Transparency mode | No | - |
| Companion app | No | - |
| Custom EQ | No | - |
| Wear detection | No | - |
| Controls | buttons | - |
| Voice assistant | none | - |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 369 g | 370 g |
| Foldable | No | - |
| Detachable cable | Yes | - |
| USB-C | No | - |
| Calls | ||
| Microphones | 1 | - |
| Call noise reduction | noise cancelling | - |
| Microphone | Yes | - |
What reviewers said
ASTRO Gaming A40 Gen 4
The ASTRO Gaming A40 Gen 4 is a wired, open-back style gaming headset that pairs with the optional MixAmp Pro TR to deliver clean, flat audio and virtual surround processing. It's built for serious console and PC players who prioritize precise sound staging and streaming-friendly connectivity over portability or wireless freedom. The package feels premium, though its price and lack of modern conveniences like Bluetooth or EQ control may limit its appeal to a niche audience. Pros and cons are listed below.
- Pro:Very clean, neutral audio response when paired with the MixAmp
- Pro:Excellent build quality and durable materials
- Pro:Strong Dolby Digital surround processing for gaming immersion
- Con:No wireless, Bluetooth, or ANC options at a high price
- Con:Requires the separate MixAmp for full functionality
- Con:Heavy design may not suit all users
Nectar Hive
The Nectar Hive is a wired electrostatic over-ear headphone priced around $600, weighing just 370 grams. It delivers a bright neutral sound signature with a frequency response spanning 20Hz to 7kHz, offering a detailed and airy presentation that leans toward analytical clarity. This model earns high marks for its tonal balance and technical performance, making it a strong contender in its price bracket for listeners who prefer a crisp, revealing sound.
- Pro:Excellent tonal accuracy and neutrality
- Pro:Impressive technical detail retrieval
- Pro:Featherweight design for comfort
- Con:Bright tilt may be fatiguing for some
- Con:Limited bass impact due to electrostatic nature
- Con:Requires dedicated amplifier for proper use
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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