ASTRO Gaming A40 Gen 4 vs Sennheiser HD 650: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Sennheiser HD 650 comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 85. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Score breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Specifications
| Spec | ASTRO Gaming A40 Gen 4 | Sennheiser HD 650 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $249 | $380 |
| HearWiki score | 72 / 100 · Good | 85 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2019 | - |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | Dynamic | dynamic |
| Driver size | 40 mm | 42 mm |
| Drivers per side | 2 | 2 |
| Frequency response | 20Hz-20kHz | 10Hz-41kHz |
| Impedance | 48 Ω | 300 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 104 dB/mW | 99.8 dB/mW |
| Sensitivity (dB/Vrms) | - | 103 |
| Wireless | ||
| Bluetooth | none | - |
| Multipoint pairing | No | No |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | No |
| ANC type | none | - |
| Transparency mode | No | - |
| Companion app | No | - |
| Custom EQ | No | - |
| Wear detection | No | - |
| Controls | buttons | buttons |
| Voice assistant | none | - |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 369 g | 260 g |
| Foldable | No | No |
| Detachable cable | Yes | Yes |
| USB-C | No | No |
| Balanced connection | - | Yes |
| 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
Sennheiser HD 650
The Sennheiser HD 650 is a wired, open-back dynamic headphone built for serious home listening. It delivers a natural, detailed sound with a comfortable fit, though its sub-bass rolloff and bulky design limit it to stationary use rather than portable or active scenarios. Its replaceable cable and balanced connection option add to its appeal for audiophiles.
- Pro:Excellent clarity and natural tonal balance
- Pro:Very comfortable for long listening sessions
- Pro:Detachable cable and balanced output support
- Con:Noticeable sub-bass rolloff
- Con:Not portable or suitable for active use
- Con:High impedance requires a dedicated amplifier
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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