2013 Astro A40 Gaming Headset Review and Unboxing

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[@21JenyA95]

I wanted to get A50, but there are a lot of stories on forums about A50's problems, so I went with the A40

[@TurkTainment]

For audio differences, despite the A40 and A50 using the same 40mm drivers, the A50 will be a closed headset whereas the A40 is semi-open. This will mean that the A50 will have a greater bass response while inherently sacrificing a bit of the "airiness" that comes from an open-backed set of headphones. Also the A50 will have a few audio presets you can select from, which are designed to change the EQ based on your needs. The A40 does have 4 EQ settings, keep in mind the extra is only for "Sports" itself, which is not needed for Pro gaming, as A50 is made for Pro gaming itself. A50 does have enhance/higher frequencies when switches to Pro gaming / EQ 3. Astro gaming has boosted up the background noises on the A50, making it easier to hear footsteps, and easier to hear your surroundings, where-as the A40 do have the pro gaming setting, which higher background noises, just not as boosted up as the A50. There are little things that make the A50's a better headset, but all-in-all, it comes down to Wired/wireless is the main key. Both great, similar just one is wired, and one isn't.

[@lusk001]

Haha the first part made me laugh. Sorry im an audio engineer lol.

[@TurkTainment]

lusk001 Really professional comment there friend... Would be nice to read a more in depth comment on what you mean, and why you think my comment is so humorous. Congratulation on your "Audio Engineering". Anyone could have taken that course, does not mean you even know more than other about audio. I am leaving a comment for others to realize the differences in the A40 & A50 headsets. Would be nice to read a more professional comment by you. Thanks for your "first part made me laugh..." comment.

[@lusk001]

TurkTainment Lol, calm down brah. I just got a laugh out of your video no problems. You want enjoyment out of your fans? And before you jump to conclusions about audio engineering, you have no idea my expertise. Don't think you do know. Come on its the fuckin internet. Be the better person and don't "bring down" a viewer that just found enjoyment out of your video. Take a chill pill brah relaxxxx

[@TurkTainment]

lusk001 You never even mentioned that you were laughing at a video. All you said is first part made you laugh... I have no idea of your expertise of your audio engineering that's because you never replied saying what was wrong with my comment... You just wrote a comment saying the first part made you laugh, which made no sense.. Whatever dude, next time just mention what you are talking about, you make no sense

[@lusk001]

TurkTainment Its not a big deal at all. stop making it one. Just quit replying.

[@codshostilizing]

this is a very durable headset i still have mine from 2013

[@nathanleroy2850]

I just bought some on Amazon. Are they good? (Mic,sound etc.)

[@Rafael-do7rt]

Are they worth the money then?

[@Dougyy]

should i get these they are 80$ on amazon ? can i also plug these in to the pc and xbox to use at the same time

[@codshostilizing]

its probably 80 without themix amp

[@SpongeBoobiesss]

After Watching This Video, I Bought The A40's Loving Them So Far :D

[@thomasaspe]

Are they sturdy, sounds like a weird question?

[@thomasaspe]

Thanks

[@aaBotTech]

***** mine broke after 2 years

[@SpongeBoobiesss]

Some KZbinr's Say They Last Them Over 4 Years. Trust Me When I Say, They're built sturdy as they come.

[@Str8Ninjaa]

SpongeBoobies I live in Norway. You cant buy them here. So where is the cheapest place to get A40's with Mixamp?

[@NJBtele]

It would have been hilarious if one of the 2013 changes were the mic couldn't bend when he went to bend the mic

[@Luuky97]

I'm watching this with my new A40. Your review made me buy it! Thank you!!

[@fxrisxmxli]

Very good review. I know you are excited but talk slower.

[@noahhedrick7016]

Faris Othman DUDE holy crap i thought you were kidding but OMG dude he is like one of those people who says the money when people bid at an auction (sorry i had a brain fart I forgot what they are called)

[@anthonythornton2960]

+Noah Hedrick Auctioneer?

[@CrazyFunnyCats]

We had no trouble.. Maybe think faster?✨👽✨

[@xFormational]

For the record, it is literally illegal to not disclose the fact that Astro sponsored this video.

[@ryanpasterino2353]

A40's are 25% off on astro's website until December 2nd, just to let everyone know

[@mattholmes06]

I find that if your gaming wireless.. Yes it's Convenient but the audio is never as good as a wired connection. Yes it's damn close but it's not the best.

[@FinleyIsGay480]

wired is faster and more accurate, that goes for everything

[@StayWithTheHoney]

Treehugger9k No, that is what everyone believes but, they all use the same Bluetooth system. So, with that being it, they have the same react time.

[@FinleyIsGay480]

SkionHD| Road to 100 No, wired systems don't use bluetooth and since they're directly connected you're going to get a slight edge. That's why several gamers use Ethernet, Wired mouses and keyboards. Most gaming sites also sell mostly wired stuff for that reason.

[@Jay-dx6gi]

Can I listen to music with the a40's? Like do they have good quality for music standards.

[@chronocrusadeful]

yes you can but you have to use the cord that you mute stuff so yeach you can :)

[@LtColSoundboard]

I was well aware of this, thank you. I'm reasonably convinced they will work on the PS4 due to the face that the optical port is there and because of the fact that the Playstation Pulse headsets are confirmed to work on the PS4. Those require USB dongles to transmit audio which means that the PS4 uses USB for game chat. It won't be long before it's completely announced.

[@Tomiply]

Alright, you talk way too fast. Good review and all, but calm down a bit.

[@isaacmillermusic23]

Heyy dont make fun of him he is cool as hekkkk

[@coleforman1654]

@@isaacmillermusic23 shut it weirdo :/

[@DFusions_]

tmartn is Illuminati

[@zekhrome5690]

Why?

[@DFusions_]

i dont remember i think it was the likes or views i forgot

[@CrazyFunnyCats]

+ZmokeyConspiracy why not 👽

[@zekhrome5690]

Crazy Funny Cats LOL

[@matthewb9095]

Very true. The Sony Stereo headset I used to use had better sound quality than my PX21s. Now I'm using the Astro A40s that he unboxed in this video and will have a hard time going back.

[@JesusSheep777]

Does anyone know why there are so many negative reviews on the a40's? It really confuses me because there are reviews on both ends of the spectrum. Some, like TmarTn, love them and swear by them, but others say they have a ton of problems and hate them. My brother actually returned a pair. I've never used any myself though.

[@mwmm]

When they were first released they had problems with firmware and a low grade USB cable, I bought mines around 3-4 months ago and they now ship them with a hugely thick USB cable along with the standard one included, there was one firmware update which I applied right away which fixed some mic ghosting. Since these fixes and firmware, I've had no problems with the headset and they are just great!

[@TheVideoboy9]

Are you sure you're not talking about the a50's?

[@crazyemu9338]

a40s are epic not listen to the bad reviews if something is wrong send them back and get a new pair

[@topsui]

***** So you're saying they're really good?

[@crazyemu9338]

yep

[@TurbonizeR]

You really should slow down when you speak. Feels like listening to an MC without music...

[@oTehhPredator]

PMSL that comment made me LMFAO

[@irah_tv]

Just bought my Astros yesterday and they are beautiful!

[@fredericksweetenhue6857]

Honestly if you're spending $250 on a headset, just go with the a50's. Extra $50 and they're wireless

[@Nickolii]

Yea, I agree. I picked up a pair of a50's on amazon for $170 USD.

[@fredericksweetenhue6857]

Nicolas Hyams Used or new?

[@Nickolii]

***** They are refurbished. They still have a 30 day money back garente and 1 year warranty. So they are used.

[@fredericksweetenhue6857]

Nicolas Hyams Nice

[@famejaffa4876]

Nicolas Hyams wireless headsets suck everyone buys the a40's because its faster connection so the audio and everything is better also my friend has a50's and there trash

[@PandqPvP]

This headphone looks way better in white -_-

[@tobyshipp3988]

Got these today and amazing very light but huge overall first impressions amazing overall

[@NyfeNyte]

6:22 titanfall 2 confirmed

[@LogicModding2003]

Your a special kind of stupid

[@omgturtle1559]

lol

[@mytimehere]

He was right...

[@sjors91]

How does this work on ps4 ?

[@anepicautumngaming1692]

yup

[@vinnymistretta7429]

YOU HELP ME SO MUCH I FEEL THE NEED OF GETTING A NEW HEADSET MY X12 KINDA BROKE NOW I KNOW WHAT IM GETTING THE A40

[@Godsonftw]

after buying astros i can honestly say they arent that good. they dont even have a bass adjustment button.

[@troycorns]

they are like BEATS for the gaming area

[@DutchGraphicsHD]

Nobuddys allowed Oh that sucks, i thought Astro made nice headphones :(

[@EPICakaAhmed]

I thought the A40's have a mixamp which allows you to adjust the volume and change the modes.

[@svenraven9077]

Ze maken ze ook wel mooi

[@tac0251]

Well in case you can't read astros are a gaming headset they are not made for music although you can use it for that.

[@babsbeaver6113]

meh, I bought these and wasnt too impressed. the difference between these and a 70$ headset isnt enought to justify spending $170 extra dollars. I would suggest saving money and spending on equipment that actually improves your game, or saving it for spending on games.

[@erererer7093]

*ASTRO Gaming MixAmp Pro Kit only $ 129,99*>>>amzn.to/1lNNVwf

[@ThatKidsChannel]

yeah! it needs a connection via optical cable (to a soundcard) to do so, which you may not have, or the mixamp (which is $100 on top of the cost of the headset). If you're interested in them for the 7.1, then you can find a PDF of the manual on their website (just google astro a40 manual) If you read through that, you can see whether your PC will support the 7.1 surround sound, etcetera.

[@StillaMixin]

Astros can be used for all consoles, Steelseries, Razer and Corsair all are pc headset oriented brands. I know for a fact because I am a avid cross platform gamer, Console, PC, mobile, etc., that knows his way around his headsets because I've had my journey through figuring out which is the best for me.

[@NaTe4825]

As TmarTn says in the video, it really depends on your personal preference. If you can be stationary and don't need or want to move around with the headset then you would go for the wired version. However if those things are important to you and you do want to move around then go for the wireless but with the wireless your usually paying an extra 50 dollars for the same sound quality but with the added bonus of being able to move around. Hope this helps make your decision!

[@Maxim_Espada]

This may sound weird but the mixer is what makes these shine.

[@TheLmbrjck]

Best thing I ever did was replace my A40 headset with a pair of Audio Technica ATH-M50X. I plug them in to the astro mixamp pro and it's like the perfect combination.

[@cheatermaster100]

The wired one always gives better experience :3 while the wireless one is just more convenience

[@doodiepootie]

These WILL work on PS4 on day one as long as you download the day one patch. Check the astro website if you want to check for yourself. They will only work for game audio on X1 not chat. FULLY FEATURED ON PS4 ON DAY ONE.

[@ThatX]

yep, you can tell on the website. if it is under "headset" then it means no mixamp, if it's under "wired" it comes with the mixamp.

[@johnnavrozidis]

This is the best review i have ever seen in youtube , i normally skip some parts .... but now i watched the hole video 9 minutes ..... really man great video !

[@Dudesman999]

it is because they are stereo headsets and what makes the surround sound effect is the mixamp. For gaming it's usually better to have a simulated than a true surround sound because the true surround sound is abit weak and you can't hear the footsteps as well as the simulated surround sound

[@rammIied]

if you mean to play music or something you can plug a double sided 3.5mm aux into your mixamp and phone so you get sound through both going into it.

[@92Garrus]

They will, if you are referring to the next-gen consoles (PS4, Xbox 720, Wii U, PC). Audio input/output technology hasn't changed it's form at all. We still use the same plugs. Microsoft/Sony/Nintentdo/any PC dev wouldn't abandon that which is commonly used and works very well in order to pursue a newer form of input that hasn't been tried and tested. In short, this will definitely work on next gen consoles. Technology hasn't jumped that far yet lol.

[@Twitch1131]

its all up to you, if you like moving around then you might get a50s, if you like listening to music and still being able to play games awesomely then get a40s

[@Maxim_Espada]

Yes. It comes will all of the cables needed.

[@steverl22]

Just got a pair....love them so far

[@dirtygore]

Get the 2013 model. I have them and they are great. Any problems they had has gone. Just do the firmware update when you get them.

[@jhardytnarvd]

Yes the audio will work on ps4 and xbone. Not sure on game chat though. There won't be a talkback cable both consoles support full bluetooth.

[@erskinhansen1715]

A40 is a game changer with the MixAmp with that preset sounds and the (mega-option) streaming port! A40 wins. I'm truly surprised that the PS4 nor the XBox One have even considered adding a streaming (all audio sources) port. But I'm glad Astro has a brain in that regard.

[@Guitar387]

This may sound like a stupid question , but are these completely wired headsets , because I don't like wireless headsets I get interference from my router which is near by. ??

[@ipro_jacob7795]

I want astro a40 for my ps4, are they specific Astros for ps4 or do they all work?

[@TheRawksie]

No you can still use them because the connect to your computer via USB/3.5mm chinch. So you can use them as a Headset to listen to music and as a microphone at the same time.

[@acidgaming4003]

depends on which next-gen console you'd be getting. For the ps4 you can just stick with the a40. If you get xbox one, xbox hasn't said anything yet about gaming headsets

[@trustmeimahippo]

Astro is an amazing company and have nothing against them. But the new mix amp in my opinion is just a Turtle Beach DSS2 (Dolby Surround Sound) which has the presets and AUX (Auxiliary, Mentioned as the MP3 input in the video) inputs. But I think that the DSS2 wins, simply because of the DSS2 has the option to change the virtual speaker positioning, and has some more EQ options.

[@xxKrewmanxx]

Okay here is my opinion after havingg these for 7 months. At first I was really pissed off with this headset. I had to exchange them like 6 times. I finally got a good set and couldnt be so happy with them. Just yesterday i went to bestbuy to change them for the white pair because i had warranty. Dont be afraid to buy them anymore. They have fixed the problems and all you need to do is update the firmware..

[@xZOMBIEKILLAx123]

I just saw that the astro A40's work with PC, Xbox One, PS4, PS3, AND Xbox 360!!! I'm totally going to get this.

[@oTehhPredator]

yh same as the steelseries h wireless it works with PC/Mac, PS4, PS3, XBOX One, Xbox, 360, MP3 players/ Ipods and Mobile phones

[@xZOMBIEKILLAx123]

Wireless?!?? Fuck yeah!

[@oTehhPredator]

trust me it worth it you get 2 batteries that lasts 20 hours if both ran out you and can charge your headset directly

[@xZOMBIEKILLAx123]

How much does it cost?

[@oTehhPredator]

well in the UK it costs £254.66 soo basically it costs £255

[@Fatboiii305]

I'm regretting not picking these up on black Friday for 150, but my original(bops edition) tritton 720s are still working fine. I know I'm missing out... dam my need to take care of things...

[@benjiroshimokawa5075]

what a great review you've done bro! but I find A40 more crispier and more detail in sound quality than the A50 so that's that!

[@Maxim_Espada]

They come with all of the cables you need to have them work with the ps3/360/pc. If you buy these be sure to update the software for the a40's mixamp on the astro website.

[@Sil3ntSup3rstar]

due to the controller not using the regular jack input, the game audio will work though, until an adaptor is made than don't expect the chat audio to be working, as the control isn't using the 2.5mm jack( I believe that's what it is currently) but e3 will help, possibly xbox might realise it's stupid to need the headset plugged into the control for a start. That is about 75% of the reason why I don't play xbox much even though it is much better for youtubing

[@1Kurgan1]

Great review man, have been looking at this headset for Streaming and youtube recordings, but was extremely curious how how the MP3 audio in worked, wasn't sure if it would only send that audio out through just the stream port for your audience, or if you got to hear it. No other reviews seem to clarify, but you did and it solidifies my decision.

[@ps3beast1995]

controls voice vs gameplay sound and it has four different modes. one of them is specifically for fps. one is for music/movies one for sports and the other one is normal

[@patrick1580]

I had a pair of astro a40s but I returned them for music headphones and I regret that so much haha

[@mikeythakid]

I'm getting pink A40's. Dont judge me, they look so nice pink, they stand out.

[@dirtygore]

The new a40's sound and work great with the firmware update. oh and if you are using a PS3 you only have one cable coming out the front of the mixamp. something that was missing from the video. sound and voice is some of the best you will get and they are one of the best headsets that you can buy. well worth the money.

[@Vichion]

i hate how people complain about the mic in the a40's when you can clearly just change it :P

[@P90F4nGz]

a40 if you have a desk setup like tmart and you play close to your monitor/tv. a50 if you play in your living room or bed room away from your tv so you dont have any cords anywhere and you can be more confortable.

[@manlazy602]

I first used USB then found out my PC had a optical port. The difference was almost as if it was a completely different headset.You can get a cheap $20-30 sound card from any local store and it will have a optical output 95%.

[@phillyboygamingn3rd]

Yes it will its on astro website all astro will work when you download the 1.50 update day one

[@DivineRebornGaming]

I've had a40s before the mic isn't terrible it isn't good either though. Putting on a wind shield helps some, but honestly the headset is comfy and the mixamp is awesome.

[@tannerhamrick]

Thanks you helped me decide which ones to get I got the a40

[@henryle6201]

I live in Denmark, and here you need to pay over a 100 dollars more for the mix-amp, is it really worth it?

[@recer7506]

I would love if it separated the sound in stead of combining it. Not always the one you are speaking whit that appropriate to be on a stream.

[@ViRaL2D]

An adapter has not been confirmed by Astro or Microsoft. An adpapter will be made most likely be made, however if one is not, then I am right in that sense because the Xbox One controller will use a different port than the one currently used on the Xbox 360 controller.

[@STARSHIPUFO]

I love this headset for sound and comfort these beat the Razer Chimera and Tritton Ax+. The mixamp is so good so easy to setup and use.

[@jozuelitoh]

Well. If anyone cares to read, this is my day. I went to EB Games (Gamestop) to buy some cheap $150 TBs, the helper guy came over and asked if we needed help, my dad, said Can you give us a discount on these (points to A40s) and I guess he thought thats what I was looking for. So the helper had a big talk with the manager (20 minutes ATLEAST) then he came back and said $300 was the cheapest he could go. It was too awkward to now say I only wanted my cheap turtle beaches.

[@xNiTROx83]

I had both but had to return the a50 because of recharging issues, i then got them swapped for a40s and they so much better, the audio is alot crisper and clearer plus u dnt need to recharge A40s are the better choice

[@Phazenemesis]

How come you don't have the new a40 review up yet?

[@islandnation5737]

OMG ITS 2013 Thanks for making this vid i am thinking of getting these

[@shahir10]

They will work at launch. BUT only for audio, chat will not work until 1.50 update is out

[@CollinYT16]

im getting the neon 2013 a40's tomorrow soo excited

[@11PONCHO11]

Great review for this headset. Nice explanation on the features. Bought yesterday new for $150 and love them.

[@JJTTHEGAMER]

do you guys recommend me getting the Astro A40 2013 ED with the Mixamp, Sennheiser PC 363D Headset, or the Audio-Technica AD700x with a separate mic??? FOR FPS GAMES ON PC** (bf4, cod, etc)

[@giovannidigirlamo3673]

Awesome, I'm about to order the new playstation gold headset for my Ps4

[@eventedor2558]

you're lucky you have ALL THREE of them i don't even have 1 of them yet getting the a40 2013's for christmaas

[@Aycejay]

me to!!

[@JS2Tango]

Me three!!

[@jackreyno2274]

me four!!

[@catsrulle7475]

me five!

[@artnirak]

Well, I don't know if there are any headsets that were more focused in the microphone than the headphones, because the purpose of gaming headsets is to get good audio of the game and not so much focusing on microphones, the best option for a better microphone quality is to get a microphone seperately, try out the Blue Yeti, it gets pretty good reviews and have 4 options that you can choose (one of them is unidirectional sound capture which means no more background noises) ;)

[@MrDwigz]

Hmm that makes sense but i read that only XboxOne exclusive headsets will work and companies may have to come out with an adapter to allow third party headsets to be compatible

[@lucca262]

trust me when you hear the crowd and the commentator its amazing

[@epicrandomness1253]

I was wondering if you could do a review on the A30s or A38s, or if you have any recommendations for gaming headsets

[@flaminggaming4621]

No. They wont work correctly without the mix amp. If you get a40s or a50s then the mixamp is a must have.

[@TheCireMC]

I miss the old wireless A40's :( Bring them back astro!!

[@Lyrics_1]

They'll probably work with the X1, Microsoft announced that they'll be making an adapter.

[@DCTRZoom]

Not at launch. Microsoft has said that 3rd party headsets will only be compatible with the Xbox ONE in 2014, so they will release the adapter next year.

[@MoarLube]

You know it's a good review when it's done in your PJs. :)

[@99nppetros]

I understand, I'm the same way. But I never really cared about the DRM policy that they had before because I don't buy or sell used games often, and my xbox 360 is always connected, so it would be the same for the xbox one.

[@AdamsSIMporium]

The A50's buzz in right ear when mic detects noise, Astro know this and don't consider it a flaw. Do the A40's do the same?

[@daviskenward4927]

no

[@h0le2222]

Low cost would be turtle beaches. They work great and they are a great alternative for people who don't want to spend a huge price tag. I recommend the Turtle beach x12s for roughly $60 or the wireless turtle beach x32s for $100.

[@m.g.i2480]

Depends if you like to have wirelless A50 if you dont want or need wireless then the A40s because 2013 A40 are only availabe wireless. And the A50 have a little more Bass power than the A40 due to the closed back design. Besides the Bass the soundquality is EXACTLY the same unless you have like some 5.8 Ghz devices that would interfere with the Headset. Though i have never seen another 5.8 Ghz device...

[@rafzkael]

Great review. I learned more from this video than any other.

[@famaffe]

How long is the Cable from the mixer and the headset on the a40?

[@HeraldDitaryVII]

you forgot to mention the main reason the cable on the headset is detacheble, so you can play you ipod or mp3 through you a40s

[@jeremypeterson9460]

Great review! With the exception of the A40's being wired, didn't realize how close they were in features and quality to the A50's.

[@TheToneBender]

i'm thinking of getting this one. my previous one and the one i use now (which i got as a replacement. so same type). both got the headband cracked. how is this headband? is it flexible enough for my big head?

[@MrSpIdErPiG1000]

what is the voice chat quality like - for instance what someone else would hear and what we would hear wearing them (any noise when not wearing speaking)? thanks for the help :)

[@MattimusHD]

I saw the Astro A30's on Amazon. Are the old A40's now the A30's or are the A30's an old one even before the A40's?

[@xXCrazyxNoobxX]

XP500's are $269, A50's are $349. XP400's are $220, wireless A40's are $300. X-RAY's (my favorite headsets BTW) are $199 and yes they are the same as A30's. But they have the exact same drivers, they are sturdier and they have more features. Astros are like the Tritton Warhead. Comparable to others yet more expensive. I've tried A40's, X-RAY's and AX Pro's and they are all very similar, except some are more expensive and some have more features.