In this review we take a look at the stunning Shure SRH1540s…

These are truly amazing headphones. I wanted to buy a pair of very high quality closed back headphones and these are perfect. I am the first to admit that I'm addicted to headphones and own AKG, Beyer, Sony, and Sennheiser cans. The sound is phenomenal, and they're very comfortable.

I do love a high-end American brand; there's something reassuring and macho about technology from the guys who invented it in its modern form. And there's no brand more Marlboro Man than Shure of Chicago, long-esteemed maker of microphones and headphones.

We've long been acquainted with Shure's great-sounding, comfortable headphones – and it is business as usual with its new closed-back over-ears.

Expansive; open; beautifully balanced; detailed; driven sound; Cosy; roomy fit; Light

Nothing

Most headphones we test tend to have a moderate-to-intense bass response, so reviewing a pair like the Shure SRH1540 almost comes as a shock. Few headphones can extend down as low as 5Hz and yet deliver accurate bass response that doesn't boost the low-end into blowing out the rest of the mix.

Excellent audio performance; Impressively lightweight despite large size; Exceptionally comfortable; Ships with two detachable cables, a replacement pair of earcups, and the sturdiest hard-shell headphone case we've ever seen

No inline remote control or mic on either cable; Not for booming bass lovers

First impressions count for a lot. This is especially true for headphones, because, unlike other types of audio gear, youwearheadphones. When you first try a pair on, do they feel good, or do they hurt? How do they feel in your hands?

Real carbon-fiber ear cups; Really hushes external noise; Really; really comfortable

Lacks mike and phone controls; Doesn't fold for compact storage

First impressions count for a lot. This is especially true for headphones, because, unlike other types of audio gear, youwearheadphones. When you first try a pair on, do they feel good, or do they hurt How do they feel in your hands

Real carbon-fiber ear cups; Really hushes external noise; Really; really comfortable

Lacks mike and phone controls; Doesn't fold for compact storage

Man, this is one hell of a headphone. Though it seems to me slightly hampered as a pro headphone by having a slightly "U" shaped EQ, and slightly hampered for the consumer due to lacking a smartphone cable, I can't but help fall in love with some of the things it does extraordinarily well.

A terrific marriage of sound and comfort

The SRH1540 epitomize our "ideal sound," making fewer compromises and scoring more wins than any full-size headphone we've heard under $1000.

Supremely comfortable; Tight; musical bass with excellent extension; Open; natural midrange; Sparkling; resonant treble; Tremendous detail

Expensive; Large