Q Acoustics M40 Review
Q Acoustics M40 review. Immerse yourself in sound with the Q Acoustics M40 speakers, blending sleek design and superior audio performance. Perfect for any music lover's home setup.
check best priceSummary / TL;DR
The Q Acoustics M40 speakers offer a blend of modern design and impressive audio performance, appealing to both audiophiles and casual listeners. They feature a sleek look with solid construction, though their heavier build might be less ideal for frequent repositioning. The audio quality is noteworthy, providing clear mids and highs with a balanced sound profile, although bass richness may diminish at lower volumes. The speakers excel at delivering a wide soundstage, enhancing both music and movie experiences.
Connectivity is versatile, with Bluetooth 5.0, RCA, optical, and USB inputs, though some may find the lack of advanced wireless options like Wi-Fi limiting. Setup is straightforward, aided by a clear manual, but the absence of a remote control could be inconvenient for some users. Compared to competitors, the M40 stands out for its sound quality but may fall short in bass depth and connectivity features.
Overall, the Q Acoustics M40 offers good value for its price, delivering robust audio performance and durable build quality. While it may not satisfy those seeking the latest tech or superior bass, it remains a solid choice for enhancing home audio without a significant financial investment.
If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Q Acoustics 3020c or Q Acoustics M20 or Q Acoustics 5040.
Where to buy
Best offers of the Q Acoustics M40 at Amazon.com
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Introduction
Welcome to the world of HiFi speakers, where sound quality meets design excellence. If you're on the lookout for a speaker that combines sleek aesthetics with impressive audio performance, you're in the right place. The Q Acoustics M40 is making waves in the audio community, and for good reason.
This speaker system is designed for those who seek both style and substance. It's not just about looks; the M40 promises an immersive audio experience that can transform your living space into a mini concert hall. Whether you're an audiophile or just someone who enjoys good music, this speaker aims to please.
However, no product is without its quirks, and the M40 has a few. Some users have noted that while the sound quality is top-notch, the design might not fit everyone's taste. It's important to weigh these factors when considering your next speaker purchase.
In this review, we'll dive deep into everything you need to know about the M40, from its design and build quality to its audio performance and connectivity options. So, stick around and let's see if this speaker is the right fit for you!
Design and Build Quality
The design and build quality of the Q Acoustics M40 speakers are pretty impressive. These speakers have a sleek, modern look that will fit right into any room setup. The finish gives them a classy vibe, and they come in several color options, including Black, White, and Walnut, so you can pick what suits your style best.
When you first see them, you'll notice the solid construction. The cabinets feel sturdy, and they’re built to last. The attention to detail is evident in the smooth edges and the way the components fit together seamlessly. It's obvious that a lot of thought went into making these speakers not just sound good but look good too. On the downside, the speakers are a bit on the heavier side. This can make them a bit tricky to move around if you're someone who likes to frequently rearrange your setup. But hey, that heft also hints at the quality materials used, so it's a bit of a trade-off.
The grilles are not removable, which maintains the structural integrity and reduces sonic reflections. It's these design choices that show the attention to detail. Overall, the M40 speakers strike a good balance between style and substance. They’re built to be both a visual and auditory asset to your home. Whether you’re placing them in your living room or a dedicated audio space, they’re bound to catch some eyes and ears.

Audio Performance
When it comes to audio performance, the Q Acoustics M40 truly excels in delivering a rich and immersive sound experience. The speakers are equipped with powerful drivers, including a decoupled tweeter and Continuous Curved Cone mid/bass drivers, which produce a well-balanced sound across the entire frequency range. Whether you’re into classical music or heavy rock, these speakers handle it all with grace.
The clarity of the mids and highs is particularly impressive. Vocals and instruments come through with a crispness that makes you feel like you're in the recording studio. The bass is deep and punchy, yet it doesn’t overpower the rest of the sound spectrum, maintaining a harmonious balance. One thing to note is that while the M40 performs excellently at moderate to high volumes, you might notice a slight drop in bass richness at lower volumes. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s something to keep in mind if you often listen at lower levels. Another noteworthy point is the soundstage.
The M40 provides a wide and spacious audio landscape, making it perfect for movie nights or live concert recordings. You can easily distinguish where each sound is coming from, which adds to the overall listening experience. In summary, the Q Acoustics M40 offers an impressive audio performance that will satisfy both casual listeners and audiophiles alike. Just be aware of the slight bass limitation at lower volumes, and you’ll be in for a treat with these speakers.

Connectivity Options
When it comes to connectivity options, the Q Acoustics M40 doesn't disappoint. This speaker offers a variety of ways to get your tunes pumping. First off, it features Bluetooth 5.0, which means you can wirelessly stream music from your smartphone, tablet, or any other Bluetooth-enabled device with ease. The connection is stable, and the range is decent, so you won't be tethered to one spot.
For those who prefer a more traditional setup, there are RCA inputs available. These are perfect if you want to hook up the speakers to a turntable or an older audio system. The inclusion of an optical input is another great addition, allowing for a digital connection to your TV or gaming console, ensuring you get the best sound quality possible.
There's also a 3.5mm auxiliary input, which is handy for connecting devices that might not support Bluetooth, like older MP3 players or a laptop. Additionally, the M40 includes a USB input, which provides even more versatility by allowing connections to computers for high-resolution audio streaming up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Overall, the connectivity options on the Q Acoustics M40 are quite versatile, catering to both wireless enthusiasts and those who prefer wired connections. While it might not have every single input under the sun, it hits most of the marks that matter.
What's in the Box
When you crack open the box of the Q Acoustics M40, you'll find everything neatly packed to get you started on your audio journey. First up, you'll notice the pair of speakers themselves, wrapped securely to prevent any shipping mishaps. These speakers come with fixed grilles, which are designed to minimize sonic reflections and enhance sound quality.
Next, you'll find a connection cable for linking the speakers, as the M40 is a powered system where one speaker acts as the master and contains all the electronics and connectivity. However, there is no mention of a remote control in the standard packaging.
The box also contains a power cable, which is pretty standard but essential. The package may include basic cables for connecting to your devices, but if you’re looking to get the best sound quality, you might want to invest in higher-grade cables.
For those who love to dive into manuals, a printed user guide is included to help with setup and troubleshooting. It’s straightforward and does a good job of explaining the basics, but you might find it a bit lacking in detail if you're facing more complex issues.
Lastly, there are some spikes or stabilizers to support the speakers, helping reduce vibrations and keep everything stable, especially if you're placing them on a hard surface.
Overall, the package includes the essentials, but if you're a bit of an audiophile, you might find yourself wanting to upgrade or add a few things to truly optimize your setup.

Ease of Setup and Use
Setting up the Q Acoustics M40 is quite straightforward, even for those who aren't tech-savvy. The speakers come with a well-written manual that guides you through the process step-by-step. You won't need any special tools or technical expertise to get them up and running.
Initial setup involves connecting the speakers to your preferred audio source. Thanks to the intuitive design, the connections are clearly labeled, so you won't be fumbling around trying to figure out where each cable goes. The speaker terminals are sturdy and easy to connect, ensuring a secure fit that won't easily come loose.
Once connected, the speakers are pretty much ready to go. There's no need for complex configurations or lengthy calibration processes. Just plug them in, and you're all set to enjoy your favorite tunes. The controls for volume and other adjustments are easily accessible on the primary speaker, making it simple to tweak the sound to your liking without any hassle.
However, there is one minor hiccup worth mentioning. The speakers don't come with a remote control, so you'll need to make adjustments directly on the unit itself or through your audio source. This might be a slight inconvenience for those who are used to having a remote at their fingertips.
Overall, the Q Acoustics M40 offers a user-friendly setup experience. The simplicity and ease of use make these speakers a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their audio setup without getting bogged down in complicated procedures.
Competitor Comparison
When you're in the market for HiFi speakers, it's always a good idea to compare options to make sure you're getting the best bang for your buck. Let's take a look at how the Q Acoustics M40 stacks up against some of its competitors.
Sound Quality Comparison
In terms of audio performance, the Q Acoustics M40 offers a balanced sound with clear mids and highs, which is great for a variety of music genres. However, if you're a bass enthusiast, you might find the bass response a bit lacking compared to the KEF LS50 Wireless II, which is known for its punchier low-end frequencies. The KEF LS50 also provides impressive imaging and soundstage, making it a favorite among audiophiles.
Design and Build
Design-wise, the M40 sports a sleek look that fits into most modern living spaces. But if you're after something more compact, the Elac Debut B6.2 might catch your eye. The Elac speakers are slightly smaller, making them a better fit for tight spaces without compromising too much on sound quality.
Price Point
Price is always a big factor. The Q Acoustics M40 is priced reasonably, offering good value for the features it provides. However, if you're on a tighter budget, the Wharfedale Diamond 220 could be a more affordable option, though it may not deliver the same level of detail and clarity as the M40.
Connectivity Options
When it comes to connectivity, the M40 offers decent options, including wired and wireless connectivity via Bluetooth. However, it doesn't have the wireless capabilities that the Sonos One boasts. If you're looking for seamless streaming and smart home integration, the Sonos One might be more up your alley, albeit at a higher price point.
In conclusion, while the Q Acoustics M40 holds its own with a solid design and balanced audio performance, your choice might ultimately depend on your specific needs, whether it's superior bass, compact size, or advanced connectivity features.

Value for Money
When evaluating the value for money of the Q Acoustics M40, it's important to consider what you're getting for the price. These speakers offer a robust combination of features that cater to both audiophiles and casual listeners. Their impressive audio performance, paired with a sleek design, makes them stand out in their price range.
The M40s deliver a rich and immersive audio experience that’s typically found in more expensive models. They manage to provide a balanced sound with deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs, which is quite a feat for their cost. This makes them a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their sound system without breaking the bank.
However, while the audio quality is excellent, some users might find the connectivity options a bit limited, especially if you're looking for more modern wireless features beyond Bluetooth 5.0. The absence of advanced connectivity options like Wi-Fi can be a downside, particularly for those who prioritize convenience and versatility in their home audio setup.
In terms of build quality, the M40s are well-constructed and have a sturdy feel, which adds to their overall value. The materials used are of good quality, ensuring that the speakers not only look good but are also durable. This means you’re investing in a product that is likely to last.
Comparatively, if you look at other speakers in the same price bracket, the M40s hold their ground well. While you might find competitors offering more features or connectivity options, the sound quality of the M40s is where they truly shine.
All things considered, the Q Acoustics M40 offers a compelling package for its price. If you can overlook the limited connectivity beyond Bluetooth, you’ll find these speakers deliver excellent sound and build quality, making them a worthy investment for your audio setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Q Acoustics M40 offers a compelling mix of style and performance that will likely appeal to many music enthusiasts. Its design is sleek and modern, fitting well into various home decors without being too obtrusive. The build quality feels solid, assuring you that these speakers are crafted to last.
When it comes to audio performance, these speakers deliver a rich and immersive sound experience. The clarity and depth of the audio output are impressive, making it a pleasure to listen to your favorite tracks. Whether you're into jazz, rock, or classical music, the M40 handles different genres with ease, providing a balanced sound profile.
The connectivity options are versatile, offering both wired and wireless connections. This flexibility means you can easily integrate the speakers into your existing setup without hassle. The M40 supports high-resolution audio formats via USB and optical inputs, though wireless connections like Bluetooth may not offer lossless quality. Setting up the Q Acoustics M40 is straightforward, even for those who aren't tech-savvy. The instructions are clear, and you'll have them up and running in no time.
This ease of use is a standout feature for those who want a plug-and-play experience without dealing with complicated setups. In terms of value for money, these speakers offer a good return on investment. They provide high-quality audio and a durable build at a reasonable price point. However, if you're looking for cutting-edge technology or the absolute best in high-end audio, you might need to explore pricier alternatives. Overall, the Q Acoustics M40 is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their home audio experience without breaking the bank. It's a well-rounded package that delivers on its promises, with only a few minor areas for improvement.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Sleek and modern design
- Impressive audio performance
- Versatile connectivity options
- Easy setup process
- Good value for money
Cons
- Heavy and hard to move
- Non-removable grilles
- Bass drop at low volumes
- No remote control included
Technical specifications
Product Name | Q Acoustics M40 |
---|---|
Type | Powered Micro-Tower Speakers |
Speaker Configuration | 2.0 Stereo |
Amplifier Power Output | 2 x 100W peak, 2 x 50W RMS per channel |
Frequency Response | 38 Hz – 22 kHz (-6dB) |
Drivers | 1 x 22mm tweeter, 2 x 125mm mid/bass drivers |
Input Options | Bluetooth, Optical, RCA, 3.5mm Aux, USB |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX, aptX HD, and aptX Low Latency |
Dimensions (H x W x D) | 710 mm x 250 mm x 296 mm (with stabilizers) |
Weight | 12.4 kg (amplified speaker), 11.8 kg (passive speaker) |
Cabinet Material | MDF with vinyl wrap |
Finish Options | Black, White, Walnut |
Included Accessories | Remote control, power cables, speaker cable, stabilizers, spike feet, foam bungs |
Power Supply | AC 100-240V, 50-60Hz |
Standby Power Consumption | <0.5W |
Warranty | Not specified in available data |
Frequently Asked Questions
The Q Acoustics M40 HD features a 2-way reflex ported enclosure, two 125mm mid/bass drivers, a 22mm tweeter, and a peak power output of 2 x 100W. It supports Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD, and offers various inputs like RCA, 3.5mm, optical, and USB. The system is designed for high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/192kHz.
The Q Acoustics M40 is available in three finishes: Black, White, and Walnut.
To set up the Q Acoustics M40 HD for optimal sound quality, ensure the speakers are positioned correctly (free space, against a wall, or in a corner), and use the EQ switch accordingly. Connect the speakers using the provided cable and adjust settings via the remote control.
No, the Q Acoustics M40 does not support Wi-Fi connectivity. It offers Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless streaming.
The Q Acoustics M40 HD consumes less than 0.5 watts in standby mode and approximately 10 watts during typical use.
No, the grilles on the Q Acoustics M40 are fixed and cannot be removed. This design helps minimize sound dispersion interference and adds strength to the baffle.
The Q Acoustics M40 HD has a frequency response of 38 Hz to 22 kHz (-6dB).
To connect a subwoofer to the Q Acoustics M40 HD, use the sub-out phono connector on the primary speaker, which provides a maximum output of 1 V RMS.
The amplified speaker of the Q Acoustics M40 HD weighs 12.4 kg (27 lb 5 oz), while the passive speaker weighs 11.8 kg (26 lb).
Yes, you can use the Q Acoustics M40 HD with a turntable, provided the turntable has a built-in preamp. Connect the turntable to the phono inputs on the primary speaker.
Important
Before buying any product, check all details of this product on the website or in the store where you purchase it. Aspects and specifications mentioned in the text above might differ.