Fostex T40RP Mk3 Review: Ranked #115 of 165

Last updated: October 10, 2026

The Fostex T40RP Mk3 ranks #115 out of 165 total Over-Ear Headphones for sound quality. See all Headphones rankings for every top pick.

Brand: Fostex

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#115 Fostex T40RP Mk3: $189.99 B&H Photo Video eBay

Pros: This closed back planar magnetic model measures smoothly in oratory1990’s test, with only 2.57 dB of deviation around the target and sub-bass within 6 dB down to 20 Hz. Bass sits about 3 dB above target, giving a warm, solid low end for listeners who prefer a fuller sound. The closed design isolates from room noise and keeps sound in.

Cons: Sensitivity of 91 dB/mW is low for an over-ear, so a dedicated headphone amp helps it reach full volume. Upper mids and presence both run about 2.5 dB below target, which softens vocal detail, and a 4.5 dB dip near 11.9 kHz trims air. The Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X and Yamaha HPH-200 earn the same rating for less money.

ReleasedAug 2015 (11 years ago)
BackClosed
Built-in MicrophoneNo
ConnectionWired
Deviation From Target2.57 dB standard deviation
Driver TypePlanar magnetic
Form FactorOver-ear
Frequency Response20Hz - 35kHz (Manufacturer specified)
Harman Preference Score63 (measured by oratory1990, via AutoEQ)
Impedance50 ohms
Sensitivity91 dB/mW
Sub-bass ExtensionWithin 6 dB of target down to 20 Hz (-2.4 dB at 30 Hz)
Tonal Tilt-1.26 (negative is warmer, positive brighter)
Weight0.7 lbs (315 g)
EQ preset to match the Harman target

Set a preamp of -4.7 dB, then add these filters in any parametric equalizer (Wavelet, Equalizer APO, Peace, or a player with parametric EQ). Calculated by AutoEQ from its measured frequency response.

FilterFrequencyGainQ
Low shelf105 Hz+7.6 dB0.70
Peak58 Hz-8.3 dB0.35
Peak1,951 Hz+4.7 dB1.28
Peak860 Hz-2.4 dB1.50
Peak4,884 Hz+2.7 dB1.37
High shelf10,000 Hz+0.2 dB0.70
Peak462 Hz+1.4 dB3.24
Peak581 Hz-1.2 dB4.70
Peak201 Hz-0.5 dB3.41
Peak114 Hz+0.3 dB3.13

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