What's The Fuss About Headphones?
Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones are designed to surround your ears and immerse you in the audio. They are typically tuned for audiophiles and include features such as active noise cancellation and control applications.
The Focal Bathys is a wireless device that includes ANC, a mobile app to tweak the EQ and presets. earphones shop support hi-res audio for wired listening via USB-C.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The WH-1000XM5 headphones are Sony's latest upgrade to their best-in-class noise cancellation range. The headphones have a new design and have improved ANC. They also come with many of the same features, but with a superior sound quality and higher-end materials.
At just 250g, they're light for over-ear ANC headsets. They're extremely comfortable to wear, even when you're listening to or reading the audiobook. The headband is a friction-rod design that is similar to the Grado Labs SR60x, which prevents your ears getting too cold.
The WH-1000XM5 comes with a distinct sound signature created to please casual music lovers as also serious audiophiles. It is tuned with a slight emphasis in bass, however it's not abrasive or imposing. The earphones feature a wide and wide soundstage, as well as good instrument separation. This lets you be able to hear the finer details of your music. The earcups are also equipped with touch controls, which are easy to use. Swipe up or down to adjust the volume. You can also swipe forward to listen to the next track, backwards to hear the previous track. The headphones can be connected to two devices simultaneously and will automatically pause playback when you remove them from your head, thanks to the built-in sensor. You can also switch on the ambient mode by placing your palm on the right ear cup, which allows you to be aware of what's happening around you, without taking off the headphones.
Other features that are useful include the ability to pair them with your voice assistant, Bluetooth low-energy, and support for high-resolution audio (via LDAC). They come with a sturdy carrying case made of premium fabric and a USB-C cable for charging. The headphones work with most Android and iOS smartphones, as well as with computers running Windows and macOS. The battery longevity of the WH-1000XM5 is impressive. In our standard battery test we recorded 31 hours and 53 minute with the ANC on which was more than Sony's advertised 30 hours battery life.
The WH1000XM5 has a great mic for voice calls. There is no muffled or static sound in the background. The noise-canceling performance is also top-notch and they're a perfect choice for public transport or the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, providing high-end performance and features. It features wireless streaming with 24-bit and optimized active noise cancellation, as well as clear voice call quality on any compatible mobile phone or tablet. The 40mm drivers, which are custom-designed and angled to fit in each earcup, provide a more complete and focused listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones guarantee superior call clarity even in noisy environments. And an inline remote and microphone lets you control your calls and music using any compatible device.
Similar to the PX7's original design These headphones have elegant and refined, with accent rings around each earcup as well as an elegant silver sheen on the headband. The memory foam earcups fit comfortably but not too tight on the cranium. The new design and shape was refined over a period of time, and delivers a comfortable clamping pressure that doesn't press too hard on my skull, which is a rotund one.
They are 2 ounces lighter (or 307g) and are a little smaller than the Sony WH1000XM5. They're light enough to carry in your backpack or bag without much discomfort, and they'll stay comfortably in place during long listens. A sturdy hinge on the back of the headband allows you to fold them up to make it easy to transport them in a protective case.
The headphones are powered by Bluetooth 5.2 and the aptX Adaptive. This is great for high-quality audio as well for a tight video sync. You can play them wirelessly too, using the included 3.5mm cable that connects to an USB-C port located on the right earcup. The status indicator on the earphone is a nice addition. It flashes green to indicate rapid charging and solid blue to signal Bluetooth pairing.
The B&W app offers similar controls to the onboard buttons in the hardware including bass and treble adjustment, action button assignment wear detection, a cycle through ANC modes and much more. The app also displays an album cover and track title when you play music using your iPhone. However, popular extras like music presets and soundscapes feature are missing.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is the successor of the iconic headphones from Sennheiser and is designed to meet highest demands. Its technical construction was optimized to achieve stunning detail resolution that covers the entire frequency spectrum, dynamic range and stereo panorama. It also delivers the most realistic sound you'll ever hear with an open-back pair of headphones.
The headphone has 300 ohms of impedance, which means a quality headphone amplifier is required to ensure it is operating at the desired levels without distortion. It is recommended to utilize a balanced connection, which can increase the output and enhance the quality of sound.
These headphones are made for a professional use and have a sturdy steel frame that is adorned with leather and plastic. The design is simple and doesn't resemble the most expensive pair of headphones, but they feel luxurious in the palm and are built to last. They come with a carry case, an additional audio cable and a 1/4" to 1-/8" adapter.
With a neutral sound profile the HD 800 S reproduces natural instruments and vocals, though they are light in bass. This is because the open-back design creates a spacious and out-of-head soundstage. The treble quality is excellent, with minor drops and peaks. The treble area is extremely linear, which means you'll not have issues hitting sibilants or the upper sound of a drum snare.
Despite the lack of a high-pitched bass, they still produce a punch and dynamism when required. They will still be enjoyable for those who like listening to rock music with powerful basslines, but they may not sound as enjoyable as some of the models on this list such as the HiFiMan Arya.
The Sennheiser headphones have a great midrange. They are extremely linear, with a slight scoop in the upper mids, which will not be noticed by most listeners. They also can reproduce fine time gradations which is an added bonus.
The HD 800 S is a pair of premium headphones that are ideal for audiophiles and professionals. Their outstanding sonic performance and comfortable fitting make them a great option. The headphones are costly, but they'll last for many years and perform in any environment.
Anker Soundcore Life q20
The Anker Soundcore Q20 is a great set of headphones for anyone looking to kill time or simply need an affordable set of headphones that block out noise. The headphones come with a basic case which protects the headphones when you place them into bags. The battery will last for several long-haul flights. The ANC works well to block out noisy passengers and engine rumbles, but their audio profile is a little warmer and bass-heavy.
The Life Q20's controls are simple to use and are well-marked. On the left ear cup, you'll find buttons to power up and pair the headphones, as well as for turning off or on active noise cancellation. On the right earcup, there are controls for playback of media. This includes a multi-function control that activates the phone's voice assistant and switches on Anker BassUp (more about this later). You can also use the built-in microphone to make calls without hands your phone.
Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphones offer an immersive and deep listening experience, due to the custom 40 mm dynamic drivers that provide certified Hi-Res Audio. With a treble that extends up to 40 kHz, these headphones can provide outstanding clarity and detail, as their hybrid active noise cancelling technology is designed to block out a wide range of mid- and low-frequency sounds.
One thing to keep in mind about the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 is that it doesn't support the aptX codec, which is disappointing. This means you won't be able to take advantage of the superior codec's lower latency when you're playing on your computer.
The Life Q20's headband and memory foam ear cups are soft enough to wear for long periods of time without discomfort. The earcups are capable of turning, allowing them to adapt to the specific shape of your head, so you can achieve a perfect fit. You can also listen to your music with a 3.5mm cable and a microUSB connector is included to charge the battery.