Mr Speakers has made a huge impact on the market since graduating from Fostex fiddling, not least with the Aeon closed-back model recently. However if you’re in the mood to pick a quiet spot and have a need to relax, why not consider the open design of the Aeon Flow?

Design and appearance

The most visual difference between the closed-back Aeon and the Flow is the attractive hexagon grill design on the earcups. Perfect for listening to the likes of Queen, and Sting. Moving on from the Bee-grade jokes however, the Aeon Flow keeps all of the charm and advantages of the former model in terms of its lightness and comfort.

Durability & build quality

The Aeon open-back‘s lightness may give the impression that it is fragile; however it can bend and stretch along with the roughest handling, and there’s no reason to suspect that will ever change. The included carry case may not win any beauty pageants, but is certainly one of the more pragmatic cases and should protect the Aeon for years to come.

Comfort

There should be no worries when it comes to comfort during extended listening sessions; the more forgetful among us may even be wondering where our new headphones are whilst wearing them. The Aeon open-back is light and sits nicely on the head, distributing the load evenly.

Sound characteristics

The tuning can be altered by means of filters which can be added to the earcups, just like the closed back Aeon. These will gradually decrease the treble presence, making a bassier-sounding headphone. For this review, we go ‘au naturel’ and try them in their unmodified state. However even with no filters, the Aeon open back is a warm-sounding headphone. If you find yourself attracted by dog whistles, then maybe the Aeon open will be a little too relaxed for you.

Bass

Sub-bass has a good presence in the mix for an open design. It’s a relaxed, yet powerful quality which describes the sound overall pretty well. Like the Aeon is not really trying – high praise indeed! Mid bass has a punchy, slammy feel to it. Many cheaper cans have a mid bass punch, but here it’s the real deal and much more authoritative. It’s ideal for fans of bass quantity and quality alike.

Mids

Midrange is neither pushed at the listener or recessed. Vocals are rich and velvety and there’s a natural and unforced feel about them. Control is in evidence however, with a nice black background for reverbs to tail off into virtually nothing. Consequently there is a lot of space in good recordings, which complements the well controlled audio and provides some excellent imaging. The midrange quality veers slightly towards the lush and rich, giving music a nice approachable glow.

Treble

Higher frequencies may not be featured prominently but the treble, like the bass and midrange, has a free and easy quality about it. Much like a figure skater’s graceful figures of eight which look easy to do, the hard work going on is cleverly hidden from view. There’s a little bit of sparkle here, and the treble generally has no problematic peaks.

Soundstage & Separation

The overall width of the presentation is not huge, it keeps vocals and instruments close to the listener. Separation is very good, with some clear midrange harmonics doing well against a silent, distortion-free background.

Music genres good for and why

A few genres were tried, and all were very enjoyable with the Aeon Flow Open. If you are fond of classical, acoustic or similar genres, don’t be put off by the sub bass these headphones can put out, as there will be little sub bass in the recordings. However if sub bass is your thing, the Aeon Flow Open will certainly be a contender for dance, pop and rap. Rock music and jazz benefits from the treatment the midrange gives, so if you like to mix things up, these are some versatile headphones indeed.

Pros

• Light and comfortable
• Good build and looks
• Sensible carry case
• ‘Effortless’ sound quality
• Modifiable sound

Cons

• Soundstage is limited

Summary

The Mr Speakers Aeon Flow Open may be a mouthful, but it also makes rather a nice earful.

The post Mr Speakers Aeon Flow- Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

It’s been a while since Audeze released a closed-back model in their LCD range; the XC model was (and is) beautiful but it is a little treble-heavy for this particular listener. So it’s great news that we now have an alternative LCD to play around with!

Design and appearance

The Audeze LCD-2 closed-back takes a slight departure from the XC model in terms of looks; gone is the polished wood, and instead we have black earcups with white chevrons painted on. It’s not unattractive, and gives the headphones a nice update for 2018. The cable is a black and white braided affair, and matches the look of the headphones well.

We’re well used to Audeze treating us with extras such as a carry case and 3.5mm adapter, but this is not how the closed back LCD-2 comes. All we get are the headphones themselves and 3m cable (with 6.35mm jack). To be fair, this could just be a way for Audeze to offer better headphones for less money, and there is always the option to purchase a carry case later if needed.

Durability & build quality

The closed back LCD-2 is pretty rock solid. There are no obvious weak points and with care, these headphones should last a lifetime. The cable is similarly well constructed with strain reliefs at the top and bottom, and Rean connectors for attaching to the headphones.

Comfort

With a weight of 646g, the LCD-2 is not for those with delicate necks. This reviewer is feeling the weight a little bit after 30 minutes, but it’s not a problem. A longer listening session might change this however!

Suitability for intended application

The closed back design may lend itself well to outdoor pursuits, but most smartphones would have difficulty running the LCD-2 closed back. With a 70 ohm impedance and a relatively low sensitivity of 97dB, these headphones are better suited to devices with greater powers of amplification. Having said that, the LG V20 does a fairly good job but the headphones could be powered a lot better with proper gear such as a dedicated headphone amp.

Sound characteristics:

When compared to the open back version, the closed back LCD-2 does of course have the advantage of much greater isolation but there is of course some compromise due to the need to deal with internal sound reflections and resonances. Bass is more present, but with slightly less detail. Midrange is full and syrupy, and high frequency detail takes a slight hit too.

For this review, the closed LCD-2 is powered by the Questyle CMA600i, which provides some very clean audio and won’t make the headphones any warmer-sounding than they already are.

Bass

Sub bass is indeed impressive on the closed LCD-2; it’s very well rendered and has a very wide and deep feeling to it. Bass presence is enough to make its mark, but without causing many problems for higher frequencies. There however the feeling at times that it affects an otherwise spacious feeling within the midrange.

Mids

Generally the midrange has a good speed about it, with a quality which is neither too dry nor too lush. It sits well between the bass and high frequency ranges, making a cohesive sound which is very slightly recessed when compared to the bass level. Vocals are comfortable within the mix and are rich and detailed.

Treble

Perhaps comparison with an open-back LCD-2 is unfair here, but the open back does do better in terms of the high frequency detail. However, the closed back version still has a lot to offer with genres such as classical, with still a good sense of space in the recording. Presence is about as much as it can be, whilst still feeling like a warm headphone. This reviewer is a fan of warm headphones such as the Sennheiser HD650 and Oppo PM-2, and the closed LCD-2 would serve as a good closed-back alternative for those who want a similar sound.

Soundstage & Separation

This LCD-2 is surprisingly good for a closed back model; soundstage is impressive although there’s not so much of an ‘airy’ feeling here. Separation is very good too, with instruments giving a good impression of sitting in their own spaces within recordings.

Music genres good for and why

Given the slightly bass-centric tuning, the closed LCD-2 is well suited for studio genres such as dance, pop and rock. However, it can give a good rendition of a classical or acoustic performance if you’re more fond of a weighty feel within the music as opposed to a light and airy one.

Pros:

• There’s now a choice of LCD closed backs (along with LCD-XC)
• Good isolation
• Great soundstage for a closed back model

Cons:

• More utilitarian looking than most designs
• Accessories are spartan
• Can be heavy for some

Summary

Audeze’s new closed-back LCD-2 promises to offer more privacy and isolation for fans of the warmer sounding Audeze models, and it delivers admirably.

The post Review- Audeze LCD-2 Closed Back Headphones appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Intro

Final is an odd name for a brand which doesn’t stop, but why question it? If looks are anything to go by, the new E4000 and E5000 are very nice indeed; Final has a real knack for creating beautiful, utilitarian designs. We’ll have a listen, and find out if these two can please the ears as well as the eyes!

Design and appearance

The E4000 and E5000 sit atop the current ‘E’ range, which includes the E2000 and E3000 versions. All models in the ‘E’ range include 6.4mm dynamic drivers, but rather than the venting on the backs of the E2000 and E3000 capsules, Final have opted for an ‘acoustic resistor’ in the E4000 and E5000 designs. This promises to control low-midrange frequencies for improved clarity.

The E4000 has black machined aluminium capsules and the E5000 has machined stainless steel, which reduce any unwanted vibrations when compared to plastic housings. The E5000 model has a silver-coated OFC cable which is very nicely put together.

Durability & build quality

Both models look to be solid in terms of build, there is little to say against them. The E4000 cable might benefit from slightly more in the way of strain reliefs, but this is the only criticism we can come up with. Both models are of the sort of quality we’ve come to expect from Final over the years, and a treat to hold in the hand.

Comfort

Again there’s not much to say here; the designs are fairly basic in terms of wearing style. This reviewer has found however that if microphonics are an issue (vibrations travelling up the cable from walking, for example) then the cable can be worn over the ear to absorb some of this energy.

Sound characteristics

The Final E4000 and E5000 may look like brothers; take a listen and they sound like brothers too. The elder sibling E5000 has more maturity and polish, with the younger E4000 giving out more energy. The family resemblance is very strong however, with both giving a very accurate and absorbing presentation.

Bass

The Final E4000 has a good amount of well-textured sub bass if a track has it, while further up there is a certain light swiftness about the mid and upper bass regions. The E4000 is not a bass-light earphone, but it is good at pushing out a decent amount of bass while at the same time giving the midrange all the space it needs. It’s really fun!

The E5000 has a smoother and deeper bass than the E4000. The mid and upper bass frequencies are more present which does impinge on the midrange ‘space’ of the E4000 model a little. If you’re not willing to compromise on the bass presence however and like those bassy studio-produced genres, you’ll not miss it.

Mids

This is where personal tastes may further separate the E4000 and E5000; the E4000 has a lovely amount of space here and an impressive accuracy for the price. It also has a certain quality which presses this reviewer’s buttons; if you’re fond of the distortion from a Rhodes piano, the E4000 is one to definitely check out. There’s a certain buttery quality, but that butter hasn’t been out of the fridge for very long; a slight bump in the upper mids gives a certain coolness but the E4000 never gets near strident territory.

Meanwhile, the E5000 is more reserved and smooth in the mids. With less presence in the upper mids when compared to the lower mids, the E5000 trades litheness for authority and geniality. There is still a butteriness but it’s more gooey in the E5000. If you like genres which are well polished in terms of production, then the E5000 will complement these very well.

Treble

Like the midrange, the Final E4000 and E5000 stick with their personalities up into the higher reaches, with the E4000 giving more in the way of high frequency presence. Again, it’s the more energetic of the two and further lends a sense of space and air to proceedings. The E4000 has incredible resolution and detail; it just adds a bit of stirring edginess to bring out these frequencies nicely.

The E5000 remains the more tactful of the two, with treble which doesn’t draw attention to itself and serves as a smooth midrange extension with no troublesome peaks. Detail is much like with the E4000 model, but it’s more subtle in terms of presence.

Soundstage & Separation

Both models have exceptional soundstage and separation; however as mentioned above the E4000 gives a more immersive feel when it comes to harmonics, due to the sense of space and slightly greater presence of high-mid frequencies.

Music genres good for and why

As already touched on, the differing flavours on offer suit different tastes. Although each model here can be thought of as a good all-rounder, the E4000 is particularly well-suited to acoustic genres and those which benefit from a good sense of space. The E5000 is more for studio genres such as pop and dance music, but this reviewer has caught themselves enjoying pretty much everything with both models!

Pros:

Good looks
Great sound on both models
Replaceable cables
Silver coated OFC cable (E5000)
Versatile wearing style

Cons:

Strain reliefs on E4000

Summary

Final’s new E4000 and E5000 have hit the streets, and after trying both we all have our favourite. Whether you like vibrant energy and space, or if you’re more into smooth and measured sounds, one of these models is sure to please.

The post Review- Final E4000 and E5000 appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Years ago when recorded music on vinyl was first available, music fans would dress up as if going to a concert in order to listen. It seems daft now, but with their limited frame of reference and their respect for musicianship, we can understand.

And the same has happened many times since; with developments in technology over the past century or so, our relationship with music changes again and again. The development of such things as amplification in the 1920s, magnetic tape, and the famous Sony Walkman all affected our lives in one way or another. It brought more options when listening, and it brought more lifelike and better-recorded music to us. So much so, that we can now take it for granted to the point of listening to our musical heroes in our underpants.

Apple created its own musical revolution years ago with the iPod; although these little players tended to cost big bucks, it was another Walkman-like effect on how we consume music with the iPod’s (then) huge capacity of 20 or 40 gigabytes. Since then we’ve had micro SD cards which increase capacity, but the lasting perception since the iPod is that decent mobile audio is expensive. Step forward, Shanling!

The M0 achieves the mobile audio holy trinity; it’s small, can accept Micro SD cards of up to 512Gb, and costs only £99. Added to that, the M0 has features such as Bluetooth Hi-Res transmission, a touch screen and build quality you can bang nails in with.

Don’t believe us? Give the M0 a try and if your relationship with music doesn’t change within 30 days, we’ll give your money back!

The post Lauri Cular reviews the Shanling M0 appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

It’s Hifiheadphones’ pleasure to announce that the full range of Campfire Audio products is now available from our outlet!

..and it’s a real test of our professionalism to be able to stop listening to one of these excellent models in order to try another one.

• Comet

This entry-level model features a vented, full range single balanced armature driver; we say ‘entry level’ as it’s the cheapest of the range, but it sounds as good, or better than a few more expensive models from other makers.

Warm and natural sounding, excellent detail, decent treble presence yet smooth. The Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber System (TAEC) helps to keep realistic and convincing imaging and wide soundstage.

• Orion

Next up, the Orion sports a single full-range balanced armature provides well controlled bass without going overboard. It’s a little more V shaped, with great soundstage and separation. There’s more treble presence but it preserves a smooth feel.

• Polaris

The Polaris features a hybrid balanced armature and dynamic driver design; the 8.5mm dynamic driver is housed in a ‘Polarity Tuned Chamber’ which increases performance, whilst the single BA benefits from the Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber System. Bass is warm and textured but restrained with midrange offering excellent vocals, and treble adding some well judged glitter.

• Lyra II

With a single full-range custom Beryllium PVD dynamic driver, the Lyra II exchanges some of the smoothness of the previous models for a little more cleanness in the treble region. Bass is very impressive with some good extension and midrange is very rich and natural sounding.

• Jupiter

The Jupiter’s two high and two low balanced armature drivers, plus the TAEC in this design dials the sharpness down a little, and provides a very engaging and musical presentation. Bass abounds, but only in a way which is fitting to the music played. Midrange has amazing clarity which is not forced, and treble is fully present but well tuned for those who may find listener fatigue a problem.

• Dorado

With hybrid dual balanced armature and beryllium PVD single dynamic driver/TAEC, the Dorado gives a little more bass presence and a midrange which is well suited for vocals. Treble is smooth, with good extension and an excellent sense of space.

• Vega

Featuring a single full-range 8.5mm non-crystalline diamond dynamic driver, the Vega packs a punch in the sub bass region, with some great texture down here. Mids are clear and snappy, with treble giving a little bit of sparkle and air. Soundstage and imaging are very impressive.

• Andromeda

The Andromeda sports a five BA design, with two for the lows, one for the mids and two for

the highs which benefit from the TAEC treatment. The result is an earphone that has become very well known in the industry recently, with lows feeling fleshy and palpable, mids smooth and natural, and treble strikes a good balance between being revealing and laid back.

• Atlas

With a full-range dynamic driver made from A.D.L.C. (Amorphous Diamond-Like Carbon), the Atlas model heads up the current in-ear range with some masterfully controlled bass presence, a warmish and clear midrange and a crisp, natural treble.

• Cascade

Not ones to rest on their laurels, Campfire have also produced a portable over-ear model in the Cascade. It’s user-tuneable to some degree using the supplied dampeners in the earcups but is sure to please all who try it. The dynamic drivers produce some excellent and well controlled sub-bass, with well balanced midrange and treble which draws the listener in to enjoy all that detail!

The post Campfire Audio – Stock Now in UK – Inflammable In-Ears! appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

“The Optoma Nuforce BE Sport4 is a solid and reliable companion for exercise and general use, and is well recommended if you’d like a bit of a bass kick to spur you on”

Intro

Optoma has enjoyed tremendous success recently with its BE Sport3 model; it’s an earphone which has a remarkably solid build quality and reliability, but Optoma has gone one better with

additional sweat and water resistance rated at IPX5 – this means that aside from general moisture resistance, we can have a musical duel with water pistols and suffer no lasting consequences.

Pros:

• Funky, modern look
• Quick to charge
• Additional earfins included for better fit
• Good quality carry case

Cons:

• Doesn’t have the fine detail some may require

Design and appearance:

The Be Sport4 capsules are of a rounded square design; the shells are a metallic-grey colour which is offset by a sort of pastel green for the soundports and strain releifs. It’s a funky look, and it can be supplemented by the addition of some particularly vivid earfins for keeping the capsules securely in the ears whilst exercising. The cable conforms to the BE Sport3 design, although the large strain releifs of the former model are gone. Also gone are the ‘left’ and ‘right’ markers which were on those strain releifs, but so long as we remember that the mic/remote control goes on the right side, we’ll manage without them.

Durability & build quality:

The Be Sport4 is a solid unit; nowhere is there any creaking or movement where there shouldn’t be, and there is just enough weight to give the feeling that we have a premium product here. As mentioned, the strain releifs are reduced in size on the BE Sport4 model; perhaps the designers felt these were not so necessary on a wireless model.

Comfort:

With everyone’s ears being different, your experience may differ but the Sport4’s rounded capsules and eartips fit this reviewer in a very satisfying way. The weight of the capsules doesn’t come close to becoming a problem and the earfins aren’t required at all. However if you’re having fit issues, the earfins will help to keep the capsules in place by sitting within the folds of the ears through the most strenuous workouts. The cable can be forgotten, as a slider can take up any slack to keep it securely against the back of the head.

Suitability for Intended Application:

It’s no surprise that the BE Sport4 is aimed at the ‘active’ market, but it’s equally suitable for commuting and general use. The earphones do have a sporty feel but won’t look out of place on the train or in the office.

Sound characteristics:

The Be Sport4’s sound is warm and comfortable with a decent amount of bass and no signs of any troublesome frequency peaks. It’s an inoffensive tuning which many people will find pleasing, and of course some extra bass never goes amiss when pumping iron or on a treadmill. Perhaps with the requirement to block out and mask the standard piped-in music which many gyms have, the Sport4 can be turned up a little with no risk to the wearer’s hearing – if they’re sensible of course.

Bass:

Sub bass is pretty good on the BE Sport4; there’s plenty of deep rumble here, and the mid bass region gives plenty of slam. These are not ‘true basshead’ earphones but the lower frequencies are certainly prominent enough to meet the expectations of a lot of people.

Mids:

While the bass is doing its thing, the midrange suffers no bleed and is clearly discernable. However, it does take a back seat in terms of impact and detail here could be more precise. To don the designer’s cap once more however, these earphones are aimed at those who want motivation rather than inspiration, and the midrange serves well to back up the bass without drawing too much attention to itself and possibly leading to listener fatigue.

Treble:

It’s a non-offensive treble also; it’s muted and rounded off, which might be a problem for those who like a concerto or two during their morning run. However, many who just want a bit of dance music or pop will be well served by the Sport4. It’s a matter of fitness over finesse.

Soundstage & Separation:

Given the accuracy of the midrange and the general quality of bluetooth transmission, soundstage and separation are not gobsmacking but quite acceptable.

Music Genres Good For and Why:

The BE Sport4 excels with genres such as dance, pop and rock. Anything with a beat and a bassline will go down a storm but classical and similar music styles will be wanting, although still quite listenable.

The post Optoma Nuforce BE Sport4 Review – Don’t Fret the Sweat appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Shanling’s shrinking players know no bounds; the titchy M0 measures just 4cm by 4.5cm. Add to that the touchscreen feature, two-way bluetooth, DSD capabilities and 512Gb Micro SD compatibility and you have a fully functional micro miracle! Much smaller, and we may start needing tweezers to handle the thing..

Pros:

• Tiny size and light
• Good sound
• Versatile
• Touchscreen operated

Cons:

• Can require some practice to operate
• Small screen can omit parts of longer folder/file names

Design and Appearance

The Shanling M0 is very smart and simple-looking from the outside with only one control; that being the combined power and volume control on the right side. On the left is a covered slot for a micro SD card of your choice (all currently available capacities are supported) and along the bottom is a USB-C socket and a 3.5mm headphone socket.

The casing is metallic, with an anodised-style paint job which looks the part and is kind to fingers in that no obvious marks are left after handling. The touchscreen is not so fingerprint-proof but a quick wipe deals with that.

Since the screen is so tiny, any list of folders and tracks may not be so meaningful if you have a few folders which are named starting with the artist name, for example. The album titles are not visible as they are cut off by the edge of the screen, leading the user to guess which album they are going into. There is no option to alter the text size, or use two lines of the display to display the folder or file names – perhaps a future firmware update will address this.

The touchscreen operation is quite intuitive, but some may require a little practice with their swiping actions in order to use the M0 and navigate through the various menus and options.

Durability and Build Quality

The bevelled edges make it sit great in the hands of most people; it feels like a solid and dependable unit with a combined power button, selector and volume control which has a knurled edge so it’s not fiddly. If your fingers are dry (or banana-like) and you’re concerned about dropping this little fella, there are natty little leather cases available for the M0 which will offer some additional grip and protection.

Suitability for intended application

The Shanling M0 is a versatile unit; there is a number of bluetooth standards it can operate by, and the two-way bluetooth feature will allow the M0 to act as a receiver so it can be used with a full-size music system (outputting audio at line-level) if you wanted to listen to the music stored on it whilst relaxing at home. Just remember to alter the output setting back to ‘PO’ (phones out) when connecting headphones again.

Its light weight (37.5 grams or about an ounce and a bit) makes it perfect for joggers who are keen on using bluetooth headphones; slip it in a pocket and it can be virtually forgotten about!

Sound

Considering the diminutive size of the Shanling M0, it packs a surprising punch and can adequately power any portable headphones, with a decent amount of bass and clarity. It also has a few EQ presets for a limited amount of sound customisation but the sound is really quite good as it comes, with the EQ off.

The post Shanling M0 Review – Mo’ Minuture Still appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Lindy’s talent for providing low-cost alternatives for items which sometimes run into hundreds of pounds is perhaps a well kept secret, given that they don’t advertise as prominently. Maybe they’re hoping to capitalise on the Lindy Hop phenomenon, but there’s no sign of any ‘jitter bug’ here.

Pros:

• Low price for all these features
• Rugged and sensible design
• Good all-round sound
• Comfortable

Cons:

• Hard to drive (quiet) in passive mode
• Volume control wheel placement

Design and Appearance

The Lindy BNX-60 has a utilitarian look; there’s no fashion statement to be made with these other than ‘I’m pragmatic’. They don’t have a premium feel such as more expensive models have, but the coating is of a grippy type of rubber which is better than bare plastic.

Volume is controlled in two ways; there is a button control on the left earcup for interacting with the volume controls within a smartphone, and a wheel on the right earcup for operating the BNX-60’s internal amp. It’s sensible to have this latter control at close to maximum, as there’s a small chance of touching the wheel when it comes to removing the headphones and inadvertently increasing the volume to maximum.

There are also some call handling features built in; so as well as the obvious call answer and hang up functions here, the BNX-60 supports voice dialling and last number redial among other features.

Durability and Build Quality

These headphones are well constructed and don’t feel cheap like budget headphones might; a little care is required of course, but the headband is quite twisty and forgiving should any passing lummox wish to try them out.

The cable is optional of course, but should you wish to eschew the wireless feature and go wired, the included cable is sturdy and quite adequate with good strain reliefs and a 90 degree jack.

The price also includes a semi-rigid carry case for when you’re on the move and don’t feel the need to have the Lindy BNX-60 on your head, the ubiquitous 6.35mm and flight adapters, and of course a USB cable for recharging the internal battery.

Comfort

The earpads and headband padding are dense but springy, giving comfort which is quite good considering the BNX-60’s low weight of 200 grams (or just over 7 ounces). If you’re a glasses wearer, the earpads give decent enough comfort for short sessions but this may get to be a problem if worn for hours on end. However the smallish earpads will allow most to just rest the arms of the glasses on them without altering the angle of the lenses too much.

The internal dimensions of the earcups are large enough for most ears at 6cm (from top to bottom) but as with any closed-backed design with leatherette earpads, it might get a bit sweaty in there if worn for long periods.

Suitability for intended application

The noise-cancelling feature is reasonably good; the all-pervading rumble of the lithographic printers next door is a feature of life here and the BNX-60 does a fair job of cutting it out. With no music on it can still be heard, but one needn’t turn up the music volume very much for it to be blotted out completely.

Sound Characteristics

There are four different ways the BNX-60 can sound, depending on whether it is fully wireless or wired/with ANC enabled, or off. With ANC off, the sound seems comparatively indistinct and foggy whether the cable is used or not. with the ANC enabled, the midrange is more present and the overall volume rises significantly so watch out if you’re listening at a high volume and wish to turn on the ANC feature.

For this review, we’re sticking to the intended method of the design which is using both the bluetooth and ANC features.

• Bass

Bass extension gives a fairly good hint of that sub bass, but if you like a lot of sub bass then look elsewhere. Mid bass and upper bass is fully present and provides a good bit of warmth here but is a bit flabby with some tracks.

• Mids

The midrange is not affected by the bass very much, and provides a decent amount of detail. It’s quite a hard-sounding and dry midrange with some good detail there; decays give a nice idea of space in the recording and vocals are well textured and convincing. Those who have a sensitivity to midrange frequencies needn’t fear; the BNX-60 is a comfortable listen.

• Treble

Up at the top, treble gives a little bit of glitter but not too much; it serves as an even extension to the midrange and doesn’t draw much attention to itself. In terms of detail it could be bettered; but given that we’re reviewing a wireless, noise-cancelling set of headphones at this price, we won’t expect the moon on a stick!

• Soundstage and Separation

Depending on the recording, the Lindy BNX-60 gives some nice surprises in terms of the width of a presentation. Sounds can appear to be emanating from outside of the closed-back earcups, giving a feeling of being enclosed by the music rather than the headphones themselves. Separation is decent; individual instruments can easily be picked out, yet they tend to meld together if the listener wants to just enjoy a presentation as a whole.

Music genres good for and why

This reviewer has caught himself enjoying a good range of tracks on the Lindy BNX-60; dance music and similar commercial genres such as pop and rock come across with a good amount of power, and live or acoustic recordings benefit from the midrange presence.

Summary

Lindy’s BNX-60 is pretty top-notch for under £100. If you want better, you’ll be looking at spending a lot more for such a fully featured noise cancelling headphone.

The post Lindy BNX-60 Review – Noise Cancelling Wirelessness for under £90! appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Flare Audio is a British firm which was founded a few years ago by inventor and all-round clever chap Davies Roberts; they’ve been busy developing new patented technology in order to more precisely reproduce the music (see below)..

Pros:

• Great sound for both with great detail
• Good construction
• Light and comfortable

Cons:

• Grills not present so syringe those ears

Design and Appearance

Both models are very light compared to other in-ear designs; the Jet 1 capsules being constructed of a polymer material and the Jet 2 capsules aluminium. The nozzles or soundports themselves form an attractive shape as they narrow from the capsule to the eartip end, giving them a very unique look. They sport Flare’s patented design called ‘Jet technology’ which apparently both equalises pressure on both sides of the driver, and maximises efficiency.

Durability and Build Quality

Both models sport a light but tough-looking cable which is pliable; the coating is a little bit grippy which can be annoying should the cable become tangled, so no putting into your pocket between uses (a rule which is worth following with any earphone). Strain reliefs are quite adequate, and these are black and red where the cable meets the capsules, for left and right respectively.

There’s also a single button control and mic on each model so the Jets are suitable for phone calls.

One point of concern is the lack of grills on both models; knowing how some earphones can end up after prolonged use, earwax can get in and interfere with the sound, or stop it altogether. The long and narrow design of the nozzles on both the Jet 1 & Jet 2 does lend itself well to a deep-insertion wearing style which could exacerbate the issue, so a shallow fit is recommended unless you’re wax free.

Comfort

The capsule design and placement of the mic/control on the cable suggests that the Flares Jet 1 & 2 are meant to be worn with the cable hanging down from the ear, as opposed to the ‘over the ear’ wearing style. Given how light both models are (Jet 1 is just under 12 grams and Jet 2 is 14 grams), they draw little attention to themselves other than by the sound they provide, although microphonics (vibrations travelling up the cable through movement) can be an issue.

Sound Characteristics

The Jet 1 and Jet 2 are slightly different beasts; the former has a little more emphasis on bass (or rather, a slightly reduced midrange) and the Jet 2 has a more neutral sound to it.

• Bass

Bass is well controlled on both models; sub bass has good extension and the control factor has it feeling really tangible. Mid and upper bass has good impact and good speed too. These earphones are giving up details down low which seem quite new to me on some tracks, so if you’re a fan of tight and textured bass then these Jets are certainly worth a punt.

• Mids

This is where the two models diverge in terms of what they offer; the Jet 1 has midrange which is a little more reserved than the Jet 2, so if you’re more a dance music and r&b listener then the Jet 1 may be more your thing. Also if you’re a little bit sensitive to midrange presence as this reviewer is, then the Jet 1 is the one to go for.

The Jet 2 is the more grown up-sounding of the pair, but both are more than capable of rendering strings and rhythm guitars with aplomb. Both models have a very strait-laced midrange sound which is neither too dry nor too luxuriant, though it is slightly on the dry side if we were forced too choose. This is not a criticism, think of dry sherry vs. sweet sherry!

• Treble

Both Jets are not warm-sounding earphones (in terms of a lack of treble presence) but there is a certain restrained quality about the treble here. It’s not there in any quantity which draws attention to itself, and carries on the midrange’s good work without overshadowing it.

Soundstage and Separation

Soundstage is rather good for both of these models; if an instrument is panned hard left or right in the mix, it seems to stand a good few inches clear of the ear. Imaging and separation is similarly good; with subtle harmonics not lost on the listener.

Music genres good for and why

The Flare Jet 1 and Jet 2 are not fussy regarding the music they handle. However we’d say that the Jet 1 is more for commercial recordings such as pop and similar, whilst the Jet 2 is the more grown-up sibling which may be more appropriate for live recordings and classical genres.

Summary

UK firm Flare is definitely one to watch; matching interesting technology with good manufacturing and resulting in some very good-sounding earphones in the Jets – Jet 1 and Jet 2.

The post Flares Jet 1 & Jet 2 Review – Here Come the Cool Jets appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Audeze keeps going from strength to strength (the strength of our bank managers, that is). Ever more glitzy offerings are produced which are sure to exceed the last model at least in terms of price, but does the performance match up? We’re sure the folks at Audeze HQ realise that expectations go up along with the levels of cash we’re asked to part with, so they’d better have the trousers to go along with the proverbial mouth they’re exhibiting..

Pros:

• Sturdy construction
• Great looks
• Smooth sound for those who want it
• Sub bass is impressive

Cons:

• Single-ended cable only
• Heavy!
• Some may require greater treble presence

Durability and Build Quality

The LCD-4z is built to last, with an all-metal construction. It’s weighty, coming in at 610 grams without the cable attached; so along with your brass, it demands a good neck. The cable itself is strong and well constructed. It’s a single-ended design ; it would have been good to see a balanced option in there too.

The carry case is quite large; much bigger, and we’d have been looking for wheels and a slide out handle for lugging it around. However it’s fitting for such a premium model and offers adequate protection should you wish to take it anywhere.

Comfort

As mentioned above, some may be affected by the weight of the LCD-4z during longer listening sessions. Clamping pressure is fairly high, but mitigated by the leather earpads which are soft and comfortable.

Sound Characteristics

The Audeze LCD-4z was tested with a Chord Hugo mk.1 as DAC and amp; it’s ironic that this is far cheaper than the headphones themselves! A more substantial setup may affect the LCD4z’s response somewhat.

Overall the LCD-4z has a warm feel to its output, with a sound which is comfortable and luxurious.

• Bass

Low extension is very good which is well voiced and natural-sounding. If a particular track means to hit us with sub-bass, be sure to have your fillings certified by a qualified mouth doctor prior to listening.

Further up, bass presence may be a little too much for some in relation to mids and treble. This may be a nod toward those who are demanding more in the way of bass presence these days. Definition is very good; there’s a certain rounded quality to it which feels like it’s impinging on the midrange but it doesn’t get in the way of midrange detail.

• Mids

Vocals are rich and very detailed; it feels like we’re peering into the singers’ throats with a broad wooden spatula. Backing vocals are very seductive, with some nice separation giving the impression of singers standing about the listener.

With tracks which generally push the limits of comfort in terms of midrange presence (such as with the upper registers of the clarinet), the LCD4z does rein it in a little, so if fatigue is an issue for you the LCD-4z is an option. Overall it’s a gooey, fun midrange and a very alluring one.

• Treble

Treble presence is ideal for this self-confessed Sennheiser HD650 fan; some may find it a bit muted for their tastes but it allows the music to ooze out without the feeling that it’s being forced. It continues on from the midrange in a natural and pleasing way.

Fine details are well rendered with subtle harmonics present; trumpets and other brass instruments are really quite enjoyable.

• Soundstage and Separation

Soundstage is about average for an open-back model, with imaging and separation doing a decent job whilst maintaining a natural feel.

Music genres good for and why

The warm nature of the LCD-4z complements modern, studio-produced genres such as pop and rock. If you like sub-bass laden offerings such as with rap or drum and bass, then the LCD4z is a sure winner. However those who favour classical, opera or live recordings may require a little more bite where it comes to treble.

Summary

Audeze’s new LCD-4z hits us hard; both with sub-bass and credit card bills. However, relaxing with a set of these in place will certainly mask the insistent knocks on the door from bailiffs.

The post Audeze LCD-4Z Audiophile Headphone Review – Groovy Smoothy appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Competition in the wireless headphones market is always bringing prices lower. The £39.99 price of the SoundMAGIC P22BT is certainly attractive but are there any compromises in the design to achieve this suspiciously low price? We’ll take a look..

Pros:

• Light and comfortable
• Low cost
• Decent isolation
• Travel pouch included

Cons:

• Considering the price, nothing!

Design and Appearance

If you’re familiar with similar wired SoundMAGIC models (such as the P21), the P22BT is constructed in much the same way with a light, small headband and foldable earcups. When adjusted, the headband gives a nice clicky feel and maintains its position quite securely. Numbered marks on the steel part within the headband allow the user to easily find the right size before putting the headphones on, if taking out of the travel case.

Durability and Build Quality

This is where some compromises are expected, but the P22BT is actually quite decent. Granted, it doesn’t have the feel of a premium set of bluetooth headphones, but some of those cost ten times the price of course. Build quality is not as spartan as we might expect for the asking price, but care should be taken as they are not indestructible. Don’t put them anywhere where you might accidentally sit on them!

Comfort

The 70mm earpads are soft and do a good job of keeping the ears comfortable; glasses wearers may feel the pinch after a while, but the arms of the glasses can be worn resting on top of the earpads when in position.

Suitability for intended application

The SoundMAGIC P22BT can be worn around the neck when not in use, but those with a Tyson neck might find it a bit tight. No matter, as the included travel pouch will also keep them safe between uses. Isolation with those soft pads is pretty good for an on-ear, so a good option for roving around in town.

Sound Characteristics

Those familiar with previous SoundMAGIC models will not be surprised to hear that the sound is fairly typical of this brand. The P22BT has a warm tilt, with enough bass emphasis to give those basslines a lift without going overboard. As with all on-ear and over-ear headphones, be aware that the position of the drivers over the ears can alter the sound but the P22BT appears to be more fussy than most and bad positioning can affect the sound quite drastically.

• Bass

Bass is full and well-rounded, with a decent amount of sub bass coming through too. There is a little bit of flabbiness where it meets the midrange, but it’s well within the realms of acceptability. Generally however, it’s punchy and with good width.

• Mids

Despite the slight intrusion of the bass into the midrange, the P22BT is really enjoyable! Midrange has an engaging quality about it which gets the listener moving. It’s comfortable, with no piercing qualities when it comes to female vocals for example. Harmonics are good too, bringing out the characters of the instruments nicely.

• Treble

Fine details are perhaps a bit of a stretch for an entry-level priced bluetooth model; however the P22BT gives a decent impression of what’s going on at the top end of the spectrum. Granted, things can get a bit splashy but not to the detriment of the presentation as a whole. Taken with the rest of the sound, the treble gets away with it.

• Soundstage and Separation

There is a nice bit of width and depth going on here; the feeling of immersion is not going to transport anyone to a musical paradise, but it gets close. Separation is decent too, with different elements standing well on their own.

Music genres good for and why

The P22BT is a good all-rounder, but is particularly suited to commercial genres such as pop and rock/ dance music etc.

Summary

The SoundMAGIC P22BT is suspiciously low-priced for a bluetooth model, but exceeds all expectations. Watch out this summer however, as wearing these constantly may affect your suntan.

The post SoundMAGIC P22BT Bluetooth Headphone Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Cowon is known as one of the first companies to produce portable digital audio players (predating the iPod by a year with their CW100 model from 2000) and so they have quite a heritage in this area. Is the Plenue D player able to pick up the mantle of its forebears, and does the ‘D’ stand for ‘Dazzling’ or ‘Dunce’? We take a listen…

Pros:

• Good, customisable sound
• Small size is good for hands and pockets
• Attractive look

Cons:

• Short delay at power on (music database check)
• No case included

Design and Appearance

The Plenue D is a very small player at 2″ x 3″ (52mm x 75mm) and is all black, apart from its silver top and power button, all of which gives an impression of stylish utilitarianism. Edges are slightly bevelled making it comfortable in the hand, and it’s quite easy to operate whether you’re left or right-handed.

Being a touchscreen operated player, the power button can be pushed with music playing which disables the screen. On the right side there are buttons for volume and track skipping with an extra play/pause button. Just remember to disable the ‘button lock’ option within the player so all these buttons function when the player is in use and the screen is disabled.

There is only one slot for a Micro SD card and the Cowon Plenue D can only accept up to a 128Gb capacity at this time, but larger cards may work with future firmware updates. Just now, a 128Gb card is recommended as the Plenue D will hold, but will not allow you to access music which is outside of this 128Gb capacity. However there is also an internal memory of 32Gb on the Plenue D, if you need a reserve.

The Plenue D is a basic player which forgoes Bluetooth, wifi and the installation of apps such as Spotify; it’s a good choice for anyone who just wants a decent player for their own music collection. Why pay for features you’ll not use?

One issue is that the player checks for any new music whenever it’s turned on. This is typically finished after about 10 seconds, but can be a pain if you just want to start the player up and get on with things. Also when scrolling through tracks, the display can lag a little but it’s not a serious problem.

Durability and Build Quality

The Cowon Plenue D is a solid little device; the side buttons have a good ‘clicky’ feel about them and there’s nothing much else to say about build quality. It’s perfect. Perhaps it’s just as well, as there is no protective case included; it would have been nice to see one.

Sound

The Plenue D has a fairly neutral sound, but with a touch of warmth about it. It can help tame models such as the Shure SE846 which can be a bit lively with the bright filters, for example. Extensive EQ settings are available as well, including an almost paragraphic-level EQ section within the settings so you should be able to get the sound you’re after without too much bother.

Being a portable player, the Plenue D is designed for low-impedance earphones and headphones; a separate amp will be required for use with models over about 80 ohms impedance, depending on sensitivity.

Summary

For a basic low-cost player, the Cowon Plenue D is a good choice. It does all that’s needed, and it’s clear that the Plenue D comes from a company which knows its stuff!

The post Cowon Plenue D DAP Review – Cowon and Treat Yourself appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Initially developed thanks to an ultra-successful kickstarter campaign, the Soundkey by Cyrus promises to upgrade the audio quality of mobile handsets and anything else able to feed it audio data, such as tablets and desktop computers.

Pros:

• Huge audio upgrade for handsets and tablets
• Excellent value
• Tiny!

Cons:

• Camera kit required for use with iPhones

Design and Appearance

This little device is sleek, light and simple; there is nothing much to remark on other than the micro-B USB input and the 3.5mm output. The device is the size of a small cigarette lighter and is available in various colours. Included are two cables (one for micro USB-B and another for USB-A connections); these appear to be decent enough, but are each composed of differing materials. The micro USB-B cable is a fabric covered affair, whilst the USB-A cable is white and plastic coated. Given that this is to be used by Apple users in connection with the often required camera kit, it kind of makes sense.

The Soundkey is powered by the internal battery of the connected device; it does not have its own battery, but its low power consumption will not tax the device’s battery very much.

Durability and Build Quality

The device itself is solid and well constructed; it’s surprising that it only weighs 18 grams. The included cables are robust, and should stand up to a fair bit of use.

Suitability for intended application

The Cyrus Soundkey is designed mainly to be used on the go, and the tiny size reflects this. It used to be that any external DAC would need to be strapped to the handset to keep things simple, but the Soundkey can sit on, and just be treated as part of a slightly extended cable given its diminutive presence.

It provides a boost to volume, so ensure your volume level is low on your handset when initially plugging in your earphones. The Soundkey is designed for portable headphones between 16 and 64 ohms which is a great majority of portable headphone/earphone models.

Sound

The Cyrus Soundkey provides a much cleaner signal than many in-built DACs; many of which prove to be sound quality bottlenecks in any portable audio chain. This will be more apparent on higher quality earphones and headphones, and of course will open the way for anyone wanting to upgrade their earphones as these will no longer be limited by the internal DAC quality of portable devices.

Tighter, better audio control results in more noticeable harmonics to give music more texture, improved imaging and greater impact. It’s a good alternative to a separate, dedicated audio player if you are happier keeping all your tunes in one place, on your phone.

Summary

If you are wanting to upgrade your portable audio but don’t have bottomless pockets, the Cyrus Soundkey is a clear winner.

The post Cyrus Soundkey Review – You Won’t be Fobbed Off appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

READ MORE: Headphones Buying Guides

We remember a time when a wireless Bluetooth earphone was a novelty item, but now they’re become de rigueur. It’s an easy conclusion to draw when they’re coming through as sleek and polished-looking as the CX6.00BT.

Pros:

• Can be paired with two devices
• Smart and well manufactured
• Competent sound

Cons:

• Included case is a bit impractical
• Eartips may be hit or miss

Design and Appearance

As already touched upon, the Sennheiser CX6.00BT is as dapper and chic as we’d expect from that esteemed company. Taking its capsule design cues from the Momentum in-ear models, the CX6.00BT is planned to continue the.. er, impetus that the popular Momentum series achieved.

The asking price gets some fine-looking bluetooth earphones but accessories are spartan; with a selection of tips, a so-so carry case and the required USB charge cable. I think we can call this fair (since our money is saved) but the case could have done with a bit more thought. It’s made of a brittle plastic which may get cracked, and it doesn’t hold together all that well.

The CX6.00BT has a nice trick, as it can pair up with two devices at the same time. If you’re enjoying listening to music from your dedicated music player or DAP and a call comes through on your phone, you have the option to answer. Smart!

Durability and Build Quality

The earphones themselves are among the most competently made wireless models I’ve seen at this price; they show off Sennheiser’s design acumen rather well. Having said that, this reviewer had to go looking for eartips which fitted better than the supplied eartips; which were a bit thin and didn’t hold the CX6.00BT in the ear particularly securely. Admittedly, a shallow fit is preferred here however.

Controls are easy to find and operate when the CX6.00BT is in action, and we find the in-ear commentary to be quite bearable; a female voice with a North American twang announces ‘power on’ and ‘power off’ whilst the female voice which says ‘connected’ sounds like it’s from Essex here in the UK. So there you have it, the CX6.00BT includes your very own Essex girl!

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READ MORE: Best Earphones Buying Guide – Wired and Wireless

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Comfort

Provided you can get a good fit with the supplied eartips, the CX6.00BT can be more or less forgotten. During exhaustive testing including motorcycle rides and supermarket trips, this reviewer was left with only music to enjoy and no fiddling about was required.

Sound Characteristics

The sound of the Sennheiser CX6.00BT will be no surprise if you are familiar with the sound of other Sennheiser earphones such as the Momentum (HD1) in-ear model. The CX6.00BT is warm sounding, with a bit of muted sparkle up top to keep things lively but comfortable. Throughout, the sound is cohesive with no obvious peaks or troughs in the frequency levels.

• Bass

Bass is fairly strong with good subbass; it’s not up to basshead levels, but is sure to please most people with a decent amount of weight underpinning proceedings. It has good manners, and whilst it could be a bit tighter it hits the spot and allows the midrange to come through very well.

• Mids

Midrange is clear and fairly detailed for a wireless model; atmospheric effects such as reverb are not lost, and vocals are clean. There’s a decent amount of warm cuddliness within the midrange too, for a fun and involving presentation.

• Treble

There’s a decent amount of presence up at the top, but it’s gentle on the ear. Cymbals and suchlike make themselves known, but will not dictate listening levels unless you have a particular sensitivity here. Fine details are hampered by the wireless nature of these earphones, but it makes them quite versatile and forgiving with less than perfect recordings.

• Soundstage and Separation

Soundstage is OK for a wireless in-ear model; you won’t be transported to the Royal opera House it’s quite acceptable. Similarly, imaging and separation are good enough for portable uses where the user’s mind will often not be concentrating on the finer points.

Music genres good for and why

The CX6.00BT is particularly good for modern pop and similarly produced genres, but it can handle anything thrown at it.

Summary

There’s plenty of choice out there with bluetooth earphones these days, but Sennheiser seems determined to corner this market with a few great releases over the past couple of years. The CX6.00BT is certainly a contender, especially for the £89.99 asking price.

The post Sennheiser CX6.00BT Bluetooth Earphone Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

So the bluetooth fairy has delivered yet again, and Optoma Nuforce now has a truly wireless product in the BE Free8. When shoved in the ears, Optoma Nuforce promise us ‘True wireless earphones with superior sound quality with deep explosive bass’. Perhaps they should have called it the ‘Deton8’?

Pros:

• Completely Wireless
• One capsule can be worn only, like a bluetooth hands-free
• Charging can be done in portable case

Cons:

• Supplied tips are a bit slender
• Not good if you have butterfingers

Design and Appearance

The capsules are small and they’re sleek; the shiny plastic looks the part, but be careful when handling them. If you have dry fingers like this reviewer, they can be a bit slippy between the fingers. It would be nice to have a textured panel or a bit of piping around the edge for better grip.

Spinfit tips are included in two sizes; they look like medium and small sizes so if your ear canals are of a large size, you may be looking for some aftermarket tips. Also included is a case or caddy for storing the earphones between uses, and recharging them. The caddy can itself be recharged, so you needn’t be stuck if you’re away from a power socket.

Durability and Build Quality

Naturally, there’s not much to these earbuds, only the capsules and the caddy. The capsules are light but solid enough; were these to fall on the floor and be trodden on, the show should go on. The caddy is much the same in terms of how solid it feels, so there are no immediate concerns here.

Comfort

Depending on how well you can get on with the supplied silicone tips, comfort is not an issue. The capsules sit in place with no trouble, and they can be largely forgotten, but for the music. Should the silicone tips give any issues, aftermarket foam tips such as Blackbird’s S20 tips should offer an improvement.

Sound Characteristics

The sound of the BE Free8 is generally on the bassy side, but with a decent amount of midrange and treble presence for a warm but fairly detailed presentation.

• Bass

There’s a decent amount of subbass here; although as mentioned above, the supplied tips are quite small and thin. Without a good seal, bass frequencies can be affected so bear this in mind. Bass control is pretty good for a design of this type although it could be a bit tighter.

• Mids

Midrange is clear and quite detailed for a bluetooth earphone; it does not appear recessed unless there is a lot of bass and sub bass going on, so if you’re a fan of oldies or acoustic music then do not be put off. Having said that, the BE Free8 is not too tolerant of low-bitrate music files which can come across as a bit mushy.

• Treble (e.g. high hats):

Treble is gentle and goes very well with the midrange; there’s no noticeable throughs or peaks in the sound up here. If you’re keen on a bright or sparkly sound then the BE Free8 may not be for you, although it’s certainly not rolled off or veiled. Fine details are not particlarly well rendered, but this is par for the course for this type of wireless earphone these days.

• Soundstage and Separation

Effects such as soundstage and imaging/separation etc. do rely on those fine details, and these are insufficient to get a good impression of space and the positions of sounds within that space. The BE Free8 is not the best at this, but does present a cohesive and enjoyable sound nonetheless.

Music genres good for and why

The Optoma Nuforce BE Free8 is probably best with modern pop and dance etc. but will cope well with all genres, so long as your digital music files are of good quality. 128kbps MP3 files from 2004 will probably make themselves known!

Summary

Optoma Nuforce’s new BE Free8 is a truly wireless model, with two capsules to put in your ears and that’s it – no cable even runs between them. For music, they are quite adequate for using whilst exercising or on the move but may not cut it for fans of subtle details.

The post Optoma Nuforce BE Free8 Bluetooth Earphone Review – Wireless without the wire appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Optoma Nuforce BE6i – Trendy Transmission

Wireless earphones are commonplace now; so much so, it’s not necessary to draw undue attention to the fact these days. However, it’s nice to see differing styles coming along and the Optoma Nuforce BE6i is a smart addition to this earphone category.

Pros:

• Nice case included
• Many eartips and fitting accessories
• Well tuned for many genres
• Good build

Cons:

• Charging port is a bit fiddly

Design and appearance

First impressions last, and in this case, the impression is definitely of a well-heeled smartness; these are the sort of earphones you can listen to during a job interview. The backs of the capsules are magnetic, so the earphones can be worn securely around the neck between uses.

The design lends itself to the ‘down from the ear’ wearing style so anyone wanting to have the cable going up, over the ear will need to consider an alternative model.

The case is a very practical, semi-rigid affair which is perfect for use with the BE6i.

Durability & build quality

Cable and control/battery construction is good with no obvious weak points. The capsules feel quite solid as well, without being too heavy.

Comfort

There’s not much to say here; once in, the earphones can more or less be forgotten about provided you have a good fit with the supplied eartips and accessories. There’s plenty to play around with, including some ‘fins’ which sit in one of the various folds of the ear and help keep the earphones in place.

Sound characteristics:

The Optoma Nuforce BE6i has a warm sound with a bit of non-intrusive treble presence, good as an all-rounder.

• Bass

Bass has some emphasis, but the BE6i isn’t a bassy model per se. It extends well with good sub-bass at a realistic level and perhaps a bit more of a boost in the mid-bass region.

• Mids

Mids on the BE6i are very clear and unaffected by the bass. Harmonics and other directional cues are well rendered and vocals are sweet and well textured.

• Treble

There is a bit of sparkle about the BE6i; it’s not likely to cause any discomfort though. Cymbals are shimmery without straying into strident territory, and muted trumpets are just raspy enough. Detail here is very good for a wireless model.

• Soundstage & Separation

Lower frequencies benefit from very good separation and give a good impression of bass width; this continues up the frequency spectrum making an impressive presentation for a wireless model. Harmonics are largely preserved, making for an engaging and enjoyable time with the BE6i!

Music genres good for and why

As noted above, the Optoma Nuforce BE6i is a good all-rounder. Some may prefer more bass than the BE6i has to offer, but this depends on previous earphones and expectations. The BE6i is great with current studio music such as pop and rock, with more refined genres such as classical doing very well also since the midrange is so clear.

Summary

The new wireless BE6i from Optoma Nuforce is as smart as it is nice-sounding, giving a good impression of your music and complementing your outfit a treat. With a large range of accessories to get a perfect fit, the BE6i is a superb wireless choice.

The post Optoma Nuforce BE6i – Trendy Transmission appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Etymotic ER3-SE and ER3-XR Review

Not content with the splash it’s made with its updated ER4 designs of late, Etymotic is back with more! Or is it less? The ER3 models cost a good chunk less than their ER4 counterparts, so what does this mean in terms of value?

Pros:

• Classic Etys for the price
• Removable cable
• Crystal clarity
• Carry case

Cons:

• Basic selection of tips
• Etymotic deep fit not for everyone

Design and appearance

The ER3 versions are slightly more sensitive than the ER4 versions, with half the impedance too. This may have been done with an eye on the portable market, where some handsets may have struggled to get up to a good volume with the ER4 type.

Accessories are minimal with the ER3-SE and ER3-XR; along with the earphones themselves, we get a case and three pairs of tips. The two sizes of Etymotic triple flange, and a pair of ER38-14F type foam eartips.

Durability & build quality

The capsules are the most obvious change, with plastic-coated aluminium being used instead of the glossy metal look of the ER4. The cable has a good strong, but pliable feel to it, but it is a bit thinner and is not braided at the top. Apart from the slightly lighter weight and less glossy look of the ER3-version capsules, things are much as we’d expect from the ER4-XR and ER4-SR.

Comfort

No change here; Etymotics need to be inserted deeply to be at their best, and people either love the isolation they bring or hate the deep insertion of the eartips. Fortunately we love the isolation enough to ignore any initial discomfort, and the eartips seem to settle into place after a few seconds.

Sound characteristics:

Like the ER4 designs, there are two flavours of ER3. The Etymotic ER3-SE is the more strait-laced and neutral of the two, with the ER3-XR giving a little more bass warmth. Both however sound a little more gentle in terms of the midrange than their ER4 brethren. Where we sometimes get the feeling of jeopardy with the ER4 models, with an errant xylophone or female vocalist threatening to poke us in the ear, the ER3 versions are a little more laid back. Etymotic’s clarity has not been sacrificed though; the midrange presence is just a little more humane.

Bass

Sub bass on the ER3-SE gives a nice bit of wobble which is low in the mix, but there alright. The rest of the bass is as well controlled as expected, but understated; bass junkies need not apply. There’s some great control here though. Meanwhile, the ER3-XR has more of that skull-rattling sub bass and more slam generally. We’re still not in basshead territory, but if you like your sound a little warmer with more weight given to cellos and drums then the ER3-XR may be for you.

Mids

Mids are always a treat as far as Etymotic’s offerings are concerned, and the ER3-SE does not disappoint. While the midrange level is slightly lowered when compared to the ER4-SR, all the other attractive features are there along with a wonderful sense of spaciousness. Details are well rendered, though not with the sharp relief of the ER4-SR. Many will feel the ER3-SE has more comfortable sound when compared to the ER4-SR in terms of the sound, but with all its harmonic and spatial treats largely intact.

With the ER3-XR the extra bass presence vies for attention along with the midrange, so the midrange seems to lose its power slightly. The spaciousness of the ER3-SE is tempered, and the extra bass warmth takes its place. The ER3-XR is still excellent when it comes to midrange action and detail, but is arguably the better all-rounder of the two as the tuning works well with genres such as modern dance music.

Treble

The ER3-SE does not sound treble-heavy but there is some nice extension up top. If your recordings were made on analogue tape, you’ll probably know about it from the tape hiss coming through. Treble is at around the same level as the midrange after a smooth transition, and consequently does its job well whilst keeping the midrange in the spotlight.

The ER3-XR has the same treble presence as the ER3-SE, but the fatter low end gives the tuning a warmer feel.

Soundstage & Separation

With the detail and midrange clarity on offer from both these models, we can say that both soundstage and separation are a treat. The sound has a nice ‘out of the head’ feel without seeming unnatural and with good depth too. Separation and imaging are near perfect, if a bit toned down when compared to the dazzling ER4 designs.

Music genres good for and why

The ER3-SE is a great choice for acoustic music, classical and opera. With modern pop and dance genres, it can depend on your sensitivity to the upper midrange frequencies as to whether they work or not, along with your taste for bass. The ER3-XR is good for any genre you can throw at it, and we went through many!

Summary

Etymotic’s ER4 models are now available for cheap (albeit under the ER3 moniker), but their character is largely intact. Those who like to hear the smallest thing within their music needn’t study the fine print of credit card agreements in order to afford the ER3-SE and ER3-XR.

The post Etymotic ER3-SE and ER3-XR Earphone Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Sennheiser IE80S – An Old Classic Reborn

Sennheiser is a company which seems to have painted itself into a corner in recent years; how do they improve on the models they’ve had on sale for the past few years? It’s either a testament to their design teams of years past, or a damning indictment of the design team they have now. They’re recycling old designs, and adding an ‘S’ so we can’t pluralise without causing confusion. What trickery is this?

Pros:

• Nice warm sound
• Good assortment of tips and accessories
• Carry case

Cons:

• Could have more midrange clarity
• Straight jack on cable

Design and appearance

A new version of an old classic is simple enough to achieve; round off the corners a bit more and you’re done! There’s probably more to it than that, but this new IE80S bears more than a passing resemblance to the original IE80. However it’s a good look, and Sennheiser obviously knows that it’s not necessary to have flashy designs or gimmicks to impress their fans.

The supplied case is sturdy and sleek, with a non-removeable foam insert which houses the earphones when not in use. Also there are plenty of eartips and accessories, such as a pair of earhooks if your cable keeps popping over your ears.

Durability & build quality

There’s nothing bad to write here, the Sennheiser IE80S is as expected with excellent build quality. The jack on the cable is a straight one which may be a problem for some; if you want a right-angle jack then spare cables for the IE80 will fit just as well.

Sound characteristics:

The tuning is what we expect from Sennheiser; there’s no drastic departure from the typical Sennheiser sound which is warm, with a smattering of treble to keep things interesting but staying comfortable.

Bass

Bass is fairly plentiful and should please lightweight bassheads; however the dials on the sides of the capsules can be adjusted to give a bit more grunt. Control is pretty good, but where it’s loose it feels as if that’s the way it should be. It’s loose with a touch of panache! Subbass is quite powerful if it’s in the music, and you’ll be in no doubt

Mids

The level of the midrange is lower than the bass, but pretty clear and enjoyable nonetheless. Harmonics are clear enough and there is no congestion here, but there is the feeling that the IE80S could do better; at least with the supplied eartips. Aftermarket eartips (such as Blackbird) seem to improve things in this regard.

Treble

Treble is gentle; we’re fond of a warmer sound but the IE80S still takes some getting used to. If you’re a fan of an airy, shimmery sort of presentation then the IE80S is not for you. If however you’re a fan of laid-back music then the IE80S is a contender. Plenty of detail is present though; it comes across as an extension of the midrange with a smooth transition.

Soundstage & Separation

Soundstage on the IE80S is pretty good for an IEM but there’s a lack of depth to the sound, apart from the bass which appears to spread out in front of the listener. Separation is good, but limited with the supplied tips. If you’re splashing out on the IE80S, then try some tips such as Blackbird or Spinfit.

Music genres good for and why

Due to the bass presence, the IE80S is best suited to dance music, pop and rap. Fans of classical, jazz and opera may still enjoy those genres with the IE80S but they will likely miss the airiness and the reverb ‘feel’ of the space the recording was made in.

Summary

Sennheiser’s souped-up IE80 design is here, and it’s an enjoyable listen for many modern genres but some may find the sound lacking air and space for genres such as classical.

The post Sennheiser IE80s Earphone Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Best Full Size Over-Ear Headphones 2017

We’ve have some of the best full size hi-fi headphones from under £100 to over £1000 from 2017. The reviews are designed to help you choose from the massive selection of hi-fi and audiophile headphones available with open back and closed back designs. From established brands like Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser, to new creative brands like MrSpeakers and Audeze.

Scroll down for in depth reviews of our favourite full size open back and closed back headphones.

Shop: Visit our Full Size Headphones Store

Read More: Best On-Ear Headphones Buying Guide

Best Full Size Headphones Under £50

Edifier H840

The closed-back Edifier H840 has audio quality which belies its entry-level price. Low-cost headphones can emphasise the bass a little too much but the Edifier H840 has a good balance throughout the frequency range, with midrange and treble coming through with impressive clarity. Bass is there too, and prominent enough to give a bit of weight to those basslines without stealing the show.

Build quality is also impressive for headphones at this price; they are quite rugged, but light and comfortable as well.

They can be used either in the home or as a portable model, since the closed-back design offers good isolation from exterior sounds and the H840 can be powered sufficiently by a phone, or a portable music player.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

If you’re on a budget, there is no need to compromise on sound quality. For the asking price, the Edifier H840 represents amazing value.

Best Full Size Headphones Under £150

Sennheiser HD461G (Android) or HD461i (Apple)

Sennheiser’s HD461 models come in two flavours, depending on whether you have an Apple handset (with a headphone socket!) or an Android handset. Designed primarily for portable use, the HD461 models can also be used with home equipment as they will still work in standard 3.5mm stereo sockets.

Also, the cables are available separately as spares, so if you change your phone from one type to the other, you only need to get the appropriate cable for full functionality with your new handset.

The design is light and comfortable with a sound akin to what Sennheiser generally prefers; a warm comfortable sound with enough sparkle at the treble end to keep things interesting and vibrant, but without any danger of listener fatigue. The HD461 design hsa a little bit of extra bass than usual however, so if you’re a bass fan then these are worth a try.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

For a bassy accompaniment at home or on the move, the HD461i (or HD461G) will give full functionality with your handset, whether Apple of Android. With spare cables available too, there is no need to change your headphones if you change your phone (iPhone 7 notwithstanding!).

SoundMAGIC HP151

The new HP151 from SoundMAGIC is perfect for those who want to treat themselves to some excellent sound and build quality, but without breaking the bank. The HP151 comes with a sturdy carry case and an extension cable for more options if listening at home, but is otherwise suitable for portable use, being of a closed-back design. Be aware however that whilst the HP151 will work well with commercial genres, classical or similar may require more amplification than a phone/handset can provide on its own, as those music types generally have quieter recordings, with less dynamic compression applied during production.

The HP151 sound has a good amount of well controlled bass from its 53mm drivers, and midrange/treble are clear and present. It’s a comfortable sound, and it is not likely that listener fatigue will set in.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

The HP151 is a fantastic all-rounder, with a bassy yet crisp sound. It has a spacious and wide presentation considering the closed back design, and it looks really good too!

READ MORE: SoundMAGIC HP151 Full Review

Best Full Size Headphones Under £350

Final Sonorous III

Final makes some excellent-sounding headphones with great build quality too. Their closed-back Sonorous range encompasses many models, but the Sonorous III is a point of interest as it gives some amazing sound quality for the price. With slightly boosted bass and treble, the Sonorous III gives a little added shine to your tracks without going overboard. The low impedance of this design makes it suitable for using with a portable device or phone, for enjoying your collection in the home, or out and about.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

The Sonorous III is a favourite here for its relaxed, natural sound. However the Sonorous II is also noteworthy as a more neutral version, giving a more faithful rendition of your recordings and particularly suitable for classical and acoustic performances.

Best Full Size Headphones Under £800

Now we start to enter the price range of diminishing returns; for instance, headphones costing £800 will not sound twice as good as those costing £400, but if you are intent on raising your headphones game, these smaller improvements are still worthwhile to make your music collection come alive again.

Beyerdynamic Amiron Home

Beyerdynamic has impressed us for many years and continues to do so with new models such as the Amiron Home. With sterling build quality and sound quality alike, the open-back Amiron Home does everything well. All frequencies are very well balanced with each other, with treble a little gentler than quite a few of Beyerdynamic’s previous models.

So the sound is natural and smooth; ideal for relaxing at home (where else?), and quite suitable for any music genres that can be thrown at it.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

The Beyerdynamic Amiron Home is a real treat to use, and is as comfortable to wear as it is to listen to.

READ MORE: Beyerdynamic Amiron Home Full Review

MrSpeakers Aeon

A relatively new maker, MrSpeakers has certainly caused a stir with their line of planar-magnetic models recently. Not least with the Aeon, a lightweight design which hits heavy with some excellent sound quality. The design lends itself well to portable uses, although additional amplification may be required if using with a phone.

The sound is fairly well balanced with a little extra bass and lovely clear midrange and treble. The Aeon is well suited for all genres, but a real treat with anything likely to get you moving!

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

If your portable audio game needs updating, the MrSpeakers Aeon is one to look at, although the Aeon is equally enjoyable if you like to stay put.

READ MORE: MrSpeakers Aeon Full Review

Best Full Size Headphones Under £1000

Focal Elear

Focal’s recent additions to their lineup show a slight move away from the generally brighter sound of their previous models, to a gentler more laid-back sound which nevertheless gives detail in spades. The Elear is an exquisitely comfortable model to wear also, and gives the impression of the venerable HD650 but with a little bit of extra treble presence.

The Elear is not a light model at 434g, so this may be worth bearing in mind but the sound is very pleasing indeed.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

French company Focal has produced a real hit with the Elear, and it is easy to understand how; they’re great fun!

READ MORE: Focal Elear Full Review

Pioneer SE-Monitor5

Pioneer’s new SE-Monitor5 is where headphones start to get sumptuous and luxurious! Build quality is like an executive car, and the plush padding is much the same. The SE-Monitor5 may be a little heavy for some at 480g but they are made for relaxing at home and swallow up the sides of the head with their huge earcups.

The sound is as you would expect from Pioneer at this price, with well-controlled bass doing just what it needs to according to the music genre being enjoyed. Higher frequencies follow suit and remain faithful to the music, only to add a little bit of extra excitement and glamour to proceedings, whilst staying very relaxing.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

The SE-Monitor5 is incredibly comfortable and bound to please anyone who gives them a listen.

READ MORE: Pioneer SE-Monitor5 Full Review

Best Full Size Headphones Over £1000!

If you have got bored of circling Switzerland in your yacht then you’re probably lost, but you may be wealthy enough to consider the following models for your floating games room! These higher priced models may seem as steep as a black route ski slope, but those who accept no compromise will find the following offerings very interesting.

Sennheiser HD800S

Sennheiser is no stranger to premium headphones, and has followed up on the excellent HD800, released a few years ago. Some felt that the HD800 is incredibly detailed but at the cost of a certain amount of musicality, so Sennheiser now has the HD800S which offers a little more in the way of ‘soul’. Bass is very responsive to what different music genres need without overdoing things, and midrange/treble give some excellent soundstage and imaging with a slightly gentler presentation when compared to the older HD800.

The HD800S is however just as comfortable as its older brother the HD800; these models can be worn for hours on end with no trouble.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

The HD800S is a very popular model and with good reason; it’s as enjoyable as it is comfortable and has a fair amount of visual impact as well.

READ MORE: Sennheiser HD800S Full Review

Audeze LCD-4

Audeze has plenty of models, but at the top of the range we have the planar-magnetic LCD-4. Top notch build quality is to be expected at this price, including unique drivers which feature NASA technology in their nano-scale diaphragms. These light, thin diaphragms can move very quickly with no inertia, making transient response times very fast, and bass precise with nice extension and very good control.

Made from 30 year old Macassar wood, the earcups are set off by bright silver grilles making the LCD-4 a treat to look at as well as to listen to. As well as the excellent bass, midrange and treble follow in good order with a smooth transition between, but with perhaps a slightly recessed midrange, putting bass and treble at the forefront of the presentation.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

For the last word in headphones, this may need to be your first stop!

The post Best Full Size Headphones To Buy In 2017 – Expert Reviews appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Edifier W360BT Bluetooth Earphones Review

READ MORE: Best Earphones Buying Guide

Edifier is one of those brands which has escaped our attention in recent years; granted, there are a lot of low-cost brands out there but we are quite impressed with what a relatively humble sum of cash can get from this one. For instance, we have recently been getting familiar with the Sennheiser Momentum HD1 and they are very nice too. But how about cutting the cost in half?

Pros:

• Superb comfort
• Good battery life
• Decent sound for pop and the like

Cons:

• Vented capsules affect isolation

Design and Appearance

Like the Momentum HD1, the Edifier W360BT consists of a horseshoe-like base which sits around the neck, and this houses all the controls and the batteries, leaving the capsules feeling nice and light in the ear. Controls are on the upper side of the left ‘heel’ of the horseshoe, with charging port and on/off switch underneath.

The capsules have a vent each, and this lets a certain amount of exterior noise in. Great if you are planning to use these for the purposes of exercise and jogging as it’s good to be aware of your surroundings, but the noisy London Underground may cause a few problems if you’re commuting.

It’s not certain if the word ‘attractive’ is suitable for the W360BT as they are not really designed to draw attention to themselves, but they don’t look bad.

Durability and Build Quality

The Edifier W360BT is built for lightness, and due to the way it is worn, has not been made to be particularly rugged. Just comfortable and light. Cables from the neckband part are reasonably protected by strain reliefs, and that’s about it. To be fair, this design sits up out of the way of most things and the light design seems quite suitable.

Comfort

At 46.5 grams, the W360BT can hardly be felt whilst being worn; there is no weight on the capsules going into the ear either, so if you’re always fiddling around to get a decent fit with your current Bluetooth earphones, these may be worth a try.

Suitability for intended application

As mentioned above, there are several uses these can be put to. They are particularly well suited to exercising, considering the way they are worn and the vented capsule design, but the packaging is distinctly aimed at the mobile/commuter market. For general out and about purposes, the Edifier W360BT is fine unless you find yourself in particularly noisy places a lot of the time.

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READ MORE: Best Sports Headphones and Earphones – Wired and Wireless

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Sound Characteristics

Generally the sound of the Edifier W360BT conforms to what most people find enjoyable, with a slightly elevated bass and a warm sound signature.

• Bass

Low extension is fairly good, and bass makes its mark with enough emphasis for most without going overboard too much. There is a bit of ‘bloom’ here where the bass lacks control slightly. The midrange is not really affected however.

• Mids

Midrange is clear enough to enjoy vocals and the like; there’s no obvious disconnect between bass and midrange which is nice. Also there’s a decent bit of space in there, showing that the midrange has some good control. There’s no danger here with any spikes or extra presence causing potential listener-fatigue, it’s a comfortable listen.

• Treble

Presence here matches the midrange; hi-hats and cymbals are clear and present, with a certain grainy quality which is not unusual for this type of earphone. Brass and saxophones get a nice raw edginess, and again it’s hard to imagine anyone having problems here with fatigue.

• Soundstage and Separation

Soundstage is OK for such a design, although the vented capsules might have improved on this a bit more. Likewise, separation is decent enough with instruments holding their own ground but there’s the sense that they are blending together slightly.

Music genres good for and why

The Edifier W360BT is great with commercial genres like R&B, hip hop and pop, but if you require any more refinement such as with classical music, you might want to consider spending the extra for the Sennheiser HD1 equivalent.

Summary

Edifier’s W360BT is a worthy addition to the current Bluetooth models available, with the neckband taking the weight so we can enjoy music in greater comfort. A good one to take out with you, but try to avoid those very noisy places!

The post Edifier W360BT Bluetooth Earphones Review – Wearable or Terrible? appeared first on HiFiheadphones.