Audiofly AF33M In-Ear Isolating Earphones w/Mic – Product Review

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Summary

Verdict

A serious contender for being the best sounding mobile phone in-ear headphone under £40.

Pros

Stunning sound quality for the price with well thought out mic features and admirable design.

Cons

The cable could be a little sturdier but it would be a bit unrealistic to expect one at this price point.

In-Depth Review

Introduction

Audiofly are based in Australia. Founded by musicians, they design and build headphones striving to bring a detailed sound to their audience. Having released their first set in 2011, Audiofly are constantly pushing the boundaries to create something unique by merging modern, cutting edge technology with the longevity of vintage gear. Their aim is to replicate music in an honest way; to achieve that, they use custom voiced drivers in all of their models, so you never miss a beat!

Description

Audiofly always make sure that their headphones not only sound good, but look great as well. The AF33s are no exception – they appear stylish without being too flashy and as such, they can appeal to the younger and more mature audience alike. The AF33Ms are available in six different colours (Corset White, HiRise Purple, IshGreen, Lounge Yellow, Selvage Blue, Slycat Black) satisfying even the choosiest headphone lovers out there. Even though they do not come in the box, the 400 series of Comply Foam tips do fit the earphones so if you’re looking for the best combination of comfort and isolation, we recommend trying them out.

Included peripherals

Inside the box there is a nice microfibre storage pouch to keep the ‘phones safe and some additional Silicone eartips (4 sizes in total) for improved isolation.

Application

The Audiofly AF33M is the perfect companion for your smartphone. Driving these headphones is very easy so the standard headphone-out of most smartphones should be able to handle them with ease and drive them to sufficient volume levels. This model comes with an in-line mic, but unlike most headphone models, where the control and the mic are connected, they are kept separate for more practical use. This is called ClearTalk™ – the control button is located on the yoke (where the main cable separates into the individual earpieces), and the actual mic is located closer to the mouth on the left hand side.

Describe the sound

As with most budget earphones, the first thing that strikes the listener is the bass. However, it is usually because the amount is so big that it overshadows the whole scope – not with this model, though! The thing that struck us about the bass is that it is nothing like your average budget dynamic driver bass. It is tighter and more balanced; it still hits hard but no sign of the common, overpowering, muddy bottom end that most budget sets can offer. The midrange is clear and clean, albeit a bit recessed and as such it is definitely not the centre of the presentation. Vocals are still great, though you should not expect the forwardness of in-ear monitors. The treble is surprisingly lively especially for a budget set. Nice and sparkly but not fatiguing at all. Overall, it is hard to find a fault with the set considering the price point, deserves its place amongst the best in-ear headphones on the market.

Comparisons

Below £50 you may also have a look at the following models: SoundMAGIC MP21, RHA MA450i, Sennheiser MM50ip, Audio-Technica ATH-CK400i, SoundMAGIC E10M.

Product Information

Product type – In-Ear Isolating Headphones w/Mic

Price at the time of review – £39.95

Product Link – Buy Audiofly AF33M

Denon AH-NCW500 Noise-Cancelling Headphones – New Product Announcement

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The HiFi Headphones team is pleased to announce that the new noise cancelling on-ear model from Denon, the AH-NCW500 is now available to be purchased on our website.

Denon’s AH-NCW500 Globe Cruiser on-ear headphones feature a 40mm driver, an integrated amplifier and AAC and aptX decoding for CD quality audio over a wireless connection. The design’s control wheel also allows you to effortlessly control Apple iPhone, iPad or other Bluetooth devices. Incorporating advanced noise cancellation circuitry via Bluetooth 3.0 wireless or a wired connection, Denon’s Globe Cruiser AH-NCW500 headphones actively eliminate unwanted ambient noise, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your music, wherever you are. They are available in silver and black.

  • Denon AH-NCW500 Globe Cruiser – Your Perfect Travel Partner
  • Noise Cancelling Circuitry Blocks Ambient Noise
  • CD Quality Wireless Sound (Bluetooth aptX)
  • Full Control of Apple Devices & Smartphones
  • Pentagonal-Shaped Earpads with Memory Foam
  • Flat Folding Design for Convenient Packing
  • Two-Axis Earcup Connection for Perfect Fit

To purchase the unit, please visit our website:

Buy Denon AH-NCW500 Headphones

Ultrasone IQ In-Ear Audiophile Headphones – New Product Announcement

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The Hifiheadphones team is pleased to announce that the flagship in-ear model from Ultrasone, the IQ is now available to be purchased on our website.

Ultrasone’s IQ has a housing constructed using superior metal die casting, its unique ergonomics make it possible for the IQ to be worn comfortably for a extended listening periods. A dynamic 8mm driver, made with Ultrasone’s powerful Neodymium magnet, is responsible for the robust and precise bass playback. A micro driver (balanced armature) is controlled by a frequency separating filter, this is responsible for the reproduction of crystal-clear mid and high-tones. The outstanding isolation against background noise allows you to concentrate completely on the music.

  • Metal earphones with bi-directional hybrid driver technology
  • Superior strength metal die casting earpieces
  • Suited for many mobile phones and MP3 players
  • OMTP Adapter for smartphone use
  • Two high-quality detachable cables
  • Multimedia cable equipped with mic & remote
  • Five pairs of silicone eartips and two pairs of Comply Foam Tips
  • Includes flight adapter and luxury leather transport case

To purchase the unit, please visit our website:

Buy Ultrasone IQ In-Ear Headphones

Sennheiser Momentum Headphones

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Summary

Verdict

Natural materials, modern look and superior sound combine in the Momentumto create the perfect headphones for style conscious music enthusiasts.

Pro’s

Lightweight design, attractive looks, very comfortable fit and fantastic build quality.

Con’s

Larger than some would like as a portable headphone, also doesn’t fold.

In-Depth Review

Introduction

Sennheiser’s new Momentums are a stylish model designed to look and feel good in any situation. Dark brown leather and black leather with red stitching, are the two available colour ways.

Description

The looks of the Momentum are very engaging, handsome with beautiful quality leather pads and headband. The design looks modern enough but has classic elements too – Sennheiser have been very successful in creating a desirable object. They feel very comfortable, due to the very best quality leather being used, but stay put well considering clamping force is minimal.

Included peripherals

Included in the momentum box is a headphone cable with smart controls, a second standard headphone cable, an attractive hard carrying case and 6.35mm jack adapter.

Application

Not only great for wearing in the home using with your Hifi set up, the computer or with the TV but they are also small enough to make a great commuting or travel headphone. They come with a protective carry case which also has space for other portable audio equipment. Compact headphones you would want to take everywhere!

Describe the sound

So are the Momentums all looks and expensive leather? The short answer is no. Sennheiser have worked just as hard on the sound as well as the looks and come up with a comfortable yet fun sound which is on the right side of relaxed. Plenty of detail and instrument separation in the sound but they never step into fatiguing territory, soundstage is short but imaging impressive for the size of the cups. This sound fits very well with the target group of commuters and business travellers who will use them. It’s certainly not boring, tons of bottom end is there when needed, bass drums have a satisfying thump without ever kicking you in the eardrum. Altogether the sound is warm and smooth without becoming sluggish – a hard balance to find!

Comparisons

Few headphones offer the same luxury in this travel size. Look at the Beyerdynamic DT1350, Ultrasone Edition 8, Focal Spirit One or Parrot Zik.

Product Information

Product Type – Closed Back Portable Audiophile Headphones

Price at the time of review – £259.99

Product Link – Buy Sennheiser Momentum

Sennheiser HD800 Open Back Audiophile Headphones – Product Review

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Summary

Verdict – With the largest and most advanced drivers of any headphone on the market, together with cutting edge design, the HD800 set new standards in high-fidelity listening.

Pro’s – Great build quality, reasonably lightweight and very comfortable fit.

Con’s – Looks and size may not suit everyone.

In-Depth Review

Introduction – The HD800 sits at the pinnacle of Sennheiser’s headphone product line. Part of the Club Orpheus range of high end listening devices, they are available through a very select set of dealers. This is due to the extra aftercare services provided (a 10 year warranty!) and that Sennheiser would prefer for customers to have the opportunity to try their flagship before they buy. These serious headphones will require an equally serious dedicated amp to get find everything they are capable of.

Description – The looks of the HD800 are surely Metropolis inspired, handsome in a future retro way. When picked up the unit feels beautifully constructed – this makes the lack of design subtlety more endearing as you can easily believe their shape is integral to the success of final object. They feel very comfortable, whilst staying put when turning your head the clamping force exerted is minimal.

Included peripherals – Sennheiser HD800 and luxury storage box.

Application – The HD800 has one job, to get you excited about all your favorite recordings from the most comfortable chair in your living room. You might want to kick everyone else out though as they are open backed and will allow sound to leak in.

Describe the sound – This is where they should and do really impress, vocals feel very real and the handling of bottom end is impressive, punchy with no feeling of sluggishness. Cooler than the usual Sennheiser house sound, detail is very evident without becoming too introspective. Instrument separation is coherent with good width to the stereo image, the angled drivers must help with the perception that the audio is definitely in front of you. Although some may find the soundstage a little in your face with some recordings, many will think that Sennheiser have nailed the spacial presentation here. With a quick and rhythmic feel which works great for stringed instruments, percussion stopping quick passages from becoming confused whilst retaining for more gentle and drifting pieces. The HD800’s seem to do well with most genres, aggressive when needed and capable of subtle sweetness, a well rounded and extremely accomplished offering.

Comparisons – If you want similar quality your wallet could also take a beating from the Beyerdynamic T1, HifiMAN HE6, Fostex TH-900, STAX SRS-3170

Product Information

Product Type – Open Back Circumaural Audiophile Headphones

Price at the time of review – £1000

Product Link – Buy Sennheiser HD800

Cypher Labs AlgoRhythm Solo -dB – New Product Announcement

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The Hifiheadphones team is pleased to announce  the Cypher Labs AlgoRhythm Solo -dB  portable DAC from CypherLabs,  is now available to be purchased on our website.

Cypher Labs introduces the AlgoRhythm Solo -dB, combining all the functions of USB line-in accessory for Apple devices, with an audiophile grade 24/192 DAC in a single, portable package. Fully balanced output is included to support world class audio amplifiers.

  • d is for DAC – USB audio from computers and Apple devices
  • B is for Balanced output from source to amplifier
  • Large capacity battery charges while playing, up to 14 hours
  • USB audio resolution up to 16/48 from Apple devices
  • USB audio resolution on Mac or PC up to 24/192
  • Fully balanced analogue line-level output (4-pin)
  • S/PDIF and single ended outputs
  • Volume output optimised for all headphone types, including IEM and planar headphones
  • Fast re-charge time about 3.5 hours
  • Designed and assembled in the USA

To purchase the unit, please visit our website:

Buy CypherLabs Algorhythm Solo -dB

Sennheiser HD800 – New Product Announcement

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The Hifiheadphones team is pleased to announce that the flagship full-sized model from Sennheiser, the HD800 is now available to be purchased on our website.

Decades of experience in innovative headphone technology and design have resulted in the creation of the HD800 flagship headphones in Sennheiser’s audiophile range. With the largest and most advanced drivers of any headphone on the market, together with cutting edge design, the HD800 set new standards in high-fidelity listening.

To purchase the set, please visit our website:

Buy Sennheiser HD800

Sennheiser MM550-X TRAVEL Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones – Product Review

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Product Information

Product type – Wireless Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones

Price at the time of review – £349.99

Product Link – Buy Sennheiser MM550-X

Summary

Verdict – Portable headphones with built-in noise cancellation, bluetooth connectivity and mic/remote features.

Pro’s – The MM 550-X sound good enough that you’ll feel like it’s money well spent, especially when using it wirelessly. Its active noise cancellation, while not class leading, is still fairly effective; if you want the best and don’t need a wireless pair, the PSB M4U2 is a great alternative.

Con’s – There is huge choice in the world of portable headphones, if you do not require all of the features on offer here you can save yourself money without experiencing a big drop in sound quality.

In-Depth Review

Introduction – This is Sennheiser’s portable that does it all, and at £300 most people would be expecting that. Although they are not the most beautiful cans we have ever seen the build quality is excellent, they are more a model of German Efficiency than a statement of urban sophistication. The Sennheiser MM550X are circumaural with soft pleather earpads for long listening sessions in comfort. Despite the generous cups they are a small size, easily transportable. The right earcup is laden with controls, not surprising given the list of available functionality. Extremely flexible headphones, impressive technology, of course as with all wireless headphones, not all of the money goes into sound quality. The MM550Xs pair with a phone easily, charge over USB, and they fold easily into a portable carry case.

Included peripherals –As well as a lovely pair of foldable travel headphones, you get – USB mains charger, USB charging cable, in-flight adapters, an audio cable, a neat carry case and the user manual.

Application – Headphones don’t come much more feature-packed than the Sennheiser MM550X. CD quality apt-X, NoiseGard sound cancelling technology, TalkThrough (a button turns on the external microphone so you can talk without removing the headset), Invisible microphone, cable option when power runs out, neodymium drivers, SRS WOW HD technology, integrated track and volume controls. To save on weight, most of the unit is plastic, Steel runs through the headband to give flexibility and strength.

Description – Sennheiser say the battery should provide 8 hours of listening with Bluetooth and NoiseGuard enabled, 10 hours Bluetooth without NoiseGuard and 20 hours using the cable with NoiseGuard activated. If you are looking for all the features on offer here then the MM550X are a good bet, however if you want the best sound quality then a well isolated closed back cabled headphone may be a better fit. If the NoiseGuard is the most appealing feature there are similar quality alternatives which have excellent noise canceling abilities for less.

Describe the sound – The sound quality is pretty impressive in standard mode although maybe a tiny bit Mid shy. On most occasions Bluetooth headphones still don’t match up to their cabled cousins but here the sound is nearly identical in cabled or Bluetooth mode, feeling much better than most traveling wireless headphones. Sennheiser’s NoiseGard canceling technology is a different matter though, audibly degrading the great sound from standard mode. The SRS WOW HD button is in our opinion a pointless addition. It seems to add an aggressive smile curve EQ simultaneously making the top end a little scratchy and the bass muddy and over emphasized.

Comparisons – Also see Sennheiser PX210, Jaybird SB2, Volume DH-B38, Sennheiser MM400X.


SoundMAGIC WP10 Digital Wireless Headphones with DAC – Product Review

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SoundMAGIC WP10 Digital Wireless Headphones with DAC

 

Product Type – Full size Digital Wireless Headphones with built in DAC

Price at the time of review – £239

Product Link – Buy SoundMAGIC WP10

Verdict – A well thought-out wireless set with innovative features at a great price point

Pro’s – The list of features and uses for this wireless headphone with a USB DAC make it a superb all rounder. The headphone itself has the same incredibly comfortable pads as the SoundMAGIC HP100 and HP200 wired Full size headphones, is reasonably lightweight and has a well thought out set of controls placed thoughtfully on the left ear cup.

Cons – It isn’t the most expensive wireless headphone on the market, but not too far off. To make up for the price just about every accessory you could need has been included.

Introduction – SoundMAGIC have been an up and coming headphone brand for the past few years. With a few awards and a lot of recommendations from magazines and gadget blogs, SoundMAGIC have been expanding beyond the low budget – high performance IEMs they are already well known for. Perhaps looking to demonstrate their clear technological know how by producing these advanced wireless headphones. Because of the features, sound quality and comfort the WP10 must be taken seriously, particularly if you have a range of uses in mind for your cable free cans.

Description – Features of the Transmitter include an onboard USB DAC as well as an analogue input – it is tiny and so incredibly portable. The WP10s have a functional look – they look like headphones! – But are by no means un-attractive. Controls are simple and well placed.

Included peripherals – SoundMAGIC WP10 package comes with the wireless headphones themselves, an excellent carry case, the transmitter/DAC unit, USB mains Charger and cable, 3.5mm to RCA cable, 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable and a physical instruction manual.

Application – This is a very clever set of headphones, the transmitter also contains the USB DAC for superior sound from your PC or Mac, connection cables for pocket sized media players and RCA for home HiFi connectivity. Should you run out of battery power while out and about it is possible to use the included cable to keep on listening! SoundMAGIC have really tried to cover every eventuality.

Describe the sound – Sound quality is well above that of any RF headphone and superior to that of Bluetooth headphones as the WP10 uses a 2.4G 16 bit CD quality connection. The sound signature is bright and clean with punchy bottom end. It’s not really fair to compare the sound to a similarly priced cabled headphone; the DAC technology in the transmitter obviously costs a pretty penny. The WP10 gives clean audio with decent sound stage which helps live recordings and film sound and feel realistic.

Comparisons – Similar features to the king of wireless headphones, the Sennheiser RS220, but less luxury oriented and more application rich. Very usable for portable applications they have the edge over the Sennheiser RS160 as the SoundMAGIC transmitter is smaller and more advanced.

Parrot Zik Wireless Active Noise Cancelling Smartphone Headset – Product Review

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Product Type – Circumaural, wireless headphones with smartphone features

Price at the time of review – £349.99

Product Link – Buy Parrot Zik

Verdict – Perfect portable choice for those looking for innovative features and a lovely design.

Pro’s – Beautifully designed and filled with technology, plenty of opportunity to adjust sound to taste.

Con’s – The high sound quality is not retained when using the cable in passive mode.

Introduction – The Parrot Zik, designed by Philippe Starck, is a wireless headphone with gesture control, noise cancelling technology and their very own app. Surely designed to be a gadget fan’s dream audio accessory, they have a host of features including a sensor that pauses the music when you take them off.

Description – The aesthetics are really impressive, the ear cups are covered with smooth matte rubber, the metal frame is in matte steel finish. Pairing the headphones up using Bluetooth is simple and gives a decent range but the Ziks also feature Near Field Communication (NFC) for quick pairing – a first for headphones – although your music player will need this technology too. The Ziks have their own custom-made Parrot Audio Suite app which is available on iTunes. You can use it to monitor battery life, control noise-cancelling, add a “Concert Hall” effect, which can give the impression of listening in a variety of settings. There’s also EQ so you can fiddle until the sound is just right.

Included peripherals – With your Parrot Zik headphones you will get a Micro USB cable, Line in cable (3.5mm), a Li-ion battery (800mAh), a Protective pouch and a helpful Quick-start guide.

Application – The Parrot Zik will also enable you to make and receive calls when paired to your phone. They use several microphones along with a bone conduction to enable your voice to cut through surrounding noise.

Describe the sound – Sound quality is impressive for a Bluetooth wireless set, as mentioned you have a lot of control so it is hard to describe a distinct sound signature. They are warm with a quite quickly rolled off top end, they have a comfortable and fun sound and in wireless mode have really nice stereo characteristics, they do not retain their character when used with the included cable however, in this passive mode without their technology they are unimpressive.

Comparisons – Also see Sennheiser PX210, Jaybird SB2, Volume DH-B38, Sennheiser MM550X.

Sennheiser IE 800 – New Product Announcement

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The Hifiheadphones team is pleased to announce that the flagship in-ear model from Sennheiser, the IE800 is now available to be purchased on our website.

  • Dynamic linear-phase driver with extremely wide bandwidth (XWB)
  • Very low overall harmonic distortion
  • Oval-shaped eartips for maximum comfort
  • Two protective meshes protect against contamination
  • Attenuated dual-chamber absorber (D2CA)
  • Extremely deep, distortion-free bass
  • Ceramic housing, stainless steel vents and Kevlar coated cable
  • Premium leather carrying case
  • 2-year warranty
  • Available for demonstration – call us now!

Brimming with ground-breaking technologies the IE800 embodies the most innovative portable music solution Sennheiser has ever created. A welcome addition to Sennheiser’s popular audiophile range, the IE800 meets the demands of portable audio with perfect sound and comfort.

To purchase the set, please visit our website:

Buy Sennheiser IE800

Volume DH-B38 Bluetooth Headphones – Product Review

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Product Type – On-Ear Stereo Bluetooth Headphones with mic and remote controls

Price at the time of review – £69.95

Product link – Buy Volume DH-B38 Bluetooth

Verdict – A very impressive sound at an affordable price, great option for those looking for a cord free set below £100. No wires. No worries.

Pro’s – Small yet comfortable on-ear, lightweight and durable. The big surprise is that they sound great, impressive stereo imaging for an on ear. Bluetooth headphones for under £100 often seem a bit bargain basement, the Volumes tick all the boxes for functionality, do not compromise on quality and still come in at a cheap price!

Con’s – None if you have under £100 to spend! AptX CD quality sound would be a great addition but at this price that just seems greedy.

Introduction – Volume is a new audio company proudly making headphones in Taiwan, the brainchild of the son of a British family owned components manufacturing company. After finishing his education in London and becoming disillusioned working in the city he decided to return to Taiwan to make high quality portable audio products at a sensible price. This high-spec, low price philosophy underpins the current collection of Bluetooth headphones with mic and on board controls.

Description –Available in a range of attractive colour ways the Volume DH-B38 has controls for volume, changing track, pause and play. Special features include a high quality omni-directional mic, Class 1 Bluetooth – giving up to 100m range and the ability to fold flat for storage. The headphones themselves are very light and do not clamp making them pretty comfortable for on-ears, the soft leatherette ear cushions are shaped well. Build quality is impressive, no corners have been visibly cut.

Included peripherals – Volume DH-B38 are supplied with a soft carry bag.

Application – If you are looking for some portable headphones for commuting or being mobile in general these have all the features you could need. Listen to music, answer and end calls without having to touch your phone and they should easily fit into an already cramped bag too. Because of their longer than average range they would also work well for listening around the house or getting out in the garden. Low weight and comfy fit means they also work very well in the Gym.

Describe the sound – A typically warm feel for consumer headphones, punchy smile curve EQ with much more detail than you would expect. The bass will handle everything from chart pop to huge electro basslines. Classical and Acoustic don’t sound bad either as they have a bit of sparkle to them, the fact they do sound good does mean you can hear small Bluetooth sonic problems which less capable headphones might mask. The sound is fun and involving but not too aggressive for everyday use or long journeys.

Comparisons – Also see Sennheiser PX210BT, Jaybird SB2, Parrot Zik, Sennheiser MM-400X.

Sennheiser RS 220 – New Product Announcement

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The Hifiheadphones team is pleased to announce that the flagship wireless headphone model from Sennheiser, the RS 220 is now available to be purchased on our website.

  • Open, circumaural digital wireless headphone
  • Uncompressed lossless digital audio transmission
  • Transmitter features analogue audio input
  • Range of up to 100m (line of sight) from sound source and up to 30m indoors
  • Power on/off, balance control and volume control integrated on headphones
  • Multi-purpose transmitter also functions as ‘easy-charge’ cradle and docking station
  • Extremely comfortable and luxurious velour ear pads
  • Rechargeable, integrated batteries
  • Extended 5-year warranty
  • Available for demonstration – call us now!


Audiophile listening has gone wireless: Sennheiser’s RS 220 takes cable-free listening to new realms. This digital wireless headphone system delivers pure sound performance matching high-grade wired headphones.

To purchase the set, please visit our website:

Buy Sennheiser RS220

Top 5 Best Wireless Headphones For The TV – Buying Guides

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A great application for wireless headphones is using them for watching TV. Whether it’s a matter of not bothering anyone around you or helping someone who has hearing problems, they can be incredibly useful. Our wireless headphones selection provides plenty of options to choose from, let’s have a look at five of the best for watching the telly.

Sennheiser RS120-II Wireless Open-Back Headphones

The RS120-II is a supra-aural wireless headphone system that uses FM (frequency modulation) to transmit the audio signal. The unit consists of a FM-transmitter and a receiver – the transmitter also acts as a charger for the headset, which uses two rechargeable NiMH AAA batteries included in the box. This set connects to devices through Analogue inputs, which can either be a headphone socket, SCART or phono RCA – thankfully, these connections can be found on most TV’s apart from the most recent.

The RS120-II provides great value for money as the sound quality is surprisingly good for an FM set, spacious and smooth with plenty of bass power. Due to the use of FM, the range is up to 100 metres and the signal can even go through walls. The volume level and other control elements are conveniently located on the side of the headset for easy use. As a plus, the transmitter is also wall-mountable.

TV Ears 2.3 Voice Clarifying Wireless System

The TV Ears 2.3 wireless set uses infrared technology to transmit the signal to the receiver, which in this case is a stethoscope-like headset. The receiver goes into the ear providing the user with good isolation and despite the relatively deep insertion, it is surprisingly comfortable thanks to foam ear tips. Due to the infrared transmission, the sound is clean with no background humming. As with all infrared units, the transmitter and the receiver do have to be in line of sight otherwise the signal can cut out.

As with the Sennheiser RS120, the transmitter also acts a charger for the headsets but in this case it can charge up to two at the same time. The set is highly recommended for the hearing impaired because of built-in “Voice Clarifying Circuitry” that elevates speech above background noise. The TV Ears 2.3 connects to Analogue audio outputs, in case you would like to have the TV speakers turned up whilst using the headset, make sure either the TV SCART or RCA/phono outputs are used. This will allow you to set the volume of the speakers separately from the headset.

Sennheiser RS170 Wireless Headphones

The Sennheiser RS170 is a Kleer Digital Wireless System designed for home listening. This closed back headset provides an audiophile quality music or home cinema experience with the added benefit of not having cabling in the way. As with most Sennheiser wireless systems, the multi-purpose transmitter also functions as an ‘easy-charge’ storage cradle and can transmit a signal to up to four headsets. The base unit also has an effective range of 80 metres.

The sound is smooth, well-rounded and detailed. Thanks to the switchable listening modes – Dynamic Bass and Surround Sound – it can be fine tuned for the intended purpose, be it music or TV listening. The leatherette ear pads do a fine job in providing a comfortable fit and due to the circumaural design nobody will be bothered by sound leakage. If you are not concerned about the leakage and would prefer a more airy and open sound have a look at the RS180 as this headset has open back construction.

SoundMAGIC WP10 Digital Wireless Headphones

The SoundMAGIC WP10 is a full size digital wireless headphone, supplied with a very small transmitter for use on the move or to transport the unit easily. There is a large selection of accessories including a mains charger, the transmitter unit, a USB cable, a mini jack 3.5mm to RCA cable, a short 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable and a long 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable. You can keep these accesories in the excellent rigid carry case, also included. The WP10 is a very clever set of headphones, the transmitter also contains a USB DAC for superior sound from your PC or Mac, connection cables for pocket sized media players and an RCA lead for home Hifi connection. Should you run out of battery power while out and about it is possible to use the included cable to keep on listening! SoundMAGIC have really tried to cover every eventuality

The headphone itself has the same incredibly comfortable pads as the SoundMAGIC HP100 and HP200 wired Full size headphones, is reasonably lightweight and has a well thought out set of controls on the left ear cup. Sound quality is well above any RF headphone and superior to that of Bluetooth headphones as the WP10 uses a 2.4G 16 bit CD quality connection. The sound signature is generally bright and clean with deep but restrained bottom end.

Sennheiser RS220 Wireless Audiophile Headphone System

Sennheiser RS220 is the wireless headphone we have all been waiting for. Ever since their appearance on the audio market there have always been complaints from audio enthusiasts as the sound of wireless headphones has never compared favourably to their cabled counterparts. The Rolls-Royce of the wireless scene is set to change this perception as it delivers sound performance that matches some of the better wired models. Be it digital (optical or coaxial) or analogue, the RS220 has been designed to merge with any audio setup.

The set uses what Sennheiser call Direct Sequenced Spread Spectrum (DSSS) technology to provide the user with uncompressed, CD quality sound. The open back design enables the set to deliver an airy and transparent presentation. The entire system has been crafted using premium quality materials; the luxurious velour earpads deserve a special mention as they provide exceptional wearing comfort for longer listening sessions. Would you like audiophile sound with the benefit of cable free usage? Look no further, the RS220 will satisfy all your listening needs.

Sennheiser RS220 – Product Review

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Product type – Full size Digital Wireless Headphones with built in DAC

Price at time of review – £379.99

Product link – Buy Sennheiser RS220

Verdict – Would you like audiophile sound with the benefit of cable free usage? Look no further, the RS220 will satisfy all your listening needs.

Pro’s – This is the best and most fully featured wireless headphone on the market at present. Digital and analogue inputs and outputs make this unit very easy to integrate into an existing set up. Not only are the Sennheiser RS220 very serious sonically but they are also well made and extremely well thought out, the controls on the cups work well and the whole unit has a luxury feel.

Cons – This is also the most expensive wireless headphone on the market. As Sennheiser themselves have the excellent RS170/180 models some people may not need to stretch themselves this far.

Introduction – Sennheiser are probably the best known name in headphones, the RS220 is part of a big refresh of their higher end models. Not only is this the top Sennheiser wireless headphone but almost certainly the best and most fully featured wireless headphone anyone has made to date. Because of the available features and sound quality it is bound to become the wireless headphone of choice for custom installers all over the world. Rather than the Kleer technology used in previous Sennheiser digital wireless systems, the RS 220 uses DSSS (Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum). The difference is that DSSS transmits using an uncompressed audio signal over 2.4 GHz.

Description – Features include an onboard DAC with both optical and Coax input and output as well as analogue (RCA) input and output. All functions including source, volume, left and right balance and On/Off can be controlled from the headphone. The design looks great and should be acceptable in the most grand of living rooms

Included peripherals – Sennheiser RS220 comes with the wireless headphone unit, transmitter/DAC/charging unit, 6ft RCA cable, RCA to 3.5mm adaptor, Coaxial cable, CD and physical instruction manual.

Application – For currently available wireless headphones these really are as good as it gets. There is no way to use these in any portable sense although the range is good for wondering around the house, perfect for avoiding cabling on the living room or bedroom floor.

Describe the sound – As the Sennheiser RS220 is a wireless headphone it is not really fair to compare the sound to a similarly priced cabled headphone, the technology that comes in the transmitter obviously makes up a large portion of the manufacturing costs. Putting this to one side the sound quality is really impressive, plenty of well behaved bottom end that never becomes overbearing. From the mids up they are very clear, the EQ seems sensibly placed to work for a whole host of music or indeed watching HD films. Very clean sound which avoids any harshness, quick and defined. Definitely the most detailed wireless headphones we have heard, the sound stage is wide which helps live recordings feel natural and realistic.

Comparisons – If you want to go down in price from here look at the RS170/180 although they lack the internal DAC features.