BEST AUDIOPHILE WIRELESS HEADPHONES

Final ZE8000 MK2 – ANC TWS Earphones £199.00

Finals flagship TWS earphone combines striking aesthetics with top-tier performance. They deliver sound quality that rivals the best wired earphones as well as providing all the modern features you’d expect from TWS earphones. The distinctive shape of the buds also provides insane levels of comfort and the app is a treat to use. All the bells and whistles are there, a great overall package.

BEST WIRELESS HEADPHONES FOR GAMING

Audeze Maxwell Playstation/Xbox Wireless Gaming Headphones – £319.00/£349.00

The Audeze Maxwell is quite literally a masterpiece. After years of relentless innovation building first class gaming headsets, Audeze has finally released the successor to the Penrose, The Maxwell. This is a serious piece of kit for serious gamers (and us casuals too!). An upgrade to the Penrose in every conceivable way, the Maxwells sound quality, wireless performance & battery life (80 Hours!!!) have all been pushed to the limits of possibility. After 1.5 years being on the market it is still easily sthe best wireless gaming headset out there today.

What Our Customers Say:

I loved my Penrose headset and have had the Maxwell for just over a week. It is an upgrade in every single way. I am so happy I pre-ordered it back in December and it really does live up to the hype. The new chassis is really sturdy and has a premium feel to it. The sound is even better than the Penrose, no issue whatsoever with the wireless connections. I am so chuffed and will be using this for years to come. Great job Audeze

Josh Adams 5* Review www.Hifiheadphones.co.uk

BEST BUDGET WIRELESS HEADPHONES FOR BATTERY LIFE & ANC

1More SonoFlow HQ51– £89.99

If earphones aren’t your thing, then the SonoFlow HQ51 makes a perfect upgrade choice under £100. With its extended 70 to 100-hour battery life, advanced ANC, The SonoFlow HQ51 also features an all new DLC 40mm dynamic driver. Comfortable to wear, it is equiped with Bluetooth 5.4 and has 12 EQ modes, it’s ideal for immersive listening at an affordable price. The SonoFlow is a great alternative challenger to the pricier options out there from Sony, Bose and Sennheiser.

BEST TWS FOR AUDIOBOOKS AND TV

final x Dragon Ball Z – Frieza – £70.00

Final Audio have collaborated with Dragonball Z to produce 3 iconic and unique models based on main characters. The Frieza model is specifically designed for ASMR content. But it is also perfect for watching movies, animations and videos In general. Absolutely one to consider, if you use your earphones more for Audiobooks/ Movies over music (although they are great at that too!). They are also really small and light, so perfect for those with smaller ears or those who find it difficult to find a pair of buds that are comfortable. Read our review here: final x Dragon Ball Z – Frieza – Review

BEST BUDGET WIRELESS HEADPHONES

1MORE SonoFlow SE HQ30 Portable Wireless Headphones – £55.00

The SonoFlow SE HQ30 offers powerful ANC, exceptional call quality, and a staggering battery life that outlasts pricier models like Bose. For its price, it delivers unbeatable value with premium features where it counts.

BEST WIRELESS HEADPHONES FOR SPORT / RUNNING

Cleer Audio Arc 3 – Open-Ear True Wireless Sports Earphones- £229

Following the runaway success of Cleer Audio‘s open ear Arc earphones, the Cleer Arc 3 has taken the concept of an open wireless earphone to a whole new level. The Cleer ARC 3 surpasses the ARC II with cutting-edge enhancements in sound quality, including Dolby Atmos and head tracking technology, delivering immersive 360-degree surround sound. Under the hood is an advanced Qualcomm S5 platform, upgraded dynamic drivers, and a refined bass technology that redfines open-ear audio standards. Enhanced AI features like two-way noise reduction, adaptive sound balancing, and voice control bring a more intelligent earphone and allows for a seamless experience in terms of usability, especially while on a run. The redesigned, stretchable ear hook allows for a better, customized fit and the charging case has had a complete overhaul.

BEST BUDGET WIRELESS EARPHONES FOR SOUND QUALITY

1MORE Aero ANC TWS Earphones – £70.00

The 1MORE Aero offers a solid mix of great audio quality, effective ANC, and a comfortable fit for an exceptional price. The Aero stands out by bringing the premium head-tracked spatial audio to the table—something usually only found in much pricier models. If immersive audio for movies and TV is your thing, the Aero is a fantastic value choice.

BEST TWS FOR USING AS A SLEEP AID

1MORE SleepBuds Z30 – £89.99

The 1MORE Sleepbuds Z30 are designed specifically for restful sleep, with their feather-light 2.7g build and compact size making them perfect for side sleepers. Their snug fit ensures comfort throughout the night without causing discomfort, even when lying on your side.

BEST TWS FOR BRAND MERCH

Final x Ultra Seven ZE3000 Ultra Guard TWS – £139.00

Final Audio’s Ultra Seven inspired earphones look and sound the part! They are essentially a re-skinned ZE3000 with a motif of Ultra guard from Ultra Seven. Part of the Ultraman umbrella, this series was first released as a live action television series in 1967! As you can see, the earphone body, charging case, and packaging of these earbuds are designed in the image of the uniform and helmet of the Ultra Guard paying homage and celebrating the 55th anniversary of Ultra Seven. A perfect piece of kit if you are into Japanese culture and want to stand out from the rest of the crowd.

BONUS ROUND – BEST WIRELESS SPEAKER FOR YOUR DESKTOP

GravaStar Mars Pro V2 Bluetooth Speaker– £199.00-£280.00

Not technically a headphone but this is one for those who love Sci-fi. The Mars Pro V2 is a Bluetooth speaker with all the character of a sci-fi movie and the sound to match. This speaker is as much an art piece as it is a piece of tech, with unmatched build quality, portability, and style. It would look at home in any gamer’s space. You can even pair two together to create surround sound!

Have We Missed Anything Out?

Please feel free to leave a comment below and let us know…

The post Best Wireless Headphones 2024: On-Ear, ANC, Earbuds, Audiophile appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Compact and Comfortable for listening all day

The Cleer Enduro ANC has enough clamp force to sit tightly on your head without being uncomfortable. they would stay on during moderate exercise which is good too.

Cleer’s Enduro ANC is a compact headphone, and they don’t sacrifice the comfort. Whilst wearing the Enduro ANC, I noticed that the earpads are deep enough that my ears are were pressed against the driver. They are soft enough to be comfortable over long periods of time. I really liked the headband, as it is well padded and the weight distributed evenly.

How good are the features?

The Cleer Enduro ANC is a wireless headphone that is compatible with most Bluetooth devices. Cleer has made an app for them too which allows you to fine tune the ANC and Ambient noise control. There is also an EQ in the app along with a battery percentage indicator. The app is available from Google Play and the App Store so both Android and Apple devices are supported.

Call quality is a standout feature here, whether it’s a zoom call whilst working from home, or a phone call when out and about. The microphone quality is superb. I tested it a few times, and the other person could always hear every word with clarity. Another impressive feature for the price.

Huge battery life!

They have a stated battery life of 60hrs with noise cancelling on. This will vary depending on the volume you listen at, but you can expect excellent battery life from them. They have Active Noise Cancelling which works well in environments where you have a constant background noise (like public transport).

They are also closed back, so the passive isolation is already very impressive. Unlike many ANC headphones, the ANC on these doesn’t seem to affect the sound quality. This is quite surprising and very impressive.

The Enduro ANC also has Ambient Noise Control. This allows you to hear your surroundings without taking the headphones off. This works really well if you need to listen out for announcements on public transport or planes, and don’t want to take the headphones off. It could also come in handy for active use where you want to be semi-aware of what’s around you.

The Cleer Enduro ANC come with an Aux to USB-C cable for when you need to use them with a wired device, which is really handy. Overall Cleer have packed a lot in to these headphones. Do they impress when it comes to the actual sound quality?

How do they sound? (the important bit)

Bass

Plenty of punch and extension. There is a definite lift in the bass compared to a neutral tuned headphone, which is ideal for a portable headphone. These are engaging and fun to listen to. You will never lose track of the beat. Yet at the same time it’s not overly emphasised so as to drown out the mids and highs. I really enjoy how full and punchy the low end is, without being bloated. Not something that’s easy to get right in my opinion.

Midrange

Vocals and guitars still cut through the mix. They are slightly recessed overall, with a mild U shaped sound signature. There is enough detail to keep you focussed on the music, and they don’t have a single hint of harshness or peaks in the midrange that could cause fatigue. They are energetic and smooth at the same time, with fun being the best way to describe their presentation. The Enduro ANC has been tuned for you to enjoy the music.

Treble

These don’t do the typical lower treble boost to introduce a false sense of sparkle and energy. They are smooth in their transition from the upper midrange into the treble region. They instead boost it a little farther up the frequency range, which means there is still a great sense of air. Cymbals have good presence, without any fatigue inducing properties. They might roll off slightly early, but the treble presentation is very well done with without any harshness.

Genres and Soundstaging

The Cleer Enduro ANC handles most genres well. Engaging enough for rock, yet punchy and full enough for modern pop and hip-hop. They sound best with genres that are more up-beat.

Soundstaging is average, which is not a problem. They have a more direct and punchy delivery, you don’t need concert hall width for that.

The post Cleer Enduro ANC Wireless Headphone Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

The new budget offering from Lypertek offer up an engaging and fun listening experience. Without forgetting the finer details.

Fit and Comfort

The SoundFree S20 have a smooth inner housing and slightly elongated nozzle, which allows for a great fit with the right eartips. They are not heavy and sit securely. Excellent if you want to use them for active sports use.

Comfort is excellent due to the lightweight design and smooth edges. They also sit fairly flush in your ears and allow for long listening sessions with ease. The angle of the nozzle really does help when it comes to the comfort of these.

Features

The SoundFree S20 has a claimed battery life of 8hrs, with an extra 40hrs from the charging case. I have found this claim to be quite accurate during listening sessions but it is of course volume dependent. The case supports wireless charging and has a USB-C port too. They use Bluetooth 5.0 and support SBC and AAC codecs. The S20 is IPX5 rated, this means you can use them in light rain showers. I would not advise taking them swimming or in the shower.

There is a small button on them, placed at the top so you don’t press them into your canals when using it. This button has multiple functions (play/pause/skip tracks/volume up and down), and also allows you to activate ambient mode which allows you to hear external noises. This mean you no longer need to take them out to listen to the outside world. There is a microphone on each earpiece for calls, I found call quality to be acceptable but not a stand-out feature of the S20.

Sound

Bass

Full bodied, punchy and fun is how I would first describe the bass on the S20. However they never become muddy or overblown. There is a subtle lift in the sub-bass and you can easily hear the rumble. Bass is well balanced with good punch and control. Those who found the PurePlay Z3 a little too neutral, will enjoy the extra warmth down low on the S20. Whilst the bass is certainly present and boosted, the S20 don’t sound overly bass heavy or dark.

Midrange

The bass is well controlled, which allows the midrange to cut through with authority and power. Male vocals sound clean without any added body, the detail inherent means you can hear all the emotion present in the vocals without much veil. Female vocals fare equally as well. Without any real peaks in the upper midrange, guitars and vocals are well separated and each have their own space within the soundstage. Overall excellent performance in the midrange, that gives real insight into the recording.

Treble

Clean, precise and ever present the treble thankfully isn’t just an afterthought. Carefully tuned to be there, but without causing fatigue, often the most tricky part of a frequency response yet Lypertek have pulled it off. Yes, for this price you cannot expect the most faithful tonality but thankfully you can cleanly hear cymbal crashes and violins. They are not dull or veiled, instead they are exciting and add a bit of air to the sound, however they are not the most detailed in the treble region (partly due to bluetooth compression).

Genres and Soundstage

The S20 lend their hand to most modern genres, bringing out the best in Rap and Hip-Hop whilst handling heavier rock with ease too. They wouldn’t necessarily be my first pick for classical and jazz, but these are aimed at the active general user and the sound works well for that.

Soundstaging is actually rather impressive for the price and design, whilst not overly wide there is accurate placement of instruments and good layering between them too.

Enjoy all things Lypertek? Check out more News and Reviews on our Blog here!

The post Lypertek SoundFree S20 Wireless Earbuds Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Before we get to the reviews, the microphone on the final UX3000 is also something that should be talked about. It’s simply incredible for an over-ear headphone. When outside they do a great job at suppressing noise on your end so the other party can hear you loud and clear. With great tone too. When used indoors these are perfect for working from home with very accurate and faithful voice reproduction. It doesn’t sound like you are using the mic from the headphones, they are that good.

THE REVIEWS

Forbes: “The UX3000 are a genuine Bargain” Ear Fidelity: final UX3000: Reccomended

ZReivews: “I like the sound signature of these…” Jabba Reviews: “Where have the UX3000 been all my life?!”

Makeuseof: “Excellent ANC, Trademark Sound” MightyGadget: “For £120, these are a superb pair of ANC headphones”

The final UX3000 also comes with an AUX cable and has a wired mode! (see the picture above).

Do not forget to check out all of our reviews and news of Final products throughout our blog!

The post final UX3000 Recommended by Everyone! appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Tech Radar awards the Pureplay Z3 2.0 their Editor Choice Award ; “Lypertek continues to punch above its weight and outside of its pricing bracket with the PurePlay Z3 2.0 true wireless earbuds, a stellar-sounding and well-priced package.

Trusted Reviews offers Lypertek’s Pureplay Z3 2.0 its very own Highly Recommended Award: “The PurePlay Z3 2.0 are another excellent pair of affordable true wireless from Lypertek, with the new app and features extending its lifespan and adding more value than before.”

Soundphile’s Review puts it bluntly: “If you are in the market for all-round solid earphones with a “mainstream” tuning, these are the ones to get, period.“

This is still only the beginging for Lypertek and their wonderful creations. With their recently released Z7 adding into their ever growing pool of products, we are certain that we will see even more innovation and newer arrivals in the months to come.

For a full features breakdown please watch our video review here or you can read all about them here.

The post Lypertek’s PurePlay Z3 2.0 true wireless earphones raking in awards! appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Cleer Ally Plus II – Noise Cancelling True Wireless Earphones

An update to the previous Ally Plus, the Cleer Ally Plus II has a planned release for March 2021, and they come with some impressive specs and features.

• 10mm Graphene Drivers
• 11+22 Hours Battery Life
• Adaptive Noise Cancelling with Feed Forward & Feed Backward Technology
• Custom EQ and ANC Control via Cleer+ App
• Wireless Charging
• IPX4 Water and Sweat Resistance
• SRP: £129.99

Cleer Roam NC – Noise Cancelling True Wireless Earphones

This is a brand new model for 2021. The Cleer Roam NC will be Cleer’s entry level noise cancelling true wireless earphone model. With a planned release in April, and and SRP of only £59.99 – this is definitely a release to look out for.

• 5.8mm Custom Dynamic Drivers
• 5+10 Hours Battery Life
• Noise Cancelling Technology – blocks up to 25db
• Custom EQ and ANC Control via Cleer+ App
• IPX4 Water and Sweat Resistance
• SRP: £59.99

Cleer Enduro ANC – Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

Packed with impressive features, the new Cleer Enduro ANC wireless noise cancelling headphones look to be a winning combination of price and performance. Release planned for February 2021.

• 40mm Ironless Drivers
• 60 Hours Battery Life
• Active Noise Cancelling + Ambient Mode
• Custom EQ and ANC Control via Cleer+ App
• New Qualcomm QCC5126 Chip
• SRP: £149.99

Cleer Crescent – Smart Audio Speaker

We are very excited about this one. The award winning Cleer Crescent smart speaker looks stunning, and with features including Google Assistant, unique room settings and a dynamic listening experience thanks to the 10 speaker drivers – the Crescent looks to revolutionise the smart speaker. Planned to be released January 2021.

• Unique 8 Linear Array Full-Range 40mm Drivers
• plus 2 Back Firing 3.3″ Woofers
• High-Res Audio Streaming
• Unique Room DSPs – Stereo Widening, 3D and Room Fill
• Google Assistant
• SRP: £699.99

The post Cleer announce new headphone and speaker releases at CES 2021 appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Design and Functionality

The MW200 is a neckband Bluetooth cable that allows you to convert your MMCX earphones into a Bluetooth set. It’s a flexible rubber neckband with solid plastic end parts that house the electronics and controls, these are finished with a tempered glass faceplate. It’s a well built, and good looking neckband that is also comfortable in use. The cable sections I feel are a little too long though, and could have about 3-4cm cut off without hindering the fit. The cable section has moulded ear hooks so it is for use with earphones that fit over-ear rather than straight down.

Feature wise you get full controls on the left side of the MW200, with volume controls (these are separate from the sources volume), play/pause and on/off. You can also use the play/pause to skip tracks, and there is a microphone on the unit for calls. The MW200 supports all the latest Bluetooth codecs for the highest quality Bluetooth playback (Aptx and LDAC etc…). The MW200 paired easily and the range seems very good, battery life is also great at up to 11hrs in LDAC mode and 14 in SBC. There is plenty of volume to power most IEM’s currently on the market too.

Sound

I’ve mainly been using the MW200 with Final’s flagship IEM the A8000, because they really are ruthlessly revealing of the source material and also enjoy a bit of power behind them. I’m glad to report that the MW200 doesn’t have any problems with noise, and there isn’t any noticeable hiss when using it. I will mention that I have also been using it with LDAC from my Pixel 3a using Qobuz streaming.

The MW200 has good power and volume, there is plenty of detail and an overall crisp and clean sound. Of course, Bluetooth is still limited and there was a drop in resolution over playing the A8000 out of a high-end DAP. However when out and about this drop is not as noticeable as when critically listening, and the MW200 does a truly great job at decoding and amplifying the signal. I was really testing the limits of the MW200 by using it with the A8000, but pair it with something a bit more affordable like the Oriveti OH300 and you get a superb sounding wireless setup for under £500. Much better than any current wireless offering on the market at least.

The MW200 really doesn’t impart much of it’s own sound on to the IEM’s of choice, which is great in my opinion, you can get the Shanling app though which includes an EQ. This EQ does not work when using LDAC codec though. If you are used to using your IEM’s with an excellent source, please remember there will be slightly lower resolution, mostly in the treble region, again this is more a limitation of Bluetooth and not necessarily the MW200’s fault.

The post Shanling MW200 Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Hey everyone, John here. Lypertek are new on the scene, and they have arrived with a bang! Their latest model is the PurePlay Z3: True Wireless earphones that look and feel as good as some of the pricier models out there. These are going for £99 so could be quite the steal! Let’s find out.

BUILD

On opening the Lypertek PurePlay Z3, the first thing that strikes me is the supplied charging case; it doesn’t look like your usual £99 product. The case actually reminds me of Sennheiser’s £250 True Wireless model… just saying. The material outer coating feels great to touch and shows that they mean business. There’s nothing cheap about the build here! The case opens and closes with a solid feel, and the battery level lights add to the sleek design. Then there’s the earphones themselves. Lypertek has gone for a simple design that looks attractive and very well built; they have a minimal look that’s been finished nicely.

COMFORT

The PurePlay Z3 sits very comfortably in my ear, they have managed to angle the sound tube perfectly to give a secure and solid fit. Supplied with the earphones are a selection of eartips, including Lypertek’s own Flexifit foam tips. For me, the foam tips provided the best fit in terms of comfort and sound. When trying the PurePlay Z3 yourself make sure to try all of the supplied tips in order to achieve the best fit for you.

FEATURES (size, isolation, accessories)

Lots of features have been packed into the PurePlay Z3. In terms of controls, you can play/pause, skip tracks, increase/decrease volume, take calls and enable your voice assistant all from the buttons on the side of the earphones. I really like the way the buttons have been placed, they are easy to press and do not cause any discomfort when used. Pairing is very easy with the PurePlay Z3. The earphones turn on as soon as they are removed from the case, then with two button presses on either earpiece, the PurePlay Z3 goes into pairing mode, then you can find them on your device. Whether you pair to the right or left earpiece doesn’t matter: once you connect to one of them, the earphones are ready to use.

SPECS

The PurePlay Z3 uses the latest wireless technology, supporting Bluetooth 5.0 as well as aptX and AAC audio codecs. Battery life is very impressive. You get up to 10 hours of use when the earphones are fully charged, and then with a fully charged case you can get a total of up to 70 hours while out and about! This is one of the highest ratings I have come across. You also get an IPX7 waterproof rating which will protect the PurePlay Z3 from sweat and rain, ideal for those long gym sessions or a run in the rain.

SOUND QUALITY

Listening to the PurePlay Z3, I would never have associated this level of sound quality with a sub £100 True Wireless earphone. These instantly grabbed my attention with their crisp and dynamic sound. Lypertek have tuned the Graphene coated 6mm driver extremely well.

Bass Response

Bass comes across well controlled and punchy. There’s power here without getting bloated and I never get the feeling of too much bass. The PurePlay Z3 goes low and provides weight while allowing the mids to breathe.

Midrange (Instrumental/Vocals)

Midrange is crisp and cuts through without being too forward for my tastes. Vocals and snares sit nicely in the mix without getting lost, and whether listening to intricate jazz rock, pop or ambient electronic, the PurePlay Z3 handles different genres well without ever sounding muddled.

Treble (Extension)

Up top, the PurePlay Z3 provides definition and space without harshness or the risk of fatigue. Treble has a smooth edge, which delivers a focused and engaging sound. While they don’t have the widest sound, soundstage provides depth and the level of separation will allow you to pick out where sounds are coming from.

Microphone

Call quality is very impressive with the PurePlay Z3. The microphone does a great job of picking out speech, providing clear call quality.

CONCLUSION

In terms of build and sound quality, I’d say that the PurePlay Z3 definitely competes with the big (and pricier) brands such as Sennheiser, RHA, Samsung, Apple and Jabra. Then when you factor in the £99 price tag, the PurePlay Z3 becomes serious True Wireless competition. In my opinion, the Lypertek PurePlay Z3 is a no brainer for those looking for a new True Wireless earphone.

The post Lypertek PurePlay Z3 True Wireless Earphones Review & Video appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

SoundMAGIC are on a roll right now with their releases. First the E11 and E11C – already gaining numerous 5 star reviews. Then the E11D – their first USB-C dedicated earphone; and now the E11BT Bluetooth earphones. How do they hold up against the rest of the range?

Aesthetics and Build Quality:

The packaging is pretty standard for SoundMAGIC, with the addition of a front window flap – showing off the earphones along with a nice close up picture of the housing. Inside you get a selection of silicone eartips, USB charging cable and a carry pouch.

SoundMAGIC has gone for a neckband design with the E11BT. The design is neat and feels very well built. The batteries are placed either side of the neckband and there is an inline 3 button control and microphone for playing music and taking calls. The cables are the right length so they don’t flap around, and call quality is also very good as the microphone height is ideal.

Features and Comfort:

The specs for the E11BT are pretty impressive. You get the latest Bluetooth 5 technology which helps towards the sound quality, a transmission distance of up to 13 meters and improved battery life. The SoundMAGIC E11BT will give you up to around 20 hours of continuous talk time. I have also found out that with general use, battery life lasts and lasts. The manual states that you can expect between 48 and 60 hours of continuous playback and from my experience with the E11BT – this seems to be pretty accurate.

These earphones are AAC compatible which is great news for both Apple and Android users. There is no aptX compatibility. However, like aptX – the AAC codec will transmit your music in CD-like 16bit audio quality.

Connecting the earphones is easy. Once powered on, the E11BT automatically goes into pairing mode, with red and blue lights flashing. Then when the model appears on your device you can connect. I really like the battery level that’s shown on the home screen of my phone – very handy. When you’re not using them, the magnetic housings hang nicely around your neck.

Good news for sporty users. The E11BT has a high water resistance rating of IPX4 – this means that they will be able to withstand water splashes from any direction.

The E11BT is very comfortable to wear. The neckband has a smooth finish and is flexible, sitting nicely behind the neck, and the housings are a good size so no-one should have an issue with fit.

Sound:

Unlike other earphones at this price point – instrument separation is superb. Every sound comes through clearly and crisp.

• Bass: There is bass weight and punch coming from the low end – enough to keep the bassheads happy while keeping it controlled so it doesn’t bleed into the higher frequencies.

• Midrange: Mids pop, and cut through effortlessly with an engaging tone. There is a real crispness that is not what you’d normally expect from a lower priced Bluetooth earphone.

• Treble: The treble provides space and clarity and the soundstage is huge. You get a real sense of depth and width from the E11BT.

Conclusion:

Overall, I can confidently say that these are the best Bluetooth earphones going at this price and possibly even under £100. Their sound quality, technology, design and comfort are normally associated with more expensive models – the SoundMAGIC E11BT should be top of your list when looking for a new Bluetooth earphone.

Sound:  5/5

Features: 5/5

Comfort: 4/5

Build: 4/5

Value: 5/5

The post SoundMAGIC E11BT Wireless Earphone Review 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.

SoundMAGIC ST80 Bluetooth Earphone Review

The SoundMAGIC ST80 is the perfect companion for sports enthusiasts, with a big helping of bass, yet crisp and detailed mids and non-fatiguing highs they are sure to keep you motivated on the move.

Pros:

• Overall sound quality
• Fit
• Build quality

Cons:

• Possibly a bit too much bass for some

Aesthetics, Build Quality and Accessories

The SoundMAGIC ST80 looks like most other earhook sports headphones, with a rotation behind the ear hook to securely hold them in place, and a small housing that goes into your ear. There is a battery pack on the cable, with a clip to clip it to your clothing, and a small remote. I think they look great for a sports headphone and do not stick out too much, I also like the black and red cable linking the headphones to the battery pack.

The build quality feels sturdy and these should hold up fine to daily sports activities very well, the cabling feels good, the headphones themselves are a mixture of metal and plastic. There is good strain relief on the connections and being Bluetooth means less cabling to fail, the cable is detachable though (screw on) and also included is a regular audio cable with controls.

Accessory wise you are spoilt for choice, with a nice clamshell carry case, 2 cables (one Bluetooth, one regular with mic and controls), an adaptor that splits the audio and microphone cable for use with computers, USB charging cable, phono adaptor that changes the pinout for apple/android, cable clip, S/M/L Comply foam tips, XS/S/M/L sports silicone tips, S/M/L regular silicone tips and also a pair of bi-flange tips. This amount of accessories and tips means you are guaranteed to find a secure fit, but also have something to store them in when not in use.

Comfort, Isolation, Cable noise and Ease of use:

The ST80 take a while to get used to fitting, once you get the hook behind your hear it is quite easy to get a good fit. The fit is nice and secure due to the earhooks keeping them in place, but the earhooks are soft enough to not cause discomfort. I find them to be very comfortable once you get a good fit and would not have problems wearing them for extended periods of time.

Isolation is good, not as good as fuly sealed units, but enough to block out most of the world around you when you are out jogging, just be careful when crossing the road or are around cycle paths. The good isolation also means they won’t leak sound outwards and annoy people near you.

Cable noise is very low on these, which is important for a sports headphone.

I found the ST80 paired over Bluetooth quickly and easily, I had no transmission issues and the remote was easy to use, if you long hold the volume up it changes track, instead of the usual double tap of the middle button. Something you will need to get used to, but nothing problematic; They charge easily via a microUSB port on the battery pack.

———————————————————————————————–

READ MORE: SoundMAGIC E10BT Bluetooth Earphone Review

———————————————————————————————–

Sound

• Bass

The low end is slightly boosted on the ST80, keeping an upbeat and always present bass line keeping you motivated when out at the gym. Luckily the bass is not a bloated mess, it can extend low and you can feel it as well as hear it, but it does not veil the mid range too much. I find the impact of kick drums to be very impressive, and bass guitars are also very articulate, the only thing they don’t do so well is fast paced heavy metal.

• Mids

The mids are slightly behind the bass in overall quantity, but they are still easily heard, female vocals sound a little better than male vocals. Overall though, the crunch from guitars is aggressive when called for, and there is a good amount of crisp detail. What is very good in the mid-range is the spacial cues and separation, being quite open and expansive.

• Treble

The treble is very well reproduced here, again it takes a slight back seat in the overall sound but it still retains good clarity and air. It does not sound up front, leaning towards a darker, bassier sound. These won’t be for those who want the clearest sound, but for those looking for a fun sound whilst out and about they are perfect.

The soundstage is intimate, but the separation is good.

Conclusion

The SoundMAGIC ST80 can compete with the big boys, like the Sennheiser HD1 in-ear wireless, the ST80 have a bass oriented sound signature but with good clarity overall. The bass is the driving force behind these, but the mids cut though the mix very well offering excellent detail retrieval. The highs are slightly dull which leads to an easier listening experience but not the best overall balance.

The design lends itself to sports use, and the sound for that use is perfect, a nice big bass beat to keep you motivated, but without masking the rest of the sound.

The post SoundMAGIC ST80 Bluetooth Sports Earphone Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Master & Dynamic MW60 Bluetooth Headphone Review

Since coming on the scene recently, Master & Dynamic has certainly made an impact with their simple designs and solid build quality. The Master & Dynamic MW60 fits right in then, being as nice to hold as it is to look at. But how nice is it to listen to? Being Bluetooth, the MW60 will be subject to the same limitations and design challenges as its competitors’ offerings, but how have Master & Dynamic coped with these?

Pros:

• Stunning looks
• Bulletproof build quality
• Intuitive controls

Cons:

• Bass a little out of place depending on genre
• Earpads can be dislodged
• Relatively hard to power in passive mode
• Non-removable internal battery

Design and Appearance

As mentioned in a previous review*, Master & Dynamic products have some lovely styling and have quite a theme running through their range. They’ve taken design cues from the first half of the 20th century and with the incorporated 21st century Bluetooth technology, we have the best of both worlds. Flash Gordon would have used these headphones.

If I was to mention that the Master & Dynamic MW60 is over engineered, I don’t mean that it’s heavy or clunky. Next to a lot of the competition though, it feels as though a lot has gone into this model in terms of the feel of it. It’s like the interior of a new Jaguar car. Plush upholstery contrasts with distinct metal features, making a strong impression of palatial swankiness.

Durability and Build Quality

It’s worth noting that when even the USB charge cable has a braided fabric covering, the standard is quite high! Similarly, there’s a cable for use with the MW60 when the battery is empty (or we just want to save power) with the same covering.

This reviewer tries to imagine what a year or two’s wear and tear is likely to do, but with the MW60 it’s tempting to imagine these after more like 50 years. The paint on the corners may rub off a bit and the earpads might bit a bit more shiny, but apart from any accidental damage, the build quality of the MW60 makes it easy to see them lasting forever.

Given that there’s a non-removeable battery however, it’s unlikely that the full wireless capability will last this long without servicing.

The earpads are firm and well upholstered; they are kept in place by magnets so care is needed when handling the headphones. They won’t fall off without help though!

———————————————————————————————–

READ MORE: Meze Neo 99 Headphone Review

———————————————————————————————–

Comfort

The earpads of the Master & Dynamic MW60 are excellent. Firm yet yielding, they give a great seal and there’s no hint of discomfort whilst wearing glasses either. The headband is quite narrow though; whilst it is padded, the padding could have done with being a bit thicker.

Sound Characteristics

The sound of the MW60 is fairly neutral for a wireless model; there’s a bit of a bass bump but not too much. It’s leaner than a majority of similar designs out there but the MW60 not bass light by any means. The overall tuning is warmish, but with enough presence up top to please sparkle junkies too. With the power off and the cable used instead, the Master & Dynamic MW60 is a little bit subdued but just fine if you’re in a low-power pinch. Some handsets may not have the power to get the MW60 to a decent volume level whilst in this passive mode however, especially if listening to classical music or acoustic genres with less dynamic compression than commercially produced tracks.

• Bass

There’s plenty of rumble and thump going on here; on certain tracks there can be a bit more presence here than intended though. Double bass gets picked up quite strongly for instance, and kick drums go low with power enough to give a feeling of pressure changes on the ears. With most modern genres this works very well and drives things along very nicely.

• Mids

The midrange on the MW60 is clear and maybe a little emphasised here and there; vocals appear quite prominent but there’s no obvious problem with sibilance. Depending on the genre, vocals can sound quite intimate and backing vocals have an impressive width.

• Treble

There’s a limit to the amount of detail which is possible through a wireless Bluetooth connection, so there is a bit of graininess here but the MW60 does a good job of it. Cymbals and hi-hats are there alright, and fit in with the rest of the sound but don’t expect a great amount of shimmer or airiness here.

• Soundstage and Separation

While there is a nice amount of width on display with bass and midrange frequencies, it’s tempting to think that some of it is due to an internal DSP (digital signal processing) function rather than the design of the headphones themselves. This is borne out by using the cable with the MW60 turned off; there is still a bit of width here but noticeably less. Separation is pretty good but sometimes there can be a bit of midrange congestion with a lot going on. Where treble is concerned, we aren’t in any doubt that these are closed-back headphones but they’re designed to be wireless so this is pretty standard stuff.

Music genres good for and why…

Whether in wireless or passive mode, the MW60 really works best with commercial genres such as rap, dance and pop etc. Acoustic genres and classical can be affected with bass frequencies being picked up a bit too much, and these quieter music types tend not to be very loud in passive mode with the cable.

Summary

If you want wireless but not tasteless, then the Master & Dynamic MW60 is a contender. Its build and styling belongs to another era, but it has 21st century technology under the hood and will please those who want classic good looks and no gimmicks.

The post Master & Dynamic MW60 Headphone Review – Bluetooth Beauties appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Sennheiser PXC550 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphone Review

Sennheiser has certainly established itself within the wireless and noise cancellation markets in recent years with it’s ‘MM’ series and earlier models in the ‘PXC’ line, but the Sennheiser PXC550 promises to make things a little more swish with its swipeable control.

Since so many executives are zipping from airport to airport without even the chance to shave, the easy and intuitive operation of the PXC550 gives control of volume and a track skip feature too, freeing up time for more champers and hampers at 30,000 feet. So will Sennheiser eclipse the success of Bose and their popular models such as the QC35 in this field? The evidence is plane.

Pros:

• Great build quality
• Effective noise cancellation
• Fully featured ‘swipeable’ controls
• Cable included for wired/passive listening

Cons:

• Cannot be used when turned off (unless battery is empty)
• User needs to remember to fold down earcups to turn off
• Wearing around the neck is not that comfortable

Design and Appearance

The Sennheiser PXC550 is quite smart looking but not too flashy though; the PXC 550 means decorum, not decoration. This reviewer can be a little self-conscious when sporting such things in public, but the PXC 550 should feel right on any shrinking violet’s bonce. Bowers & Wilkins has had great success with its portable range such as with the P5 and the wireless P7, and the PXC 550 is similar in looks with its black and silver motif.

They’ve done away with the power button and the simple act of unfolding the earcups turns the PXC 550 on. Fold them down again to turn it off. It may be possible to wear the headphones around the neck between uses, but blood flow to the head may be restricted. If you’re in the habit of just removing headphones and putting them down, you’ll have a few flat battery moments until you lose that habit.

Functions are announced by a British female voice; Sennheiser has settled on one that’s not too prissy, but you get the feeling she won’t stand for too much nonsense so don’t press too many of the wrong buttons.

Durability and Build quality

The PXC550 is mainly constructed of high quality plastic with a metal-reinforced headband and some other brushed metal flourishes; the construction is what’s to be expected from Sennheiser at this price point. It’s very nice indeed. There is a cable for use with the headphones when the battery is empty but this could have been better implemented (we’ll come back to this).

Comfort

The Sennheiser PXC 550 sits nicely on the head and there’s no problem with fit, although the earcups are quite snug. Those with large ears may find an issue with this. They may be fine for mooching around in airport lounges and the like, but anything too active may lead to a bit of sweat being shed. This is a problem with any closed-back isolating model of course.

Suitability for intended application

The PXC 550 is a fully featured model; the manual runs to 50 pages and there’s all sorts of little things Sennheiser has thought of. For instance, the PA systems on flights may cut in if you’re listening to the aeroplane’s audio and sometimes this PA audio is a lot louder. The Sennheiser PXC550 knows about this and reduces the volume.

However, given the ‘fold-out’ method of turning the headphones on, there is no clear way of using the cable in order to conserve battery life. If you’re wearing the headphones, then they’re turned on.

———————————————————————————————–

READ MORE: Bowers&Wilkins P7 Wireless Headphone Review

———————————————————————————————–

Sound characteristics

Impressions are of the PXC550 in ‘active’ mode; a decent listen in passive mode will require the battery to be drained fully.

Overall, we have the typical Sennheiser sound but with perhaps a little more upper midrange presence; not a problem but vocals and some instruments can be a bit shouty at times.

The effect of the noise cancellation feature does mute the detail just a little bit when compared to when this feature is turned off, but it has its own benefits of course. The noise cancellation is actually very good indeed and should be quite adequate in many situations.

• Bass

Bass starts nice and low; it gives a very deep and wide sense of space if called upon, but stays out of the picture with genres which don’t need it so much. It’s well controlled and stays put; there’s good definition where it meets the midrange and these higher frequencies are unaffected by any bass bleed.

• Mids

Mids are slightly recessed against the bass, but again this is of no concern as the midrange is clear and uncluttered. However there is a little more presence in the high-mid area, which may give fricatives such as ‘s’ sounds a little more energetic when compared to some of Sennheiser’s wired models.

Vocals are clear and textured, with backing vocals being very good too; there’s a sense of a few singers spaced out nicely during parts with backing vocals.

• Treble

The Sennheiser PXC550 is not an especially airy or crisp-sounding model; but for a wireless closed-back headphone it does OK.

Treble stays faithful to the Sennheiser tradition; it doesn’t draw undue attention to itself but instead appears as an extension of the midrange. There is a seamless transition between the two making quite a neutral sound within the upper part of the PXC 550’s frequency range.

If you like to listen to saxophones but prefer not to hear every bit of spittle within the mouthpiece, then the PXC 550 may be for you.

• Soundstage and Separation

The sound of the Sennheiser PXC550 is good and wide from the rumble of certain bass notes right up to the lustre of hi-hats. It surrounds the listener very well. Instruments and voices are very clear and can be pictured within a 3D space quite plainly; this is one of those things that is affected by the noise cancellation however, but it’s par for the course.

Music genres good for and why

While all types of music will be acceptable the PXC550, it probably suits genres such as pop, rock, r&b; the commercial genres generally.

Summary

The Sennheiser PXC550 is excellent at noise cancellation; watch out Bose! Also the build quality is what we’d expect of a premium Sennheiser product; it’s light but solid. If you can get past the ‘fold-down’ means of turning the unit off, the PXC 550 is definitely a player in the contest for the ultimate wireless/noise cancellation model. It’s a great companion for long and short flights, and certainly beats solo air travel.

The post Sennheiser PXC550 Bluetooth Headphone Review – Welcome to the Fold appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Wireless Bluetooth headphones are getting ever more popular, and we’re worried that we’ll run out of titles. Never mind, as the convenience offered by Bluetooth earphones such as Deewear’s FlyOne Dark will give our wits a chance to catch up with the world of technology. Hopefully.

It’s no surprise that the FlyOne Dark is aimed at the sporty segment of the market, but to be fair it’s not bad when sitting still either.

When turning on, a female voice states ‘power on’ and ‘connected successfully’ when getting going. Since these earphones are from Italy it could be hoped that this would be more representative of that part of the world, but you can’t have everything.

Pros:

• Wireless convenience
• Good sound for exercising to
• Fits in ears firmly
• Sturdy build

Cons:

• Some may prefer a more refined sound
• Some signal issues (depending on handset)

Design and Appearance

The Deewear FlyOne Dark is perhaps designed with function in mind rather than looks, but it does a good job of fitting in with whatever the wearer is doing, whether it be exercise or something more sedate. The cable connecting the left and right earbuds of the FlyOne Dark has a light-reflecting coating on one side to help the wearer be seen during the hours of darkness, which is a nice thought.

Durability and Build quality

The earphones themselves have a strong and solid build, but retain a lightness which will certainly help them stay in the ear, along with the ‘shark’s fin’ attachment which holds things in place nicely. I imagine that any mishaps or falls will not put the FlyOne Dark out of action for long.

Comfort

Everyone’s experience will be different I’m sure, but the FlyOne Dark sits firmly in the ear and the supplied eartips form a good seal with no trouble. The earphones can be worn for extended periods with no discomfort.

Suitability for intended application

Volume can be adjusted and play/pause found easily, although this may require some practice when in the heat of battle. With the cable around the back of the neck, the mic and control is just behind the right ear. It does not seem to cause a problem with being heard if making a call indoors, but this may be different if out in a noisy environment or strong wind.

Battery life is good for an earphone of this type; it keeps on going beyond expectations and should certainly outlast the energy levels of the most enthused athletes. When the battery is reaching exhaustion, the music is interrupted now and again by our female MC stating ‘battery low’ which can be a little annoying but it’s not that often, and it’s probably less annoying that being faced with a flat battery the next day.

Recharging is done via a socket hidden on the back of one of the earpieces; a micro-USB cable is supplied for this purpose.

Sound isolation

Isolation is fair; it’s quite common for joggers to want a certain amount of situational awareness and this should suit them, but there’s also enough to drown out a decent amount of piped-in gym music, the scourge of many a gym-goer.

Sound characteristics

There were some interruptions to the audio in the form of very brief ‘hiccups’ when the signal was slightly broken; almost like pops on a record. This reviewer went shopping last night and the experience was good; when the mind is on other things, these issues are not bothersome. Handsets other than the cheap Android which was used for this review may transmit better, so take this with a grain of salt.

The sound of the earphones can be dramatically affected by the position of the eartips, so when trying them be prepared to get the angle and position right to ensure that they are sounding their best. The earfins will keep them in place once a decent sound is achieved.

Tuned for exercising, the FlyOne Dark gives a good amount of bass with quite a presence in the high-midrange region; good for bouncy genres like dance and pop. The volume control does not communicate with the phone; rather the earphones have their own volume scale so the level can potentially be made to be quite high with the handset volume already on maximum.

• Bass (e.g. punch, low extension)

Bass has a decent amount of body, but the FlyOne Dark is not bass heavy. Bass is fairly well controlled with a good amount of texture; the midrange is left uncluttered. Tracks which feature a low bass or a lot of it will be reproduced quite well.

• Mids (e.g. vocals, acoustic instruments)

There appears to be a slight increase in the high-mid presence when compared to low-mid, and some may think (perhaps ironically) that the FlyOne Dark is a little on the bright side here. It does however make the most of harmonics and vocals which may be a little blunted due to the sound quality limitations imposed by the Bluetooth transmission method. It’s not a bad thing but may be an area of sensitivity for some.

• Treble (e.g. high hats)

As above, the sound quality limitations of Bluetooth do affect higher frequencies more and there is some graininess when it comes to higher frequencies. The effect makes for a more ‘Rock n’ Roll’ sound which is not a problem but it is less refined than some may wish for.

Soundstage and Separation

Soundstage and imaging/separation are not as good as with a wired earphone but are still OK. The selling point of the Deewear FlyOne Dark is definitely the wireless aspect, and deeper aspects of the sound quality take a back seat which is going to be an acceptable trade-off for many.

Music genres good for and why

Anything with a driving beat such as pop, hip-hop and dance music will be best for the FlyOne Dark, with genres known for their subtlety and atmosphere not doing so well

Summary

Given that a lot of other wireless sporty earphones are twice the price of the FlyOne Dark, this represents quite a bargain and may encourage a lot of people to give wireless earphones a try, whether they are joggers, gym goers or casual users.

The post Deewear FlyOne Dark Wireless Earphone Review – More Sounds with No Strings appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Intro

Being New Year, resolutions abound; after Christmas we feel like losing the pounds we gained during the festivities and seek to turn over a new leaf. Cue the Jaybird X2 wireless, which is the perfect pacing partner and will still keep us entertained when we inevitably just take to sitting around the house eating pizza instead. Usually by February.

After the good intentions have become a distant memory however, the Jaybird X2 can still provide good and useful service as a decent wireless earphone when commuting or frying chips.

Design and appearance (e.g. attractiveness, feel)

The Jaybird X2 is sleek and discreet; its looks blend in with all types of lycra and the supplied earhooks help to keep the earphones in; whether running, jumping, or just bent over whilst gasping for breath. The X2 can be worn either with the cable going over the back of the ears or with the cable coming straight down.

Durability & build quality (e.g. cabling, connectors, materials)

The X2 earphones are certainly built with an eye on the needs of exercise fans. They are rugged and will shrug off sweat, splashes of water and the odd impact like it’s a run in the park. The flat cable is well finished and the X2 even comes with some little parts to place on the cable and take up the slack when it’s worn. This cuts down on a lot of the ‘microphonics’, or audible vibrations which travel up the cable when it is in motion.

Comfort:

Certainly with the correct sized earfins, the X2 stays put so we can concentrate on our chosen exercise. There are Comply eartips included in the pack as well as the more familiar silicone ones, so a bit of experimenting gets a perfect fit.

Sound isolation (if applicable)

Isolation is very good, however there’s always a danger with earphones being too effective when we are out and about. The Jaybird X2 earphones hits the right balance between audio seclusion and being struck by a Mack truck. Most of what can safely be ignored will go unnoticed!

Sound characteristics:

The sound of the X2 is aimed at fans of most genres which get the blood pumping. The overall sound signature is comfortable and enjoyable; there is no chance of fatigue with the Jaybird X2 (well, listening fatigue anyway).

Bass (e.g. punch, low extension):

Bass starts low, and is slightly accentuated but has good amount of texture and leaves the midrange relatively uncluttered. Control could be better but is quite acceptable.

Mids (e.g. vocals, acoustic instruments):

Vocals and acoustic tracks are warmed up slightly by the bass presence, but there is still a good deal of clarity here; harmonics and delays are noticeable but may be a little recessed for some tastes.

Treble (e.g. high hats):

Higher frequencies are on the gentle side and for a majority of users, this is preferable. Percussion and other high frequency sounds are there, but have no chance of hurting the ears and hindering concentration.

Soundstage & Separation:

Soundstage is fair, with separation of instruments OK too. The wireless nature of the headphones and the bluetooth transmission method does lead to some compromises when it comes to sound quality, and this impacts on clarity dependent attributes such as soundstage and imaging/separation.

Music genres good for and why:

Being aimed at exercise and training enthusiasts, the Jaybird X2 excels in training-montage friendly genres such as rock, dance, pop and rap. Anything which benefits from an increased bass response will be in the sweet spot and will help to not feel the burn.

Pros:

Perfect for keep fit folks
A good wireless option for general use
Nice selection of accessories

Cons:

Not for those who want a no-compromise sound –
Battery will need to be kept charged

Summary:

Wireless earphones are getting more and more popular, and the Jaybird brand has a good pedigree in this field. The Jaybird X2 earphone is a very neat and effective solution for those who want a wire-free earphone, whether exercise is intended or not!

The post Jaybird X2 Wireless earphones Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

In recent years, Sennheiser has introduced some wildly popular headphones for more portable uses; from the almost ubiquitous PX100 series to the larger closed back Momentum and Urbanite models, both full-size and on-ear.

And never one to sit still, Sennheiser has introduced another flavour for the similarly restless – the Urbanite XL Wireless.

Pros

Wireless operation and track/volume control
Amazing sound
Foldable for easy storage
Comfortable for long periods
Cable can be used to save battery power

Cons

Non-removeable battery
Supplied pouch could be more protective

Verdict

Overall, a very good quality headphone with versatility to match. Perfect for travel and for relaxing at home alike, the Sennheiser Urbanite XL Wireless presents the great Sennheiser sound which anyone can enjoy. A good all-rounder, with which any genre can be enjoyed.

Key Features

The main point of note is the wireless bluetooth feature of course, and there is an intuitive touch-sensitive panel on the right side by which the user can select tracks, alter volume and answer calls. There are no buttons, a more ‘swipey’ approach has been employed, so a tap pauses, a double tap skips to the next track and a swipe up or down changes the volume.

Should the battery become depleted, a universal cable is included with similar functionality so the music needn’t stop.

The battery can be recharged via the supplied Micro-B USB cable, and like its wired forebears the Urbanite XL Bluetooth can be folded up for easy storage.

An audio cable is also supplied to save on battery power or if it is exhausted, and a soft cloth pouch for storage.

First Impressions

Given that we’re no strangers to the previously released Urbanite XL model, the design and extras are no surprise. The stylish looks, solid build and comfortable fit are never a problem to experience again but even so, the extra Bluetooth functionality has stolen the show! With an Android handset playing on one side of the office here, the headphones made it all the way to the other side of the building (some 15 metres) and no drop-outs were encountered.

The control panel on the right side is a very slick feature; however there’s always a chance that a quick touch to adjust the position of the headphones might result in an unintentional track skip but with practice this can be avoided.

Sound Quality

It should go without saying that a certain amount of quality is lost within the Bluetooth transfer method, but the result is still very pleasing; also with the MP3 still being the king of formats for many, this is not a major concern.

The bass is very well controlled and clear with plenty of punch; the micro-velour type earpads may soak up a little of the lower sub-bass region but overall the bass impact is very impressive.

Midrange gives a wonderful sense of space and both male and female vocal are well complimented, with reverb/echo easily cutting through. There’s next to no clutter here and harmonics shine.

Treble is rolled off slightly; the Urbanite XL Wireless does not hold it back, but there are brighter-sounding headphones. As it is, there is enough treble to enhance details such as percussion, but without much chance of fatigue – it’s a good comfortable sound.

Separation and soundstage are excellent; individual instruments can be picked out with the soundstage extending beyond the physical confines of the headphones themselves.

Using the cable, maximum volume was lower although this of course depends on the maximum amplification of the smartphone being used. The Urbanite XL Wireless has an internal amp which only comes into play when used along with its wireless capability.

Isolation is fair, but you may be inadvertantly sharing your music with those nearby if listening at high volume levels.

Summary

It’s a time of year when we are all looking forward to the longer days and warmer temperatures promised by summer (at least in the northern hemisphere!) and we’re to be found making plans and dreaming about lazy days in the sunshine. Snag-free music seems like a great way to enhance that feeling of freedom and those carefree (cable-free?) moments out there. With the Urbanite XL Bluetooth being worn with it’s XL earpads, our ears might be in the dark but at the same time most enlightened!

The post Sennheiser Urbanite XL Wireless Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Looking for wireless headphones?  Our headphone experts have collected the best performing wireless headphones available and reviewed them.  Whether you are looking for headphones for watching TV, movies or gaming check out our reviews below.

Scroll down for in depth reviews of our favourite wireless headphones.

More: Visit our wireless headphones store

More: Visit our TV headphones store

Lindy WHF-45

We’re often asked for a sensibly priced pair of wireless headphones and until the Lindy WHF-45 came along we had trouble giving a satisfactory answer.  Many of the cheaper wireless headphones on the market from the big brands like Philips and Sony are cheaply made and of low quality.  The Lindy WHF-45 breaks the mould and brings high quality at an affordable price.

The headset is well made and sound quality is impressive for the price.  The audio signal can be fed into the transmitter either via 3.5mm stereo connection or by plugging to a computer USB socket (the transmitter will appear as a soundcard audio output on the computer).  Combined with a device like the FiiO D3K these headphones can be plugged into modern TVs with digital audio outputs.

Volume can be controlled from the headset, meaning you can stay in your seat.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

Better quality than many of the big name brands, the Lindy WHF-45 is a budget wireless headphone that we can highly recommend.  Perfect for watching TV without disturbing others in the room.

Sennheiser RS120-II

The Sennheiser RS120-II is high quality open back analogue wireless headphone, although it leaks very little noise into the environment. This is a great product for those watching TV in a noisy environment or who want to keep the audio level down for others.

Typical Sennheiser levels of build quality and readily available spare parts make this a headphone you can invest in for the long term.

A built-in volume control on the side of the headphones allows control anywhere in your house, while a control on the transmitter lets you fine-tune the wireless reception.

Supplied with rechargeable batteries, the RS120s innovative “easy recharge” function offers the ultimate in convenience when it comes to charging and storing your wireless headphones.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

With a range of up to 100m, through thin walls and ceilings, you can even listen whilst sitting in the garden. making the RS120 an ideal choice for all types of media and TV applications in the household.

Sennheiser RS170
Sennheiser RS180

Sennheiser RS170 closed back and Sennheiser RS180 open back headphones are Kleer Digital Wireless Systems designed for home listening. These cable-free headsets provide an audiophile quality music or home cinema experience without cluttering your living room floor. These wireless systems are comprised of a single pair of wire free headphones and a multi-purpose transmitter which also functions as an ‘easy-charge’ storage cradle.

Sennheiser’s RS170 and RS180 utilise Kleer’s uncompressed digital wireless audio transmission, the transmitters have an effective range of 80m and can serve up to four pairs of headphones. The leatherette ear pads and headband cushions provide for outstanding comfort even during long listening sessions.

The Sennheiser RS170 closed back headphone offers a weighty, full-bodied and detailed sound, sporting a couple of switchable listening modes – Dynamic Bass and Surround Sound. It will let you enjoy pure thundering bass, a virtual surround sound, or both audio treatments for your music or movies. The leatherette earpads and headband cushions provide great isolation; the circumaural design also prevents sound leakage.

Sennheiser RS180 Sennheiser’s RS180 open back headphone is comparable to some similarly priced wired headphones, making the RS 180 the choice for audiophiles seeking to cut the cord. The sound is big and spacious, fully reproducing a movie’s room filling surround effects. The RS 180 has Automatic Level Control (ALC), which maintains a consistent volume level for movies and TV shows. ALC is very useful when the quieter scenes of a movie are difficult to hear.

Both RS170 and RS180 come equipped with volume controls and include a 3.5mm-male-to-3.5mm-male analogue cable, a female-3.5mm-to-stereo-male RCA connector cable, and a 3.5mm-to-6.3mm adapter plug.

Sennheiser SET 840

When it comes to wireless headphones, one of the best solutions for those with difficulties understanding speech on TV is the Sennheiser SET 840, a headphone set that can reveal extra detail of what is said.

With selectable options to for optimised speech intelligibility the SET 840 is a headphone that makes technology work for you.

The stethoscope-style fit makes it perfect for use while watching with others; the headset can be easily removed from the ears and a volume wheel on the unit ensures full control.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

If you are finding the television needs to be turned up loud but you still cannot clearly understand the dialogue, the SET 840 will definitely help. You will more clearly hear the elements of the voice that make words distinct.

Sennheiser RS175

From Sennheiser’s latest generation of digital wireless headphones comes the RS175.  The closed back design ensures external noise from the room is kept out and also that only a little sound leaks from the headphones.

With a theoretical range of 100m (compared with just 30m from the RS165) the RS175 is practical for walking between rooms (depending on the density of wall materials) while enjoying your audio.

Sound quality is very good for a wireless headphone and will put many of the cheaper wireless offerings from Sony and Philips to shame.

Connectivity is good as the RS175 includes both analogue and digital optical input.  The digital input is particularly useful for the latest generation of TVs, which often no longer include analogue outs.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

A well thought out wireless headphone with digital signal inputs and high quality audio.

Sennheiser RS220

The RS220 is part of a big refresh of Sennheiser 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. 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. 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 even the grandest of living rooms

The Sennheiser RS220 is supplied with the wireless headphone unit, transmitter/ DAC/ charging unit, 6ft RCA cable, RCA to 3.5mm adaptor, coaxial cable, CD and physical instruction manual. The wireless range is good for wandering around the house, perfect for avoiding cabling on the living room or bedroom floor.

Sound quality is really impressive, plenty of well behaved bottom end that never becomes overbearing. From the mids up it is very clear, the EQ seems sensibly placed to work for a whole host of music and watching HD films. Very clean sound which avoids any harshness feels 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.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

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 luxurious feel.

SoundMAGIC WP10 with included USB DAC transmitter 

Audiophile quality full-size wireless headphones needn’t stay indoors; the WP10 can go wherever you wish with a pocket-sized transmitter (connected via USB to your computer), which is just as home in your hotel room as on your coffee table.

A generously padded headphone provides superb isolation and comfort while the combined transmitter and DAC can do justice to any audio, sourced either from a 3.5mm jack cable or a computer USB socket. The WP10 uses a 2.4GHz CD quality transfer standard so no detail need be lost.

Suitable for watching TV, radio listening, Youtube and a multitude of other uses, you needn’t be tethered again!

Hifiheadphones verdict:

SoundMAGIC once again offers good value with exceptional quality with this wireless model – the fun, engaging sound for which this maker is known is now literally unleashed!

Sennheiser PX210 BT

For all their diminutive size these really pack a punch! These days wirelessness and compactness needn’t mean a compromise in the sound, the PX210 BT can testify to that.

They have impactful bass with good midrange presence and sparkly highs which don’t overbear. Great for travel and staying home alike.

Can be used with the included cable should battery life need to be preserved.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

Attitudes towards the sound quality possible from wireless Bluetooth headphones have changed, thanks to models such as this. If you liked the Sennheiser HD-25 and its variations, this is the next logical step.

Jaybird Bluebuds X

The Bluebuds X is great for more active pursuits, where wires may otherwise get caught or might just be distracting.

The sound signature is warm and engaging with a slight roll-off on the treble end so that listener fatigue will not set in as you exercise, even if physical fatigue does!

Isolation can be improved still further by using TX-500 Comply tips; these feature a ‘waxguard’ to help increase protection from dirt, wax and sweat.

If you do not have this technology already built into your phone, or if you would like to use these headphones with non-bluetooth enabled devices such as your TV, the Jaybird uSport Universal Bluetooth adapter is available.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

There’s no snags when it comes to sporting these earphones; the earfin design ensures they stay in securely, allowing the wearer full concentration.

Parrot Zik wireless noise cancelling Smartphone

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

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 and 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.

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.
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 system to enable your voice to cut through surrounding noise

The post Best wireless headphones for TV, movies & sports appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

World Cup 2014 is on its way and now that FIFA have banned branded headphones, we have come up with a list of headphones to help you keep up with all of the matches. Whether you listen to the radio on the go, stream the games on your iPad or just want to watch the football at home without disturbing anyone.

Here is our pick of headphones that will help you enjoy the World Cup and sound great!

Portable Streaming

Ideal for listening on the go with portable devices. These headphones are small, lightweight, they have good isolation and will reduce the amount of sound leaking out.. You can follow the World Cup in style.

SoundMAGIC E10

Voted best in-ear for under £40 3 years running. The E10 is the go to earphone for great sound and value.

Jaybird BlueBuds X

If you like using in-ears but want something wireless these are perfect! They use Bluetooth so will be able to connect to most mobile phones and modern portable devices.

Beyerdynamic DTX501p

These are great for portable listening. Very comfortable, they fold neatly into the supplied case and they sound great too.

Sennheiser Momentum On-Ear

If you’re after a bit more luxury then the Momentum On-Ear is for you. They are the portable sized version of the popular full sized Momentum. They have a lush sound with great clarity and soundstage. They are also extremely comfortable and they look great too!

Audiofly AF78/M

The AF78 uses hybrid technology, so you get a dynamic driver (for rich bass) and a balanced armature driver (for clarity and detail). This combination gives you great punchy sound with clear detail. The M version comes with a universal in-line microphone and one button control.

Sennheiser MM450-X

To fully immerse yourself you can go for the ultimate portable headphone. The MM450-X not only sounds great, they have noise cancelling – this will help block out background noise so you can listen in peace.

Home Streaming

Full size, comfortable and easily driven. Perfect for private listening at home with any source device.

Grado SR80i

These are open backed headphones so they will leak sound, but very good sound! They are probably the best value for money headphone we do.

Sennheiser HD380

Closed back and extremely comfortable. They have a warm and open sound – great for the price.

Beyerdynamic Custom One Pro

One of the best sub £200 closed back headphones we do. Very good sound isolation and adjustable bass ports lets you customise the sound for your taste. Very comfortable and has a replaceable cable.

SoundMAGIC HP200

Another open backed headphone so sound will leak. These have a surprisingly warm sound for an open back headphone with great bass and natural detail.

Final Audio Pandora Hope IV

This closed back headphone gives you the best of both – a balanced armature driver for crisp top end detail and a dynamic driver for rich, punchy lows. Once burned in these headphones sound amazing – you’ll want to wear them all day long!

Beyerdynamic T70p

The T70p has great clarity and top end detail with tight bass and an overall neutral sound. The P version is designed for portable devices, if you use a headphone amplifier then I would recommend the T70 (non P version).

Watching TV

If you’re going to be watching the games live on TV then you will be doing some late night viewing. These headphones will be able to connect to your TV and get you fully immersed in the World Cup without disturbing anyone else in the house.

Sennheiser RS160 or Sennheiser RS170

The ultimate in TV quiet listening. Both the RS160 and RS170 are closed back and will isolate sound extremely well. The RS160 comes with a portable transmitter which can be powered by batteries whereas the RS170 has a more powerful transmitter that also acts a holder and charging station for the headphones.

The post World Cup 2014 Headphone Guide appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Most portable devices can transmit a Bluetooth signal, especially the most recent ones. Whether you use a smart phone or DAP (Digital Audio Player), Bluetooth will allow you listen to your music and answer calls wirelessly. Thanks to this technology you won’t be sacrificing audio quality for convenience, being a digital signal you will get an extremely clear connection and with the standard of Bluetooth headphones out there (especially those that are apt-X compatible) the result can be as good as wired headphones. Here are my picks for the best Bluetooth wireless headphones available in our store.

Sennheiser MM550-X

Sennheisers flagship Bluetooth headphone does it all, they are full size so they are very comfortable and they isolate sound very well, they have built in active noise cancelling, they have a microphone so you can answer your calls – and they do all of this wirelessly! The sound is as you’d expect from a Sennheiser headphone – warm and smooth with great detail and an overall enjoyable sound. They also have apt-X compatibility so the audio quality will be even clearer when paired with an apt-X compatible device.

Denon AH-NCW500

These headphones are Denons answer to the high end Bluetooth headphone. They have noise cancelling, device controls on the ear cups, apt-X compatibility and they are very comfortable. They are perfect for travelling as they are smaller than a your average full size headphone and they can fold flat, this works very well with the carry case supplied. The Denon sound has great bass and sparkly highs with a smooth midrange – Very fun to listen to.

Parrot Zik

For those of you who like your gadgets, the Parrot Zik is the ultimate Bluetooth headphone. As well as having noise cancelling and a very refined sound, they can control your device with the use of their touch sensitive ear cups. The headphones are also sensitive to movement and when you remove them from your head the music will pause automatically! They also come with a free smartphone application suite – here you can adjust the EQ, check battery life and make the most of their Concert Hall Effects. FUN FUN FUN!

Sennheiser MM450-X

This is the on-ear alternative to the MM550-X mentioned above. They have the same features but in a smaller and more portable design.

Sennheiser PX210 BT

The PX210 BT is perfect for those of you that don’t need noise cancelling or apt-X, but still want a great sounding Bluetooth headphone. They are great value for money as you still get the typical Sennheiser sound without all of the extra features.

Jaybird Freedom

In-ear headphones are becoming more and more popular, so it makes sense to have an in-ear Bluetooth headphone. Jay Bird have done this very well with a great sounding earphone that has a fairly balanced yet warm sound. They are also very comfortable and come with a number of different ear tips. Another great feature is that they are very secure in the ear, so they are popular amongst the more active user too.

Volume DH-B38

Volume have come up with an extremely versatile portable headphone that is not only wireless, but has a built in microphone so you can also take calls. These headphones will connect to your device using the built in Bluetooth technology and hey presto! You have a great sounding wireless headphone that can control your smart device, take calls and is very comfortable… All for under £60!

The post Best Bluetooth Headphones – Staff Picks appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Cabling is a reliable, efficient and inexpensive way to get audio from one place to another. Since we live in an age of wireless technology many people would like to break free from electronic chains as they go about their daily business. Our best wireless portable headphones selection provides plenty of options to choose from, let’s have a look at five of the best wireless sets for commuting, travelling and general use.

Sennheiser MM550-X TRAVEL Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones

This is the Sennheiser portable that does it all and at £300 most people would be expecting that. 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 the unit is small sized, easily transportable. The right earcup is laden with controls, not surprising given the list of available functionality – 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. Extremely flexible headphones with 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 into a portable carry case.

Denon’s AH-NCW500 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

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. Much smaller than a full size set of cans, you shouldn’t feel self conscious as the aesthetics are more gentlemans club than superstar DJ. The design’s control wheel also allows you to effortlessly control Apple iPhone, iPad or other Bluetooth devices. The AH-NCW500 has advanced noise cancellation circuitry via Bluetooth 3.0 wireless or a wired connection, actively eliminating unwanted ambient noise, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your music, wherever you travel. They are available in silver and black and come with a hard-shell carry case with a soft fabric finish. Since the headphones themselves do fold flat, the case remains reasonably thin.

Parrot Zik Wireless Active Noise Cancelling Smartphone Headset

Beautifully designed and filled with technology, with plenty of opportunity to adjust the sound to taste. The Parrot Zik, designed by Philippe Starck, is a wireless headphone with gesture control, noise canceling technology and their very own app. Designed to be a gadget fan’s dream audio accessory, they have a host of featuresincluding a sensor that pauses the music when you take them off. 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. With your Parrot Zik headphones you get a Micro USB cable and a Protective pouch. 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.

SoundMAGIC WP10 Digital Wireless Headphone with DAC

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 are a large selection of supplied accessories including a mains charger, the tiny 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 all this in the excellent rigid carry case also included. This 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 RCA for home Hifi connection. Should you run out of battery power while out and about it is possible to use the included cable to carry on listening. The headphone itself has the same incredibly comfortable pads as the excellent 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.

Volume DH-B38 Bluetooth Headphones

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. A small yet comfortable on-ear, lightweight and durable. The big surprise is that they sound great with impressive stereo imaging for an on-ear. This high-spec, low price philosophy underpins the Volume collection of Bluetooth headphones with mic and on board controls. 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. Features include a high quality omni-directional mic, Class 1 Bluetooth – giving up to 100m range and the ability to fold flat for storage. 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. A typically warm feel, punchy smile curve EQ with much more detail than you would expect. The bass will handle everything from chart pop to huge electro bass lines, Classical and Acoustic don’t sound bad either as there is some sparkle here too. The sound is fun and involving but not too aggressive for everyday use or long journeys.

The post Best Wireless Portable Headphones – Top 5 – Buying Guides appeared first on HiFiheadphones.