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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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 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!
In an industry where any extra functionality usually translates into extra sales, it is hardly surprising that headphone manufacturers are falling over themselves to give the customers as many buttoms and as much control as possible when it comes to skipping tracks, altering volume and answering calls. Of course, while this is fine when your handset is specifically listed as being compatible with the headset, there’s a lot of handsets out there now and a lot of headphones with some indeterminate functionality, but what works with what?
To get some kind of idea, we need to look closely at the connections and wiring, also the standards under which these wiring decisions have been made.
CTIA
The oldest standard belongs to the then-called ‘Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association’, now called ‘CTIA – The Wireless Association’. This organisation represents both service providers and manufacturers, providing a framework for discussion regarding standard ways of designing parts and services which makes everybody’s lives easier. Apple uses this standard, for instance.
OMTP
Another standard exists, called OMTP (Open Mobile Terminal Platform). It has been around only since 2004, and was set up by mobile operators to attempt standardisation between handset manufacturers. Sony and Nokia are members, but it looks as if this standard is quietly being dropped.
The difference between these standards lies in the way the individual contacts in the socket and plug are wired to the phone. Both standards include the tip and first ring dealing with ‘L’ and ‘R’ respectively. This way, a normal stereo 3.5mm plug will work in the same socket, whether it be CTIA or OMTP. The difference is in the ‘Mic’ and ‘Ground’ contacts. These are reversed between the two standards and explains the seemingly random functionality between headsets and headphones with mic/controls.
Phones on OMTP include
old Nokia
old Samsung
old Sony Ericsson (’10 & ’11 Xperias)
Phones on CTIA include
Apple
HTC
latest Nokia
latest Samsung
latest Sony (2012 on)
most Android phones
To further muddy the compatibility waters, Apple has built a different way of signalling (sending instructions to the phone) into their remotes and phones.
Where the more universal remotes use differing voltages depending on the button pressed, Apple’s incorporate a ‘dual mode modulator’ which results in a complex ‘chirp’ being sent to the phone. For instance a ‘power on signal’ (where the phone shakes hands with the remote) has the remote sending back a chirp consisting of two bursts of ultrasonic frequency, one immediately following the other. A couple of hundredths of a second at 280kHz, and maybe a few more at 244kHz.
The use of these ‘encoded’ signal can prevent the Apple remote’s functions from working with other manufacturer’s handsets, although from experience it looks as if some makers are widening the goalposts so the remote may have some functionality. My Huawei Ascend P1 LTE will answer a call using an Apple remote, but nothing else will work for example.
Stay tuned, as over the coming weeks we will be collating information as to which remote headphones work with which handsets, and what functionality there is.
The HiFiHeadphones team is pleased to announce the new Closed Back Foldable On-Ear Headband Headphone from Audio Technica, the ATH-ES700 is now available to be purchased on our website.
Audio-Technica introduces a new and improved portable headphone into the EAR SUIT series, the ATH-ES700. The 700’s have an improved midrange and bass with a clear and sharp sound reproduction.
In addition, the ATH-ES700 has beautiful high quality mirror finish housing, and helps deliver a sound reproduction in the high frequencies unique to stainless steel. The headband is cushioned with light-weight material to further enhance comfort and a swivel hinge for storage. The newly designed 42mm drivers deliver powerful bass and detail in a compact size
We strive to be the very best place to buy headphones – we love testing headphones ,including the superb Sennheiser Momentum Headphones ,we love reviewing headphones and sharing our thoughts through our headphone top 10s, blog articles, staff picks or know-hows. In order to be even more useful for our ever-growing community, we have decided to start making video reviews!
Our first review features Sennheiser’s brilliant portable set, the Momentum. Without further ado, enjoy the video!
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!
Verdict – Good for pop, great with hip hop and dance music.
Pro’s – Big contemporary warm sound from these lightweight but sturdy on ear headphones. Perfect for commuting or travelling.
Cons – On ear headphones just do not work for some ears – they can become painful after long periods but there is an obvious advantage to this smaller style over full size headphones. Not for most Classical music fans unless you like more bass than average.
In-Depth Review
Introduction – Audio Technica was established in 1962, Audio-Technica is a worldwide group devoted to the design, manufacture, marketing and distribution of problem-solving audio equipment. They started out making phonograph cartridges and now create microphones, mixers and electronic products for home and professional use. Winner of numerous industry awards, Audio-Technica manufactures quality products that are used in professional and personal audio around the world.
Description -The ATH-ES55 is available in White and Black and has a closed back design, therefore cutting out external noises which may distract from your listening. Although they have impressive sound isolation this has the effect of reducing the sound stage and stereo image width and gives a slightly warm tone with an elevated bottom end.
Included peripherals – Both White and Black versions come with a carry pouch to help with transporting them.
Application – The ES55 are excellent everyday use headphones. Sturdy with decent sized pads, very comfy for an on ear, these would make sense for commuting, listening whilst working or as headphones for someone who does not like in ear headphones but wants to keep their portable audio small and light.
Describe the sound – Contemporary feel, warm as with most closed backs, they are relaxed but feel detailed and exciting too, the overall sound is slightly laid back but not dull. Nice and easy to power from an iPod/MP3 player or Laptop so no volume problems.
Verdict – The iGrado is one of the best sounding headphone it is possible to buy for around £50. They are a simple solution to the need for a sports headphone for road running or cycling when you need to be aware of your surroundings.
Pro’s – For the price, the sound quality is just stunning.
Cons – Neck band headphones are not everyone’s cup of tea. Although the open back is great for cyclists or exercise in a busy public place, they are not really suitable for the gym or quiet public environments.
In-Depth Review
Introduction – Family owned Grado have been manufacturing beautiful headphones for over 50 years in their Brooklyn USA factory. Grado is famous for their remarkable headphone and phono cartridge designs and hold over 48 patents. Company founder, Joseph Grado is credited as the inventor of the stereo moving coil phono cartridge. Joseph Grado has passed on the mantle of President to his nephew John Grado. John has risen from sweeping the floors of the factory as a twelve year old, to President and Owner of Grado Laboratories.
Description – The iGrado is actually the only Grado made outside the US factory, this was decided so there was a Grado affordable for any budget. The iGrado actually shares the same driver design as the highly acclaimed SR60i which is twice the price!
Included peripherals – Inside the box you will find a Grado iGrado and not a lot else.
Application – Grado iGrado is a lightweight neckband model that will stay still during the hardest workout. The open back allows joggers or cyclists to be aware of their environment whilst exercising and listening to music. They work fantastically well for Classical, Folk and Acoustic music but do a great job with contemporary Rock and Pop and classics from the 60’s to the present day. They work with Hip Hop but having a flat controlled bottom end response, bass fanatic Dance fans should look for a bass dominant headphone instead.
Describe the sound – The Grado sound is detailed, brash and very sweet with a natural feel, basically really exciting. Bass is strong but tightly controlled and never overbearing. The upper mids and the highs really do send the soul soaring, vocals are believable and even difficult strings and brass have a texture which feels right. By venting the drivers a natural ease is gained, getting a closer listening experience to speakers.
Comparisons – The alternatives to this impressive Audiophile workout or even dog walk friendly Headphone are the Sennheiser PX100-II, for a balanced but musical approach a Sennheiser MOMENTUM would work really well if your budget will allow but is closed back. You could also check out the the full sized Grado models such as the SR60i and SR80i.
Verdict – Based on the ever so popular DJ headphones, the HD 25-1, the Sennheiser Amperior provide a consumer oriented alternative with their balanced audio reproduction, warm mids, deep powerful bass and smartphone features.
Pro’s – Impressive bass and excellent portable size.
Con’s – On-Ear headphones always become a bit uncomfortable during long listening sessions.
In-Depth Review
Introduction – The Amperior are essentially an update on the legendary HD25 DJ and soundman headphone of choice. Almost ubiquitous in some industries due to it’s superb design, diminutive size (considering the sound quality) and freely available spare parts. We live in a world filled with reboots and sequels so what have Sennheiser done to justify this cover version of a classic?
Description – Aside from a looks makeover, which is actually more than skin deep, there is real attention to the voicing of the Amperior – underneath the classy new paint colours are aluminium cups, making this headphone tougher and aiding with the improved sounds available. The earpads are velour, rather than pleather, giving extra comfort, the headband is nearly identical to the original HD25 split band but also has velour padding. Build quality is at least as good, if not better due to the new metal cups.
Included peripherals – The Sennheiser Amperior come with two sets of cables. The detachable bottom section comes in plain and iDevice compatible version.
Application – As previously mentioned, the size and shape of the Amperiors makes them a practical everyday set of cans. Comfort levels are pretty good although On-Ear headphones are never as comfy as their circumaural counterparts. The ability to swivel and the give in the connection of the cups to the headband means they are very adjustable. The closed-back design gives decent isolation making the Amperior a good choice for the commuter.
Describe the sound – The Amperior comes with a copper cable, part of the reason sound is bigger, warmer and less scratchy at the top end when compared to the steel cabled HD25. The EQ is less flat than the monitoring ready HD25 and has more character, really decent instrument separation and stereo imaging. The Amperior is a great headphone for the contemporary music lover on the move. Practical with smart but not over-designed looks are complimented with refined but current sound – should be considered by any regular traveler.
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.
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
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!
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.
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.
Beyerdynamic are just about to launched the T50p in the UK – a new portable headphone that is set to compete head to head with the B&W P5. Matt from Polar Audio (Beyerdynamic’s UK distributor) visited HiFi Headphones HQ today to give us a first listen.
It appears that the high end portable headphone market has recently become the target for the established serious audio brands, with the B&W P5 gaining some very positive reviews and plenty of high profile press. Beyerdynamic have obviously done their homework and with the launch of the T50p they look set to make their mark with a stylish design and high end audio performance.
Below are some initial impressions of the T50p. We’ve also included comparisons with the B&W P5 that we recently had on loan for evaluation.
Sound
Well balanced with plenty of accuracy, the T50p will appeal to those who love to hear all the detail in their music. The clarity is really very impressive, with excellent instrument separation and wide soundstage for a closed back portable headphone. Bass response is well defined and punchy – much less warm and fuzzy than the B&W P5.
The T50p’s sound signature is no surprise when compared with the rest of the Beyerdynamic line up. We are big fans of the Beyer sound.
Comfort
The headphones themselves weigh very little and the headband has a soft leather pad that runs over the top of the head to keep the headphones comfortably in place. The T50p is an on-ear design, but pressure is actually quite light and the pads are soft. Not as comfortable as a fully over ear (circumaural) headphones, but a lot more practical for using out and about.
Compared with the B&W P5 the Beyer T50p is a little less soft on the ears (the P5 has large, flat, ultra soft ear pads), but we don’t see comfort being a major issue with the T50p.
Noise Isolation
Listening to the T50p in a noisy office with people chattering nearby the sound isolation is good. The ear pads are sufficiently thick and soft to ensure a good seal on the ears. The T50p would be fine to use as a travel headphone because the closed back design prevents sound leakage in and out of the ear cups.
Design
We love the industrial design of the T50p and prefer it over the more reserved design of the B&W P5. The T50p is designed and built by hand in Germany, with the quality of workmanship being very evident when you hold the headphones in your hands.
