Tag Archives: smartphone headphones

SoundMAGIC Vento P55 Closed Back Headphones – Review

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SoundMAGIC Vento P55 On Ear Headphones – Review

SoundMAGIC Vento P55

 

Intro:

SoundMAGIC has been on the scene for 10 years now, and it’s remarkable how much the headphones market has changed in that time; possibly pushed along by SoundMAGIC’s esteemed offerings. The way that headphones are used (and their popularity) has really come on, and they are often seen in pretty much everywhere now, when both indoors and out.

SoundMAGIC’s new Vento P55 is designed to address the need for a good looking, versatile and sturdy on-ear model for any scenario, so how does it measure up?

Design and appearance:

At first glances, the Vento P55 has a certain prosaic chic about it; attention is not demanded and so the wearer may not feel as self-conscious as with other, more showy models. The Vento P55 is a nice functional piece of design and has a well-heeled and restrained look about it. There are two 1.2m cables; these are removable and the socket of the Vento P55 will accept any 3.5mm jack – there is no special recessed socket which requires a specific cable replacement.

 

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

The Vento P55 headphones are certainly sturdy, with a stainless steel headband and aluminium earcups which lend an air of something military grade, but without the weight! Cables are what might be expected for a portable design; thick enough to bear the stresses and strains of an itinerant life on the road but thin and supple enough to not get cumbersome. SoundMAGIC’s new angled jack design (which its recent earphones have adopted) has been included, to reduce any stress on the jack when players or phones are placed in pockets when users are on the move.

Comfort:

Despite being an on-ear portable, the gentle grip of the Vento P55 puts them on the right side of tight, but they have a firm hold and they are quite comfortable during longer periods of use. The earpads are soft and yielding and offer no problems, even when worn over glasses.

Suitability for intended application:

As alluded to above, the demure and reserved character of the Vento P55’s design allows it to fit in anywhere without drawing any undue attention. Along with the comfortable fit, the Vento P55 is a perfect tool for commuting or casual use when out and about.

Sound isolation (if applicable):

Isolation is fair but the wearer is not rendered incommunicado; it is still possible to aware of your surroundings which may be no bad thing if the Vento P55 is put to more portable uses. Of course, with music playing the effect of isolation is more marked.

Portability:

Included is a light but rigid carry case which will protect the Vento well if taken with you unused, and the headphones can be worn around the neck without restricting movement too much.

 

Sound characteristics:

Overall the Vento P55 has a detailed yet warm sound, with plenty of room between bass and treble for harmonics and vocal performances to make a good impression. These headphones were tested with a Fiio X3 using a Chord Hugo as DAC/amp.

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

Bass is reserved and restrained in contrast to many similar models on the market. The Vento P55 is not bass light however; it starts low and provides authority to a track without taking over, allowing the midrange to make its mark.

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

Midrange is very present for a non-neutral headphone; it makes a sense of space more pronounced, and harmonics stand out. This has a good effect on imaging and the attention is easily grabbed by certain instruments.

Treble (e.g. high hats):

Treble is rolled off slightly but still stands up to be counted; it’s there just enough to give details and add definition but backs off well before there’s any danger of sibilance.

Soundstage & Separation:

Soundstage is fair for a closed-back portable; the head is well enveloped within the sound. Separation is helped along by the clear and distinct midrange, and is very good. Again, the midrange helps this along and brings out most instruments and voices in clear relief.

Music genres good for and why:

The SoundMAGIC Vento P55 excels at dance music, funk and Hip Hop, while its strong midrange suits genres such as classical and jazz particularly well.

Pros:

Strong, light metal construction
Removable cables, one with mic/controls
Sturdy carry case
Adaptor for greater compaitiblity with handsets
Adaptor for use with computers

Cons:

Some may prefer more recessed midrange

Summary:

The SoundMAGIC Vento P55 is a good strong design for taking out and about, with decent isolation once music is playing. The removable stereo cable can be swapped for a control/microphone cable for skipping tracks and taking calls on the go. Its steely good looks will not draw attention from anyone but the user, who will be treated to some great comfort and engaging sounds.

Sennheiser Amperior Headphones – Review

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Summary

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.

Comparisons – Also see Sennheiser HD25-SP, AiAiAi TMA-1, GermanMAESTRO JFB 8.35d, Beyer DT1350.

Product Information

Product –  Sennheiser Amperior

Product Type – On-Ear Stereo Portable Headphone

Price – £259.95

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

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Summary

Verdict

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

In-Depth Review

Introduction

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

Description

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

Included peripherals

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

Application

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

Describe the sound

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

Comparisons

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

Product Information

Product type – In-Ear Isolating Headphones w/Mic

Price at the time of review – £39.95

Product Link – Buy Audiofly AF33M

Sennheiser Momentum Headphones

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Summary

Verdict

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

Pro’s

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

Con’s

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

In-Depth Review

Introduction

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

Description

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

Included peripherals

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

Application

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

Describe the sound

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

Comparisons

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

Product Information

Product Type – Closed Back Portable Audiophile Headphones

Price at the time of review – £259.99

Product Link – Buy Sennheiser Momentum

Parrot Zik Wireless Active Noise Cancelling Smartphone Headset – Product Review

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Product Type – Circumaural, wireless headphones with smartphone features

Price at the time of review – £349.99

Product Link – Buy Parrot Zik

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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