A perfect and low cost introduction to the world of wireless audio; now there’s no need to miss any of your favourite show’s dialogue if the cat needs to be put out, or if you need that cup of tea. For the asking price, the Lindy WHF-45 is second to none.
Intro
Wireless headphones have been around for a while, but are often to be found at the £100 mark or higher. Step forward Lindy, who have introduced some amazing specimens for almost half that – £54.98! Older transmission methods such as Radio Frequency/FM (used by the Sennheiser RS120-II for instance) have been around for some years and are still popular, but the 2.4GHz digital transmission method employed by the Lindy WHF-45 is less susceptible to interference, even when used near Wi-Fi routers and other similar devices.
Key Features
Features are basic with a volume control and ‘connect’ button on the headphones, for helping with connection to the transmitter. The transmitter itself outdoes many higher-priced equivalents in that it doubles as a DAC (digital to analogue converter) for direct connection to a computer for online TV services, or for music. It can also be powered via the same USB connection, or with the supplied mains adapter if an analogue signal is fed into it via the 3.5mm socket.
First Impressions
The headphones are very light; they’re obviously designed with comfort in mind, for relaxing in front of a favourite TV show for instance. Pairing is a doddle, transmitter and headphones were able to spot each other straight away when switched on, and music began to play with very little work.
Sound Quality
The headphones perform far above expectations, given the asking price. These are being tested with high quality and well produced music such as Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ and with thrilling results! Soundstage is very wide and immersive, bass is deep. Mid-range and treble are also very good for any headphone at this price, never mind a wireless model.
Some people may be aware that digital wireless headphones can introduce a slight delay while the sound is converted to wireless and back again; with the Lindy WHF-45 this is minimal; certainly when watching somebody speaking, there is no noticeable delay between the video and audio from the headphones.
Summary
It’s great to see digital wireless headphones at this price; and especially with this audio quality. Now there can be no excuse for noisy night time excursions to Hollywood and beyond – for under £60 any long-suffering hubby or housemate can be guaranteed a good night’s sleep with the Lindy WHF-45! Score 8.5/10
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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
In my last article I wrote about the different ways you can set up wireless headphones with a TV. This time I will talk about the different types of headphones available and how to choose the correct one for you.
So you’ve determined which outputs your TV has and now it’s time to pick your headphone – here is a list of the best wireless TV headphones for each connection type.
This is our most popular wireless TV headphone. Amazing value for money – packaged with a charging dock as well as offering clarity and comfort. the Thomson WHP3311 is the best TV headphone we’ve come across for under £50.
The SET 840 TV is the ultimate assistive listening wireless headphone. Great sound quality and three selectable hearing settings on transmitter for optimised speech intelligibility. The volume control has left and right balance settings as well as tone control.
Sennheiser RS120-II (DISCONTINUED)
If you’re looking for a sub £100 wireless headphone then you can’t go wrong with the RS120-II. The transmitter can charge the headphones and uses RF (radio frequency) to transmit audio – this gives you a very long range but can be susceptible to interference. The headphones are open back so they will leak sound – but will provide a natural sound with good width.
TV Ears 2.3 (DISCONTINUED)
For the hard of hearing, the TV Ears 2.3 is very hard to fault at the very low price of £59.95. They use infra red to transmit audio so you get a clear sound, they are susceptible to interference though. The sound quality is what you’d expect for the price but as they are designed for the hard of hearing their main focus is on the upper frequencies – so for this purpose they work very well.
The RS175 transmits digitally using Sennheiser’s advanced technology, this provides a much clearer sound with no interference. The headphones are extremely comfortable and they are closed back so they isolate sound very well. The transmitter acts as a charging station for the headphones and also provides Dynamic Bass and Surround Sound listening modes and the built in DAC allows a digital connection via Optical cable.
The RS185 is almost identical to the RS175 except the headphones are open backed. This means that the headphones will leak sound, but you will get a wider and more natural sound from them. You can also adjust the balance for left and right channels separately.
If your TV only has digital outputs and you don’t want to go for the Sennheiser RS220, the FiiO D03K can solve your problem. Adding this to the chain between the TV (coaxial or optical output) and wireless headphone means that you can use any of the headphones I have mentioned in this article. A very handy piece of kit!
Sennheiser RS220 (DISCONTINUED)
The Swiss army knife of wireless headphones – The RS220 can connect itself to analogue (RCA) and digital (coaxial and optical) sources. The headphones themselves are open backed and provide an audiophile experience. The transmitter has a built in DAC (digital to analogue converter) so when used with a digital source, the sound is superb! The headphones feature balance control for left and right channels, a charging docking station and Sennheiser offer an extended 5 year warranty.
A great application for wireless headphones is using them for watching TV. Whether it’s a matter of not bothering anyone around you or helping someone who has hearing problems, they can be incredibly useful. Our wireless headphones selection provides plenty of options to choose from, let’s have a look at five of the best for watching the telly.
The RS120-II is a supra-aural wireless headphone system that uses FM (frequency modulation) to transmit the audio signal. The unit consists of a FM-transmitter and a receiver – the transmitter also acts as a charger for the headset, which uses two rechargeable NiMH AAA batteries included in the box. This set connects to devices through Analogue inputs, which can either be a headphone socket, SCART or phono RCA – thankfully, these connections can be found on most TV’s apart from the most recent.
The RS120-II provides great value for money as the sound quality is surprisingly good for an FM set, spacious and smooth with plenty of bass power. Due to the use of FM, the range is up to 100 metres and the signal can even go through walls. The volume level and other control elements are conveniently located on the side of the headset for easy use. As a plus, the transmitter is also wall-mountable.
The TV Ears 2.3 wireless set uses infrared technology to transmit the signal to the receiver, which in this case is a stethoscope-like headset. The receiver goes into the ear providing the user with good isolation and despite the relatively deep insertion, it is surprisingly comfortable thanks to foam ear tips. Due to the infrared transmission, the sound is clean with no background humming. As with all infrared units, the transmitter and the receiver do have to be in line of sight otherwise the signal can cut out.
As with the Sennheiser RS120, the transmitter also acts a charger for the headsets but in this case it can charge up to two at the same time. The set is highly recommended for the hearing impaired because of built-in “Voice Clarifying Circuitry” that elevates speech above background noise. The TV Ears 2.3 connects to Analogue audio outputs, in case you would like to have the TV speakers turned up whilst using the headset, make sure either the TV SCART or RCA/phono outputs are used. This will allow you to set the volume of the speakers separately from the headset.
The Sennheiser RS170 is a Kleer Digital Wireless System designed for home listening. This closed back headset provides an audiophile quality music or home cinema experience with the added benefit of not having cabling in the way. As with most Sennheiser wireless systems, the multi-purpose transmitter also functions as an ‘easy-charge’ storage cradle and can transmit a signal to up to four headsets. The base unit also has an effective range of 80 metres.
The sound is smooth, well-rounded and detailed. Thanks to the switchable listening modes – Dynamic Bass and Surround Sound – it can be fine tuned for the intended purpose, be it music or TV listening. The leatherette ear pads do a fine job in providing a comfortable fit and due to the circumaural design nobody will be bothered by sound leakage. If you are not concerned about the leakage and would prefer a more airy and open sound have a look at the RS180 as this headset has open back construction.
The SoundMAGIC WP10 is a full size digital wireless headphone, supplied with a very small transmitter for use on the move or to transport the unit easily. There is a large selection of accessories including a mains charger, the transmitter unit, a USB cable, a mini jack 3.5mm to RCA cable, a short 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable and a long 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable. You can keep these accesories in the excellent rigid carry case, also included. The WP10 is a very clever set of headphones, the transmitter also contains a USB DAC for superior sound from your PC or Mac, connection cables for pocket sized media players and an RCA lead for home Hifi connection. Should you run out of battery power while out and about it is possible to use the included cable to keep on listening! SoundMAGIC have really tried to cover every eventuality
The headphone itself has the same incredibly comfortable pads as the SoundMAGIC HP100 and HP200 wired Full size headphones, is reasonably lightweight and has a well thought out set of controls on the left ear cup. Sound quality is well above any RF headphone and superior to that of Bluetooth headphones as the WP10 uses a 2.4G 16 bit CD quality connection. The sound signature is generally bright and clean with deep but restrained bottom end.
Sennheiser RS220 is the wireless headphone we have all been waiting for. Ever since their appearance on the audio market there have always been complaints from audio enthusiasts as the sound of wireless headphones has never compared favourably to their cabled counterparts. The Rolls-Royce of the wireless scene is set to change this perception as it delivers sound performance that matches some of the better wired models. Be it digital (optical or coaxial) or analogue, the RS220 has been designed to merge with any audio setup.
The set uses what Sennheiser call Direct Sequenced Spread Spectrum (DSSS) technology to provide the user with uncompressed, CD quality sound. The open back design enables the set to deliver an airy and transparent presentation. The entire system has been crafted using premium quality materials; the luxurious velour earpads deserve a special mention as they provide exceptional wearing comfort for longer listening sessions. Would you like audiophile sound with the benefit of cable free usage? Look no further, the RS220 will satisfy all your listening needs.
