Why Headphones Could Be More Risky Than You Thought
Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones completely encapsulate your ears and allow you to fully immerse in the sound. They are typically designed for audiophiles and include features such as active noise cancellation and control apps.
The Focal Bathys is a wireless speaker that comes with ANC and [Redirect-Java] a mobile application to alter the EQ and presets. They also support high-res audio via USB-C for wired listening.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The WH1000XM5 earphones from Sony are the latest upgrade in their noise cancellation line-up. They feature a new design, upgraded ANC, and many of the same features that their predecessors had but with better materials and slightly higher quality sound.
With only 250g, they're a light weight for over-ear ANC headsets. This makes them extremely comfortable to wear for long periods of time, even when you're listening to a podcast or a book. The headband is soft, and it features the same design of a friction rod as the Grado Labs SR60x that prevents your ears from getting too cold.
With an audio quality that is able to please those who enjoy music casually and audiophiles, the WH-1000XM5's sonic signature is tuned to put a little emphasis on bass, but not overpowering or harsh. They have a large and open soundstage with good instrument separation that allows you to hear the details in your music. The earcups are also equipped with control buttons that are easy to use. Swipe forward to play the next track, reverse to listen to the previous one as well as up and down to adjust the volume. The headphones are capable of connecting to two devices simultaneously and, thanks to a built-in sensor, they automatically pause the playback when removed from your head. You can enable the ambient mode by placing your hand on the right-ear cup. This lets you hear the sounds around you without having to take off the headphones.
They can also be connected with your voice assistant. Bluetooth low-energy is also supported, as well as high-resolution audio (via LDAC). They come with a durable carrying case made of high-end fabric as well as a USB-C cable for charging. The headphones are compatible with most Android and iOS smartphones, as well as with computers operating Windows and macOS. The battery longevity of the WH-1000XM5 is impressive. In our test of the standard battery, we got 31 hours and 53 minutes with the ANC on which was higher than Sony's advertised 30-hour battery life.
The WH1000XM5 has a great microphone for making calls. There's no muffled or static audio in the background. Noise cancelling is also excellent and these headphones are ideal for public transportation or the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a major upgrade from its predecessor, delivering premium performance and features. It includes wireless streaming at 24 bits and optimized active noise cancellation, and clear voice quality on any compatible tablet or mobile phone. The custom-designed 40mm drivers are carefully angled inside each earcup to provide a more focused, deep listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones provide exceptional call clarity, even in noisy environments. A remote inline and microphone lets you control your music and calls on any device compatible with it.
As with the PX7's original design, these headphones are elegant and refined, with accent rings around each earcup, and a silver sheen on the headband. The earcups are cushioned with memory foam and fit snugly on the cranium, but never feel tight. The redesigned shape and form took many months to perfect, delivering an easy clamping force that doesn't push too hard, even on my own rotund cranium.
At 10.8 pounds (or 307g) They're 2 ounces lighter than the Sony WH-1000XM5, as well as a touch smaller. They're light enough to fit in your backpack or bag without much discomfort, and will remain comfortably in place for long listening sessions. A sturdy hinge on the back of the headband lets you to fold them for easy transport in a protective case.
The headphones are powered by Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive. This is great for high-resolution audio aswell for a tight video sync. The 3.5mm cord connects to the USB-C port on the right earcup. The headphone's status indicator is a useful touch that flashes green to indicate rapid charge and solid blue when Bluetooth pairing is in progress.
The B&W app provides similar controls to the hardware onboard buttons - bass and treble adjustment and assigning action buttons wear detection, the ability to cycle through ANC modes and much more. The app also displays an album cover and track's name when you play music using your iPhone. However, some popular features such as music presets or soundscapes feature aren't available.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is the successor of the iconic headphones made by Sennheiser, and it is designed to meet the highest demands. Its technical construction has been optimized to achieve the highest resolution in detail that covers all of the frequency spectrum as well as dynamic range and stereo panorama. It provides the most realistic sound you'll experience on open-back headphones.
The headphone is 300 ohms in impedance, which means a quality headphone amplifier will be needed to drive it at desired levels without distortion. A balanced connection is recommended as this will double the output power and improve the overall sound quality.
These headphones are designed for professional use and have a sturdy steel frame with a mix of plastics and leather padding. The design is simple and doesn't appear like a fancy pair of headphones, but they feel luxurious in the hand and are well-built. They come with a carrying pouch and an extra audio cable and a 1/4" to 1/8" adapter.
The HD 800 S has a neutral sound that reproduces instruments and vocals with naturality, however they are less bass-y. The open-back design creates a spacious, out-of-head soundstage. The treble is very good, with minor drops and peaks. The treble area is extremely smooth, meaning you won't have issues with hitting sibilants or the upper sound of the snare drum.
Despite the lack of a booming bass, they can still provide dynamism and impact when needed. These headphones are still great for those who like rock music that has punchy bass however they might not be as impressive as some of the other models on this list.
These Sennheiser Headphones Bluetooth have a fantastic midrange. They are very linear and have a slight slop in the upper mids which should not be noticeable to the majority of listeners. They can also reproduce precise time gradations, which is a benefit.
The HD 800 S are a pair of exceptional headphones, ideal for audiophiles and professionals. Their exceptional sound quality and comfortable fit make them a top choice. The headphones are expensive but they will last you for many years and perform in any environment.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20
The Anker Soundcore Q20 is a good pair of headphones for those looking to kill time or simply want a pair of affordable noise cancelling headphones. The headphones come with a basic bag that protects them when you throw them into bags. Their battery can last for a long time on long-haul flights. The ANC works well to block out loud passengers and engine rumbles, but their audio profile is a little warmer and bass-heavy.
The Life Q20's controls are easy to use and are well-marked. On the left earcup you'll find buttons for powering up and pairing the headphones bose and for turning off or on active noise cancellation. On the right earcup, you'll find controls for playback of media. This includes a multi-function control that activates the phone's voice assistant and switches on Anker BassUp (more about it later). The built-in microphone can be used to make calls using hands-free technology.
Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphone offers a deep and immersive listening experience due to its custom 40 mm dynamic driver that provides certified Hi-Res audio. The headphones skullcandy feature the treble range to go up to 40 kHz. Their active noise cancelling technology is designed to block out a wide range of mid- and low-frequency sound.
Anker Soundcore Q20 does not support aptX. This is disappointing. This means you won't be able to take advantage of the superior codec's lower latency while playing on your computer.
The Life Q20's headband and memory foam earcups are soft enough to wear for long periods of time without discomfort. The ear cups are also capable of turning, allowing them to adapt to the specific shape of your head, so you can have a comfortable fit. The included 3.5mm audio cable lets you to listen to music while charging the battery.
