Why Headphones Is Relevant 2023
Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones completely encapsulate your ears and allow you to fully immerse in the sound. They are typically made for audiophiles, and come with features like active noise cancellation and control apps.
The Focal Bathys is a wireless speaker that includes ANC and a mobile application to adjust the EQ and presets. They also support high-res audio through USB-C for wired listening.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The WH1000XM5 earphones from Sony are the most recent upgrade in their noise cancellation line-up. They feature a new design, enhanced ANC and a host of the same features as their predecessors but with better materials and slightly more premium sound quality.
At just 250g, they're light for over-ear ANC headsets. They're extremely comfortable to wear, even when you're reading or listening to the audiobook. The headband is a friction-rod design, similar to the Grado Labs SR60x, which keeps your ears from getting too cold.
With an audio quality that is able to please people who listen to music for no reason and serious audiophiles, the WH1000XM5's sound signature is tuned to have a slight emphasis on bass but is not too loud or harsh. They have a large and spacious soundstage that has excellent instrument separation that lets you hear details in your music. The earcups also have control buttons that are responsive and intuitive to use. Swipe forward to play the next track, back to hear the previous one as well as up and down to regulate the volume. The headphones are capable of connecting to two devices simultaneously and thanks to a built-in sensor, they will automatically pause the playback when removed from your head. You can also activate ambient mode by resting your palm on the right ear cup, which allows you to be aware of what's happening around you, without taking off the headphones.
Other helpful features include the possibility of pairing them with your voice assistant, Bluetooth low-energy, and support for high-resolution audio (via LDAC). They come with a durable carrying case made from premium fabric and an USB-C cable for charging. The headphones are compatible with the majority of Android and iOS smartphones, as well as with computers that run Windows and macOS. The WH-1000XM5's battery life is exceptional. In our test of the standard battery we recorded 31 hours and 53 minute with the ANC on, which was better than Sony's advertised 30-hour battery life.
The WH1000XM5 has a great microphone that can be used for voice calls. There is no static or muffled audio in the background. Noise cancellation is also great, and these headphones are perfect for public transportation and the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, offering top-quality performance and features. This includes 24-bit wireless streaming enhanced active noise cancellation, and crystal clear voice quality on any compatible mobile phone or tablet. The 40mm drivers, which are designed specifically and angled to fit in each earcup, provide a more deep and focused listening experience. Six carefully placed microphones offer exceptional call clarity even in noisy surroundings. A built-in remote and microphone lets you control calls and music on any device compatible with it.
The headphones have a elegant and sleek design to the original PX7. They feature accent rings around the earcups and a silver sheen for the headband. The earcups are cushioned using memory foam and sit comfortably on the cranium, yet never feel tight. The new design and shape took a long time to perfect, providing an incredibly comfortable clamping force that doesn't press too hard, even on my own rotund cranium.
They weigh 2 ounces less (or 307g) and a little thinner than the Sony WH1000XM5. They're light enough to fit in your backpack or bag without much discomfort, and will stay comfortably in place for long listens. The headband can be folded by using a sturdy hinge on the back.
They're powered by Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive support which is great for high-resolution audio and fast video sync. The 3.5mm cord connects to the USB-C port that is located on the right earcup. The headphone's status indicator is a useful gesture with a green flash to indicate rapid charge and solid blue when Bluetooth pairing is active.
The B&W app has similar controls to the onboard buttons in the hardware including bass and treble adjustment and assigning action buttons wear detection, a cycle through ANC modes and more. When you play music on your iPhone, the app displays album covers and track titles. Some popular features like music presets, soundscapes and music mode are not available, however.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is the successor of the iconic headphones from Sennheiser and is designed to meet highest expectations. Its technical construction was optimized to achieve a breath-taking detail resolution that encompasses the entire frequency spectrum, dynamic range and stereo panorama. It also delivers the most realistic sound you'll hear on a pair of open-back headphones.
The headphone is 300 ohms in impedance, therefore a high-quality headphone amplifier is needed to drive it at desired levels without distortion. A balanced connection is recommended, since this can double the power output and enhance the overall sound quality.
The headphones are designed for a professional use and have a sturdy steel frame with a mix of leather and plastic. The design is simple and doesn't resemble an expensive pair of headphones, but they feel luxurious in the hands and are well-built. They come with a carry case, an additional audio cable, and an 1/4" to 1-/8" adapter.
The HD 800 S has a neutral sound that reproduces instruments and vocals with a natural sound, even though they are a little less bass-y. at headphones -back design results in an expansive out-of-head soundstage. The treble quality is excellent with minor peaks and drops. The treble region is also very linear, so you won't have issues with cutting sibilants, or the upper sound of the snare drum.
Despite the lack of a high-pitched bass, they still provide dynamism and impact when needed. These headphones are still great for those who enjoy rock music that has punchy bass however, they may not sound as good as other models on this list.
In the mids they are Sennheiser headphones are hard to beat. They are a linear pair with an incline on the upper mids, which won't be noticed by most listeners. They also have the ability to reproduce fine time gradations in vocals, which is a big plus.
The HD 800 S are a pair exceptional headphones, perfect for audiophiles and professionals. They are a top choice due to their exceptional audio quality and comfortable fit. The headphones are costly, but they will last you for a long time and will perform in any environment.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20
The Anker Soundcore Q20 is a decent pair of headphones for those who wants to relax or simply want an affordable set of headphones that block out noise. They come with a simple pouch that will give them some protection when you toss them into your bag, and their battery can last for multiple long haul flights. The ANC works well to block out noisy seatmates and engine rumbles, however their audio profile is a little warm and bass-heavy.
The Life Q20's controls are simple to navigate and well-marked. On the left ear cup, you'll find buttons to power up and pair the headphones and to turn off or on active noise cancellation. On the right earcup, you'll see controls for playback of media. This includes a multi-function control that activates your phone's voice assistance and switches on Anker BassUp (more about that later). You can also make use of the built-in microphone to make hands-free calls with your phone.
Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphones provide an immersive and deep listening experience, thanks to the custom 40mm dynamic drivers that are certified Hi-Res Audio. With a treble that stretches up to 40 kHz, these headphones can provide outstanding clarity and detail, as their active noise cancellation technology is designed to filter out a wide range of low and mid-frequency sounds.
One thing to keep in mind about the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 is that it doesn't support the aptX codec, which is disappointing. This means that you won't not be able to benefit of the higher codes' lower latency when playing on your computer.
The Life Q20's headband and memory foam earcups are soft enough to wear for long periods without discomfort. The ear cups can also be rotated to accommodate the shape of your head. The included 3.5mm audio cable lets you to listen to music while charging the battery.