Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones totally encase your ears and allow you to fully immerse in the sound. They tend to be designed for audiophiles and feature features like active noise cancellation and control applications.
The Focal Bathys is a wireless device that includes ANC, a mobile app to alter the EQ and presets. They also support high-res audio via USB-C for wired listening.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The WH1000XM5 headphones from Sony are the most recent upgrade in their noise cancellation lineup. They have a fresh new design, upgraded ANC, and many of the same features as their predecessors, but with better materials and slightly higher quality sound.
With only 250g, they are lightweight for over-ear ANC headsets. This makes them extremely comfortable to wear for long periods of time, even if you're listening to a podcast or a book. The headband is a friction-rod design similar to the Grado Labs SR60x, which keeps your ears from getting too cold.
The WH-1000XM5 comes with a distinct sound signature created to please casual music listeners as and serious audiophiles. It is tuned with a slight increase in bass, yet it's not abrasive or overpowering. The earphones have a large and open soundstage, with good separation of instruments. This allows you to be able to hear the finer details of your music. The earcups have control buttons that are easy to use and responsive. You can swipe forward to access the next track, back to hear the previous track and then up and down to control 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 turn on ambient mode by resting your palm on the right earcup and allowing you to be aware of what's happening around you without removing the headphones.
Other features that are useful include the ability to pair them with your voice assistant, Bluetooth low-energy, and support for hi-res audio (via LDAC). They come with a sturdy carrying case made from top quality fabric, as well as a USB-C cable to charge. The headphones work with Android and iOS smartphones, as well as computers running Windows or macOS. The battery longevity of the WH-1000XM5 is excellent. In our test, we were able to achieve 31 hours and 53 minutes with the ANC activated which is much better than Sony's advertised battery time of 30 hours.
The WH1000XM5 has a great mic for voice calls. There is no static or muffled audio in the background. The noise-canceling performance is also top-quality and they're a great fit for public transport or the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a major upgrade from its predecessor, offering high-end performance and features. It features wireless streaming with 24-bit and optimized active noise cancellation, and clear voice call quality on any compatible mobile phone or tablet. Its custom-designed 40mm drivers are precisely positioned inside each earcup to provide a more focused, deep listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones guarantee superior call clarity even in noisy environments. A built-in remote and microphone lets you control calls and music from any device that is compatible.
As with the original PX7, these headphones are sleek and elegant with accent rings around each earcup as well as a silver sheen on the headband. The memory foam earcups fit snugly, but not too tightly on the cranium. The new shape and form was refined over a period of time and provides an incredibly comfortable clamping pressure that doesn't force hard on my own skull.
At 10.8 grams (or 307g) They weigh 2 ounces lighter than Sony WH-1000XM5, as well as just a little smaller. The headphones are light enough to be carried in a backpack or bag and stay in place comfortably during long listening sessions. The headband can be folded up using a sturdy hinge at the back.
The headphones are powered by Bluetooth 5.2, with the aptX Adaptive. This is ideal for high-resolution audio as well as tight video sync. The 3.5mm cord connects to the USB-C port that is located on the right earcup. The status indicator on the earphone is a nice addition. It flashes green to signal rapid charging, and solid blue to indicate Bluetooth pairing.
The B&W app has the same controls as the onboard buttons in the hardware including bass and treble adjustment, action button assignment wear detection, a cycle through ANC modes, and more. The app also shows an album cover and track title when you play music on your iPhone. However, some popular features such as music presets or a soundscapes feature aren't available.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is the successor to the legendary headphones from Sennheiser, and it is meant to meet the highest expectations. Its technical construction was designed to provide stunning detail resolution that covers the entire frequency spectrum, dynamic range and stereo panorama. It also offers the most realistic sound you'll hear with an open-back pair of headphones.
The headphone has 300 ohms of impedance, so a good headphone amplifier is required to ensure it is operating at the desired levels without distortion. It is recommended to utilize a balanced connection, which will increase the output and enhance the quality of sound.
The headphones are designed for professional use and feature a sturdy metal frame with a mix of leather and plastic. The design is minimalist and they don't look fancy however the quality of the headphones and their construction are superb. They come with a carrying pouch as well as an additional audio cable and a 1/4" to 1/8" adapter.
With an unison sound profile, the HD 800 S reproduces natural instruments and vocals, even though they are light in bass. The open-back design results in a spacious out-of-head soundstage. The treble performance is outstanding with only minor peaks and dips. The Treble region also is linear and you won't have any issues with piercingsibilants or even the upper bite of the drum snare.
They can still provide impact and dynamism when needed despite the lack of a loud low-end. They will still be enjoyable for those who like listening to rock music with punchy basslines, but they may not sound as fun as some of the other models on this list such as the HiFiMan Arya.
The Sennheiser headphones have a fantastic midrange. They are extremely linear and have a slight scoop in the upper mids, which shouldn't be noticeable to most listeners. They also have the ability to reproduce precise time gradations of vocals which is a major benefit.
headphones shops is a pair of exceptional headphones that are perfect for audiophiles and professionals. Their impressive sonic performance and comfortable fit make them a top choice. They are expensive, but they will last you for many years and perform in any setting.
Anker Soundcore Life q20
The Anker Soundcore Q20 is a good set of headphones for anyone looking to pass the time or simply want an affordable pair of noise cancelling headphones. The headphones come with a simple bag that will protect them when you throw them into bags. Their battery can last multiple long-haul flights. The ANC is a great way to block out loud passengers and engine rumbles, but their audio profile is a bit heavy and warm.
The controls on the Life Q20 are well-marked and easy to use. On the left earcup, you'll find buttons to pair and power up the headphones as well as turning on or off the active noise cancellation. On the right ear cup you'll find controls for playback of media that include a multi-function switch which lets you turn on your phone's voice assistant and switch on Anker's BassUp feature (more on this later). You can also utilize the built-in microphone in order to make calls without hands your phone.
Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphones offer a rich and immersive listening experience, thanks to the custom 40 mm dynamic drivers that provide certified Hi-Res Audio. With a treble range that extends up to 40 kHz they offer exceptional clarity and detail, as their hybrid active noise cancelling technology is designed to filter out an extended range of low and mid-frequency sounds.
Anker Soundcore Q20 does not support aptX. This is a disappointment. This means that you won't not be able take advantage of the higher codes' lower latency while playing on your computer.
The Life Q20's headband and memory foam earcups are comfortable enough to wear for extended periods of time without discomfort. The ear cups also be rotated to accommodate your individual head shape. The included 3.5mm audio cable allows you to listen to music while charging the battery.