Best Over-Ear Headphones

Over-ear headphones cover your ears and plunge you in audio. They are usually designed for audiophiles and feature features like active noise cancellation and control applications.

The Focal Bathys is a wireless speaker that includes ANC, a mobile app to alter the EQ and Headphone shops uk presets. They also support high-res audio via USB-C for wired listening.

Sony WH-1000XM5

The WH1000XM5 earphones from Sony are the latest model in their noise cancellation line-up. The headphones feature a brand new design and have improved ANC. They also come with many of the same features, but they have superior sound quality and higher-end materials.

They're extremely light for over-ear ANC headphones, with just 250g. This makes them extremely comfortable to wear for long periods of time, even when you're listening to a podcast or book. The headband has a friction-rod design similar to the Grado Labs SR60x, which prevents your ears getting too cold.

With a sound quality that is able to please people who listen to music for no reason and serious audiophiles, WH-1000XM5's signature is tuned to put a little emphasis on bass but is not excessively loud or harsh. They feature a wide and open soundstage with good instrument separation that lets you hear specifics in your music. The earcups have touch controls that are intuitive and responsive. Swipe forward to go to the next track, back to listen to the previous one as well as up and down to control the volume. The headphones can be connected to two devices at once and will automatically pause playback when you remove them from your head, thanks to the built-in sensor. You can also switch on ambient mode by resting your palm on the right earcup, which allows you to hear what's going on around you, without taking 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). The headphones come with a carry case made of top quality fabric and the USB-C charging cable. The headphones work with the majority of Android and iOS smartphones and computers operating Windows and macOS. The battery longevity of the WH1000XM5 is exceptional. In our most basic test we were able achieve 31 hours and 53 minutes when the ANC turned on which is more than Sony's advertised battery life of 30 hours.

The WH1000XM5 comes with a fantastic microphone for making calls. There's no static or muffled audio in the background. The noise-canceling performance is also top-quality and they're a perfect option for public transport as well as the office.

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2

The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, delivering high-end performance and features. The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 comes with premium performance and features, including 24-bit wireless streaming with active noise cancellation that is optimized and clear voice calls on any compatible mobile or tablet. The 40mm drivers, that are custom-designed and angled in each earcup, provide a more complete and focused listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones provide exceptional call clarity even in noisy surroundings. An inline remote and microphone lets you manage your music and calls on any device compatible with it.

The headphones sport a similar elegant and refined design as the original PX7. They feature accent rings around the earcups and a silver-colored headband. The earcups are cushioned by memory foam and sit comfortably on the cranium, but they never feel tight. The redesigned form and shape took a long time to perfect, providing a comfortable clamping force that doesn't press too hard, even on my own rotund cranium.

They are 2 ounces lighter (or 307g) and a bit thinner than the Sony WH1000XM5. The headphones are lightweight enough to be carried in a bag or backpack and are comfortable to wear during long listening sessions. A strong hinge on the back of the headband lets you to fold them up 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 as well as tight video sync. The included 3.5mm cord connects to the USB-C port located on the right earcup. The headphone shops uk (go to this web-site)'s status indicator is a helpful feature, flashing green to indicate a rapid charge, and solid blue when Bluetooth pairing is in use.

The B&W app offers similar controls to the onboard buttons in the hardware such as bass and treble adjustments, action button assignment, wear detection, cycle through ANC modes and more. The app also displays an album cover and track's name when you play music from your iPhone. However, popular extras like music presets and headphone shops uk soundscapes feature aren't available.

Sennheiser HD 800 S

The HD 800 S is the successor of the iconic headphones by Sennheiser and is designed to meet highest expectations. Its engineering was optimized to achieve an incredible detail resolution that covers the entire frequency spectrum, dynamic range and stereo panorama. It also offers the most realistic spatial sound you'll hear on a pair of open-back headphones.

The headphone is 300 ohms in impedance, so a good headphone amplifier will be needed to ensure it is operating at the desired levels without distortion. It is recommended to utilize a balanced connection, which will double the output and improve the quality of sound.

These headphones are made for professional use. They have a metal frame and a mixture of plastic and leather padding. The design is minimalistic and they don't look fancy however the quality of the headphones and their build are excellent. They come with a carrying case, an additional audio cable and a 1/4" to 1-/8" adapter.

With a neutral sound profile, the HD 800 S reproduces natural instruments and vocals, even though they are somewhat light on bass. The open-back design creates a spacious, out-of-head soundstage. The treble quality is excellent, with minor peaks and drops. The treble region also has a linearity and you won't have any issues with piercingsibilants or the upper bite of the drum snare.

They still have the ability to deliver, dynamism and impact in the event of need, despite the absence of a loud low-end. They'll still be enjoyable for those who enjoy listening to music with punchy basslines, but they may not sound as fun as some of the models on this list, such as the HiFiMan Arya.

These Sennheiser headphones have a fantastic midrange. They are linear with a slight scoop on the upper mids that won't be noticed by most listeners. They also can reproduce fine time gradations which is an added benefit.

The HD 800 S are a pair of exceptional headphones, ideal for audiophiles and professionals. Their impressive sonic performance and comfortable fit make them a top option. The headphones are costly, but they'll last for years and perform well in any situation.

Anker Soundcore Life Q20

The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 are a decent pair of headphones that will provide the perfect solution for anyone who needs to relax or simply needs a cheap set of noise cancelling headphones. They come with a simple pouch that provides protection when you toss them in a bag and their battery can last for multiple long haul flights. Their ANC is capable of blocking out chattering seatmates and engine rumbles when on a plane, though their audio profile is warmer and bass-heavy.

The controls on the Life Q20 are well-marked and easy to use. On the left earcup you'll find buttons to power up and pair the headphones and for turning on or off active noise cancellation. On the right earcup, you'll find media playback controls. This includes a multi-function control that activates your phone's voice assistance and switches on Anker BassUp (more about that later). The built-in mic can be used to make phone calls hands-free.

Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphones offer a rich and immersive listening experience, thanks to the custom 40 mm dynamic drivers that are certified Hi-Res Audio. With a treble that stretches up to 40 kHz the headphones are able to provide exceptional clarity and detail, while their active noise cancellation technology is designed to filter out an extended range of mid- and low-frequency sounds.

One important thing to be aware of about the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 is that it doesn't support aptX, which is a disappointment. This means you won't in a position to benefit from the superior codec's low latency when playing on your computer.

The Life Q20's headband and memory foam ear cups are soft enough to wear for long periods without discomfort. The ear cups can also rotate to adapt to the shape of your head. The included 3.5mm audio cable allows you to listen to music while charging the battery.