Tag: Premium Headphones

  • Jabra Evolve3 Headphones: 120-Hour Battery & No Mic Arm

    Jabra Evolve3 Headphones: 120-Hour Battery & No Mic Arm

    Key Takeaways

    1. Jabra has launched the Evolve3 75 and Evolve3 85 headphones aimed at high-end productivity users.
    2. The Evolve3 series features a new design without a dedicated boom microphone, using multiple microphones and advanced software for noise cancellation.
    3. Key features include adaptive noise cancellation, Spatial Sound, replaceable batteries, high-fidelity audio codec support, and wireless charging.
    4. The Evolve3 85 offers up to 120 hours of battery life (music) and 25 hours (calls), while the Evolve3 75 offers up to 110 hours (music) and 22 hours (calls).
    5. Pricing is set at $649 for the Evolve3 85 and $463 for the Evolve3 75, with availability starting March 1 for the black color option.

    Following the official announcements made earlier this month, Jabra has officially introduced the Evolve3 75 and Evolve3 85 headphones, targeting the high-end productivity market. Notably, the Evolve3 series brings a significant alteration from previous models—an update that may not sit well with everyone.

    Changes to the Design

    Unlike earlier versions, the Evolve3 series lacks a dedicated boom microphone. This change makes the Evolve3 resemble other high-end headphones much more closely. The headphones will employ a traditional multiple microphone system, complemented by advanced software and built-in intelligence aimed at eliminating background noise.

    Features and Performance

    Similar to other high-end headphones on the market, the Evolve3 includes adaptive noise cancellation. Other key features comprise Spatial Sound, replaceable batteries, and support for high-fidelity audio codecs (LC3, SBC, AAC), alongside wireless charging. The Evolve3 85, which is the over-ear model, boasts a claimed battery life of 120 hours for music and 25 hours for calls (with ANC switched off). In contrast, the on-ear Evolve3 75 is rated for 110 hours and 22 hours for music and calls, respectively.

    Of course, actual battery life can only be confirmed through independent testing, but the reported specifications are certainly remarkable. There’s also fast charging technology available, allowing for 10 hours of usage from just a quick 10-minute charge.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Jabra Evolve3 85 will be priced at an MSRP of $649, while the Evolve3 75 comes in at $463. Interestingly, the black color option for both models will hit the stores starting March 1, while the warm gray variant will be released a month later. For those not looking to spend this much on headphones, the Sony WH-1000-XM5 is currently listed at just $298 on Amazon and could be a great alternative.

    Jabra, as highlighted by TechPowerUp.

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  • Bowers & Wilkins Launches Px8 S2 McLaren Edition Flagship Headphones

    Bowers & Wilkins Launches Px8 S2 McLaren Edition Flagship Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition features a unique color scheme of Anthracite Grey and Papaya Orange, inspired by Bruce McLaren’s first racing car.
    2. The design changes include the McLaren logo on the headband and carrying case, while technical specifications remain the same as the regular Px8 S2.
    3. The Px8 S2 offers excellent sound quality, 40 mm carbon-fibre drivers, and supports Qualcomm aptX Lossless and Bluetooth Multipoint for high-quality audio.
    4. The headphones include a five-band equalizer, weigh 310 g, and provide up to 30 hours of battery life on a single charge.
    5. The McLaren Edition is priced at $899, available from the B&W online store, while the standard edition costs $799 and is sold at various retailers.

    Although the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 just launched in September, B&W has quickly released the first special edition of these headphones. The McLaren Edition stands out from the regular Px8 S2 mainly due to its unique color scheme, which features a mix of Anthracite Grey and Papaya Orange, paying homage to Bruce McLaren’s inaugural racing car.

    Design Features

    Both the headband and the carrying case sport a McLaren logo. The technical specifications of the headphones remain unchanged, so B&W has set a higher price just for the design alterations. After reviewing the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2, we noted that it produces excellent sound quality and impressive craftsmanship. However, while the noise cancellation is good, it doesn’t quite reach the top level, and the smart features available are somewhat limited.

    Technical Specs

    The Px8 S2 is equipped with 40 mm carbon-fibre drivers and a sophisticated wireless module that supports Qualcomm aptX Lossless and Bluetooth Multipoint. When linked to a source device through USB-C, the headphones can provide 24-bit lossless audio for high-quality sound playback. A five-band equalizer is also included, giving users the ability to adjust the audio to their liking. Weighing in at 310 g (10.93 oz), the Px8 S2 can last up to 30 hours on a single charge.

    Pricing and Availability

    With a price tag of $899, the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition is now available on the official B&W online store, with shipping slated to start on November 21. In contrast, the standard edition is priced at $100 less and can be found at retailers like Amazon.

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    Bowers & Wilkins Launches Px8 S2 McLaren Edition Flagship HeadphonesBowers & Wilkins Launches Px8 S2 McLaren Edition Flagship HeadphonesBowers & Wilkins Launches Px8 S2 McLaren Edition Flagship HeadphonesBowers & Wilkins Launches Px8 S2 McLaren Edition Flagship Headphones

     

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  • Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 Headphones: Better ANC & Spatial Audio

    Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 Headphones: Better ANC & Spatial Audio

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sleeker and More Comfortable Design: The Px8 S2 features a streamlined design and a more durable headband for improved comfort compared to the original Px8.

    2. High-Quality Materials: Made from premium nappa leather, memory foam earcups, and aluminum arms, the Px8 S2 offers luxury and durability, with replaceable components available.

    3. Advanced Technical Features: Equipped with custom-designed 40mm carbon fiber diaphragms, a new dedicated headphone amplifier, and support for aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless codecs.

    4. Enhanced Active Noise Cancellation: The improved ANC uses eight strategically placed microphones for better noise reduction and call quality, thanks to ADI PureVoice technology.

    5. Spatial Audio and User-Friendly App: The Px8 S2 supports Spatial Audio and can be customized via the Bowers & Wilkins Music app, allowing users to adjust settings like the 5-band equalizer.

    Bowers & Wilkins has introduced its latest high-end headphones known as the Px8 S2. This new model sits above the Px8 that was launched in 2022, featuring an upgraded design and some interesting enhancements.

    Sleeker Design for Comfort

    Compared to the original Px8, the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 are more streamlined. The company claims that this new design improves comfort levels over earlier versions. A significant alteration is the headband, which is now said to be more durable than before.

    Premium Materials Used

    As expected from high-end headphones, the Px8 S2 is crafted from top-notch materials. They are wrapped in nappa leather, equipped with memory foam earcups, and have aluminum arms. Additionally, users can purchase replacement earcups and headband cushions when they eventually wear down.

    Advanced Technical Features

    In terms of technology, the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 includes custom-designed 40mm carbon fiber diaphragms similar to the Px8, but with updated driver chassis, suspension, and magnet systems. It also features a new dedicated headphone amplifier and DSP, and the drivers have been fine-tuned to minimize distortion. The Px8 S2 supports aptX Adaptive (24-bit/96 kHz) and aptX Lossless, and Bowers & Wilkins has announced that an OTA software update will add support for the LC3 codec and Auracast.

    Enhanced Active Noise Cancellation

    Another notable upgrade in the Px8 S2 is the enhanced active noise cancellation (ANC), made possible by the addition of more microphones. The new model boasts eight microphones, in contrast to the six found in the Px8. These microphones are strategically placed for optimal performance. The improved microphones, combined with the brand’s ADI PureVoice technology, also enhance call quality.

    Spatial Audio Compatibility

    Similar to the Px7 S3, which retails on Amazon for $479 and were the first from Bowers & Wilkins to feature Spatial Audio, the Px8 S2 also supports this technology. It employs a proprietary decoding and processing technique for superior audio experiences.

    User-Friendly App

    Owners of the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 can update their headphones through the Bowers & Wilkins Music app. This app allows users to modify the 5-band equalizer, and they can opt to disable the equalizer to experience True Sound mode instead.

    Impressive Battery Life

    The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 maintain the same 30 hours of battery life (with ANC enabled) as the Px8, and they also feature fast charging capabilities (a 15-minute charge offers 7 hours of playback). When not in use, the headphones can be folded flat and stored in the included carrying case, which has a separate area for a USB-C to 3.5mm audio cable and a USB-C to USB-C audio cable.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 are priced at €729, a notable increase from the €529 price tag of the Px8. They are also available in the United States for $799 and in the UK for £629. The headphones come in two color options: Onyx Black and Warm Stone, and can be purchased directly from Bowers & Wilkins or on Amazon.

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  • Bang & Olufsen Beo Grace: Flagship Headphones for $1,500

    Bang & Olufsen Beo Grace: Flagship Headphones for $1,500

    Key Takeaways

    – The B&O Beo Grace headphones are the brand’s most expensive model to date, priced at $1,500.
    – They feature an aluminum casing certified IP57 for waterproofing and have advanced touch controls for volume adjustment.
    – Equipped with six microphones, these headphones offer an enhanced active noise cancellation system and support spatial audio.
    – Sound customization is available through a smartphone app, but Bluetooth support is limited to AAC and SBC codecs.
    – The charging case offers dual charging options (wireless and USB-C) but has non-replaceable batteries with a lifespan of 2,000 cycles.

    The B&O Beo Grace stands out as the priciest headphones from the brand so far. Bang & Olufsen aims to justify this steep cost with a high-quality aluminum casing that’s certified IP57 and waterproof. Additionally, these earphones come with some unique features. For example, users can control the volume by tapping the area near their ears with a finger, eliminating the need to physically touch the earphones.

    Advanced Features and Performance

    Equipped with six microphones, B&O boasts an active noise cancellation (ANC) system that is claimed to be four times better than previous models. They also promote “TrueTransparency,” which is said to deliver a more natural transparency mode. These truly wireless headphones support spatial audio as well, enhancing the listening experience.

    Customization and Connectivity

    The sound can be fine-tuned using an equalizer available in the related smartphone app. B&O has also integrated an intriguing feature from the B&W Pi8, which is priced at $499 on Amazon. This feature allows users to connect devices to the charging case using USB-C or AUX, streaming audio to the earphones via Bluetooth.

    However, it’s disappointing that these headphones only support Bluetooth codecs like AAC and SBC; the LC3 codec is only available if devices are connected to the charging case via cable. The titanium drivers measure 12mm in diameter and are purportedly capable of producing bass as low as 10 Hz. B&O claims a battery life of up to 4.5 hours with ANC on, or 17 hours when paired with the charging case.

    Charging and Availability

    The case offers dual charging options, either wirelessly or through USB-C. It’s a bit of a letdown that the headphones were designed “for the century ahead” yet the batteries are not replaceable; still, they do provide a reasonable lifespan with 2,000 charging cycles.

    You can now preorder the Bang & Olufsen Beo Grace for $1,500 through the manufacturer’s official online store, with initial deliveries anticipated to start on November 17, 2025. Included with the purchase are silicone eartips in four different sizes, while a leather case can be bought separately for $400.

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    Bang & Olufsen Beo Grace: Flagship Headphones for $1,500Bang & Olufsen Beo Grace: Flagship Headphones for $1,500Bang & Olufsen Beo Grace: Flagship Headphones for $1,500Bang & Olufsen Beo Grace: Flagship Headphones for $1,500

     

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  • Skullcandy Aviator 900 ANC Headphones: Retro Style at $299

    Key Takeaways

    1. Affordable Pricing: Skullcandy Aviator 900 ANC headphones are priced at $299, making them cheaper than competitors like Sony WH-1000XM6 and Sonos Ace.

    2. Retro Design and Controls: The headphones feature a retro design, a joystick for playback, a small LED screen for battery and volume info, and customizable controls on the earcups.

    3. Heavy Yet Portable: Weighing 332 grams, they are heavier than some competitors; however, they come with a crossbody bag instead of a traditional case for portability.

    4. Advanced Features: The headphones include 40mm drivers, six microphones for adaptive ANC, THX Spatial Audio, ear detection, and support for Bluetooth 5.3 and Google Fast Pair.

    5. Long Battery Life: With up to 60 hours of playtime (50 hours with ANC), they feature a quick charge option that provides 4 hours of playtime after just 10 minutes of charging.

    Skullcandy has been in the audio market for a long time, but their latest Aviator 900 ANC is their best headphones yet. Priced at $299, these headphones are cheaper than competitors like the Sony WH-1000XM6 and the Sonos Ace.

    Design and Features

    These headphones come in only one color—True Black—and feature a retro design that is evident in their overall appearance and control layout. On the right earcup, you’ll find a power button that stays in place until you press it again. Below this button is a small joystick for playback control, and atop it, a tiny LED screen shows information like battery life and volume level. The left earcup includes a custom button and a recessed dial for volume adjustment.

    The earcups are made with memory foam and are covered in leatherette, while the bottom of the headband is fabric, and the top matches the leatherette of the earcups. As stated in the specifications, the headphones have a nano-coating that protects against sweat and water.

    Weight and Portability

    Although Skullcandy claims the headphones have a foldable and collapsible design, they come with a crossbody bag instead of a case, which is a unique touch. Weighing in at 332 grams, they are heavier than the Sony WH-1000XM6, which is 254 grams and available on Amazon for $448.

    The Aviator 900 ANC features 40mm drivers, six microphones for adaptive ANC, and THX Spatial Audio with head tracking. It also includes ear detection, Bluetooth 5.3 with Low Energy Audio, and an aux port for wired use. Additionally, these headphones support Google Fast Pair with Find My support and Bluetooth Multipoint. There’s also a low-latency mode for gamers and for watching movies and TV shows.

    Battery Life and App Integration

    Skullcandy claims that the Aviator 900 ANC can last up to 60 hours on a single charge, but this drops to 50 hours when ANC is active. A quick 10-minute charge via USB-C can give you up to 4 hours of playtime. The headphones are compatible with the Skullcandy app, allowing users to customize preset EQ modes or create their own.

    You can now pre-order the Skullcandy Aviator 900 ANC on their website, with shipping expected to begin in mid-June.

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  • Dyson OnTrac Headphones: Best Noise Cancellation & Luxury Comfort

    Dyson OnTrac Headphones: Best Noise Cancellation & Luxury Comfort

    Dyson has recently unveiled its latest headphone model, the Dyson OnTrac, which promises superior audio quality and what it claims to be top-tier noise cancellation.

    Dyson OnTrac Headphones: Specs & Features

    The OnTrac is equipped with an 8-microphone system and a custom Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) algorithm that can cancel out up to 40dB of ambient noise. The headphones deliver high-fidelity audio with a broad frequency range from 6Hz to 21kHz, ensuring clear highs and rich bass.

    Comfort has been prioritized in the design, featuring ultra-soft microfiber cushions, multi-pivot gimbal arms for a snug fit, and balanced weight distribution thanks to a uniquely placed battery in the headband. Additionally, users can personalize their headphones with over 2,000 color combinations for ear cups and caps, available in finishes like CNC aluminum, copper, nickel, or a ceramic-feel painted option.

    Battery Life and Connectivity

    The battery life is notably long, offering up to 55 hours of use with ANC on, which equates to about two weeks of listening on a single charge. The MyDyson app provides functionalities to monitor sound levels, adjust EQ settings (Bass Boost, Neutral, Enhanced), and receive automatic software updates.

    Additional Features

    • Head Detect: Automatically pauses audio when the headphones are removed and resumes when they are put back on.
    • Intuitive Joystick: Allows users to play, pause, skip tracks, or activate voice commands.
    • Crystal-Clear Calls: Dual beam-forming microphones ensure clear voice capture.
    • Real-time Soundtracking: Monitors both in-ear and external volume levels, alerting users to potentially harmful levels via the MyDyson app.

    The Dyson OnTrac headphones are priced at $499.99, with additional ear cup and cap colors available for $49.99 each.

    In other news, Beats by Dr. Dre has collaborated with Minecraft to launch special edition Solo 4 headphones in celebration of the game’s 15th anniversary. These headphones feature a Minecraft-themed design and include a customized storage case and a redemption code for in-game items. They support Bluetooth, USB-C, and 3.5mm connectivity, offer up to 50 hours of battery life, and come with personalized spatial audio.

    Dyson OnTrac Headphones: Best Noise Cancellation & Luxury Comfort
    Dyson OnTrac Headphones: Best Noise Cancellation & Luxury Comfort
    Dyson OnTrac Headphones: Best Noise Cancellation & Luxury Comfort
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  • Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus Wireless Headphones Launch in European Markets

    Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus Wireless Headphones Launch in European Markets

    Sennheiser has recently launched its newest ACCENTUM Plus headphones in the European market, debuting at CES 2024. These headphones are now accessible for purchase directly from Sennheiser or through retailers like Amazon.

    Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus Specs, Features & Pricing

    The emphasis of the ACCENTUM Plus design lies in comfort and practicality, featuring soft material ear cushions, a silicone headband, and a design that allows for rotation, making them easier to carry. These headphones come equipped with touch controls for easy operation and incorporate dual microphone technology to enhance call clarity.

    The audio quality of the ACCENTUM Plus is driven by the SYS32 transducer and a 37mm dynamic driver, showcasing Sennheiser's commitment to superior sound. Users can customize their listening experience with a 5-band equalizer integrated into the headphones.

    Advanced Features

    One of the key features of the ACCENTUM Plus is its adaptive noise cancellation technology, which adapts to ambient noise levels, providing an immersive listening experience. Additionally, they feature an automatic wind protection mode and a transparent listening mode for safety and awareness purposes.

    Noteworthy for its extended battery life of 50 hours, the ACCENTUM Plus also offers rapid charging capabilities, delivering 5 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge. These headphones support Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity and are compatible with various codecs such as SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX adaptive.

    Dual-Microphone Setup and Pricing

    The dual-microphone setup is designed to reduce background noise during calls, ensuring clear voice communication. Available in black and white color options, the Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus headphones are priced at 229.90 euros.

    Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus Wireless Headphones Launch in European Markets

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