The secret?
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A USB-C dongle that plugs into your smartphone, laptop or tablet enabling high-resolution aptX Adaptive sound. What that means is a sound quality that sounds richer, lusher and overall more full than typical Bluetooth. Sennheiser says only 16 per cent of smartphones support native wireless high-resolution sound, and that this dongle brings that capability to the rest of them. High-end audio normally needs much more equipment than this.
Sennheiser’s Smart Control Plus app provides audiophile-level frequency tuning – not just preset bands but adjustable centre frequencies, bandwidths and filter types. These are genuinely useful tools, not just gimmicks, and make music a pleasure to listen to with just a little bit of fiddling.
These headphones may not look special but they do truly sound special, and represent the peak of the genre. They don’t come cheap at $999 but when you also consider the 60-hour battery life, comfort, premium materials and superior noise-cancelling, these headphones are actually great value. They really are top of the pops, whether you’re a true audiophile or an everyday listener.
Apple AirPods Max
Five years after launch, Apple’s AirPods Max remain exceptional – and exceptionally expensive – at $999. The September 2024 USB-C refresh and March 2025 lossless audio update (24-bit/48kHz via cable) modernise connectivity but the ageing H1 chip and lack of new features such as Adaptive Audio make it feel increasingly dated.
These are undeniably premium, however: aluminum and stainless-steel construction, custom 40-millimetre drivers and meticulous industrial design that stands apart from plastic competitors.
The AirPods Max on display at Apple headquarters in California in September 2024.Credit: AP
The sound quality is on point, with wide, immersive sound stage and carefully balanced tuning. The active noise-cancelling is excellent and the transparency mode even more impressive.
There are some sizeable drawbacks. These headphones are about 50 per cent heavier than their competitors, at 375 grams, and the included case offers minimal protection. The 20-hour battery life is far less than competitors, and for Android users they’re simply overpriced noise-cancelling headphones – you lose spatial audio, automatic switching and can’t adjust settings without an iOS device.
For rusted-on Apple users who are willing to pay the premium, however, the AirPods Max are still worthy of consideration even five years later.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra: Industry-leading noise cancellation wrapped in supremely comfortable hardware.Credit:
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
The QuietComfort Ultra delivers what Bose does best: industry-leading noise cancellation wrapped in supremely comfortable hardware. At $649 (frequently $399-$450 on sale) it represents Bose’s most accomplished over-ears yet.
Active noise-cancelling performance edges out the competition, achieving about 87 per cent noise reduction per SoundGuys measurements. Sound quality also impresses, with angled 35-millimetre drivers delivering rich, full-bodied audio.
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The bass-forward signature provides more warmth and body than Sony’s cleaner presentation, though some listeners would prefer Sony’s transparency. Battery life is the main weakness here – 24 hours with active noise cancellation is good but not as strong as rival options. Bose has built its reputation on quality materials – and supreme noise cancellation – and these headphones deliver on both fronts.
Sony WH-1000XM5
Sony’s fifth-generation flagship maintains the gold-standard reputation built over multiple iterations, delivering consistently excellent performance across every key metric. Retailing for $549 (now frequently $370-$445 on sale) it represents the safe, proven choice for travellers and commuters worldwide.
The redesigned 30-millimetre carbon fibre drivers produce clearer, more detailed sound than the previous model, with improved bass precision and a warm signature that suits most genres well. The active noise-cancelling is basically just as good as Bose, using eight microphones and dual processors to achieve about 86 per cent noise reduction. Office chatter, be gone!
Sony WH-1000XM5: Delivers consistently excellent performance across every key metric.Credit:
The all-plastic construction feels less premium than its price tag suggests, and the hinges can feel a bit flimsy and weak. Overall, though, these Sonys are arguably the most well-rounded value option for most buyers, especially at sale prices. They’re an easy recommendation.
Sonos Ace
Sonos’ first set of Bluetooth headphones came with a lot of drama when they were launched last year. The revamped Sonos app sparked a whole host of bugs and issues, which irritated customers and eventually led to the resignation of chief executive Patrick Spence.
Sonos Ace wireless headphones.
Those issues have been resolved, and the Ace stands up as a strong alternative option, particularly for home-theatre enthusiasts or those who already have Sonos speakers.
The cans deliver outstanding noise cancellation that rivals Apple and Bose, along with impressive 30-hour battery life.
The sound quality is strong, though the tuning clearly prioritises cinematic content over music.
Perhaps the most impressive feature is the unique TV Audio Swap feature, which seamlessly switches audio between Sonos soundbars (Arc, Beam, Ray) and headphones. For Sonos Soundbar owners and movie enthusiasts, the Sonos Ace is, well, ace.
Dyson OnTrac
Dyson’s second attempt at headphones proves the company learnt valuable lessons from the ill-fated Zone. At $799 (recently discounted to $399), the OnTrac ditches gimmicks for fundamentals: premium over-ears with industry-leading 55-hour battery life, strong active noise-cancelling and uniquely customisable design. The aluminum and ceramic construction feels premium, with round ear cups housing custom 40-millimetre drivers delivering 6Hz-21kHz frequency response.
The Dyson OnTrac headphones, with interchangeable ear caps.Credit:
For Dyson fans, or those who prioritise battery life and distinctive design over absolute sound quality, the OnTrac is a compelling option, particularly at heavily discounted street prices under $400. The likes of Sony and Bose, at full retail $799, offer better sound and value, though neither match the OnTrac’s battery life nor customisation options.
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