When it comes to quality headphones in the market, consumers are spoilt for choice. There’s something in every price segment, and for all musical genres. These audiophile headphones are known for their ergonomic designs and, above all, for their superb sound. That’s why enthusiasts don’t think twice before shelling out big money on their favourite pair. But spending your cash indiscriminately is not advisable. You need to carefully research your options before settling on a headphones brand and type that suits you best. Here’s a handy list that might help you do that.
SENNHEISER HD800
Sennheiser HD800 has been specifically engineered for replicating the basic acoustic conditions of natural hearing. The headphone comes with a thick and mesh-covered detachable cable which ends in a gold plated 6.3mm jack which is protected by the long metal sleeve. The ear pads are made of special high-quality Japanese Alcantara; while the headband and headphone mounting utilizes the most advanced development from the aerospace industry. In terms of connectivity, these headphones utilize specially designed, four-wire, high-performance connections with Teflon insulation. The Sennheiser HD-800 is for the discriminating audiophile seeking the best and most natural sound available. From rich bass lows to definitive highs, the Sennheiser HD-800 headphones deliver the exclusive sound that nature had intended. Sennheiser HD800 is priced at Rs 84,900.
BOSE QUIETCONTROL 35
Bose QuietControl 35 wireless headphones are engineered with world-class noise cancellation that makes quiet sound quieter and music sound better. Volume-optimised EQ gives you balanced audio performance at any volume, while a noise-rejecting dual microphone provides clear calls, even in windy or noisy environments. Voice prompts and intuitive controls make communicating and controlling your music hassle-free. A lithium-ion battery gives you up to 20 hours of wireless play time per charge. Premium materials make these headphones lightweight and comfortable for all-day listening. The outer part of the ear cups are made of the metal and the frame and headband are made of the thick plastic. QuietControl 35 has a wide and encompassing soundstage and Bose also uses digital equalizer that automatically tweaks the sound. Bose QuietControl 35 is priced at Rs 29,636.
SHURE SRH1840 PROFESSIONAL
Shure SRH1840 Professional feature individually matched drivers for unparalleled acoustic performance with smooth, extended highs and accurate bass. The headphone is developed with premium materials and precision engineering; the custom-crafted design is extremely lightweight and durable. Additional cable and zippered storage case provide years of listening enjoyment and convenient storage. The headphone features oxygen-free copper cable with Kevlar reinforced jacket for superior performance and durability. It also comes with Dual-exit cables with gold-plated MMCX connectors which provide secure connection and detachability for easy storage or replacement and aircraft-grade aluminum alloy yoke and stainless steel grilles for enhanced durability. Shure SRH1840 Professional is priced at Rs 43,900.
GRADO RS2E
Grado RS2e has enhanced the natural properties of the wood to produce rich, full-bodied vocals with the help of its 44mm driver unit and the e Series 8 conductor cable design. The RS2e still maintains an overall sound that is pure Grado, with warm harmonic colors, rich full bodied vocals, excellent dynamics, and an ultra-smooth top end. The headphone features seven-foot-long double-sided cable that terminates in a gold-plated 1/4-inch plug. The RS2e is easy to drive and can work with a large range of audio setups including your phones. The open-back nature enables the RS2e to exhibit an exceptionally wide soundstage, delivering some of the most lively and immersive stereo experience possible. Grado RS2e is priced at Rs 48,000.
SONY MDR-1ADAC
Sony MDR-1ADAC is a noise Canceling Over-Ear Headphones which features Removable 3.5mm cable, 40mm dynamic driver and Faux leather-coated pads. The headphone also offers top-notch comfort and highly enjoyable sound. In terms of design, headphone’s outer parts of the cups are covered with cast aluminum. MDR-1ADAC comes with removable cable and the bundled cable is of 1.2m portable length. The headphone also features an inbuilt DAC that allows digital feed from a computer or USB audio-enabled phone. In terms of sound, headphone offer emphasized bass with refined sound and also offer wide soundstage. It also offers balanced sound with mid-range tone and sophisticated sounding treble. Sony MDR-1ADAC is priced at Rs 42,246.