Music lovers prefer to use high-quality headphones at home so that no extraneous sounds interfere with their enjoyment of their favorite tracks. Advanced gamers also prefer to use wired full-size headphones, because these devices completely cover the auricle, cutting off the user from the outside world - there is a complete immersion in the virtual world and their favorite game.
Users who want to know all the features and differences between modern models of headphones with durable and soft ear pads are invited to carefully read the article we offer.
What is this device
Full-size headphones connected via a reliable wire are an ideal gift for a music lover; you can listen to it at any time, turn up the volume at full volume, but not disturb those around you from doing their own thing. The design feature is that they completely cover the auricle and do not let in extraneous sounds from outside.
Wired products have a fairly flexible wire and ear pads with very high-quality insulation; in addition, they create additional space for sound propagation and prevent it from penetrating outside the headphones. Passionate fans of computer games also love to use such products.
Audeze Mobius
Here we have headphones for gamers and audiophiles. American ]Audeze[/anchor] specializes in creating impeccably high-quality magnetic planar headphones, and Mobius was no exception. He also got interesting technologies for games, and the wireless form factor completes the experiment. In the end it turned out unusual and good.
Presentation and scope of delivery
Unpacking begins with a double cardboard box, inside we find headphones and a set of accessories: a fabric pouch, a detachable microphone, a 3.5 cable, a standard USB cable and a USB Type-C cable. Except there is no hard case here, which is sad.
Design and comfort
The Mobius themselves are made of soft touch plastic, they are large, and the assembly is excellent. Everything else is of traditional quality - ear pads made of excellent leatherette with memory foam, soft padding on the headband, clear adjustment. Fit comfort is better than average; after very long hours wearing the headphones, perhaps some fatigue is felt, but I did not have any problems with the usual duration of use.
Technologies and characteristics
- · Support for Bluetooth codecs: SBC, AAC, LDAC;
- · Battery life: 10 hours;
Features of the model: isodynamic drivers, Tesla magnetic system, head position tracking and localization of the music scene in space, Nx surround sound system from Waves, room emulation technology and 7.1, compatibility with a proprietary application that allows you to set different actions for specific head gestures for games . The latter feature brings gamers very close to the feeling of virtual reality. I have already talked about the advantages of sound localization in a separate review.
Sound
What can you expect from magnetoplanars? Of course, we get neutral and smooth sound with excellent resolution and full control at all frequencies. It also seemed a little brightened to me, but this did not prevent me from enjoying the rich and delicate tonal palette. Of course, the headphones are intended for connoisseurs of good quality; gamers without audiophile tendencies will probably require more drive and fat. On the other hand, Mobius play really beautifully, it can be a completely new experience for the listener. The bass of the headphones is moderately weighty, fast, and punchy. The impact is perfectly localized in space and feels realistic. The middle is honest, moderately detailed, designed as if in pastel colors. Thanks to the wide stage and excellent separation of shots, concert recordings can be listened to with great pleasure. Micronuances are clearly visible, but they do not steal all the attention. High frequencies are linear and clear. They don’t saw or cut, and it was just that the sonority was a little lacking for me, but still there is both length and transparency. In general, Audeze are great.
Difference with over-ear headphones
Many users confuse the full-size version with over-ear headphones, but these are different models: the over-ear version only covers the ear, while large headphones, with their soft and fairly wide ear pads, cover the auricle, isolating it completely from the outside world. There is also a big difference in sound reproduction.
Simple small headphones are equipped with a membrane that moves under the influence of electrical signals from sound-reproducing equipment, resulting in sound. Full-size headphones have large-diameter speakers that provide excellent sound; the principle used here is that the larger the area, the better the low frequencies or bass are reproduced.
In overhead products, high frequencies predominate, and the bass is reproduced much worse. Expensive full-size models are far superior in sound quality even to their analogues, let alone the overhead version. Some of them create the complete illusion of being in the hall where the concert is taking place, you can even hear the sound of individual instruments, and sound effects smoothly flow from one earphone to another, giving the listener special pleasure.
The best over-ear headphones
Denon AH-MM400
pros
- Great sound
- Comfortable fit
- Quality materials
- Design
- Good sound insulation
Minuses
- Volume control
- Lack of cable in the hospital
From 30,000 ₽
Denon AH-MM400 are designed for true music lovers who can appreciate deep, clear sound. The best headphones for your phone in terms of sound quality are distinguished by their original design, advanced sound processing technologies, and high-quality materials. Denon AH-MM400 is easy to use and comfortable.
Beats EP On-Ear
pros
- Build quality and materials
- Appearance
- Good sound insulation
- Clear sound
Minuses
- Pressure on the ears
- No replacement cable
From 5,500 ₽
Beats EP On-Ear are on-ear headphones that boast excellent sound quality. Clear, balanced sound makes Beats EP On-Ear popular among fans of music of various genres. A rich color palette and high-quality materials can satisfy even the most demanding tastes. Headphones can be used both at home and while walking and traveling.
Principle of operation
The full-size version uses dynamic emitters with a moving coil; the operating scheme is quite simple: a magnet is rigidly attached to the device body, which creates a static magnetic field. Medium and high-level models use magnets with a complex alloy: neodymium, iron and boron.
An alternating current along with a modulated sound signal passes through the wire to the earphone; the coil is in a static magnetic field, which changes as the signal passes from the wire. The interaction of the magnetic fields of the magnet and the coil causes it to move, and its movement immediately causes the membrane to vibrate, which we perceive as sound.
For full-size options, membranes are made of mylar, cellulose, today the technology for manufacturing such thin and at the same time very durable products has been improved, and they are made of titanium. The better the membrane material, the better it transmits sound vibrations, and the user enjoys high sound quality.
Characteristics
In the first place is the amplitude-frequency response (AFC) - this parameter is not indicated on the boxes, but this is where the main characteristics of any headphone model begin. Without going into details, this is the dependence of volume on sound frequency, their frequency response takes the frequency characteristics by which many determine the quality of the product, this value also shows the tonal balance. The range boundaries are the decrease in the frequency response at the minimum and maximum.
The range of transmitted frequencies is 20-20 thousand Hz, some manufacturers indicate a wider range, but this is marketing, gentlemen: a person cannot hear higher sounds, this is the lot of animals and dolphins - the intelligent population of the seas. Hearing gets worse with age, but older people hear bass just as well as young people.
Impedance or nominal resistance at the input of the product, many people use this parameter to determine the volume, but this is fundamentally wrong - it is more influenced by sensitivity paired with resistance. Portable headphones have an impedance of up to 100 ohms.
The most tricky criterion is sensitivity, it is usually indicated in relation to the power dB/mW, but it is better to take it from the frequency response in the ratio dB/V. One of the standards says that it is taken at 1 KHz, the other says to measure it in Hz. There is no standard here, so you should not rely 100% on this parameter.
How to choose over-ear headphones?
Over-ear headphones cover the entire ear. Among all types of headphones, they are the heaviest and most voluminous. As with all other devices, there are several parameters that you need to focus on when choosing the right full-size “ears” model for you.
Connection type
Wired: Sound is transmitted through a cable through a 3.5 mm jack (most often). Always ready to go. Always high stability in signal transmission. But they are inferior in mobility to wireless models.
Wireless: connect via Bluetooth to your music source. Requires regular recharging. May be heavier than wired ones. But they provide a much higher degree of mobility.
Speaker type
Open: they allow external noise to pass through, and the sound from them is heard by others. When worn for a long time, the ears and head become less tired, since the flow of sound does not put so much pressure on the ears.
Closed: cut off external sound and can provide more bass. But when worn for a long time, they can cause discomfort.
Impedance
Resistance, or impedance, refers to the nominal or total alternating current resistance at the headphone input. For stationary use or paired with a device that has an amplifier, this parameter will not be so important. However, when paired with a smartphone or low-power player, it is advisable that the headphone impedance be no more than 100 ohms. Otherwise, the headphones will not provide the optimal volume or the desired clarity and brightness.
Amplitude-frequency response (AFC)
The frequency response shows the tonal balance of the headphones, that is, which frequencies in them will be more elevated, and which ones will be flat or lower. Most often, these parameters are not specified by the manufacturer. They help you choose headphones for the styles that you listen to most.
Additional features
In addition, it is worth paying attention to several more factors that can make using headphones more comfortable. These are the material of the ear pads, the presence of a microphone and control buttons, the ability to voice control and rotate the cups. For simple listening to music, these functions may not be essential, but if you plan to play computer games, communicate a lot and stay in touch, these functions can become indispensable.
Criterias of choice
The main factors in this regard:
- The weight of the product - the lighter they are, the longer you can stay in them, although today manufacturers produce a special headband that does not put pressure, and the weight of the product is practically not felt.
- Full-size or overlay option. Experts give preference to the first option, which has the following advantages:
- high quality and sound standard;
unique listening comfort;
- quality of materials;
- comfortable placement of the headband.
- Open or closed type. The closed type is used mainly by professionals, but the second option is loved by music lovers, gamers and users for whom particularly high-quality sound is important.
- Experienced music lovers advise choosing headphones based on sound quality.
- With a wide range of 19-21943Hz and high sensitivity, these are good devices that will give you a lot of fun.
Skeptics complain about the massive design, but products with folding headphones have already been released.
Each consumer makes a choice based on personal preferences, and experts advise before thoughtfully studying a review of the best models or their ratings over the past year.
The best over-ear headphones - top 10 for 2021
Sony MDR-7506
pros
- high strength of materials;
- quality of connecting cord;
- service life more than 5 years;
- low weight;
- compact dimensions, significantly reduced when folded;
- complete sound insulation;
- excellent detail and frequency balance.
Minuses
- Disadvantages: none found.
From 6510 ₽
Average cost 6,510 ₽, full-size closed-type version, impedance 63 Ohm, membrane diameter 40 mm, connection via a 3.5 mm connector (mini Jack), sensitivity 106 dB, folding design. Made in Japan.
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (80 Ohm)
pros
- excellent quality crystal clear sound;
- the bass is so powerful it tickles your eardrums;
- no distortion at high sound power;
- soft velor ear pads;
- the headband does not press;
- spiral-twisted wire of optimal length;
- high reliability and quality of materials.
Minuses
- strong sensitivity to recording quality;
- the cable is not disconnected.
From 11380 ₽
Closed headphones for studios priced from 11.38 thousand rubles, sensitivity 96 dB, isolation 18 dB, resistance 80 Ohm, weight 270 g, headband pressure 3.5 N, twisted cable 3 m, gold-plated stereo connector, there is an adapter for 6 .35 mm. Manufacturer Germany.
Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 Over-Ear (M2 AEi)
pros
- high-quality assembly;
- good materials;
- comfortable ear pads - genuine leather;
- decent sound insulation;
- stylish design;
- The headband fits tightly and does not fidget while moving.
Minuses
- you can hear the wind whistling outside;
- cable quality.
From 13800 ₽
Closed-type headphones with an average cost of 13.8 thousand rubles are equipped with a microphone, impedance 18 Ohms, sensitivity 113 dB, iPhone support, folding design. The length of the detachable cable is only 1.4 m, manual playback control is 3 keys. weight 249 g, 2 year warranty, manufacturer in China.
Focal Listen
pros
- high build quality;
- stunning clarity of sound with detail;
- good design;
- convenient control;
- sensitive microphone.
Minuses
- insufficient equipment;
- small bag for transportation.
From 9990 ₽
>
Over-ear headphones with a microphone at an average price of 9.99 thousand rubles, weight 273 g, dimensions 239x212x111 mm, 32 Ohm, 122 dB/V, cable 1.4 m, manufacturer France.
Technics RP-DJ1210
pros
- balanced sound;
- the design looks expensive and solid;
- high-quality assembly;
- excellent noise insulation;
- high overload capacity.
Minuses
- puts a lot of pressure on the ears.
From 8490 ₽
Headphones with customizable ear pads at an average cost of 8,490 ₽, 3 m twisted cable, 41 mm speakers with sensitivity parameters of 106 dB/mW, frequency 5 Hz-30 kHz, rated power 200 mW, impedance 30 Ohms. Manufacturer: Panasonic, Japan.
The best wired over-ear headphones
Sony MDR-7506
pros
- Great sound
- Good isolation from extraneous noise
- High build quality
- Stylish appearance
- Strength
Minuses
- The ear pads are made of a material that is unpleasant to the touch
From 7000 ₽
Sony MDR-7506 are full-fledged wired headphones that are ideal for listening to music at home and for professional audio work. The diaphragm of their speakers has a large diameter, and the closed acoustic design perfectly protects against extraneous noise. This guarantees high sound quality. The headphones are easy to use. And thanks to the universal folding design, they take up very little space and are easy to store.
Sennheiser PXC 480
pros
- Great sound
- Active Noise Canceling Feature
- Talk through mode
- Ergonomics
- Modern design
Minuses
- Perceptible weight
From 20980 ₽
Thanks to the cable design, made of oxygen-free copper, the sound is transmitted clearly, extraneous noise is completely absent, which allows you to fully enjoy your favorite musical masterpieces. This is facilitated by the active noise reduction system. Talk through or transparent mode allows you to hear external noise without removing your headphones. In addition, Sennheiser PXC 480 are distinguished by high build quality, so they will serve their owner for decades without requiring additional financial investments.
The headphones are easy to use. Lightweight ear pads, the effect of remembering the usual location, create additional comfort. The Sennheiser PXC 480 headphones can be used to listen to music both indoors and outdoors.
Shure SRH1540
pros
- Great smooth sound
- Simple design
- High build quality
- Good sound insulation
- A light weight
- Rich equipment
- Ergonomics
Minuses
- Slight dominance of mid-bass
From 30,000 ₽
SHURE SRH1540 are premium closed-back headphones. Suitable for both home use and for working with recordings as studio headphones. Thanks to the extended frequency range and neodymium drivers, the headphones provide natural sound and excellent stereo effect.
SHURE SRH1540 is very light and comfortable, which allows you to use it for a long time without experiencing fatigue or discomfort.
Top budget over-ear headphones
Philips SHP1900
pros
- the best option for a budget model;
- good build quality and materials;
- fits perfectly on the head;
- do not rub the ears;
- good balance of low and high frequencies;
- durability (bought in 2008).
Minuses
- poor sound insulation.
From 790 ₽
Full-size open-type headphones at an average price of 790 ₽, 32 Ohm, neodymium magnets, sensitivity 98 dB, weight 100 g, warranty up to one year, made under license from Holland in Chinese factories.
Sennheiser HD 201
pros
- unbreakable reliability;
- comfortable to wear;
- the quality of construction is excellent;
- excellent quality plastic;
- good balance of frequencies.
Minuses
- poor sound insulation.
From 1400 ₽
Monitor type dynamic product, average cost 1,400 rubles, 21-18 thousand Hz, up to 24 Ohms, sensitivity 108 dB, harmonic coefficient 0.7%, weight 165 g. Two-way cable connection, made in China.
Fischer Audio Wicked Queen
pros
- clear sound;
- juicy low frequencies without distortion;
- original, effective design;
- quality materials;
- excellent sound insulation;
- My neck doesn't hurt from long use and my ears don't sweat.
Minuses
- I would like the material of the ear pads to be softer.
From 1900 ₽
Closed-type headphones of Russian design cost from 1900 ₽, impedance 40 Ohm, sensitivity 101 dB, membrane diameter 40 mm, mini Jack 3.5 mm connector, wire length 2 m, folding design.
Ritmix RH-510
pros
- decent appearance;
- quality assembly;
- good sound insulation;
- decent sound balancing;
- durable wire, does not get tangled;
- reasonable price for a budget model.
Minuses
- Ears get tired and sweat quickly.
From 1400 ₽
Monitor product, cost on average 1,400 rubles, frequency 14-22 thousand Hz, resistance 32 Ohm, sensitivity 108 Ohm, detachable wire 3 m. Membrane diameter 38 mm, adapter for 6.3 connector included, manufacturer China.
Axelvox HD272
pros
- high-quality sound;
- wide frequency range;
- robust design;
- reliability;
- good price-quality ratio;
- decent sound insulation.
Minuses
- leatherette ear pads.
From 2820 ₽
Model for professionals with an average price of 2,820 ₽, equipment: two cables, adapters for 3.5 and 6.3 mm, cable clamp, impedance 30 Ohm, sensitivity 98 dB/mW, membrane diameter 50 mm, weight 235 g.
No. 6 – SONY WH-CH700N
Price: 12,000 rubles
SONY WH-CH700N is a popular model with top-end characteristics. The main feature of the model is its autonomy - on one charge it can work up to 35 hours.
Throughout this time, the owner will enjoy clear and detailed sound due to the device’s support for AAC, AptX and AptX HD codecs. The noise reduction system here is also well thought out; it is activated by pressing just one button.
SONY WH-CH700N
The headphones come with a USB cable, so you can use a wired connection if you wish. The owner also has convenient buttons that can be used to control the player and volume. The disadvantages include the overly hard ear pads.
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