NOCS NS400 Titanium review

Detailed and rhythmic in-ear headphones, but beaten by newer rivals Tested at £80

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

Comfortable, classy and capable but beaten by newer rivals

Pros

  • +

    Detailed and rhythmic

Cons

  • -

    Could be a little crisper

Why you can trust What Hi-Fi? Our expert team reviews products in dedicated test rooms, to help you make the best choice for your budget. Find out more about how we test.

Until recently the NS400s have been five-star performers for us. In terms of look and feel, they hit the nail on the head.

They're not the most expensive but the quality metal casing, comfortable fit and subtle in-line mic and three-button remote make them very desirable.

For dynamics and rhythm, these can't really be faulted. Treble sounds clear and distinct, but never harsh, while there's enough grunt in those low frequencies to deliver pounding basslines with gusto.

However, some rivals – such as the Beyerdynamic DTX 101 iEs and Grado iGis – are a little crisper in their delivery.

The Grados, for example, make the NOCS sound a tad boomy in comparison. Which is why we've dropped them from a five to four-star rating.

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What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.

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