Sennheiser CX 880i review

We like Sennheiser's CX880i's a lot, with their great sense of verve and drive, but there's also a thin edge there that some might not like Tested at £80

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

The CX880is are incredibly insightful, although there is a hard edge there

Pros

  • +

    Terrific insight and drive, very comfortable, useful remote

Cons

  • -

    Hard edge to the sound

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Of all the headphones we've tested recently, these were the toughest to nail down, and that’s because their greatest asset is also their greatest weakness: precision.

The CX 880is can define the leading edge of a note like nothing else at this price, and that makes for lots of exciting punch and drive.

But that also comes with a balance that edges towards thinness, to make any recording with a hint of brightness sound a bit hard.

And unfortunately, that includes a lot of modern pop.

If you’re the type who listens only to sumptuous recordings, the Sennheisers are unbeatable at the money, offering terrific insight and attack.

They’re very comfortable to wear, too, and we like the new three-button remote. The problem is that for many people, it will make their music sound worse – so though these are clearly very capable, we can’t grant five stars.

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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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