The SoundMagic E11C wired earphones are proof that quality buds don't have to break the bank. At the full price of £50, you really will struggle to find anything better.

But you won't have to pay anything like this to own the five-star, What Hi-Fi? Award winners. That's because they're currently on sale for just £35 at Richer Sounds.

It really is hard to believe SoundMagic has produced something so good for such a low price. And if that sounds good to you, what are you waiting for?

Don't let the budget price fool you – these earbuds deliver solid sound quality.

As our SoundMagic E11C review reads: "Simply, the E11C sound really good. Make sure you choose the right tips for your ears – you should get a snug fit that not only isolates outside noise really well but ensures you hear their full sonic spectrum – and then you’re treated to a well-balanced, entertaining, energetic sound."

A listen to Drake’s God’s Plan highlights that clarity is a strength of these in-ears, while bass notes are delivered with depth and warmth. Whatever track we listen to, though, the E11C deliver life and control.

Build quality is solid, with an updated driver from the previous E10 model as well as a new, silver-plated copper cable. Small, medium and large silicone tips are provided for a snug fit.

As you'd often see on wired headphones from that era, a remote and mic are included on the left cable, which is useful, whether you're listening on a smartphone or a budget portable music player.

The sensitivity rating of 112dB is quite high, so the E11C earbuds can deliver plenty of volume while using less of your device’s power.

If you've long left 3.5mm behind but still want a wired connection, then we have no qualms in recommending the SoundMagic E80D. This newer release is at a similar price and still has the sonic signature of SoundMagic headphones, only with a USB-C termination.

But if you don't mind a 3.5mm connection and are after a pair of budget wired headphones, the SoundMagic E11C are our top recommendation. They have an entertaining, upfront sound, a solid build, and are now only £35 at Richer Sounds.

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Portland-based brand Campfire Audio has announced its latest wired earbuds, the Chimera, and like the hybrid creature of Greek mythology, they certainly have quite a lot going on.

Campfire's flagship in-ear monitors bring together four distinct driver technologies – dynamic, balanced armature, electrostatic and bone conduction – resulting in what the US brand describes as "a listening experience that is both vividly detailed and physically immersive".

Those four driver technologies equate to nine total drivers, with a 10mm glass dynamic driver handling the lower frequencies and a dual-diaphragm balanced armature taking care of the midrange.

Twin high-frequency balanced armatures seek to provide "clarity and articulation", while four electrostatic super-tweeters handle the highest highs with "air and precision". The Chimera even incorporates a bone-conduction driver, allowing for lower frequencies to land with "weight and impact".

Aiming to get the best out of this handsome array of drive units are an embedded pressure valve to regulate airflow behind the dynamic driver, as well as a final-stage tuning damper integrated into each nozzle.

The exterior shell of the Chimera is machined from magnesium and finished with a PVD coating. The faceplate features a carbon fibre-brass construction, wherein layers of brass are folded into carbon fibre and CNC-machined to form a patterned surface that is subtly distinct from unit to unit.

The new wired IEMs also include an ALO Audio Valence-6 cable, featuring four copper conductors alongside twin copper and silver-plated conductors, as well as three types of ear tips – traction silicone, standard silicone and marshmallow foam – in sizes small, medium and large.

According to Ken Ball, Campfire Audio's founder: “Chimera is the most advanced in-ear monitor we’ve developed so far. It reflects a new horizon in the performance of Campfire products and expands on what is possible from compact, portable audio systems. It brings together a range of technologies and engineering techniques to create an experience that truly deepens the listener’s connection to music.”

The Campfire Audio Chimera will be available around June 2026, at a suggested price of £6999 / $7500.

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Headphones brand Grado has announced its new 'Classic Series' of wired headphones, bringing together several of the company’s most recognisable headphone models under the same banner, all united by the addition of Grado's latest 'X2' driver.

Those cans set to get a 'Classic' upgrade include some of our favourite wired headphones from the past few years, including the Award-winning SR325x, the more budget SR80x and premium Grado GS3000x, all five stars. The updated Classic models will replace all of the established 'x' versions currently available.

At the centre of this new Classic Series is Grado’s X2 driver platform, developed to deliver what Grado describes as "improved consistency, control, and refinement" alongside "greater clarity, extension, and balance".

Each model is tuned in relation to its given housing, with Grado promising an "open, dynamic, and engaging presentation" across the line-up without spoiling the exciting, dynamic sound which has become the brand's signature.

The series' cable design has also been updated from developments taken from Grado's premium Signature line, and promises to be lighter, more flexible and more durable.

The new line-up also boasts refined headband designs across the range that promise enhanced comfort and long-term durability, while maintaining that industrial, rough-and-ready aesthetic that makes the Brooklyn-based brand stand out.

The new Classic series consists of updated versions of seven of the company's most recognisable models and will be available from late March. They are as follows:

- Grado Classic GS3000: priced at £1995 / $1995
- Grado Classic GS1000: priced at £1195 / $1195
- Grado Classic RS1: priced at £750 / $750
- Grado Classic Hemp: priced at £495/ $495
- Grado Classic SR325: priced at £350 / $350
- Grado Classic SR80: priced at £175 / $175
- Grado Classic SR60: priced at $125 / £125

Considering the pedigree of Grado's wired headphones, we're curious to find out if the new updates takes some of these five-star cans to greater heights. Here's hoping that X2 driver platform improves on greatness without throwing the baby out with the bathwater.

MORE:

Read our review of the premium Grado GS3000x headphones

These are the best wired headphones we've tesed and rated

Closed-back vs open-back headphones: which is right for you?

The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 now come in a Nike special edition. The Powerbeats Pro 2 – Nike Special Edition come in the fitness brand's radioactive 'Volt' colourway, with the Nike swoosh on one earbud and the beats 'b' logo on the other.

They also come in a black, Volt-speckled charging case with Nike's "Just Do It" motto printed inside the lid.

In terms of sound quality and features, they're identical to the standard Powerbeats Pro 2.

For the uninitiated, the Powerbeats Pro 2 have the same Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode as the AirPods Pro 2, built-in heart rate monitoring that syncs with the Apple Fitness app and Nike Run Club, and up to 45 hours of battery life.

They're rated IPX4 water resistant, and have ear hooks to help them stay put during sports.

To celebrate the launch, Beats and Nike have produced a humorous ad featuring basketball legend and Beats ambassador LeBron James. It goes on a bit too long.

Beats is keen to stress this isn't just a new colour, but a "collision of two brands that define performance, culture, and sports." But it is a new colour.

We haven't reviewed the Powerbeats Pro 2, but the original Powerbeats Pro only scored three stars. Here's hoping the sequel fares better.

Nike has lent its name to headphones before (like 2009's Nike Aero Sport), but not for some time. It has also collaborated with Apple (Beats' owner) on a special edition Apple Watch.

The Powerbeats Pro 2 – Nike Special Edition go on sale on 20th March for the same £250 / $250 / AU$399 as the standard pair.

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A quick look at the What Hi-Fi? Awards over the years will show that Sony excels at making wireless earbuds of various price points.

Our current reigning champion is the Sony WF-C710N, which took home the Award for best wireless earbuds in the £70-£150 range and is a stellar option at full price.

Which is why their current deal price of £69 in the Amazon Spring Deal Days sale makes them an absolute steal.

That's the lowest we've seen the WF-C710N drop so far, and a good £31 off their original testing price.

The WF-C710N are the follow-up to the Sony-C700N, which were themselves Award winners and even previous Product of the Year title holders.

The WF-C710N make a number of meaningful improvements, most notably to battery life and noise cancellation. Including the case, the WF-C710N has an impressive 30 hours of battery life.

This is with active noise-cancelling (ANC) turned on. And speaking of ANC, this is another area where the WF-C710N improve on their predecessors. New Dual Noise Sensor filters extract an extra layer or two of noise, especially in the lower mid and bass frequencies.

The WF-C710N can't quite match Bose rivals for ANC, but the buds are easily the most affordable of the best noise-cancelling earbuds we recommend.

The WF-C710N are a tad bulkier than their predecessors, but they do have a nice, smooth construction with three sizes of silicone eartips to ensure a comfortable fit.

Soundwise, the WF-C710N really excel, with the mid-range buds standing head and shoulders above the competition for this price level.

"Playing Mombasa from the Inception OST, the track immediately makes big bold, powerful strides. There’s a weight, solidity and fullness in the bass which makes the WF-C700N sound lightweight and a little top-heavy. The new model fleshes things out better," our Sony WF-C710N review reads.

"The Sonys deliver the song with a real sense of intensity, and you can feel the drama unfolding – you don’t need to see the movie to get a feeling that something serious is going down."

Bluetooth 5.3 is supported, along with SBC and AAC audio codecs, which are pretty standard at this level. Auto pause and wearer detection are also included, so your music will automatically stop when you remove an earbud. Pretty nifty.

If you're after a midrange pair of buds, you'll struggle to do better – or much cheaper – than the Sony WF-C710N. They're attractive, comfortable earbuds that are also great performers, and are an absolute steal for £69 at Amazon.

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Sony WF-C710N vs WF-C700N: which five-star budget wireless earbuds are the better buy?

Check out our list of the best wireless earbuds

Sony WF-C710N vs WF-C510: which budget Sony model is better?

Brooklyn-based audio brand Grado has added to its its high-end Signature series of open-backed wired headphones with its new Signature S550 cans. The latest premium model joins the three existing members of the line, including the Signature S950 and flagship Signature HP100 SE headphones.

Designed for listeners who desire “warmth, openness, and clarity without fatigue”, the new S550 prioritise a more relaxed presentation while “preserving the speed, detail, and immediacy” Grado has previously exhibited in its five-star SR325x and GS3000x cans.

Central to achieving this desired sonic profile are a set of 50mm S2 dynamic drivers, tuned especially for the cans’ all-wood enclosures.

Those enclosures includes housings crafted entirely from Brazilian walnut, the same wood as found in the premium Signature S950 over-ears. Each housing is made individually, with natural variations in grain ensuring that no two pairs are exactly alike.

Grado also promises that walnut’s natural density contributes to the S550’s fuller, more balanced presentation, all while helping maintain a more consistent acoustic performance over time.

Like the rest of the cans in the series, the S550 employ Grado’s Signature headband assembly whereby a flexible metal support is integrated within the leather headband in order for the fit to be adjusted more smoothly.

The Signature S550 come equipped with a silver detachable cable. Each housing is terminated with a 4-pin balanced mini XLR, while the source end of the cable is equipped with a 3.5mm mini plug; a 6.3mm adapter is included.

The Grado Signature S550 will be available later this month, priced at £995 / $995.

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Check out our Award-winning Grado SR325x review

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Read our guide to the best wired headphones

Here atWhat Hi-Fi?, we endeavour to test every major pair of premium wireless headphones and put them thoroughly through their sonic paces in our listening rooms.

It's well established among our review team that the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 are the most stylish of the bunch, but also have the substance to back up their good looks.

But they're also currently the cheapest of the major premium wireless headphones we recommend right now – especially with another price crash bringing them down to £311 at Amazon.

That's £88 off their test price of £399, and the cheapest we've seen the cans yet.

It's also a fair bit cheaper than their premium rivals – namely the Sony WH-1000XM6, Sennheiser HDB 630 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) – which are currently all stubbornly sticking to £399.

The Px7 S3 are some of the best wireless headphones we have tested.

They are the successors to the Px7 S2e, and Bowers and Wilkins have made some major improvements to the sound, thanks to some design tweaks – namely redesigned 40mm paper drivers furnished with a new chassis, voice coil, magnet and suspension.

"The Px7 S3 really are exceptionally refined and detailed headphones, stunning us with their ability to outstrip their predecessors and even outperform the more expensive Dali IO-8 for textural insight," our Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 review reads.

"These are wireless headphones that dig deep into your music, eschewing a broad or general sonic overview and instead pulling out instrumental timbres with the relentless curiosity and enthusiasm of a bloodhound on the scent of a new lead."

This is a sound performance on level terms with the Sony XM6, and even better than other more expensive rivals such as the Apple AirPods Max and Focal Bathys.

The Px7 S3 are not quite class-leading when it comes to noise-cancelling, but they do a reasonable job of creating a barrier between you and the outside world. A cannily-positioned eight-mic array reduces rumbles, softens chatter and takes the edge off sharp bangs.

Features are also solid, with aptX Lossless and Adaptive Bluetooth support, a 30-hour battery life (with ANC on) and Bluetooth Multipoint.

The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 were already five-star cans at full price, and for £311 at Amazon, they are one of the best value premium headphones on the market right now.

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Read our review of the Dali IO-8

Sony WH-1000XM6 vs Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3: which premium headphones are better?

Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones: which noise-cancelling pair is better?

Sony has developed a habit of producing some of the best wireless earbuds you can buy.

It’s been particularly successful in the budget arena in the last year or two, but its premium flagship models have always consistently pushed the envelope for performance in this hugely competitive category.

This was the case nearly three years ago when Sony launched its flagship WF-1000XM5 wireless earbuds. Fast forward to 2026, and we finally have a new model looking to pick up where that pair left off. Say hello to the WF-1000XM6.

The jump from Gen 5 to Gen 6 sees quite a few changes, and Sony claims improvements in sound, noise-cancelling and call quality.

So, how do they stack up? Are there still legs in the previous generation, or should you jump straight to the new model? We’ve spent hours comparing the two, so you don’t have to…

Sony WF-1000XM6 vs WF-1000XM5: price

Pricing for the Sony WF-1000XM6 is £250 / $330 / AU$500. This actually makes them a little cheaper for UK buyers compared with the older WF-1000XM5 but more expensive if you live in the US or Australia.

The previous generation cost £259 / $299 / AU$419 at launch, but given their age, you can pick them up with a solid discount, which we think is only going to get better over time, thanks to the introduction of the new model.

I certainly wouldn’t be expecting any WF-1000XM6 deals in the first couple of months following their launch.

** Winner: Sony WF-1000XM5 **

Sony WF-1000XM6 vs WF-1000XM5: design & comfort

The first thing you’ll notice before you get any of the buds out is that the charging cases look different. The WF-1000XM6 case is slightly taller and deeper than that of the XM5. The XM5 case remains slightly wider, but it’s just not as bulky. Both feel pretty robust if a little plasticky.

Flip open both tops, and you’ll see Sony has changed both the look and the feel of the earbuds in the jump from fifth to sixth generation.

While the WF-1000XM5 have a teardrop design, the WF-1000XM6 appear slightly more rectangular and boxy. They are 11 per cent slimmer than the previous model, which you can see when you hold both in profile, but they also appear slightly deeper and wider.

The redesign is for a few reasons. Firstly, Sony has included additional microphones in WF-1000XM6 to help with call quality and noise cancelling, so each bud now includes four mics as opposed to three per bud on the WF-1000XM5.

Secondly, the new earbud design accommodates Sony’s new ventilation structure (highlighted by rows of perforations under the bottom edge of each earbud), which aids the flow of air within each enclosure and also helps reduce any internal noise which can be triggered by things like chewing or walking.

Thirdly, the new design is supposed be more practical and fit your ear better to aid with comfort.

The 8.4mm driver Sony uses in the WF-1000XM5 returns for WF-1000XM6, but there have also been some design changes, which Sony claims improve performance. For example, the driver now boasts a new ‘soft edge’ which aids bass performance. It works with a lightweight, rigid dome for improved highs.

Also, the WF-1000XM6 earbuds don’t have the glossy finish of the XM5. Sony has gone for a more matte finish in both the black and platinum silver colourways.

The latter has a textured surface, which is down to the addition of “added metal flakes and glass beads”. The black pair are slightly smoother to the touch in comparison.

Sony has decided to stick with the same ear-tip material and size options it provided with the XM5 for the XM6. Now, we’re slightly disappointed that Sony hasn’t seen fit to add an extra-large set of ear-tips to the four sizes it already offers (extra small, small, medium and large), as some of our reviewers struggled to get the fit right out of the box with XM6, which was a similar issue we encountered with their predecessors.

** Winner: Draw **

Sony WF-1000XM6 vs WF-1000XM5: features

Unsurprisingly, both pairs of Sony earbuds share a lot of the same features, but there have been one or two significant changes.

We’ve already mentioned the mic count has gone up from three per bud to four, but another significant change is that the new generation of Sony earbuds comes with a new generation of HD Noise Cancelling processor – QN3e.

Sony claims this is three times faster than the QN2e processor found in the WF-1000XM5 and also claims it helps deliver 25 per cent better noise cancelling than the previous generation earbuds.

Both pairs share Sony’s integrated processor V2, but the version in the WF-1000XM6 now boasts 32-bit processing power compared to 24-bit on the old model.

The XM6 also get Sony’s Adaptive NC Optimiser, which introduces a new algorithm for the earbuds which alters the ANC from the buds in real time so they can react to how they're worn and the noise from your surroundings. Previously, the XM5 just had Sony’s Auto NC Optimiser.

Sony’s DSEE Extreme sound engine makes a return and is there to help boost the audio from low-quality digital files.

Both pairs are hi-res audio certified, boast LDAC, SBC and AAC codec support (neither are compatible with aptX), offer Bluetooth Multipoint for two devices, spatial audio and both are IPX4 rated.

Also crossing over from XM5 is a ten-band graphic equaliser for those who want to customise their own sound from the Sonys, and a more user-friendly Find Your Equaliser function, which helps guide you to your favourite flavour.

** Winner: Draw **

Sony WF-1000XM6 vs WF-1000XM5: battery life

If you were hoping for or expecting a small bump in battery life for the WF-1000XM6 over their predecessors, then you’ll be disappointed.

All that extra processing power required for the XM6 means Sony has been unable to improve on the eight hours of battery life you get in the WF-1000XM5, but that should be enough for most people most of the time.

You also get the same total battery life when you throw in the wireless recharging case, i.e. 24 hours.

** Winner: Draw **

Sony WF-1000XM6 vs WF-1000XM5: ANC & call quality

Sony claims there are improvements in both of these areas following the launch of the XM6, and this proves to be the case during testing in real-life scenarios.

The noise-cancelling effect is a bit more intense when you make the jump to the WF-100XM6, but it never feels uncomfortable.

It feels natural, and the WF-1000XM6 do a great job of subduing sound across the spectrum. It’s even more notable in the mids and highs, where it feels like the new model seems able to extract a bit more mid- and high-frequency information. It feels like they’re throwing a slightly thicker blanket of ANC over your environment.

The difference in call quality between the two is closer, but we still found a small difference between the two and a slight improvement, with the WF-1000XM6 sounding a tiny bit clearer compared with the WF-1000XM5. Both pairs use AI learning and include a bone conductor sensor to help pick up your voice.

Speaking of which, your voice sounds expressive and detailed using either pair and both models do a great job of isolating your voice, picking it out from background noise and also subduing wind noise too.

** Winner: Sony WF-1000XM6 **

Sony WF-1000XM6 vs WF-1000XM5: sound quality

We’ll cut straight to it. The WF-1000XM6 are a clear improvement over their predecessors – and you can tell straight out of the box.

While the XM5 still sound clear and detailed and they're still a punch-sounding and dynamic pair of earbuds, the new model makes them sound lean, lightweight and, dare we say, lacking tonal balance.

By contrast, the WF-1000XM6 offer detail and insight, but also ooze natural warmth. It's a character missing from their predecessors, and its injection gives the XM6 huge appeal, whatever your musical taste.

The result is a sound that is not only more expressive and dynamic but one that sounds more natural and believable, too.

They uncover impressive levels of detail, but they never sound over-analytical and allow the emotional feeling of a track or vocal to shine through.

The WF-1000XM6 are excellent across the frequency range, delivering crisp highs all the way down to tightly controlled and textured lows – the newer Sonys have a grasp of bass notes and deliver layers of texture which the old model can’t quite replicate.

In our Sony WF-1000xM6 review, we said, "the Sonys exhibit all the bass power and weight you could ask for, but it’s the way the notes are controlled and defined which really sets the Sonys apart from some of their rivals."

We summed it all up by saying, "Everything that you expect to be present in a pair of flagship wireless earbuds is there (with XM6): a fantastic sense of timing, an expressive midrange, weighty yet well-defined bass and crisp, nicely controlled highs. The Sonys cover all the bases and then some."

The XM5 are still good earbuds, but it's impressive how much more capable the latest model sounds.

** Winner: Sony WF-1000XM6 **

Sony WF-1000XM6 vs WF-1000XM5: verdict

You always wonder when a five-star favourite is replaced by a new iteration whether it will be able to build on what’s come before.

But that’s exactly what Sony has managed to do with the jump from the WF-1000XM5 to the WF-1000XM6.

It is a little disappointing that the new model still hasn’t perfected the feel and fit of the ear-tips Sony uses, but you can’t argue with the all-round ability of the WF-1000XM6 and the step up that you can hear in both noise-cancelling and sound quality.

We’d still consider the WF-1000XM5 to be solid performers, especially given the discounts you can find online right now, but the WF-1000XM6 is a new and improved model, which you can't ignore if you want the best sound quality at this level.

MORE:

Read our full Sony WF-1000XM6 review

And our full Sony WF-1000XM5 review

Sony WF-1000XM6 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen): which should you buy?

See our pick of the best wireless earbuds for all budgets

US audio brand Audeze has announced the launch of its flagship planar magnetic headphones, the open-back LCD-5s.

The new high-end cans pack the same 'SLAM' (Symmetric Linear Acoustic Modulator) acoustic technology as found in Audeze's LCD-S20 planar magnetic cans from last year, designed to offer "powerful, lifelike bass response and even more accurate midrange tuning".

According to Audeze, 'SLAM' works by better controlling the air pressure between the headphones' diaphragm and earcup, with the diaphragm moving in a more linear and controlled manner for greater precision at the lower end.

The new LCD-5s are bolstered by a host of Audeze's own acoustic technologies, including a specially designed diaphragm, magnet arrays and 'Fazor' phase management, coming together to deliver what the brand describes as "exceptional clarity, ultra-low distortion, and precise imaging".

The open headphones are certainly on the large size. They weight 475g, but the use combination of lightweight carbon fibre and magnesium in the chassis aims to keep things comfortable while exuding high quality. There are also updated earpads that aim to reduce pressure on your ears for long listening sessions.

The LCD-5s deploy a 4-pin XLR balanced cable as standard, while single-ended 6.3mm and 3.5mm adapters are also provided.

According to Sankar Thaigasaudram, Audeze's CEO: “With LCD-5s, we’ve refined every aspect of the listening experience—from driver performance to comfort and industrial design—to deliver the most lifelike and emotionally engaging planar magnetic headphone we’ve ever created".

The Audeze LCD-5s are available now, priced at $4500. That puts them in esteemed company, with the highly talented Yamaha YH-5000SE clocking in at around £4799 / $5000.

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Did you ever see the Sennheiser HD414 from the 1960s? Famed for their bright yellow foam earpads and funky, skeletal aesthetic, they were a colossal success for Sennheiser, shipping north of 10 million units following their launch in 1968.

It's those legendary icons which FiiO's new EH11 wireless headphones put us in mind of, with their lightweight frame and rounded on-ear design, kitted out with modern engineering and Bluetooth capabilities, harking back to a funkier retro past.

The EH11 feature a "semi-open" configuration, housing ventilation ports and damping filters to reduce the pressure and closed-in feel of more typical on-ear headphones, all while controlling airflow to minimise the excessive sound leakage associated with fully open models.

The EH11 deploy a set of 40mm long-throw dynamic drivers fitted with a high-damping composite diaphragm, designed to elicit "controlled, energetic low frequencies" alongside a "sharp, layered presentation". Thanks to their hybrid design, according to FiiO, vocals sound more natural, with a wider, more transparent overall soundstage.

As a modern pair of Bluetooth on-ears, the funky FiiOs support the hi-res LDAC codec, meaning they should be capable of allowing you to streaming audio up to 32-bit/96kHz at up to 990kbps when paired with a compatible source device.

A built-in microphone allows for hands-free easy calls on the go, while battery life clocks in at 30 hours of playback on a single charge. The EH11 are supported by the FiiO Control App, a base from which you can access a choice of sound profiles, a custom equaliser and low-latency gaming modes.

Replaceable ear pads in two colour sets are also included.

The FiiO EH11 are available now in a choice of transparent, off-white, cyan, burgundy or transparent black colourways, priced £33 / $30 / €33.

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Meze Audio, the brand responsible for such headphones as the 99 Classics and the high-end Empyrean II, is back with a brand new pair of wired over-ear cans. The new Meze Audio Strada vow to set "a new benchmark in closed-back headphones" with a sound that "blends tonal precision with immersive musical intimacy".

To do so, the new over-ears house a set of newly-designed 50mm dynamic drivers which aim to deliver a controlled, precise sound defined by a deep, well-defined bass signature alongside a "neutral, transparent midrange" and a smooth, detailed treble.

Those newly designed drivers are constructed using a carbon fibre-reinforced cellulose composite dome, with a surrounding torus made using a polymer coated with beryllium for enhanced stiffness, durability and transient response.

Further, a copper-zinc alloy stabiliser surrounds the driver membrane, absorbing micro-vibrations with the aim of significantly reducing unwanted distortion.

The replaceable earpads are mounted magnetically so that they can be swapped in and out more easily, while the cans' Macassar hardwood ebony ear cups are designed to be both visually striking and unique across each pair.

Comfort is at the forefront of the Stradas' design, with both the crafted frame and driver system crafted to be as lightweight as possible in a bid to reduce listener fatigue. The padded headband, meanwhile, features a cross pattern design to distribute pressure more evenly and reduce heat build-up during longer listening sessions.

The Strada come with a choice of two cables – one 1.8m Kevlar with a 3.5mm jack and one 1.8m Kevlar with a 4.4mm jack – as well as a 6.3mm jack adapter and a hard carry case and leather cable pouch.

The Meze Audio Strada over-ears are available now, priced at £799 / $799.

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Best headphones – every type tried and tested

Even outside hi-fi circles, the release of a new AirPods Pro is a pretty monumental occasion.

Which is why we’re so glad the latest model lives up to the hype: we awarded the buds fives stars only days ago, in our AirPods Pro 3 review.

Almost as if to celebrate, you can get a nice little saving right now. The AirPods Pro 3 are £199 at AO.com, a discount of £20 from the price when we tested them.

Given how few and far between AirPod deals are, this is definitely worth considering!

We were big fans of the previous Apple AirPod Pro generations, but we think this third iteration is the best to date on all fronts.

This includes active noise cancellation (ANC) which has been drastically improved by design changes that include ultra-low-noise microphones and new foam-infused eartips. On an aircraft, we found that engine noises, chatter and other environmental noises were noticeably quieter, and always in a natural, airy way that never feels overbearing.

The mic is also fantastic, offering clear, detailed call quality without sounding over-processed or harsh.

Most importantly, however, the AirPods Pro 3 deliver in terms of audio quality, thanks to a revamped ‘multiport acoustic architecture’ that promises more precise airflow control to deliver greater bass and a wider soundstage.

“Some of us on the review team have been using the AirPods Pro 2 for about three years regularly, and we are greeted with a continuation of that well-balanced presentation that knits music together cohesively and delivers voices with clarity and sweetness,” our Apple AirPods Pro 3 review reads.

“It only takes a few minutes of comparisons to discover that the AirPods Pro 3 take a sonic step forward in every way, too. The Pro 3 sound clearer and more detailed; they are more spacious-sounding and more dynamic, too.”

As usual, the AirPods Pro 3 are smooth and easy to use, with the intuitive, snappy Apple experience still second to none. New features also include a heart-rate sensor and an improved IP57 water resistance.

Many out there won't need any convincing to get the latest AirPods Pro model, but we are happy to recommend them to anyone on the fence. The earbuds are a step forward from the Pro 2 in every way, and are now just a little bit cheaper at £199 courtesy of AO.com.

MORE:

Read our review of the Technics EAH-AZ100

Also consider the Sony WF-1000XM5

Best wireless earbuds: top pairs tested by our reviewers

Austrian Audio has introduced its latest pair of wired over-ears, The Arranger. Designed to bridge the gap between the brand's more affordable Hi-X series and its flagship Composer reference cans, the open-backed newbies are designed to bring "high-end engineering to the more accessible price point".

At the core of the new cans is a freshly developed 44mm dynamic driver which uses a diamond-like carbon (DLC) coated diaphragm for greater rigidity and control, paired with a proprietary ring magnet system in pursuit of a fast transient response, low distortion and excellent bass extension.

That newly developed driver, in combination with The Arrangers' open-back design, delivers what Austrian Audio describes as a "natural, spacious presentation with clear spatial placement".

The new over-ears are fitted with suede leatherette ear pads which, in tandem with a lightweight metal frame, promise enduring all-day comfort. The cans also fold away for greater convenience when being stored or taken on your travels, while a reasonably modest weight of just 310 grams aims to reduce wearer fatigue during extended listening sessions.

The Arrangers' ear pads and headband are user-replaceable, so parts that wear out can be more easily exchanged if you're keen to extend their lifespan. The new headphones use a 4-pin symmetrical socket with a 3.5mm connector and an included 3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter.

The Austrian Audio Arranger will be available from February 2026, priced at £899 / €999 / $1099.

We've been impressed with both Austrian Audio's more affordable Hi-X range (including the Hi-X20 and Hi-X15) and its high-end reference cans, so a pair of headphones that seek to bridge the gap between these different ends of the cost spectrum sounds like an enticing prospect.

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Speaker stands are far more important than you might think

Kick off your 2026 in style with our list of the 7 best test tracks getting us through January

Discover the best wired headphones we've tested

Fervently searching the January sales for top-tier wireless buds? It might be time to invest in the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. That is if you fancy saving yourself over £100.

For just £199 at Amazon, these five-star buds are at their almost lowest-ever price – they came down to £189 during the Amazon's Big Deal Days last year.

One (very) tiny caveat: while the Black model is at this discount price, you'll have to part ways with an extra 95p if you want them in Diamond, Lunar Blue, or White.

The QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds were one of our top picks among the best wireless earbuds, only bested more recently by the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) – but those high-end buds will cost you £100 more.

So, if you're working on a budget but still want buds that nail comfort, noise-cancelling and sound quality, the OG Bose buds are a lovely pick.

And this discount price tag is seriously competitive among their biggest rivals. The Sony WF-1000XM5 and Apple AirPods Pro 2 will each cost you a little more.

But let's stop making comparisons and focus on what the OG QuietComfort Ultra's have to offer, starting with arguably their most impressive feature: noise-cancelling.

These impressive buds are still one of the class-leaders in this department. Powered by Bose's CustomTune calibration tech, they are able to take the noisiest of environments and reduce their impact quite dramatically.

Aware mode takes things one step further, balancing out the noise of your music and your environment when you need to hear a bit of both. There are a few other customisable presets built in, too.

And they sound good, too. Our expert testers say in our review: “If you were expecting the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds to sound identical to the model they replace you might be surprised.

“Yes, Bose has kept the same tonal characteristics which is great in terms of consistency. There’s a familiar richness and fullness to the sound, but the new buds have a bit more of a skip in their step.”

Other features include Bluetooth 5.3, six hours of battery life (boosted to 24 hours with the charging case), and the integration of Bose Immersive Audio, the company's spatial audio tech that allows the audio to move with you. Be aware though, your battery life will take a hit when this is enabled.

If you're in the market for some five-star buds with excellent noise-cancelling and that are seriously comfy to wear, this offer of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds at just £199 at Amazon is an excellent deal.

MORE:

Read our full Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds review

The best wireless earbuds: top pairs tested by our reviewers

And check out the best sports and workout headphones: top earbuds for keeping active

Campfire Audio has launched a new ‘Classic Green’ standard edition model of its Andromeda wired earbuds as part of its 10th anniversary celebrations.

This new ‘standard’ version joins the Black and Gold Limited Editions that launched last year and is set to become Campfire’s flagship model.

Significantly, the new ‘Classic Green’ Andromeda 10 will be available at a lower price than the limited edition models, coming in at £1699 / $1799 instead of £2299 / $2499.

With such a disparity in price, you could be fooled into thinking Campfire has had to make significant sacrifices for the new model, but according to the manufacturer, it has maintained the “same internal architecture and acoustic performance”.

The only differences between the standard and limited editions are the housing and two-pin cables they are respectively supplied with.

The ‘Classic Green’ Andromeda 10 standard edition earbuds are housed in anodised aluminium, which Campfire Audio says is lighter than the stainless steel housing found on the limited edition models.

The standard version are also supplied with the brand’s ‘Time Link’ cable – a silver-plated, pure copper modular cable with 3.5mm, 4.4mm and USB-C DAC connections, while the limited edition’s custom cable features a 4.4mm headphone jack containing gold-plated conductors.

The Andromeda 10 features 10 custom-balanced armatures (four low, four mid, and two high), while a new ‘NEMC’ (non-enclosed midrange chamber) and the brand’s proprietary ‘TAEC’ (tuned acoustic expansion chamber) are on board.

According to Campfire Audio, “together, these elements deliver enhanced resolution, greater dynamic range, and a refined sense of space while maintaining the musical balance that made Andromeda a benchmark in the category”.

Stocks are running low on the Black and Gold Limited Editions, but the new Campfire Audio Andromeda 10 wired earbuds in ‘Classic Green’ will be available to buy later this month.

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Check out our list of the best in-ear headphones

New leaks suggest Sony XM6 wireless earbuds are just weeks away

Nuts! The world's smallest noise cancelling earbuds aren't much bigger than a peanut

No doubt you're still trying to get your head around being thrust into a new year, so I won't waste your time. Right now, the five-star Award-winning Grado SR80x are discounted to just £99 at Peter Tyson and Richer Sounds.

That's an impressive £31 discount on the open-back headphones that are now as affordable as they are entertaining. We've continually praised them for their punchy sound, class-leading insight and comfortable fit at this level.

Tempted? I'm not surprised.

Best Grado wired headphones deal

You can't really miss with the Grado SR80x, especially at this deal price that brings these open-back wired headphones under £100. The outstanding SR80x are well worth a place on your shortlist if your main priorities are sound, sound and sound.

Sure, the aesthetics won't be for everyone. You might not like their industrial look, or their on-ear design, or the fact that, as an open pair of cans, they leak sound like a sieve. That's all perfectly understandable, but if you're looking for a pair of headphones to enjoy at home rather than on your commute, then these Grados are worth considering.

With these wired Grados, it's all about sound. If entertainment and musicality are what you seek, we can't think of another open-back rival that can better the SR80x at this price.

As we said in our review: "Everything we like about their (SR80) predecessors – their nimble-footedness, expressive, rolling dynamics, and insight across well-defined frequencies – has been inherited, and the punch and panache that have made the Prestige models such born entertainers are very much also part of the SR80x’s sonic signature."

You've even got a choice of retailers for this £31 off deal. Check them out at Peter Tyson or Richer Sounds.

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Check out the best headphones money can buy

Pick up a bargain with the best headphones deals

6 test tracks we've been playing in the What Hi-Fi? listening rooms this month

Anker claims its latest pair of premium wireless earbuds, the Soundcore AeroFit 2 Pro, are the first-ever “dual-form” earbuds that enable both open-ear listening and active noise cancellation in one design.

Launched at CES 2026, the AeroFit 2 Pro feature five selectable ear hook positions, with levels 1 and 2 typically being for open-ear listening and levels 4 and 5 for ANC. Level 3 is a neutral position that maintains either an open-ear or ANC form, depending on what has been selected.

The ANC utilises an adaptive algorithm that runs 380,000 checks per second and fine-tunes 180 times a minute to ensure “immediate, reliable noise cancellation”.

These earbuds are equipped with 1.18cm composite drivers, and feature spatial audio with dynamic head-tracking.

An IP55 rating means they offer limited protection against dust and water, while the battery lasts up to 7 hours on a single charge, or up to 34 hours in total with the charging case.

These button-controlled earbuds also feature Bluetooth 6.1 with multipoint connection for seamless switching between two connected devices.

The Soundcore AeroFit 2 Pro come in a choice of four finishes: matte black, gloss white, gloss blue or matte purple. These wireless earbuds will be available to purchase online from the 6th January and are priced at £180 / $180.

It’s worth noting that other brands, such as Apple’s AirPods 4 with ANC, also combine an ‘open’ earbuds design with active noise-cancelling, although the design differs from Soundcore’s model.

Anker has also added a new Bluetooth portable speaker to its Soundcore audio range, the Boom Go 3i.

This palm-sized portable speaker offers 15W of power and up to 22 hours of battery life. That’s certainly beefier than the similarly tiny JBL Go 4 speaker, which offers 4.2W and 7 hours for £40 / $50, but received five stars for its cohesive, engaging sound.

The Boom Go 3i is also IP68 rated, meaning it's fully protected against dust and can withstand rain and a brief dunk in water.

Suitable for outdoor use, the Boom Go 3i also features a little strap, so it can be attached to a coat or bag.

This portable speaker is set for launch in the first quarter of 2026. It will be available in four finishes (with final colours to be confirmed) and will cost £60 / $80.

MORE:

Check out our list of the best wireless earbuds

And our list of the best Bluetooth speakers

CES 2026 Live: we’ve got the inside scoop on new OLED TVs, Dolby Atmos treats and more

Another year has been and gone with startling speed, and countless AV products have passed through our test room. That means we have had to put them through their paces with a whole host of different test discs, from action-packed blockbusters to slower indie releases.

We've been documenting the discs that have been used the most each month through our 'Now Showing' column, but which ones stuck out the most to our team of experts as the best ones of the year?

Below you will find the most popular discs in our test room in 2025. Some have featured in previous columns and return in blazing glory, while others have been discovered later on and will be brought out again and again in 2026.

Civil War

While in some ways I’m a little bored with writing about Alex Garland’s Civil War, not to do so in an end of year wrap-up would be sacrilege, given how much we’ve used it for testing in 2025.

This relatively little-known move from last year is highly unusual in its presentation. While the subject matter and events are exceptionally gritty, concerning as they do a bloody modern-day civil war in the US, the picture is beautifully crisp, bright and vibrant.

It looks fabulous from a good TV or projector, then, but it’s also packed with challenging scenes, from the super high-contrast forest fire to the nighttime attack on Washington DC and the daylight mustering of the Western Forces.

This is a movie that tests every aspect of your display device’s performance – and it’s great for audio, too, with that Washington DC scene in particular exercising your sound system’s ability to fill your room with the sounds of battle, place effects accurately within the soundstage, and ensure voices are intelligible throughout.

On top of all of that, the movie itself is superb, never becoming boring even on the hundredth watch. No wonder it’s become such a firm fixture in our testing process.

Words by Tom Parsons

Buy Civil War on 4K Blu-ray at Amazon

Stream Civil War on Apple TV

28 Years Later

2025 was a great year for horror fans, such as myself. For starters, we had Weapons, one of the creepiest movies I’ve seen in quite some time, complete with a haunted house, evil old lady and possessed kids; it’s a dark, thrilling ride from start to finish. Then we had the thoughtful, emotive remake of Frankenstein from Guillermo del Toro, which is a visual feast from start to finish. But the one that sticks in my mind most is 28 Years Later.

Why? Well, for starters, it's a proper sequel to 28 Days Later, one of the most iconic zombie movies of its time that helped launch the career of lead man Cillian Murphy and put Danny Boyle on the map, both for his decision to shoot purely digitally and for his excellent cinematography. So it’s automatically got a place saved for it in my memory palace.

But second, and more importantly, it’s a fantastic film full of heart-stopping action sequences, tense stand-offs with the infected and an emotional narrative that had me all but in tears during one sequence with Ralph Fiennes towards the end of the film. Its use of surround sound is also one of the best I’ve seen this year, with you hearing and feeling the infected lurking in the shadows as much as you see them. The end result is a horror that has you constantly feeling on edge. There’s one scene, in particular, where a father and his son race across a river, fleeing from an infected hot on their heels that still sticks in my mind.

And that’s why it’s the highlight of 2025 for me and one of the few films from this year I continue to revisit, even when I’m not testing home cinema hardware. If you haven’t already, I’d strongly recommend giving it a watch.

Words by Alastair Stevenson

Buy 28 Years Later on 4K Blu-ray at HMV

Stream 28 Years Later on Apple TV

Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery

Even though it was only released at the tail end of the year, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery has quickly proved itself to be a worthy entry to the What Hi-Fi? disc rotation.

We have used both of the previous entries, Knives Out and Glass Onion, for picture and sound testing before so it's great to see the tradition continuing.

Like all good mysteries, the film kicks things off with a mysterious death. The murder in question is that of Josh Brolin's cantankerous priest, Monsignor Wickes, who is mysteriously slain in an empty church storage room during a service. All the signs point to young priest Jud, played by Josh O'Connor, but there is more to the story than meets the eye and Wickes' congregation know more than they are letting on.

Where the first Knives Out is set in the peak of autumn and the second takes place in dazzling sun, this film takes us to the depths of winter. Director Rian Johnson gives each frame an air of wintry gloom and suspense that lends the film a gothic overall feel.

It properly challenges a system's picture performance with its abundance of dark detail during the scenes shot in the church's beautiful interior. Much like Conclave, another great test disc, the use of religious garb also gives a system a run for its money with the textured red ceremonial robes set against the cold white church stone.

Stream Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery on Netflix

A Complete Unknown

The music biopic genre might be a tad oversaturated these days, but A Complete Unknown at least skips the lifetime overview for a focused look at the enigmatic Bob Dylan’s rise and controversial move to electric. While it could’ve perhaps gone further, it certainly doesn’t try to sugarcoat Bob’s early years, showing him strain relationships with long-term friends, lovers and fans alike as he makes a career move that in many ways will define him and the era.

It’s bolstered by a trio of Oscar-nominated performances by Timothée Chalamet, Edward Norton and Monica Barbaro, all of whom do their own singing. And it’s during some of these musical performances that the film really comes alive – and provides a perfect opportunity to show off your sound system. The recreations of the famous Newport Folk Festival are, of course, ideal demo scenes, showing impressive directionality as the camera moves through the crowds, allowing you to hear the claps, cheers and eventually, boos from every angle.

Musical films can sometimes be forgotten but are excellent choices for sound testing, and A Complete Unknown was one of the best of the year.

Words by Daniel Furn

Buy A Complete Unknown on 4K Blu-ray at Amazon

Stream A Complete Unknown on Apple TV

Thunderbolts*

Being a fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) isn't as easy as it used to be. More often than not, I go to the cinema with a knot in my stomach, unsure of whether I'm about to be treated to a top-notch superhero flick in line with early entries in the franchise, or have to endure a dud akin to the likes of Thor: Love and Thunder or Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania.

Thankfully, Thunderbolts* is a case in which the former applies, which wasn't really what I was expecting. Marvel has taken a group of B-list anti-heroes from some of its middling offerings, such as Ant-Man and The Wasp and Falcon and The Winter Soldier (it's just occurred to me that those titles sound very similar), and mashed them together to make a team of morally dubious bounty hunters.

With that in mind, my expectations were fairly reserved. Thankfully, I was pleasantly surprised by this film in nearly every aspect. Seriously, it's fun, exciting, action-packed and even unexpectedly emotional. This film has enough heart to give the Guardians of the Galaxy a run for their money at times, and it's the most engaged I've been in the MCU in what feels like years.

It also happens to look and sound fantastic, which is why I've relied on it for a lot of audio testing this year. The soundtrack provided by Son Lux (who also scored Everything, Everywhere, All at Once) is superb, with unique percussion segments and triumphant crescendos providing unique dynamic shifts.

It's also one of the only recent Marvel movies that doesn't look totally artificial. The comic book brand (which is owned by Disney) made a big deal of shooting on location and hiring the cinematographer of the visually striking A24 flick The Green Knight, Andrew Droz Palermo, to make this film look good, and I can see why.

If you need to have your faith in Marvel restored, or you just want an action-packed blockbuster that delivers on being fun and emotional while also looking and sounding great, then you should certainly give Thunderbolts* a try.

Words by Lewis Empson

Buy Thunderbolts* on 4K Blu-ray at Amazon

Stream Thunderbolts* on Disney Plus

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Check out our picks for the best streaming services for movies and TV

As well as the best 4K Blu-ray players

And the best OLED TVs

Japanese audio brand Final has unveiled its latest pair of wireless earbuds, the ZE300. Thanks to their budget price tag, noise-cancelling capabilities and a newly tuned acoustic structure, could these be the buds to challenge the mighty Sony WF-C510, and even the Sony WF-C710N, for affordable wireless supremacy?

That newly tuned acoustic structure aims to deliver a "soft, detailed and natural sound" without harshness, with Final promising its new buds "capture vocal nuance, instrumental texture and environmental detail" without causing listener fatigue.

The buds sport "airflow ports" to release pressure inside the ear, and feature a noise-suppressing mic for clear voice calls.

Unlike their potential Sony WF-C510 rivals, Final's affordable buds offer noise-cancelling powered by the brand's proprietary algorithm, with listeners offered a choice of full ANC alongside a transparent 'Ambient Mode' for when you want to be aware of your surroundings.

Battery life clocks in at 21.5 hours in total, with 5.5 hours offered from the earbuds on a single charge and a further 16.5 hours granted by the charging case.

Billed as the smallest earbuds Final has ever made and weighing in at just 4g per bud, the ZE300 aim to provide a secure, unobtrusive fit that's built for everyday comfort.

The standard AAC and SBC Bluetooth codecs are supported, which is standard at this level of the market. An IPX4 water resistance rating, meanwhile, means the ZE300 should be able to handle sweaty workouts or splashes of rain and water without too much fuss.

The Final ZE300 will be available from 12th December in three "powder-coated" finishes – grey, greige or black – for £40 / $50 / €45, the same sort of price as the five-star WF-C510 (currently £38 / $50), which is one of the best cheap wireless earbuds we've tested.

We found a lot to like with the flagship Final ZE8000 MK2, so here's hoping Final can translate much of that pedigree to a far more affordable side of the market.

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Sennheiser HDB 630 vs Sony WH-1000XM6: which wireless headphones should you buy?

Take a look at the best wireless earbuds: quality in-ears for every budget

And check out the best budget wireless earbuds: top affordable pairs tested by our experts

FiiO's latest portable CD player is a real step on from its predecessor. Because the DM15 R2R not only has way more features, it has a cool transparent look too, so you can see the compact disc spinning as it plays.

But those features are the real selling point. It plays CDs, naturally, but it can also act as a DAC and headphone amplifier for your smartphone or laptop-based listening, while Bluetooth streaming is on the menu. It can even rip CDs.

It has more headphone amplification power than the older DM13 model, too. Single-ended outputs now deliver 310mW + 310mW, while its balanced outputs rise to 1150mW + 1150mW. That gives it more capacity to drive more demanding headphones.

Inside is FiiO's custom R2R DAC, which is a fully differential, four-channel 24-bit resistor-array converter built from 192 precision thin-film resistors (48 per channel).

The hi-res DAC supports hi-res files up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and native DSD256, while the Bluetooth transmitter (powered by a Qualcomm QCC3095 chip) supports aptX, aptX HD and SBC as well as aptX Adaptive. It can beam audio wirelessly from both CD and USB inputs.

Three bass modes and eight EQ presets give you 24 sound profiles, including a 'Retro' one for what FiiO calls "a rich, classic analog flavour". While listening to a disc, you can rip tracks in WAV format to PC or Mac.

The battery lasts seven hours, or you can plug it into the mains using USB-C. There is also a USB-C input and a combined optical/coaxial digital input.

The mechanical controls and traditional volume knob continue the throwback feel, and the FiiO DM15 R2R comes in four finishes: Silver, Red, Black and White (the latter two will be released in late December). Price? It's yours for £250 / $249 (around AU$500).

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Best CD players: budget to premium options tested by experts

Read our Astell & Kern A&norma SR35 review

I spent a week with FiiO’s retro cassette deck and Discman to test their modern-day merits

If you're looking for a pair of the best wireless earbuds, then we'd always recommend going for buds that we rated five stars. But what if you'd like a high-performing set of buds without the premium price tag?

Well, then we'd point you in the direction of a pair of four-star earbuds that are on offer. Right now, that would be the JBL Tour Pro 3 earbuds, which are discounted down to just £169 at Amazon.

The buds deliver solid, precise sound and a slew of high-end features that make them a guaranteed win for most people. Sounds like it's time for a personal treat or maybe a gift for a loved one?

Though we gave them a four-star rating when we originally reviewed them in November 2024, feeling they weren't quite as impressive as their then-rivals, the five-star Sony WF-1000XM5, with this discount they're well worth considering.

The flagship JBL Tour Pro 3 uses a hybrid dual-driver system in each earbud, with improved drive units promising greater clarity and depth alongside more powerful bass reproduction and vivid vocal detail.

For going the extra sonic mile, the Tour Pro 3 offers support for the hi-res LDAC codec with compatible source devices. Read more about it in our JBL Tour Pro 3 review.

Central to the new JBLs' identity is that distinctive smart case, first seen in the Tour Pro 2 earbuds and making its return for the third-gen model.

Not only does the case feature a 30 per cent larger screen and more customisation and useful control options than ever before, but it also acts as a wireless audio transmitter from USB or analogue sources such as in-flight entertainment systems –similar to B&W's Pi8 and Pi6 earbuds.

The Tour Pro 3 grant standard active noise cancelling (ANC) as well as JBL's customisable True Adaptive Noise Cancellation technology, which measures and monitors environmental changes and then adapts your ANC experience accordingly.

Battery-wise, the swanky new earbuds offer an impressive 44 potential hours of playtime (11 hours from the buds plus 33 hours from the case), although naturally that drops when ANC is switched on.

The features don't stop there. JBL's take on spatial audio with head tracking is onboard; voice-tracking algorithms promise exceptional clarity when making hands-free calls, while Auracast capabilities let you share your audio with other Auracast-compatible devices (such as the JBL Xtreme 4).

The JBL app offers full EQ customisation, ANC-mode toggling, an ear-tip fit test, and a handy 'find my earbuds' function, plus a whole raft of customisation options for your smart charging case. Want a picture of your precious pup as your case's wallpaper? This is the place to do it.

If you've been waiting for these earbuds to drop in price or are simply looking to invest in some of the best wireless buds around, then now is the time to act.

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Read the JBL Tour Pro 3 review

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These are the best wireless earbuds on the market right now

If you've been waiting for a discount on some new Apple 'buds, you'll know that it's a pretty rare occurrence. But, if there's one time it's most likely to happen, it's Black Friday.

And, as if by magic, there's one heck of a deal that you seriously don't want to miss out on during the annual sales event.

For just $100 at Amazon, the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC have been slashed by a mega $79. That's the lowest price we've ever seen them, but you'll have to be quick!

The Apple AirPods 4 with ANC are a no-brainer for Apple fans, especially if you don't like the traditional in-ear tips of the AirPods Pro 2.

The AirPods 4 don't burrow into your ear in the same way, yet Apple has managed to give these 'open' design buds surprisingly capable active noise canceling, which is a relief considering you pay extra for the privilege.

In fact, our expert testers said: "In the AirPods 4, you don’t get the benefit of this seal, but what Apple has done is target low-level frequencies specifically to cancel out. We’re talking engine rumbles, the sound of aircon and exhaust fans, the low noise of traffic and general deep, low-level hums."

So, aside from effective ANC, what else do the AirPods 4 have to offer? Well, they come equipped with personalised spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, as well as clear voice call capabilities and hands-free gesture controls.

Plus, like the flagship Pro 2 model, the AirPods 4 with ANC sport Bluetooth 5.3 and have an IP54 dust and waterproof rating, both of which are updates over the AirPods 3.

And despite feeling a little disappointed that, while Apple claim a 30-hour battery life, we found it to sits more around 20 hours if you use ANC, it's still a beefy amount of time to enjoy your tunes.

Sonically, we said in our full review: "It doesn’t take us long to recognize that the AirPods 4 with ANC have a similar sonic presentation to the flagship Pro 2 model. There’s clarity and detail, agility and balance, along with a focus on voices that make them immediately appealing to listen to."

And Black Friday offers the perfect opportunity to test our these earbuds for yourself at the seriously impressive price of $100 on Amazon.

MORE:

Read our full Apple AirPods 4 with ANC review

Black Friday 2025 hi-fi and home cinema deals live: our experts' picks of the top savings on speakers, headphones, TVs, soundbars and more

How to avoid bad hi-fi and home cinema deals this Black Friday – top tips and tricks from our review team

Black Friday quick links

• AirPods Pro 2: $80 off
• Amazon: up to $20 off Fire TV Sticks
• Best Buy: save $1000 on Samsung soundbar
• Bose: save up to $100 on headphones, speakers
• Crutchfield: big savings on hi-fi separates
• Fire TV Stick 4K: save 33% on streamer
• Klipsch: save up to $300 on speakers and subs
• NAD amplifier: save $900 at Crutchfield
• Roku Streaming Stick 4K: was $50 now $39
• Samsung: save up to $2000 on QLED TVs
• Sonos: big money off speaker bundles
• Target: up to 35% off headphones
• Walmart: up to 65% off TVs
• World Wide Stereo: up to 60% off AV

In the same way that there's cheese and then there's cheese (USA, up your game), or that there are mountains and then there are mountains (Snowdon is no K2), there are deals...and then there are deals.

This, here, falls in the latter camp. We think the Røde NTH-100 are some of the finest wired headphones we've tested in the last three or so years, and while they've dropped before, it's been nothing compared to this.

The current Award-winners are a measly £84 on Amazon down from £149, and when you consider that the last discount we saw dropped them to around £108, you'll realise just how ridiculously good this deal is. Do not miss out.

The Røde NTH-100 might be approaching three years old now, but there's a reason we still constantly recommend them to music fans as some of the best value wired headphones we've ever tested.

The cans pack impressive 40mm full-range dynamic drivers over each ear, with a frequency response of 5Hz - 35kHz, and the result is a sound that's as suitable for the casual listener as it is for more mixers, podcasters or part-time DJs.

In our Røde NTH-100 review, we gushed that they're "an almost fanatically insightful and revealing listen, happy to dish all the details no matter how minor and/or fleeting. They’re a balanced and poised listen, and not exactly analytical for the sake of it – but they’ll describe the whole picture for you".

They're far more comfortable than you might expect at this price, boasting a well-judged clamping force and ‘CoolTech’ gel integrated into the memory foam earcups for generous comfort for extended periods. Ok, they'll eventually those pads will heat up as minutes turn to hours of listening, but rarely enough to ruin your considerable listening pleasure.

The five-star cans come equipped with a 2.4m cable which may be a bit much for more casual listeners (but too long is generally better than too short), while all other elements of construction and usability are consistently high across the board.

We've never seen the Røde NTH-100 drop this love. Run (virtually) to Amazon and reward yourself with a pair. We insist.

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How to avoid bad hi-fi and home cinema deals this Black Friday – top tips and tricks from our review team

Black Friday home cinema deals live: our experts’ picks of the best savings on TVs, Dolby Atmos soundbar, projectors and more

Black Friday 2025 hi-fi deals live: our audio experts picks of the top savings on speakers, headphones, vinyl and more

Black Friday quick links

• Amazon: browse all of today's best deals
• B&W speakers: save £200
• Bluetooth speaker: 48% off five-star JBL
• Bose QC Ultra Earbuds: save £100
• Bravia 8 TV: save 34% on 55in Sony TV
• Denon AV receiver: save £500
• Dolby Atmos soundbar: down to £299
• ELAC Debut 2: five-star speakers now £199
• Headphones: Sennheiser Momentum 4 now £169
• John Lewis: £500 off LG and Sony OLED TVs
• Richer Sounds: browse Black Friday deals
• Sevenoaks: £150 off Award-winning speakers
• TVs, movies, home cinema: browse the best deals

Dali is best known for its stereo speakers, but its latest wave of headphones made quite the splash when it launched last year.

One set of cans to make their mark on our test team was the Dali IO-8, which sit in the middle of the range. We raved about them in our review.

Now they've got a discount we can rave about too – the headphones currently have £150 off at Smart Home Sounds in an early Black Friday deal.

A deal audiophiles everywhere should take note of!

We were very impressed with Dali's latest headphone effort in our five-star Dali IO-8 review, a particular standout being their noise-cancelling capabilities.

"As for active noise cancelling, we find the IO-8 excellent," our review reads. "They are better than both the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 and Mark Levinson No. 5909 for taking out train and bus noises on our daily commute and don’t have that unpleasant ‘suck-out’ feel when doing so. They are particularly good at taking out low-frequency rumbles and don’t overreact to short, sharp transients."

Sound quality is terrific also, with the Dali IO-8 proving themselves to be superb all-rounders that are well-balanced tonally but also deliver best-in-class insight and dynamic expression.

AptX, aptX HD and aptX Adaptive Bluetooth codecs are all supported, and are fired through large 50mm paper/wood fibre drivers for a pleasing sonic experience.

Call quality also shines, and 3.5mm to 3.5mm and USB Type A to USB Type C cables are included for easy connectivity.

Unusually for a product of this type, the Dali IO-8 don't have a dedicated control app, meaning you'll have to make do with the extensive on-cup touch buttons. But we don't see this as a major problem – the Dali IO-8 are top-class performers and are now £150 off at Smart Home Sounds.

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These are the best noise-cancelling headphones you can buy

And the best audiophile headphones

Is hi-fi really getting better? Our technical editor ponders its progression

When Apple launched the AirPods Pro 3, it made some bold claims. Not only is sound quality boosted, but the noise cancellation is supposedly twice as good as it was on their predecessors. You can see how they compare to the previous-gen model in our dedicated AirPods Pro 3 vs AirPods Pro 2 comparison article.

As you'll see from our five-star AirPods Pro 3 review, Apple's latest offering are an excellent set of wireless earbuds. But no product exists in a vacuum. And as buyers ourselves, we want to know how Apple's latest compares to the best wireless earbuds around.

This is where we see how those bold claims really hold up.

Taking on the AirPods Pro 3 are the Sony WF-1000XM5, which we've long recommended as the best option for most people. They are two-time What Hi-Fi? Award winners, and a true benchmark for sound quality and features.

So if Apple really wants to claim that its new AirPods Pro offer "the world's best active noise cancellation of any in-ear wireless headphones," it will have to go through Sony first. Let's see how they get on.

AirPods Pro 3 vs Sony WF-1000XM5: price

Apple's AirPods Pro 3 arrived at £219 / $249 / AU$429 in September 2025, representing a welcome £30 price drop for UK buyers compared to their predecessors. Outside of the UK, they have the same launch price as the Pro 2 in the USA and a AU$30 price bump in Australia.

The Sony WF-1000XM5, originally priced at £259 / $299 / AU$419 when launched two years ago, have dropped significantly since and can now be found regularly at £219 or even lower if a store's got a good deal running. At the time of writing, you can pick them up for as low as £179 in the UK, for example.

With the XM6 rumoured to be coming soon, expect the XM5's price to drop further.

**Winner: Sony WF-1000XM5**

AirPods Pro 3 vs Sony WF-1000XM5: design and comfort

Apple has refined the familiar AirPods Pro design for the third generation, analysing over 10,000 3D ear scans to optimise the fit.

Each earbud is slightly smaller than its predecessor, with Apple claiming the geometry is specifically shaped to better match ear contours. The package includes five eartip sizes, including a new XXS option, and with updated eartip material.

The earbuds themselves are lightweight and comfortable to wear, although our reviews team was divided when it came to the fit. Those of us who found the AirPods Pro 2 provided a secure fit in our ears found the Pro 3's new shape protruded a bit far, while those who didn't get on with the Pro 2 found the Pro 3 a snug fit. The only real solution is to try them for yourself before buying.

The new eartips are a bit more forgiving than the Pro 2's – we achieved a good fit from both the M and L sizes, for example, with no noticeable loss in sound quality or their noise cancellation properties.

The Sony WF-1000XM5 take a dramatically different approach, shrinking approximately 25 per cent compared to their predecessors while becoming 20 per cent lighter.

The result is a sleek, glossy design with smooth lines and subtle curves that look distinctly premium, although they are heavier than the AirPods.

The Sony earbuds feature a mostly glossy plastic exterior with a textured matte finish on the touch control surfaces, though this smooth design can make extraction from the charging case somewhat tricky.

In our testing, the Sony WF-1000XM5 proved comfortable, though the fit isn't quite as secure as some rivals due to the heavier body. The polyurethane tips create a good seal when positioned correctly, but lack the 'grippiness' that would prevent them moving. Some on the review team also found the material of the eartips to be quite hard and fatiguing on the ears over long listening sessions.

Sony's IPX4 rating provides sweat resistance, while Apple has upgraded to IP57 for enhanced dust, water and sweat protection. The touch controls on both earbuds work responsively, although we find the swiping action on the AirPods Pro 3's stems more intuitive than tapping multiple times on the Sony bud to adjust volume.

We have to call this round a draw, as fit is such a personal thing. Both are well made and should be comfortable, but we wish the Sony's eartips were a bit softer and Apple's redesign suited all ear shapes.

**Winner: Draw**

AirPods Pro 3 vs Sony WF-1000XM5: noise cancelling

Apple has made bold claims about the AirPods Pro 3's noise cancelling, promising "the world's best active noise cancellation of any in-ear wireless headphones".

The company claims up to twice as effective ANC compared to the AirPods Pro 2, achieved through ultra-low noise microphones, advanced computational audio, and new foam-infused eartips for greater passive isolation.

On a flight to France, the Pro 3 successfully muted mid- and low-frequency noise. "The deep rumble of the airplane’s engine noise was damped down further than when listened to through the Pro 2, while the general chatter from people and announcements from the pilot were quieter through the new earbuds on full ANC mode," we wrote in our AirPods Pro 3 review.

In the Sony camp, the WF-1000XM5 proved their noise-cancelling credentials in our testing, with Sony claiming approximately 20 per cent noise reduction improvement over the Sony WF-1000XM4.

The implementation uses three microphones per earbud (versus two on the previous model), including dual feedback mics for better low-frequency cancellation. The integrated processor V2 and HD Noise Cancelling processor QN2e also work together effectively.

In our Sony WF-1000XM5 review, we noted that the buds "remove an extra layer of midrange noise in comparison [with the XM4] which makes for an extremely pleasant listen with minimal background noise to contend with." The effect is also more subtle and less intrusive than some more effective noise-cancelling buds, like those made by Bose.

And in comparison? The Sonys are good, but the AirPods are better. Pitting the side by side, we found the AirPods to be superior to the Sonys at quieting mid and low frequencies. The Sonys let in a bit more background noise than the AirPods Pro 3, especially higher-frequency voices and instruments.

**Winner: Apple AirPods Pro 3**

AirPods Pro 3 vs Sony WF-1000XM5: features and battery life

The Sony WF-1000XM5 deliver eight hours of battery life with Bluetooth and ANC activated, plus another 16 hours from the wireless charging case.

Adaptive Sound Control also automatically adjusts ambient sound filtering based on location and activity, and the enhanced touch controls now allow simultaneous operation of playback, sound modes, and volume.

DSEE Extreme processing attempts to enhance lower-quality music files, while Multipoint Bluetooth allows simultaneous connection to two devices.

Sony's established ecosystem includes the Sound Connect app with six sound presets and seven-band EQ, 360 Reality Audio support with dynamic head tracking, and the useful Speak-to-Chat feature.

As for Apple, it has significantly expanded the AirPods Pro 3's feature set. Battery life increases to eight hours with ANC enabled and 24 in total with the charge case – matching the Sonys and improving on the AirPods Pro 2's six hours.

It offers seamless connection with iOS devices, and features Spatial Audio with dynamic head-tracking, Conversation Mode and a clever Adaptive ANC mode. There are also ample hearing health and hearing aid features on the AirPods Pro 3.

The new Live Translation provides real-time speech translation, lowering speaker volume while boosting translation. Heart rate tracking also uses special sensors pulsing 256 times per second, with 50 workout types supported through iPhone integration.

The degree to which this matters will depend on your use case, but if you're after a pair of buds for exercise, this is a rather big bonus.

In terms of Bluetooth streaming, Apple continues to support the standard AAC and SBC codecs, while Sony goes on further by supporting the LDAC codec, which lets you stream music in higher quality from compatible phones.

On paper, Apple’s extra health and hearing aid features put some distance between it and the two-year-old Sony set, though it's worth remembering that most of the best AirPods features are iOS-only (and not everyone will need these features). They are neck-and-neck when it comes to user-friendly features, such as wear detection, and we had no issues with connectivity or daily use.

**Winner: Draw**

AirPods Pro 3 vs Sony WF-1000XM5: sound quality

This is where the Sony WF-1000XM5 have truly excelled, earning praise for their exceptional clarity and detail retrieval.

Our Sony WF-1000XM5 review highlighted a significant character change from previous Sony models – less rich and full in the bass department, but with remarkable clarity and precision that sets new standards for wireless earbuds.

The 8.4mm Dynamic Driver X, larger than the predecessor's 6.4mm unit, uses dual materials for different frequency ranges and helps reduce mechanical noise.

Testing revealed the Sony earbuds' ability to maintain timing and organisation even with complex tracks like Radiohead's 15 Step, keeping percussion well-defined where lesser earbuds would create a jumbled mess.

The midrange investigation is thorough, exposing every element of recordings with authentic harmonics and proper texture. There's an openness and definition that we found quite exceptional.

Meanwhile, Apple promises significant sound improvements for the AirPods Pro 3 through a new multiport acoustic architecture that controls airflow, resulting in improved sound throughout.

Apple’s next-generation Adaptive EQ also aims to transform bass response while widening the soundstage and providing vivid vocal clarity to higher frequencies.

We found they are "clearer and more detailed... more spacious-sounding and more dynamic" than their five-star predecessors, we noted in our AirPods Pro 3 review.

The neutral sonic profile works well across a range of genres: "There is bite and attack to the crunchy, brash highs of Fontaines D.C.’s Starburster, while the basslines in Forgot About Dre are taut, agile and tuneful, and punch with quite a good deal of depth and power in Billie Eilish’s Blue."

Sonically, they're excellent, albeit not quite as superb as their Sony rivals. They have a sweet, fluid balance and plenty of spaciousness, which makes them easy to listen to. But the Sonys are simply more revealing in the finer textures of instruments and voices, offering more depth to piano notes and a more taut bass. The Sony deliver excellent timing and musicality despite their more analytical approach.

You won't feel shortchanged with either performance, but for our money, the Sonys sound better.

**Winner: Sony WF-1000XM5**

AirPods Pro 3 vs Sony WF-1000XM5: verdict

The Sony WF-1000XM5 have proven themselves to be exceptional wireless earbuds, earning our five-star rating, and two previous What Hi-Fi? Awards, for their outstanding clarity, detail and analytical prowess.

They represent a significant evolution in Sony's approach, prioritising precision over warmth while maintaining excellent timing and musicality.

Apple's AirPods Pro 3 arrive with impressive specs and plenty of improvements over their already accomplished predecessors. The seamless iOS experience, innovative health features, and improved ANC quality will certainly impress would-be buyers.

While the AirPods Pro 3 are excellent in their own right – with a five-star review, no less – and offer enjoyable, improved sound quality, the older Sonys remain the better buy overall. That's thanks to their lower price, greater versatility with Android and iOS, and superior sound quality.

** Overall winner: Sony WF-1000XM5 **

MORE:

AirPods Pro 3: price, features, and everything you need to know about Apple's new flagship wireless earbuds

Read our Sony WF-1000XM5 review

Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs AirPods Pro 2: which Apple earbuds are better?

If you're looking for a pair of good-sounding earbuds that also boast unbelievable battery life, then we highly recommend the Cambridge Audio Melomania M100.

Not only are they some of the best wireless earbuds around, but they're also discounted down to £99 at Amazon. That's a huge £70 saving on the price when we tested them.

Even though they'd benefit from a touch more drive, the M100 are crowd-pleasing buds with decent ANC, a comfortable design and a pretty appealing price tag to go with them.

Best Cambridge Melomania M100 earbuds deal 

The Cambridge Audio M100 have a great set of features.

The headline grabber is battery life, with ten hours offered from the buds with ANC on, going up to 16 hours with ANC off, and a whopping total of 52 hours with the charging case. This compares to only eight hours per charge and 24 hours total on the five-star Sony WF-1000XM5.

Noise cancelling is effectively implemented (even if transparency mode could be improved), while multipoint connectivity and a gaming mode for low latency help you feel like you're getting your money's worth.

• View more Prime Day deals on Amazon

With Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio, there’s even support for aptX Lossless CD-quality streams and next-gen Auracast. Oh, and there's the small matter of having comedy legend Matt Berry doing the earbuds' voice prompts – a bonus!

On sound quality, we praised their overall even tonal balance, as well as the clean, smooth, and composed sound.

We said in our review: "These Cambridge Audio buds are impressively detailed and clear, with every drum snap, synth crackle, and breathy vocal coming through with crisp detail. It’s a very clean sound too, allowing us to turn the volume up to levels we really shouldn’t recommend without getting too fatigued."

In terms of dynamics, we felt that the M100 "could do with an energy shot to better relay the momentum and rhythmic drive of songs," but that relaxed presentation lends to their easy-going presentation.

If that's not enough, the M100 are comfy to wear thanks to their ample choice of five ear tip sizes, including silicone and foam options, and with on-bud touch controls that work well.

If all that sounds appealing, head over to Amazon to take advantage of this super saving.

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Read our Cambridge Audio Melomania M100 review

These are the best wireless earbuds around

Vinyl Week 2025: exclusive reviews, features and more

Getting onto our list of the best headphones, is, in many ways, the ultimate accolade. Our mammoth rundown includes cans of all types and from all backgrounds – wired and wireless, open and closed-back, earbuds and over-ears – making gaining entry a serious achievement.

The two new entries to the list are very different headphone types with poles-apart price tags. They have each bowled us over with the respective performances they produce.

The five-star Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro X are our top pick for the best headphones for home use, thanks to a combination of excellent comfort for long hours of listening, and solid sound quality. This wired model has an open-backed design, so they are unsuited to being taken out in public due to leaking sound everywhere.

Their inclusion to our guide is mainly, however, because they sound truly outstanding for their £189 / $199 / AU$399 price tag.

Acting as the successors to the excellent DT 900 Pro X, the new open-backed cans are a sonic delight, elevating almost all key performance metrics while retaining the plush comfort and usability we have long admired from Beyerdynamic's wired over-ears.

If you're seeking a pair of wired headphones for home use with your hi-fi and you don't mind a little sonic leakage, the DT 990 Pro X are now our number one pick. Beyerdynamic bills them as a 'studio' set, but for our money, they are just as happy delighting you with your favourite disco classics as they are digging deep into the details of a tricky DJ mix.

What if you want to go wireless but don't fancy sacrificing on sound? Well, then it's imperative, yes imperative, that you seek out the Focal Bathys Mg as a matter of priority.

They are, inevitably, a lot more expensive than the Beyerdynamics (and most other headphones) at £999 / $1299 / AU$2300. That's why we've dubbed them the best high-end wireless headphones in our guide; but boy are they talented.

This really is exclusive territory in which the Bathys Mg are operating, occupied by established big-money performers such as the ageing Mark Levinson No.5909 (£749 / $799) or the T+A Solitaire T (tested at £1200 / $1600 / AU$2160).

We didn't before have a place in this list for cans that expensive, but we have decided to include the Focals, because we believe they genuinely push the boundaries of wireless performance. And, while wires remain king, the Bathys Mg is one of the best indications we've heard that wireless could, one day, close the gap. If you're willing to pay, of course.

Beyerdynamic handles sound like a Pro

We make absolutely no assumptions about our readers' current financial situation, but let's start with the headphones that are probably in a more… realistic price bracket for the average buyer.

There are, of course, better headphones out there at higher prices, but you could pick up a pair of DT 990 Pro X for £189 / $199 / AU$399 and rarely feel as though you weren't getting enough sound for your pounds.

Thanks to their signature Stellar.45 drivers employing Beyerdynamic's layered Polyether Ether Ketone (‘PEEK’)’ thermoplastic polymer diaphragm alongside a Neodymium motor system, the DT 990 Pro X have the audio chops to put most price-comparable cans in the shade.

These are some of the most detailed and clear-sounding headphones we have heard at this level. They offer exceptional detail resolution paired with far more clarity and openness than the outgoing DT 900 Pro X.

No matter the source devices or material they are tasked with tackling, Beyerdynamic's mid-range cans have the talent to bring out your music's best thanks to their even-handed balance and informative yet entertaining approach.

Entertaining is the word. The DT 990 Pro X handle dynamics superbly as they tease out low-level variations with ease. That's paired with a rich, full midrange which gives instruments and voices real bite, all anchored by a bass response that feels well-judged, agile and appropriately taut.

It's not as though they're tough to live with, either. We do love those earpads, while the headband's weight distribution and the cans' balanced weight distribution make for an easy experience. The wired over-ears come with a detachable 2m cable with a locking mini-XLR connector, with a 3.5mm jack is fitted as standard and an included 6.3mm adapter.

Blending comfort and sonic class in one stellar package as they do, it's going to take something special to dethrone the DT 990 Pro X any time soon. They come, as you'll have gathered, highly recommended.

The Bathys Mg push wireless boundaries

We were so impressed with the Focal Bathys Mg that we decided to create a whole new entry slot for them as our ‘best high-end wireless headphones’. When wireless sounds this good, you're more than happy to move things around to make sure it is properly recognised.

There are aspects of the noise-cancelling Bathys Mg that you might not get along with. This is quite a bulky pair of cans, weighing in at 350g, and their bold, almost brassy design can draw attention when you're out in public. There are no touch controls, and there's not even any wear detection, either. In this day and age? Unbelievable.

The Focal cans make their way onto our list because of how they sound, of course. Even when you account for their monster price, this is a beautifully balanced and neutral pair of over-ears, delivering music with a pleasingly straight bat and avoiding the pitfalls of artificially boosted bass.

For home listening, you can go from wired to wireless, either using the 3.5mm jack or by using Focal’s own built-in DAC, which supports sample rates all the way up to 24-bit/192kHz.

However you listen, detail levels are superb, as is the clarity and spaciousness on display, offering up a layered performance that feels elegant, nimble and beautifully arranged. The Bathys Mg offer outstanding balance and refinement, yet they have the soul and verve to make music sound entertaining and cinematic rather than overly clinical or analytical.

As we say in our review: “We would implore you to take the time to listen to the Focal Bathys Mg. The original Bathys showed Focal could make the jump from wired to wireless successfully, and the changes made for this version push the envelope even further.”

If you're lucky enough to have the cash to splash, you could do a lot worse than spending it on the boundary-pushing Focal Bathys Mg. A special pair of headphones.

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Rewind: Five-star hi-fi headphones, a CD playing turntable, Dolby Atmos musings and more

Also consider the Dali IO-8

Best wireless headphones reviewed and rated by our in-house expert

We’ve hit the final week of September, and to celebrate we’ve penned a fresh entry into our regular Rewind hi-fi and home cinema news digest.

In it, our team of experts contended with everything from a Philips launch event in Amsterdam to a fresh batch of AV hardware in need of the What Hi-Fi? review treatment.

Here’s everything you need to know.

Apple TV+ is smashing it right now

Testing home cinema hardware means nearly all of the What Hi-Fi? team frequently watch a lot of TV shows and films.

Our stringent comparative testing process requires us to always have a wealth of current 4K Blu-rays to hand, with scenes appropriate for testing things like dark detail, peak brightness, colour volume, audio quality and more.

We also have to see how devices with streaming smarts handle the most-used services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, Apple TV+ and more.

And in doing so, over the past few months we’ve found ourselves using one service in particular more and more frequently, so much so that our senior staff writer, Lewis Empson, felt the need to pen an article celebrating it.

Read the full story: I'm a home cinema expert and if you care about 4K HDR or Dolby Atmos, one streaming service is a clear winner

Philips launched a new CD playing turntable

We know you, our wonderful readers, love physical media. Which is why we were excited to be there in person to see Philips launch a new turntable with a built-in CD player at an event in Eindhoven last week.

Yes, you read that right, the new Philips Fidelio FT1 is a belt-drive, two speed, Bluetooth turntable with a CD player built into its chassis, making it a rare piece of affordable hardware that will cover the needs of most physical media fans.

We didn’t get a chance to listen to the Fidelio FT1, but from what we’ve seen it could be a great entry-level option, or ideal choice for those on a strict budget, with Philips indicating it will retail for around €299 (roughly £260 / $350).

Read the full story: Philips' versatile new Bluetooth turntable features a built-in CD player

Our editor explained, again, why small TVs are cut from a different cloth

One of the most common mistakes we see TV buyers make is assuming that every set in a series performs the same, regardless of its size.

And being fair, there’s a good reason for that. Many sites and companies present them as being identical. Most reviewers even present their assessments as being for an entire family of TVs, like the LG C5, or Samsung S90F, rather than refer to the specific size they tested.

This is a problem, as there are always differences between certain sizes, especially if you’re comparing a 65-inch set to a 48-inch, or 42-inch model.

We know this as we review the different sizes in each family whenever we can – hence why you’ll find reviews of the 55-inch LG C5, 48-inch LG C5 on the site right now, with one of the 42-inch LG C5 soon to follow.

Eager to make sure buyers don’t fall victim to this easy pitfall while picking their next TV, last week our TV and AV editor, Tom Parsons, penned a fresh feature explaining why this is the case.

Read the full story: Small OLED TVs do not perform as well as big ones – and it's not just about brightness

Beyerdynamic's latest open-backs are great

German audio powerhouse Beyerdynamic is one of the first brands that comes to mind if you ask any hi-fi fan about open-back, wired headphones.

Which is why our team of headphone experts were excited to get its latest DT 990 Pro X pair into our listening rooms for review.

The headphones are a follow up to the brand’s five-star DT 900 Pro X, which launched in 2021. At first glance they look very similar to their predecessors, having a near identical design and using the same Stellar.45 drive units as most recent Beyerdynamic headphones.

But the tuning and general refinements it has made work to great effect, with the 990 Pro X delivering a clean, revealing sound that’s packed with detail regardless of what test track we threw at it – even when using a basic laptop streaming from Tidal as our source.

Read our full Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro X review

We took a moment to appreciate what filmmakers are doing with Dolby Atmos

We talk a lot about Dolby Atmos hardware at What Hi-Fi?. That’s especially true this year where we’ve seen a wealth of top-end Dolby Atmos soundbars and systems launched. These include the incredible, five-star KEF XIO – the first every Dolby Atmos soundbar from the hi-fi heavyweight – and Samsung Q990F. The latter being a five-star follow-up to last year’s Award-winning Samsung Q990D.

But, we don’t always make much noise about improvements to the content using the tech. Which is why last week we took the time to pen a fresh feature celebrating the increasingly innovative ways filmmakers are using Dolby Atmos to deliver truly breath-taking films that utterly immerse you with their clever audio wizardry.

Read the full story: Dolby Atmos is getting better – and awesome new home cinema kit is only partly to thank

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These are the best Dolby Atmos soundbars we’ve tested

We rate the best record players for music fans

Our picks of the best OLED TVs

As someone who has to wear glasses every waking moment in order to have the foggiest idea what’s going on, it can be quite the task to find a pair of headphones or wireless earbuds that don't interfere with my specs or my listening experience.

Even though my preferred type is usually over-ear headphones, it’s always a little uncomfortable to balance the arm of the glasses under the cups without them digging in.

That’s why one of Beyerdynamic’s latest headphone offerings at this year’s IFA in Berlin especially caught my eye.

Enter the Amiron Zero, the German brand’s open true wireless clip-on earbuds, which it claims provide “serious sound and outstanding wearing comfort".

With a petite C-shaped design, they wrap around the side of the ear to deliver “impressive sound quality". Each earbud only weighs six grams in an attempt to limit the amount of strain on the ear canal, so they hopefully you'll barely even remember you're wearing them after a time.

They will also set you back £129 (around $176 / AU$265), which isn't a ridiculous outlay for a pair of wireless buds. The sports-oriented, in-ear Sony LinkBuds Fit, for instance, clock in at around the same price of around £149 / $179, although cost a bit more in Australia (AU$348).

This is far from the first time we have seen this type of design on the market, of course.

One of the most notable models to stand out in recent testing are the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds, which we gave a four-star rating for their entertaining sound performance and comfortable, forward-looking fit.

You wear them slightly differently to the Amiron Zero, as you hook the earbud in the bottom of your concha (the bowl-like section of your outer ear), then wrap the band around the back of your ear and allow the battery cylinder to help clamp the earbud in place. Still, the specs-friendly design is very much present.

Huawei also gave the 'clip-on' configuration a go with its FreeClip buds from early 2024, and while they left a lot to be desired on the sound front, we were impressed by how well implemented their innovative design proved to be.

Even though these aforementioned earbuds offer a much-needed alternative for the glasses wearers among us, there is often a fair amount of compromise made with such designs.

Clip on earbuds don’t usually deliver as good sound quality as ones that fit more securely into your ear. That’s because the lack of a seal means they don’t tend to sound as punchy or dynamic, especially when they are suppose to allow the user to be more aware of their surroundings. More traditional designs tend to offer you more bass weight, too, thanks to the presence of a proper in-ear seal.

That said, we've tested 'open' buds which have impressed us in our test rooms. The Sony LinkBuds Open and Apple's AirPods 4 impressed with their decent sound balance, and both earned respective four-star reviews, even if price-comparable in-ear alternatives still tend to offer a bit more in the sound department.

We haven't heard the Amiron Zero in action yet, so we're not certain whether this will be the case for these latest buds, but I'm excited to see what the future holds for these type of designs as someone who struggles with traditional earbuds.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Open certainly demonstrated that open, clip-on designs could blend performance and comfort, so I'm hoping Beyerdynamic picks up the mantle at a more affordable price point.

It's a tough balance to strike between a secure yet unobstructive fit and good sound quality, so I'm curious how the category will develop. If the Amiron Zero can really nail their sonic performance while making good on their promise of better usability and comfort for glasses wearers and non-glasses wearers alike, I could be certainly tempted to try a pair for myself.

MORE:

Read our review of the five-star Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro X over-ears

And our full review of the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds

Check out the best wireless earbuds you can buy

The Apple AirPods Pro 3 were a long time coming – three years, in fact – but they were worth the wait.

Our AirPods Pro 3 review praised their advances in sound quality and active noise cancellation (ANC), tweaked design and upgraded roster of features.

But the world of wireless earbuds is a tough place to be. Bose's flagship QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) stand tall as some of the best noise-cancelling earbuds we've heard, and they too offer plenty for the discerning music listener thanks to their detailed, entertaining sound and excellent fit.

So how do these two pairs square up against each other? And which should you buy? Let's find out.

Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen): price

Both of these are flagship pairs, so neither comes cheap.

The QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) cost £299 / $299 / AU$450. That's a lot of coin, but the same price as their predecessors cost when they launched two years prior, so it's not too unreasonable. We have seen some discounts of around £30 too, though only occasionally.

The AirPods Pro 3 are cheaper, with a launch price of £219 / $249 / AU$429. That's actually £30 cheaper than their predecessors, and still £10 cheaper than when Apple cut the price and switched from a Lightning port to USB-C in 2023. Reason to celebrate if you're in the UK, then.

We have also recently seen a discount on the AirPods Pro 3, dropping £30 to £199. Even more reason to celebrate.

** Winner: Apple AirPods Pro 3 **

Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen): build & comfort

Bose's earbuds tend to be some of the most comfortable around, and that's certainly the case with the brand's cannily designed QC Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen).

Their unconventional design fits perfectly in the ear, aided by the stability bands and flatter eartip designs that offer a nice, secure experience. They stay put whether you're crunching out a 5K or head banging to Motörhead, an impressive feat considering these aren't specifically conceived as workout buds. The Bose buds fit everyone on our review team comfortably and with no issue.

Their touch controls are responsive and intuitive, and you can customise them to your liking. You do only get three sizes of ear tips though, which seems a bit stingy – the AirPods Pro 3 come with five, including a new XXS size – but the second-gen QC Ultra Earbuds' stability bands keep them from tumbling out of your ears.

The Bose are much more colourful than the AirPods, coming in four finishes, including the rather fetching Deep Plum. As you'll know with Apple, any AirPods that aren't the over-ear Max only come in one colour: pristine, iconic white.

The Pro 3 are every inch a pair of AirPods, but Apple says their fit has been optimised using more than 10,000 3D ear scans, boasting a slightly smaller size than their predecessors and a design shaped to match the geometry of the ear.

Apple claims these are the "most stable and best fitting AirPods ever", but our testing was not without issues. Only certain members of our reviews team achieved a snug, secure fit – and that was those who couldn't get the same from the AirPods Pro 2. Those who did get on well with the Pro 2 found that the Pro 3's new shape protruded a little too far out.

We did, however, find more leeway with the ear tips. We got on just fine with both M and L sizes, with no noticeable variation in sound quality or ANC from either. The AirPods Pro 3's touch controls are a breeze to use, and we particularly like the touch-capacitative control on the stems that let us change volume on the fly.

Fit is such a personal thing that we would recommend you try any pair of wireless earbuds for yourself before buying. But for the more universal fit (despite being heavier), the Bose take this round.

** Winner: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) **

Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen): features

The Bose buds give you six hours of use, or 24 hours total when using the charging case. That's less from the buds than the AirPods Pro 3, which last for eight hours, but the same total battery life, so the AirPods edge this one.

The Bose support aptX Adaptive for streaming in 24-bit hi-res lossless with low latency via compatible sources, along with the standard AAC and SBC codecs, while the AirPods lack aptX or any kind of hi-res support. As was the case with the AirPods Pro 2, Apple is sticking with the AAC codec and considers the buds' intrinsic qualities to be sufficient to negate the need for any particularly fancy codecs.

Both support spatial audio with dynamic head tracking – Bose Immersive Audio and Apple Spatial Audio respectively – though we're less keen on Bose's take on this format than Apple's. Apple also includes a more personalised spatial audio feature for iPhone users.

The Bose buds support Bluetooth Multipoint connectivity for easier switching between two connected devices. Apple has its own take on this tech, but it only works with iOS devices – but it is very seamless in use.

The new AirPods now support Live Translation, which can translate live speech in real time. They lower the volume of the speaker and boost the audio translation so you can focus on what's being said without distraction, and can provide on-screen transcripts directly to your iPhone. Increíble!

This feature has also come to the AirPods 4 with ANC and AirPods Pro 2, but note that you'll need to pair them with an Apple Intelligence-enabled iOS device running iOS 26 to get it to work.

Apple has added health and fitness skills to the AirPods Pro 3. Heart rate tracking is now possible thanks to a small photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor that measures light absorption in blood flow within your ear.

Using your iPhone, you can set the AirPods Pro 3 to track 50 different types of workout, and there's a new Workout Buddy to give you personalised insights while you're huffing and puffing. There are also hearing tests and hearing health-related features in the AirPods Pro 3 that are useful.

The AirPods Pro 3 are more weather-resistant than the Bose, offering an IP57 rating to the QC Earbuds' IPX4. That means they're more dust- and water-resistant – ideal for exercising in the great outdoors.

Overall, the AirPods have more features and the better battery life, not to mention the superior spatial audio feature. But the Bose buds work just as well with Android devices as iOS, and support the higher-quality aptX Adaptive codec.

The AirPods edge this one, but if you use an Android device you'll be better served by the feature set of the Bose QC Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen).

**Winner: Apple AirPods Pro 3**

Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen): noise cancelling

ANC is the feather in Bose's cap. The firm invented the tech, and it continues to excel in its implementation for both its in-ear and over-ear headphones.

Bose's latest flagship earbuds offer smoother changes in levels of noise cancellation to deal with sudden spikes like sirens or car horns than their predecessors. They're quick to adapt to whatever we throw at them during our review, proving effective at softening harsher sounds while also dispatching lower-level rumbles.

You can choose from three levels of ANC: Quiet, Aware and Immersion (which involves Bose's spatial audio tech), plus you can add your own custom presets with the amount of noise cancelling dialled in to your liking.

In their Quiet mode, the buds suck all of the sound away, cocooning you in an eerie vacuum of silence. It might be a bit unnatural for some people, but if it's pure silence you crave, there's none better out there at this level.

"Noises across the sonic spectrum, be they clacking keyboards, chattering colleagues or cars beeping their horns on the street, simply dissolve into near-insignificance, with harsher and more intrusive sounds shut out even more effectively than before," we wrote in our Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) review.

So Apple has its work cut out, but it's coming out swinging, claiming that the AirPods Pro 3 offer the “world's best active noise cancellation of any in-ear wireless headphones". Fighting talk.

Apple claims that the Pro 3's ANC is up to twice as effective as the Pro 2's, and four times as effective as the original AirPods Pro. This is thanks to ultra-low noise mics and advanced computational audio, plus new foam-infused ear tips for greater passive noise isolation (i.e. better blocking of your ear canal).

In our review, we found the ANC a step up from the AirPods Pro 2's, and that was true across the frequency range, and it deals with sudden loud 'spikes' of noise just as well too. The Adaptive and Transparency modes blend the outside world and your music in a natural, non-mechanical manner, too.

The effect was also pleasingly consistent with that of their predecessors. "As we found with the Pro 2, we really like the natural, airy way that the Pro 3 employs its noise-cancelling. We are a little more aware of the more powerful ANC effect being employed in the Pro 3, but it never feels overbearing."

It's certainly a more natural effect than the Bose, but not quite as effective. Bose Ultra 2 are simply able to cut out even more noise across the frequencies compared with the AirPods Pro 3, which are good enough for daily use.

If it's complete silence you crave, however, you can't top the Bose. But if you find the 'vacuum' effect a bit much, the Pro 3's airier feel will suit you better.

**Winner: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)**

Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen): sound

Sound quality makes or breaks a pair of earbuds, so we were a little surprised that the latest Bose buds don't have a new driver. Rather, Bose fine-tuned the audio to improve the bass response and smooth out higher frequencies, something that sounded like it might not be enough to keep up with more 'ambitious' rivals.

However, it worked out well, offering a noticeable boost in sound quality over the first-gen models.

The 2nd Gen Ultra Earbuds reach "impressive new depths while retaining the requisite tautness and agility of their lower-end reproduction," we wrote in our review.

"Mournful strings plunge deeper than before, but across all frequencies there's satisfying body and texture to notes that goes beyond what the original QC Ultra Earbuds could muster.

"It’s a clearer performance, too, and improved levels of crispness help to delineate where each note starts and finishes with a sharper, keener focus."

The newer buds sound richer and whatever we throw at them, we're impressed with how composed, full-bodied and punchy the second-gen buds sound.

Given that the original QC Ultra Earbuds were five-star performers, it seems a little tweaking was all that was needed.

For the AirPods Pro 3, Apple is sticking with the same H2 chip as their predecessors, but has looked at other ways of tweaking the sound quality.

Apple is touting a new multiport acoustic architecture that controls the airflow that carries sound into the ear. Along with next-gen Adaptive EQ, we are promised deeper bass and a widening of the soundstage so you can hear every instrument in a track. Apple also claims to bring "vivid vocal clarity to higher frequencies".

In our AirPods Pro 3 review, we found them to be "clearer and more detailed... more spacious-sounding and more dynamic" than their predecessors. They're well-judged tonally, and their neutral sonic balance works well across a range of genres, as our eclectic listening proved:

"There is bite and attack to the crunchy, brash highs of Fontaines D.C.’s Starburster, while the basslines in Forgot About Dre are taut, agile and tuneful, and punch with quite a good deal of depth and power in Billie Eilish’s Blue," we noted.

In comparison, we rank the AirPods Pro 3 above the Bose in terms of sound quality. They're more balanced across the frequencies, more rhythmically cohesive, and even more precise and detailed. Voices especially sound far more detailed, natural and focussed than with the Bose.

The Bose are punchy and entertaining, with a rich and full-bodied bass, but the AirPods are clearer, more precise and more agile. You'll certainly get a lot of entertainment value from the Bose, but the AirPods take this round.

** Winner: Apple AirPods Pro 3 **

Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen): verdict

Two five-star pairs of earbuds, but which is best? It really depends on your priorities.

The Bose have the better fit for most people, and the more effective noise cancellation (though note that not everyone likes the extreme feeling of having the sound sucked out of their ears). The AirPods are cheaper, have a longer battery life and have the more natural-feeling ANC. Though of course, if you have an Android device, a lot of the AirPods features won't work and you would be better off with the Bose.

Neither pair is light-years ahead of their predecessor, but Apple has made the bigger step up in the most important area: sound quality.

**Winner: Apple AirPods Pro 3**

MORE:

Read our Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) review

And our Apple AirPods Pro 3 review

AirPods Pro 3 vs Sony WF-1000XM5: which are better?

If you've been thinking about investing in some of the best cheap headphones, you may be considering the multiple What Hi-Fi? Award winning, five-star Sony WF-C700N.

And while we'd normally recommend the newer Sony WF-C710N buds, which have taken everything we know and love about their predecessors and cranked it up a notch, we'd opt for the older model if you're looking to save money as a very enticing deal live right now.

Specifically, the C710N are just £84 right now, which is an excellent price, but when you compare it to the WF-C700N for just £60 at Amazon, it's a seriously close call which you should get.

So much so, that if you need a set now and don't want to wait for the C710N to drop any lower (and they haven't done yet), then we'd actually recommend picking up the discounted C700N while stocks last.

Sony dominates a wildly competitive sector when it comes to the best wireless earbuds and the WF-C700N are a clear demonstration of the brand's talent in crafting excellent-sounding buds.

But, while the C700N lost the top spot on our list, since the newer WF-C710N hit the market, they're still a solid pick, especially if you're looking to save on price (plus, they're still the best headphones for exercise).

The C700N are back-to-back What Hi-Fi? Award winners for a multitude of reasons and those still remain true today.

They're incredibly comfortable, they offer refined presentation, detailed, dynamic and musical sound and they're lovely to use.

Feature-wise, the C700N boast decent active noise-cancelling, as well as Bluetooth Multipoint and Adaptive Sound Control which allows the buds to automatically switches listening modes depending on your location.

Plus, Sony's DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine) can be turned on (and we suggest you do) to upscale low-res digital audio files to higher quality.

And when it comes to sound, we said in our full review: "There’s a fantastic sense of power and drive on display that grabs your attention and hooks you into the song. But it’s not all about the bass. The WF-C700 still favour a balanced presentation overall."

Each step up in Sony's range understandably offers a step up in performance to justify each model's price and position in the category.

But if you don't fancy spending more on the newer model right now, the C700N are still a fantastic alternative and they'll only cost you £60 at Amazon. A win-win.

MORE:

Read our full Sony WF-C700N review

Best cheap headphones 2025: great music quality on a budget

Best headphones 2025: tested by our experts

Noble Audio has announced its new flagship in-ear monitors, the Kronos, with a price point that's firmly in cavernous-pocket territory.

Launching at $4500 / £4100 / €4750 (Australian pricing and release date are currently unavailable), the Kronos represents an evolution of Noble's limited-edition Chronicle model, originally created for the company's 10th anniversary.

According to Noble, strong demand from collectors prompted the company to develop this production version, with refined specs and premium materials.

The latter centres around precision CNC-machined titanium shells, paired with some rather funky, eye-catching titanium damascus faceplates – an exotic material choice compared to more conventional aluminium or resin materials found in most high-end IEMs.

It goes some way to explaining the price tag, at least.

Under the hood, Noble has engineered a complex nine-driver hybrid configuration within each earpiece, utilising a six-way crossover network with precision-matched drivers.

The system incorporates two dynamic drivers (7mm bass, 10mm sub-bass), a dual-membrane bone conductor, four Knowles balanced armatures covering mid and high frequencies, plus two Sonion electrostatic drivers handling ultra-high frequencies.

Noble states that this setup achieves sub-35 ohm impedance, ensuring compatibility with smartphones alongside dedicated digital audio players and portable amplifiers. The design also includes an integrated stainless steel wax guard for durability.

Each unit is hand-assembled, with individual driver matching by Noble's in-house team.

The package includes a custom hybrid cable featuring palladium-plated pure silver and OCC silver conductors, terminated with 4.4mm balanced connectors with a titanium yoke design and 2-pin connectors. A premium case and accessories are also supplied.

Overall, the Kronos represents the company's most ambitious pricing strategy to date, costing many times more than our current recommended pair of high-end earbuds – the Sennheiser IE 900.

Naturally, we’ll have to reserve judgement on its price-to-performance ratio until we get a chance to take it for a spin ourselves.

MORE:

Best wired earbuds: top choices tried and tested by our experts

Noble Audio’s eye-catching premium wireless earbuds are inspired by Mozart’s swanky coat

These are the best wireless earbuds around

Stellar sound and a great price make for a winning combination. Affordable wired headphones don't come much more entertaining than the Grado SR80x, an Award-winning pair of over-ears that we've continually praised for their entertaining, punchy sound and class-leading insight at this level.

The SR80x were always great value at their £130 test price, but a £30 drop to just £99 at Peter Tyson and Richer Sounds is a hugely tempting deal.

Best Grado wired headphones deal

You can't really miss with the Grado SR80x, especially at this deal price that brings these open-back wired headphones under £100. The outstanding SR80x are well worth a place on your shortlist if your main priorities are sound, sound and sound.

Sure, the aesthetics won't be for everyone. You might not like their industrial look, or their on-ear design, or the fact that, as an open pair of cans, they leak sound like a sieve. That's all perfectly understandable, but if you're looking for a pair of headphones to enjoy at home rather than on your commute, then these Grados are worth considering.

With these wired Grados, it's all about sound. If entertainment and musicality are what you seek, we can't think of another open-back rival that can better the SR80x at this price.

As we said in our review: "Everything we like about their (SR80) predecessors – their nimble-footedness, expressive, rolling dynamics, and insight across well-defined frequencies – has been inherited, and the punch and panache that have made the Prestige models such born entertainers are very much also part of the SR80x’s sonic signature".

You've even got a choice of retailers for this £30 off deal. Check them out at Peter Tyson or Richer Sounds.

MORE:

Check out the best headphones money can buy

Pick up a bargain with the best headphones deals

6 test tracks we've been playing in the What Hi-Fi? listening rooms this month

Attention, Apple fans! We know you want the latest AirPods out at the moment, and we know that you don't want to pay full whack to get them. It's a good job we're out there hunting for deals all year round, then, isn't it?

The AirPods 4 with ANC are Apple's latest wireless earbuds, and they have just dropped from £179 to just £149 at the EE Store, a fall of £30. It's a limited-time deal, though, so warm up those hamstrings and prepare to sprint towards a discount that won't be around for ever.

Best AirPods 4 with ANC deal

The Apple AirPods 4 with ANC are the newest ‘standard’ AirPods on the market, and while they may not be quite as sonically capable as the five-star AirPods Pro 2, the fourth-gen buds are clever, comfy and built for iOS users.

Despite their open design, in which the buds avoid digging deep into your ear canal, the AirPods 4 offer surprisingly effective noise cancelling. We didn't think an open design would work that well with ANC, but the results are outstanding when tackling low-level noises.

The fourth-gen Pods are equipped with personalised spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, as well as clear voice call capabilities and hands-free gesture controls. Battery life, meanwhile, clocks in at a solid 30 hours with the charging case, which should keep most users satisfied at this price.

Sonically, the AirPods 4 with ANC have a similar balance to the flagship Pro 2, serving up pleasing levels of clarity and detail while excelling with mid-range vocal passages. They are not quite as dynamic as the Pro 2, but we’re still impressed by the snappy, engaging performance the fourth-gen buds provide.

Grab a pair at EE if you're interested, Apple fans.

MORE:

The best AirPods deals 2025: big savings on all Apple headphones

These are the best wireless earbuds you can buy

JLab Go Pop+ review: cheap, but how cheerful?

Talk about great timing. We’ve only just revealed our glowing verdict on the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) and we’ve already spotted a deal that will knock 10% of the asking price.

It’s not quite as straightforward as just putting the earbuds in your basket and hitting the buy button, though. You’ll need to trade in a pair of old headphones and use the promo code BOSETRADEIN10 on the John Lewis site to bag the saving.

Thankfully, the John Lewis site says that you can trade in “any old headphones” so, by the sound of things, they don’t have to be a specific vintage or make, which is good news if you want to take advantage of this offer.

This means you’ll knock the best part of £30 off the Bose, which currently cost £300 (well, £299.95 to be precise), bringing them down to around the £270 mark on John Lewis.

Bose has been at the top of its game and consistently among the best noise-cancelling earbuds for a while now. And its latest premium buds are arguably its best to date.

With the QC Earbuds (2nd Gen), Bose has refined an already successful package making tweaks to sound quality, call quality and ANC to produce a hugely compelling package.

As we said in our Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) review, “Their outstanding noise-cancelling capabilities, excellent design and a punchy, entertaining sound make for a powerful combination”.

With those words, it’s fair to say we are big fans. From the moment you slip them into your ears, they feel like a quality product. Build quality and comfort levels are on point, as is the user experience, thanks to intuitive touch controls and a clever app which allows a good level of customisation.

They support AAC, SBC and aptX Adaptive codecs, while features like Bluetooth Multipoint and the company’s own Immersive Audio tech (Bose’s take on spatial audio) also make a return.

Noise-cancelling and call quality get a boost for the 2nd Gen model. Talking about the former, in our review, we said, “Bose’s flagbearers remain in a class of one” – their ability to block out outside noise is hugely impressive, while call quality is clearer and background noise is better obstructed through these than their predecessors.

Battery life could be better than the claimed six hours, but it’s not out of the ordinary at this level, while the charging case (which is now wireless) brings another three charges’ worth of power to the party.

There’s no shortage of competition at this level, but as we said in our review, their “craftily balanced sound, replete with ample detail and impressive cohesion, doesn’t lag too far behind”

We said “across all frequencies there’s satisfying body and texture to notes that goes beyond what the original QC Ultra Earbuds could muster” and “that improved clarity is complemented by a newfound richness and authenticity to the newer buds’ presentation”.

It’s fair to say we think they’re a step up on their predecessors and, given their relative newness, this 10% saving at John Lewis is most definitely music to our ears.

MORE:

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) vs QC Ultra Earbuds (1st Gen): which noise-cancelling buds are better?

Sony WF-1000XM6: release date and price predictions, plus 6 features on our wishlist

Our pick of the best wireless earbuds you can buy

Amazon Prime Day is still a few days away, but I've already spotted a pretty tempting saving on one of our favourite five-star pairs of wireless earbuds.

The Sony WF-1000XM5 have been one of our go-to recommendations for quite some time now, and the black finish is now available for £189 over at Amazon. This price isn't a million miles away from their lowest ever price of £175 and still represents a very healthy £84 saving.

Now, obviously, you can go ahead and buy now if you feel the urge to get the deal done, but this might be one product that is destined to dip a little further when Prime Day actually kicks off on Tuesday, 8th July.

Best Sony WF-1000XM5 wireless earbuds deal

The Sony WF-1000XM5 are still among the best wireless earbuds in town, despite being around three years old.

Other flagship rivals have been and gone, yet the Sonys are still there, mixing it up with the very best of Bose, JBL, Technics and more.

The XM5 support Sony 360 Reality Audio, Multipoint Bluetooth, Adaptive Sound Control and the brand's handy Speak-to-Chat feature. The responsive touch controls are also flexible, allowing you to change volume and sound modes simultaneously.

Battery life is eight hours from a single charge, with the carry case adding an extra 16 hours to the equation.

In our Sony WF-1000XM5 review, we said, "There’s an openness which we haven’t really heard from wireless earbuds at this level before, and the definition and texture that shines through is quite exceptional".

Their sound is balanced and cohesive, with the Sonys boasting a superb sense of timing and rhythmic drive.

Now £189 at Amazon isn't the lowest price we've spotted the Sony WF-1000XM5 at. They hit £175 back in December last year, and I honestly wouldn't be surprised to see them drop this low long-term, possibly starting on Amazon Prime Day, which runs from the 8th July to the 11th July.

Could they drop even lower? We'll have to wait and see.

MORE:

Our pick of the best wireless earbuds for every budget

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds vs Sony WF-1000XM5: which are better?

AirPods Pro 3: everything we know so far and 5 features we want from Apple's next flagship wireless earbuds

Whether you are a casual music lover or a hardcore audiophile, most of us are guilty of buying a new pair of headphones or wireless earbuds when we know there are old ones gathering dust in a drawer.

But there is a way of putting them to use after they have stopped being an item we reach for every day, as we discovered talking to JLab.

Why does it matter?

Recycle Your Electricals reports that if we all recycled our small unwanted electricals instead of binning them, we could save 7.98 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.

Electronics can be filled with hazardous chemicals such as lead, mercury and cadmium. So, when we simply throw them out, they are ending up in landfills and potentially leaking into our water supply and ecosystem.

In an effort to make recycling more accessible, headphone brand JLab has introduced a scheme where customers can take earbuds, headphones or speakers of any brand and "properly dispose of them".

Once you send the product to JLab, you will also get a code to save 50 per cent on the company's website.

Founder of the Circular Design Institute, Elaine Butler, told us that electronic companies, "need to design their products to be easy to repair and upgrade".

She added that this is achieved by, “making goods easy-to-disassemble, which would have the knock-off benefit of also making it easier to fully recycle all components of their products at the end of their working life".

We spoke to CEO of JLab, Win Cramer, to learn more about the company's programme.

Humble beginnings

Cramer tells us that when the scheme was put in place around ten years ago, the company was still relatively unknown.

“As electronics were becoming more and more part of our day to day lives, we could see stuff being thrown away within our own offices,” he says.

“We were like, holy cow, this could be a problem. How can we help the environment in any way we can?”

For JLab, it offered a dual incentive as it gave customers a place to put their unwanted technology as well as giving them a reason to come to the company in the first place.

In the early days of the scheme, the idea was that customers could give in their headphones and they would be sold again, but the brand found that people don't like used headphones.

“It’s kind of like how people don’t like used shoes,” says Cramer. “We would get so much waste out of the headphones that we were repairing and that would then go in the trash.”

Making something new

Now JLab works with three or four different recycling organisations who take in the goods to their returns warehouses.

If a product is truly broken, the disassembly process begins: “We send plastics to our plastic recyclers, and PCB boards to our PCB recyclers."

Magnets are sent back into the supply chain, because those can be reused relatively quickly.

JLab also buys some of these recycled materials to go back into the company's supply chain. Cramer says that 20 to 40 per cent of their products are made from recycled plastics.

In terms of the right to repair laws we mentioned earlier, Cramer says there are upcoming plans to be announced at CES 2026 that will clarify how the company will meet the European targets.

“Products will be designed to, in theory, last longer if the individual is willing to put the effort in to repair it," he tells us.

Customers will be able to repair the drivers, cases and headphones themselves to make the product last longer. Batteries will also be replaceable, a key feature considering it is often the first component to die.

Cramer adds with a slight smile: “What I like is everyone has some skin in the game, we are all part of the world.”

It's certainly promising to see more electronics companies taking steps to make our products last longer, as well as making it easier to dispose of them properly.

But how does this play out in practice? We want to know how you dispose of your electronics when they have reached the end of their lives. Drop a comment below!

MORE:

Check out the best wireless headphones we recommend

And here are the best over-ear headphones

Looking for the best headphone deals? We've got you covered

UPDATE: This article originally stated that 2.8 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions would be saved if we all recycled our small unwanted electricals instead of binning them.

Recycle Your Electricals contacted us after publication to say that the most recent number is now 7.98 million tonnes and we have updated the article to reflect that.

You might never have heard of Austrian Audio, but in the eight years it has been around, it has managed to pick up multiple five-star ratings and even What Hi-Fi? Awards. Suffice to say, it's a name you can trust.

One of its best products is the much-loved Hi-X65 open-back over-ear headphones. And thanks to a new deal, you can now pick them up for only £269 – £50 off the RRP and only £10 more than their record-low price.

We gave them an impressive five stars, calling them "strong performers for the money, delivering a fine combination of insight, sturdy build and comfort".

Tempted? We wouldn't hang around: at the time of writing there were only seven pairs left in stock. But if you're looking for excellent sound quality without breaking the bank, then the Hi-X65s are well worth a look.

The five stars awarded in our Hi-X65 review tell you how positively we feel about Austrian Audio’s range-topping open-back headphones. We love the insightful and clear presentation, the composed and controlled delivery, and the well made and comfortable design.

The headphones have the dynamic stretch to cope with the crescendos in Stravinsky’s The Rite Of Spring, and the composure to deal with the staggering instrumental complexity of the piece. This is a pair of headphones that never disappoints.

Detail resolution is crisp, clean, and precise, with a pleasing degree of punch on offer alongside taut and articulate bass. They lack a little exuberance, perhaps, but all things considered, they provide a truly entertaining listen.

It's worth noting that the Hi-X65 have an open-back design, which means a certain amount of sound will leak out. That doesn't hamper the listening experience, of course, but you might want to take it into consideration if you regularly listen to music around other people.

The 16 per cent discount brings them down to £269 and makes them a perfect fit for anyone looking to invest in their first pair of premium headphones or upgrade an existing set.

MORE:

Read our Austrian Audio Hi-X65 review

Here are the best wireless headphones you can buy right now

How to choose the right pair of headphones for you

Memorial Day weekend may be over, but there are still big savings to be made. Especially when it comes to great sounding wireless earbuds.

For just $199 at Walmart, you can secure an epic $50 saving on arguably the best AirPods on the market.

We think the Apple AirPods Pro 2 are the best wireless earbuds that the tech giant has made to date. And now, they are sporting the lowest price we have seen.

You don't see discounts like these on Apple products very often and we imagine it won't stick around for much longer. So, act fast!

The AirPods Pro 2 are five-star wireless earbuds. And we haven't been able to say that about a pair of Apple buds before. This flagship pair are smooth and intuitive with new updated features that prove they are worthy of your money.

The Pro 2 impress in pretty much every area of wireless performance, especially when pitted against their direct competition, the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC.

We're talking a longer total battery life of around 30 hours with the charging case and six hours on a single charge, as well as seamless use with iOS devices, superb voice-call quality and fantastic sound.

And the active noise-cancelling in the Pro 2 also seriously impresses us. In our full review, we say: “Background noise disappears to a mere murmur, whether that’s office chatter or the roar of train engines on our daily commute.

“It’s a comfortable, airy effect, too, and does a great job of letting you enjoy your music without much distraction from the world around you.”

Sonically, we praised the AirPods Pro 2 for sounding “really, really good” and we continue to stand by that statement when comparing it with the rest of Apple's earbud line-up. The audio quality in these buds adds weight, great detail and even greater dynamic subtlety.

It's a huge leap in performance for Apple, with a relatively affordable price tag. And that price just got even better – just $199 at Walmart. Seriously, grab it while you can.

MORE:

Read our full AirPods Pro 2 review

Check out the best wireless earbuds: tried and tested

Apple AirPods 4 vs AirPods Pro 2: what are the differences?

Sony's highly anticipated WH-1000XM6 wireless headphones were finally unveiled last week, and, perhaps unsurprisingly, Sony has knocked it out of the park yet again, delivering yet another candidate for our best noise-cancelling headphones list.

While the sound quality is, of course, paramount to the success of these new noise-cancelling cans, what's appealed most to me is the new form factor.

I'm someone who never leaves the house (or, more recently, the country) without my trusty Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones; yes, the ones from 2020. Even though they are now half a decade old, and two generations behind, I have never felt the need even to consider upgrading to their successors, the WH-1000XM5.

Why? Simply put, the XM5's design is a functional downgrade from the XM4 for me. For some reason, Sony opted to ditch the neat and sturdy folding design on the XM4 for a sleeker set of cans where you can only rotate the earcups to sit flat.

In turn, this resulted in a larger case that was more of a hindrance than a help. Don't get me wrong, the XM4 case isn't perfect, as you technically only fold in one of the earcups, but it was still a better design than the XM5.

More importantly, they can be folded into a super-compact ball when required, which I find handy when I don't want to lug the case around and would rather just stick them in my coat pocket.

So, how have the WH-1000XM6 won me over? Sony has seen sense and returned to a folding design with a new durable metal hinge that makes the cans both "refined" and "resilient", according to Sony.

The folding method to get the XM6 into its stylish case is almost identical to the XM4, and the magnetic clasp is a nice touch indeed. However, when needed, the headphones can be folded into a ball-like form – perfect for when I need to quickly stuff them in my pocket or throw them into a tightly packed rucksack.

This makes the latest iteration of Sony's legendary noise-cancelling headphones an extremely tempting proposition, as I now don't have to pick between performance and convenience.

That folding design, plus the upgraded noise cancelling, makes me think that the XM6 Bluetooth headphones could be a perfect addition to my carefully considered travel tech roster; an elite club of AV devices that I take with me for every flight or train journey.

There is the slight issue of price, though. The XM4 are currently an absolute bargain, dropping to just below £200 in recent sales, which is half the price of the comparatively pricey XM6 headphones.

For that reason alone, I'm going to try to squeeze as much life as possible out of my XM4s, but when the day comes that I have to retire my trusty travel companion, I know that the XM6 are likely my best bet.

MORE:

Read our full Sony WH-1000XM6 review

As well as our Sony WH-1000XM4 review

And check out our picks for the best wireless headphones

Beyerdynamic's DT 770 Pro X Limited Edition cans are set to become official members of the German brand's wired headphones family. Released originally in 2024 as part of Beyerdynamic's 100-year anniversary celebrations, the DT 770 Pro X Limited Edition were, as the name implies, only available in restricted numbers when they arrived early last year.

The wired over-ears are set to shed their 'Limited Edition' suffix and become a fully fledged member of the Beyerdynamic team "due to high demand" from the wired market.

Not much else is set to change aside from the name. The DT 770 Pro X will continue to employ the same dynamic Stellar.45 driver system as found in the established DT 700 Pro X, aiming to deliver "high-resolution sound reproduction" for home and studio use.

As before, the DT 770 Pro X come equipped with velour earpads alongside a 3m Mini-XLR to 3.5mm jack cable and a 3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter, but the 'Limited Edition' logo on the side of the cans won't be staying.

According to Beyerdynamic CEO Andreas Rapp: “We were blown away by the reception to the DT 770 PRO X Limited Edition. It was clear from the start that this headphone had staying power. By officially adding it to our product lineup, we’re meeting the needs of a new generation of studio professionals who demand both pristine quality and modern functionality.”

The pricing hasn't changed either: the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro X will cost a fairly reasonable £169 / $200 for a pair.

MORE:

These are the best wired headphones you can buy

Want wireless? Read our Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 review

13 best Massive Attack tracks to test your hi-fi and headphones

Imagine a typical rural vista. Rolling hills, the occasional shrub or hedgerow breaking up the undulating array of ploughed and furrowed fields, a healthy handful of docile white sheep dotting the landscape as the sun shimmers amidst a cloudless blue sky. Now imagine that you’re viewing that appealing bucolic idyll through a large window, a window that’s so spotlessly clean and transparent that you barely notice it’s there at all. All you can see are the hills, the fields, the sheep and the sky.

In our experience, Austrian Audio headphones tend to get closer to this ideal than most – precise, informative and resplendently clear in their presentation. Austrian Audio tends to produce cans that refuse to get in the way of your music, instead dropping back and simply allowing it to be as it is. No fuss, not much flavouring, just the musical facts.

While the relatively young brand has produced headphones that fly north of the £2000 / $2500 / AU$3500 mark – see the Austrian Audio The Composer – we’re very much in the sensibly priced realm with these Hi-X20 over-ears. They may not have a monster price tag, but from what we’ve heard, that sparkling Austrian Audio DNA flows just as strongly through their bespoke drive units.

Price

The Austrian Audio Hi-X20 will currently set you back £120 / $150 / AU$250, making them a reasonably affordable set of wired over-ear headphones. If you’re looking for cans from the same stable at a lower price, the hugely talented Austrian Audio Hi-X15 Award-winners could be yours for roughly £89 / $119.

The Hi-X20 do have a major price-comparable hurdle to overcome, and it comes in the form of the Award-winning Røde NTH-100 which, at the time of writing, will cost you roughly £109 / $150 / AU$189.

Build & comfort

With a few exceptions, if you’ve seen one pair of Austrian Audio headphones, you’ve seen them all. The Hi-X20 are very much of the same breed as their wired stablemates, sporting a simple, functional yet robust design that doesn’t offend the eyes, hands or heart.

What’s pleasing about the Hi-X20 is just how undemanding they are to wear and live with. Like the five-star Hi-X15, they’re lightweight and good-looking in a modest kind of way, with a rugged, plucky design which hints at a product that will go the distance.

The headband’s adjustable slider is easy to expand and contract without us needing to yank at the mechanism to get it to cooperate, whereas the cans’ effortless folding action has enough resistance to feel sufficiently well-made. Not all wired headphones at this level fold away, with even fewer collapsing down with such reliable eagerness as our test pair – for wired listeners who like to wander, it’s a big green tick in the Hi-X20’s box.

We don’t have much trouble with them while they’re clamped onto our head, either. The cans’ soft foam earpads are resistant to overheating as minutes of listening turn to hours, and the nicely judged clamping force grants enough pressure and weight around your dome to keep everything locked securely in place.

The Austrian Audio over-ears are equipped with a long 3m cable that ends in a 3.5mm connector, while a 6.3mm adapter is also included. This means you can plug the cans into portable music players, laptops and DACs as well as serious hi-fi kit at home. For when you’re on the move, you also get a lightweight carry pouch in which to store your headphones if you’re worried about scuffs and scratches.

Thankfully, such fear of cosmetic damage may be little more than a phantom menace. After a good few weeks of daily usage, including frequent journeys stuffed into a cramped work backpack, we’ve yet to notice a blemish upon the surface of our still-pristine sample pair.

Admittedly, we don’t dig our nails into the headphones’ exterior with the force of a lion sinking its claws into a gazelle’s rear end, but scratching a hand across the earcups, headband and connecting hinges has us struggling to leave any lasting mark or indentation.

With the exception of the high-end The Composer cans, the Hi-X20 use the same set of 44mm dynamic Hi-X drivers as found in the rest of the brand’s lineup of ‘professional’ headphones. Those drivers incorporate a copper-clad, lightweight aluminium voice coil and an advanced ring magnet system in pursuit of “high-precision sound” that melds “perfectly balanced” mid and high frequencies with a powerful, controlled bass response.

Sound

If you’re something of a wired headphones aficionado, it will probably take you the lesser part of five minutes of listening time to realise that what you have here is a typical pair of Austrian Audio cans.

In fact, you could have blindfolded us and clamped a set over our heads and, within mere moments, we’d probably have nailed our guess at the mystery pair’s provenance.

Detail. Clarity. Organisation. These are the words that spring to mind as we soon realise that the Hi-X20 are not the sonic outliers within the Austrian Audio family. Soundgarden’s Burden In My Hand pops up on Tidal as we move from track to track across sources ranging from a work Microsoft Surface laptop to our Astell & Kern A&norma SR35 portable player, and it’s here that we’re arrested by just how much information the lightweight cans unearth.

It’s not just that they pick out and fill in the core details with which we’re familiar; these are headphones that uncover subtleties that, if you’ve spent your life listening via low-rate wireless earbuds, you might not have even realised were there in the first place.

Through the Hi-X20, Burden In My Hand becomes a richly layered, strikingly poised rendition. To borrow from dear old Will Shakespeare, the music’s now a stage, and all the instruments have their entrance and exits: first Chris Cornell’s searing vocals, then richly reverberating guitar strings, then a few crisp hi-hats and bass plucks that, rather than meshing into the bottom of an amorphous sonic block, are distinct and separate without seeming entirely sonically detached.

Space exists around each instrument, allowing us to track the rise and fall of a note’s given lifespan thanks to the penetrating insight the crystal clear over-ears provide.

Pull out a heavy metal track and the Austrian Audios have the grip and weight to bring out the power of the guitars or the punch of the drums.

A natural sense of rhythm doesn’t fall by the wayside, either – the Hi-X20 reveal the sunny, funky flow of George Benson’s Give Me The Night before turning their hand to the thudding march beneath Alice In Chains’ Man In The Box.

Whatever you throw at them, these are exceptionally precise and revealing headphones for the money, putting you in the picture across tracks ranging from metronomic electronic house to contemporary art pop.

Note, however, that revealing really does mean revealing. The Hi-X20 are as candid as a tough-but-kindly therapist, and if there’s a flaw to be exposed, then expose it they shall. That forensic attention to detail works wonders for bringing out the bite of a guitar pull or the shimmer of a reverberating hi-hat, but if you’re listening to a poor-quality recording or using a mediocre source, the Hi-X20 won’t shy away from revealing it, warts and all.

They’re also slightly light in the bass, and while we’d call this lower-end leanness a mere character trait rather than anything approaching a fatal flaw, it may not satisfy the most committed of bassheads.

Their Røde NTH-100 rivals sit on the other side of that particular fence, going slightly the other way in providing a fuller, more ample lower-end signature and a generally more easygoing, undemanding appeal. The Røde are also more forgiving of poor-quality sources and recordings, making them an attractive alternative if you’re not planning on feeding your cans anything but the finest sonic cuts.

Verdict

For the price paid, the Austrian Audio Hi-X20 are deeply impressive. While the Røde NTH-100 are more forgiving and perhaps better suited to more general use, purists who crave an honest, detail-rich pair of wired headphones will adore the pristine, slightly analytical nature of the Hi-X20.

If you want to hear your music’s minutiae, from the good to the bad and everything in between, they’re exceptional performers for the money.

Review published: 17th April 2025

SCORES

• Sound 5
• Comfort 5
• Build 5

MORE:

Read our review of the Røde NTH-100

Also consider the Grado SR80x

Read our Austrian Audio Hi-X15 review

Best over-ear headphones: wired and wireless pairs tested by our in-house experts

The Musical Fidelity M2si amp might be a slight blast from the past, given we originally reviewed it back in 2019, but it's still a hugely competitive performer and up there with the very best stereo amplifiers at the money. And it's even more competitive now, thanks to a generous £320 discount at Richer Sounds for either the black or silver finishes.

Its current £479 price beats its previous low price of £499 from Black Friday last year.

To snap this deal up, you simply have to be a member of Richer Sounds' VIP program, which is quick and free to sign up to.

Anyone looking for a new mid-range amplifier should strongly consider the Musical Fidelity M2si. It was "one of the best amplifiers we’[d] heard below the grand mark" when our reviews team evaluated it back in 2019, and while this "superb all-rounder" and "terrific performer" is no longer best-in-class at its original £799 RRP (thanks to the Arcam A5), it's still an attractive proposition for two-channel purists.

Integrated amplifiers don't get much more stripped-back than this – the Musical Fidelity does without digital connectivity and both phono and headphone stages. But, this has allowed Musical Fidelity to concentrate solely on performance – and it shows.

The M2si simply offers the basics – a remote control, six line level inputs (including a tape loop) and a home cinema bypass option to help integration into a surround system.

If you're not aching for the extra frills, though, it sounds detailed as well as dynamically expressive, and presents music on an expansive, refined soundstage that has plenty of power and punch behind it, not to mention a hard-hitting bass.

"We play a wide range of music from grand orchestral scores from John Williams to Tracy Chapman’s understated debut set and The XX’s electronica and the Musical Fidelity never disappoints," reads our Musical Fidelity M2si review.

Here, truly great sound compensates for this amplifier’s comparative lack of features, and the £479 Richer Sounds deal makes it all the more tempting.

MORE:

Our pick of the best stereo amplifiers, reviewed and recommended by our experts

And the best phono preamps for your turntable

So your hi-fi has both digital and audio connections – which should you use?

In case you missed it, there was some huge wireless earbuds news from Sony this week.

After multiple rumours and leaks, the tech giant finally took the covers off its brand new budget wireless earbuds, the WF-C710N.

These new buds are the biggest headphones launch of the year so far in my book, not least because they are set to replace a current five-star favourite of ours, the WF-C700N.

Not only are they five stars, they’re also our reigning Product of the Year in the wireless earbuds category following the 2024 What Hi-Fi? Awards.

Sony sent our review sample in the post, and I was the first to pounce. In the past 24 hours, I’ve been taking the new arrival for a spin and have already made a handful of observations about the new mode, which I think might be of interest to anyone who’s been eagerly awaiting their arrival. So, without further ado…

The earbud design is different

Sony didn’t mention it in the press briefing we had before launch but the shape of the new buds is slightly different. From what I can tell from comparing the two in the flesh, the new model is a little more bulbous.

For me, this means they fill up the concha part of my ear a bit more than the WF-C700N, which still feel very small and dainty in comparison.

And so is the case…

Bulkier earbuds have translated into a slightly bulkier case too. The new case is squatter and taller than the case for the WF-C700N. The plastics used for both the case and earbuds feel smooth and solid to the touch and a step-up from Sony’s cheaper WF-C510 model.

First impressions of the touch controls are generally positive

The introduction of the touch controls has seen the shift from a convex physical button built into the outer part of the earbud to a concave touch-sensitive surface. So far I’m getting on okay with it.

The fact that the surface curves inward seems to help guide my finger into place a bit better and it feels a bit more precise than a flat surface. The new wear detection feature also seems to work well.

I’m a fan of the new finish

It’s not often you come across a finish that makes you a bit giddy, but Sony’s new Glass Blue colour is cool. Very cool. There was a fad back in the early noughties for transparent audio kit, and more recently I’ve seen transparent wireless earbuds from Beats and Nothing – but nothing that shows so much colour, and I think Sony has pulled it off.

What tech enthusiast wouldn’t be a fan of peering into the inner workings of their new wireless earbuds? Even the silicone eartips are colour-coded to match this new finish.

My only question is how the clear plastic fares over time, and will it show up scratches and bangs more than the other finishes available? The material on the WF-C700N might stand up to being bumped around in your pocket or bag better. It's something I'll keep an eye on.

Our review sample has a strange sonic quirk

I still need to listen to them more before I can make a call on their sound quality and active noise cancelling, but I have already stumbled across a little quirk, at least on this first sample from Sony. In the left earbud, I’m getting a sound which can only be described as a tiny, springy “boing”.

It tends to happen almost in time with my footsteps while walking or when I tap the earbud and sometimes when I move my jaw. It’s most noticeable when there’s no sound coming out of the buds, but it also intrudes when listening to podcasts. It happens with ANC on and in transparency mode, and is quietened to barely audible with both of these off.

It’s like the bud is generating the cable noise you get from a pair of wired headphones but, of course, there aren’t any cables rustling around here.

I’ve seen comments on some forums about a similar sound being heard when using other Sony earbuds in the past, so I’ve reached out to Sony, and we are getting a second pair in for review.

I’ll be spending more time with the earbuds in the coming days in the build-up to our review going online, so if you’d like to know anything else about my experience with the WF-C710N, let me know in the comments below.

MORE:

They’re official! Sony finally takes the wraps off its WF-C710N budget wireless earbuds

Sony WF-C710N: price, specs, features and everything you need to know about the new mid-range earbuds

Sony WF-C710N vs WF-C700N: what's the difference between these two pairs of wireless earbuds?

See our pick of the best wireless earbuds for every budget

Fiio has unveiled its new flagship in-ear monitors, the FX17, and they're not exactly short on drive units.

The new IEMs offer three types of driver, packing a single dynamic, four balanced armature and eight electrostatic units alongside a five-way crossover, combining to deliver what Fiio promises is a broad, wide soundstage and a detailed, natural sound.

Those electrostatic drivers tease "exceptional high-frequency extension" for handling the strains of upper-range reproduction, complemented by a quadrumvirate of two-part balanced drivers which aim for denser mids and more transparency than would be possible with electrostatic units alone. The single dynamic driver, meanwhile, offers a lightweight yet rigid design with reduced resonance and distortion for cleaner, clearer audio reproduction.

The FX17 strive for a minimalist aesthetic thanks to their curved exterior, with the IEM's ear shell cavity constructed using high-density, hand-polished titanium.

Included with the new in-ears are three swappable plugs. There are 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced options, as well as a USB-C connector with a built-in digital decoding chip and DSP which is capable of supporting hi-res audio files up to 32bit/384kHz PMC.

The FX17’s cable incorporates a gold, silver, and copper construction, all of which have undergone refinement in a bid to remove impurities, reduce transmission loss and further improve the FX17.

The Fiio FX17 are priced at £1399 / $1499 and will be available from April 14th.

MORE:

Amazon Big Spring Sale live: our TV and headphone experts’ real-time buying advice

These are the best in-ear headphones you can buy

This Quincy Jones-produced disco tune has become my go-to test track – and taught me a valuable lesson about hi-fi, too

Sennheiser is no stranger to the world of over-ear wired headphones, with the near-80-year-old company ensconcing music fans’ ears with cans both budget and high-end, closed-back and open-back.

The new Sennheiser HD 505 are another addition to its line of open-back headphones, aiming to offer a step-up listening experience for music fans that have graduated beyond the budget models.

Price

The HD 505 sit at the top of the HD 500 line, which has traditionally been Sennheiser’s most affordable ‘audiophile’ wired headphones range and already sports a few cheaper open-back models. Think of the HD 500 as a stepping stone to the more famed HD 600 range used by studio professionals and head-fi fans.

The HD 505 cost £230 / $250 / AU$450, and around this price you have a strong handful of five-star rivals, such as the Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X, the Austrian Audio Hi-X65 and the Award-winning Grado SR325x.

Build & comfort

The HD 505 design doesn’t stray too far from the recognisable Sennheiser format of a sturdy, minimal build and large, ovular earcups with a metal mesh grille. We note that the HD 505 follows a similar silhouette to the HD 620S (the newest member of the step-up HD 600 family) rather than its cheaper siblings in the HD 500 range, with the headband and the hinge where it meets the earcups looking slimmer and more elegant.

While the main finish of these headphones is black, the HD 505 have copper accents around the hinge and the edge of the earcups that add a splash of colour. Thankfully this copper accent isn’t shiny or garish at all; it’s a muted metallic finish that adds interest to these headphones.

The headband has a good amount of synthetic leather cushioning, while the earcup cushions are a soft velour. We were worried that the plastic housings around the earcup felt a little too light and ‘plasticky’, but this contributes to the headphones’ lightweight design – something that makes a huge difference when listening for long hours at a time. The HD 505 weigh 237g; Sennheiser’s rivals (even the more comfortable ones) typically clock in above 300g at this level.

Thanks to the overall lighter weight, we found the HD 505 to be very comfortable to wear during our testing, with the headband offering good support and cushioning. Our ears never got overly warm either, thanks to the roomy earcups.

There is ample headband adjustment, but how comfortably the headphones fit depends on each individual’s head shape – some on our review team found the headband and cups pressing down on certain contact areas of the head when first slipping them on, while others found a super-comfortable fit straight away. However, both camps reported that overall the headphones were pretty relaxed in wearing and didn’t feel any undue clamping pressure over long listening periods. Watching a full season of Slow Horses on Apple TV+ proved no trouble at all with the HD 505 on at all times.

If we had one complaint it’s that the velour earpads are a little too soft, meaning they give way a bit too easily. In comparison, the earpads on the Austrian Audio Hi-X65 offer a firmer and greater degree of cushioning, meaning there’s more padding before your ears start to feel the structure of the earcups, the latter of which can happen with the HD 505. The Hi-X65 feel a touch more robust and have slightly better weight distribution too, but they are a weightier and more functional pair than the Sennheisers. The Beyerdynamics feel noticeably heavier to wear as well.

The HD 505 overall feel durable and reliable, and Sennheiser makes spare parts and replacement ear pads to ensure the HD 505 last for as long as possible. The headphones come with a 1.8m cable – long enough for easy use with laptops and hi-fi equipment – ending in a 3.5mm connector with a 6.3mm screw-on adapter so it can be used with a wide variety of audio devices.

There is no in-line mic or controls with this cable, but you can purchase one separately, as well as longer cable lengths or even balanced options, for those who want it.

Sound

Being an open-back design, be prepared for the HD 505 to leak sound when listening at anything beyond whisper-quiet volumes – the main drawback of these very airy, spacious-sounding headphones. That means these cans are mainly suited to at-home listening, where you won’t disturb your colleagues with your questionable music or you won’t feel conscious about cranking up the volume.

The 120-ohm transducers inside the earcups have been optimised for delivering a “clear, analytic sound”, covering a frequency range spanning 12Hz to 38.5kHz. Sennheiser’s engineers have fine-tuned the drivers to ensure a “smooth lower treble response”, crucially without any of that treble-related fatigue that might otherwise lead to a taxing listen.

The drivers are also angled forward in the earcups to aid the headphones’ expansive soundstage, aiming to mimic the experience of listening to nearfield speakers in front of you.

We find that we can listen to the HD 505 comfortably loud without the music ever sounding hard or harsh. The top end is wonderfully smooth, with no undue sibilance or brightness – overall this is as easy-going a listen as you could hope for. Without the ‘boxed-in’ quality you get with conventional closed-back designs, songs have ample room to breathe and the scale of sound is pleasingly big.

The HD 505’s sound is balanced by a very clear and detailed midrange, while the lower frequencies are well controlled and have a good deal of agility and snap. You’ll get punchier, meatier bass performance from the likes of Grado SR325x and the Austrian Audio, but the Sennheisers remain an enjoyable listen with a wide range of genres. There’s decent wallop and a taut edge to the drum kicks in Fleetwood Mac’s The Chain, while they are dynamically adept at communicating the ebb and flow of music as well.

Voices in particular are delicately and subtly delivered, with Lorde’s vocals on Royals coming through with utmost focus and clarity, with an impressive amount of refinement at this level. The HD 505’s talent with voices is great for watching TV and films, too. Instruments flourish in a soundstage that is pleasingly airy and spacious, although a bit more texture and grit wouldn’t go amiss when playing Kendrick Lamar’s Humble and a frantic Shostakovich composition.

The Sennheisers have a decent handle on timing and agility, keeping pace with Lamar’s ferocious momentum. While we love the more upfront, rhythmic intensity of a pair of Grados, we can imagine the Sennheiser’s more laidback nature having plenty of appeal for some people.

We play music, podcasts and YouTube videos through our MacBook Pro, swapping between Audioquest DragonFly Cobalt and Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M DACs, and the Sennheiser headphones are accommodating with most sources and equipment we use them with. Unlike the Austrian Audio cans, the HD 505 aren’t particularly fussy with partnering kit or recording quality, so they can be plugged into any existing set-up, no matter how budget or basic your system is.

Verdict

Sennheiser has once again done what it does best: deliver a well-made, comfortable pair of headphones that convincingly show off the benefits of an open-back design. There is strong competition from rivals with different sonic flavours in this price range, but the HD 505’s lightweight design, coupled with their crowd-pleasing smoothness, ample detail levels and unfussy nature, will have plenty of fans.

First reviewed: March 2025

SCORES

• Sound 4
• Build 4
• Comfort 4

MORE:

Read our review of the Austrian Audio Hi-X65

Also consider the Grado SR325x

Read our Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X review

Best wired headphones: the top 7 pairs tested by our review experts

Brooklyn-based audio manufacturer Grado has announced the release of its latest pair of open-back headphones, the Signature S950. Following on from the release of the new flagship Grado Signature HP100 SE last year, the S950 are the second set of cans released in the nascent Signature line.

The Signature S950's earcup housings are made using Brazilian walnut which not only makes for a more lightweight construction (just 395g) but offers what Grado describes as a "relaxed musical presentation". Grado has used wood extensively across a number of its most recognisable headphones, including the GS1000X Statement, the five-star Grado RS1x and the RS2E Reference cans, so the incorporation of Brazilian walnut for the S950's ear cups is a return to familiar territory.

The Signature S950 use an incarnation of Grado's 52mm S driver originally designed for the Signature HP100 SE cans. When developing this new 52mm iteration, Grado strove to create a driver unit that would deliver "exceptional high-frequency detail, a smooth midrange, and powerful bass", all while keeping distortion levels at a minimum for a pinpoint accurate sound.

Each new driver deploys a paper composite cone paired with a high-flux magnetic circuit, as well as a copper-plated aluminium voice coil. When combined, Grado claims that the magnetic circuit and voice coil enhance the new headphones' dynamic reproduction while providing a "refined sense of space, soundstage, detail and imaging".

The Signature S950's updated headband includes 50 per cent more padding than earlier Grado models for extra comfort and features a stainless-steel band and adjustable height rods for customising your fit accordingly.

The new cans are equipped with a six-foot cable ending in a 6.3mm connector, while they connect to the headphones using 4-pin balanced mini XLR plugs. Grado is offering varying lengths of detachable cable options in the future, with 4-pin balanced XLR and 4.4mm balanced terminations available, granting users greater choice depending on their personal preference and the source being used.

The Grado Signature S950 will be available in March, priced at £2495 / $2195.

MORE:

Read our review of the premium Grado GS3000x headphones

These are the best wired headphones we've tesed and rated

Closed-back vs open-back headphones: which is right for you?

If you’ve perused What Hi-Fi?’s home cinema section, you’ll know we’re fairly big fans of Dolby Atmos – when it's done right.

To catch the uninitiated up, this is a form of surround sound that includes additional height channels to create a more three-dimensional sonic presentation. Dolby itself describes Atmos as offering a “dome of sound” experience, and that’s a pretty accurate summary of what it's like when it’s delivered properly.

What do you mean by "properly", you ask? Jump over to our best Dolby Atmos movie scenes to test your home cinema surround sound system guide and you’ll get a detailed breakdown of the best uses of the technology.

The short version is that Atmos is at its best when the director uses the 360 sphere available to them to do things such as replicate the sound of jet planes screaming overhead during a dogfight, or the terrifying footsteps of a monster creeping in the dark above its intended victim.

Trust me, once you experience it, you’ll be rushing to our best surround-sound systems and best Dolby Atmos soundbars guides to get a speaker set-up capable of replicating the experience in your home.

And while we mainly talk about Atmos for films at What Hi-Fi?, myself and the AV team can also confirm it’s great for sports, which is why we were delighted to hear Comcast will be broadcasting the Super Bowl with the tech for the first time this year.

This means that when Super Bowl LIX kicks off and the Kansas City Chiefs take on the Philadelphia Eagles at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans at 11.30pm GMT / 6.30pm ET / 3.30pm PT / 10.30am AEDT on Monday, Xfinity TV customers will be able to hear it in Atmos.

Cards on the table, I’m not a huge NFL fan. So much so that my only connection to it is the fact that our staff writer Lewis Empson (a Swifty), is excited one of his favourite pop stars will be there. But others, including our Deputy Editor, Andy Madden, are cautiously excited. Why cautiously? Because, like movies, Atmos sports can be very hit-and-miss in their Atmos implementation.

There are three big reasons for this.

The first stems from the fact that, like films, having an Atmos signal doesn’t guarantee the audio will be good.

Done badly, Atmos can even distract rather than aid the experience. This has been the case in certain sports, including F1. The sport’s fundamentally quite flat, soncially speaking, with all the action happening on a level track. The streams we've seen with Atmos also didn’t include much in the way of crowd noise from the stadium, so even though it was an Atmos signal, the experience didn’t feel much more immersive than standard surround sound.

The best experiences are when the added height channels are used to make you feel as though you’re in the stadium, or on the pitch hearing what the players on screen are saying. The best examples of this tend to come from Premier League matches on Sky Sports, TNT and Amazon Prime Video, where the added sound of the crowd cheering, or jeering, adds to the immersion and helps the match take on a character you simply don’t get with regular sound.

This brings me to our second complication – the venue. Recording live events is an art, which is why bands pay such attention to where they play and how live records are made. The acoustics of an arena are all different, and capturing sound in them needs to be tailored for the best results. This remains true with sports.

The recording and broadcast need to be optimised for the stadium and, even when it is, some venues have better acoustics than others – which is why Atmos performance varies massively, even when watching the Premier League on the same streaming platform, on a match-to-match basis.

Then, third and finally, there’s your home speaker set-up. Having reviewed more Atmos soundbars and packages than I care to remember, trust me when I say they’re not all created equal.

Dolby Atmos soundbars in particular are a minefield. I’ve reviewed plenty that have the eARC connection required to recognise an Atmos signal and up-firing drivers designed to replicate the dome of sound experience by reflecting audio off the ceiling, and many offer very little by way of a sense of height.

That’s why myself and the What Hi-Fi? team spend so much time testing Dolby Atmos soundbars to ensure they deliver Atmos properly, rather than just recognising the signal.

To get a truly great Atmos experience with the Super Bowl, all of these factors will have to be dealt with. Which is why, while I’m excited to see more sports fixtures stream with the audio, I’ll wait until I actually hear it before singing its praises.

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Sony's latest budget buds have had their price slashed for the first time since Black Friday and we're unlikely to see another price drop like this for a while. For now, you can grab the yellow WF-C510 buds for £40.49. If you'd like the black or white alternatives, then they're also discounted, but not by quite as much.

The Sony WF-C510 are 2024 Award-winning wireless earbuds, gunning for value and sound-per-pound performance above almost all other considerations. That makes them a very attractive proposition at full price, and with £15 knocked off the price, the value they represent is nigh-on unbeatable.

Best Sony WF-C510 wireless earbuds deal

If you thought that the five-star Sony WF-C500 couldn't be improved upon, think again. The C500 were our favourite wireless earbuds for a good while, scooping multiple Awards in the process, and while they're still a great set of buds at an excellent price, the latest iteration of Sony's budget line has gone all-out on affordability and sound-per-pound value.

No, the new Sonys aren't that nice to look at or to hold, with a relatively cheap and inoffensive finish that doesn't live up to their predecessors. They're lightweight and plasticky, but that should come as a welcome surprise rather than a fly in the ointment.

Why? Because it means that Sony has spent all of its time and money on making the WF-C510 the best budget buds that they can be. They offer a total of 22 hours of battery life with the case included, as well as Bluetooth Multipoint, Ambient Sound Control (a bit like a sort of passive noise cancelling), on-ear button controls and even access to a five-band equaliser via the Sony Headphones App. That's not bad for a pair of buds at this price.

Sonically, the C510 are a departure from the C500. They're richer and more full-bodied than their predecessors, making the outgoing buds seem a little lean and small-scale by comparisons. The quality is all still there though, with impressive detail, clarity and more refinement than you're going to hear from any set of rivals at this level. They do trade off a little dynamic dexterity and agility, but the weight and scale they bring to your music will certainly have its appeal.

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Beats will unveil its next-generation Powerbeats Pro 2 wireless earbuds on 11th February, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The fitness-focused earbuds – which are expected to retail for $250 in the US (official pricing for UK and AU are TBC) – could represent a significant upgrade over their 2019 predecessor.

One of the most exciting features will likely be new heart rate monitoring capabilities, if MacRumors’ iOS 18 code findings are anything to go by. If true, this will be a first for Beats' audio lineup, with the site reporting that the built-in sensors on the Powerbeats Pro 2 will interface directly with gym equipment such as treadmills, with workout data seamlessly integrating into Apple iPhone's Health app ecosystem. Gym rats rejoice.

The Powerbeats Pro 2 will also apparently inherit the H2 chip from the AirPods Pro 2, suggesting substantial improvements to active noise cancellation and overall audio performance, which will be welcome news to all. This marks a considerable advancement from the original model's H1 chip architecture, as noted by Bloomberg's report.

Leaked imagery has also revealed a refreshed aesthetic, with a more streamlined profile and slimmer ear hooks, compared to the original design. The new range is expected to land in several colours according to leaked images from X Leaker Arsène Lupin, including an Electric Orange finish, alongside more subdued options in Jet Black, Hyper Purple, and Quick Sand.

While maintaining the sports-focused durability of their predecessor, the Powerbeats Pro 2 are also expected to offer enhanced battery performance and cross-platform compatibility with Android devices, including support for Find My Device functionality, as revealed in MacRumors' iOS 18 code findings. The charging case will also reportedly feature USB-C connectivity, which should come as no surprise given parent brand Apple's recent shift away from Lightning ports.

That’s all the information available for the Powerbeats Pro 2 as things stand, but we could see more info leaked ahead of next week’s expected launch, so stay tuned.

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