The Best Noise Cancelling headphones of the Moment
Here’s a look at some of the top noise cancelling headphones currently available, focusing on design, performance, and features.
Bowers & Wilkins PX8
The Bowers & Wilkins PX8 stands out as the luxury option in this comparison, boasting a design and finish reminiscent of high-end HiFi equipment – a hallmark of Bowers & Wilkins’ expertise. Details include aluminum accents and leather ear cushions. While the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is solid, effectively suppressing constant noise, it’s less impactful then competitors like Sony or Bose, allowing voices and fluctuating sounds to penetrate slightly more.
The PX8 prioritizes sound quality, delivering an impressively open, detailed, and musical experience with a rich mid-range and beautifully controlled bass. It aims for a true hi-fi experience rather than simply being a standard noise canceller.
In terms of comfort, the PX8 feels sturdy and luxurious, but its weight makes it less ideal for extended use during long flights or walks. Battery life is a solid 30 hours. It lacks some of the advanced software features found in competing models,but uniquely supports high-quality codecs like APTX Adaptive,enabling near CD-quality wireless audio with a compatible source. For audiophiles seeking top-tier performance in a premium package, the PX8 is a distinctive choice.
The bowers & Wilkins PX8 is available for approximately 366 euros at Amazon (for black versions), with other colors costing a few tens of euros more at various web shops.
Despite being on the market for some time, Apple’s AirPods Max remain highly relevant, notably for users deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem. The noise cancellation is still among the best available, effectively filtering out engine noise and ventilation systems, while suppressing voices naturally without creating a “pressure on the ears” sensation. the openness mode is unparalleled, providing a natural listening experience that almost eliminates the feeling of wearing headphones, with voices sounding clearly as if coming directly to the ears through a microphone.
The sound profile is typically Apple: powerful,spacious,and perfectly balanced. Deep integration with iOS devices unlocks features like Dolby Atmos with dynamic head tracking, which is especially immersive when watching films or listening to Apple Music’s Spatial Audio.
The design is unmistakably Apple, featuring aluminum earcups, a stainless steel frame, and a breathable mesh headband. This construction results in a heavier headset than competitors, which some users may find uncomfortable during prolonged use. Battery life is 20 hours, less than Sony or sonos offerings, but still practically sufficient. Smart features, including automatic switching between Apple devices and accurate speech control via Siri, make the max ideal for those already invested in the Apple ecosystem. While expensive and not the lightest,the AirPods Max deliver a class-leading experience and seamless integration.
The Apple AirPods Max are available at Amazon for around 500 euros for moast colors.
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