STACK #189 Jul 2020

LIFE TECH FEATURE

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THE CLASSIC Embodying the classic design generally associated with headphones, the over- or on-ear versions offer complete comfort, significantly larger drivers (speakers) for better sound and, in some cases, noise cancellation to take you away from the hustle and bustle of life. The following are our picks offering quality and reliable performance.

Bose 700 If you’re talking design, the Bose 700s are the crème de la crème. Sleek and smooth lines, the soft touch silicone material that cover the ear cups and headband scream luxe. But it doesn’t just end on aesthetics – the touch control technology is second to none and amongst the best we’ve tested, with excellent response whether it’s raising or lowering the volume, skipping a track forward or engaging with the voice assistant control that supports Alexa and Google Assistant. There are 11 levels of noise cancelling, from full blocking and opening the door to full ambient sound. The 700s are rounded off with 20 hours of battery life and exceptional precise sound performance.

Pioneer S3 Entry level wireless headphones don’t have to mean a compromise on sound. These Pioneer on-ears have generous 40mm drivers, so you’ll be sure to catch all the bottom end of today’s chart topping hits. Pioneer has opted for a round rather than oval shape, which provides ample deep housing for acoustic formation. You will get up to 25 hours of continuous playback, with a 10 minute quick charge enabling an impressive four more hours of play time. A single button handles playback, hands-free calls and voice assistance. Users can also pair the S3 with two devices, so you can monitor calls on your phone while enjoying music from your laptop or tablet.

Nuraphone Melbourne-based Nura has designed a pair of headphones that combine both in- and on-ear headphones in one unit. The cups themselves have a soft gel earbud protrusion that fit neatly and comfortably right into your ear canal. Are you looking for deep audio customisation in your headphones? You’ve found it. Once connected via Bluetooth, the Nura app, through audio tests, learns how your ear listens to music and then offers a suite of options to personalise your very own hearing profile – get the music exactly how you want it. The Nuraphones also come with effective active noise cancellation (ANC) that can be deactivated using a toggle so you can hear your surroundings.

12 JULY 2020

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