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TECH FEATURE

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Classic headphones come in a variety of types and designs, and choosing the right pair that fits your needs, budget, and of course ears, is as simple as knowing how and where you’ll use them most, and the features you want. Words Scott Hocking A versatile addition to any audio inventory, headphones can be a than other designs and their big drivers (speakers) deliver top sound quality, punchy bass, and a wide sound stage. HEADPHONE HIGHLIGHTS In-Ear

rear to prevent sound escaping and external noise creeping in, and can have a deeper bass range. They are ideal for commuting and studio use when recording. Wireless or wired? Both have their own distinct advantages, but the answer ultimately depends on your lifestyle and personal preference. Wired headphones easily connect to devices using Bluetooth, putting an end to frustrating cable snags and tangles. Portable and often foldable, they can go anywhere – simply pair them with a phone to access your music. Look for a set with long battery life and/or fast charging support. Wireless headphones are a popular choice, but don’t write off the old school plug-in-and play wired variety. While wireless transmission is highly reliable, a direct connection means no dropouts if you move out of Bluetooth range. Moreover, audiophiles insist that wired headphones deliver the best sound quality, and gamers favour their lack of any audio delay. Some wireless headphones also include an audio cable for direct connection and extending battery life, giving users the best of both worlds.

constant companion at home, at work, while out and about, during the daily commute, or when gaming. Choose a pair that best suits your lifestyle. Modern cans pack a lot of clever tech into their earcups,

Should you favour a lighter pair with smaller earcups, on-ear headphones are the way to go. They sit on top of the ears instead of around them, providing greater

Over-Ear

On-Ear

airflow and comfort, but also let in more ambient noise than their over-ear counterparts. In-ear headphones fit snugly within

so consider the features that will serve you best. Noise cancelling (see page 10) and long battery life is

recommended, and the convenience to take calls, use voice assistants and multipoint pairing is also a plus, while touch-sensitive controls or physical buttons on the earcups comes down to personal preference. Many of the above features are available across a broad range of price points, along with various listening and connectivity options. All ears Over-ear headphones are the classic cans with dual padded earcups for comfort and reducing external sound. Ambient noise can be further blocked using noise cancelling. They are larger

the ears to seal the sound in and are ideal for travel and fitness activities. More colloquially referred to as earbuds, you’ll find a detailed rundown of in-ear advantages on pages 18–20. Around the back Open-back headphones provide greater airflow to reduce any air pressure that can affect sound quality, resulting in more natural and accurate audio. However, they don’t block ambient noise and there is some sound leakage, so an open back design is best suited for at home or private listening. Closed-back headphones are sealed at the

16 JULY 2023

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