Now that Skadi has added Factory Refurbished Bowers & Wilkins high-end headphones to its collection, it is worth knowing what makes a headphone great!
8 Key Elements a Buyer Should Consider When Choosing Headphones: A Guide
Customers often return headphones when they find them uncomfortable or unsatisfactory in sound quality, fit, or usability. Conversely, headphones that are lightweight, snug-fitting, and feature superior sound clarity and comfortable tend to become daily use headphones you can't live without. Let's dive into what you need to know from most to least important:
1. Driver Type and Size
The driver is the core component of headphones responsible for producing sound. Different types of drivers worth knowing—such as
- Dynamic
- Planar magnetic
Almost all headphones use Dynamic drivers good balance of sound quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
High-end headphones typically use Planar magnetic for their superior sound clarity, which come at a high cost. Typically upwards of 4 digit prices.
As for Size, the bigger the better. If you love music heavy on bass, consider headphones with larger drivers for the best experience. Nothing worse than underwhelming bass in rap.
The typical driver size for headphones range is from 20mm to 50mm.
In comparison, in-ear earphones are between 6 to 15mm. Radically different experience.
2. Frequency Response
Frequency response indicates the range of frequencies headphones can reproduce. A wider frequency response typically results in more detailed sound, capturing sounds that you perhaps have not heard before in your favourite songs on repeat.
Bass frequencies: Range from approximately 20 Hz to 250 Hz. This includes deep, low-frequency sounds like bass drums and sub-bass tones.
Midrange frequencies: Range from approximately 250 Hz to 4,000 Hz (4 kHz). This encompasses the majority of vocal and instrumental frequencies, including guitars, pianos, and most vocals.
Treble frequencies: Range from approximately 4,000 Hz (4 kHz) to 20,000 Hz (20 kHz). This includes high-pitched sounds such as cymbals, higher register vocals, and harmonic overtones.
For instance, the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e has a frequency response range from 20Hz to 20,000Hz which covers the entire range one would need.
3. Battery life & Charging speed
When choosing headphones, battery life is crucial for those on the move. It's essential to consider the playback length—how long the headphones can last without needing a recharge—especially for those who expect extended periods away from a charger.
Additionally, fast-charging capabilities are a significant advantage. A typical product listing often highlights both the playback duration and impressive features like 7 hours of playback with just a 15-minute charge.
4. Noise Isolation and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
Headphones that have Active Noise Cancellation (described as ANC) will be clearly stated in the product listing or specification as part of its important features.
5. Comfort and Fit - On-Ear or Over-Ear
Comfort is paramount for prolonged listening sessions. Factors such as ear cup design, padding material, and headband adjustability contribute to overall comfort. Be sure to note the wearing style before purchasing.
6. Build Quality and Materials
Durability is key to long-lasting headphones. High-quality materials like metal ensure longevity and also enhance comfort and aesthetic appeal.
7. Cable and Connectivity Options
Kind of a no brainer. Wired headphones for reliable audio quality or wireless for convenience. Bluetooth has advanced to be quite reliable in todays age, it is a matter of whether or not you are comfortable with wireless signals, however look for headphones that offer wired and wireless options (3.5mm Audio Jack)