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We try three of the best over-the-ear noise-cancelling headphones
THERE’S never been a time when shutting yourself off from the world at large and taking yourself off to a sonic nirvana of your own making was more appealing. And there’s never been a time when looking daft with a pair of massive headphones on your head has mattered less.
That’s why this week we’re taking you on a short guided tour of active noise cancelling over-the-ear headphones.
We run you through three of the best. Time to ditch the tinny tiny earbuds and get some proper cans...
SONY WH-1000XM4
IT’S just you and your music. The easy way to enjoy less noise and even purer sound, with smart listening technology that automatically personalises your experience.
We say: These beauties are the new cream of the crop – they look great, and they sound even better. It’s hard to imagine a better audio experience from another Bluetoothbased set. A smartphone app controls all the essentials, allowing you to customise a lot.
On device, there are some intuitive controls for access to a number of audio options, and invoke the AI voice assistant of your choice. Sony’s are the ones to beat. Cost: £345
BEATS STUDIO 3 WIRELESS They say:
Real-time audio calibration preserves clarity, range, and emotion to deliver a premium listening experience. Noise cancelling continually pinpoints external sounds to block, while automatically responding to individual fit and music playback. We say: Beats have often taken a beating when it comes to audio quality, but these Studio 3s up the game. They’re comfortable, too. Offering a good 22 hours of listening time with the noise cancellation on, you will have to work hard to ever be without your tunes.
Apple’s W1 chip is inside, which means rock solid connection and unparalleled compatibility with IOS devices and the Apple eco-system. Cost: £299
JBL TUNE 750BTNC They say:
These wireless headphones feature powerful JBL Pure Bass Sound and active noise-cancelling for punchy bass and an immersive audio experience. The lightweight over-ear design offers maximum comfort and sound quality, while ready to travel everywhere you go. We say: A lot cheaper than they should be – these JLBS offer many of the features of much more expensive devices.
You get 15 hours of wireless playback with noise cancellation, but JLB have thoughtfully included an audio cable, so you can listen for twice that, if you’re not moving around too much...
Cost: £100