How to choose the right pair of headphones
It’s easy to assume headphones aren’t as important an investment as a new amp or a pair of speakers and that scrolling through a few online deals and reviews will suffice. We don’t think so. Follow our advice and you’ll be on the right path
Budget day Begin by using the primary component in your system to guide you. If you’re streaming lo-res files then expensive headphones will likely shine a light on the source’s deficiencies. Likewise, don’t expect a pair of entry-level cans to contour faithfully to the talents of your extensive and expansive home system. If they’re solely for home use, do they need to be discreet to the outside world? If sound leakage isn’t an issue, picking on- or over-ears with open backs, such as Grado’s SR325E, could deliver a more expansive sound. If you want to block out the world, noise-cancelling efforts such as Philips’ SHB8850NC and Bose’ Quietcomfort 35 could do the job.
Your search will probably throw up some wireless contenders such as B&W’S P5 Wireless, which don’t have noise cancelling. Most efforts work via Bluetooth but note that wireless headphones are likely to cost you more than a corded pair of comparable sound quality. Sitting comfortably When you’re trying out a pair of headphones, try to think not only about how they sound but how they feel. If you’re going to wear them every day there’s little point in torturing yourself. Sound is king, of course, but aesthetics must also be considered.
Shop around The easiest way to trial a wide range of headphones in one go is by going to ‘a shop’. A good dealer will know their products and might stock something better suited to your needs than you’ve thought of.
Take with you a few CDS, records or your personal music player and test the headphones with the music you’d listen to. You’ll know better how it ought to sound and be able to make a more informed judgement of what you’re hearing.
Finally, as we often stress, don’t make your pick in a dealership then scour for better deals online. If a dealer has helped, not only do they deserve the sale but you’ll want to keep that relationship strong for the next time you walk through their door. Shop online If you don’t have easy access or enough time to visit a dealership, the internet can be ideal. Use our reviews and buying guides to assist you and be open to any alternatives you happen upon. Above all else, don’t buy anything you’ve not heard for yourself. If you’re struggling for a local dealership, find a nearby hi-fi show or ask your mates if you can try their headphones. Reviews will help but they are merely an aid. You’ll never know exactly how a product sounds until you’re using it. And always make sure you’re buying from a trusted source.
Running start As with most hi-fi equipment, headphones need to be run in. Sound changes over time as the components bed in, so make sure the pair you’re testing in store has had sufficient play time.