EAR, THERE & EVERYWHERE

The world is far from short of choice when it comes to headphones of all shapes, sizes and prices. But how can you separate the magic from the meh? By reading our 16-page guide to the best sound-slingers around, that’s how…

AUDIO-TECHNICA ATH-WB2022

Some people might throw a little party for their 60th anniversary. Audio-technica decided a high-end pair of wireless headphones with a whole stack of technological highlights, plus some extremely shiny and carefully applied wood, would be more appropriate. And who are we to argue?

No two ways about it – AT has pushed the boat out here. Battery life of 9hrs is nothing special, admittedly – but after that it all gets a little more rarefied: 45mm full-range high-definition drivers with a DLC (diamond-like carbon) coating? Check. Multipoint Bluetooth connectivity with LDAC hi-res compatibility? Check. The world’s first headphones with a fully balanced output system featuring independent DACS, op-amps and batteries for each channel? Check, check, check.

And then there’s the construction. These ’phones are crafted from an intertwined blend of marbled maple, walnut and mahogany. It results in earcups that look as special as a high-class guitar body, with a lustre that will (according to AT) mellow and deepen with age, and with impeccable acoustic properties. On the inside, the earpads are Alcantara-covered memory foam for a feel that’s almost as indulgent as the looks.

Of course, it’s not as if AT has taken its eye off the ball where performance is concerned. Digital audio files of up to 24-bit/96khz can be handled natively, while bigger stuff is downscaled thanks to a pair of state-of-the-art DACS. Scale, drive and superior soundstaging can be taken pretty much for granted, as can ultra-high detail levels.

In fact, owning a pair of WB2022S is an almost altruistic act: not only do you get to listen to some of the finest wireless headphones around, but everyone else gets to admire them while you’re doing so. Price £2600 / go.stuff.tv/wb2022

Key specs

● Bluetooth 5.1 ● SBC, AAC, LDAC ● No ANC ● 9hr battery life ● 350g

STUFF SAYS It turns out AT knows exactly how to celebrate a big birthday ★★★★★