Sennheiser Cxc 700 Review | 93 Data compared

The Sennheiser CXC 700 ($319.95 list) is an in-ear, noise-cancelling earphone pair tailored for serious audiophiles, delivering superb audio performance and notable active noise reduction. Tested tracks revealed immaculate, distortion-free bass response and highly precise, crystal-clear high frequencies across diverse musical genres. Key technical highlights include a frequency range of 20Hz to 21kHz, an impedance of 32 ohms, and a unique three-mode digital cancellation system targeted at specific ambient frequencies. A standout functional pro is its passive audio playback mode, which allows music to continue playing with virtually zero loss in fidelity when noise cancellation is switched off. The device also features a helpful "Talk Through" button that instantly disables cancellation and mutes music for quick conversations. Despite its acoustic excellence, the hardware architecture introduces notable design flaws. Major cons center around the inline battery compartment, which houses a single disposable AAA battery instead of a built-in rechargeable alternative. This compartment is bulky, awkward, and heavy enough to yank the earbuds out unless secured to clothing using its attached shirt clip. Furthermore, the bulky unit completely lacks modern inline smartphone...

The Sennheiser CXC 700 active noise-canceling in-ear headphones deliver average performance tailored specifically for frequent air travelers. On the positive side, these headphones stay relatively within ideal frequency response limits, boosting bass and high-end sibilants which some listeners prefer. They offer functional active noise cancellation with an average drop in total sound pressure levels by over 19dB across three distinct modes designed for different environments. Additionally, they present almost imperceptible distortion and tracking shifts for regular users, prevent sound leakage to the public, and include a robust package with multiple tip sizes, adapters, a cleaning tool, and a carrying case. However, the headphones suffer from glaring design flaws, most notably a "brobdingnagian" in-line remote that houses the active noise cancellation electronics and a single AAA battery. This heavy and bulky unit presents a major durability risk to the exceptionally thin 3.93-foot cable and can pull heavily on the ear canals, causing physical discomfort or pain if not constantly clipped to clothing. Furthermore, the active noise cancellation unit paradoxically makes attenuation worse in certain frequencies compared to passive isolation. Because of...

The Sennheiser CXC 700 active noise-canceling in-ear headphones (MSRP $229) deliver solid overall audio performance, specifically tailoring their capabilities toward frequent airplane travelers. Reviewer Chris Thomas highlights several notable pros, including incredibly low distortion levels, three distinct isolation modes that drop outside noise to roughly 25% of its original volume, and a comfortable short-term initial fit. The frequency response is also a strong point for music listeners, featuring boosted bass and emphasized upper mid-tones that resemble an equal-loudness contour. However, the headphones suffer from significant cons centered around the massive, clunky in-line remote control unit. This disproportionately heavy remote tugs on the ear canals, causing physical discomfort if it is not actively clipped onto clothing. Additionally, the thin audio cables present notable durability concerns due to strain placed on the remote's solder points. Lastly, lab tests revealed a bizarre isolation quirk where using the strongest noise-cancellation mode actually degraded attenuation compared to standard passive sealing, likely due to a flawed destructive interference pattern pumping extra noise into the ears.

The Sennheiser CXC-700 wired, closed-back in-ear headphones provide high-quality audio with a warm, slightly bass-heavy sound profile and excellent sound isolation for private listening. Their compact, lightweight design makes them a portable option for commuting or sports. However, the headphones suffer from subpar active noise cancellation, failing to adequately block ambient chatter or engine rumble. Additionally, they lack inline playback controls and can become uncomfortable during extended use, limiting their suitability for long-term wear.

The Business Traveller review of the Sennheiser CX 3.00 ear canal headphones highlights effective passive noise isolation, a comfortable fit via four pairs of earbud tips, and a good, enveloping sound quality with crisp mid-range. The package includes a useful storage box and comes in multiple aesthetic options. Business TravellerHowever, the review cites significant drawbacks, noting an overbearing bass that often muffles the overall audio. Additionally, the headphones are deemed unsuitable for walking, as the tight seal creates a distracting thudding noise with every step.

The Sennheiser CXC 700 earphones are characterized by Trusted Reviews as a near-miss, offering a warm, detailed audio signature and a capable, three-mode active noise cancellation system designed for specific environments. They also feature a convenient "TalkThrough" mode for hearing surroundings without removing the buds. However, the review cites a, flawed, distracting treble hump and a bulky, poorly designed in-line battery housing as significant downsides. These design and sonic issues prevent the earphones from achieving top-tier status, failing to match the premium expectations for their price point.