Sennheiser IE 8i Review | 93 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£260
  • Form factor: in-ear
  • Connectivity: wired
  • Battery life: N/A hours
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Sennheiser IE 8i review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.0

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the headphones' quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best headphones on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

5.0

Technical Score

20.0%

?

User score

Good
5.0

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

4.6

Sound

20.0%

4.1

Features

10.0%

10

Design

8.0%

6.2

Connectivity

6.0%

1.0

Battery

4.0%

4.9

Calls & Controls

Good
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 2.1
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    0.0

    Audio latency

    25.0%

    0.0

    Low-latency game mode

    20.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    12.0%

    1.0

    Noise-canceling microphone

    8.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

  • 2.1
    Travel

    Score components:

    28.0%

    1.0

    Active noise cancellation (ANC)

    24.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

    18.0%

    10

    Weight

    16.0%

    0.0

    Multipoint support

    14.0%

    0.0

    Ambient sound mode

  • 2.7
    Calls

    Score components:

    28.0%

    1.0

    Noise-canceling microphone

    24.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    18.0%

    0.0

    Multipoint support

    16.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

    14.0%

    0.0

    Companion app

  • 5.0
    Workout

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    Weight

    24.0%

    1.0

    Water resistance

    20.0%

    4.0

    IP rating

    16.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

    12.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £260

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Sennheiser IE 8i is a high-end, dynamic driver in-ear monitor featuring a wide 10Hz–20kHz frequency response, a high 125dB sound pressure level (SPL), and a low 16-ohm impedance, optimized for mobile iOS devices with its integrated three-button remote and microphone. Its standout characteristic is a unique, manual bass-tuning screw on each earpiece that allows for customizable low-end response alongside a spacious soundstage and up to 26dB of passive noise isolation. Key pros include a rich, punchy bass performance, a durable user-replaceable cable, and an extensive accessory kit with 10 pairs of ear tips; however, common cons include a somewhat bulky housing, a proprietary cable connector that limits third-party replacements, and a sound signature that some find overly warm or lacking the ultimate treble clarity of multi-armature rivals.

Technical Specifications of Sennheiser IE 8i

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

?

Sound

20.0%

?

Features

10.0%

?

Design

8.0%

?

Connectivity

6.0%

?

Battery

4.0%

?

Calls & Controls

5.0
Sennheiser IE 8i has a technical score of 4.96 points, which is higher than that of 51.4% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
1.0
Sennheiser IE 8i has a popularity of 1 points, which is lower than 72.7% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.0

Overall score

40.0%

9.2

Price

6.2
Sennheiser IE 8i has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.2 points, which is lower than 74.9% of products in this category.
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

no
Sennheiser IE 8i does not support active noise cancellation. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Driver type
What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used
When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic
Driver size
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

9 mm
Sennheiser IE 8i uses a driver size of 9 mm, smaller driver size than 92.3% of headphones and equal to 2.6% of headphones.
Number of drivers
What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup
When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

1
Sennheiser IE 8i uses 1 drivers, equal to 96% of headphones.
Lowest frequency
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

10 Hz
Sennheiser IE 8i reaches a lowest frequency of 10 Hz, lower lowest frequency than 67.3% of headphones and equal to 12.5% of headphones.
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Noise-canceling microphone
What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls
When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Sennheiser IE 8i does not support a noise-canceling microphone. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
Can be used as a headset
What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.
When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sennheiser IE 8i is headset-ready, 84.7% is not. 15.3% of headphones can be used as headsets.
Number of microphones
What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

1
Sennheiser IE 8i has 1 microphones, more microphones than 25.9% of headphones and equal to 52.2% of headphones.
Boom microphone
What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity
When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

no
Sennheiser IE 8i does not include a boom microphone. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.
Microphone SNR
What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone
When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

?
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Connectivity
What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

wired
Sennheiser IE 8i supports wired connectivity, equal to 52.6% of headphones.
Bluetooth version
What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported
When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A
Maximum Bluetooth range
What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device
When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A
Audio latency
What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode
When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A
Multipoint support
What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices
When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
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Ambient sound mode
What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness
When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
EQ support
What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer
When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Sennheiser IE 8i does not support EQ customization. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
Companion app
What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates
When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Adjustable ANC levels
What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels
When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A
Voice assistant support
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

yes
Sennheiser IE 8i supports voice assistants. 39.2% of headphones support voice assistants.
Show more
Battery life
What it is: Playback time on a single charge
When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A
Battery life with ANC
What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled
When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A
Charging time
What it is: Time required for a full battery charge
When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A
Quick charge
What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period
When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Battery capacity
What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery
When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A
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Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Sennheiser
Form factor
What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)
When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

in-ear
Weight
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

18 g
Sennheiser IE 8i weighs 18 g, lighter than 86.5% of headphones and equal to 0.6% of headphones.
Acoustic design
What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)
When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back
Clamp force
What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head
When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
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Sennheiser IE 8i vs the average headphone

  • 91.7% lower weight
    Sennheiser IE 8i is lighter than the average headphone (18 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    What it is: Total weight of the headphones
    When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <150 g

    Sennheiser IE 8i is lighter than the average headphone (18 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.18 g vs 218 g
  • 23 dB/mW higher sensitivity
    Sennheiser IE 8i has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (125 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
    What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
    When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=106 dB/mW

    Sennheiser IE 8i has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (125 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.125 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • Direct 3.5 mm plug
    Sennheiser IE 8i includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
    What it is: Shows whether the headphones end in a built-in 3.5 mm male plug instead of relying on a separate detachable cable.
    When it matters: When direct wired compatibility with older devices or adapters matters.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sennheiser IE 8i includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
  • 8 Hz lower bass extension
    Sennheiser IE 8i has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
    What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
    When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=10 Hz

    Sennheiser IE 8i has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.10 Hz vs 18 Hz
  • In-line controls
    Sennheiser IE 8i includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
    What it is: Controls available on in-line remote of wired cable
    When it matters: When your wired setup depends on cable-mounted buttons or call controls.

    Importance: LOW

    Sennheiser IE 8i includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
  • 0.2 % lower distortion
    Sennheiser IE 8i has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
    What it is: Percentage of harmonic distortion in audio output
    When it matters: When cleaner sound reproduction matters at louder volumes.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <=1%

    Sennheiser IE 8i has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.0.1 % vs 0.3 %
  • 22 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
    Sennheiser IE 8i has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (125 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
    What it is: Output loudness level of the headphones, usually measured in dB. It helps compare how loud a model can play under similar conditions.
    When it matters: When you need a rough idea of how loud the headphones can get before you pair them with a weaker source.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=108 dB SPL

    Sennheiser IE 8i has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (125 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.125 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL
  • 15 dB higher max SPL
    Sennheiser IE 8i has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (125 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
    What it is: Maximum safe sound pressure level
    When it matters: When high-volume headroom is part of your use case.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=116 dB

    Sennheiser IE 8i has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (125 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.125 dB vs 110 dB
  • 91.7% lower weight
    Sennheiser IE 8i is lighter than the average headphone (18 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
  • 23 dB/mW higher sensitivity
    Sennheiser IE 8i has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (125 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
  • 8 Hz lower bass extension
    Sennheiser IE 8i has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (10 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
  • 0.2 % lower distortion
    Sennheiser IE 8i has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
  • 22 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
    Sennheiser IE 8i has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (125 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
  • 15 dB higher max SPL
    Sennheiser IE 8i has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (125 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
  • Direct 3.5 mm plug
    Sennheiser IE 8i includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
  • In-line controls
    Sennheiser IE 8i includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
  • Tangle-prone cable
    Sennheiser IE 8i uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
  • 31 mm smaller driver size
    Sennheiser IE 8i has smaller driver size than the average headphone (9 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
  • 6 years older release date
    Sennheiser IE 8i was released earlier than the average headphone (2,011 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
    March 2011
  • 31 mm smaller driver size
    Sennheiser IE 8i has smaller driver size than the average headphone (9 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
    What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
    When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sennheiser IE 8i has smaller driver size than the average headphone (9 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.9 mm vs 40 mm
  • 4.65x less popular
    Sennheiser IE 8i is less popular than the average headphone (1.00 vs 4.646).
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.
    When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
    Sennheiser IE 8i is less popular than the average headphone (1.00 vs 4.646).1 vs 4.65
  • Tangle-prone cable
    Sennheiser IE 8i uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
    What it is: Cable designed to resist tangling
    When it matters: When you often carry wired headphones in a bag or pocket.

    Importance: LOW

    Sennheiser IE 8i uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
  • 2.89x more expensive
    Sennheiser IE 8i is more expensive than the average headphone (£260 vs £90).
    Sennheiser IE 8i is more expensive than the average headphone (£260 vs £90).£260 vs £90
  • 8.3% worse value for money
    Sennheiser IE 8i has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.22 vs 6.736).
    What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.
    When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.
    Sennheiser IE 8i has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.22 vs 6.736).6.22 vs 6.74
  • 6 years older release date
    Sennheiser IE 8i was released earlier than the average headphone (2,011 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
    March 2011
    What it is: Official release or launch date of the model
    When it matters: When you want a newer model for fresher features, longer support life, or simply to avoid buying into an older generation.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=2020

    Sennheiser IE 8i was released earlier than the average headphone (2,011 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.2011 vs 2017

Graphic comparison of Sennheiser IE 8i and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Sennheiser IE 8i?

  • Adjustable bass response via a manual tuning screw on each earpiece
  • Exceptional soundstage that feels open, airy, and spacious
  • Durable build with user-replaceable signal cables for increased longevity
  • Generous accessory bundle including multiple tip types and a hard travel case
  • Includes an in-line microphone and three-button remote for mobile device control

What customers dislike about Sennheiser IE 8i?

  • High retail price compared to competitors offering similar performance
  • Bass can feel overbearing or 'soft' even at the lowest setting, occasionally bleeding into the mids
  • Unusual peaked treble (6.5-8kHz range) that can sound shrill or sibilant
  • Large, angular earpieces may cause comfort issues for users with smaller ears
  • Isolation from external noise is not as effective as some rival foam-tip models

Expert reviews

T
theheadphonelist.com
05/06/2013

The Sennheiser IE8 and IE8i are dynamic-driver in-ear monitors (IEMs) recognized for establishing that dynamic drivers can compete directly with multi-armature setups. Priced around $375 to $450, they feature a unique mechanical bass adjustment screw on the front fascia that allows users to alter the low-end performance. Their sound signature is defined by a massive, expansive...Read more

R
reviewed.com
21/03/2011

The Sennheiser IE 8i is a high-end pair of in-ear headphones designed with iPhone compatibility, featuring an in-line remote, a microphone, and a 3.94-foot detachable cable that allows users to replace parts easily to boost long-term lifespan. On the positive side, these earbuds offer high customizability with various silicone and foam sleeves, optional ear loops to redistribute...Read more

T
trustedreviews.com
08/07/2011

The Sennheiser IE8i earphones, as reviewed by Trusted Reviews, are highlighted for their powerful, energetic sound signature driven by exceptionally deep and taut bass. Key strengths include an expansive, live-concert-like soundstage, a user-replaceable cable, a generous tip selection, and added convenience through an inline remote and microphone for Apple devices. Conversely, the...Read more

W
whathifi.com
21/03/2011

The Sennheiser IE 8i wired earbuds deliver an impressive and highly detailed performance characterized by a punchy midrange and clear treble, making them an enjoyable listen overall. Designed with an over-ear, wrap-around style, these chunky yet lightweight enclosures offer users a highly secure and remarkably comfortable fit. A key differentiator for this 'i' variant is the...Read more

A
avguide.ch
12/01/2012

The Sennheiser IE80 and IE8i in-ear monitors deliver premium, audiophile-grade performance that positions them squarely in the luxury audio class. A standout pro highlighted in the review is the inclusion of dynamic drivers that yield exceptional punch and deep, powerful bass. Even when exploring demanding, bass-heavy musical segments like the fast-paced double bass drums in...Read more

A
avguide.ch
01/09/2010

This review from avguide.ch highlights that the Sennheiser IE80 and IE8i in-ear monitors differ primarily in design—the IE80 features a silver finish and lacks the inline cable remote found on the IE8i. A major pro of both models is their excellent ambient noise isolation, which effectively seals out environmental sounds and allows users to enjoy loud music on public transit without...Read more

L
lesnumeriques.com
25/02/2009

The review of the Sennheiser IE 8 on Les Numériques rates the flagship in-ear monitors 3 out of 5 stars, finding them to be a disappointing addition that fails to fully solve the flaws of its predecessors, the IE 6 and IE 7. On the positive side, the review highlights the excellent, well-integrated carrying case and the high level of wearing comfort. Because the earbuds do not sit...Read more

J
journaldugeek.com
12/05/2009

The Sennheiser IE8 is a high-end pair of in-ear monitors priced at around €250, featuring a unique dynamic single-driver technology instead of the multiple drivers used by competitors. The earphones deliver an impressive and wide soundstage with rich midrange and deep, powerful bass performance. They come in an elegant, rigid presentation box packed with a generous selection of...Read more

T
theheadphonelist.com
05/06/2013

The Sennheiser IE8 and IE8i are dynamic-driver in-ear monitors (IEMs) that firmly established dynamic technology as a worthy competitor to multi-armature setups in ultraportable hi-fi. Originally launched at a retail price of $449.95, these over-the-ear earphones feature an innovative bass-tuning system adjusted via a small manual dial on the front fascia. The review highlights an...Read more

Video reviews

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