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Ultrasone HFI 780 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£130
Form factor: over-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Ultrasone HFI 780 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.3

Good

4.8

Poor

7.3

Very good

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
0.9
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
3.6
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
3.2
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
3.6
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

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Verdict

The Ultrasone HFI-780 is a foldable, closed-back dynamic headphone featuring 40mm gold-plated drivers, an impedance of 35 ohms, and a broad frequency response of 10Hz to 26,000Hz. It is distinguished by proprietary S-Logic Plus technology for a natural surround sound experience and MU-metal shielding to reduce electromagnetic emissions. Main pros include its punchy, well-extended bass, high transparency in the mids and highs, and impressive isolation that mimics an open-back soundstage. However, notable cons include a high clamping force that can cause discomfort during long sessions, potentially harsh or sibilant treble at high volumes, and stiff pleather earpads that may lead to heat buildup.

Technical Specifications of Ultrasone HFI 780

Overall score

5.3

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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.

Sound

5.4

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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

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

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

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

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Calls & Controls

3.9

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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

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

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

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

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

N/A

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Connectivity

6.2

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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

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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Features

3.8

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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

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

?

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Battery

1.0

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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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Design

5.4

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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

Ultrasone

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

over-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

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

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Ultrasone HFI 780 vs the average headphone

Why is Ultrasone HFI 780 better than the average headphone?

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Spatial audio support
Ultrasone HFI 780 supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
What it is: Supports immersive surround sound playback
When it matters: When movies, games, and immersive mixes are part of your listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Ultrasone HFI 780 supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Ultrasone HFI 780 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
Ultrasone HFI 780 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
Ultrasone HFI 780 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
Ultrasone HFI 780 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
Ultrasone HFI 780 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
Ultrasone HFI 780 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
0.2 % lower distortion
Ultrasone HFI 780 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%
Ultrasone HFI 780 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 %
6,000 Hz higher treble extension
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (26,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
What it is: Highest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When treble extension and overall frequency reach matter to you.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=24000 Hz
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (26,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.26000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
Foldable design
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
What it is: Earcups or headband can fold for compact storage
When it matters: When you travel often and want easier storage in a bag.
Importance: LOW
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
2.8 m more useful cable length
Ultrasone HFI 780 offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (4 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
What it is: Length of the supplied audio cable
When it matters: When your desk, TV, or audio setup needs more or less movement range.
Importance: LOW
Ultrasone HFI 780 offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (4 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.4 m vs 1.2 m
Foldable design
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
2.8 m more useful cable length
Ultrasone HFI 780 offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (4 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
Spatial audio support
Ultrasone HFI 780 supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
8 Hz lower bass extension
Ultrasone HFI 780 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
Ultrasone HFI 780 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 %.
6,000 Hz higher treble extension
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (26,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Ultrasone HFI 780 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
Ultrasone HFI 780 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.

Calls & Controls

Why is Ultrasone HFI 780 worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
30.7% higher weight
Ultrasone HFI 780 is heavier than the average headphone (285 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
1.1 higher clamp force
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (5.4 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
Tangle-prone cable
Ultrasone HFI 780 uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
4 mm tighter earcup height
Ultrasone HFI 780 has tighter earcup height than the average headphone (56 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
6 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (96 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
14 dB lower max SPL
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (96 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
7 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (96 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
1 fewer microphones
Ultrasone HFI 780 has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
9 years older release date
Ultrasone HFI 780 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,008 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
March 2008
Fixed cable
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.
Importance: MEDIUM
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
30.7% higher weight
Ultrasone HFI 780 is heavier than the average headphone (285 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
Ultrasone HFI 780 is heavier than the average headphone (285 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.285 g vs 218 g
6 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (96 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
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (96 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.96 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
1.1 higher clamp force
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (5.4 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
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
Ultrasone HFI 780 has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (5.4 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.5.4 vs 4.3
1 fewer microphones
Ultrasone HFI 780 has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 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
Ultrasone HFI 780 has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.0 vs 1
Tangle-prone cable
Ultrasone HFI 780 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
Ultrasone HFI 780 uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
9 years older release date
Ultrasone HFI 780 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,008 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
March 2008
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
Ultrasone HFI 780 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,008 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.2008 vs 2017
4 mm tighter earcup height
Ultrasone HFI 780 has tighter earcup height than the average headphone (56 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
What it is: Internal height of the earcup cavity
When it matters: When larger ears need enough space inside the earcups.
Importance: MEDIUM
Ultrasone HFI 780 has tighter earcup height than the average headphone (56 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.56 mm vs 60 mm

Calls & Controls

Graphic comparison of Ultrasone HFI 780 and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Ultrasone HFI 780?

Punchy and clear bass quality with good sub-bass extension
Excellent imaging and instrument separation
Highly detailed and dynamic sound signature suitable for up-tempo music
Effective passive noise isolation due to a tenacious fit
Low impedance makes them easy to drive without a powerful amplifier
Foldable, compact design convenient for travel

What customers dislike about Ultrasone HFI 780?

High clamping force often described as uncomfortable or painful during long sessions
Sharp, piercing treble that can become sibilant at higher volumes
Stiff pleather earpads and headband cushioning that can cause sweating and heat buildup
Metallic or 'thin' character in the midrange, making some vocals sound unnatural
Prone to paint chipping on the earcups and perceived 'cheap' plastic build quality
Small or 'intimate' soundstage that may feel cramped for some listeners

Expert reviews

head-fi.org

05/05/2010

Ultrasone HFI-780 Reviews

The Ultrasone HFI-780 closed-back headphones are praised for their immersive S-Logic technology, delivering a wide soundstage with deep, punchy bass and excellent passive noise isolation suitable for gaming and music. These efficient, low-impedance headphones offer high-energy, detailed sound that is highly engaging without requiring an amplifier. However, the HFI-780 is widely...Read more

head-fi.org

27/06/2010

Ultrasone DJ1 PRO vs. HFI-780 thoughts - Head-Fi Head-Case.org

This Head-Fi review compares the Ultrasone HFI-780 and DJ1 Pro, noting the HFI-780 offers a "colored," fun sound with punchy bass suitable for fast music and portable devices. However, it features a narrower soundstage and requires a tedious burn-in process. Conversely, the DJ1 Pro functions as a, precise, reference-oriented headphone with a wider soundstage, greater depth, and...Read more

diyah.boards.net

02/05/2015

Ultrasone HFI-780 - DIY Audio Heaven Note: Please be careful with some newer reviews you might find online, such as the Major HiFi review, as they oft...

The DIY Audio Heaven thread evaluates the stock Ultrasone HFI-780 as a visually attractive but sonically flawed headphone that struggles to deliver a hi-fi experience out of the box. The primary pros highlighted by the reviewers are its appealing real-life aesthetic, strong structural sturdiness, decent passive isolation, and deep sub-bass extension. However, these positives are...Read more

diyaudioheaven.wordpress.com

02/05/2015

Ultrasone | DIY-Audio-Heaven - WordPress.com

Summary of the Ultrasone HFI-780 Review The Ultrasone HFI-780 headphones offer a premium visual appeal featuring neat aluminium cups, but they are an absolute letdown regarding acoustic execution. The reviewer heavily criticises their sound quality, ranking them below generic budget gear due to a disconnected bass response and an intensely sharp, raw edge in the upper mid-range....Read more

reference-audio-analyzer.pro

12/04/2026

Ultrasone HFI 780 Measurement's report | Reference Audio Analyzer

The Ultrasone HFI 780 is a pair of headphones evaluated by Reference Audio Analyzer (RAA) using standardized measurement stands alongside their newer Live Measurement System. Technical data reveals a relatively low average impedance of 41.8 ohms and a high average sensitivity of 115.2 dB/V SPL (101.4 dB/mW SPL) across the 100 Hz to 10 kHz band. Because it requires only 0.055 V_RMS...Read more

headfonia.com

27/02/2010

Three Way HFI-780 Shootout | Headfonia

The Headfonia Three-Way HFI-780 Shootout compares a stock Ultrasone HFI-780 against a professionally modded ALO Audio variant and a custom DIY unit, with the ALO version praised for improved flexibility and smoother treble via a premium Jena cable. The DIY modification, while using rigid, impractical chassis wiring, is noted for delivering superior imaging and a significantly...Read more

whathifi.com

29/02/2012

Ultrasone HFI-780 review | What Hi-Fi?

The Ultrasone HFI-780 over-ear headphones deliver a big, bold, and enthusiastic sound that excels with up-tempo music. Built to last, they feature a robust, nicely finished design with a comfortable headband and big, unsweaty earcups that provide excellent isolation and minimal sound leakage outdoors. The headphones include a 1.3m fixed cable alongside a 4m extension and a 3.5mm...Read more

connect.de

14/07/2011

Datasheet: Ultrasone HFI 780 - Connect", "Data Sheet: Ultrasone HFI 780 - Connect", "Specifications: Ultrasone HFI 780 - Connect

The Ultrasone HFI 780 is a pair of closed-back, dynamic over-ear headphones that received a highly positive technical evaluation in July 2011 on the German tech platform connect.de. Author Christine Tantschinez highlights its robust build and powerful electrical performance, noting an impedance of 40.4 Ohms and a high efficiency rating of 98.5 dB. The publication awards the...Read more

kopfhoerer.de

05/10/2015

Ultrasone HFI 780 review on kopfhoerer.de

The Ultrasone HFI 780 is reviewed on kopfhoerer.de as a visually striking, well-crafted, closed-back hi-fi headphone that leverages patent-protected S-Logic Natural Surround Sound technology to create an expansive, speaker-like audio stage. Pros include its premium polar-silver brushed aluminum appearance, high-quality audio resolution across the spectrum, and an exceptionally...Read more

connect.de

14/07/2011

Review: Ultrasone HFI 780 Headphones - connect

The Ultrasone HFI 780 headphones (priced at 200 Euros) deliver a high-quality audio performance characterized by exceptional detail richness and an overall balanced frequency response. A major audio strength highlighted in the Connect review is the very well-contoured bass that strikes a perfect middle ground—neither being too deep nor too shallow—which helps create authentic...Read more

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