Leather is widely known as a luxury material that can be used for various purposes. For headphones, leather is usually used to cover the ear pads and headband. Wearing headphones for a long time, especially ones that rest on your ear, may cause slight fatigue to your ears and even mild pain due to the weight and pressure. This is where the leather comes in, as it can soften the pressure to your ears and therefore, increasing the comfort level. Moreover, leather ear pads tend to create a better seal around the ear which affects how your music sounds. You will find that leather headphones helps create a stronger bass response compared to other materials.
The headband is a part that must not be forgotten. It can be the most complicated and critical component of a set of headphones. Many brands struggle to design the headband component as this is the part that determines the weight distribution of the headphone. The making of a headband is also an expensive process, especially when it is made of leather, but totally worth it as you can later feel it in the comfort and endurance of the headphones.
Read our latest guide about the best noise cancelling headphones for sleeping.
Types of Leather Materials Used by the Best Leather Headphones
Because leather is often placed at a premium price, you’d better know what it is you’re paying for when buying these products. This means you need to really understand two of the most common types of leather materials used in headphones: genuine leather and protein leather. Let’s discuss both of these materials further!
Genuine Leather
Also known as real leather or animal hide, this material has been extensively used to make bags, shoes, wallets, and clothing articles. Cowhide and sheepskin or lambskin are the most common genuine leather used to make leather headphones. Cow leather is more affordable because it is a byproduct of beef, which is consumed by about 65 to 70 percent of the world’s population. Meanwhile, sheepskin or lambskin is a leather material that went through processing to remove the fleece from the hide.
Here are some factors that differentiate cow leather and lambskin:
- Durability
How a material is used is determined by the degree of its durability. Cow leather tends to be thicker and less likely to crack or tear. It has dense fibers, making it more durable compared to lambskin as well as having a better resistant against heat and dirt. Because of these reasons, cow leather is most commonly found on handbags, purses, boots, or jackets. This material also ages very well.
Meanwhile, lambskin is less durable compared to cow leather. It is prone to suffer from wear and tear so a careful maintenance process must be upheld, especially to protect and store the product. Lambskin is also vulnerable to staining, so you must be careful not to get the product near anything that could transfer stain. However, the delicate nature of lambskin makes it the perfect material for high-end items such as gloves, handbags, and purses.
- Softness
The processing and tanning method will largely dictate how soft and supple the leather material is. However, cow leather generally feels a bit more textured and rough. Therefore, this material is able to retain its shape well which is useful in making fashion accessories such as wallets and purses. Lambskin, on the other hand, feels as soft as butter. It is delicate and very supple, making this material the superior choice for headphones and clothing articles. Lambskin also ages well-it gets softer and smoother as time goes by.
- Versatility
For the battle of versatility, cow leather wins hands down. Cowhide can be processed to various thickness, from a hard, rigid texture (great for shoes and bags) to become as soft and supple as lambskin. If comfort and softness is considered important, cow leathers called Premium Aniline and semi Aniline can be used.
- Comfort
Most of the time, a leather material’s comfort level is determined by its weight. In this category, lambskin wins by a landslide. Thinner and lighter the leathers are generally more flexible and supple, and lambskin fits all of these criteria. Because it is light, lambskin feels a lot more comfortable to be worn on your body. The suppleness of this leather material also makes it a popular choice for headphones and gloves as these two items require comfort and softness.
Meanwhile, cow leather is naturally tougher and heavier. This type of leather also requires a breaking-in period where time is needed before the leather can adapt to a certain shape (for example, the owner’s body). Tough and heavy isn’t necessarily a bad thing as these qualities are needed when you are making professional motorcycle jackets. This type of jacket is made with protection and heavy use in mind, so cow leather is the material of choice in this case.
- Maintenance
Cow leather requires less maintenance compared to lambskin because it is far more resistant to heat, dirt, moisture, and general wear and tear. This type of leather is likely to outlast any fabric. Lambskin material is also far more durable than fabric, but it is more likely to be affected by the environment and it stretches over time. If you do not maintain and store your lambskin headphones properly, the leather may sag over time.
We have long used animal hides and leathers because of its superior qualities. Both cow leather and lambskin are high-quality materials that are commonly used for making a variety of goods. The choice between these two leathers depends on the final use of the product. When you keep that in mind along with the key differences between the two, you can make the right choice in an instant.
- Protein Leather
Perhaps you’ve seen this term when you’re looking at the specs of a set of headphones you want to buy. Perhaps you’re left wondering whether protein leather is real leather. And perhaps you want to know if it’s actually a good material for headphones. Let’s find out the answer below.
Protein leather is a synthetic leather that can act as a substitute to many types of leather. It is made by combining resin and protein powder to make a strong, supple sheet of material that looks and feels incredibly similar to leather. As for quality, protein leather is very durable, even more so than genuine leather. It is pliable and resilient, enough to fight against normal wear and tear. Protein leather are usually used in headphones ear pads and car seat covers. With good maintenance, this material can last for decades.
This material is sometimes referred to as Pleather, though the slang can mean Plastic Leather at the same time. Knowing the difference is crucial. Plastic Leather is an inexpensive polyurethane material that is made by bonding plastic to fabric such as cotton or polyester. It is then embossed to look like top-grain part of leather. This material is prone to cracking and splitting after just a few months of use. That is why if you see the term Pleather in the headphones’ specs, it’s best to confirm what it actually means.
Because protein leather is more cost efficient, it is used to make various different types of products in place of genuine leather. Products such as upholstery, clothing, and fabrics. Even high-end headphones manufacturers use this material for the ear pads. It may also be preferable for those looking for vegan products because it is artificial: no animals were harmed to produce the leather. Protein leather tends to have more uniform appearance and consistent color compared to real leather. Another plus point includes low maintenance as this material can be cleansed using water and soap, unlike real leather that needs special products to clean.
High quality protein leather may last twice as long as real leather, but the low quality ones have far shorter lifespan. It may crack or split or become unwearable over time, while genuine leather will only get softer, more comfortable, and will develop a beautiful sheen called patina. Protein leather is also not breathable unlike leather so depending on the product, it may get uncomfortable when you sweat or when you wear it for a long time. But sadly, that doesn’t mean protein leather will keep you warm in colder weather.
Finally, genuine leather and protein leather may look and feel similar, but a closer inspection will reveal several different characteristics that distinguish the two. Depending on the quality, real leather may feel smooth or coarse but protein leather will feel smooth like that of a plastic. The texture is also slightly different. Where real leather has natural pattern inconsistencies, protein leather has organized pattern and pores. Genuine leather will absorb water, while protein leather is waterproof. Another difference is that protein leather may feel stretchy instead of flexible and soft like genuine leather, and it doesn’t develop a patina over time unlike real leather. But the most obvious difference is the smell. Real leather has a very distinct smell that cannot be replicated by protein leather, which has a chemical smell that comes from the plastics used.
Read our complete guide about the best waterproof headphones.
Consider These When Selecting the Best Leather Headphones
Before investing in a pair of leather headphones, you’d better make sure the product of your choice will live up to each and every one of your imaginations. Here are the things you need to check before deciding on a leather headphones purchase.
Comfort
Since one of the advantages of leather is its high comfort level, it makes no sense to choose an uncomfortable set of leather headphones. That is why you should not only look at the type of leather being used but also the construction of the ear pads and headband. Both ear pads should be sufficiently and efficiently padded. They should not apply too much pressure when you first wear it, because you will feel more pressure after wearing it for a long time. Ideally, ear pads should have good noise isolation quality if not noise cancelling. Meanwhile, the headband should have an adjustable design. The quality of materials used to construct the headband is of the utmost importance. It should be made of high quality metal so it doesn’t rust easily from your sweat. The leather used on the headband should also be premium leather, because this kind of leather is skin-friendly and will not give you rashes from prolonged exposure.
Brand
If you’re not careful in choosing the brands, you might end up buying a subpar audio device. While leather headphones are considered premium merchandise, the fact is not all companies produce the same high-quality products. Some headphones manufacturers may use less-than-stellar leather material for their devices, which could hurt your wallet and ears. This is why buying your leather headphones from respected brands is important. Respected brands don’t mean you need to shop exclusively at a big company. Some smaller, less common brand may just surprise you with quality products and affordable price. The key is to do your homework by doing research and checking out online reviews.
Audio Quality
You must’ve heard this before: looks are not everything. Having an expensive-looking headphone means nothing if it doesn’t give you amazing sound reproduction. After all, isn’t that why you’re buying headphones in the first place. There are a number of factors that will determine if a headphone is able to reproduce sound at a decent level. They are noise isolation, frequency response, maximum decibels, and equalizer.
Noise isolation quality is largely connected to the design of the ear pads. This is an important part of sound reproduction because with noise isolation you can reduce ambient noise and immerse yourself deeper into the music. The average frequency response range of a headphone is between 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Ideally, an ultra-wide frequency response is needed to produce better sounds. But if you know what you want, you can simply search for a headphone that will match your needs. For example, you can choose a headphone with a wider low frequency if you want a deeper bass.
Maximum decibels indicates how loud you can play the music without ruining or distorting the sound. The preferable max dB is above 100 dB but again, this purely depends on the individual’s preferences. Last but not least is the equalizer. It is an important feature that makes a huge difference as it allows you to customize the audio to your preferences. If the headphone of your choice doesn’t come with a built-in equalizer, you can download an app that will give you EQ functions.
Connectivity
Nowadays, you need to be able to connect to your electronics wherever, whenever. Today’s best headphones are designed with this in mind. Your leather headphone should at least have Bluetooth function because it can give you wireless freedom in a certain distance. If you’re using Bluetooth, make sure to choose headphones with long battery life or the ability to recharge quickly so you’ll never be without your music. Though auxiliary cables are a bit outdated, you might want a headphone that still has AUX capabilities just in case any problems arise. After all, AUX wire is stable and often comes with buttons to adjust the volume, skip tracks, or receive calls.
Top 15 Best Leather Headphones in 2021
Picture |
Name | Feature | Price |
Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|
Picture |
Name | Feature | Price |
Rating |
1. Bowers & Wilkins P9 Signature Over-Ear Headphones |
Drive units-2x ø40mm (1.6in) full range | $$$ | 4.5 | |
2. Master & Dynamic MW60 Wireless Premium Leather Over-Ear Headphones |
16 hour battery life | $$$ | 4.4 | |
3. Philips Fidelio X2HR Over-Ear Headphones |
3. 5mm detachable oxygen-free cable (3m) | $$$ | 4.4 | |
4. Master & Dynamic MH40 Over-Ear Headphones |
First-rate quality: Master & Dynamic | $$$ | 4.3 | |
5. Pioneer Hi-Res SE-MS5T Over-Ear Headphones |
ABS + metallic Housing, metal & up-leather | $$ | 4.2 | |
6. Panasonic Retro Over-Ear Bluetooth RP-HTX80B-C |
up to 24 hours of playback | $$ | 4.2 | |
7. Pioneer SE-MS7BT Hi-Res Over-Ear Headphones |
Frequency response - 9 Hz - 22 000 Hz | $$ | 4.2 | |
8. Master & Dynamic MH30 Foldable On-Ear Headphones |
RICH SOUND | $$ | 4.2 | |
9. Marshall Major III Bluetooth Wireless On-Ear Headphones |
30+ hours of wireless playtime on a single charge | $$ | 4.0 | |
10. Yamaha HPH-MT7 Studio Monitor Headphones |
40 mm custom drivers | $$$ | 4.0 | |
11. BOHM B76 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones |
Built-In Volume Control | $$ | 3.9 | |
12. SIVGA SV004 Hi-Fi Wired Headphones |
TWO DETACHABLE AUDIO CABLES | $$ | 3.9 | |
13. AO M7 Wireless Headphones |
premium 40mm stereo drivers deliver | $$ | 3.9 | |
14. OneOdio Over-Ear Headphones |
90° swiveling earcups | $$ | 3.9 | |
15. Beyution Wireless Over-Ear Headphones |
up to 7-8 hours of talk time | $$ | 3.9 |
1. Bowers & Wilkins P9 Signature Over-Ear Headphones
As the flagship headphone of Bowers & Wilkins, the P9 Signature is an amazingly exquisite over-ear headphones specifically crafted for audiophiles as well as people who are passionate in making music. This model brings forth Bowers & Wilkins’ most advanced headphone driver units that will undoubtedly give users the highest quality sound possible. The P9 Signature is a leather headphone that will bring you a true luxury experience.
Design
Bowers & Wilkins P9 Signature Over-Ear Headphones may just have the most luxurious appearance you have ever seen from a headphone. Both ear pads and the head band are enveloped by the finest quality Italian Saffiano leather. This headphone comes in the color tan and has a unique cross-hatch finish. For the frame, aluminum is used to provide durability and resistance to rust. Though designed with a closed back, the P9 Signature is able to diffuse heat properly unlike other Bower & Wilkins headphones. This is definitely a plus point which can be celebrated most after using the headphones for hours.
Because the P9 Signature was designed by the engineers who developed the 800 Series Diamond, the drivers are made at a 15° angle so it will align naturally with your ears and increase comfort. Moreover, the engineers used finite element analysis to bring the cabinets inside the P9 Signature to perfection. Because of this effort, a controlled and precise performance of the driver is made possible which leads to a superiorly clear sound reproduction. The P9 Signature also has minimized resonance and optimized audio clarity thanks to its decoupled design that prevent stray vibrations from disturbing the headband and both ear cups.
However, the P9 Signature isn’t without fault. The noise isolation is poor because of the closed back. When wearing this headphone, you can hear the noise around you and other people can hear what you’re listening to. playing in your ears. Additionally, the P9 Signature is quite heavy at 413 grams because of the thick aluminum construction.
Brand History
With over 50 years of acoustic engineering expertise, you can’t go wrong with Bowers & Wilkins. This British audio company was started in West Sussex, England as a radio and electronic shop. After they get the shop up and running, John Bowers then built a small production workshop at the shop’s backyard. In 1967, Bowers & Wilkins released their first commercial speaker called the P1. Since then, this brand has continuously manufactured award-winning headphones and other audio devices and has been recognized as one of the best manufacturers in the industry.
Audio Quality
Once you put this pair of cans on your ears, you’ll know-the drivers are definitely the star of Bowers & Wilkins P9 Signature Headphones. First, the low notes. Low notes are prone to sounding like echoes, while the bass is prone to sounding like a thump instead of a deep tone we all love. But here, on the P9 Signature, there are none of those. Meanwhile, the mid notes on this headphone is not bad. It is quite dynamic as the headphone bumps the right frequencies as it hushed others. With this headphone, you will hear clear vocals and harmonics. Depending on the quality of the recording, you might even hear the vocal echo, too.
When it comes to the high tones, Bowers & Wilkins P9 Signature Headphones are second to none. This is where this headphone shine, as it continues to give out a controlled and accurate performance. The P9 Signature has a frequency range of 2Hz to 30kHz and 22 ohms impedance. That’s quite a wide range, both for the lows and the highs. But the great thing is even when you’re listening to music filled with high-pitched sound or instruments, you will never hear any shrill with the P9 Signature.
However, the audio quality of this headphone suffers a bit due to the poor noise isolation. If you were to listen to your music at home, it is unlikely that this will be a problem. But if you’re taking this headphone to a subway or to go to work, outside noises will come in and mess with the audio reproduction.
Special Features
The P9 Signature Headphone features a changeable dual cavity ear cushions along with controlled acoustic air leak quality. The inner part of the ear cups contain Nylon damped cone with acoustic coating as well as a large surround diaphragm. When you buy the P9 Signature Headphone, you will get a slim protective cover that you can use to store the P9 Signature when folded. You will also get three 3.5mm jack audio cables and a 6.3mm adapter. One of them is equipped with a remote that can be used to control the volume, music tracks, and accepting calls.
Pros
- 2Hz to 30kHz frequency response
- 22 ohms impedance
- Features Italian Saffiano leather
- Durable aluminum frame
- Powerful, precise drivers
- Minimum vibration and resonance
- Superior audio clarity, especially on the high notes
- Emphasizes vocals and harmonies
Cons
- Noise isolation is subpar due to the closed back
- No Bluetooth connectivity
2. Master & Dynamic MW60 Wireless Premium Leather Over-Ear Headphones
Dubbed as the ultramodern mobile thinking caps by Master & Dynamic, the MW60 Over-Ear Headphones has a signature rich, warm sound that will help you focus and get you inspired. Built with only the finest materials, your mind will be transported whenever, wherever you put these pair of cans on your ears.
Design
The MW60 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones come in many different colors, including Gunmetal / Black Leather, Silver Metal / Brown Leather, Black Metal / Black Leather, Silver Metal / Navy Leather, Silver Metal / Red Leather, and Silver Metal / Black Leather. The headband as well as several accents on the ear pads are made of heavy grain premium cowhide. Meanwhile, the ear cups themselves are made of memory foam wrapped in genuine lambskin. Lambskin is naturally very soft, breathable, and comfortable. Both ear pads can also be removed to facilitate cleaning. Other components include stainless steel in all high strain areas. This headphone is foldable for ease of transport and storage. It weighs 345 grams, which is average for headphones of this caliber.
Brand History
In 2014, Jonathan Levine founded Master & Dynamic. He wanted to create a line of audio products that in 50 years would still stand the test of time. This brand’s DNA is a superior design and craftsmanship, the use of premium materials, and development of sophisticated technology.
Audio Quality
This headphone has a frequency range of 5 Hz to 25 kHz and 32 ohms impedance. The bass notes are balanced and well-reproduced but not thumping. The mid tones are emphasized though not overpowering. The vocals and main instruments are loud, detailed, and clear. The highs are not harsh, which is how most people like it. All in all, the MW60 does a very good job at sound reproduction, though some consumers feel that the noise isolation isn’t very good.
Special Features
The MW60 features a 45mm Neodymium High-Performance Drivers and an omni-directional, noise-isolating dual microphone to give your calls greater clarity. The headphone is also equipped with tactile, intuitive controls so that adjusting the volume, skipping tracks, and receiving calls become easier. For connectivity, the MW60 uses Bluetooth 4.1 with APTX high quality audio. The signal range in this headphone is increased threefold to approximately 100 feet thanks to the special antennae on the left ear cup. The connectivity is supported by the 16-hour rechargeable battery so you can simply relax and enjoy the music. Purchase comes with a canvas headphone pouch, a canvas cord case, a detachable 1.25m standard cable, a micro USB charging cable, a 3.5 / 6.3mm Gold-Plated Adapter and a leather cable box.
Pros
- Genuine lambskin ear pads
- Cowhide headband
- Stainless steel frame
- Foldable
- Available in various colors
- Balanced sound reproduction
- Extra-long Bluetooth signal range
- Battery life: 16 hours
Cons
- Poor noise isolation
3. Philips Fidelio X2HR Over-Ear Headphones
With the Fidelio X2HR Headphones, you can enjoy an authentic listening experience in the comfort of your home. The pristine sound details and exquisite comfort in this headphone is custom-crafted for your total enjoyment.
Design
The Fidelio X2HR sports an all-black solid built which is still very much similar to its predecessors. The mesh open-back ear pads is constructed of memory foam and velour, a synthetic material that is comfortable and breathable. It’s also able to dissipate pressure and heat well and thus, increasing your long-wear comfort. The headband is made of leather, and there is an added 3D mesh band sitting below for comfort. The hammock is self-adjustable and lightweight. This headphone also comes with pre-tilted drivers at 15 degrees to fit the ears and promote minimal sound reflection. Though this headphone is very comfortable construction-wise, its weight might gradually bring you discomfort. Standing at 435 grams, you might feel the X2HR weighing your ears down after hours of listening.
Brand History
The brand Philips was initiated in 1891 and now, it is one of the largest electronics companies in the world. This Dutch multinational company is headquartered in Amsterdam. The company has many focus areas, including in healthcare, lighting, and electronics such as home and audio appliances.
Audio Quality
With 5 Hz to 40 KHz frequency response and 30 ohms impedance, the Fidelio X2HR claims to have a well balanced crisp bass, transparent mid-range, and pristine high frequencies. The claims do live up to reality. The low notes are tight and accurate. It is powerful, restrained, and reproduced with incredible detail. The vocal and instruments are cohesive and punctual as well as full of feeling. Meanwhile, the cymbals are detailed without sounding pitchy. The downside is this headphone leaks slightly so you won’t get a proper noise isolation when you’re in public.
Special Features
The X2HR headphone features powerful 50mm Neodymium drivers that help to increase its sound range. Philips also introduces the Layered Motion Control (LMC) drivers into the X2HR. It means that the polymer diaphragm is built with multiple layers, and together they encase the damping gel. This combination of the layers and the gel will absorb and dampen any overwhelming frequencies and flatter the appropriate frequency response, making your music sounds more balanced, natural, and refined. The headphones’ open-back design is also useful in eliminating built-up pressure behind the driver so the diaphragm can move freely. Because of this, the sound reproduction is very smooth and transparent, even at high frequencies. Purchase comes with a detachable 3m cable, a cable management clip, a 3.5mm jack, and a 6.3mm adapter.
Pros
- Leather headband
- Velour ear pads with memory foam
- 3D mesh, adjustable hammock
- 5 Hz to 40 kHz frequency response
- 30 ohms impedance
- 50mm multi-layered Neodymium drivers
- Balanced sound reproduction
Cons
- Lacks noise isolation
- Doesn’t come with travel pouch
4. Master & Dynamic MH40 Over-Ear Headphones
As the original modern thinking caps from the brand Master & Dynamic, the MH40 Over-Ear Headphones have got some pretty spectacular reviews from consumers. If you are looking for the best leather headphones, this Master & Dynamic flagship headphone is worth looking at.
Design
The MH40 is available in Silver Metal / Brown Leather, Gunmetal / Black Leather, Black Metal / Black Leather, Gunmetal / Black Alcantara, and Silver Metal / Navy Leather. The body is made of forged aluminum, built for decades of use, as well as stainless steel in all high strain areas. The ear pads are made of genuine lambskin with memory foam for superior comfort and breathability. They are removable for cleaning or replacement pads. Meanwhile, the headband is covered with heavy grain premium cowhide at the exterior surface and soft lambskin on the interior. The MH40 is comfortable for long-wear use because it is lightweight at 360 grams.
Brand History
Master & Dynamic is a New York City-based premium audio brand founded in 2014. Though the brand is relatively new to the audio market, it has grown into a formidable company because it continues to focusing on manufacturing high-quality headphones.
Audio Quality
The MH40 comes with 32 ohms impedance and 5Hz to 25kHz frequency response. In short, this headphone sounds good. The bass is deep, powerful, and strong. It tends to take the center stage, and many people like this kind of sound reproduction. The mid-range is boosted and carries a warm signature to the notes. The high notes are well-tuned and tame, and they won’t destroy your eardrums.
Special Features
The driving force behind the MH40 is the 45 mm Neodymium high-performance drivers. Coupled with the heavy duty woven cables made of oxygen-free copper, you will get a pure sound reproduction and reduced noise. Other feature includes the easily accessible mute button that is made of aluminum for durability. The connectivity in this headphone comes from the dual 3.5mm standard jack. You will get one 2m standard cable and one 1.25 detachable cable with remote control and omni-directional microphone. Purchase also includes a canvas headphone case, a leather cable box, and a 3.5/6.3 mm gold-plated adapter.
Pros
- Genuine lambskin ear pads and inner headband
- Premium cowhide for headband exterior
- Replaceable memory foam pads
- 5Hz to 25kHz frequency response
- 32 ohms impedance
- Dual 3.5mm standard jack connectivity
- Available in many different colors
- Includes protective case
Cons
- Heavy bass reproduction may not suit everyone
5. Pioneer Hi-Res SE-MS5T Over-Ear Headphones
In early 2017, Pioneer introduced the SE-MS5T Over-Ear Headphones to the audio market. The brand claimed that this was the least expensive hi-res headphones in the world. Keep reading below for the specs and features breakdown.
Design
The SE-MS5T comes with four color choices: Black Leather / Black Metal, Brown Leather / Silver Metal, Black Leather / Silver Metal, and Black Leather / Red Metal. It is a retro-style headphone with wide, cushioned ear pads. The ear pads are ergonomically shaped and heavily sculpted to fit various ears. However, the cups are made of plastic, the pads are not memory foam, and the setting can only be adjusted vertically. These factors can potentially cause problem for some consumers. Moreover, both the headband and the ear pads are covered with leatherette, a synthetic leather material. Typically, this type of material gets a bit warm if worn for an extended period of time. The saving grace of the SE-MS5T perhaps is its weight, standing at merely 250 grams without cord.
Brand History
Pioneer was founded in 1937 by Nozomu Matsumoto. At that time, he succeeded in developing the first domestic dynamic speaker called the A-8. Since then, Pioneer has become a Japanese multinational corporation based in Tokyo, Japan, with a focus in digital entertainment products.
Audio Quality
With 32 ohms impedance and 9Hz to 40kHz frequency response (wired connection), the SE-MS5T might be one of the widest range headphones in the market. This headphone is even certified by the Hi-Res Audio Consortium to reproduce frequencies up to 40,000Hz. As for the sound reproduction, it is neutrally-tuned. The low notes are accurate and clear, though they are not very emphasized or boomy. The mid-range sounds natural. The vocals is prominent and precise. Meanwhile, the high notes can be a bit harsh but never reaching any dangerous levels. All in all, the SE-MS5T produces good and accurate sounds, though they are not powerful or punchy. The noise isolation in this headphone performs very well if you can achieve a good seal, and you can comfortably use this headphone in louder environments.
Special Features
The drivers behind the SE-MS5T is a 40mm Closed Dynamic speaker type. This headphone comes with an integrated microphone and a 1.2m cable for listening. The plug is a 3.5mm stereo mini-plug that is plated with gold. You will get a micro USB cable but carrying pouch or 6.5mm adapter are not included.
Pros
- Made of synthetic leather
- Ergonomically-shaped ear pads
- Lightweight at 250 grams
- 9Hz to 40kHz Hi-Res audio
- 32ohms impedance
- 40mm drivers
- Integrated microphone
Cons
- No memory foam on the ear pads
- Feels more like a budget headphone than a premium one
6. Panasonic Retro Over-Ear Bluetooth RP-HTX80B-C
The RP-HTX80B-C is a premium wireless headphone suitable for use at home or during a commute. This headphone sports a retro style with four cool color choices.
Design
Panasonic RP-HTX80B-C is available in Matte Black, Sangria (Red), Matte Steel, and Dijon. It is among the most stylish headphones in Panasonic’s headphone collections. This headphone is mostly made of plastic, except for the aluminum cap and synthetic leather headband. The RP-HTX80B-C features soft, cushioned ear pads and full-sized ear cups for added comfort. For a customized fit, you can use the wire adjusters to set both the headband and ear pads. The fit is gentle and not too tight, though the headband is fairly flexible so you can use this headphone during exercise without fear that it will fall off.
Brand History
Panasonic is one of the world’s largest electronics industry company headquartered in Osaka, Japan.
Audio Quality
This headphone has 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response and 32 ohms impedance. The bass and high notes are balanced and clean, but the mid-range is rather wonky. The vocals are recessed and flat, and there is a rather disturbing mid-resonance that is noticeable at all volumes.
Special Features
The RP-HTX80B-C features large 40mm Neodymium drivers along with Acoustic Bass Control to provide clear, balanced audio. This headphone comes with a rechargeable battery that gives you up to 24 hours of playback. To charge, use the provided micro USB cable and plug it into the socket on the right cup. A 15-minute charge will give you 2.5 hours of music. Integrated with Bluetooth technology, the RP-HTX80B-C can play music smoothly without any hitch from long distance. Controls are simple: three buttons to play/pause, change tracks, and change the volume, and one button to act as a power button. You can find these on the right cup, along with a built-in microphone.
Pros
- 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response
- 32 ohms impedance
- 40mm Neodymium drivers
- Up to 24 hours of battery life
- Synthetic leather headband
- Adjustable, cushioned ear pads
- Available in many retro colors
Cons
- Most components are made of plastic
- Somewhat disturbing mid-tones
7. Pioneer SE-MS7BT Hi-Res Over-Ear Headphones
The SE-MS7BT is a part of Pioneer’s Style Series, equipped with Bluetooth and in-line microphone to promote hands-free operation.
Design
With aluminum frame and accents, the SE-MS7BT feels as solid and durable as can be. Both the headband and ear pads are wide, cushioned, and covered with synthetic leather material. The ear pads are ergonomically shaped, especially behind the ear, to maximize the user’s comfort level. This headphone is very light at only 290 grams, so it is suitable for long-term wear.
Brand History
Started as a radio and speaker repair shop, Pioneer now has become one of the most successful corporations in the digital audio market.
Audio Quality
The SE-MS7BT has 32 ohms impedance and a frequency response of 9 Hz to 22 kHz when connected to Bluetooth and 9 Hz to 40 kHz when connected via wire. Pioneer’s headphones are Hi-Res certified, meaning the SE-MS7BT can reproduce outstanding detail and dynamics. The bass is deep and powerful, the mid is detailed and clear, and the highs are subtle but evident.
Special Features
This headphone uses 40mm Closed Dynamic speaker drivers to enhance its sound reproduction. It allows wireless connection via Bluetooth 3.0 with aptX for up to 10m listening range. Purchase comes with a rechargeable battery with up to 12 hours battery life for playing music or talking. You would only need approximately 4 hours to fully charge the battery.
Pros
- Synthetic leather material
- Aluminum construction
- Hi-Res sound
- Wireless playback
- Lightweight
- Up to 12 hours battery life
Cons
- No noise cancellation properties
8. Master & Dynamic MH30 Foldable On-Ear Headphones
The MH30 is Master & Dynamic’s Mobile Thinking Cap, specially designed for decades of use.
Design
The MH30 is a lightweight and foldable on-ear headphones from Master & Dynamic. They are available in 5 colors, including Gunmetal / Black Leather, Silver Metal / Brown Leather, Silver Metal / White Leather, Silver Metal / Black Alcantara, and Black Metal / Black Leather. It has a forged aluminum body and stainless steel in high strain areas, including the foldable hinges. All metals are coated with anodized finish or Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) to increase their durability. As for the headband, the exterior is covered by heavy grain premium cowhide and the interior is blanketed by soft lambskin. The ear pads are cushioned using memory foam and wrapped in comfortable, breathable genuine lambskin.
Brand History
Master & Dynamic is a New York-based audio company that was founded in 2013. It focuses on designing and manufacturing audio equipment, such as headphones and earphones, as well as various audio accessories.
Audio Quality
With 32 ohms impedance, the MH30 carries Master & Dynamic’s lively and warm sound signature. The bass is quite powerful. In fact, the MH30 might just be Master & Dynamic’s most bass-heavy headphone. On the other hand, the mid is warm and prominent and the highs are well-balanced and not ear-piercing.
Special Features
The MH30 features 45mm Neodymium High-Performance Drivers and oxygen-free copper wires to ensure pure sound and reduced noise. For connectivity, this headphone uses dual 3.5mm standard jack.
Pros
- Genuine lambskin ear pads
- Heavy grain premium cowhide headband
- Stainless steel hinges
- Anodized aluminum finish
- Powerful bass
- Features 45mm Neodymium Drivers
- Available in many colors
Cons
- No noise cancellation properties
9. Marshall Major III Bluetooth Wireless On-Ear Headphones
Marshall’s revolutionary Major III Bluetooth Headphones will give you freedom and convenience thanks to its Bluetooth aptX tech and 30+ hours of playtime on a single charge.
Design
The Major III is a wireless headphone with collapsible design. It is available in Black, White, and Brown. This headphone is covered by synthetic leather that has a distinct rough texture. The inner part of the ear cup, however, uses a softer, smoother synthetic leather in order to maintain comfort. Moreover, the inside of the pad hole is wrapped with ultra-soft velour material. The fit of this headphone can be adjusted via the black anodized 3D hinges. They can be rotated to achieve an ergonomic fit, no matter the shape of your head. While thick rubber wires are installed to add to the durability, this headphone is among the lightest in the industry at merely 178 grams.
Brand History
Founded in 1962 in London, England, Marshall Amplification is a company that designs and manufactures various audio equipment, including amplifiers, headphones, and earphones. The company is now based in Bletchley, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire.
Audio Quality
The Major III has a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20kHz and 32 ohms impedance. The headphone’s sound reproduction focuses more on emphasizing guitar textures than bass notes. The upper-mid range is especially boosted, giving the notes character and clarity. All in all, the Major III sounds great but it’s not the kind of headphone that produces thumping bass sound.
Special Features
This wireless headphone features 40mm dynamic drivers, tuned to enhance bass notes, produce smooth mid-notes and clear highs. The wireless property comes from Bluetooth aptX, allowing movement within 30 feet from the source. Major III is also equipped with a rechargeable battery with over 30 hours of wireless playback time, and it takes only 3 hours to achieve a full charge. The headphone comes with a multi-directional control knob that functions like your typical remote. A detachable 3.5mm cable and micro USB charging cable are included.
Pros
- Grainy synthetic leather material
- Ergonomic ear pads
- Collapsible design
- Solid, lightweight
- Broad frequency response
- 40mm dynamic drivers
- Up to 30 hours of playback
- Quick recharge
Cons
- Small ear pads
10. Yamaha HPH-MT7 Studio Monitor Headphones
As a high-resolution monitor headphone, the HPH-MT7 is able to reproduce the most subtle nuances of sound. Thanks to the highly detailed sound reproduction and product durability, this headphone is perfect to be used when mixing and recording in the studio as well as monitoring live performances.
Design
Black and sleek, the HPH-MT7’s stylish look is suitable for every audiophile out there. The body is made of thick ABS material, and the support arms are constructed from rigid die-cast aluminum. The HPH-MT7 features smooth synthetic leather material with large ear pads that uses low resistance cushion to ensure comfort when wearing. You can adjust the fit via the three-dimensional arm pivot as well as the slider. The custom adjustment and the product’s weight (380 grams with cable and plug) will help you alleviate fatigue when wearing the headphones for an extended period of time. Last but not least, the HPH-MT7 is also designed with a closed-back, circumaural configuration to give you the very best noise isolation possible.
Brand History
Yamaha Corporation is a Japanese multinational company that manufactures a wide variety of products and services, especially musical instruments and electronics.
Audio Quality
The HPH-MT7 has a broad frequency response of 15 Hz to 25 kHz and 49 ohms impedance. The bass sound in this headphone is clean and full. The middle is emphasized, and the highs are present without being overwhelming to the ears.
Special Features
The HPH-MT7 features 40mm dynamic drivers with CCAW voice coils. This combination enables the headphone to achieve a broad frequency range and accurate response. This headphone also comes with a permanently-connected 3 meter straight cable, attached to the left ear cup.
Pros
- Synthetic leather material
- Great noise isolation
- Broad frequency response
- Features 40mm dynamic drivers
- 49 ohms impedance
- Adjustable fit
Cons
- The cable is permanently attached, no wireless option
- Poor sound quality when taking calls
11. BOHM B76 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
The B76 will accompany you to experience a crisp, vibrant sound and powerful bass. Equipped with the latest active noise cancellation technology and ambient noise reduction, BOHM’s B76 headphone is one of the best leather headphones in the market.
Design
Available in black leather with silver metal and light tan leather with gold accents, the B76 comes with an elegant black carry case. Its rotatable and foldable design makes this headphone easy to take with you on the go. The B76 is made of soft faux leather and brushed metal finish with memory foam ear pads that provide ample ear coverage.
Brand History
BOHM was born out of the love for music. Their uniquely-crafted products are designed to express their one mission: to improve the quality of sound.
Audio Quality
The B76 has 110 ohms impedance. The bass sounds are full and dynamic, while the mids and highs are solid and clear. Overall, BOHM B76 Wireless Headphone has a balanced soundstage.
Special Features
This headphone features 40mm drivers and Bluetooth 4.0 with an operating distance of 10m. It is equipped with a rechargeable battery with up to 16 hours of playtime and 2 hours of charging time. This headphone also features the most advanced active and passive noise cancelling technology. Last but not least, there is a multifunction button for power, volume, and playback control.
Pros
- Soft faux leather material
- Foldable design
- Balanced soundstage
- Features Bluetooth 4.0
- Only 2 hours to full charge
- Include carry case
Cons
- Battery life isn’t as long as advertised
12. SIVGA SV004 Hi-Fi Wired Headphones
World-class musical instruments are made from wood so your headphones should, too.
Design
The SV004 features a classic wood shell as its ear muffs. You can choose between Walnut and Rosewood. Meanwhile, the headband is made of premium leather and is flexible and stretchable to fit various head types. The two ear cups are rotatable, and the pads are soft and cushioned.
Brand History
SIVGA creates each pair of headphones with heart. All of their headphones are polished by hand to avoid cracks from forming.
Audio Quality
SIVGA has managed to balanced all three frequencies in the SV004. This headphone plays pop music and electronic dance music especially well.
Special Features
This headphone features 50mm drivers to support its sound reproduction. Purchase includes two detachable audio cables, one with built in microphone and buttons to control volume, tracks, and answering calls. This model is also equipped with aircraft adapter for listening on airplanes. The SV004 comes with a 12-month warranty.
Pros
- Wooden ear muffs
- Premium leather headband
- Balanced soundstage
- Hand-polished
- 12 month warranty
Cons
- Wired connectivity only
13. AO M7 Wireless Headphones
Design
The M7 is available in Black and Brown. It is made of soft faux leather. The design is lightweight and adjustable with cushioned ear pads.
Brand History
AO is a brand that manufactures various electronics, such as TV, entertainment, and other small appliances.
Audio Quality
The M7 produces thumping bass, prominent mid-range, and sparkling high notes.
Special Features
This headphone features active noise cancelling and 40mm stereo drivers. It is equipped with Bluetooth and rechargeable battery (20+ hours of playtime on a single 2-hour charge). Purchase includes a travel case and a 12-month warranty.
Pros
- Faux leather material
- Cushioned ear pads
- Features active noise cancelling
- 40mm stereo drivers
- Up to 20 hours playtime
- 12-month warranty
Cons
- Sound reproduction lacks quality
14. OneOdio Over-Ear Headphones
If you are a DJ or work in a recording studio, this leather headphone might hit the spot.
Design
This headphone is available in Silver, Black, and Red. It features German memory-protein ear muffs that helps to disperse pressure and heat. The soft leather headband also promotes comfort and noise isolation.
Brand History
OneOdio believes in the power of music. This brand aims to produce headphones for professional DJs and studio monitoring.
Audio Quality
With 32 ohms impedance and 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response, expect to hear a powerful bass, clear vocals, and crisp highs.
Special Features
This headphone features large 50mm Neodymium drivers. Purchase includes 6.3mm and 3.55 standard-sized plugs.
Pros
- Faux leather material
- Features German-made earmuffs
- Broad frequency response
- Large 50mm drivers
Cons
- Inconsistent sound quality
15. Beyution Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
No noise, no wires, just you and your headphones. This Beyution headphone will drown any external noise, such as airplane, traffic, or office noise.
Design
This headphone is available in many different fun colors. It is constructed of super-soft protein leather on the headband and ear pads. The ear pads are ergonomic and rotatable, while the headband is adjustable.
Brand History
Beyution is an online company that sells electronics, cell phones, headphones, and accessories.
Audio Quality
This headphone produces warm sound signature with precise highs and deep bass.
Special Features
The headphone features Bluetooth 4.1, Advanced Noise Cancelling, and premium 40mm stereo drivers with aptX. It is also integrated with rechargeable battery (25 hours playback from 2 hours charging. Purchase includes a carry case.
Pros
- Protein leather material
- Ergonomic, adjustable ear pads
- Great sound reproduction
- Features ANC
- Up to 25 hours of playback
Cons
- Fragile frame
- Poor mic sound quality