Large headphones: how to choose, rating of the best models of 2021

Music lovers prefer to use high-quality headphones at home so that no extraneous sounds interfere with their enjoyment of their favorite tracks. Advanced gamers also prefer to use wired full-size headphones, because these devices completely cover the auricle, cutting off the user from the outside world - there is a complete immersion in the virtual world and their favorite game.

Users who want to know all the features and differences between modern models of headphones with durable and soft ear pads are invited to carefully read the article we offer.

What is this device

Full-size headphones connected via a reliable wire are an ideal gift for a music lover; you can listen to it at any time, turn up the volume at full volume, but not disturb those around you from doing their own thing. The design feature is that they completely cover the auricle and do not let in extraneous sounds from outside.

Wired products have a fairly flexible wire and ear pads with very high-quality insulation; in addition, they create additional space for sound propagation and prevent it from penetrating outside the headphones. Passionate fans of computer games also love to use such products.

#10 – BLUEDIO T Monitor

Price: 2,000 rubles

The BLUEDIO T Monitor is one of the most affordable headphones of its kind on the market. Of course, you shouldn’t expect outstanding sound from them - there is no bass as such, and the high frequencies begin to rattle at high volumes, but the device is suitable for gaming and watching movies.

It is noteworthy that the model has a microphone, which allows it to be used as a headset. The microphone works properly, transmitting your words clearly.

BLUEDIO T Monitor

The headphones are connected via Bluetooth 5.0 and there are no problems with this; owners in reviews report that the signal breaks through walls and doors. Additionally, we note fast charging - in 10 minutes the headphones are charged so much that they can work for two and a half hours.

Difference with over-ear headphones

Many users confuse the full-size version with over-ear headphones, but these are different models: the over-ear version only covers the ear, while large headphones, with their soft and fairly wide ear pads, cover the auricle, isolating it completely from the outside world. There is also a big difference in sound reproduction.

Simple small headphones are equipped with a membrane that moves under the influence of electrical signals from sound-reproducing equipment, resulting in sound. Full-size headphones have large-diameter speakers that provide excellent sound; the principle used here is that the larger the area, the better the low frequencies or bass are reproduced.

In overhead products, high frequencies predominate, and the bass is reproduced much worse. Expensive full-size models are far superior in sound quality even to their analogues, let alone the overhead version. Some of them create the complete illusion of being in the hall where the concert is taking place, you can even hear the sound of individual instruments, and sound effects smoothly flow from one earphone to another, giving the listener special pleasure.

No. 6 – JBL E55BT

Price: 3,600 rubles

The sixth place in the rating of wireless full-size headphones in 2020 is not for nothing that it is one of the most popular models. Users are delighted with the ergonomics, due to which the device can be used without discomfort for a long time. The sound quality is also pleasing - the frequency balance is maintained, the stage is spacious and clear, the bass sounds soft and velvety. For the price this is a real find.

You can control the headphones not only using the buttons located on the right earcup, but also using the remote control on the cable, where there is only one button. The only downside that comes to mind is the microphone, which, due to the lack of a sane noise reduction system, can only be used indoors. JBL E55BT

Principle of operation

The full-size version uses dynamic emitters with a moving coil; the operating scheme is quite simple: a magnet is rigidly attached to the device body, which creates a static magnetic field. Medium and high-level models use magnets with a complex alloy: neodymium, iron and boron.

An alternating current along with a modulated sound signal passes through the wire to the earphone; the coil is in a static magnetic field, which changes as the signal passes from the wire. The interaction of the magnetic fields of the magnet and the coil causes it to move, and its movement immediately causes the membrane to vibrate, which we perceive as sound.

For full-size options, membranes are made of mylar, cellulose, today the technology for manufacturing such thin and at the same time very durable products has been improved, and they are made of titanium. The better the membrane material, the better it transmits sound vibrations, and the user enjoys high sound quality.

The best monitor headphone companies

There are dozens of manufacturers producing monitor headphones. The best firms look like this:

Sennheiser is a popular German company founded back in 1945. Sennheiser headphones are reliable, durable, and have balanced sound characteristics;
AKG is an Austrian manufacturer founded more than 70 years ago. As a rule, they produce mid-budget equipment;
Sony is a Japanese company whose headphones are famous for their clear sound and reliable build;
Audio-Technica is another Japanese brand, one of the leaders in terms of producing audio equipment.

Characteristics

In the first place is the amplitude-frequency response (AFC) - this parameter is not indicated on the boxes, but this is where the main characteristics of any headphone model begin. Without going into details, this is the dependence of volume on sound frequency, their frequency response takes the frequency characteristics by which many determine the quality of the product, this value also shows the tonal balance. The range boundaries are the decrease in the frequency response at the minimum and maximum.

The range of transmitted frequencies is 20-20 thousand Hz, some manufacturers indicate a wider range, but this is marketing, gentlemen: a person cannot hear higher sounds, this is the lot of animals and dolphins - the intelligent population of the seas. Hearing gets worse with age, but older people hear bass just as well as young people.

Impedance or nominal resistance at the input of the product, many people use this parameter to determine the volume, but this is fundamentally wrong - it is more influenced by sensitivity paired with resistance. Portable headphones have an impedance of up to 100 ohms.

The most tricky criterion is sensitivity, it is usually indicated in relation to the power dB/mW, but it is better to take it from the frequency response in the ratio dB/V. One of the standards says that it is taken at 1 KHz, the other says to measure it in Hz. There is no standard here, so you should not rely 100% on this parameter.

No. 2 – Sony WH-1000XM3

Price: 23,000 rubles

Sony WH-1000XM3 are the developer's best headphones in terms of noise isolation. The system here works competently, subtly filtering the noise of the surrounding world so that it does not distract the user.

The model can be recommended for people who want to use headphones to regularly satisfy their music lover needs. It is perfect for any music, be it classical works or modern electronic music. In reviews, users note a well-developed frequency range and, most importantly, an abundance of bass.

Sony WH-1000XM3

The model is universal, that is, it can be used both with a wire and connected over the air. In the latter case, the owner will have two technologies at his disposal - NFC and Bluetooth. Both work properly at a distance of up to 10 meters. The autonomy of the model is also pleasing – it can work for 38 hours on a single charge. As for the disadvantages, it's only the cost.

Criterias of choice

The main factors in this regard:

The weight of the product - the lighter they are, the longer you can stay in them, although today manufacturers produce a special headband that does not put pressure, and the weight of the product is practically not felt.
Full-size or overlay option. Experts give preference to the first option, which has the following advantages:
- high quality and sound standard;
quality of materials;
comfortable placement of the headband.

Skeptics complain about the massive design, but products with folding headphones have already been released.

Open or closed type. The closed type is used mainly by professionals, but the second option is loved by music lovers, gamers and users for whom particularly high-quality sound is important.
Experienced music lovers advise choosing headphones based on sound quality.
With a wide range of 19-21943Hz and high sensitivity, these are good devices that will give you a lot of fun.

Each consumer makes a choice based on personal preferences, and experts advise before thoughtfully studying a review of the best models or their ratings over the past year.

What to look for when choosing?

All modern full-size headphones provide high-quality sound reproduction, but in order to choose the most suitable ones, before purchasing a headset you should evaluate the main parameters:

sound frequency - there are models supporting 20-22,000 Hz and 4-40,000 Hz;
resistance - the higher the indicator, the more powerful the sound source;
sensitivity - from 97 dB, the volume level depends on it;
operating time - wireless models can work up to 40 hours;
control type - buttons and sensor;
charging time is 2-3 hours, 10-15 minutes is enough to operate the device for 1 hour;
noise reduction - implemented in all modern models.

The best over-ear headphones - top 10 for 2021

Sony MDR-7506

pros

high strength of materials;
quality of connecting cord;
service life more than 5 years;
low weight;
compact dimensions, significantly reduced when folded;
complete sound insulation;
excellent detail and frequency balance.

Minuses

Disadvantages: none found.

From 6510 ₽

Average cost 6,510 ₽, full-size closed-type version, impedance 63 Ohm, membrane diameter 40 mm, connection via a 3.5 mm connector (mini Jack), sensitivity 106 dB, folding design. Made in Japan.

Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (80 Ohm)

pros

excellent quality crystal clear sound;
the bass is so powerful it tickles your eardrums;
no distortion at high sound power;
soft velor ear pads;
the headband does not press;
spiral-twisted wire of optimal length;
high reliability and quality of materials.

Minuses

strong sensitivity to recording quality;
the cable is not disconnected.

From 11380 ₽

Closed headphones for studios priced from 11.38 thousand rubles, sensitivity 96 dB, isolation 18 dB, resistance 80 Ohm, weight 270 g, headband pressure 3.5 N, twisted cable 3 m, gold-plated stereo connector, there is an adapter for 6 .35 mm. Manufacturer Germany.

Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 Over-Ear (M2 AEi)

pros

high-quality assembly;
good materials;
comfortable ear pads - genuine leather;
decent sound insulation;
stylish design;
The headband fits tightly and does not fidget while moving.

Minuses

you can hear the wind whistling outside;
cable quality.

From 13800 ₽

Closed-type headphones with an average cost of 13.8 thousand rubles are equipped with a microphone, impedance 18 Ohms, sensitivity 113 dB, iPhone support, folding design. The length of the detachable cable is only 1.4 m, manual playback control is 3 keys. weight 249 g, 2 year warranty, manufacturer in China.

Focal Listen

pros

high build quality;
stunning clarity of sound with detail;
good design;
convenient control;
sensitive microphone.

Minuses

insufficient equipment;
small bag for transportation.

From 9990 ₽

Over-ear headphones with a microphone at an average price of 9.99 thousand rubles, weight 273 g, dimensions 239x212x111 mm, 32 Ohm, 122 dB/V, cable 1.4 m, manufacturer France.

Technics RP-DJ1210

pros

balanced sound;
the design looks expensive and solid;
high-quality assembly;
excellent noise insulation;
high overload capacity.

Minuses

puts a lot of pressure on the ears.

From 8490 ₽

Headphones with customizable ear pads at an average cost of 8,490 ₽, 3 m twisted cable, 41 mm speakers with sensitivity parameters of 106 dB/mW, frequency 5 Hz-30 kHz, rated power 200 mW, impedance 30 Ohms. Manufacturer: Panasonic, Japan.

No. 9 – JVC HA-S70BT

Price: 3,400 rubles

Our rating of full-size headphones continues with the JVC HA-S70BT model. Among competitors at a similar price, it stands out for its decent sound quality with plenty of low frequencies. For this purpose, it even implements a special “Rich Bass” mode.

In addition to it, there are two more: “Normal” and “Clean Sound”. The headphones are also pleasing in terms of autonomy - they can work for 27 hours on a single charge.

JVC HA-S70BT

If you suddenly realize that a wireless connection is not for you, you can always connect the good old cable, which makes the headphones universal. Among the shortcomings, users note poor sound insulation.

Top budget over-ear headphones

Philips SHP1900

pros

the best option for a budget model;
good build quality and materials;
fits perfectly on the head;
do not rub the ears;
good balance of low and high frequencies;
durability (bought in 2008).

Minuses

poor sound insulation.

From 790 ₽

Full-size open-type headphones at an average price of 790 ₽, 32 Ohm, neodymium magnets, sensitivity 98 dB, weight 100 g, warranty up to one year, made under license from Holland in Chinese factories.

Sennheiser HD 201

pros

unbreakable reliability;
comfortable to wear;
the quality of construction is excellent;
excellent quality plastic;
good balance of frequencies.

Minuses

poor sound insulation.

From 1400 ₽

Monitor type dynamic product, average cost 1,400 rubles, 21-18 thousand Hz, up to 24 Ohms, sensitivity 108 dB, harmonic coefficient 0.7%, weight 165 g. Two-way cable connection, made in China.

Fischer Audio Wicked Queen

pros

clear sound;
juicy low frequencies without distortion;
original, effective design;
quality materials;
excellent sound insulation;
My neck doesn't hurt from long use and my ears don't sweat.

Minuses

I would like the material of the ear pads to be softer.

From 1900 ₽

Closed-type headphones of Russian design cost from 1900 ₽, impedance 40 Ohm, sensitivity 101 dB, membrane diameter 40 mm, mini Jack 3.5 mm connector, wire length 2 m, folding design.

Ritmix RH-510

pros

decent appearance;
quality assembly;
good sound insulation;
decent sound balancing;
durable wire, does not get tangled;
reasonable price for a budget model.

Minuses

Ears get tired and sweat quickly.

From 1400 ₽

Monitor product, cost on average 1,400 rubles, frequency 14-22 thousand Hz, resistance 32 Ohm, sensitivity 108 Ohm, detachable wire 3 m. Membrane diameter 38 mm, adapter for 6.3 connector included, manufacturer China.

Axelvox HD272

pros

high-quality sound;
wide frequency range;
robust design;
reliability;
good price-quality ratio;
decent sound insulation.

Minuses

leatherette ear pads.

From 2820 ₽

Model for professionals with an average price of 2,820 ₽, equipment: two cables, adapters for 3.5 and 6.3 mm, cable clamp, impedance 30 Ohm, sensitivity 98 dB/mW, membrane diameter 50 mm, weight 235 g.

No. 8 – CROWN MICRO CMBH-9320

Price: 2,900 rubles

The eighth line of our top full-size wireless headphones has a noticeable marking on each ear pad, so it won’t be possible to confuse where is left and where is right. For those who are looking for the most advantageous device for music in terms of price-quality ratio, this model will definitely suit you. Its upper frequencies are not raised, there is a distinct bass, more pronounced than other solutions at a similar cost.

Wireless connection can be made not only via Bluetooth, but also via NFC. In both cases, the connection is maintained stably and does not disappear. The build quality inspires confidence that after the first accidental fall the structure will not fall apart. The main feature is the ability to turn on the speaker mode by turning the left cup outward. CROWN MICRO CMBH-9320

Sennheiser HD 380 Pro with detachable cable

The device has a classic design and time-tested ergonomic characteristics, so it’s impossible to get tired with these headphones even when listening to your favorite music for a long time. The technical characteristics are of interest due to the upper frequency range, high sensitivity and decent noise insulation. The presence of a detachable cable and adapter in the kit provides additional advantages.

Reviews Review

Advantages:

wired;
operating range 8 – 27000 Hz;
ergonomics;
sensitivity 110 dB;
one-sided twisted cord 3 m long;
gold-plated straight plug - standard mini-jack;
adapter.

Flaws:

weight 220 g;
heavy cable;
the skin becomes foggy under the cups;
cost from 8000 rub.

5 best headphones under 1000 rubles

Dali IO-6

A new product from Danish Audiophile Loudspeaker Industries receives bronze. Most lovers of good sound rate their stationary acoustics very highly, so the first headphones in the history of the brand immediately attracted a lot of attention. And I can say for sure that the Danes have offered us such a charming little masterpiece.

Presentation and scope of delivery

The IO-6 also comes in a heavy, sturdy box. The kit is generous: a denim case with a hard frame, large but flat, Type-C charging cable, 3.5 wire, aircraft adapter.

Design and comfort

Visually, the headphones are very elegant and stylish. The materials used are the same, metal and plastic, the headband is flexible, covered with a pleasant fabric, the bowls rotate freely, but the assembly is perfectly durable. The soft leatherette ear pads are filled with memory foam; they cover the ear well, and even after long wearing the model does not tire at all. The only complaint I had was the lower glossy pad on the headband; it is easily soiled and does not feel particularly expensive. The rest of the design is just candy.

Technologies and characteristics

· Bluetooth codec support: SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD;

· Battery life: up to 30 hours;

Features of the model: active noise reduction, transparency mode, dust and moisture protection according to IP53 standard, voice prompts. The headphones are equipped with branded 50 mm speakers with a system of powerful neodymium magnets and cellulose diffusers; the sound adjustment was carried out by analogy with the famous Dali speakers.

Sound

As already said, the headphones are truly audiophile. They play lightly, airily and swiftly; there is a slight lack of weight throughout the entire range, but there is amazing precision and accuracy of elaboration. You can listen to micro-nuances, any background parts, overtones and after-sounds; wireless models rarely spoil us with this. However, I will note that there is a flavor element here, so it would be a good idea to listen to the IO-6 in person before purchasing. I also wrote a more detailed review about them, if you are interested, you can read it. By frequency. The bass is dry, but three-dimensional and elastic. The blow is not heavy, but confident, prominent and adequate in length. Although bassheads will most likely want a more noticeable accent and added mass. The middle is detailed, chiseled, highlighted. The timbres are neutral, clean and bright, there is a lot of air, excellent dynamics and liveliness. The stage is not bad both in width and depth. If the sound was a little softer, I would call it ideal. High frequencies are refined, finely defined, they are not cut off and have excellent resolution. Multi-instrumental compositions are revealed in all colors with Dali headphones.

Sennheiser Momentum M3 AEBTXL

Gold in my rating goes to headphones from the famous German ]Sennheiser[/anchor]. This 2021 model, in my opinion, combines the best that music wireless is capable of.

Presentation and scope of delivery

We are greeted by a large beautiful box. Accessories include a fabric case with a hard frame, somewhat similar to a cake wrapper, a charging cable, a 3.5 cable for connecting headphones to a source, an adapter from USB Type-C to a regular USB, and an airplane adapter.

Design and comfort

Without a doubt, the model looks incredibly stylish. Personally, for my taste, according to this criterion, it is the best in the selection. The wide headband and ear pads are covered with genuine leather, thick and soft, the design combines high-quality plastic and metal, and there is an unusual but convenient adjustment mechanism. The earpads are filled with memory foam, and among all seven headphones in the Zenkhov's top, they are the plumpest and most pleasant. In addition, the model is foldable, it can become extremely compact. There are also no complaints about the comfort of fit; the headphones cannot be called weightless, but they hold up well and provide good passive noise insulation. However, I wouldn’t recommend doing sports in them; the grip on the headband is still not that strong. And also keep in mind that the bowls only rotate vertically; wearing these headphones around your neck will not be very comfortable.

Technologies and characteristics

· Bluetooth codec support: SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Low Latency;

· Battery life: up to 17 hours;

Features of the model: adaptive noise reduction with three levels, “transparent” mode to hear surrounding sounds along with music, interaction with the Sennheiser Smart Control application, in which you can adjust the noise reduction and change the equalizer settings, Smart TILE technology, voice actions, automatic switching on when unfolded and switched off when folded. The controls are push-button, everything is intuitive, there is absolutely no delay during playback, the connection is stable, the “transparent” mode, in my opinion, is simply brilliantly implemented.

Sound

The character of the headphones is energetic, collected and bold. They play cleanly, volumetrically and energetically, with some kind of militant inspiration and passion. At the same time, the presentation is quite technical, detailed and fast; I was even surprised at how successful the sound tuning was done here. If anyone doubts whether to take these headphones, I think it makes sense to do so. The musical signature is not very tasteful, most users should like it, but there is also a share of audiophile sophistication here. As a result, it turned out to be very interesting and fun. The bass of the headphones is accentuated, percussive, elastic and drawn-out. More attention is paid to the sub, midbass does not creep into the middle and feels moderate. The mids are timbre-reliable, bright and clear, and there is an excellent balance in conveying the overall plan and highlighting nuances. The sound is transparent, but still rather solid, the stage is very good in width and depth. High frequencies are dry, but not too ringing, there are enough of them in quantity, they are not muffled or cut off, except for the very top layers, which is expected. In general, even I wanted to listen to music with this model from the Zenkhs for a very long time, even though I was initially in an ironic mood.

The biggest

Audeze LCD-X

pros

Clear surround sound
No amplifier required
Can be connected to any device using an adapter

Minuses

Heavy (weight 600 g.)

From 100,000 ₽

Audeze LCD-X are open, full-size headphones with high sound quality. Most of the elements of the device are made of metal, which ensures reliability and durability of the structure. The ear pads are equipped with large soft cushions that fit snugly to the ear. This makes using the headphones very comfortable.

Sennheiser HD 579

pros

Juicy sound
Replaceable ear pads
Ease of use

Minuses

Poor sound insulation
Large sound leak

From 10,800 ₽

Sennheiser HD 579 are open-back headphones, so they cannot boast of good noise insulation. They are ideal for listening to music at home. In this case, you can enjoy the excellent sound to the fullest. You should not use them on the street or in public transport: all extraneous sounds will be clearly audible.

Koss QZ99

pros

Build quality
Good sound
Excellent sound insulation
Comfortable headband and ear pads

Minuses

Short wire
Big size

From 4,000 ₽

Koss QZ99 are durable headphones with a good sound cancellation system. Metal elements make the design of the headphones durable. The twisted cord does not fray and is convenient to use. Koss QZ99 is suitable for those who want to be alone with their thoughts while listening to music.