Forget discreet in-ear headphones; for the best sound quality and the biggest style statement you need a decent set of over-ear cans. Whether you want Bluetooth connectivity for wireless listening, surround sound mimicry for gaming, or top-notch noise cancelling, there’s a set of headphones here for you…
Best: Public transport
Blackbox M10
£89
Love: Compact and comfortable. Effective noise cancellation. Warm sound. Stereo adapter
Hate: Noise cancelling causes a slight hiss
Blackbox M10 review I Link: Blackbox
Best: Exercise
Jaybird Sportsband 2
£99
Love: Bluetooth. Secure fit. Built-in controls.
Hate: Low output level
Jaybird Sportsband 2 review I Link: Jaybird
Best: Music with bass
Monster Beats Pro by Dr Dre
£350
Love: Strikingly clear and open sound quality
Hate: By far the most expensive cans on test
Monster Beats Pro review I Link: Monster
Best: Gamers
Plantronics Gamescon 777
£80
Love: Good surround sound mimicry
Hate: Bass-heavy when playing music
Plantronics Gamescon 777 review I Link: Plantronics
Best: Statement makers
V-Moda Crossfade LP
£230
Love: Distinctive design. hands-free mic
Hate: Plasticky design. some audio leakage
V-Moda Crossfade LP review I Link: V-Moda
Best: DJs
Aiaiai TMA-1
£180
Love: Sensitive speakers. punchy bass. rugged, branding-free build
Hate: Laidback treble
Aiaiai TMA-1 review I Link: Aiaiai
Posted by Jim Hill
