Sonos is entering the high-end over-ear headphone market with the launch of their new Sonos Ace headphones. This marks the first time Sonos has produced headphones, with designs available in black or white finishes, featuring a padded headband and plush vegan leather ear cups. The headphones are designed for comfort, with soft memory foam in the headband and ear cups and a lightweight build of just 319g, ideal for extended listening sessions. The design is sleek, hiding the hinge between the headband and ear cups inside the cups themselves and adjusting to ensure equal pressure for each ear and a strong acoustic seal.
The Sonos Ace headphones also feature a unique Content Key button on the right cup, which allows users to adjust volume, play, pause, or skip tracks with a push or press. A standout feature of the headphones is the ability to seamlessly transfer audio from a Sonos Arc soundbar to the headphones, perfect for times when one person wants to watch TV while another wants peace and quiet. The headphones will also be compatible with other Sonos soundbars in the future, allowing for a more immersive audio experience with head tracking technology to maintain sound directionality.
In terms of audio quality, the Sonos Ace headphones are equipped with active noise-cancelling and support for spatial audio and Dolby Atmos. Sonos claims that a quick 3-minute charge can provide 3 hours of playback, with a full charge lasting up to 30 hours. Priced at $449 or £449 in the UK, the Sonos Ace headphones are slightly more affordable than the Apple AirPods Max, which are priced at $549 or £549 in the UK. The Sonos Ace headphones will be available for purchase starting June 5, offering a new option for consumers in the high-end headphone market looking for both quality sound and comfort in a stylish design.
Overall, the Sonos Ace headphones offer a compelling option for consumers seeking high-end over-ear headphones. With a focus on comfort, sleek design, and advanced features like active noise-cancelling, spatial audio, and Dolby Atmos support, the Sonos Ace headphones deliver a premium listening experience. The seamless integration with Sonos soundbars adds another layer of versatility, allowing users to easily switch between TV audio and personal listening. Priced competitively compared to other high-end headphone options, the Sonos Ace headphones provide a strong alternative for those looking for top-notch sound quality and features at a slightly lower price point.