I'm just coming off the back of testing the Sennheiser HDB 630 — a pair of headphones that make sound quality their absolute first priority. Now, I, personally, really appreciate this focus on a particular feature, filling the headphones with EQ adjustment settings and some of the most impressive audio internals you'll find at their price.
But, speaking to my Tom's Guide colleagues, sound quality isn't everyone's no.1 priority. Some appreciate something that's more comfortable, some want out and out ANC performance to keep every single noise at bay — there are about as many answers as there are Tom's Guide writers and editors.
So that left me wondering. While I always thought that headphones were all about sound quality and everything comes secondary, there are almost certainly those who don't feel the same way. So I'd like to explain my love of the best headphones, and then find out what you, the reader, look for in your cans.
Everything comes down to sound
I adore listening to high-quality music. I like to hear every single detail in a track, from the movements of the artist's fingers on fretboards to sharp intakes of breath before a particularly long note. I want to listen to shifting, dynamic bass lines and effervescent high notes with their fleeting beauty. There is a misconception about some audiophiles that we use music as an excuse to buy evermore expensive gear, and that the equipment we use comes before the music we listen to.
That couldn't be further from the truth — at least, in my case. I love music. I spend most of my money heading to gigs and concerts, so that I can feel the music in my chest. The closest I can get to that experience at home the better.
I will happily forgo the likes of ANC and battery life in exchange for top-quality sound. They're useful features, although I've stopped using ANC while out and about as much, but they pale in comparison for my pursuit of amazing audio at home.
I'm extremely lucky. I get to try out some of the most desirable models of headphones, and then pen my opinion about them. As a result, I've been able to dial in the kind of sound that I love, something that not everyone is able to do. So — what do others look for when they read reviews and spec lists when they go to buy headphones?
Let's hear from you!
After learning that some people don't look for immaculate sound quality in their headphones, I've become curious about what people want from their cans. To find out, I've made a poll — I'd love to see what readers think! Perhaps you want some great ANC, or maybe comfort is your no. 1.
If you want to give more details, a quick comment to spark a conversation would be amazing. Help me understand what other people want out of their headphones.
