Sennheiser goes wireless for audiophiles

Sennheiser is gearing up to launch its first audiophile Bluetooth in-ear headphones, due to hit shelves in mid-August.

The new neckband headphones (IE 80S BT) take sound elements from the popular IE 80S earbud headphones and use them in a wireless model that supports high-resolution audio.

The IE 80S BT also introduces connected features, as well as wireless listening. Listeners can use the Sennheiser Smart Control App to customise their headphones, with additional one-touch access to virtual assistants like Siri and Google Assistant.

Sound

The IE 80S BT supports high bitrate codecs including LHDC, aptX HD, and AAC.  This means that for audiophiles who like music uncompressed, these headphones can play back music on par with what wired headphones can do.

Sound quality is also enhanced by an AKM DAC, which delivers Sennheiser's dynamic speaker system performance. That speaker system features 10mm drivers and neodymium magnets for sonic accuracy and clarity. Support for aptX Low Latency also allows for perfect synchronization with video content.

Finally, the Sennheiser Smart Control app provides a 5-band equaliser to get your music sound just right – or users can use the bass adjustment tool on the earphone directly.

Connectivity

Sennheiser's IE 80S BT headphones feature high-quality microphones with noise reduction technology that are optimally positioned to ensure crystal clear capture of speech for undisturbed telephone calls and communication with voice assistants.

This means users can take advantage of one-touch interaction with all common voice assistants via a dedicated voice assistant access button.

Design

These headphones will provide approximately 6 hours battery life, according to Sennheiser.

The supplied selection of ear adapters made from silicone, silicone lamellar and ComplyTM Memory Foam come in a choice of three sizes, so users have the right fit and block out external noise. The ear hooks are also flexible, with a soft touch finish.

The Bluetooth neckband component can be detached so the earphones can be used with an optional cable accessory, if users would rather use wired connectivity.

"The IE 80S BT earphones have been meticulously crafted to the most demanding standards," says Sennheiser Audiophile product manager Ronja Harste.

"They not only meet Sennheiser's exacting criteria for a high-end audio product and match the exceptional performance of their wired predecessor, but also offer a real wireless option for refined audiophiles who don't wish to compromise on sound quality.

The IE 80S BT will be available from mid-August.

Australian pricing: RRP $799.95

New Zealand pricing: RRP $899.95.