The onboard DAC/amp and active electronics were presented as important to unlocking the headphone’s best performance.
Pros: ANC effect on sound signature, Maximum volume clarity
Cons: Equalizer customization, Advanced software features
Best 2023 Headphones & Earbuds for Built-in DAC and hi-res playback
Release year
Hi-res playback support is praised where reviewers discuss 24-bit HDMI or 24-bit wireless headroom improving sound quality.
Pros: Positional audio accuracy, Soundstage width
Cons: Active noise cancellation, Hinge durability
USB-C audio and built-in playback capabilities were viewed positively for lossless or wired listening, with no hiss noted in one review.
Pros: Audio-video sync accuracy, Software/setup simplicity
Cons: Water/sweat resistance rating, 3.5mm analog input availability
Hi-res and DSEE/LDAC playback features were valued by several reviewers, though DSEE's audible impact was not universally convincing.
Pros: Weight comfort, Noise isolation (passive)
Cons: aptX, Find My
The built-in DAC and USB-C hi-res playback were praised for cleaner or more present wired sound, with some execution caveats.
Pros: Audio-video sync accuracy, Android compatibility
Cons: Water/sweat resistance rating, Auto-play/wear detection
Hi-res playback support was weak because the reviews noted no broad high-resolution audio support outside the headset exception.
Pros: Weight comfort, Charging
Cons: Smudge resistance, Android compatibility
Built-in DAC and hi-res playback were weak because one reviewer said these are not high-res headphones and advised looking elsewhere for that.
Pros: Multipoint connectivity reliability, Software/setup simplicity
Cons: LE Audio readiness, Smart Pause performance
Hi-res playback support was a repeated weakness in the scored evidence, with reviewers saying there is no hi-res or LDAC support.
Pros: Weight comfort, Charging
Cons: Water/sweat resistance rating, Wear detection performance