I am one of those “old dogs” that hates the idea of modern devices removing the headphone jack. At first, it was my disdain towards certain companies with cult-like customers who will happily spend all their money for anything with a particular logo on it. However, time’s arrow neither stands still nor reverses, it merely marchers forward, and it seems that many of the major tech manufacturers are following suit and releasing their latest devices sans-jack. With that in mind, it’s time for CGMagazine to let our readers know which Bluetooth headphones are the best of the bunch and this article will examine the Sennheiser HD 4.40BT over-the-ear wireless headphones.
First off, let’s get the technical specs for the Sennheiser HD 4.40BT headphones out of the way for you audiophiles out there.
Frequency response is 18–20,000Hz with an Impedance rating of 18Ω, which makes for solid sound on your mobile devices. The sound pressure level (SPL) is 113dB, which is pretty high for headphones and makes for some loud sound. It also features a dual microphone for when you need to take a call, and a fantastic Li-ion battery which promises a 24-hour charge. As well, the 4.40s contain a Bluetooth receiver with NFC pairing compatible with SBC, AAC, and aptX codecs.
One of my favourite inclusions on the Sennheiser HD 4.40BT wireless headphones is the optional 2.5mm to 3.5mm headphone jack and cable. Even though these headphones are Bluetooth focused, it’s lovely to have the ability to switch to a wired connection which can provide slightly better sound range. Granted, if you’re using an amplifier or simply playing Spotify tunes from your phone will also impact the quality of the sound, but it’s a negligible difference for the average user.
Battery life was a key issue that kept me away from Bluetooth headphones in the past. I loathe the idea of having to charge something that for my entire life required nothing more than simply plugging into a device. In this department, the Sennheiser 4.40BT exceeded my expectations. On the box, the device promises 25 hours of battery life on a two-hour charge. I would throw them on a charge before I got to bed, and used them the entire day and never once had them die on me. I can’t attest to the full 25 hours, but from morning to evening with steady use on high volume the Sennheiser HD 4.40BT wireless headphones cranked the sound without stopping. Considering the size and sound output on these headphones, that’s pretty impressive.
The Sennheiser HD 4.40BT wireless headphones are also extremely light, which is important for closed circumaural devices. They don’t feel cheap or flimsy, and maintain a solid build quality and comfortable headband and cups that fit snugly on the ear without squishing and little in the way of pressure points. The band did exert some pressure over time on the top of my head, but I rarely use headphones of this type so I’m sure this was partly due to me not being used to the feeling.
Connecting to devices is a snap with the Sennheiser HD 4.40BT wireless headphones, and a fun little robot voice will tell you when you’re connected. From there, pausing songs, changing them, adjusting volume, and taking a call is done by a little switch and button located on the bottom of the right headphone. Once connected, the only time I had an issue with reception or interruption was in the convention hall for Quakecon, which I’m attributing to the fact that there were thousands of other devices also using Bluetooth connections. In regular daily use, whether walking the dog or riding the subway, once the Sennheiser HD 4.40BT wireless headphones were paired I had zero issues.
Retailing for $149.99 CAD, the Sennheiser HD 4.40BT wireless headphones are decently priced for the quality they offer and won’t break the bank. The bass has solid kick and the mids and highs punch pretty well, especially using the aptX codec or an amplifier. The battery life is absolutely fantastic, and were a major convincing point for someone like myself who is constantly on the move and is often neglectful when charging devices. Lightweight and comfy—for the most part—they also fold up for easy storage in a bag or purse. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better pair of headphones that offer great sound, great battery life, and easy use in this price range.
A retail version of this device reviewed was provided by the manufacturer. You can find additional information about CGMagazine’s ethics and review policies and procedures here.
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