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Some audiophiles will spend up to 1K on a wireless headphone. But most of us just need a the convenience of a wireless setup for our commute or the office. The good news is that you can buy a high quality wireless headphones for under 500 bucks and still be entirely satisfied. We’ve chatted with our sales associates and reviewers to find out what their favorite Bluetooth cans are in terms of sound, design and functionality. The following 5 models won hands down.
Sony WH-1000XM5
Price: $349
The WH-1000XM5 is probably the best selling wireless headphone on the market. And with good reason. It’s got a balance that satisfies the masses, regardless of whether you’re into pop or classical music. The bass is solid and energetic, and overall it produces a really lush and full bodied sound. The WH-1000XM5 also presents a really fun soundstage with decent dimension and color. Of course, the effectiveness of the ANC is a major element that makes these cans such a big seller. But what really sets the WH-1000XM5 apart from the competition is the ample functionality it offers through Sony’s accompanying app. It gives you complete control over your equalizer settings, and offers plenty of options for managing the ANC. Our favorite sales associate raved about the ambient mode that automatically turns down the volume when outside sounds approach. Great for looking alert when the boss comes to check on you.
Buy the Sony WH-1000XM5 at Audio 46
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
Price: $399
Bowers & Wilkins are the luxury brand when it comes to anything audio. So, if you’re looking to get the BMW of wireless headphones these are the ones to buy in the under $500 price range. Just like the label, the sound on the PX& S2 is refined and classy. You can expect a civilized balance with no bass overkill, as well as higher frequencies that are polite to the ears. The sound signature is smooth, controlled and detailed. And as an audiophile who likes to poo-poo hyped up cans, I didn’t really want to take these off my head. With solid ANC, 30 hours of battery life, and a look and feel that whispers, “I’ve made it,” these cans might be one of my guilty pleasures in this price range.
Buy the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 at Audio 46
Sennheiser Momentum 4
Price: $349
Soundstage, soundstage and more soundstage. If you like it big, these are the ones to buy. Fantastically wide imaging on these cans, just play Lizzo’s “Juice” and you’ll be convinced. In addition, you’ll get all the other sound qualities one expects from this famous German brand. A tastefully lush profile, superior articulation, a natural timbre, are all what define the Momentum 4 for me. Sennheiser could have probably put a $400 price tag on the cans, so at $349, I think this is the best deal on the market.
Buy the Sennheiser Momentum 4 at Audio 46
Shure Ionic 50
Price: $299
The Ionic 50 might not have the absolute best ANC on the market, but fans of Shure will not be disappointed with the sound quality. Much like the above headphones, the balance on these headphones is versatile enough to suit most musical genres. But unlike the Sony WH-100XM5 or the Sennheiser Momentum 4, the low end is a lot more conservative. So, for those who get annoyed by heart pumping low frequencies, the Ionic 50 is a refreshing alternative. In addition, the Ionic 50 is just well built, offering thick, plush ear pads and a solid frame. Another solid buy.
Buy the Shure Aonic 40 at Audio 46
Final Audio UX3000
Price: $149.95
Given the low price of the UX3000, we almost didn’t want to include it in the Under $500 list. But the sound is such a crowd pleaser that we had to mention it. Final Audio is famous for producing stellar audiophile sound. Furthermore, they always offer solid options for those on a tight budget. The UX3000 is one such headphone, showing off the tight and polished signature that makes the brand so damn good. Punchy and dynamic, there’s an undeniable liveliness to these cans that makes genres like funk and pop incredibly fun. Of course, for this price, you won’t get the super high level of ANC that you would on a Sony WH-1000XM5. But come on, it’s 150 bucks. So, if you’re prioritizing sound quality over ANC, then the UX3000 is a fantastic buy.
