The newly announced Beoplay H100 headphones from Bang & Olufsen come with a hefty price tag of $1,549, making them even more expensive than their predecessor, the H95, which currently retails for $999. The company justifies this steep pricing by emphasizing the use of premium materials, improved noise-cancellation technology, and enhanced repairability features. While high-quality materials like lambskin leather and scratch-resistant glass are nothing new for Bang & Olufsen, it remains questionable whether these features alone justify such a drastic increase in price.
The Beoplay H100 headphones boast a range of advanced features, including a pair of 40-millimeter “custom-made titanium drivers” for superior sound quality. These headphones also support high-resolution 96kHz/24-bit audio and Dolby Atmos spatial audio with built-in head tracking, promising an immersive listening experience. Additionally, the active noise-cancellation technology has been upgraded to include 10 microphones, claiming to double its performance. However, it is important to note that many of these features are becoming standard in high-end headphones, raising questions about the uniqueness of the Beoplay H100.
One area where the Beoplay H100 falls short is in its battery life, offering 32 hours of playback with ANC activated, compared to the H95’s 38 hours. Furthermore, enabling spatial audio and head tracking further reduces the battery life by an additional two hours. While the headphones automatically power on when worn and enter a low-power mode when removed, similar to Apple’s AirPods Max, the lack of a physical power button may be a concern for some users. The inclusion of a five-minute quick charge feature providing five hours of playback is a convenient addition, but it may not be enough to compensate for the overall battery life limitations.
Despite the exorbitant price tag, the Beoplay H100 headphones are only available in three colorways: infinite black, hourglass sand, and sunset apricot. This limited selection may be disappointing for consumers who value customization and personalization options when purchasing premium products.
The Beoplay H100 headphones from Bang & Olufsen offer a range of advanced features and technologies, but their high price tag and questionable justifications may deter potential buyers. While the emphasis on premium materials and improved repairability is commendable, it remains to be seen whether these aspects truly justify the inflated cost of the product. Additionally, the limited battery life and color options may further limit the appeal of these headphones to a broader audience. Ultimately, consumers should carefully consider their priorities and preferences before investing in the Beoplay H100 headphones.
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