Notes on purchasing stereo headphones

Choose the appropriate connection based on the devices.

In terms of products that can be connected to stereo headphones, the market is currently extremely broad, including TVs, computers, cellphones, PS5 home game consoles, and so on. As a result, it includes multiple connectivity options such as HDMI, USB, and Bluetooth pairing. LCD TVs, for example, often transmit sound via HDMI, and USB connections are available for PS5 and PC; as for smartphones, tablets, and so on, Bluetooth pairing is pretty simple. Make careful to select the appropriate type for each device.

In terms of sound quality and detailed performance, a cable connection can give a bigger and more reliable frequency and bandwidth than a wireless connection. Furthermore, certain models include extra host devices that are wirelessly connected to the matching headphones through HDMI, allowing you to enjoy surround sound. Nevertheless, because it is a package deal, headphones cannot be connected to cell phones or other devices separately. Please thoroughly review the required specifications to avoid purchasing an incompatible type.

The number of channels does not imply superior performance; instead, consider the sound quality and resolution.

The stereo feel and overall detail performance that can discern the direction of the sound are the most significant features of stereo headphones. This portion is dependent on the product specs and acoustic adjustment technology and requires special attention.

1. Choose the product that can fully restore the details of the sound source, depending on the sound quality and resolution

Each stereo headset is tuned differently, the sound tonality will be very different, and can be selected according to personal preference. The only objective criterion that can distinguish the quality of headphones may be the resolution that fully restores the details of the sound. The higher the resolution, the better the product can restore the details of background music, sound effects, footsteps, etc., thus having a realistic sense of presence. As for the type of low resolution, all the sounds may be mixed and cannot be effectively identified, and the experience is naturally bad.

As the resolution needs to listen to feel the difference, it is recommended to refer to the online evaluation, or go to the test store to listen, so that it is easier to filter out the style and model that meets the preferences.

2. Please note that some 7.1-channel headphones may lack a stereo effect

Choose stereo headphones, naturally, to enjoy the excellent feeling of being there in person, so the surround sound effect is good, and the accuracy of the sound direction is also a very important factor to consider. Excellent headphones can not only clearly distinguish between the front and rear of the sound sources such as left and right direction. And you can also hear the helicopter flying overhead, ringing in your ears or the sound of a cell phone or musical instruments can be perfectly rendered, in watching movies or listening to live concerts will have a very strong sense of the scene.

However, due to limited headphone space, most use virtual multi-channel software correction to make up for the shortfall. So you can not use 5.1, 7.1, 9.1, and other multi-channel specifications to judge the quality of goods, must depend on the processing power of the relevant technology. Otherwise, even though it simulates 7.1 channels, it sounds stiff, and watching movies may be tedious.

3. Confirm the ease of use, Bluetooth pairing connection is relatively easy

To adjust the most optimal stereo channel performance, certain professional stereo headphones require precise variables such as head shape and ear size to be measured before usage. This may hinder some new users, thus convenience is also important to consider. Because portable devices like smartphones are so prevalent, Bluetooth pairing is not only extensively utilized but also fairly simple to connect, unlike USB headphones, which require detailed tweaks to the required settings.

But Bluetooth pairing lacks a high-frequency bandwidth and cannot fully transmit signals with surround sound. Yet, models such as Apple's AirPods Max contain proprietary technology that uses spatial analysis to recreate a three-dimensional audition experience. However, these headphones may only support specific brands or devices. Be sure to check the details when purchasing.

4. Choose an over-ear material that can be worn for long periods

When watching movies or playing games, wear headphones for a relatively long time. Even if the headset itself sounds great, it will lose its value if the clip-on or ear cups are too stuffy to wear for long periods. Some goods will be specifically redesigned ear cups and headband materials, the use of elastic headband to decrease the sense of pressure, with ear cups can be soft to fit the ear, substantially lowering the side pressure and overall weight, even if the long time usage is extremely comfortable.

While fashion sense is difficult to explain in words or on video, each person's head shape is unique. If you are concerned about wearing comfort, it is recommended that you visit a physical store to try on and choose the most appropriate goods.