Bang & Olufsen has once again pushed the boundaries of luxury audio with its latest flagship headphones, the Beoplay H100. Priced at a premium $1,549, these headphones aim to justify their cost with cutting-edge technology, premium materials, and a focus on sustainability.
Advanced Features and Premium Design
The Beoplay H100 boasts several impressive features:
- 40mm custom-made titanium drivers for superior sound quality
- Support for high-resolution 96kHz/24-bit audio
- Dolby Atmos spatial audio with head tracking
- Advanced noise cancellation powered by 10 microphones
- Haptic dial for adjusting transparency modes
- Touch interface made from scratch-resistant hardened glass
- Premium materials including lambskin leather ear cushions
Sustainability and Repairability
In a move towards sustainability, Bang & Olufsen has designed the H100 with user-replaceable parts:
- Easily detachable and replaceable ear pads and headband cushions
- Key components designed for easy repair or replacement
- Upgradeable software platform for future feature additions
This focus on repairability could potentially extend the lifespan of these high-end headphones, addressing concerns about electronic waste.
Battery Life and Charging
While the H100's 32-hour battery life (with ANC on) is slightly less than its predecessor, it offers:
- Quick charging: 5 minutes for 5 hours of playback
- Automatic power management similar to Apple's AirPods Max
- 90 days of standby time in low-power mode
Pricing and Availability
The Beoplay H100 is available now for $1,549 / £1,299 (approximately AU$2,500) in three color options: Infinite Black, Hourglass Sand, and Sunset Apricot.
The Verdict
Bang & Olufsen's Beoplay H100 represents a bold step in luxury headphone design, combining high-end audio technology with a focus on sustainability. While the price point may be prohibitive for many consumers, the emphasis on repairability and premium features could appeal to audiophiles looking for a long-term investment in their listening experience. As we await hands-on reviews, it remains to be seen whether the H100's performance will justify its substantial price tag in the competitive high-end headphone market.