Sennheiser Debuts Wired, Wireless Headphones
By Lisa Johnston -- TWICE, 11/23/2009
OLD LYME, CONN. — Sennheiser introduced a variety of new headphones this month in both the wired and wireless categories.
The first models in a series of wireless headphones — models RS 160, RS 170 and RS 180 — are all said to feature audio via uncompressed wireless transmission from Kleer.
The RS 180 can be used at a radius of up to 328 feet, while the RS 160 can be used up to 65 feet and the RS 170 up to 262 feet. Dynamic transducers with neodymium magnets and a distortion of 0.5 percent reproduce even the subtlest musical nuances, the company said. The frequency range is listed as 18,000Hz to 21,000Hz, with a sound pressure level of 110dB.
Other features include padded ear cups and adjustable headbands.
Suggested retail are as follows: RS 160, $259; RS 170, $329.95; and RS 180, $389.95.
The PX 210 BT portable mini headphones, equipped with Bluetooth and new Apt-X coding technology, has a transmission range of up to 33 feet and are said to weigh less than 4 ounces. The earpiece features audio controls, which can activate or deactivate the Bluetooth function, regulate the volume and navigate a playlist. The rechargeable lithium-polymer battery provides up to 12 hours of use before needing to be recharged, the company said.
Frequency response is listed at 15,000Hz to 22,000Hz. Sennheiser said its patented Duofol diaphragms almost entirely eliminate standing waves to reproduce brilliant highs and fast, tight low end with impeccable clarity.
The Apt-X coding technology for compressing audio data was originally developed for use in the professional audio and broadcasting sectors, the company said, claiming it is one of the first manufacturers to incorporate this technology into consumer headphones.
Suggested retail is $299.
Sennheiser also announced several models in its MM series of headsets. Each new model reportedly features the A2DP profile to deliver music, movies and conversations in stereo sound over a Bluetooth audio link.
The MM 100 is designed with an “ultra-light” neckband, while the MM 200 is a stereo Bluetooth lanyard headset with intuitive controls and a noise-reducing ear-canal construction.
The MM 400 stereo Bluetooth headset features an invisible microphone, padded ear-cushions and variety of connectivity options.
Finally, the MM 450 Travel is a stereo Bluetooth headset with NoiseGard 2.0 active noise cancelling technology. It also features a TalkThrough that's said to let user carry on a conversation without removing the headset.
Suggested retails for the MM series are as follows: MM 100, $259; MM 400, $269; and MM 450 Travel, $589.
All of these products are scheduled to be available in late November.
