Bang & Olufsen introduces Beoplay H100: A Fresh Take on Headphone Design

Bang & Olufsen’s Beoplay H100: A New Era of Sound

In a world where headphones often feel like an afterthought, Bang & Olufsen is stepping up to redefine what premium audio can be. Today, the Danish audio powerhouse launched the Beoplay H100, a flagship model that draws from nearly a century of design and engineering expertise. If you’ve ever marveled at the clarity of a Beolab speaker, you might be curious about how this new offering stacks up.

The Beoplay H100 isn’t just a sequel to the well-received H95; it’s a bold leap forward. Bang & Olufsen’s CEO, Kristian Teär, describes it as a culmination of their legacy—a promise of “beautiful sound built to last.” But what does that really mean for the everyday listener?

Design That Speaks Volumes

First off, let’s talk aesthetics. The H100 comes in three colorways: Infinite Black, Hourglass Sand, and Sunset Apricot. Each shade seems to tell its own story, with Infinite Black evoking a classic elegance and Sunset Apricot adding a splash of warmth. Honestly, picking a favorite might be the toughest decision you face when considering these headphones.

But it’s not just about looks. The materials used are top-notch, from the silky, scratch-resistant glass touch interface to the soft lambskin leather earpads. I had a chance to try them on, and let me tell you, they feel as good as they look. The detachable inner headband, crafted from breathable knitted textile, makes you forget you’re even wearing them—perfect for those long listening sessions.

Sound That Takes Center Stage

Now, onto the heart of the matter: sound quality. The Beoplay H100 boasts custom-made 40 mm titanium drivers that promise Hi-Res audio, which means you’re getting sound quality that can reach up to 96 kHz/24 bits. If you’re wondering what that means, think of it as being able to hear every tiny detail in your favorite tracks—like the subtle strum of a guitar or the faint rustle of a breeze in the background.

But it’s not all about the music. The active noise cancellation (ANC) has reportedly doubled in performance compared to the H95, making it easier to tune out the chaos of daily life. Imagine being on a crowded train, and with just a flick of a switch, you can envelop yourself in your own personal sound sanctuary.

Tech That Makes Life Easier

What’s refreshing about the H100 is how intuitive it is. The headphones automatically detect when you’re wearing them, so there’s no fumbling for a power button. Plus, the innovative EarSense technology tailors the audio experience to your unique fit in real time. It’s like having a personal sound engineer right there with you. And for those moments when you need to hear your surroundings, the TrueTransparency feature lets you switch seamlessly from immersive sound to awareness mode with just a twist of a dial.

And let’s not overlook the battery life. With quick charging capabilities, just five minutes plugged in gives you five hours of playtime. That’s perfect for those rushed mornings when you’re running out the door.

A Commitment to Sustainability

In an age where sustainability is becoming non-negotiable, Bang & Olufsen is also making strides. The H100 is designed with longevity in mind, featuring user-replaceable parts and serviceable components. This means you can easily swap out worn earpads or even get to the battery without needing a degree in engineering. Plus, the headphones are built on cradle-to-cradle principles, which is a fancy way of saying they’re designed to be reused and recycled, minimizing waste.

The company is so confident in their craftsmanship that they offer a three-year warranty, extendable to five years through their Beocare program. That’s a commitment to quality that should resonate with anyone who’s ever felt burned by a flimsy pair of headphones.

Pricing and Availability

So, what’s the catch? The Beoplay H100 comes with a premium price tag of €1,499 (about $1,549). They’ll be available in Bang & Olufsen stores and online starting September 3, 2024. It’s a significant investment, but if you’re someone who values sound quality and design, it might just be worth it.

Final Thoughts

As I reflect on my time with the Beoplay H100, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement. These headphones are more than just a piece of tech; they’re a statement about the future of audio. With a blend of thoughtful design, technology, and a commitment to sustainability, Bang & Olufsen seems poised to lead the charge into a new era of listening.

So, are you ready to elevate your audio experience? Because the Beoplay H100 is here to make that happen.

Technology Explained

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ANC: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is a technology that is used to reduce unwanted background noise in a variety of applications. It works by using microphones to detect the ambient noise and then producing an inverted sound wave to cancel it out. This technology is used in many computer applications, such as headphones, speakers, and sound cards. It is also used in noise-cancelling headphones, which are designed to reduce the amount of background noise that reaches the user's ears. ANC is also used in soundproofing applications, such as recording studios and soundproofed rooms. By reducing the amount of background noise, ANC allows for clearer sound recordings and improved sound quality.

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