10 Luxury Headphones You Should Know

January 12, 2024
Stephanie Valente
Written by
Stephanie Valente
Stephanie Valente
Lead Editor
Reviewed by
Lead Editor
Lead Editor

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How do sound and self care intersect? No, we’re not going to tell you to queue up a playlist of love songs (unless that’s your thing). But, we do have a suggestion or two that’ll improve your days — and nights — when it comes to feeling good.

Whether you listen to music solely for leisure and relaxation or 24/7, 365 days a week while you’re working (or work on your fitness), lounging, or just unwinding from the day, you might want to dive into the world of luxury headphones.

Yes, luxury headphones. Stylish, sleek, and artfully designed, these devices can bring any listening time to even greater heights. From sound quality to durability and style, top-end headphones have a lot to offer.

Keep scrolling to get the intel on all things luxury headphones.

What makes luxury headphones actually luxury?

To start, most audio enthusiasts note that luxury headphones give an unparalleled audio experience. But, what else sets these high-end headphones apart from mid-range offerings?

In fact, there’s quite a few details that make top-range headphones stand out.

  1. Luxury touches: Think soft leather earpads, metal finishes
  2. Elevated comfort: Comfortable wear is key, with padded headbands, added cushioning
  3. Replaceable parts: Repairs made easy with removable (and replaceable) parts like bands, cords, cables, ear pads, and so on
  4. Durability: High-end headphones are designed and manufactured with quality standards, and these devices can withstand regular wear and tear (which means, less replacing an entire set year in and year out, and just focusing on some replacements or repairs as needed)
  5. Tech and features: Sure, there’s most definitely going to be more bells and whistles in higher end products than more inexpensive offerings, but the science behind the tech can be more fine tuned and elevated (more info on that below)
  6. Sound quality: Last, but certainly not least, many luxury brands boast an unparalleled listening experience

So the cherry on top of this product can be in its extras. Many luxury headphones have unique features or add-ons that make them worth their while like specialized apps (for sound control and more), Bluetooth connectivity (multi-point connectivity as well), 3D sound support, water resistance (including sweat and dust), and noise cancelation.

Why should you consider a pair of luxury headphones?

Investing in luxury headphones just makes sense — from a practical standpoint and a technology angle. From high-end comfort details to replaceable parts for easy repairs, these headphones can offer even more comfort and durability. While their tech features elevate the listening experience, the long-term cost-effectiveness makes them a wise investment, sparing you frequent replacements on a new set.

Read on to see our picks for the best 10 luxury headphones.

Apple AirPods Max
For Apple Enthusiasts

Apple AirPods Max

Apple AirPods Max

$479.99
Listen to a demo
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BLUETOOTH CONNECTION
20 HOURS OF PLAYTIME
OVER EAR

Customer Review |“There are certainly cheaper headphones with equivalent sound quality, but these are well-constructed, comfortable for extended wear, have streamlined physical controls which are satisfying to use, and work hand in glove with an iPhone — it doesn't even shut off completely, it just senses when it's off your ears, and pauses playback.” - JoMo

Are you a big Apple fan? Look no further. While these over-the-ear headphones might be one of the cheaper options on this list, they still pack in a fair amount of luxury. Nearly every aspect of this wireless pair is design-led with a heavy focus on audio quality. From cushioned ear pads to a sleek signature Apple design, active noise cancellation (plus transparency mode for accurate sound filtration), spatial audio (for a surround sound quality), and five colors options, what’s not to like?

Soundly Scorecard
+
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Pros

Sound quality and isolation, appearance

Cons

Mixed reviews on comfort and heaviness

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On Amazon
Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Noise Wireless Headphones
Best Luxury Comfort Design

Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Noise Wireless Headphones

Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Noise Wireless Headphones

$694.72
Listen to a demo
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BLUETOOTH CONNECTION
30 HOURS OF PLAYTIME
OVER EAR

Customer Review | “The other area that the B&W PX8's really shine is on comfort. I have big ears that stick out a lot, and many over-ear headphones press my ears down in a way that gets uncomfortable. My wife's Sony XM5's are a great example — because they have such stellar ANC I like to borrow them for flights, but I can only wear them for a couple hours before my ears get physically sore. The PX8's have no such problem. They have large ear cups, and the angled drivers create a deep space in the back that gently cradles even my Dumbo-esque ears. I keep finding excuses to wear them, because they just feel so good.” - JD

With this Bowers & Wilkins pair you get plush Nappa leather and lightweight aluminum arms, a bouncy and supportive ear cushion fit, this wireless headset blends high-level comfort with an adjustable headband. Plus, you also get top notch noise cancellation and industry-defining audio performance.

Soundly Scorecard
+
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Pros

Comfort, noise cancellation, audio performance

Cons

A couple of reviews noted issues with app connectivity

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On Amazon
Bang & Olufsen BEOPLAY H95
Great Battery Life

Bang & Olufsen BEOPLAY H95

Bang & Olufsen BEOPLAY H95

$990.53
Listen to a demo
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BLUETOOTH CONNECTION
38 HOURS OF PLAYTIME
OVER EAR

Customer Review | “I've been using these headphones for about six or so months. Prior to owning these, I primarily listened to my AirPods Max whenever I wanted a decent over-ear headphone experience. While I enjoyed my APM, it sometimes made me desire a little bit more in terms of sound quality. With more reputable audio brands stepping into the fray of high quality wireless headphones, the first one I decided to try was B&O's H95. At first, it seemed as though it blew away what the APM was capable of. It had deep rich bass unlike any other headphone I'd heard, a surprisingly wide soundstage with impressive imaging, and most of all it just sounded extremely crisp. It was the first time in a long time that a headphone took me by surprise, which was a pleasant experience.” - Spyder2074

Crystal clear, impressive sound quality meets intuitive noise-canceling and crisp conversation tech. Loaded with four built-in microphones, two 40mm titanium drivers with neodymium magnets for powerful sound, and a long battery life. This headset also comes with a hardshell case for storage and protection.

Soundly Scorecard
+
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Pros

Long battery life, foldable design, great sound experience, sleek design

Cons

Some reported connectivity issues, headset feels heavy

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On Amazon
beyerdynamic Amiron Wireless Copper Hi-Res Bluetooth Headphones
Most Notable Listening Experience

beyerdynamic Amiron Wireless Copper Hi-Res Bluetooth Headphones

beyerdynamic Amiron Wireless Copper Hi-Res Bluetooth Headphones

$549.00
Listen to a demo
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BLUETOOTH CONNECTION
30 HOURS OF PLAYTIME
OVER EAR

Customer Review | “I am a professional musician, concert and recording artist and sound and music is my life. As far as Bluetooth can go, the Amirons are the closest example that comes to ‘musical perfection.’. They possess incredible detail from the lowest to the highest ends of the sound spectrum, in a perfectly blended and balanced way for a ‘liquid musical nirvana.’” - Petya

Want a great listening experience at home? Tap this headset. With notable clear and precise sound quality, elegant copper design elements, touchpad controls, 30-hour battery life, and personalized sound via an app, these Bluetooth headphones are a surefire bet. Now, for the listening experience, quite a few reviews highlight a superbly balanced audio quality, rich bass, and a natural timbre.

Soundly Scorecard
+
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Pros

Detailed sound experience, battery life

Cons

Reported heaviness which may cause discomfort

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On Amazon
Montblanc MB 01 Smart Travel Over-Ear Headphones
Everyday Luxury

Montblanc MB 01 Smart Travel Over-Ear Headphones

Montblanc MB 01 Smart Travel Over-Ear Headphones

$610.00
Listen to a demo
pause
BLUETOOTH CONNECTION
WIRED CORD
20 HOURS OF PLAYTIME
OVER EAR

Customer Review | “⁦Comfort-wise top notch! You can wear them the whole day without feeling any pressure points.” - Bran

Designed for busy days — and long ones, too — Montblanc crafted a pair of headphones that has a big premium on aesthetics with innovative tech, to boot. With comfy leather ear cushions, active noise cancelation (plus a proximity sensor), rich sound (engineered by world-renowned audio engineer Axel Grell), all with a customizable sound experience with the Montblanc app.

Soundly Scorecard
+
No items found.
Pros

Comfort, battery life

Cons

Some users felt the sound was comparable with headsets that are less pricey

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MEZE AUDIO 109 Pro
Lightweight Design

MEZE AUDIO 109 Pro

MEZE AUDIO 109 Pro

$799.00
Listen to a demo
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WIRED CONNECTION ONLY
OVER EAR

Customer Review | “The Meze 109 pro's are probably the most comfortable headphone I've ever tried. They also sound fantastic. Sound is subjective but they are great all around headphones and I think they have great bass for open back headphones.” - James

Prioritize comfort just as much as sound? Consider MEZE. These wired headphones make the reviews buzz for their great sound quality, bass, and lightweight design. With a stylish design and wooden ear cups, MEZE looks as good as it sounds. Comes with two cables, but the ear pads are polyurethane which is prone to peeling over time.

Soundly Scorecard
+
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Pros

Audio excellence, comfort

Cons

Polyurethane leather ear pads

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On Amazon
Focal Listen Professional
Most Reliable

Focal Listen Professional

Focal Listen Professional

$299.00
Listen to a demo
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WIRED CONNECTION
ON EAR
CONE TECHNOLOGY
STRONG ISOLATION

Customer Review | “These headphones are GREAT for long use. Similar to other reviews, they're unique in that you can use them for hours (at a reasonable volume) with little to no strain on your ears. The closed back also provides some noise insulation, leading to a more immersive experience.” - A.E.

If you want a top-notch pair that’s much-loved for its design and sound quality, Focal is it. Sleek, stylish, packed with very notable sound reproduction, and at the higher end of pricing, these studio headphones have good bass and clean audio. However, quite a few reviews noted that the padded headband causes discomfort during wear (one review felt discomfort within the first 30 minutes).

Soundly Scorecard
+
No items found.
Pros

Quality sound reproduction, design

Cons

Mixed reviews on comfort

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On Amazon
Audeze LCD-X Over Ear Open Back Headphone
Under $1,200

Audeze LCD-X Over Ear Open Back Headphone

Audeze LCD-X Over Ear Open Back Headphone

$1,199.00
Listen to a demo
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WIRED CONNECTION ONLY
OVER EAR

Customer Review | “The day I put these on after they came in was the day I felt my hair crease due to my inability to take these off. I have never heard something so close to a live concert experience wearing headphones or listening to speakers. With these, you wont need to research 192kb lossless, because mp3's on these sound better than lossless on any other headphone. Adding lossless to these and you feel something magical. The sound quality of the mids is surreal and the bass is extremely fast with no bleed due to the amazing planar magnetics, not to mention the highs are bright enough but never overwhelming.” - Chris

If you’re a professional musician or sound engineer, these Audeze headphones may just be what you’re looking for. With Planar Magnetic Drivers boasting a wide frequency response, deep bass, and luxurious leather ear pads all make for a sophisticated audio experience.

Soundly Scorecard
+
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Pros

Sound isolation, bass, comfy leather pads

Cons

Wired only

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On Amazon
Denon AH-D9200 Over-Ear Headphones
Under $1,600

Denon AH-D9200 Over-Ear Headphones

Denon AH-D9200 Over-Ear Headphones

$1,599.00
Listen to a demo
pause
WIRED CONNECTION ONLY
OVER EAR

Customer Review | “⁦I watched and read the reviews online and did a ton of research. No regrets about this purchase. With these, you can not only hear everything, but you can feel everything! I swear to you, I actually feel all the different frequencies from low to mid to high. Everything has a different feeling, and not just a different sound. But the sound is fantastic as well. Magic!” - SP

Crafted with a mix of metal, leather ear pads, and sustainable bamboo cups, these Japanese-designed headphones are manufactured with an ergonomic fit. And, this headset is renowned for well-rounded sound and unique 50mm FreeEdge drivers eliminate unwanted resonances and distortion for the most accurate sound reproduction possible.

Soundly Scorecard
+
No items found.
Pros

Bass, sound quality

Cons

Wired only

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On Amazon
Sennheiser HD 800 S Open-Back Audiophile Headphones and HDV 820 Amplifier
$3,000+

Sennheiser HD 800 S Open-Back Audiophile Headphones and HDV 820 Amplifier

Sennheiser HD 800 S Open-Back Audiophile Headphones and HDV 820 Amplifier

$3,698.95
Listen to a demo
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WIRED CONNECTION ONLY
OVER EAR

Customer Review | “⁦Very pleased with headphones. Sturdy build. Very comfortable to wear for hours. Broad sound stage, precision imaging. Highly recommended.” - Richard K.

And finally, the most expensive pair on our list. Complete with a vibration-damping chassis and 56mm Ring Radiator transducer delivers out-of-the-park, immersive acoustics. This headset comes with the HDV 820 amplifier and features a high-quality ESS SABRE32 DAC to deepen music enjoyment. It’s quite pricey, but the reviews note a truly exceptional sound experience.

Soundly Scorecard
+
No items found.
Pros

Overall sound experience

Cons

Wired only

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On Amazon
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