It may be hard to believe, but before today one of the world’s most popular consumer audio brands didn’t do headphones. Sonos has just announced Sonos Ace, its very first entry into the headphones market, an over-the-ear set of wireless cans packed full of features and “the most precise and immersive home theater experience possible”, according to an announcement by the brand today.
Sonos Ace sport a very clean, modern look with a slim profile that adds to their overall sleekness, blending metal with matte plastics for a premium aesthetic that’s no doubt appealing to the kind of customer who’d consider buying AirPods Max. Indeed, just like the aforementioned headphones from Apple, the Sonos Ace fold in a similar flat manner for storage and include tactile, real buttons; but, unlike its competitor, Sonos is actually including a lightweight travel case, a simple nice-to-have inexplicably overlooked by Apple.
All of the modern features the best wireless headphones are expected to have are here. Sonos Ace includes “world class” noise cancelling and transparency modes, as well as “breathtaking” hi-resolution wireless audio, perfect for people with Tidal and other hi-res streaming subscriptions. Sonos has even included its own version of spatial audio, something that’s grown in popularity in recent years, and helping to keep the headphones going for a long time is a 30-hour battery life that can be revived in emergencies with just three minutes charging delivering three hours of playback.
As well as great sound, Sonos claims its Ace headphones focus on comfort, using a “pillowy soft” foam wrapped in vegan leather for the ear cups for what the brand calls a “wearing nothing” feeling. These ear cups are fully replaceable, too, adding to the brand’s sustainability credentials, while Sonos claims to have used 17% less virgin plastic with the Ace compared to other devices in its line up. Even the case we mentioned previously is part of the Sonos’ circularity ambitions and is crafted from 75% recycled felt derived from post-consumer waste plastic bottles.
Best known for its smart speakers and pioneering integrated audio ecosystem, Sonos fans have been waiting a long time for the brand to release its debut headphones. The brand even acknowledged in its press release today with CEO Patrick Spence stating: “They’re here!”
The new Sonos Ace headphones launch on June 5 and will be available in both a ‘Black’ and a ‘Soft White’. You can pre-order the headphones now via the brand’s website priced at £449 GBP / $449 USD.
Brendan Martin is a tech enthusiast with a deep understanding of the latest technological innovations. He explores the intersection of science and technology, providing readers with insights into the digital revolution. When not immersed in the world of gadgets and code, Brendan enjoys experimenting with DIY tech projects.
