Sennheiser Urbanite XL headphones offer dynamic sound with quality bass, writes Siti Syameen Md Khalili
SENNHEISER is popular with audiophiles for its superb sound quality.
This brand tends to choose function over style to please the ears before the eyes.
However, with the launch of Momentum earlier this year and now Urbanite, Sennheiser is quickly changing that perception.
Available in multiple colours, the Urbanite range offers two models - Urbanite and Urbanite XL - and both come in versions that are compatible with iOS or Android devices.
Our review unit is the Urbanite XL which sports the Nation colour option and is made for iOS devices.
This overthe- ear model weighs 793g and features foldable ear pieces and a highly bendable headband.
The earpieces are large enough to qualify the XL moniker, and the cushion as well as inner lining of the headband are velvety, guaranteeing comfort for long usage.
A closer look reveals that the headband and earpieces are connected using matte metal hinges and plastic straps, reinforcing the unit’s collapsible formfactor.
Adjusting the height of the earpieces is easy as the slider allows for smooth movement and holds the cups in place effortlessly.
The 3.5mm jack cable is flat and thick, made it this way to ensure it does not tangle easily.
Though detachable, the locking mechanism featured on the Urbanite XL’s left earpiece requires a twist, quickly securing the cable to the headgear.
Along the cable, the remote and microphone unit or Smart Remote is placed at a spot that ensures effective ear-to-mouth ratio.
Such a distance is comfortable for mic use in taking calls from your iOS device, but music lovers may find the design a little too similar to the hands-free kit that comes with a smartphone.
As with many over-the-earheadphones, the noise cancellation is aided greatly by the thick cushions.
Once the music plays, the stereo sound is highly immersive.
Using tracks such as Cristal (Yo-Yo Ma), Rest In Peace (Extreme) and All About That Bass (Meghan Trainor), the Urbanite XL proves that it can perform as promised.
Apart from soothing deep bass, treble and vocal sounds are wholesome to the ear too.
Playing around with the player’s equaliser, the unit is highly responsive and delivers honest enough audio to appease discerning ears.
On the go, the Urbanite XL falls into step without missing a beat.
The passive noise-cancellation may be a little dangerous as it works very well to block sounds thus making users, especially those who love their music loud, not quite aware of their surroundings.
However, avoid being too generous with the volume and this problem is solved.
Connecting it to an iOS device expands the functionality of the Smart Remote.
The middle button can be pressed twice to skip to the next song while a press and hold can activate voice command.
For supporting calls, simply hold the same button down for a couple of seconds to pick up or end a call.
There are more tricks to learn as this button is programmed to execute more commands through multiple presses, or press and hold combos.
Note that some of these quirky, Morse Codelike interaction with the button may not work on certain iOS devices.
A ll considered, Sennheiser Urbanite XL is a compelling audio peripheral package.
Users can expect good sound output encased in a stylish formfactor that is also simple to use and easy to lug around.
For those familiar with Sennheiser as a premium brand, the price will likely be another attractive point to consider.
Perhaps the real dilemma would be picking a colour, as Black, Denim, Sand and Olive are just as trendy as Nation.
Sennheiser Urbanite XL
(iOS version)
Price: RM969
Website: www.sennheiserasia.com
Our verdict: HHH
Physical design: HHHH
Documentation: HHH
User-friendliness: HHHH
Features: HHH
Performance: HHH
Value for money: HHHH