B&O Play Beoplay H8i Review
B&O Play has two new pairs of noise-canceling Bluetooth headphones, and both are more expensive than the leader in the category, the QuietComfort 35 II from Bose. The $399 on-ear Beoplay H8i headphones are the less expensive of the two, and we actually prefer them slightly to over-ear Beoplay H9i, which cost $100 more. Neither model can match Bose's top-of-the-line noise cancellation performance, but if audio (or a stylish design) is more of a priority, the Beoplay H8i is a pair worth considering.
Design
Available in beige-and-gray or black models, the supra-aural (on-ear) Beoplay H8i headphones look stylish and luxurious, with different types of leather used on the headband and earpads. The on-ear fit is quite comfortable—the earpads are generously cushioned with memory foam, and the headband, which looks less padded, is still quite easy on the scalp in terms of pressure or long-term fatigue. The earcups, which block out a solid swatch of room noise passively, manage to create an...
The on-ear B&O Play Beoplay H8i headphones deliver strong, balanced Bluetooth audio and solid noise cancellation for a high price.
Strong audio performance with deep bass response and crisp, bright highs; Good noise cancellation; Transparency mode lets you hear your surroundings; Free app has adjustable EQ
Expensive; Auto-pause/play function gets old quick