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With so many wireless noise-canceling headphone choices, how do you stand out from the crowd? For DALI — Danish Audiophile Loudspeaker Industries — the answer is: stick to the same guiding philosophy that makes their high-end speakers so distinct. Their IO-12 over-ear headphones are gorgeously designed and deliver a refined, textured sound with brilliant high-end clarity and substantial bass punch.
Even the active noise-canceling circuitry is in service to the sound quality — it sets a low noise floor for the 50mm dynamic drivers to do their thing. DALI capped the driver magnets with their patented SMC (soft magnetic compound) disks to help reduce mechanical distortion. This creates a relaxed, uncolored midrange that's high on detail, without fatiguing your ears.
Like DALI speakers, these headphones look attractive from a distance and hold up to closer examination. Each detail and design touch is punctuated by a fine material. Premium metals, fabrics, and stitching give them a satisfying hand feel and a relaxed fit on the head. And the soft leather ear pads are roomier than most.
An exploded view of the 50mm drivers and advanced circuitry
These are primarily wireless headphones, and the newer, more reliable Bluetooth 5.2 is on board. Premium Bluetooth formats aptX™, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD are also supported with compatible devices, helping retain more musical detail. There's no mobile app, but you can choose between two different listening modes: the more linear-tuned "Hi-Fi" mode or "Bass" mode for more low-end emphasis.
There are also several wired listening options, including traditional 3.5mm miniplug cables in two different lengths. So you can connect to a portable high-res player or dedicated headphone amp/DAC with that or the included 1/4" adapter. You can also make a digital connection and listen with the included USB-C to USB-A charging cable.
