Sonos has officially entered the headphone market with the launch of the Sonos Ace ($449), a model that promises refined design and impressive audio quality. The headphones integrate well with Sonos speakers, offering a sound quality that rivals high-end speakers. The 40mm dynamic drivers deliver powerful bass and clarity, making the Ace one of the best wireless headphones in terms of sound performance.
The Sonos Ace is particularly adept at handling Dolby Atmos content, providing an immersive experience for both music and TV/movies. The headphones excel in creating a sense of being present at live events, enhancing the reverb, crowd noise, and venue mix. While the Ace supports lossless audio through a wired USB-C connection and aptX Lossless for recent Android devices, the feature was not available for testing during the review period.
One standout feature of the Sonos Ace is the TV Audio Swap, which allows seamless switching between audio sources from a Sonos soundbar to the headphones. This feature creates a private listening experience for users, especially useful for late-night viewing. The headphones also support spatial audio and Dolby head tracking, enhancing the immersive experience when watching movies or sports.
The design of the Sonos Ace is sleek and premium, with a combination of matte finishes, stainless steel, and vegan leather. The hidden hinge design allows the ear cups to rotate flat for easy storage. The headphones are comfortable to wear, with memory foam ear pads and a cushioned headband providing a snug fit.
In terms of battery life, Sonos promises 30 hours of use with ANC active, which is on par with other flagship models. The headphones also feature a quick-charge function that provides three hours of listening time in just three minutes.
Competing with models like the AirPods Max and Sony WH-1000XM5, the Sonos Ace offers a strong contender in the premium headphone market. While there are areas for improvement, such as updates to the Android app and support for all Sonos soundbars, the Ace delivers excellent sound quality and a stylish design. Overall, Sonos has made a solid entry into the headphone market with the Ace.
