Sony MDR-XB950BT: With some extra bass

For all those who like to enjoy their music in a rich, uninterrupted way, the medium of sound output matters a lot. And when music needs to be on the go, the medium of output also needs to be on the go - hassle-free and portable.

Sony's XB950BT is one headphone that is easy to use and easy to wear. More importantly, when you are using the XB950BT, it seems that your music gets some added pump, with utmost clarity.

Design
The XB950BT is technically an extra-bass wireless (optional) headphone that can be connected to your device using either Bluetooth or NFC (near field communication). Crafted in a swivel folding and around-the-ear design, the XB950BT is easy to carry around. The headphones fit comfortably, partly because of the pressure relieving ear pads and the adjustable metal headband.

The primary-function keys are distributed among the two ear cups. The play/pause, forward/rewind, call-accept key and the volume rocker are located on the right ear cup, while the left ear cup has the power key, USB port, 3.5mm jack, built-in microphone and, most importantly, the Bass Boost button, which is its USP.

In terms of sound, functioning
The Bass Boost button gives all sorts of music an extra level or loudness and power. So, it doesn't matter if you are using the XB950BT to listen to an Alesso or a Sufi rock band; the XB950BT's performance in terms of improving the audio quality will be equal.

We found the NFC way to be much more comfortable rather than treading the same old Bluetooth part. One touch and your device is paired with the XB950BT.

The battery life is impressive. On a full charge, the XB950BT provides 20 hours of music playback. The built-in microphone allows the user to take calls, hands-free. Despite those big, ergonomic ear pads, the XB950BT weighs just about 280g.

For all those who still like to go old-school, the XB950BT also comes with a 1.2-metre cable.

The Sony MDR-XB950BT model is comfortable and packs a punch because of its bass boost option. But all this quality and performance come at a price of Rs 12,990. Some of us might baulk at the idea of paying Rs 12,000 and above. But the lure of one-touch connectivity and brilliant sound quality could prove too much.