Sennheiser Accentum Review:
If you've searched for headphones previously, you'll understand that discovering quality ANC headphones under 15,000 INR is challenging, especially when competitors like Bose target the 20,000 INR segment. To address this gap, Sennheiser introduced its Accentum series, featuring the Accentum and the Accentum Plus models. The question arises: has Sennheiser produced a winner, or does cost reduction compromise the user experience? Let's explore in the review of the Sennheiser Accentum headphones.
Review of Sennheiser Accentum: Design and Comfort
The box contents lack a carrying case, which is immediately noticeable. While the price justifies this omission, it means users must carry the headphones in their backpacks, posing a risk of damage. Additionally, the headphones only swivel and do not fold, making transportation inconvenient and susceptible to potential damage from minor bumps.
In terms of design, Sennheiser's Accentum headphones exceed expectations. Despite being constructed from plastic, the build quality feels remarkably premium, devoid of any rattles or squeaks. Furthermore, the black color effectively conceals fingerprints and smudges, enhancing the overall aesthetics.
Sennheiser has prioritized comfort with the Accentum headphones, evident in the soft ear padding and generous cushioning on the headband. Users can enjoy longer listening sessions without discomfort, although extended use may cause some ear warming after an hour. However, this should not pose a significant issue for most casual listeners.
Sennheiser Accentum Review: Control Options
Sennheiser has chosen physical buttons over touch gestures for the controls, a practical choice considering the issues often encountered with touch controls on headphones. However, the buttons are small, requiring users to develop muscle memory for effective control. The controls include a power button that also serves as the pairing button, a play/pause button, and volume up and down buttons.
When it comes to ports, the device features only a USB-C charging port, limiting users from using their existing 3.5mm jack cables. Additionally, the absence of the auto-play pause feature is peculiar, requiring users to manually stop music playback each time, which can be inconvenient.
Companion App
Similar to many other headphone models, the Accentum comes with a companion app called Sennheiser Smart Control. Thankfully, the app boasts an intuitive interface, making it easy to navigate with a simple layout. In terms of functionality, users can access an equalizer within the app, offering a selection of preset settings or the option to customize their sound profile.
For users unfamiliar with various equalizer settings, Sennheiser provides the Sound Check feature. This functionality leads users through a series of sound tests, helping them select a customized preset tailored to their preferences.
A notable feature is the Sound Zone, enabling users to automatically customize ANC and equalizer settings based on their location. For example, users can designate a specific Sound Zone for their workplace to deactivate ANC, facilitating better communication.
Sennheiser Accentum Review: Connection and Battery Performance
Thankfully, Bluetooth 5.2 ensures seamless connectivity with the headphones, whether paired with one device or multiple. The connection remains robust, enabling users to enjoy uninterrupted listening even in different rooms.
When it comes to battery life, Sennheiser's claim of the Accentum headphones lasting for 50 hours holds true. During a week of casual listening and movie watching with ANC enabled, the headphones easily endured without needing a recharge.
Sennheiser Accentum Review: Sound Experience
When testing the Sennheiser Accentum headphones with songs like “Oxytocin,” “Like That,” “Starboy,” and “Too Sweet,” the sound quality proved impressive. Sennheiser's balanced tuning accurately captured both highs and lows, with no single aspect overpowering the others. Additionally, the headphones provided excellent detail, enabling differentiation of all instruments in a song without missing anything.
While some users may find the sound stage to be flat, we see it as a good starting point for customizing the sound profile to individual preferences. As for the bass, it's not overpowering, and the app offers a Bass Boost option for those who prefer a more pronounced bass experience.
ANC Performance
While it would have been nice to have different ANC levels for various situations, the actual performance of the active noise cancellation (ANC) exceeded our expectations. The headphones effectively cancel out most noise, and there's even a specific wind cancellation feature designed to eliminate wind noises.
The transparency mode functioned exceptionally well. Conversations with the headphones on felt natural, without any robotic feel, and we could hear our surroundings clearly.
Do the Sennheiser Accentum headphones justify the purchase?
Priced at Rs 11,990 onwards, the Sennheiser Accentum headphones present a compelling option in the sub-15K segment, boasting balanced sound, excellent ANC, and impressive battery life. While the controls may require some adjustment period, they're worth considering if you're shopping in this price range.
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