Review of Sonos Ace: Are These the Best Premium Headphones on the Market?

Published: Nov 02, 2024

Sonos, a brand synonymous with innovative audio products, has recently ventured into the competitive world of premium headphones with the launch of the Sonos Ace. Priced at approximately INR 33,996 (with a manufacturer suggested retail price of INR 39,999), these headphones are designed to not only deliver exceptional sound quality but also to provide the kind of luxurious aesthetic that Sonos is known for. Featuring an innovative TV Audio Swap function, they allow users to seamlessly shift audio from a compatible soundbar to the headphones—a game-changer for movie lovers and gamers alike.

Unboxing Experience

Opening the box of the Sonos Ace is an experience in itself. The straightforward yet elegant packaging reflects the premium nature of the product. Inside, you’ll find the headphones nestled within a white zip case, complemented by a smaller travel pouch for the cables. Everything feels thoughtfully designed, with the materials used seemingly aimed at creating a tactile premium experience. Alongside the headphones, you receive a USB-C to USB-C cable, a USB-C to 3.5 mm audio cable, and a concise setup guide.

While the presentation is impressive, there were some issues during my unboxing. The zip on the case was not as sturdy as one might expect, and its lighter color appears prone to show dirt quite easily. Additionally, the design of the ear cups, which rotate in one direction only, can be a bit uncomfortable when wearing them around the neck.

Unboxing the Sonos Ace: Premium feel right from the start

Design and Comfort

The Sonos Ace marries minimalism with premium design. Weighing just 312 grams, you’ll hardly feel them even during extended listening sessions. The available color options—classic black and pristine white—offer a stylish aesthetic that complements various personal styles. Comfort is clearly a priority, with ear cushions that are both removable and covered in memory foam, providing a ‘pillow-like’ feel against your ears, even for those who wear glasses.

Sound Quality: Bass and Clarity

When it comes to sound, the Sonos Ace does not disappoint. The bass is well-controlled, delivering a punchy yet smooth experience that refrains from overshadowing the mids and highs. This balanced clarity is suitable for a wide array of musical genres—from Adele to Metallica, each note is rendered with precision, allowing listeners to explore their entire playlist without fatigue.

The headphones also boost a feature that enhances both highs and lows when listening at lower volumes, making it easier to enjoy a quiet yet rich experience, no matter your choice of music.

“The Sonos Ace headphones deliver impressive signal processing with a natural, balanced sound that is commendable.”

Noise-Canceling Performance

One of the standout features of the Sonos Ace is its noise-canceling capability. While it may not quite dethrone established competitors like Bose, it provides a satisfying level of isolation, perfect for those who appreciate some ambient sound but prefer it to be subdued. The transparency mode closely mirrors Apple’s offerings, enabling you to stay aware of your environment without removing the headphones.

Compatibility: Android and Soundbar Features

An exciting aspect of the Sonos Ace is its Audio Swap feature, which facilitates a wireless audio transition from a Sonos soundbar to the headphones. However, users without a Sonos Arc, who are eager to experience this function, may be left disappointed. Additionally, current limitations concerning Android compatibility could deter potential users who rely on these devices. Sonos’s future updates will be essential to expand compatibility features, especially for avid Android enthusiasts.

The Most Impressive Features

Perhaps what sets the Sonos Ace apart, even in a crowded marketplace, is its capability to reveal subtle nuances in music that many headphones miss. The clear instrument separation allows even faint background components to be detected, making these headphones a favored choice when engaging in critical listening.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Sonos Ace headphones emerge as a formidable contender in the premium audio market. Their lightweight build and comfort make them suitable for long listening sessions, while the sound quality offers a balanced and immersive experience. With features like an effective calling function and an impressive 30-hour battery life, they deliver solid performance for those within the INR 35,000 to 40,000 price range. However, Sonos must tackle the brand awareness challenge in regions like India to capitalize on their potential success, as many remain uninformed about their products.

For a debut offering, Sonos has created a noteworthy pair of headphones that, despite their limitations, prove to be a strong option in the high-end category. As the company pursues broader compatibility and explores new features, the Sonos Ace could soon secure its place as a favorite among audiophiles.

My rating: 3.5/5