In-Depth Review of Sony WH-CH720N Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones
Sony has long been a revered name in the audio industry, consistently delivering high-quality products that cater to audiophiles and casual listeners alike. The WH-CH720N Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones are another addition to this illustrious legacy. With their lightweight design, advanced noise-canceling capabilities, and impressive sound quality, these headphones aim to provide an unparalleled listening experience. In this article, we will explore the various features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of the WH-CH720N, supported by user feedback and comprehensive analysis.
Design and Comfort
Lightweight Construction
Weighing in at just 192 grams, the Sony WH-CH720N claims the title of Sony’s lightest overhead wireless headphones with noise canceling technology. This featherlight design is a boon for users who prioritize comfort during long listening sessions. However, individual experiences may vary. Some users reported discomfort due to the design of the ear cushions, particularly if they do not sit perfectly on the ears. The ear pads, while comfortable, may feel insufficiently padded for prolonged use, especially for those with glasses.
Earcup Fit and Usability
Feedback indicates a mixed reception regarding the fit of the ear cushions. While they effectively cover the ears and contribute to sound isolation, some users found that the cushions could flatten over time, leading to pressure on the ears. This issue was particularly prevalent among users who wear glasses, as finding the right fit became a trial-and-error process. Adjustability in the headband is a positive feature, allowing for a snug but comfortable fit, although it may require some fiddling to achieve the perfect balance.
Noise-Canceling Technology
Dual Noise Sensor Technology
The WH-CH720N employs Sony’s Integrated Processor V1, which enhances its noise-canceling capabilities. Users have praised the headphones for their ability to minimize external noise effectively, making them ideal for use in noisy environments such as public transport or busy cafes. The headphones also offer an adjustable Ambient Sound mode, allowing users to tailor their listening experience according to their surroundings.
Immersive Experience
The combination of superior noise cancellation and an expansive soundstage creates an immersive listening experience. Users reported that they could fully engage with their music, free from external distractions. This feature is particularly appreciated by music lovers who attend concerts or engage in activities requiring focused listening.
Sound Quality
Superb Audio Performance
The sound quality of the WH-CH720N is where Sony truly shines. The Integrated Processor V1, combined with the Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE), ensures that users receive natural vocals and crystal-clear sound. This technology breathes new life into compressed music files, providing a richer auditory experience.
Balanced Tuning
Users have noted that the headphones offer a balanced tuning that does justice to various genres of music. Whether it’s the intricate details of classical compositions or the heavy bass of electronic music, the WH-CH720N delivers a satisfying audio experience, accurately reflecting the artist’s intent.
Smart Features
Multipoint Connection
The ability to connect to two devices simultaneously is a standout feature of the WH-CH720N. This multipoint connectivity allows users to switch seamlessly between devices, making it easier to manage calls and music playback without the need to disconnect and reconnect.
Crystal Clear Calling
Precise Voice Pickup Technology ensures that calls are clear and intelligible. The beamforming microphones effectively isolate the speaker’s voice, making hands-free calls convenient and hassle-free.
Battery Life and Charging
Impressive Longevity
With a battery life of up to 35 hours, the WH-CH720N allows users to enjoy extended listening sessions without worrying about frequent recharging. Additionally, the quick charging feature—providing an hour of playback from just a 3-minute charge—adds to the convenience of these headphones.
USB-C Convenience
The inclusion of a USB Type-C cable for charging simplifies the process and makes the headphones compatible with modern devices.
Drawbacks
Build Quality Concerns
While many users appreciate the lightweight design, some have raised concerns about the overall build quality. The plastic construction, while lightweight, may not hold up as well to heavy use, raising questions about durability over time. Users have reported hearing creaks or cracks during use, particularly during more vigorous activities.
Lack of Carrying Case
A notable omission is the absence of a carrying case, which many users found disappointing. While this may not be a dealbreaker for everyone, those who travel frequently may see the added cost of a case as a drawback.
Conclusion
Overall, the Sony WH-CH720N Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones are a commendable option for anyone seeking a high-quality audio experience without breaking the bank. They excel in comfort, noise cancellation, and sound quality—traits that are often difficult to find in one package. However, potential buyers should weigh the comfort fit, build quality, and lack of a carrying case against their personal preferences and usage scenarios.
Rating
- Comfort: 4/5
- Noise Cancellation: 5/5
- Sound Quality: 5/5
- Smart Features: 4.5/5
- Battery Life: 5/5
- Build Quality: 3.5/5
Overall Rating: 4.4/5
The Sony WH-CH720N truly stands out as a top contender in the wireless headphone market. For those ready to immerse themselves in a superior audio experience, these headphones are worth considering.
Ray Y. –
I recently purchased the Sony WH-CH720N Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones, and they have truly surpassed my expectations in several ways. As a devoted music enthusiast, these headphones have quickly established themselves as my preferred choice for a high-quality audio experience.
Comfortable Ear Coverage:
The standout aspect of these headphones is the ample size of the ear cups. They wrap around my ears, creating a sound cocoon that enhances comfort for extended listening. The over-ear design not only boosts comfort during long sessions but also effectively blocks out background noise, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the music.
Superior Noise Cancelling:
The noise-cancelling technology in the WH-CH720N is exceptional. Whether I’m commuting in a noisy environment or working in a lively café, these headphones establish a peaceful listening atmosphere by efficiently blocking out external sounds. Their adaptive noise cancellation smoothly adjusts to different settings, offering a genuinely immersive experience.
Impressive Battery Life:
Battery life is vital for wireless headphone users, and Sony excels in this area. The WH-CH720N delivers remarkable battery performance, allowing for hours of uninterrupted music enjoyment on a single charge. This is ideal for long flights, road trips, or simply when you want to avoid the hassle of frequent recharging.
Seamless Wireless Connectivity:
Connecting wirelessly was effortless, thanks to the smooth Bluetooth pairing. The headphones quickly link to my two devices, maintaining a stable connection even at a distance. The freedom of movement provided by the wireless feature adds to the overall convenience of these headphones.
Crisp Sound Quality:
Of course, all these features would be irrelevant without stellar sound quality. Thankfully, the WH-CH720N produces crisp and clear audio across various genres. The bass is impactful yet balanced, while the mids and highs deliver a rich and detailed listening experience.
Enhanced Experience with the Headphones App:
What distinguishes the WH-CH720N is the excellent user experience offered by the Headphones app. The app allows for straightforward customization of sound settings, enabling me to adjust the audio profile to my preferences. Moreover, firmware updates and new features are effortlessly provided through the app, ensuring my headphones remain up-to-date and optimized for peak performance.
In summary, the Sony WH-CH720N Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones have proven to be a fantastic investment. Their blend of comfort, noise cancellation, battery life, connectivity, and sound quality makes them an outstanding option in the competitive landscape of wireless headphones. If you’re seeking a reliable and immersive audio experience, these headphones are certainly worth considering.
Ahmed –
It’s a solid pair.
John –
Sony consistently ranks among the top players in the audio industry, and the WH-CH720NC headphones are no exception. If you haven’t yet upgraded to a good pair of wireless headphones, now is the perfect time.
Pros: These headphones offer an outstanding price-to-quality ratio, with Sony setting the standard at a lower cost. They fit securely and comfortably for an active lifestyle without being overly tight. The earcups feel high-end and maintain their clean appearance, even in white. The cushioned headband allows for extended listening sessions in comfort. The audio and USB-C charging port is conveniently located on the bottom of the left earcup, which is great if you find yourself out in a light rain. The adjustable sliders click into place securely, ensuring they maintain your preferred fit even when stored in a bag or during frequent use. They also come with a flexible audio cable for wired listening.
Noise cancelling: As my first experience with noise-cancelling headphones, these completely transformed my enjoyment of favorite songs. The noise cancellation on the WH-CH720NCs exceeds expectations for the price. If you can hold out until Black Friday, the discounts make these an incredible deal, ideal for anyone wanting to elevate their wireless audio experience.
App: SONY’s Sound Connect app allows you to adjust various audio levels, enhance vocals, boost bass, and even create custom sound profiles.
Con: The play/pause button between the volume controls could be positioned for easier access.
Mireille Viviane de Paula –
I’m pleased with the headphones. They are lightweight, pair easily with all my devices, and charge quickly. The noise cancellation is also quite effective. However, I was a bit disappointed that they don’t come with a travel case, which is sold separately for nearly R$200. If I had noticed this detail earlier, I would have opted for a more advanced model for a little extra. Another downside for me is that they feel slightly heavy, and at first, I experienced some jaw discomfort, but I eventually adjusted and it no longer bothers me. Overall, it’s a good option for headphones, but if you’re willing to spend a bit more, I recommend going for a newer model.
Brian –
SECOND UPDATE – 11/9/2023
After a couple of months with these headphones, I feel more confident in my observations.
Overall, I’m reasonably satisfied, but having paid $150, I wouldn’t do so again knowing what I know now. These headphones are worth about $70 at best. The comfort isn’t great, the battery life is easily matched by cheaper options, and the stock sound quality is underwhelming (though adjusting the EQ helps). However, they do connect seamlessly with my PC, which is a refreshing change from many Bluetooth devices. The noise cancelling is solid for my needs, but I’m not sure how it compares to higher-end models.
UPDATE – 9/25/2023
Realizing my initial review was lengthy, here are some key takeaway points after using these for about a week:
ORIGINAL REVIEW
In choosing these headphones, several factors were important to me:
CONS
While these headphones are great overall, I have a few minor complaints:
Otaibi –
The sound and insulation quality are truly excellent, and they are lightweight. However, I wasn’t impressed that they are made of plastic, as they aren’t suitable for the gym or heavy use. With frequent use, you’ll start to hear noises from the plastic itself, similar to a crinkling sound.
Ahmed Nagy –
The sound quality is good, and with a few adjustments in the settings, it can get even better. The noise isolation is also decent. However, the materials used aren’t the best.
Zachary Woodman –
After years of searching for a decent pair of Bluetooth headphones, I finally found these, and they are a game changer. I’ve tried everything from pricey Galaxy Buds to various budget options, but they all suffered from connectivity issues, glitches, and subpar sound quality. These headphones have addressed all those problems.
I love the option to use a headphone jack on compatible devices and the multipoint connection feature is a lifesaver. They fit comfortably around my slender neck, making them perfect for travel. In terms of sound quality, these headphones deliver exceptional performance for the price.
Initially, I hesitated to switch to over-ear headphones because I enjoy being able to take one out to stay aware of my surroundings. Previous noise passthrough options have always been disappointing, often making outside noise excessively treble-heavy. Not these! I actually prefer to wear them at concerts since they enhance the experience more than listening without them. The noise passthrough is impressively effective.
The accompanying app is user-friendly and packed with features, including custom EQ settings and noise passthrough adjustments. The 3D adaptive sound feature is great, though it can be tricky to set up initially, and while the noise cancellation is very good, it’s not the best available. The battery life is astounding; I use these headphones frequently—sometimes all day—and only need to charge them once or twice a week. The multipoint connection is also a fantastic addition for answering calls hands-free while working on my computer.
There are minor issues, though. Occasionally, very low bass sounds from the environment can cause loud, deep popping noises in the headphones, particularly when driving over bumps. Sometimes, external sounds in passthrough mode can come off as muddled, and while the noise cancellation is solid, it struggles with sudden loud noises like fireworks compared to Bose headphones. Still, for the price, it offers some of the best noise cancellation and passthrough capabilities available.
Another minor annoyance is the adaptive settings, which can misinterpret my activity. It sometimes activates noise cancellation when I’m actually driving or walking, and even when I’m sitting in a café, I might want passthrough activated, but it defaults to noise cancellation. Luckily, I can easily adjust this in the app. Lately, I’ve just kept the adaptive sound setting off and manually adjusted as needed, although it occasionally reverts back to automatic mode.
My final complaint pertains to the microphone for phone calls. Sometimes it functions perfectly, and the other person can hear me clearly; other times, they only pick up background noise or can’t hear me at all. I’m unsure if it’s a firmware issue or a result of the microphone’s placement, but it can be inconsistent. When it works—about 75% of the time—it’s adequate, though I often have to speak louder than usual.
Despite these flaws, these headphones are easily the best all-around option I’ve ever owned. At $120, I consider them a steal. Even if they’re more expensive when not on sale, I’ve used headphones that cost significantly more and didn’t perform as well. I would gladly pay twice the price for this level of quality and functionality.