One of the more affordable offerings from German audio legend Sennheiser, the HD 2.30i is an on-ear set of headphones meant for Apple devices. Another similar version for Android devices is also available. These can’t be interchanged — it actually makes a big difference when the headphones are used with the right device they’re optimised to work with. The set costs ₹6,990, which is not too bad for the quality of sound you get.

Good fit The HD 2.30i comes in a light design. It’s all plastic, but that makes it a lot easier to wear for long periods. The unit we received was white with a few copper accents. The band has hinges that mean the ear cups can be folded inward, making the headphones easy to store and carry around. There’s a thin cloth pouch provided in the box to keep them in. That’s a nice touch, but what’s unforgivable is that you can’t actually adjust the fit in any way. Meaning, the band doesn’t expand and lengthen or shorten.

The design is otherwise a little unusual in that the band runs past the ear cups, giving it an unique look and adding stability. The ear muffs are soft and comfortable and even isolate the outside noise rather well — though this is not about active noise cancellation. One problem is that the ear muffs are also difficult to wear in a country as hot as ours. You’ll certainly feel a bit of sweat at the peak of summer and considerable relief when you take them off. But if you’re generally in air conditioned rooms and out in the heat for short periods, it’s not a worry.

Excellent wired sound The HD 2.30i headphones are by no means wireless. That may mean better sound, but Bluetooth headphones are of course exceedingly popular these days. They come with a detachable tangle free cable that fits in a 3.5mm jack slot. If you’re considering these for an iPhone 7 or 7 Plus, remember that you must have the adaptor to make them fit.

The sound from these headphones is crystalline. Clear and sparkling. You soon notice instruments and details you miss with ordinary lower quality headphones. The sharpness combines with really good bass, for something this light. The HD 2.30i doesn’t lack in volume either. I found them incredibly enjoyable to listen to and handed them back with considerable reluctance.

Price: ₹6,990

Pros: High quality sound,

affordable

Cons: Band isn’t adjustable

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