Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones, Bluetooth for Crystal-Clear Calls w/Adaptive Noise Cancellation, 60h Battery Life, Customizable Sound & Lightweight Folding Design, Graphite
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones are a significant evolution in the Momentum series, bringing modern design aesthetics, extended comfort, and impressive battery life to the forefront. They cater to both audiophiles and everyday listeners with their exceptional sound quality and user-friendly features, making them a top contender in the wireless ANC headphone market.
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Features & Functionality
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The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones come packed with features that cater to both audiophiles and everyday users. Active noise canceling (ANC) is a standout feature, designed to minimize background noise and provide an immersive listening experience. While the ANC performance is competent, it’s not the strongest on the market, falling slightly behind competitors like Sony and Bose. However, it effectively reduces consistent noises, such as engine hums and HVAC sounds, making it suitable for commuting and travel.
The headphones also include a transparency mode, which allows users to blend outside sounds with their audio, enhancing situational awareness. This is particularly useful for those who need to stay alert to their surroundings while enjoying their music. The mobile app support is another significant feature, providing access to custom and preset EQs, gesture controls for playback, ANC, and phone calls. This app integration ensures users can tailor their listening experience to their preferences.
A noteworthy feature of the Momentum 4 is its impressive 60-hour battery life. This is a significant improvement over the previous model and surpasses many competitors. For users, this means fewer charges and more uninterrupted listening time. The headphones also support fast charging, providing several hours of playback with just a short charging period.
Design & Build Quality
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The design of the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless represents a marked shift from its predecessors. Gone is the iconic aviator headset-like look, replaced by a more conventional, streamlined design. While some may miss the distinctive aesthetic of the Momentum 3, the new design offers practical benefits. The use of fewer metal elements makes the Momentum 4 lighter, weighing in at 295 grams compared to the 320 grams of the Momentum 3. This reduction in weight contributes to the overall comfort of the headphones.
The ear cups and pads have also been redesigned for enhanced comfort. The ear cups are wider, accommodating larger ears more comfortably, and the pads use a softer filling that distributes the clamp force more gently. This makes the Momentum 4 a suitable choice for long listening sessions, as the headphones are less likely to cause discomfort over time. The foldable design further enhances portability, making it easier to carry the headphones in the included hardshell case.
Despite the predominantly plastic construction, the build quality remains solid. The headphones feel durable and well-constructed, even if they lack the premium feel of metal components. The case itself is a significant improvement over the previous model, offering better protection and a more compact form factor.
Power & Performance
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In terms of power and performance, the Momentum 4 Wireless delivers a reliable and enjoyable listening experience. The headphones feature a 42mm transducer that provides a dynamic and detailed sound profile. The tuning of the Momentum 4 has shifted from the more neutral sound of the Momentum 3 to a soft V-shape, with elevated sub-bass, softened upper midrange, and more pronounced mid and upper treble. This results in a sound signature that is engaging and enjoyable for a wide range of music genres.
The bass performance is one of the highlights, offering a modest elevation that adds warmth and rumble without overpowering the midrange. The midrange, however, is where the Momentum 4 shows a noticeable difference from its predecessor. The dip in the upper midrange can make midtones sound slightly blunted, which might be a drawback for mid-centric listeners. However, the pronounced lower and mid-treble help maintain clarity and presence in vocals and instruments.
The treble is more energetic compared to the Momentum 3, with an airy upper treble region that adds a sense of space and detail to the soundstage. The 8kHz peak, while more prominent, can introduce a bit of sizzle and sibilance, particularly for treble-sensitive listeners. Overall, the sound quality of the Momentum 4 is competitive, especially when considering the improvements in soundstage and detail retrieval.
Compatibility & Connectivity
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The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless offers robust connectivity options, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices. The headphones support multiple Bluetooth codecs, including SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX Adaptive, providing high-quality wireless audio across various platforms. For those who prefer a wired connection, the included 2.5mm to 3.5mm audio cable and USB-C charging cable offer additional flexibility.
The Bluetooth connectivity is stable and reliable, with a strong connection range that minimizes dropouts and interruptions. Pairing the headphones with devices is straightforward, and the touch controls on the ear cups allow for easy management of playback, volume, and phone calls. The automated voice prompts provide useful information, such as battery status, adding to the user-friendly experience.
The touch controls, while intuitive, may take some getting used to for users accustomed to physical buttons. The absence of traditional buttons might be a drawback for some, but the swipe and tap gestures are generally responsive and easy to learn. The only physical button on the headphones is used for power and Bluetooth pairing, simplifying the overall design.
Conclusion: Should You Buy the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless?
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones are a strong contender in the wireless ANC headphone market, offering significant improvements in comfort, battery life, and portability. While they may lack some of the rich midrange and unique aesthetic of their predecessor, the Momentum 4’s overall performance and feature set make them an excellent choice for most users.
If you are looking for a high-quality, comfortable, and long-lasting pair of ANC headphones, the Momentum 4 Wireless is a top recommendation. However, if you already own the Momentum 3, the upgrade may not be necessary unless the enhanced comfort and battery life are critical for your needs. For new buyers or those looking to replace an older pair of headphones, the Momentum 4 Wireless stands out as a fantastic option.
