Dyson OnTrac Headphones: A Premium Audio Experience

The Dyson OnTrac headphones represent a significant addition to the premium headphone market, boasting a striking design, exceptional sound quality, and advanced noise cancellation. Priced at ₹44,900, they aim to provide a luxurious and immersive audio experience, setting themselves apart through a unique blend of aesthetics, technology, and user-centric design features. While the hefty price tag might be a deterrent for some, the Dyson OnTrac offers a compelling package for discerning audiophiles and users who value premium craftsmanship and exceptional performance. Let’s delve deeper into what makes these headphones stand out.

Design and Build Quality

The Dyson OnTrac headphones immediately impress with their striking design and premium build. Unlike many headphones that rely on plastic, these are primarily constructed from CNC-milled aluminum, giving them a solid, durable feel and a futuristic aesthetic. The metallic finish is sleek and sophisticated, instantly conveying a sense of high quality.

Ergonomics and Comfort

The headband design cleverly incorporates high-capacity lithium-ion battery cells, contributing to their impressive battery life. Dual gimbal arms ensure a comfortable and secure fit, distributing weight effectively. While the headphones are noticeably heavier than some competitors, the soft microfiber ear cushions and optimized clamp force minimize pressure points, making extended listening sessions manageable for most users. Though some may find the weight a drawback during prolonged use, it doesn’t negate the overall comfort achieved.

Customization Options

Dyson allows for a degree of personalization rare in the premium headphone market. Users can customize the look of their OnTrac headphones with interchangeable outer caps and ear cushions in various colours and finishes. This allows users to match their headphones to their personal style, enhancing the ownership experience. This focus on customization elevates the OnTrac beyond a mere audio device, turning it into a personalized accessory.

Sound Quality and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

The OnTrac headphones deliver a truly exceptional audio experience. Equipped with 40mm neodymium speaker drivers, they offer a wide frequency response range (6Hz to 21kHz), producing crisp, detailed sound across various genres. The audio clarity is impressive, whether listening to bass-heavy tracks or intricate classical pieces.

EQ Settings and Soundstage

Three preset EQ levels—Bass Boost, Enhanced, and Neutral—cater to diverse preferences. The Bass Boost setting provides a satisfying low-end without muddying the mids and highs. Enhanced mode highlights detail in vocals and instruments, offering a more nuanced listening experience. Neutral mode provides a balanced and accurate representation of the audio source. The spacious soundstage contributes to the immersive experience, allowing users to discern subtle sonic details.

Impressive Noise Cancellation

The Dyson OnTrac utilizes a sophisticated ANC system incorporating eight microphones to cancel up to 40dB of external noise. This system actively monitors and adapts to different noise environments, creating an immersive, quiet listening experience. The ability to quickly switch between ANC and Ambient Sound mode via a double tap on the earcup allows for seamless transition based on the listening environment. The effectiveness of the ANC is a key selling point.

Features and Functionality

Beyond its core audio capabilities, the OnTrac boasts a wealth of thoughtful features that enhance usability and convenience.

Intuitive Controls and Connectivity

The intuitive joystick control located on the back of the right earcup provides precise and effortless control over music playback, volume, and voice assistant activation. It’s a superior alternative to the less reliable touch controls found on some competing models. The headphones support Bluetooth 5.0 for stable wireless connectivity and also include a 3.5mm to USB-C input for a wired connection, offering greater flexibility and reliability.

MyDyson App and Software Updates

The MyDyson companion app enables users to receive automatic software updates, ensuring they always have access to the latest features and firmware improvements. It also offers real-time sound tracking, monitoring both in-ear and external sound levels to prevent potential hearing damage.

Battery Life and Charging

With up to 55 hours of battery life with ANC enabled (Dyson claims this equates to approximately two weeks of use), the OnTrac significantly outperforms many competitors in terms of battery endurance. The rapid charging capabilities also make the headphones conveniently quick to top up; 10 minutes provides 2.5 hours of playback. The ability to continue using the headphones while charging with sufficient power input ensures uninterrupted usage.

Takeaway Points

• The Dyson OnTrac headphones offer an exceptional audio experience with a remarkably rich and immersive soundstage, enhanced by the efficacy of its Active Noise Cancellation system.
• The premium build quality using CNC-milled aluminum gives a robust and durable design, complimented by a stylish and customizable aesthetic.
• Intuitive controls, including the joystick system, combined with the MyDyson app, add a convenient and easily personalized usage experience.
• While its impressive battery life and fast charging are significant advantages, the relatively heavy weight might make the headphones less ideal for extended periods of use for some individuals.