Spotify Lossless has landed. Despite a disappointing (to some) lossless quality of 24-bit 44.1kHz, the streaming quality of one of the best music streaming services just got a massive upgrade.
Thing is, if you want to enjoy this new sound quality to its fullest, you're going to need something better than the best wireless earbuds. Because the streamed files are much larger, a Bluetooth connection isn't going to cut it — you're going to need something wired.
Thankfully, there are some truly incredible options out there if you're looking for some sick new cans to listen to Peter Gabriel's Sledgehammer at its very best. Earbuds and headphones for every budget, from pocket change to "I might need to sell a kidney."
Before we begin...
Let me first tell you about the "signal chain." It's actually very simple — it's your output device, and then everything that gets the sound to your ears. That could be:
- Your phone (source device)
- Your phone's DAC
- A headphone dongle
- Headphone cable
- Your headphones
A signal chain is only as strong as the weakest of its parts. You could have the best pair of headphones around, but if your source device and its built-in DAC aren't very good, you're not going to be using your headphones to their fullest.
The DAC is a very easy part of the signal chain to switch out. It's a "Digital to Analog Converter," and it takes the digital audio track and converts it into a track that your headphones can play — and your ears can hear. The better the DAC, the better the conversion. See, not so complicated?
A great way of upgrading older headphones is to grab a new DAC — in some cases, it also lends your almost certainly headphone-jack-less device a way to plug in some wired headphones. Here are a couple that I recommend:
Budget kings: Linsoul KZ ZS10 Pro
The KZ ZS10 Pro are a great way to dip your toes into Audiophiledom and enjoy the new streaming quality of Spotify. They're not very expensive, yet they're filled with the kind of specs that would have made 18-year-old me salivate till my mouth was dry.
They've got five drivers inside to play different elements of your music. That means increased instrument separation, excellent soundstage and dynamic bass. You won't be wanting for anything sonically, let's put it that way.
They also happen to look pretty cool with those stainless steel faceplates. I like the clear inner panel that lets you take a look at the interior of the buds. The cable is detachable, removing a key breakage point. Cable snaps or stops working? Replace it with a new one!
My first over-ears: Sennheiser HD 599
What list of Audiophile headphones would be complete without the HD 599? They're a great pair of beginner cans, with excellent sound and a very wide soundstage to help you immerse yourself in your music. They're light and they're comfortable — what more could you want out of your headphones?
They're actually the first pair of wired headphones that I ever bought. Coming in just over $100, they're a fairly affordable option that doesn't break the bank. I still use them now, thanks to the unique sound signature and barely there, super-light fit.
Some might find them a little light on bass, but they're very articulate and detailed. They've got a neutral sound signature so that you don't have to listen to over-emphasized bass or mids. Instrument separation is very good as well. Pair them with a solid DAC and you're in for a great time.
In-ear heroes: Meze Alba
Meze makes some of my favorite headphones and earbuds, and the Alba are one of the brand's most affordable models. They're a little in-ear marvel, from their funky shell design to the perfectly shaped tips that slide into your ears. They're made of metal, making them feel far more expensive than the price you pay.
And then you start listening to your music, and nothing else matters. They're crystal clear, providing more detail than just about anything else out there. Give them the high-quality tracks they deserve, and you'll hear details and elements you've never heard before in tracks you've listened to a thousand times before.
You don't need a separate amplifier either — they're designed to work perfectly with the power that your phone pumps out. I absolutely love these little buds, and they've got a permanent place in my listening rotation at my desk. I love them.
The best: Meze 105 AER
Some of the best headphones for under $1,000 that I've tried, the Meze 105 AER are a great way to listen to Spotify's latest lossless update. Connect that wire into your headphone jack, and prepare to be transported into another world — one where the only thing that matters is the music that you're listening to.
They're a lovely object. Metal hinges and a standout design, and they're light weight so that they don't cause any issues on your head. The leather headband that somehow manages to sit properly whenever you put them on. They're a masterwork for the price — some would even believe you paid a whole lot more money for them.
Then there's the sound quality. Controlled, effortless bass, a super wide soundstage, and some of the most impressive detail you'll find anywhere. They're lovely — almost so much that they deserve more than Spotify Lossless. Might I suggest the excellent Qobuz instead?
The classic: Sennheiser HD600
The Sennheiser HD 600 are perhaps one of the most well-known pairs of headphones in the world. They've been a staple for audiophiles since they were released nearly 30 years ago. How have they stuck around that long? Because they're really, really good.
They're super detailed, making them very good for critical listening. They've traded in some bass volume for that detail and clarity, but you also get an incredibly wide soundstage in return. They're about as immersive as they come, putting you directly in the center of your favorite tunes.
They're comfortable and lightweight to boot, and the cable you get in the box is wicked long. It's replaceable too, should you find it gets broken. Like the cans above, these may well be overkill for Spotify Lossless — but your ears will thank you.
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More from Tom's Guide
- Spotify Lossless just dropped — here's how it compares to Apple Music, Tidal and other high-res services
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- My favorite earbuds for movie nights are the AirPods — here's why
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