The most valuable aspects of life are often those that come at no cost, or at least at a low price. It's important to clarify that I'm not referring to something cheap, as that term carries a different, often negative implication, particularly regarding quality. However, the term 'inexpensive' conjures an image of accessible quality, a description that aptly fits the Sony WH-CH720N.
Once a dominant force in the global consumer electronics market, Sony has been operating at an accelerated pace in recent years, as if to assert its prowess against emerging competitors from Korea, China, the US, and elsewhere. In the realm of personal wireless audio, the Japanese titan is on a triumphant spree, rolling out one successful product after another, including the flagship WH-1000XM5 headphones, the affordable WF-C500 earbuds, and the new ULT series of headphones. City Times has been consistently impressed by these offerings, and the WH-CH720N is no exception. However, before you assume this is just another unreserved endorsement of Sony, continue reading.
The WH-CH720N, with its typically lengthy Sony nomenclature, stands out from the usual premium Sony products known for their high-end technology, features, and performance at premium prices. Instead, this model is designed for convenience and user-friendliness, providing a straightforward package that includes only essential features, all of which it performs exceptionally well. Let's delve into its design, aesthetics, and build to see this philosophy in action.
These over-the-ear headphones offer a comfortable fit without the excessive luxury found in Sony's more upscale models. Weighing a mere 192 grams, they are barely noticeable on the ears. The ear cups are spacious enough for most ear sizes, and the padding, both on the ear cups and the headband, provides the comfort one would expect from Sony. These are the critical contact points with the user, and the build quality in these areas is commendable. However, the plastic components lack the smooth, premium feel found in Sony's XM5 flagship or comparable products from Bose, B&O, or Apple.
In terms of functionality, Sony has ensured quality where it counts: the padding is sufficiently comfortable, and the clamping force is just right, ensuring a secure fit without discomfort, while effectively blocking out ambient noise. The active noise cancellation (ANC) in the WH-CH720N is adequate for most real-life situations, though it doesn't offer the complete silence provided by more expensive models. This balance is particularly useful in environments where you need both silence and awareness of your surroundings, such as in an office setting.
The controls are straightforward and user-friendly, featuring actual buttons rather than touch controls, which are preferable for their precision. The default sound profile of the WH-CH720N is slightly bass-heavy, a trait typical of Sony, which has been well-received due to its alignment with modern music preferences. However, the equalizer in the Sony app allows for easy adjustments to suit a variety of musical tastes.
Additionally, the call quality is clear and precise, with effective noise reduction from the microphones, and the battery life is impressive, offering up to 50 hours without ANC and 35 hours with it activated. A quick charge of 3-5 minutes provides an extra 1.5 hours of use. Currently available at Dh394 during a promotion, down from the retail price of Dh430, the WH-CH720N represents a great value for its features. It lacks a carrying case or pouch and a premium feel, but it remains a highly recommended option for those seeking a practical, all-around performing headphone that offers excellent value for money.
