Philips PH805 Wireless ANC Headphones: features, specs and who they suit

The Philips PH805 are wireless over-ear headphones with active noise cancelling (ANC). They are built for commutes, flights and open offices, where steady background noise gets in the way of music, calls or concentration. They connect by Bluetooth and can also be used with a cable.

How active noise cancelling works

ANC uses microphones to pick up ambient sound, then plays an opposing signal that cancels part of it. In general it works best on steady, low-pitched sounds such as a plane engine, a train or an air conditioner, and does less with sudden noises like voices. Philips says you can switch the noise cancelling on at the touch of a button to shut off the noise of a train or busy office.

Awareness mode

When you're out and about, Awareness mode lets you listen to music while staying tuned to the noise of the street. Typically this works by passing outside sound through the microphones. It's a useful feature for crossing roads, hearing announcements or short conversations without removing the headphones.

Battery life and charging

Philips lists 30 hours of play or talk time with ANC off and 25 hours with it on. A single charge takes about two hours, and the description mentions flexible quick charging. These are the brand's figures, so real battery life will vary with volume and use. Turning ANC off when the surroundings are quiet stretches the battery.

Drivers and sound

Each ear cup has a 40 mm neodymium driver. Philips says this provides highly detailed sound and strong bass. A larger driver can move more air and typically helps with low-frequency response, though tuning matters as much as size. The headphones weigh about 0.6 lb (roughly 270 g).

What Hi-Res Audio means here

The PH805 are listed as Hi-Res Audio headphones. Philips says you get the full benefit of lossless audio, recorded at a higher sample rate than CDs, when they are wired to a Hi-Res source through the included 2.5 mm to 3.5 mm cable. In general, Bluetooth compresses audio, so the wired connection is the route for high-resolution files. You need a Hi-Res source and files to hear any difference.

Who they suit

They suit commuters, frequent travellers and office or study users who want noise reduction and long battery life. People who want one device for wireless use on the move and a cable for home listening will like the dual connection.

What to check before you buy

• Fit and comfort: over-ear cups should fully cover your ears; check head size and any glasses.
• Devices: confirm your phone or laptop supports Bluetooth and, for wired use, that you have a suitable jack or adaptor.
• Hi-Res source: wired Hi-Res listening needs compatible files and a player.
• Calls: check the manual for microphone and call features.
• Awareness and safety: stay alert to traffic when walking, cycling or driving.
• What's in the box: check the cable and any carry case that the manual lists.

The short version

• Over-ear Bluetooth headphones, model PH805, with active noise cancelling.
• 30 hours of playtime, or 25 hours with ANC on, and about 2 hours to charge.
• 40 mm neodymium drivers.
• Hi-Res Audio when wired using the included 2.5 mm to 3.5 mm cable.
• Awareness mode for hearing the street.

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