Which are the best Bang and Olufsen Beoplay headphones? Vintage vs new H6, H8 and H9 headphone test

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Steve from Sounds Heavenly visits Bang and Olufsen of Derby for the ultimate B&O headphone showdown, testing 6 sets of headphones from 1978 to 2019.
Have B&O headphones improved over the years? Are vintage headphones any good in 2019? It is time to find out!
Many thanks to Bang and Olufsen of Derby and to Lee at beobuyer.co.uk/ for the kind loan of the headphones featured in this video - BeoBuyer is the quick and easy way to sell your Bang & Olufsen products.
When Steve isn't listening to music (on headphones!), he makes cables to connect B&O products together, he is always happy to help with any cabling questions via his website: soundsheavenly.com/
Here is the cable to help you to get the best sound quality from your current B&O headphones, including H2, H4, H6, H7, H8, H8i, H9 and H9i: soundsheavenly.com/bo-play/150-2327-premium-braided-cable-for-beoplay-h2-h4-h6-h7-h8-h8i-h9-h9i-headphones-with-metal-plugs.html#/3-length-2m
If these videos have helped you to enjoy your B&O products, please consider buying Steve a coffee at www.buymeacoffee.com/soundsheavenly - many thanks!
#Bang #Olufsen #Beoplay

[@soundsheavenly]

Thanks for watching! Every cable you ever need for your B&O system can be seen on Steve's website here: soundsheavenly.com If these videos have helped you to enjoy your Bang and Olufsen products, please consider buying Steve a coffee at www.buymeacoffee.com/soundsheavenly - many thanks!

[@maxh4296]

Great work, Steve and a really professional production. Many thanks 👍🏻

[@soundsheavenly]

Thanks! (This was my first video with my new Canon DSLR camera, so the quality of future videos should improve further as I learn how to use it better!)

[@jorgecasteller6312]

Excelent... thanks for the visuals and the sounds... great video, informative, comprehensive! Super nice host! top notch quality! stand up applause!

[@soundsheavenly]

Thanks, glad it was helpful!

[@rogerdawe2684]

Thanks for another great video. Bizarrely, I was in B&O Derby on Thursday last ( I have friends in Derby that I visit regularly) and hadnt had chance to watch your video until the owner reminded me that you had also been in. When I got home the first thing I did was dug out an old pair of U70s I had buried in the back of a cupboard and wow, I had honestly forgotten how good they are . Mine too had lost the black cover on the pads but are still functioning ok. I can only compare them with my 1st gen H4 and I think that although they aren't quite as comfy as the H4 the sound comparison between the 2 was actually very close to call. So much so that I can't actually decide a winner. B&O Derby is a very nice store, I had a demo of the Harmony and we chatted for quite a while. Going back to a previous video about the Beotime and the ' useless or brilliant' theme, how about a video on the Beo5/Beo6 remote? I have a Beo6 sat on a shelf completely unused and unloved. ( it was given to me by a frustrated previous owner) as its so complicated to use compared to the Beo4 ( to me anyway). Yet I feel I'm missing something and I know it can be programmed for a lot more than just being a fancy Beo4. Just a thought - maybe a 'remotes through the ages' theme as per the headphones? Just an idea. Again, thanks for another great video.

[@soundsheavenly]

Thanks! Yes, that is a great idea...I will see about a video on B&O remotes for the coming weeks, I think it could be interesting to see how some of the older ones are still usable today. B&O Derby is a great store and Paul is very helpful!

[@BangOlufsenManchester]

I need to hear those U70 beasts! Good work Sir...

[@soundsheavenly]

Mine were kindly lent to me by Lee at beobuyer.co.uk but I think Paul at B&O Derby also has a pair, they are great headphones ;-)

[@duncanwoodhouse9452]

Steve - better late than never! Thoroughly enjoyed your review/walk down memory lane on B&O headphones. I've been eyeing a pair of H8s on the Australian arm of a certain large on-line retailer, going for an absolute bargain price. Your enthusiasm for the brand, and the fact their products can still be doing a serviceable job after decades, helped confirm my purchase. I will get in touch on your website to find out about the cost of one of your cables posted to Australia - I still enjoy being "wired". Cheers.

[@soundsheavenly]

Thanks for your kind words, I am glad to hear that my video was helpful! These are great headphones, I will be happy to help with cables to give you the best sound!

[@duncanwoodhouse9452]

@@soundsheavenly My H8 have arrived. Very pleased, and now just waiting for my Sounds Heavenly cable to arrive. Interestingly, I've tried these with my Lenovo Yoga Book Android tablet, which has Dolby Atmos, and I think they sound better on Bluetooth (definitely louder) than with the supplied B&O cable.

[@soundsheavenly]

Thanks, please let me know what you think when the cable arrives!

[@Mikipedia]

Listening to this and my brand new H4 Gen 2's and looking at what ''they'' used too think ergonomics where is so strange :p These gen 2 H4's are basically the H9i's with out the ANC and I love them. I still have to test them against the old H4's as they look similar but are quite different. Great video once again :D

[@Mikipedia]

BTW, the H4's you're holding look like the gen 1's as on mine the cable runs inside the headband and doesn't come out to the ear cup and the alu sides look different on mine, more like the new H9's, just FYI :p

[@soundsheavenly]

@@Mikipedia Thanks! Yes, the H4s in the video are gen 1's - I think the H4s are the only model where the 2019 update has changed the look and feel of the headphones, as the H9i-H9 and H8i-H8 are mainly internal changes. I am looking forward to hearing the gen 2 H4s, as they should be a big improvement

[@dyhrscorner]

Great video, Steve! Will you also do a video comparing in-ears headphones by B&O? Maybe I missed it. But it would be great to see you compare these different BT and wired in-ear headphones by B&O. I'm using headphones a lot, when I'm working, but on-ears headphones isn't always the best when working or running/walking.

[@soundsheavenly]

Thanks! That is a great idea! I have bought some H3 earphones and I love them, I will try to add a video soon to compare these to newer B&O in-ear headphones

[@Foxchase92]

I use my B&O Form 1s from time to time. Mine also lacked the foam. I replaced the foam with the earpads from Form 2 (readily available on eBay), then I used the support pads from a Koss PortaPro (can get these for next to nothing used, or just buy pads on eBay). They fit well and it looks great! No trimming required, as they're exactly the same length and width. You really need the foam to hear their true sound. Another point I'd like to mention is that the headband has a leatherette surface that tends to flake off. All I did was gently scrub it off with soapy water, then use permanent marker (preferably the kind meant to withstand machine wash) to turn the surface black again. Some people also tend to remake them in leather, but not really necessary if the band itself is intact. I find that the marker actually gives the band a nice matte finish that matches the rest of the unit.

[@soundsheavenly]

Thanks, that is really good to hear. They are great headphones, glad they are still in use!

[@valentinot4963]

Just got a pair of H9i ...... amazing.

[@soundsheavenly]

They are superb headphones - enjoy!

[@beitie]

Thanks for the great video Steve! I never got to experience the older B&O headphones, but I do own a set of H6's in Special Edition Graphite Blush, and a set of H9i's in Special Edition Bronze. My favorite are the H6's. They are lighter, and only work in wired form. When paired with my Schiit DAC/Amp, they are phenomenal in my opinion. Even when using my iPhone, I was able to buy a Master & Dynamic lightning to 3.5mm cable that also has it's own remote, and it's own built in DAC, it's great. Also, I would love to purchase one of your headphone cables with a 3.5mm end for my H6's, and a 1/4" for plugging into my Beocenter 9000. Let me know :)

[@soundsheavenly]

Thanks! I didn't get to try the H6 alongside the other models so I will try to track down a pair to listen to them soon. Yes, the cable is a good upgrade, I have these discounted until the end of 2019, please see here for full details: soundsheavenly.com/bo-play/150-2327-premium-braided-cable-for-beoplay-h2-h4-h6-h7-h8-h8i-h9-h9i-headphones-with-metal-plugs.html#/3-length-2m

[@CrixMadine]

So you’re saying h6 sounds better than h9i? I’m still trying to decide which one to pick

[@beitie]

@@CrixMadine In my opinion, yes, the H6 sounds better. The H9i's are more convenient due to the Bluetooth, and the ANC. So it really depends on what your situation will be.

[@CrixMadine]

Beitie Beitie thanks for quick reply. Would you say h9i sounds worse both on Bluetooth and wired?

[@wombleok112]

ive got the HX love em

[@soundsheavenly]

Yes, these are great headphones!

[@Maglcite]

Watching this on my 2017 h9 first generations!

[@soundsheavenly]

These are great headphones! Still using my H9 3rd gen headphones every day!

[@brightondude9327]

I think the Form 2 headphones are an absolute design classic. I'm thinking of getting a pair of Form 2s on eBay actually. The current range of B&O headphones is very nice, but I think they are not distinctive enough in their design.

[@soundsheavenly]

They are great headphones, although my view is that the bass response is a little bit limited. Please be sure that they are genuine B&O headphones from a reputable seller, as unfortunately there are some counterfeit models out there...

[@mornaydelport2181]

Hi Steve, thanks for your really informative video, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm very new to B&O, and I would like your advice please. I need a new pair of headphones, and it's really a struggle between B&O and B&W. I think that I'll be going with B&O. Please can you recommend a pair for me. I was thinking either the Beoplay EQ or the Beoplay EX. What do you think?

[@soundsheavenly]

Thanks for your kind words. I am sorry but I don’t use any in ear headphones, I only use over ear headphones so I can’t comment on the EQ or EX, or anything from B&W. I suggest trying these in store to see which one you prefer

[@ajc5869]

I love walking around in Uni with my bright blue Form 2's people always ask me about them :)

[@soundsheavenly]

There is something special and timeless about the Form 2 design - simple, stylish and somehow quite unique. They are probably the best headphone I have ever owned for attracting positive comments from passers by!

[@thisisnev]

In defence of the U70s, the worn-out pads do them no favours. I took the plunge and fitted China-sourced substitute earpads to my U70s, and they really improve the low-end response. They still demand a lot of power, though. Even a portable headphone amp can't make them sound good with a phone as source - so no opportunities for getting crowned King of the Hipsters when you're out and about, I'm afraid. But pair them up with the right amp indoors - I drive them with an equally vintage Luxman L-113A - and they're a treat to hear. Speaking of being out and about, by the way, I have a pair of H3 earbuds. Very pleased with them, too!

[@soundsheavenly]

Thanks, that is good to know! The U70s still sounded great, even without the earpads. They were the one classic headphone I tried that could keep pace with B&O's current range. I haven't tried the H3 yet....that could be a topic for another video ;-)

[@leeshepherd6512]

Can you link us to the China sourced Earpads please.

[@salvadorlimon9678]

Great vid. The h6. Your opinion? Thnks

[@soundsheavenly]

Thanks! I liked the H6, but it was a bit bass-heavy for my taste. Well worth listening to though, please let me know what you think when you have heard it.

[@davidh7088]

What is your opinion on the earbuds? I just tried a pair of E8s and found the treble to be very high. Also they were very quiet. I found I had to max out the volume. The highs were far too harsh and I will have to return them. I think I will look at over ear again. If only form 2 were wireless. They are gorgeous and very slim and discreet. Excellent comparison video!

[@soundsheavenly]

Hi, I have never worn a pair of earbuds in my life, I just don’t get on with them - sorry! I always go for a wired connection, wireless isn’t my thing 😉

[@davidh7088]

@@soundsheavenly it was my first time too. I think I'll also stick to wired!

[@gnops]

Dear Mr Steve. I own several B&O headphones, including the U70, Form 1, the old Form 2 with the ridiculously long cable and the Beoplay Form 2. I haven't used the U70, due the leather has been worn off, (It also smells). My Form 1 was my favourite. Back in 2010, I visited the B&O store in Milan and for some reason, they had the original foam pads. I paid around €30 and felt I got ripped off. Shortly after, the cable with the phone twirls gave up and I managed to get an original Form 2 cable and soldered it. The foam wasn't of good quality and so was the cable. Now the headphone is collecting dust. I found a small crack in the plastic frame. I dare not to use it and I don't know how to repair it. As a pseudo-audiophile, I think that the B&O Form 2 sounds and looks better than the Beoplay version. The B&O version doesn't have the big logos on the sides. My problem is that I have 2 non-working B&O Form 2 that doesn't work. The plastic frame where you adjust the size broke off and when I contact my local B&O store or online customer service, their response was that they don't have spare parts for the Beoplay line. I'm very upset with how B&O legacy has lost their USP. They were known for having spare parts, even for the smallest screw. Now, they can't even get a small plastic button for my Beoplay H3 and the ANC button doesn't work on my other H3 ANC. My empirical opinion is that the quality of Beoplay products is really bad. So basically I'm what they call in the business "heavy user/brand loyal customer". In total, I have 8 headphones and 2 of them kinda works from B&O. My question to you: Do you know someone or can hit me up with some information on how I can get my vintage headphones repaired or restored? My dream is to be able to listen with my U70 on my future Beosystem 7000, Form 1 for my custom iPod Classic and Form 2 for my casual iPhone.

[@soundsheavenly]

Hi, sorry to hear that you are having problems with your B&O headphones. Unfortunately, I don't know of a repairer that I can recommend, but I suggest joining the forum at www.beoworld.org and asking a question there - I am sure that there will be someone from your local area on the forum who will know of a repairer. Hope this helps.

[@pascalkrzeminski7341]

The best B&O's headphone is the H2, ever the lack of bass. So confortable und lightweight. I use it daily.

[@soundsheavenly]

I used to own a pair of H2s and I really liked them, unfortunately I couldn't get hold of a pair for this test. They give a good, balanced sound and they are great value when they come up pre-owned on eBay

[@vincentliu2134]

Built quality fantastic, but in term of comfort, Bose qc35 and sennheiser pxc 550 ,Sony xm4 all better than H9i, but who cares, if it already bang Olufsen. I own H9i, pxc 550, and lot of bowers Wilkins product, bang Olufsen will always have special place in my heart. Music quality ,signature sound, plus stylish living atmosphere is all I need.

[@soundsheavenly]

I agree, my Sennheiser headphones are still the most comfortable I have ever had, but I love my B&O H95 for the awesome sound and great build quality

[@browserrr1]

In defence of the Form 1, when you listen to it without the earpads you should not wear them in the same position as with pads. Being a half open system you do need some space in between. Before I crafted pads myself from a piece of foam I wore them halfway behind my earshell, making the sound experience more like with pads. The hard material makes it an uncomfortable way to wear it though. No doubt the advancing technique has made it obsolete compared to its newer counterparts but it would be sad if it was the other way around.

[@soundsheavenly]

Thanks, that is a good point. The Form 1s certainly suffered from not having their pads, both in terms of comfort and sound quality. If they are as good as the U70 when in full health, then they will be superb headphones!

[@browserrr1]

@@soundsheavenly Long time ago I listened to a U70. My father had one. Don't know if it is still around somewhere. If I manage to get hold of it and are able to do a comparison with my Form 1 I will report my findings.

[@soundsheavenly]

@@browserrr1 Thanks! That will be great to hear your views on these two headphones, please let me know what you think.....

[@nguyenvietlamanh5464]

Can anyone tells me how does the h2 compare to the h8 sound-wise

[@soundsheavenly]

H2 are good headphones for the price but there are big improvements to be had as you move up the range. Best to hear them for yourself before making your purchase if you can

[@lorenzonatali8913]

Hi, I appreciated your work! I bought today a pair of bang olufsen H6. what do you think of this headset? is ok? i prefer this at h8i. THANKS lORENZO

[@soundsheavenly]

Thanks, glad you like the videos. Yes these are good headphones, they are great value for money now. For performance I suggest trying the newer H9 as these are very comfortable and sound great

[@lorenzonatali8913]

@@soundsheavenly THANKS! YOU CONSEIL ME CHANGE FOR THE H6 THE CLASSIC JACK WITH ANOTHER ONE? WHICH? THANKS SO MUCH :)

[@soundsheavenly]

@lorenzonatali8913 Thanks, this jack cable will help to give you the best sound: soundsheavenly.com/bo-play/150-2609-premium-cable-for-beoplay-h95-hx-portal-h2-h4-h6-h7-h8-h8i-h9-h9i-headphones-with-metal-plugs.html#/16-length-15m

[@richardleedy1122]

Do I need to have e-arc to get Dolby Atmos?

[@soundsheavenly]

As this is a headphone review video, I'm guessing you aren't looking to get Atmos to your headphones? Please can you email me via the contact page at soundsheavenly.com with full details of the equipment that you plan to use, then I can advise you correctly on how to get Atmos and if this is needed?

[@kkops]

watched this video with my H9i on.

[@soundsheavenly]

Superb! They are great headphones

[@fingermyass1605]

And I with my h4

[@soundsheavenly]

@@fingermyass1605 Excellent!

[@Cryptoman_5000]

Strange, your comparing a 40 year old headphone to a new one...hmmm, I would hope the H9I's were better but here's something you don't think about. The UD 70 and other older models all hold intrinsic value based on collectibility while the current B&O's are typical run if the mill headphones in today's market with no intrinsic value. It's smarter to buy the old ones since there are far less survivors of those then ones they currently produce.

[@soundsheavenly]

Hi, yes I know this was a strange idea, but I wanted to hear how the sound, fit and build quality of B&O's headphones had changed over 40 years (ignoring the wireless capabilities of the newer models for the comparison). I use a range of new and classic headphones at home, so I feel that good headphones should still be usable, regardless of their age - hopefully this came through in the video.

[@NeptuneReturnz]

Stax are the best "earphones".

[@soundsheavenly]

NeptuneReturnz Yes, they are great earphones! I am using Sennheisers at the moment and loving them, I have also had superb B&O and Grado earphones.

[@veg7nlif376]

The new models are made in China, I bought them and im not happy with the quality. They are beautiful, but the sound quality sucks.

[@soundsheavenly]

I'm surprised that you didn't like the sound - which model of headphones did you buy? Are you sure that they were genuine B&O from an official dealer or the B&O website?

[@veg7nlif376]

@@soundsheavenly Yes, I bought the "Beoplay H9i" in an official shop in Copenhagen. If you compare the sound quality with the Bose or even SONY noise cancelling headphones, then they are not even close when it comes to sound quality. other Issue with this headphone are: * The "Touch" buttons on the aluminum are not responsive * The Physical button for tuning the headphone on/off does occasionally not work. These are clearly not the bang Olufsen that we know.

[@soundsheavenly]

@@veg7nlif376 I am very surprised, these should be good quality headphones, I am sorry to hear that you had this bad experience.

[@alexsmith1207]

@@veg7nlif376 the quality is top notch, i seen other people even in 5 years still have the h9's lol. If this hold the truth good build headphones with sound quality is fantastic. Seeing Mr. mobile Michael Fisher also praising the h9i my guess is that the sound profile isn't your taste. I'm into energetic, dynamic fun sound which lacked in a headphone i had (Dali IO-6 What's Hifi review). The best headphones from B&O according to some reviews and praises is the H6 most likely the 2 gen.

[@soundsheavenly]

Yes the quality is superb. The country of manufacture doesn’t affect the end result. I agree that the H6 sounds great, but I prefer the fit of the H9 and H95 personally