Bowers & Wilkins
Bowers and Wilkins C5
The Bowers & Wilkins C5 in-ear headphones offer a stunning audio experience with exceptional breadth, spaciousness, and accuracy. Their unique design features a sleek cylinder that extends from the ear, weighted towards the ear and secured by an adjustable loop for a comfortable and firm fit. Despite their small size, the 9mm drive units deliver a rich and detailed soundstage. They feature a sturdy Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) cable for reliable wired connectivity and include in-line controls for Apple devices.
$179.00
More C5 Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.0
/ 5
Category Rank
4974
/ 6142
#4974 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
-70%
Below average
Weight
20
/ grams
Who it's for
- Premium Sound Signature
- Innovative Secure Loop Design
- Exceptional Build Quality
Who should skip it
- Significant Microphonics
- Potentially Bulky Housing
- High Price Point
Key Specs
Weight
20 grams
Frequency Response
10Hz to 20kHz
Distortion
<1%
Impedance
32 ohms
Sensitivity
118 dB/v @ 1 kHz
Driver Size
9mm
Connectivity
Wired
Compatibility
Apple iPod, iPhone, and iPad
Features
- Premium metal earpiece housings
- Elegant and stylish industrial design
- Wired connectivity with OFC cable
- Remote control for iPhone/iDevices
- Passive noise isolation
- Secure in-ear fit
- Durable construction
What customers say
Reviewers consistently highlight the superb audio quality of these headphones. The sound signature is rich, detailed, and warm, offering a sophisticated listening experience with excellent clarity that satisfies many audiophiles. However, the physical design presents a significant challenge. The unique Secure Loop system often results in an inconsistent fit for users. This difficulty in achieving a proper seal frequently compromises the bass response. While build materials feel premium, overall satisfaction hinges entirely on adapting to the polarizing fit mechanism. Those who manage the ergonomics are thrilled with the performance.
Know before you buy
The Secure Loop design uses a cushioned, adjustable wire that hooks into the inner cartilage of your ear. This keeps the earpiece firmly positioned, preventing it from falling out during movement while distributing the weight comfortably.
The in-line remote and microphone are specifically designed for Apple devices like the iPhone, iPad, and iPod. While you may be able to use them for basic audio playback on other devices, full functionality for volume and track control is not guaranteed.
The C5 uses a secure in-ear fit to create a physical seal that blocks out ambient noise. While it is highly effective at reducing background chatter and office hums, it does not feature active noise cancellation technology.
Despite their compact size, the 9mm drivers are engineered to provide a spacious, detailed soundstage. You can expect a balanced audio profile with clear highs and a rich, accurate low end.
The C5 features a high-quality Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) cable designed for longevity and signal integrity. It is built to withstand daily use, though like all wired headphones, it should be stored carefully to prevent tangling.
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