Heavys H1H vs. Sonos Ace: Which New Headphones Offer the Best Audio Performance?
Heavys vs. Sonos: Exploring the Latest Headphones for Every Listener
When it comes to new releases in the headphone market, Heavys and Sonos have both made waves with their unique offerings. While Heavys caters to a niche audience of heavy music enthusiasts, Sonos’ Ace headphones are designed to expand their famous home theater ecosystem into the personal audio space. After trying both sets, I’ve got a solid take on how each performs—and which might be right for you.
In this article, I’ll dive into the standout features, pros, cons, and who should consider buying Heavys or Sonos headphones. Whether you’re an audiophile or simply want great sound, there’s something here for everyone.
Heavys H1H: Designed for Heavy Metal Fans
Who is Heavys For?
Heavys H1H headphones are unlike anything I’ve tested before. These headphones are explicitly designed with heavy music fans in mind, particularly for genres like heavy metal and hard rock. However, as I found out, they are versatile enough to cater to other music styles too. If you love deep bass that rattles your bones and want headphones that can keep up with high-energy sound, Heavys is your go-to.
Sound Signature: Bass-Lovers Rejoice
Heavys brings the thunder with a bass-heavy sound profile. This isn’t just about cranking up the low end; Heavys uses proprietary technology to make the sound feel louder and more powerful without hurting your ears. In tracks by Metallica and Black Sabbath, the punch of the basslines and drum kicks were palpable.
The mids and treble are slightly subdued, making vocals less prominent than on more balanced headphones, but for the right kind of music, this works beautifully. The soundstage feels wide and energetic—perfect for live concert-like experiences. That said, if you’re looking for neutral or accurate sound, Heavys might not be for you.
Build Quality: Rugged Yet Comfortable
One thing I noticed right away is how sturdy the Heavys headphones are. They fold for portability but don’t lay flat like some other models, which could be an issue if space is tight in your bag. The design feels durable, and the earcups are generously padded, offering comfort even during long listening sessions.
These cans are big and bold, much like their sound. It’s clear they were built with the heavy music fan in mind, but their build quality makes them great for anyone who values durability.
How Do They Compare?
While Heavys excels in its niche, they’re competing against big names like Sony and Sennheiser, which also offer ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) headphones. In terms of sound tuning, Heavys is far more bass-heavy, while Sony and Sennheiser go for more balanced, subdued approaches. Personally, I find Heavys to be more fun for music with driving rhythms, while other brands may appeal to listeners who prefer a cleaner, more traditional sound.
Sonos Ace: Premium Sound for Audiophiles
Seamless Integration with the Sonos Ecosystem
Sonos has long been known for their high-quality home audio products, and now they’ve expanded into the headphone market with the Sonos Ace. If you’re already part of the Sonos ecosystem, integrating these headphones with your home setup is seamless. The Ace’s killer features—like TV Audio Swap and TrueCinema—are built to work alongside Sonos soundbars, letting you switch between speakers and headphones without missing a beat.
I tested the Ace while watching action-packed scenes on my Sonos Arc soundbar, and the transition to the headphones was flawless. If you’re someone who loves watching movies late at night without disturbing others, this feature alone makes Sonos worth the price.
Sound Quality: Precision and Clarity
Where Heavys pumps out bass, Sonos Ace delivers a more balanced and refined sound profile. With Dolby Atmos and spatial audio, these headphones offer a truly immersive experience. I especially appreciated how the dynamic head-tracking adjusted the soundstage as I moved, giving a sense of surround sound that felt natural and immersive.
Listening to classical music or jazz on the Ace was an absolute delight. The mids were crisp, the highs were clear, and the bass had depth without being overwhelming. If you enjoy genres that rely on clarity and detail, like vocal jazz, acoustic, or instrumental, these headphones will not disappoint.
Premium Design: Sleek and Comfortable
Sonos went for a minimalist and sleek design with the Ace. The matte finish, dark aluminum accents, and plush leather earpads scream luxury. Plus, they come with a recycled-material carry case that feels just as premium. Unlike Heavys, Sonos is clearly targeting an upscale, sophisticated audience with these headphones.
The fit is snug but not too tight, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods. They’re also designed to travel well, fitting neatly into their slim case, which is perfect for commuters or frequent flyers.
Key Differences Between Heavys and Sonos Headphones
Sound Profile
The most significant difference between these two sets of headphones is the sound. Heavys H1H is all about bass, with an energetic soundstage that’s perfect for loud, intense music. On the other hand, Sonos Ace is designed for precision and clarity, making them better suited for audiophiles who appreciate balance across all frequencies.
Price and Value
Pricewise, Heavys sits at around $269, while Sonos Ace comes in at a hefty $449. So, what do you get for the extra cost? With Sonos, you’re paying for more than just great sound—you’re getting seamless integration with an entire ecosystem, superior build quality, and features like Dolby Atmos and TrueCinema.
If you’re part of the Sonos ecosystem, the Ace is a no-brainer, especially with its ability to work in harmony with other Sonos products. If you’re purely about the music and love heavy bass, Heavys offers fantastic value for its price.
Best Use Cases
- Heavys is best for those who love hard-hitting music genres and crave an impactful, bass-heavy sound.
- Sonos Ace is ideal for those who want an immersive audio experience, whether for music or movies, and already own other Sonos products.
Who Should Buy Which?
For Heavy Music Enthusiasts
If your playlist is filled with rock, metal, or bass-heavy EDM, Heavys H1H will give you the sound signature you crave. It’s fun, dynamic, and adds extra punch to your music. However, if you need headphones for a variety of genres, keep in mind that the sound tuning is very specific.
For Home Theater Lovers and Audiophiles
If you’re a part of the Sonos ecosystem or want an immersive audio experience with your TV and music, Sonos Ace is the clear choice. The superior sound quality, comfort, and premium features justify the higher price point, especially for movie lovers and audiophiles.
Final Verdict: Heavys or Sonos?
Both Heavys and Sonos bring something unique to the table. If you’re a fan of heavy music, love deep bass, and want headphones that pack a punch, Heavys H1H is a great choice. On the other hand, if you want premium audio, seamless integration with a home theater system, and are already in the Sonos ecosystem, the Sonos Ace is worth every penny.
Ultimately, it comes down to what you value most in a pair of headphones—fun and power or precision and integration.
