Overview

The Direct Sound EX29 Plus Extreme Isolation Headphones are engineered for professionals who demand uncompromising sound isolation and clarity. These headphones feature advanced noise isolation technology, offering 36.7 dB of passive noise isolation for a more immersive listening experience. Whether you're in a busy studio or a noisy office, the EX29 Plus headphones are designed to keep you focused and immersed in your audio. With a closed-back design and over-ear form factor, these headphones ensure high-quality sound while blocking out external distractions.

Features & Benefits

The EX29 Plus headphones offer impressive 40mm closed-back drivers that deliver clear and accurate sound. Coupled with 36.7 dB of passive noise isolation, these headphones excel in environments where focused listening is crucial. Their foldable design makes them easy to store and travel with, while the retractable cable feature reduces tangling. With a broad frequency response of 20-20,000 Hz, these headphones reproduce a wide range of audio, making them suitable for both casual and professional use. Their comfortable fit ensures long-lasting comfort for extended listening sessions.

Best For

These isolation headphones are ideal for musicians and audio engineers who require accurate, isolated sound for mixing or mastering. They’re also perfect for anyone working in a noisy environment, such as in open offices or on noisy commutes. The EX29 Plus headphones are tailored for critical listening, making them a great choice for people who value sound quality in every detail. Whether you’re editing audio, recording in a studio, or simply looking for headphones that block out distractions, these headphones offer the performance you need.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the EX29 Plus headphones for their exceptional noise isolation, especially in professional settings. Many appreciate the comfort of the over-ear design during extended use. However, some mention that the headphones feel bulky for casual, everyday listening, which might be a downside for those seeking portability. On the positive side, reviews often highlight the clarity and precision of the audio, making them well-suited for professional audio tasks. Overall, they have a strong reputation for being durable, effective, and comfortable for focused work.

Pros

  • The 36.7 dB passive noise isolation effectively blocks out distractions in noisy environments.
  • Comfortable design allows for long listening sessions without discomfort, especially for professionals.
  • Foldable design makes these headphones easy to transport and store when not in use.
  • The 40mm closed-back drivers deliver accurate and clear sound, which is ideal for critical listening.
  • These headphones are praised for their durability, handling extended studio sessions without wear.
  • Great for studio use or mixing environments where precise audio isolation is crucial.

Cons

  • The bulky design can be uncomfortable for casual, everyday use or for those who prefer a lighter option.
  • Wired connection may not appeal to users who prefer wireless or Bluetooth headphones.
  • Some users find them too heavy for extended use during travel or commuting.
  • Not suitable for casual listeners who seek a more open and relaxed sound profile.
  • The retractable cable can feel limiting for users who prefer a longer or more flexible cable.
  • The closed-back design can make them feel isolating for users who need to hear ambient sounds.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide from various languages and platforms, we present the scores for the Direct Sound EX29 Plus Extreme Isolation Headphones. All feedback was carefully reviewed, filtering out spam, bot, and incentivized reviews to ensure the highest quality insights. Both strengths and pain points are reflected in these ratings, giving you a balanced view of what to expect from this headphone.

Noise Isolation
94%
Many users praise the impressive noise isolation, particularly for focused listening in noisy environments. With 36.7 dB of passive noise isolation, this headphone excels at blocking out external distractions, making it ideal for professional use in studios and other noisy settings.
Some buyers found that while the isolation is effective, it can feel too intense for casual listening or prolonged wear in quieter settings. This may not be ideal for those who prefer a more open sound experience or need a more relaxed listening environment.
Comfort for Long Sessions
88%
Comfort is a highlight for many users, with the over-ear design offering a snug fit and soft cushioning. The padded ear cups help reduce discomfort during long listening or recording sessions, which is crucial for professionals who wear headphones for extended periods.
However, a few users mentioned that the headphones feel bulky, especially during extended wear. Some also felt that the fit could be a bit tight for larger heads, potentially leading to discomfort after long use.
Audio Clarity and Accuracy
91%
The 40mm drivers deliver clear and accurate sound, which has been highly appreciated by users working in audio production. The sound is balanced, with sharp highs and rich lows, making them ideal for tasks like mixing and critical listening where precision is key.
A small number of users felt that the bass response could be more pronounced, especially for those looking for a more bass-heavy sound. These headphones are designed for accuracy, so bass enthusiasts may find them a bit lacking in that regard.
Build Quality
87%
The build quality is solid, with sturdy materials that provide a professional look and feel. The retractable cable and durable construction ensure the headphones can withstand regular use in demanding environments like studios and on location.
However, some users pointed out that the headphones could feel a bit heavy and bulky for everyday use. The construction, while robust, might not appeal to those looking for a more portable, lightweight option for travel or casual listening.
Portability
79%
21%
The foldable design allows for easier storage and portability, making it somewhat convenient for users who need to carry them between sessions or locations. This feature is helpful for professionals who need to store them in tight spaces.
Despite the foldable design, the headphones are still quite bulky and may not be ideal for users who prioritize lightweight, travel-friendly options. The weight and size can be cumbersome for those who want headphones for on-the-go use.
Design and Aesthetics
83%
The sleek, professional design of these headphones is often praised for its aesthetic appeal. Users appreciate the minimalist look that complements its high-performance features, making it suitable for both studio environments and casual settings.
Some users, however, feel that the design is a bit utilitarian and may not be stylish enough for everyday wear outside professional environments. Those looking for fashion-forward headphones may prefer more colorful or trendy alternatives.
Noise Leakage
90%
Thanks to the closed-back design, the headphones offer excellent sound isolation not only for the wearer but also for others around them. The minimal noise leakage makes these headphones great for use in shared spaces like offices or recording studios.
A few users noted that while leakage is minimal, it still might be noticeable at higher volumes. This could be a concern in extremely quiet environments where the sound may disturb others nearby.
Durability
84%
These headphones are built to last, with quality materials and a robust design that ensures longevity, even with frequent use. Users appreciate the sturdiness, especially those using them for demanding tasks in professional environments.
Some customers felt that despite the strong build, the headphones could benefit from more flexible components. The lack of adjustability in some parts may make them less comfortable for users with specific head sizes.
Ease of Use
86%
The EX29 Plus headphones are easy to set up and use, with simple wired connectivity and intuitive controls. The retractable cable feature is a particular plus, as it minimizes tangling and allows for easy storage when not in use.
While easy to use, the wired design may not suit those who prefer wireless headphones for convenience. Some users felt restricted by the cable length, especially when moving around during extended listening sessions.
Value for Money
92%
Given the high-quality sound, noise isolation, and comfort, many users feel these headphones provide excellent value for money. Professionals in need of reliable, durable headphones for critical listening or mixing find them to be a worthwhile investment.
However, some users pointed out that the price may be higher than what casual listeners are willing to pay. For those who are only looking for basic headphones, the premium features may not justify the cost.
Cable Length and Retractability
78%
22%
The retractable cable is a convenient feature, reducing the clutter and keeping the headphones neat when stored. Users appreciate the ability to adjust the cable length, offering flexibility when connecting to different devices.
Despite the retractable feature, some users felt the cable could be longer for more freedom of movement during use. The retractable mechanism also occasionally caused frustration for those who wanted a more traditional, fixed-length cable.
Customer Support
80%
20%
Customers who reached out to customer support found them responsive and helpful, providing timely solutions to issues. The warranty support is also noted as reliable for those who require replacements or repairs.
However, some buyers felt that response times could be slow during busy periods, and a few mentioned the need for clearer instructions on troubleshooting. While helpful, customer service isn't always as fast as some would expect.

Suitable for:

The Direct Sound EX29 Plus Extreme Isolation Headphones are highly suitable for professionals who need precise audio isolation, such as musicians, audio engineers, and studio producers. Their 36.7 dB of passive noise isolation and accurate sound reproduction make them ideal for environments where focus and precision are paramount. If you're working in a loud, open office or a bustling studio, these headphones will help you concentrate on your work without distractions. The foldable design also makes them a great choice for those who need to carry them between different workspaces or locations, like sound engineers on the go or frequent travelers.

Not suitable for:

While the EX29 Plus headphones excel in professional settings, they are less ideal for casual listeners or those seeking a lightweight, portable option. Their bulky design and wired connectivity may be off-putting for users who want a more convenient, wireless experience for daily commutes or casual use. Additionally, those who prefer a more relaxed, open-back listening experience or need headphones for mixed-use, including entertainment or recreational listening, might find the closed-back isolation too intense for general wear.

Specifications

  • Type: Dynamic closed-back headphones designed for precise sound isolation.
  • Noise Isolation: Provides 36.7 dB of passive noise isolation to block out background distractions.
  • Driver Size: Equipped with 40mm closed-back drivers for accurate and clear sound reproduction.
  • Frequency Response: Wide frequency response range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz for full-range audio performance.
  • Impedance: Impedance of 32 Ohms, making them suitable for most audio devices.
  • Sensitivity: Sensitivity of 114 dB at 1 kHz, ensuring clear and detailed sound at various volumes.
  • Form Factor: Over-ear design for maximum sound isolation and comfort during long sessions.
  • Connectivity: Wired connection with a retractable cable for convenience and reduced tangling.
  • Weight: Weighs 1.12 pounds, providing a solid yet manageable build for extended use.
  • Dimensions: Measures 7.5 x 5.5 x 4.5 inches, compact enough for easy portability.
  • Cable Feature: Features a retractable cable for tangle-free storage and easy management.
  • Build Material: Constructed with durable materials to withstand regular use in professional environments.
  • Comfort: Padded ear cups and headband ensure comfort during long listening or mixing sessions.
  • Portability: Foldable design allows for easy storage and portability, ideal for on-the-go professionals.
  • Sound Isolation: Optimized for high noise isolation, making them ideal for use in noisy environments.
  • Application: Best suited for musicians, audio engineers, and critical listeners in controlled environments.
  • Durability: Built to last with robust materials, suitable for professional-grade use.
  • Ideal Use Case: Perfect for use in studios, live performances, and other professional audio settings.

FAQ

These headphones are specifically designed for professional-grade sound isolation, offering 36.7 dB of passive noise isolation. This makes them ideal for critical listening and mixing in noisy environments such as studios or offices.

Many users report that these headphones are very comfortable, especially during extended listening sessions. Their over-ear design and padded ear cups ensure a snug fit without causing discomfort over time, making them great for professionals who need to wear them for hours.

The EX29 Plus headphones are wired. They use a retractable cable that ensures easy storage and minimizes tangling, though they do not offer Bluetooth connectivity.

While these headphones are excellent for professional environments, some users find them bulky for casual listening or everyday use. Their closed-back design and passive noise isolation are optimized for focused, immersive listening rather than casual listening on the go.

The sound quality is clear and accurate, thanks to the 40mm closed-back drivers. Users note that the sound is well-balanced and suitable for critical listening tasks like mixing or mastering audio, where precision is key.

Yes, these headphones feature a foldable design, making them easy to store and transport. This is particularly helpful for musicians, audio engineers, and anyone who needs to bring them between locations.

These headphones are best suited for musicians, audio engineers, and anyone working in environments where sound isolation is critical, such as studios or offices with background noise. They are also ideal for professionals who need long-lasting comfort and precision sound.

Some users have pointed out that the EX29 Plus headphones are bulky, which might be a downside for people looking for lightweight headphones for travel or casual use. The closed-back design also means they may not be ideal for those who need to hear their surroundings.

These headphones are built for durability, making them a good choice for long studio sessions. The materials used are sturdy, and the headphones are designed to withstand regular use without showing significant wear. However, like most headphones, they should still be handled with care.

Yes, these headphones are specifically designed for noisy environments. The high level of passive noise isolation (36.7 dB) effectively blocks out distractions, making them a great choice for people working in open offices or studios where focus is critical.