Design and features:Although this Bluetooth wireless home/studio-style over-ear model lacks active noise reduction, the closed design helps to reduce both outside noise and sound leaking out into your environment. When using a wired connection to a device, the headphones have low sensitivity; that means that while they can provide satisfying volume levels when used with home audio equipment and some higher-powered portable gear, they may not be a good match for lower-powered mobile devices. The BT540i has an integrated microphone, volume, music player function, and call connect/disconnect controls that work with Bluetooth devices. This model has NFC for touch pairing with a Bluetooth device that also has this feature, and its earcups can swivel flat for travel and storage. It comes with a detachable 52-inch standard audio cable for wired use, a USB charging cable, and a carrying case.
Sound quality: The BT540i delivers very good overall sound, with a neutral character. Bass has good impact and goes fairly deep, but lacks a bit of definition. Midrange is slightly thin and grainy, and treble is extended but slightly pronounced and sizzly. The overall sound is somewhat open, with good dynamics. There was no significant difference in sound quality whether a wired or Bluetooth connection was used.
Comfort: We found that these headphones can produce a sense of moderate pressure around the ears, and the earpads might feel hot and/or sticky after prolonged use. In order for this model to produce its best sound quality, the earpads must seal well around the ears; without a good earpad seal the bass becomes recessed. If you wear eyeglasses, the frames might interfere with the earpad seal.
