It’s been seven years since Apple made the bold move to remove the 3.5mm headphone jack from the iPhone, leading to the increased popularity of wireless headphones. Until now, listening to hi-res music on a phone often meant finding a rare phone with a 3.5mm jack or embracing the dongle life. A new generation of wired headphones has emerged, promising audiophile quality on any phone without the need for a dongle. One of the key players in this revival is True Ears Not Lost (TLE), a relatively unfamiliar name in the industry. Questyle, the company behind TLE, has been producing HiFi equipment for years. Last November, the company introduced its NHB12 Lightning headphones featuring a built-in digital audio converter (DAC) capable of handling high-quality Apple Music Hi-Res Lossless (192kHz/24-bit) files. Prior to CES this month, Questyle launched a USB-C model, the $350 NHB15, making its range of headphones compatible with almost any smartphone, tablet, or PC. Another company, Hidizs, claims its DAC-equipped ST2 Pro is the world’s first hi-res digital IEM. While this is yet to be seen, it’s expected that similar products will follow. Notably, with iPhones transitioning to USB-C and the possibility of plug-and-play hi-res audio, the stage is set for a headset revival – although the likelihood of this happening remains to be seen. 
Photo by James Trew for Engadget It’s worth noting that all USB-C headphones have some form of built-in DAC, but they are usually more discreet. “Hi-res” music is a broad term, following Apple’s definition as anything above 48kHz. In recent years, some HiFi companies have released USB-C cables with built-in DACs that support higher resolution. Queststyle and Hidizs are now bringing it all together, making their products appealing to a casual but discerning audience. While the high-quality audio they offer is appreciated, finding ones suitable for on-the-go use has been a challenge. Other options come close, such as the impressive DragonFly Cobalt by AudioQuest or the excellent Onyx by THX, but they all require an additional device between your phone and headphones. The NHB15, however, offers a more straightforward experience, no more complicated than connecting a standard 3.5mm set. The DAC is unobtrusive, resembling media controls at first glance. It could be enhanced by adding buttons for increased functionality, but for now, it effectively enables users to change their music from zero to something meaningful. LEDs indicate whether lossless music (one lit) or live lossless (two lit) is being played, providing a simple yet effective method. 
Apple It’s important to note that even the cheapest 3.5mm earphones available on Amazon are apparently lossless headphones, but TLE represents something more meaningful. It could be likened to “UHD” for USB-C headphones, with broader support for high-resolution audio beyond Apple’s standard lossless (48kHz), making it useful for work and music. While using Qobuz, I sometimes didn’t get two LEDs due to different types of “loss” on the platform, adding an element of fun as I listened to the sound before adjusting the DAC to see if I guessed correctly. I usually didn’t, but it still serves as clear evidence. The NHB15 provides a more neutral sound with less bass compared to regular Beats headphones, accompanied by decent brightness in the high frequencies. Even when listening to Spotify, which currently offers lossless music, these IEMs provide an audio space that is difficult to achieve with Bluetooth buds. It’s hard to determine whether these are high-quality IEMs with a good DAC, or a DAC with good drivers connected, or something in between. Questyle includes a standard 3.5mm cable in the NHB15 box for use with all your gear or for simulation purposes. To my ears, Spotify music sounded excellent through the reliable 3.5mm connection connected to my PC. Additionally, you can use the NHB15’s DAC cable with any IEMs you already own, as long as they have a 2-pin connector, making it a versatile concept, if nothing else. 
Picture taken by James Trew for EngadgetThere are various attempts to bring wireless headphones up to par with wired options. Qualcomm’s lineup of codecs is popular, with the latest AptX Lossless technology showing promise, even if support for it is limited in both phones and headphones. Then there’s the new kid on the block: the first MEMS-based headset. These “solid” drivers aren’t designed for wireless headphones, but California-based xMEMS is touting its technology as a way to deliver a HiFi experience without the need for codecs. While the initial commercial products are promising, it may take until next year for MEMS-based headphones to realize their full potential. The question remains: who are these products aimed at? The average person who listens to regular music doesn’t require a premium DAC. Many audiophiles might be interested, but they’re competing with dedicated mobile DACs and bringing your own headphones, where simplicity is not a priority. Ultimately, these products were made for individuals like me, the casual audiophiles who appreciate convenience, minimal noise, and quality sound above all else. This article contains affiliate links. If you click on such a link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission.
