Cambridge Audio has launched its first wireless over-ear headphones, called the Melomania P100. The use of class AB amplifiers and a playing time of no less than 100 hours, provided noise cancelling is switched off, are striking. The user can replace the batteries and ear cushions themselves, which probably extends the lifespan considerably.
Cambridge Audio Melomania P100: Class AB amplifiers
In the summer of 2019, Cambridge Audio launched its first wireless headphones, the in-ear model Melomania 1 . The manufacturer later released a few variations on it. The last variation was the Melomania M100 , which was released this spring. The Melomania M100 has Actrive Noise Cancelling (ANC) and a long playing time for an in-ear headphone.
Cambridge Audio has now launched its first over-ear model with the Melomania P100. The Melomania P100 features Class AB amplifiers. The drivers have a three-layer Mylar diaphragm with a diameter of 40 millimeters. According to Cambridge Audio, Class AB amplification provides a more immersive listening experience than the Class D technology used by many competitors.
To ensure that the combination of high-quality drivers and industry-leading amplification works to its full potential, the P100 features Bluetooth 5.3 with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Sound. There’s support for aptX Lossless and aptX Adaptive (up to 24-bit/96kHz), along with codec support for SBC and AAC. Bluetooth Multipoint connectivity is also included. Incidentally, in addition to wireless Bluetooth connectivity, wired music delivery is also possible via a USB-C to 3.5mm jack or USB-C to USB-C. Both cables are included.
The Melomania P100 naturally features Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) with three user-selectable settings, along with Transparency mode.
Battery life sets a new standard in the wireless over-ear headphone market. The Melomania P100 has a battery life of up to 60 hours with ANC turned on, and with ANC turned off, the Melomania P100 plays for 100 hours before needing to be recharged, according to Cambridge Audio. This supports a continuous listening experience for a work week or a holiday weekend. What’s more, a quick five-minute charge can provide up to two hours of listening with ANC on, or four hours with ANC off. That’s handy when you’re in a hurry.
The Melomania Connect app for iOS and Android gives users access to a seven-band EQ with six presets, along with a gaming mode that supports precise sound synchronization for gaming and watching TV.
Finally, Cambridge Audio has also thought about sustainability aspects. User-replaceable batteries and ear cushions extend the life of the Melomania P100. The ear cushions are made of vegan leather. Furthermore, the manufacturer has used 50% recycled plastic and aluminum, as well as recycled neodymium for the drivers. Plastic-free packaging has been chosen.
Cambridge Audio Melomania P100: price and delivery information
The Melomania P100 is available in white and black and retails for 279 euros in both cases.