Dali, the renowned speaker manufacturer, is set to release its latest wireless headphones, the Dali IO-12, at a price point of $1,299. This represents a significant increase from their previous offering, the $500 Dali IO-6. However, Dali asserts that the new headphones are worth the price due to the innovative technology utilized in their drivers.
One standout feature of the IO-12 is the implementation of Dali’s patented Soft Magnetic Compound (SMC) magnet system, making them the world’s first to utilize this technology. SMC reduces hysteresis, a distortion caused by resistance to the voice coil in traditional magnet systems. By minimizing hysteresis, the IO-12 can dramatically reduce uneven harmonic distortion, resulting in exceptional sound quality.
Krestian Pedersen, Dali’s head of product management, claims that the IO-12 headphones offer a level of midrange clarity comparable to electrostatic headphones. Electrostatic headphones are renowned for their exceptional sound clarity and transparency but often come with a high price tag and require a dedicated power supply.
Additionally, the IO-12 incorporates construction techniques inspired by Dali’s speaker lineup, including the use of a voice coil former. This construction choice further contributes to reducing distortion.
As wireless headphones, the IO-12 supports various Bluetooth codecs, including SBC, AAC, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive, enabling high-quality audio up to 24-bit/96kHz in lossy hi-res format. The headphones also come with a USB-C audio cable, allowing for lossless audio transmission from compatible devices such as PCs, laptops, and smartphones.
Unlike other high-end headphones with USB-C audio, which usually require power to work with analog signals, the IO-12 features a dedicated analog cable. Dali ensures that the sound signature remains unaffected even when the headphones are used in a non-powered state.
Crafted with real leather for the headband and ear cushions, the IO-12 provides a luxurious touch. The internal battery boasts an impressive 35 hours of playback on a single charge. Additionally, active noise cancellation (ANC) is included, along with the capability to make voice calls and access voice assistants. Notably, Dali has not mentioned any transparency or sidetone modes, and there is no accompanying app support for the IO-12. All features, including the two built-in EQ modes (Hi-Fi and Bass), can be accessed via the headphone’s controls.
Overall, the Dali IO-12 wireless headphones represent a significant step forward in audio technology, offering exceptional sound quality and innovative features for audiophiles who value clarity and precision.
