Dyson OnTrac: Customizable Audiophile Headphones

Dyson, the company known for innovative home appliances, has ventured into the world of high-end headphones with the release of the OnTrac. Unlike their previous foray, the air-purifying Dyson Zone, the OnTrac focuses solely on audio, offering premium sound quality and active noise cancellation (ANC) technology.

Customizability at the Forefront

The most striking feature of the OnTrac is its extensive customization options. With over 2,000 possible combinations of outer cap colors and ear cushion finishes, users can personalize their headphones to reflect their unique style. The caps themselves are machined from high-grade aluminum and come in a variety of ceramic or anodized finishes. Ear cushions are crafted from a combination of ultra-soft microfiber material and high-grade foam, prioritizing both comfort and an optimal acoustic seal. Replacement caps and cushions will be available for purchase separately, allowing users to change their look on a whim.

Technical Specs and Features

Dyson equips the OnTrac with 40mm Neodymium drivers, promising a wide frequency response (6Hz โ€“ 21kHz) for accurate audio reproduction. The ANC system utilizes eight microphones, constantly sampling ambient noise 384,000 times per second to effectively block out up to 40dB of unwanted background sounds. Users can toggle ANC on and off with a convenient double-tap gesture on either ear cup.

For added control and personalization, the OnTrac connects to the MyDyson app. The app unlocks features like real-time sound tracking that monitors both in-ear and external volume levels. It also allows users to choose between three custom EQ presets: Bass Boost, Neutral, and Enhanced, tailoring the listening experience to their preferences.

Battery life is another strong point. The OnTrac boasts a playtime of up to 55 hours with ANC enabled, thanks to its dual lithium-ion batteries, each rated at 2,540mAh. A full charge takes a couple of hours, but with such impressive battery life, charging won’t be a frequent concern.

Dyson Design and Availability

Dyson incorporates its signature design aesthetic into the OnTrac. While it remains to be seen if the design resonates with everyone, the headphones undoubtedly offer a premium look and feel. The OnTrac launches with four base color options: CNC Aluminum, CNC Copper, Ceramic Cinnabar (a ceramic-feel painted finish), and CNC Black Nickel.

The Dyson OnTrac will be available for purchase directly from Dyson’s website starting August 1st, priced at $499.99. Replacement caps and cushions will also be sold separately on the Dyson website, with some styles potentially finding their way to third-party retailers.

Dyson Enters the Audiophile Arena

The OnTrac marks a significant step for Dyson as they enter the competitive high-end headphone market. With a focus on sound quality, ANC, and extensive customization options, the OnTrac has the potential to appeal to audiophiles who value both style and performance. The hefty price tag might be a deterrent for some, but for those seeking a premium, personalized audio experience, the Dyson OnTrac could be a compelling option.