Yamaha has a stellar reputation for many of its audio products, especially those in the home hi-fi category. When it comes to wireless headphones, the company seems to struggle. While generally well-received for their sound quality, there’s often a gotcha or two that keep them from being top picks. These are areas where similarly priced competitors are notably further ahead, like active noise cancellation or where Yamaha’s design gets in the way (like long-term comfort). For a good example of what I’m talking about, check out WIRED’s review of Yamaha’s premium YH-E700B wireless headphones, which earned only 6/10.
Yamaha’s newest wireless cans, the YH-L500A are at the other end of the feature spectrum. The design is basic, and they eschew things like active noise cancellation (ANC), transparency mode, wear sensors, extended battery life, and a travel-friendly double-folding hinge. You won’t even get a travel case or protective pouch, yet Yamaha still asks $229.95—which doesn’t exactly scream budget or entry-level.
Photograph: Simon Cohen
To be fair, the L500A aren’t entirely bare-bones. At 9.3 ounces, they’re among the lightest over-ear wireless headphones, and they achieve this weight despite having large and very generously padded ear cups. They support Google Fast Pair, Bluetooth Multipoint, and Qualcomm’s high-quality aptX Adaptive Bluetooth codec, which are all desirable (but also quite common, even on less-expensive models).
Where the L500A seek to distinguish themselves is with Yamaha’s inclusion of two Sound Field modes: Cinema and Music, which get their own dedicated button. As the names suggest, they’re designed to re-create the real-world immersive experience of going to a movie theater or hearing a live band. In my experience, these kinds of effects can be hit or miss. But given that Yamaha is a pioneer in the field of digital signal processing, our expectations should be reasonably high. As long as you're listening in a reasonably quiet environment, these are some of the most comfortable headphones you can buy. Otherwise, you might want to look elsewhere.
So Comfortable
Photograph: Simon Cohen
With a completely matte-black finish—the only color option—exposed wires, and squarish ear cups held in place by standard two-pronged yokes, the YH-L500A look like workhorse studio monitors. Though light, they’re solidly built. The headband sliders, pivots, and hinges operate smoothly, with no extra play or looseness. The plastic even has the same soft surface as Sony’s WH-1000XM5, giving them a touch of luxe.