Review: Beyerdynamic Aventho 100

It was not until 2022 that Beyerdynamic ventured into the wireless audio market with the Free Byrd. Considering that the company’s inaugural headphone, the DT48, was released in 1937, Beyerdynamic has demonstrated a deliberate, measured approach to product development. The DT48 became the world’s first dynamic headphone and was recognized as a pioneering innovation that revolutionized audio technology. Since 2022, the company has introduced an increasingly diverse range of headphones at a notably swift pace. The results, however, have been varied; some models, such as the Amiron 300, have been significant successes, while the Amiron 100 received a less favorable overall impression.

As Beyerdynamic consistently upholds a high standard, our interest in its wireless offerings has grown. In today’s review, we will closely examine the Beyerdynamic Aventho 100. This model serves as the entry point in the Aventho series and features a classic, elegant design. These headphones are of the on-ear type (distinct from over-ear models) and can be compactly folded for convenient storage in the included carrying pouch. The inclusion of a carrying pouch with the Aventho 100, thoughtfully designed with a sewn-in compartment for the accompanying cables, is a commendable detail, as this amenity has become less prevalent.

Our standard testing procedure commenced by allowing the headphones to undergo a burn-in period of approximately 24 hours and updating their drivers. The Aventho 100, while presenting certain limitations, simultaneously possesses distinct strengths. Notably, they adeptly integrate a classic design aesthetic with contemporary technology.

First Impression – Beyerdynamic Aventho 100

The initial tactile experience with the Aventho 100 is notably positive. Weighing 220 grams, they feel perfectly balanced, and their material choices impart a premium sensation. The combination of synthetic leather with aluminum accents and classically exposed cables presents a highly cohesive and elegant design. As previously mentioned, a carrying pouch is included, featuring a small sewn-in compartment that accommodates a 3.5 mm cable for wired listening and a charging cable (USB-A to C). While the provided charging cable utilizes a somewhat dated connector type, it is easily replaceable, and the included 3.5mm cable ensures wired audio functionality. In essence, Beyerdynamic has ensured comprehensive connectivity options, with Bluetooth, of course, being a primary method.

The battery capacity is commendable, offering 60 hours of playback, which reduces to approximately 40 hours when noise cancellation is enabled. Nevertheless, 40 hours represents a substantial duration, and should the charge deplete, a rapid 15-minute charge provides an additional 5 hours of listening time.

Supported codecs include AAC, SBC, aptX™ Lossless, and aptX™ Adaptive; however, LDAC is not present. Despite their relatively compact size, audio is delivered via robust 45 mm dynamic diaphragms. Thus, in summary, the Beyerdynamic Aventho 100 theoretically appears well-equipped to deliver exceptional audio performance. The pertinent question then becomes: what is the sound quality?

The Sound Experience

The initial out-of-box sound profile is not particularly compelling; the audio presents as muffled and somewhat flat. The preset EQ variants are, as is often the case with many headphones, similarly underwhelming. For instance, attempting to enhance bass by simply boosting the lowest registers is often ineffective, frequently leading to an over-emphasized, boomy quality rather than improved low-end definition. However, thanks to the ample driver capacity, meticulous tailoring of personal EQ settings can yield a robust and enjoyable sound signature. While a subtle boxiness persists compared to, for example, the Amiron 300, the adjusted sound is sufficiently versatile to accommodate a wide array of musical genres. To some extent, fit and comfort can also influence the soundstage, an aspect we will further explore in the comfort section.

Even without active noise cancellation, the Aventho 100 provides effective passive isolation in most environments. With noise cancellation activated, the headphones achieve substantial attenuation of ambient noise, and minimal sound leakage is observed. While not as pronounced as over-ear headphones, which also isolate the area behind the ear and effectively suppress low-frequency ambient sounds, it is sufficiently effective to largely negate the sound of a washing machine operating in the same room (with music playing).

The final aspect of the sound experience pertains to the built-in microphones, enabling the Aventho 100 to function as a headset. Call recipients report clear audio transmission, and our team at senses.se regularly conducts internal calls to thoroughly evaluate the efficacy of the microphones’ ambient noise filtering capabilities.

Comfort

Initially in this section, it is important to acknowledge that comfort is generally subjective, though certain physical limitations can influence it. The Beyerdynamic Aventho 100 offers exceptional comfort. The ear cushions are notably soft, and the headband padding similarly provides a gentle and pleasant feel. However, the Aventho 100 is compact, potentially making its comfort profile not universally suitable. Individuals with a larger head circumference can use them, but will need to extend them to their maximum position, which exerts significant pressure on the ears and leads to considerable discomfort after extended wear. Furthermore, this also partially affects the soundstage, as the acoustic performance is compromised if they are pressed too tightly against the ears. Their design is simply not optimized for such an extreme fit.

Conversely, for individuals with a slightly smaller head, these headphones offer exceptional comfort. This naturally prompts the question: what constitutes ‘slightly smaller’? Even if circumference measurements were provided, numerous factors such as hair thickness play a role, reinforcing that comfort remains inherently subjective. Therefore, we strongly recommend a personal fitting prior to purchase, as this aspect presented a significant challenge for some of our test candidates.

Value Proposition

Before presenting our concluding remarks, we will evaluate whether the Beyerdynamic Aventho 100 offers good value for money. What distinguishes these headphones is their array of strengths, which are fully realized only if they provide an optimal fit for the user’s head. Consequently, a portion of the potential user base may find them unsuitable, as an ill-fitting design leads to significant discomfort. However, for those with a suitable fit, several advantages emerge. The on-ear concept itself represents a distinct and valuable category.

Over the years, various over-ear headphones have excelled in specific areas. Examples include the Sony WH-1000XM4, Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2, or Anker Soundcore Space Q45. All of these models occupy different price categories and offer distinct qualities such as outstanding soundstage, powerful battery capability, or extreme noise cancellation. However, the common factor—their complete enclosure of the ears—is not universally preferred, and some users may experience discomfort with this design. This is precisely where the Aventho 100’s on-ear design presents a significant advantage. The on-ear approach offers an alternative solution; factors such as hair displacement after using over-ear headphones, though potentially dismissed as a matter of superficiality, can genuinely influence the practicality of wearing headphones in professional or social settings.

The Beyerdynamic Aventho 100 is priced at approximately 2,300 SEK, which feels somewhat elevated considering its out-of-box sound profile. However, the Aventho 100 is not designed to emulate headphones like the Sennheiser HD 490 Pro, which excel in soundstage but come with distinct limitations. Instead, it offers a comprehensive package encompassing multiple functionalities: extended battery life, portability, noise cancellation, headset functionality, a good soundstage (after EQ adjustments), and exceptional comfort. Additionally, their aesthetic appeal is notable. While the price tag may feel marginally elevated, it delivers substantial value coupled with impressive build quality.

The Bottom Line – Beyerdynamic Aventho 100

If the Beyerdynamic Aventho 100 provides an optimal fit for your head (a crucial prerequisite), then they represent a highly commendable option for those who prefer to avoid over-ear designs or find in-ear headphones unsuitable. They perform competently across their feature set and include all essential functionalities. While the soundstage may not be the most expansive, EQ adjustments can significantly enhance the audio experience. Ultimately, the Aventho 100 stands as a convenient, competent, and comprehensive pair of headphones, though not universally accommodating.

Beyerdynamic sent review samples for this test. Senders of material have no editorial influence on our tests; we always write independently with our readers and consumers in focus.