Hoping to disrupt the disappointing cycle is British brand BLOC & ROC, who launched late last year with their two flagship models – the Galvanize S1 and S2. Made entirely in the UK using aircraft-grade aluminium, the Galvanize headphones are the result of over two years’ research and development. Packing bespoke 40mm dynamic drivers, they deliver clear and resonant audio (with particular attention to those low frequencies), while little touches like a fibre-wrapped cable, memory foam earcups and soft protein leather finishing result in something that both looks and feels noticeably more luxurious than the many plastic options out there.
Most surprisingly, at $190 a pair, they’re well within the budget of most semi-serious customers. That said, if you really want to push the premium boat out they also make a 24-karat gold-plated version for added bling factor.