Best Budget Audiophile Headphones Under $100

When looking for a pair of audiophile headphones, you are easily looking at spending hundreds of dollars. Can you find one for under $100? We think so.

Philips Fidelio L2 is an option that you should consider if you want audiophile quality but don’t have a big budget. Released 5 years ago, you can now purchase them for about $100 and sometimes less. Get them before they are sold out.

While this headphone doesn’t have wireless option and noise cancellation, these are not features you really want when looking for the best possible audio sound. Wired connections will still give the best sound quality.

Features

High fidelity, premium quality. Wherever you go.
Fidelio L2 headphones with mic combine the highest standards in sound and comfort for an authentic listening experience.

High Resolution audio reproduces music in its purest form
High Resolution Audio offers the best in audio performance, reproducing original studio master recordings more faithfully than 16bit/44.1kHz CD formats. This uncompromising quality makes High Resolution Audio the best sound companion for the music lover. Fidelio headphones meet the stringent standards required for the Hi-Res Audio stamp of quality.

Handpicked 40mm high definition driver
The neodymium drivers respond to all your music’s dynamics. The design includes a vent in the centre which emphasises the middle and low frequencies, producing the acoustic energy that brings extended yet controlled bass and a transparent mid-range. Each driver are handpicked and paired for the best stereo experience.

Engineered aluminum earshells for acoustic precision
Aluminum earshells selected for their strength reduce unwanted vibration and resonance. They are mounted on a layer of engineering plastics to make the headphones even more stable. As a result they dampen vibration as effectively as possible for accurate, incisive sound.

Semi-open back design
The semi-open back design combines the balanced, transparent sound of an open back with the deep bass and noise isolation expected from a fully closed back. It includes finely woven, acoustically resistant fabric built into the acoustic grilles for controlled noise isolation, minimal leakage and reduced ambient noise.

Audio cable with mic
The included audio cable has an inline mic, allowing for hands-free calling on a phone. 6.3mm adapter and carrying pouch are also included.

Excellent noise isolation
Excellent noise isolation yet retaining spatial music experience.

Memory foam cushioning & premium design
Each material used for the Fidelio L2 has been carefully selected for longer listening comfort. Deluxe memory foam ear-pads provide an ergonomic fit. Not only does the foam form itself perfectly to the shape of your ear, but it also forms a seal that preserves the best bass response and reduces unwanted outside sounds.

CNET YouTube review

head-fi.org user reviews