A circumaural model, the Loewe Leo headphones feature new-generation adaptive active noise reduction. This continuously analyzes the sound environment to automatically adjust its intensity. There is therefore no need for manual adjustment. Similarly, the Loewe Leo headphones automatically detect if a person is speaking directly to the wearer, with the noise reduction then automatically switching to Transparency mode to hear their voice, and returning to noise cancellation mode once the exchange is over.
Loewe Leo, main specifications££££
In terms of the acoustic package, the Lewe Leo headphones are equipped with 50 mm transducers without further details on the material used. Dolby Atmos compatibility is standard, and the amplification is based on Texas Instrument OPA1622 operational amplifiers with bipolar input: each channel is powered by two opposing signals (positive and negative) for significantly improved sound quality. This reduces noise, increases dynamics, and the same goes for channel crosstalk (better channel separation). Ultimately, the sound power is improved, as is the quality of audio reproduction. Also noteworthy, the Loewe Leo is compatible with Bluetooth 5.3 LC3 (LC3+ is coming via a Firmware update), Auracast and Hi-Res Audio. Other information, the IP53 certification is required for increased resistance to dust and water splashes, but the Loewe Leo does not offer a passive mode: it is impossible to use it wired if the battery is discharged.
Loewe Leo, durability, ergonomics and autonomy££££
Namely, many elements of the Loewe Leo are replaceable, starting with the battery (at a retailer). The internal headband or the ear cushions (in genuine leather) can also be changed, in case of wear or to vary the colors (three colors are planned, black, beige and, later, bronze). To return to the battery, its autonomy is announced for 65 hours and the total recharge requires 2 hours. Clarification, the Loewe Leo structured from aluminum weighs 360 g on the scale.
While the Loewe Leo is controlled via the app of the same name, physical controls are present on the headphones, mainly via two notched dials on the earcups: management of active noise reduction, volume, navigation within music tracks, almost everything is possible. A triple-click button is also available on each earcup. This multiplies the possible controls directly on the headphones.
Namely, the Loewe Leo app supports voice control and has the Mimi Hearing Test function for personalized audio reproduction adjustment. As such, an equalizer is present.
Loewe Leo, AI functions££££
Like Apple's AirPods 3 Pro, the Loewe Leo headphones include AI functions including instant translation. The microphones (5 in total) capture the speaker's language to translate it in real time and broadcast it in the headset. Even better, the Loewe Leo application also includes a personal assistant (based on OpenAI) to take notes for example, again managed by voice. Free for the first year, a subscription billed €7.99/month is then required to continue using it.
Immediate availability. Comes with two carrying cases (soft or hard) and two cables: mini-Jack 3.5 mm to USB-C and USB-C/USB-C. Recommended price: 1,300 euros.
Reminder of the key features of the Loewe Leo:
• Type: circumaural headphones
• Speakers: dynamic, 50 mm diameter
• Frequency response: 20 Hz-20 kHz
• Connectivity: [abc]Bluetooth[/abc] 5.3 LC3+
• Supported Bluetooth profiles: A2DP, AVRCP, HFP
• Codecs: SBC, AAC, LC3, LC3+
• Certification: [abc]Hi-Res Audio[/abc], IP53
• Function: Transparency
• Spatial Audio compatibility: yes
• Active noise reduction: yes (adaptive)
• Battery life: 65 h (active noise reduction deactivated)
• Charging time: 2 h via port [abc]USB[/abc]-C
• Others: Instant translation function, Personal Assistant function (Open AI)
• Weight: 360 g
