Master & Dynamic MW75 Neuro Headphones Review

Unique Wireless Headphones with Brainwave Monitoring

The realm of wireless audio equipment is constantly evolving, but it’s not often that we come across something truly exceptional. The MW75 Neuro, a collaborative effort between Master & Dynamic and Neurable, stands out as a unique pair of headphones. These high-end, audiophile-grade wireless headphones come equipped with an integrated brainwave monitor – yes, you read that correctly. With artificial intelligence technology and twelve Dry Fabric EEG sensors, these headphones track your focus levels during work and gaming, preemptively suggesting breaks to help you maintain peak focus and productivity without burning out. While they come at a hefty price tag and require frequent use to maximize their benefits, the MW75 Neuro offers exceptional sound quality and provides a glimpse into the future of wearable technology.

The MW75 Neuro is a premium wireless headphone set priced at $700, making it $100 more expensive than the original model. However, considering the advanced technology embedded within them, the modest price increase is quite surprising. It’s important to note that these headphones cater to a niche market segment. Prospective buyers should be willing to invest $700 in a pair of headphones and pay extra for features aimed at enhancing productivity and focus. To fully leverage these features, users must be prepared to wear the headphones consistently throughout the day or be attracted to the brain monitoring functionality enough to justify the additional cost.

If you find yourself contemplating the purchase of such expensive headphones, the MW75 Neuro should definitely be on your radar. Offering superior sound quality, effective ANC, and a comfortable fit that prevents head fatigue and sweaty ears, these headphones deliver a premium audio experience. It’s worth mentioning that, currently, the Neurable app required for focus tracking is only compatible with iPhones, so Android users may want to hold off on purchasing.

Design and Features of the MW75 Neuro

The MW75 Neuro closely resembles its predecessor, the MW75, in terms of design, which works in its favor, given the exceptional build quality of the original model. Crafted with CNC-milled aluminum for the earcups and yokes, these headphones exude durability and luxury. The anodized coloring adds to their longevity, while the headband features genuine lambskin detailing, providing a touch of sophistication and comfort.

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The earcups of the MW75 Neuro boast an elegant design, featuring oval-shaped structures with faceplates made of tempered glass. While the glass faceplates may attract fingerprints, they contribute to a sleek and modern aesthetic. The right faceplate is touch-sensitive, allowing users to interact with the Neurable app directly. The headphone controls, including volume, track selection, power, and ANC, are strategically placed and easy to use.

Available in navy, silver, black, and olive color options, the MW75 Neuro introduces new variations in navy and olive hues, distinguishing themselves from the original MW75 in black and silver finishes.

Advanced Technology and Performance

Equipped with the same high-quality drivers as the MW75, the MW75 Neuro ensures consistency in sound performance. The 40mm drivers coated with beryllium enhance speed and responsiveness, resulting in improved clarity and extension in the high and low frequency ranges. Additionally, the headphones come with four beamforming microphones for active noise cancellation, transparency mode, and voice isolation during calls. They also offer multipoint connectivity and can function as a DAC/amp when connected via USB Type-C.

Image: MW75 Neuro Earcup

While the MW75 Neuro provides an impressive sound experience and innovative features, it’s important to highlight that the built-in EEG monitoring significantly impacts battery life. With a battery life of up to 32 hours without ANC and 28 hours with ANC, continuous brainwave tracking can reduce usage time to around ten hours or less, necessitating nightly charging for optimal performance.

The MW75 Neuro’s Brainwave Tracking Capability

Although sound quality takes precedence when considering the MW75 headphones, the Neuro model’s unique feature lies in its real-time brainwave monitoring capabilities. Neurable has devised a system that leverages EEG sensors to capture data around the ear area, identifying focus and attention patterns. Through AI-powered algorithms, the headphones amplify these signals and transmit actionable insights via the companion app.

Dr. Ramses Alcaide, the founder and CEO of Neurable, and a research-focused neuroscientist, elucidated the significance of brainwave tracking during a briefing session. He explained that the brain lacks pain receptors, meaning that by the time individuals realize they need a break, their brain has already undergone considerable strain. By monitoring brainwaves, the headphones and app can accurately gauge focus levels and recommend breaks proactively, fostering sustained productivity and preventing exhaustion.

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The app gamifies focus and productivity tracking, incentivizing users with points for engaging in regular focus sessions and maintaining high attention levels. It also delivers motivational messages and insights into productivity patterns, helping users optimize their work efficiency.

By fostering self-awareness and offering valuable insights, the MW75 Neuro enriches the user experience and encourages individuals to understand their behavior and preferences better. While not geared towards gaming, these headphones excel in providing exceptional sound quality and unparalleled features, setting them apart in the wireless headphone market.