Macworld - USA (2020-03)

MARCH 2020 MACWORLD 113

don’t have the capability of
streaming at higher bit rates to
better match your source.
Nevertheless, you’d be hard
pressed to notice at times.
Overall, the Phiaton BT120
delivered a well-balanced, punchy
sound. The Phiatons err on the
side of warm and euphonic. I found
the midrange to be clean with
high-end frequencies slightly rolled
off—brass instruments and cymbals
wont show off their top-end shine.
The Phiatons have an exciting bass
response. It’s more audiophile than “Xtra
Bass.” It’s natural, not artificial, and I like that.
The Phiaton’s are rated to resolve
frequencies down to 20Hz but temper that
expectation. They won’t
reproduce subterranean bass
with any authority. I tested tracks
like Aaron Copeland’s “Fanfare
for the Common Man” by the
Minnesota Orchestra Conducted
by Eiji Oue. Those intoxicating
bass drums fell short of their full,
crisp, dynamic potential, erring
into some smearing. I noted the
same on Holly Cole’s audiophile
favorite, “Train Song.” There’s a
slight midbass boost that adds to
the euphonic character and gives
you the sensation that the
headphones are capable of

delivering deep, punchy bass. I noted this

on tracks like Imagine Dragons’ “Natural.”

All in all, the Phiaton Curve BT120 NC

sound much more expensive than their

price point suggests.

BOTTOM LINE

Phiaton’s Curve BT120 NC

headphones are a tremendous

value for the frequent traveller or

city dweller who wants a wireless

pair of in-ear headphones with

active noise cancelling. With a

flexible neckband, multipoint

Bluetooth connections, IPX4

rating, and fast charging, you’ll be

hard-pressed to find a better value

at this price point. The fact that

these headphones also sound

good to boot is just icing on the

cake. Highly recommended. ■

mmmm

Phiaton Curve

BT120 NC

PROS

• Affordably priced.


• Good sound.


• Attractive industrial design.
  CONS


• Buttons on inline remote
  are difficult to use.


• The earphones just dangle
  when they’re not in your
  ears.


• Not very effective at
  reducing rumble and
  engine noise.
  PRICE
  $79
  COMPANY
  Phiaton

The curved neckband’s flexible design springs back to

its original shape even if tucked into a pocket or bag.