Panasonic made quite a splash in the middle of the year with its release of three new headphones in the M series, each featuring special bass reactors designed to deliver impressive sound performance and powerful bass. One of the standout models in this series is the Panasonic RB-M700B overair headphones, the flagship offering. Priced at around 175 euros, these Bluetooth headphones come equipped with active noise cancellation (ANC) and promise much more than just booming bass. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the construction, features, and sound quality of the RB-M700B.
PROFILE PANASONIC RB-M700B
Weight 317 g (without cable)
Price €175.45
CONSTRUCTION/EQUIPMENT
Converter principle 1x “Free Edge” driver with neodymium magnet (40 mm) Closed
Design, over-ear
Frequency response 20 Hz – 20 kHz
Connection cable Audio cable (removable, routed on one side, 120 cm)
Plug 3.5 mm mini jack plug (gold-plated, angled)
Adapter USB charging cable (Type C, 50 cm)
Impedance 27 Ohm
Bluetooth V 5.0 – supported profiles: A2DP / AVRCP / HSP / HFP
Range up to 10 meters
Audio Codec SBC / AAC
Battery life up to 20 hours (bass reactor off, NC on, SBC)
battery charging time approx. 4 hours (quick charge function: 15 minutes charging = 90 minutes music playback)
Special features removable cable (run on one side); swivel mechanism, integrated microphone, Active Noise Canceling, Quick charge function; compatibility with common voice assistants; extra bass system “XBS DEEP” for noticeable bass
ACCESSORIES
detachable audio cable; USB charging cable; Operation manual; Warranty card
Construction and Accessories
The Panasonic RB-M700B boasts a closed, circumaural design, offering both wireless and wired connectivity options. The package includes a USB-C charging cable and a 3.5mm audio cable, showcasing Panasonic’s commitment to quality.
Upon closer inspection, it’s evident that these headphones are built with precision and durability in mind. The stainless steel headband features eleven locking positions for a customized fit, while plush padding on the headband and ear cups ensures comfort during extended listening sessions. The controls, indicator lights, and connections on the ear cups are well-placed and of high quality.
The RB-M700B also incorporates a folding mechanism for easier transport, but it doesn’t offer a full fold-flat design, which some competing models provide. A carrying case would have been a valuable addition for on-the-go convenience.
Bluetooth, Battery, and Functionality
Under the hood, the RB-M700B features a “Free Edge” driver with a 40mm neodymium magnet and a standout feature known as the “XBS DEEP,” which stands for Extra Bass System. This bass-boosting system utilizes special bass reactors to vibrate the headphone housing in sync with the music’s low-frequency content, resulting in a powerful bass response. Users can adjust the bass intensity across five levels, providing flexibility to suit personal preferences.
To maintain precise sound reproduction across all frequency ranges, even with the added bass boost, precise airflow control within the housing is crucial. The headphones feature air outlet openings strategically positioned to ensure precise and powerful bass delivery.
In terms of connectivity, the RB-M700B supports Bluetooth 5.0 and various audio codecs, including AAC and SBC. It is compatible with several wireless profiles, allowing for a wireless range of up to ten meters. Additionally, the headphones are equipped with a 300mA lithium polymer battery that provides up to 20 hours of wireless music playback with ANC enabled and the bass reactor set to a standard level.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is a notable feature of the RB-M700B, distinguishing it from its smaller siblings in the M series. The headphones also support voice assistants and can be controlled through the Panasonic Audio Connect app. An integrated microphone allows for use as a wireless headset, making them versatile for various situations.
Practical Usage and Comfort
Comfort is a highlight of the RB-M700B. They provide a high level of comfort even during extended listening sessions, with no noticeable excessive contact pressure or discomfort. The user-friendly controls include well-placed buttons for power, music playback, bass adjustment, and ANC. Call quality during phone calls is clear and stable.
The ANC performance is impressive, effectively reducing external noise for an immersive listening experience. With the extra bass enabled and the corresponding music playing, users may find it hard to resist the urge to dance along with the music.
In real-world testing, the RB-M700B lived up to its claimed wireless playback time and Bluetooth range. Charging the headphones from empty took approximately four hours, and a convenient quick-charge feature allowed for about 90 minutes of wireless music playback after just 15 minutes of charging.
Sound Quality
After a sufficient burn-in period, the RB-M700B was put to the test across various genres using different playback devices, including smartphones and digital audio players. The headphones delivered remarkable sound across the board.
In electronic tracks with powerful bass like “All around Us” by Neelix, the RB-M700B’s bass, especially at the highest level, was impactful. Even with the bass cranked up, the headphones managed to maintain decent clarity and detail. However, for those seeking a balanced sound, the headphones still offered a solid bass foundation without going overboard.
Genres like R&B and pop, exemplified by songs such as Jennifer Lopez’s “Ain’t Your Mama” and Dua Lipa’s “Don’t Start Now,” benefited from the RB-M700B’s bass prowess. The headphones also excelled in reproducing midrange details, as demonstrated with John Coltrane’s “A Love Supreme, Pt. I – Acknowledgment.”
Even in jazz tracks featuring double bass, like “The Kicker” by Jeff Goldblum & the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra, the RB-M700B provided a satisfying boost in the bass without sacrificing midrange clarity. The headphones comfortably handled the highest pitches, as evident in “(Scott Bradlee’s) Postmodern Jukebox” covers.
Beyond bass performance, the RB-M700B showcased its abilities in spatial imaging, dynamics, and impulse response. It effortlessly handled rapid, successive impulses and faithfully reproduced dynamic shifts. The headphones excelled in conveying the acoustics of various environments, from live concert recordings to studio recordings.
Overall, the RB-M700B delivered a harmonious, balanced, and authentic sound signature, especially without extra bass activation. It struck a fine balance between impact and precision, offering an enjoyable listening experience across a wide range of music genres.
Conclusion
The Panasonic RB-M700B stands out as a flexible over-ear headphone with an extra bass system that offers both comfort and quality audio for under 180 euros. While a folding mechanism and a carrying case would have been convenient for portability, the efficient active noise cancellation makes these headphones suitable for mobile music enjoyment. With a stylish design, impressive sound quality, and versatile features, the RB-M700B is a compelling choice for music enthusiasts seeking a well-rounded listening experience.
Positives:
- Impressive Bass Performance: The Panasonic RB-M700B delivers powerful and impactful bass, thanks to its Extra Bass System and customizable bass levels. It excels in reproducing bass-heavy music genres.
- Comfortable Design: These headphones are designed for extended wear with a comfortable headband and plush ear cup padding, making them suitable for long listening sessions.
- Effective Active Noise Cancellation: The RB-M700B’s active noise cancellation effectively reduces external noise, allowing for an immersive listening experience in noisy environments.
- Long Wireless Playback: With up to 20 hours of wireless playback time and quick-charging capabilities, these headphones are ideal for on-the-go music enthusiasts.
- Wide Genre Compatibility: These headphones offer a balanced and authentic sound signature that performs well across various music genres, from electronic to jazz.
Negatives:
- Lack of Folding Mechanism: Unlike some competitors, the RB-M700B lacks a full fold-flat design, which could have enhanced portability and convenience during travel.
- No Carrying Case: The headphones do not come with a carrying case, which would have provided added protection and easier transport.
- Limited Color Options: While available in anthracite and white, the RB-M700B offers limited color choices compared to some other headphone models on the market.
- Extra Bass at Higher Levels: When the extra bass is set to its highest levels, some distortion or blurring of sound details may occur, which could be a drawback for audiophiles seeking clarity.
- Price Point: While competitively priced for its features, the RB-M700B may still be considered relatively expensive by budget-conscious consumers, especially when compared to budget headphone alternatives.
