Welcome to the 2025 Rolling Stone Audio Awards, our annual list of the coolest new audio gear that crossed our desks over the past year, including the top new headphones and earbuds, Bluetooth speakers, soundbars, and beyond.
From earbud breakthroughs that prioritize the health of your hearing to over-ear headphone debuts that could make any audiophile do a double take, the past year’s releases saw brands turning up the dial with innovative tech and impressive features alike.
More from Rolling Stone
For the first time in our franchise’s history, we take a deeper dive into the audio world to include a handful of new categories that play a big role in our lives, including hearing-protection technology, the world’s best new musical instruments, recording equipment and podcasting accessories, innovative music venues, and even automotive audio.
The 2025 Rolling Stone Audio Awards
After months of testing the newest releases, these are the award winners that stopped us in our tracks this year.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST AUDIOPHILE HEADPHONES
Noble FoKus Apollo
$649
For Noble Audio’s first time making a full-size pair of headphones, we don’t think it’s an overstatement to call them a huge success. Sonically, Noble FoKus Apollo are an audiophile’s dream, ample on the lower end without the usual bass-head issues (a balanced sound signature helps them excel in genres like hip-hop and electronic).
They’re the first headphones to combine two different types of audio tech under the same hood — both dynamic and planar magnetic drivers (a bit pricey but worth it), which makes them nothing short of fantastic-sounding. With an impressively dramatic sound stage (and massive 80-hour battery life), you’ll feel like a band member surrounded by an entire orchestra. — Sage Anderson
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST HEADPHONES
Bowers & Wilkins Px8
$559
Bowers & Wilkins released its Dark Forest Px8s in 2024 — and the brand’s flagship Bluetooth over-ear headphones continue to remain untouchable. Our go-to cans of the year, they’re a pair we turned to over and over again to do everything from make calls to listen to music for hours on end.
With Bowers & Wilkins’ smartphone app, it’s easy to choose your level of noise cancellation and tone settings, including their wear sensor that pauses tunes when you remove them. The premium Px8s deliver dazzling, powerful audio quality through two 40mm dynamic carbon drivers and 24-bit DSP, a 30-hour battery life, and a luxurious, functional design that makes them an investment piece built for years of listening. — John Lonsdale
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST WIRED HEADPHONES
Røde NTH-100M
$189
Unless you spend hours deep in a recording studio or conduct broadcast interviews on the street, you may have never heard of Røde. But their new NTH-100Ms deserve to be listened to — they’re the total package, balancing the needs of professionals and casual listeners alike.
These are clearly built for creative endurance (we had no problem listening for hours thanks to some ultra-plush ear cups), taking the best parts of Røde’s previous headphone debut (custom-matched drivers that can handle any genre you throw at them, a level of acoustic detail that rivals pricey studio equipment) and improving upon them with an easily detachable, broadcast-grade microphone.
Needless to say, these are bona fide crowd pleasers — podcasters and content creators will rejoice at the crystal-clear voice capture, everyone else will love how remarkably true to life their favorite tracks sound. — S.A.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST HEADPHONES FOR TRAVEL
JBL Live 770NC
$159.95
Traveling is pricey, but your headphones don’t have to be. Case in point: JBL’s new Live 770NC, which not only get the top spot in our books as the best pair of wireless headphones in the storied audio maker’s portfolio, but are a jet-setter’s best friend.
Take it from a frequent flier who has tried everything to drown out crying babies and jet engines — at $159, this pair has noise-cancellation powers that punch far above their price point. A robust companion app also provides creature comforts like listening modes and TalkThru if you need to hear a loudspeaker announcement. Their 55.5-hour-long battery life also ensures you’ll reach your destination with plenty of charge left, and without a noise-induced headache. — S.A.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST WIRELESS HEADPHONES
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
$429
Say hello to Bose’s flagship pair of headphones — and one of our favorite pairs of wireless cans year after year — the QuietComfort Ultras. The headphones have big shoes to fill, replacing the brand’s stellar 700s. But how do they sound? Mind-blowing.
Whether you’re listening to Nas or Dennis Wilson, the headphones check all of the audio boxes thanks to Bose’s Immersive Audio tech. The app makes it easy to customize your EQ settings and choose your level of personalized immersion (Off, Still, and Motion). The cans also come with a mode for every setting, whether you want Aware for commutes, or Immersion for listening to your favorite albums.
With their comfortable, lightweight headband and ear cushions, the Bose QuietComfort Ultras live up to their name and set a new bar for everyday over-ear headphones. — J.L.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST DJ HEADPHONES
OneOdio Studio Max 1 DJ Headphones
$169.99
DJ’ing wirelessly is practically unheard of (nobody wants their headphones to die halfway through a set), but OneOdio’s new Studio Max 1 changes the game in every way. Debuted at CES, the Rapid WiLL+ tech promises ultra-low latency of just 20ms, so any delay/lag from your mixer or source audio while you’re performing will be barely noticeable.
Paired with claims of up to 120 hours of battery life, they’re pretty remarkable — even if you were to listen for 10 hours a day straight, you’d still be able to squeeze in about two weeks of usage. Add in high-res LDAC streaming and Studio Max 1 might just be the secret ingredient for keeping the party going all night long. — S.A.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
INNOVATION AWARD
Breggz Zohn-1
$Price TBD
Personalization is having a big moment for new wireless earbuds — on the luxe end, Dutch singer Xander de Buisonjé’s Breggz Zohn-1 stands above the rest, offering a custom audio experience so unique you won’t be able to find it in any store (or maybe on this planet, period).
But to get to listening, you’ll first have to have your ears scanned through the Breggz mobile app, so the buds can not only be perfectly tailored to fit your ear shape, but also adapt to your specific hearing profile. This nearly guarantees killer sound before the Bluetooth buds even arrive at your doorstep — who can compare? — S.A.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST-DESIGNED HEADPHONES
Dyson OnTrac Headphones
$499.99
When Dyson launched its air purifier “Zone” headphones shortly after the pandemic, the design drew puzzling stares for its oversized ear cups and heavy-duty mouthpiece that had critics comparing it to everything from a muzzle to Batman’s Bane. Fortunately, Dyson has come around — and in grand style — with its newest release.
Dyson’s OnTrac noise-cancelling headphones drew looks for completely different reasons during our tests this year. The sleek aluminum construction and minimalist design deliver seriously luxurious looks, offering premium packaging to go along with Dyson’s premium sound. It’s no wonder the brand landed Stormzy and Raye as ambassadors for the headphones right out of the gate.
While the previous Dyson headphones felt like multiple components being (unsuccessfully) forced together, the OnTrac headphones harmoniously blend design and technology. We were immediately taken by the unique three-cushion design of the headband, for example, and when we then put them on, it made complete sense why the OnTrac has been certified for comfort by US Ergonomics.
The micro-suede ear cushions are pillowy soft and stayed cool even over long periods of wear (while delivering an excellent acoustic seal). And the new 3D “Joystick” control is subtly integrated into the right ear cup to add an easy way to adjust settings — without adding bulk. Everything is sophisticated and streamlined (and shiny!), and wearing the headphones felt like we had just put on a new statement accessory, akin to a fancy bracelet or watch.
We chose a pair of single-tone headphones, but the best proof of Dyson’s design prowess lies in the customizable details that the OnTrac provides. Customers can choose from more than 2,000 different color combinations for both the outer caps and ear cushions to truly create a pair of headphones tuned to your personal style.
While wearing the OnTracs on a plane, our seat mate turned and asked where our “futuristic-looking” headphones were from. And indeed, the OnTrac offers an austere and audiophile vision of the future from a company that has always been forward-looking in development and design. — Tim Chan
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST HEADPHONES UNDER $100
Belkin SoundForm Isolate
$59.99
Belkin has raised our expectations when recommending wireless headphones for under $100, thanks to its new SoundForm Isolate over-ears. Even at $60, Belkin paid particular attention to comfort here, from using pillowy soft ear cups to keeping them light to prevent strain on your temples.
The ANC is decent, but most unique here is a built-in “Isolate” mode, playing relaxing ocean-wave sounds so you can chill out whenever you’re not enjoying your tunes. You won’t find this level of care in most budget headphones, so if you’re in the market for a solid, no-frills pair, this should be your first choice. — S.A.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST BATTERY LIFE
Marshall Monitor III A.N.C.
$349.99
Marshall’s Monitor III A.N.C. dropped near the end of 2024. The brand’s over-ear cans instantly impressed us with their lightweight feel and comfortable cups, along with their well-rounded sound quality, with both full bass and crisp highs alike and M-Control button to adjust EQ and access Siri.
But it’s their battery life that really kept us listening: Marshall built the Monitor III A.N.C.’s to last for up to 70 hours when using active noise-cancellation per charge. If that wasn’t already award-worthy, the brand claims you can get up to 100 hours of battery life without A.N.C. — blowing past the competition and reminding us that Marshall’s one of the best headphone brands in the game. — J.L.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST NOISE-CANCELLING HEADPHONES
Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 Headphones
$399.99
We’ve long been fans of Beyerdynamic’s line of headphones, and the Aventho 300s continue the trend by delivering a remarkable listening experience on every level. Newly released in September, the foldable over-ear headphones boast a 50-hour battery life — a 10-minute charge gives you up to five hours of listening alone. Intuitive touch controls on the outside ear cups make volume adjustments a breeze.
The Aventho 300s are among the best noise-cancelling over-ear headphones we tested this year, boasting spatial audio support and active noise cancellation that you can tweak in Beyerdynamic’s app. In short, every detail comes through loud and clear with the Aventho 300s on your ears — and none of the outside noise. — J.L.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST GAMING HEADPHONES
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro
$349.99
For gamers looking for serious audio, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pros are a real game changer, while the gaming headset features premium sound with crystal-clear and deep sound that’s immersive and rich.
The headset has 360-degree spatial audio and noise-cancellation features for better gaming experiences. It can also connect to a gaming console — like the Sony PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X as well as a PC — at the same time with seamless switching back-and-forth with its included base station.
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro gaming headset even has swappable batteries for extended gaming. When one battery is in use, you can charge the other one — and then just swap them out for longer gameplay. — Rudie Obias
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST WORKOUT HEADPHONES
BlueAnt Pump X Headphones
$119.99
Working out in over-ear headphones can be tricky, but BlueAnt’s Pump X headphones are built with the gym in mind. They come with both cooling gel earpads and cushioned earpads, while A.N.C. keeps outside noise down. Plus, they’re lightweight and boast up to 58 hours of battery life on a charge, for the longest, toughest gym sessions. — Jonathan Zavaleta
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST EARBUDS
Technics EAH-AZ100 Reference Class Hi-Fi True Wireless Earbuds
$299.99
The best earbuds we tested this year were the new Technics AZ100. The Japanese-based audio brand has long been a pioneer in hi-fi sound, having created iconic speaker systems and turntables that date back more than 60 years.
Now, the same audio prowess has been applied to these new button-shaped buds, which are best in class for sound, technology, and design. Much of it is thanks to Technics’ new magnetic fluid driver, which creates better resolution with no fuzziness or “rubbing.” The result: music that sounds punchier and more vibrant with well-balanced dynamics. Noise-cancellation is surprisingly adept, allowing you to truly get lost in the music.
Aside from the audio quality, the AZ100 also provided a comfortable listening experience, thanks to the earbuds’ smaller and lighter size. The new “concha” shape sits more ergonomically in your ear, gripping the grooves to stay put, whether you’re head-bopping to a big beat or taking your tunes on a run.
As much attention is paid to music quality as call quality too, and Technics is the only earbuds brand that lets you connect three devices at once, with seamless switching between them. Using the earbuds on a Zoom chat? The brand’s voice-focused AI filters out distracting noise to let the speaker’s voice come through clean and clear.
It’s rare to find a pair of earbuds that checks all of the boxes, but with the AZ100s, Technics has created an audio marvel that delivers a truly emotive and evocative experience. — T.C.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST GAMING EARBUDS
SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds
$159.99
Ideal for portable gaming with the Valve Steam Deck, Apple iPhone or Android smartphone, and Nintendo Switch, the SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds set the bar with crisp and robust sound that’s full and immersive.
The buds have noise-cancellation built-in, as well as 360-degree audio that makes it feel like you’re completely surrounded by the game you’re playing. In fact, SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds have more than 100 presets for various games, such as Apex Legends, Fortnite, Minecraft, and many others. They even offer up to 10 hours per charge, while they also have up to 40 hours with their included wireless charging case.
Best of all, you can use them as wireless earbuds for your smartphone too. They’re a great all-in-one solution for gaming on the go. — R.O.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST NOISE-CANCELLING EARBUDS
Audio-Technica ATH-CKS50TW2 Wireless Earbuds
$149
Audio-Technica’s newest buds might not roll off the tongue, but the ATH-CKS50TW2s are about as masterfully executed as they come. Besides the stellar sound we’ve come to expect from A-T (those 9mm high-def drivers are no joke), one useful trick here really helps these earbuds stand out from the crowd: a unique magnetic design lets the buds snap together, automatically powering them off and essentially preventing battery drain (especially if you’re prone to toss your earbuds in your pocket without their case).
This provides the buds with their true superpower, a marathon battery life of up to 25 hours, making these without a doubt the Energizer Bunny of personal audio. — S.A.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST PREMIUM EARBUDS
Sennheiser Momentum 4
$299.95
The latest earbuds from Sennheiser stand out in a crowded market thanks to great comfort, top-notch active noise-cancelling, and, crucially, excellent sound. Sennheiser managed to deliver hi-fi quality with the technological refinement that other high-end earbuds sometimes miss.
The streamlined app makes it easy to play with the EQ, though there’s no harm in just leaving the EQ alone — the Momentum 4’s signature sound does justice across a variety of genres. The case may be a little oversized, but the tactile, textured design makes up for it. — J.Z.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST EARBUDS UNDER $100
SoundPeats PearlClip Pro
$59.99
The affordable price point of SoundPeats’ PearlClip Pro earbuds belies standout features and a pretty, thoughtful design. Impressively comfortable, their unobtrusive shape has the added benefit of leaving the ears open for optimal awareness. But the biggest triumph of these buds comes when you utilize the SoundPeats app to its fullest — there’s “Movie Mode,” which imitates a Dolby Surround-sound effect, and a dedicated “Game Mode.”
The Dynamic EQ button, though, is what makes their sound quality tower above the competition. You’ll get punchy, full mid-bass with a solid kick, and nuanced vocals that can be hard for open earbuds to achieve. With just this one mode, the PearlClip Pros deliver hands down the best earbuds under $100. — S.A.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST EARBUDS FOR SLEEP
Ozlo Sleepbuds
$299
Earbuds are always a good option when you want to drown out the noise, but unless you want to exchange one discomfort for another, Ozlo’s Sleepbuds are the buds to beat. They might look like a normal Bluetooth pair, but they’re the most impressively designed “sleeping” buds we’ve ever tried — especially for side sleepers: You can nuzzle these into the ridge of your ear, and they’ll stay there, with a flexible ear wing that’s soft yet secure.
They let you listen to your favorite soothing tracks, and once you’ve drifted off, ingeniously switch modes to cut the sound and help you get some uninterrupted sleep. Believe us when we say these buds definitely hold up to all-night wear, and they’re so comfortable the only thing you’ll notice is all the extra Zzz’s you’re catching. — S.A.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST OPEN EARBUDS
Shokz OpenFit 2 Earbuds
$179.95
Best known for making bone-conduction headphones, Shokz has shrunken all of its innovations down into a sleeker, more compact package with the OpenFit 2s. While open earbuds in general don’t achieve the same clarity as a pair of in-ear buds, particularly on vocals, these do strike all the right notes for us, balancing solid audio performance with environmental awareness.
There’s also the undeniable “cool factor” — by replacing the band with ear hooks, they’ve got a more lightweight, less conspicuous look, and they’ve become the buds we’re reaching for before a long run or bike ride. — S.A.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
INNOVATION AWARD
Powerbeats Pro 2
$249.99
When it comes to workout earbuds, the Powerbeats Pro 2s upped the competition over the past year thanks to their built-in heart-rate-monitoring tech.
The innovative Powerbeats Pro 2s are the ultimate earbuds built for athletes who want to take their fitness to the next level. With the ear hooks on and your playlist cued up, users can track their health stats and blood flow in real-time through a variety of apps, from Peloton to Nike Run Club.
The sweat- and water-resistant earbuds feature an IPX4 rating, making them a durable fit for your toughest workouts. The Powerbeats Pro 2s also prioritize a comfortable fit and come with five ear-tip sizes, from extra small to extra large. — J.L.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST WORKOUT EARBUDS
Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2
$Prices Vary
Workouts can be challenging enough without having to worry about the design of your earbuds. That’s why we love the new Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2s, our favorite dust-proof and waterproof buds for breaking a sweat this year.
The Jabras pack an IP68 rating (the case alone has its own 1P54 rating, just in case it gets wet). But waterproofing aside, quality workout buds have to stay put, and the Jabras don’t disappoint. In our tests, we never had to readjust their fit during high-intensity, sweaty cardio sessions thanks in part to the brand’s ShakeGrip design.
The bottom line: Jabra’s Elite 8 Active Gen 2 buds are, well, elite in every way, delivering immersive sound with built-in 6mm speakers, spatial audio, 56 hours of battery life, and an innovative LE Audio smart case that lets you connect and listen to external devices (like a treadmill) with your buds. — J.L.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST EARBUDS FOR TRAVEL
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
$219
Noise cancellation is name of the game when it comes to travel earbuds, and these Bose QuietComfort Ultras are a champion in that department.
The QC Ultra earbuds’ overall audio quality is also excellent, and at $179, that quality comes with a lower price tag than some comps. In other words, it’s not the absolute end of the world if you forget them at your gate. — Oscar Hartzog
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST RUNNING EARBUDS
JLab Epic Sport ANC 3
$99.99
The best running earbuds look different to other earbuds, but we can’t get enough of JLab’s Epic Sport ANC 3s for hitting the pavement this year.
The reason? Their comfortable ear hooks offer a more ergonomic and stable fit compared to others on the market, while dual drivers and a 52-hour power supply deliver shockingly good hi-res audio performance with each stride.
They’re also, importantly, fully sweat-proof, with an IP66 rating. And surprise: JLab also added a built-in interval timer that you can access through its app. In short, they’re every runner’s dream. — J.L.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST WATERPROOF EARBUDS
H20 Audio TRI 2 Multi-Sport Series
$149.99
H20 Audio’s TRI Audio TRI 2 Multi-Sport Series earbuds are built for the unique challenges of listening to music while you swim. The built-in MP3 player lets you listen to music underwater, overcoming the limitations of a wireless connection. They also have Bluetooth for when you’re on solid land, with a bone-conduction design that’s great for running, cycling, and any day spent on the move. — J.Z.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST BUDGET TRAVEL EARBUDS
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
$99.99
Sometimes you don’t want to take a $300 pair of earbuds on a flight. We get it. Anker’s Soundcore Liberty 4 NCs are a modest $100 at retail (so about the cost of two neck pillows at the airport), but they deliver great noise canceling and excellent battery life, befitting a brand known for making portable chargers. Plus, a 10-minute charge gets you an extra four hours of battery life. The LDAC codec allows for higher quality audio, and Soundcore’s app lets you play with the EQ setting and customize the features. — J.Z.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST DESKTOP SOUNDBAR
BlueAnt Soundblade
$99.99 $199.99 50% off
If you want better sound from your desktop computer but don’t have a lot of room, the BlueAnt Soundblade is the standout pick.
At 23 inches long, the sleek and stylish soundbar is designed to slide under a monitor, while it’s loaded with advanced audio and deep bass — thanks to its 120-watt speaker system with a powerful 80mm neodymium subwoofer. It also supports Bluetooth connectivity, a 3.5mm auxiliary input, and a single USB-C port. — R.O.
The BlueAnt Soundblade is great for listening to music, podcasts, or playing video games with rich and dynamic audio that you can instantly feel.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST AUDIO STREAMER
Fiio S15
$1,049.99
The FiiO S15 is your one-stop for audio streaming that masterfully executes the reproduction of outstanding sound with clarity and depth. It supports a wide range of formats and audio sources, including Apple AirPlay, Bluetooth, NAS, and others, as well as cloud servers and local area networks.
The streamer even converts digital-to-analog audio with noise reduction and full separation for audiophiles to really hone in on all sorts of music. The FiiO S15 features a number of interfaces too, including I2S, AES, traditional coaxial, HDMI, RCA, and more. — R.O.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST PORTABLE BLUETOOTH SPEAKER
Beats Pill
$149.99
The Beats Pill got reintroduced last year, and we’re thrilled to see our old friend again. It’s durable, sounds great, and looks great doing it. Like many of Beats’ products, bass is at the forefront, with an impressive thump-factor for such a compact device.
Battery life is also excellent: Beats claims 24 hours at 50 percent volume level. Overall, it’s a versatile, powerful little speaker for taking on the go or using around the house. — J.L.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST HOME BLUETOOTH SPEAKER
AirPulse AU-4 Speaker
$279.99
With its retro good looks and amp-inspired controls, the AirPulse AU-4 is a stylish, simple option for streaming music at home. It has Bluetooth with aptX HD for high-res audio, or you can connect with a 3.5mm aux or 6.35mm cable. The compact size makes it a great option for small apartments, too. — J.Z.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST SUBWOOFERS
SVS PB17-Ultra Revolution Subwoofer
$2,999.99
It’s one small step for man, but one giant leap for subwoofer design with SVS’ new PB17-Ultra Revolution model. An absolute beast of a 17-inch driver with a specially designed dual 8-inch voice coil delivers room-shaking, body-tingling bass that feels massive, yet stays refined.
With impeccable control over those lower frequencies, it practically demands to be turned up to 11, holding its own and even seeming to open up the more you increase the volume. Bottom line? This subwoofer is a tour de force, and with a dedicated room-calibration feature, you’ll get rocked no matter your acoustics. — S.A.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST OUTDOOR SPEAKER
Sonos Move 2
$449
Sonos’ first Move speaker was one of the most cleverly designed home speakers on the market, and the company just made it better with the Move 2. Like its predecessor, the Move 2 rests on a charging dock but can be easily picked up and carried all over the house — or outside of it, thanks to IP56 water and dust resistance. It’s also plenty loud enough to fill most back yards. — O.H.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST STANDING SPEAKERS
Q Acoustics M40
$799
With so many new speakers to test, it’s rare that we keep using one model for longer than a couple of months. But our tester has been using these Q Acoustics M40 standing speakers for more than a year. They’re that good. The magic of the M40s is in their versatility: Connect via Bluetooth, use it with your TV instead of a soundbar or plug in a DJ controller and expect crisp, loud audio in every case. — O.H.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST KARAOKE MACHINE
Singstation Star Burst
$44
We think playfulness, portability, and ease of use are key when it comes to karaoke machines. This Singstation Star Burst delivers in all of those categories. The compact device can be carried from room to room, or party to party, and the dual-microphone setup is easy to use. Plus, you get a colorful disco ball, pitch alteration, sound effects, and other fun features. — O.H.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST KARAOKE MIC
JBL PartyBox Wireless Mic
$99.95
If you already have a party speaker or a karaoke system and need a karaoke microphone, we recommend JBL’s new PartyBox wireless mics. Sold as a two pack, the mics are easy to use and deliver crisp, clear sound (even if your singing is anything but). They’re an easy way to get the party started. — O.H.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST PODCASTING MIC
Shure Mv7i Mic
$349
The Shure MV7 — a USB-ready offshoot of the beloved SM7B — became a go-to dynamic podcast mic in recent years, with its excellent isolation and robust sound quality.
The new MV7i is a more-than-worthy successor, with noticeably superior sound — less sibilance, for instance — and even better, the ability to use it as an interface to plug in a second microphone via XLR. That addition is game-changing, turning the MV7i into a super-compact portable podcast studio for one-on-one interviews. The sole drawback is unlike the MV7, you can’t plug the MV7i itself into an external interface via XLR, but that’s a small price to pay for so much additional functionality. — Brian Hiatt
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST PARTY SPEAKER
Klipsch Music City Party Speakers
From $299
Most speakers aim for sleek style, portability, crisp sound, and so on. That’s all great, but for partying, our demands change a bit.
That’s where these fun-loving new Klipsch Music City “party speakers” come in. There are three different models — Klipsch Vegas ($300), Klipsch Miami ($550), and Klipsch New York ($700). They’re loud, full of neon lights, and setup for a karaoke mic connection. They’re invited to all of our parties. — O.H.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST HOME SPEAKER
Audio Pro C20
$550
If you’re looking for a straightforward, one-device home sound system, Audio Pro’s C20 is our top choice. The weighty, stylish box houses a 16.5cm woofer and two 25mm tweeters with a total output of 190 watts, translating to big, room-filling sound without a multi-device system. — O.H.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST COMPACT SOUNDBAR
Bose Smart Soundbar
$399
Bose brought the refined design it’s known for to thr smaller, more affordable Smart Soundbar. It’s an excellent option for smaller TVs or anyone looking for a space-saving option, and the all-metal grille creates a high-end look.
The Smart Soundbar delivers deep bass and quality and AI voice enhancement, so you won’t have to constantly reach for the remote. Plus, Alexa compatibility and Bluetooth make for easy at-home music streaming. — J.Z.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST SPEAKER SYSTEM
JBL MA-710
$799.95
After years of making some of the best mini Bluetooth speakers, JBL returned to its roots with the MA AVR lineup. Details like JBL’s signature orange trim and a “Safe to Turn Beyond 11” inscription on the dial are a reminder that audio gear is supposed to be fun.
Dolby compatibility brings a new dimension to movies and music alike, with old songs expanding in a new way. But it’s more than happy to push a pair of bookshelf speakers, too, and the built-in phono preamp makes it easy to hook up your turntable. — J.Z.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST SMART SPEAKER
Audio Pro WiiM Edition
$206.10
WiiM has consistently cranked out some of the best audio streamers, including 2024’s high-end Ultra Streamer, which are designed to be hooked up to any AVR or stereo to make it smart. But the brand has decided to get into the speaker business directly, partnering with Audi Pro on a stylish multi-room speaker that’s easy to set up and even easier to use.
With support for Spotify Connect, Tidal, and other music streaming services, the Audio Pro WiiM edition is the easiest way to get the party started. — J.Z.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST BOOKSHELF SPEAKERS
KEF Q1 Meta Speaker
$599.99
KEF’s Q1 Meta speakers bring KEF’s signature tweeter-in-a-woofer donut to a more accessible price point, landing at about half the price of the brand’s high-end LS line.
The Q1 Meta’s passive speakers are anything but budget, though, with excellent sound and a simply stunning build. They’re true bookshelf speakers too; at less than a foot tall, they can easily tuck into a narrow media console. The only quirk? The four-ohm impedance rating means you’ll want to match these speakers with an appropriately powerful system. — J.Z.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST SOUNDBAR UNDER $100
Roku Streambar SE
$99.99
The biggest trade-off of our ultra-thin-TV era is sound, with even the crispest, largest TVs pumping out tinny audio. A soundbar is a modern must-have for anyone who doesn’t want to commit to a multichannel setup, and Roku’s new Streambar SE is the compact, entry-level answer we’ve been waiting for. With Roku built-in (naturally), the tiny Streambar SE does double duty as a streaming stick and soundbar. Soundbar holdouts, this one’s for you. — J.Z.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST SURROUND-SOUND SYSTEM
Sony Bravia Quad
$2,199.99
With a boldly minimalist design and big sound, Sony’s Bravia Quad system is the answer for people who want big surround sound performance but aren’t necessarily keen on fussing with traditional AV systems. Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced create an immersive audio experience.
The wireless speakers can be placed anywhere for easy setup, and sound-field optimization calibrates audio performance to your space. Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay, and Bluetooth compatibility make it a great option for streaming music, too. — J.Z.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST WIFI SPEAKERS
Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Pro Edition
$799
At $799, the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Pro Edition is undoubtedly a premium product, but it still costs less than the typical home audio system, while boasting room-filling sound. Of course, the standout feature is the design, with an oblong shape that makes it decidedly modern, or maybe even futuristic.
The Zeppelin Pro updates the 2021 release with new finishes and compatibility with AirPlay, Bluetooth aptX Adaptive, and Spotify Connect. If you want a statement piece with statement-making sound, the Zeppelin Pro is for you. — J.Z.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST HI-FI SPEAKERS
SVS Ultra Evolution Bookshelf
$599.99
The SVS Ultra Evolution Bookshelf speaker features a uniquely angled design that stands out from the typical square box of most bookshelf speakers, but the design isn’t just about looks.
The baffle shape is intended to ensure sound from the tweeter and woofer hit your ears at the same time, and SVS built the Ultra Evolution Bookshelf with audiophiles and movie enthusiasts in mind. It’s a hefty bookshelf speaker, but if you want to go even bigger, SVS also launched the massive Ultra Evolution Titan for room-filling sound. In short, it’s a set of speakers that look as good as they sound. — J.Z.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST SMART SOUNDBAR
Samsung HW-S60D
$279.99
Samsung’s HW-S60D is an affordable option for enhancing your home’s audio, and the speaker boasts wireless Dolby Atmos, which pairs with compatible Samsung TVs for wireless audio. Plus, built-in Alexa, Google Home, Apple AirPlay, and Chromecast compatibility give you a ton of ways to stream music. Samsung’s SpaceFit Sound Pro tunes the soundbar to your space, giving you the best possible audio in rooms big and small. — J.Z.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
MOST INNOVATIVE SPEAKER
Kanto Ren Speakers
$699.99
Kanto’s new Ren speakers feature an innovative design, not just aesthetically, but in terms of performance. With HDMI ARC compatibility, they deliver the plug-and-play simplicity of a soundbar in a true stereo package, and the strikingly minimalist speakers come in five colorways. If you’re looking to go beyond a soundbar but don’t want to commit to a traditional AV system, Kanto’s Ren speakers tick a lot of boxes. — J.Z.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST ECO-FRIENDLY SPEAKERS
House of Marley Rise Up Solar Bluetooth Speaker
$119.99
House of Marley, inspired by the legendary reggae artist and signed off by the family, brings together design, innovation, and sustainability. The Rise Up Solar Speaker is IP67 waterproof rated for every outdoor adventure. Plus, the speaker is made from eco-friendly materials like bamboo and recycled plastic and has a built-in solar charger that adds up to five hours of playtime. — J.Z.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST SOUNDBAR
Klipsch Flexus CORE 200
$399
Anonymity is usually the name of the game with soundbars, but Klipsch decked out the Flexus Core 200 in a stylish walnut finish with a gray grille, or, if you prefer, a more discrete but no less handsome all-black version.
Klipsch teamed up with the AV experts at Onkyo to blend their tech know-how with Klipsch’s audio excellence, and Dolby Atmos compatibility brings room-filling sound. The four-inch built-in subwoofers mean you can skip the separate sub if you’re looking to save space. — J.Z.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST HYBRID RECORD PLAYER
Victrola Eastwood LP
$199.99
Victrola rolled out its new Eastwood LP in 2024, combining everything you could want into a compact record player. The three-speed Eastwood LP includes a full-size 12-inch platter (think less vibration), along with an Audio-Technica AT-3600L magnet cartridge. The brand’s Vinylstream Bluetooth output also means you can pair the player to your other Bluetooth devices to listen to your LPs as they spin. For under $200, it’s a versatile player tailor-made for any vinyl lover. — J.L.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST-DESIGNED RECORD PLAYER
Crosley C92 Turntable
$379
Crosley has made a name for itself as a staple turntable company, perhaps best known for its line of suitcase players at affordable prices for new collectors. Now, Crosley has dropped a new classic with the sleek C92, a versatile turntable in brushed aluminum that packs a vacuum tube preamp on the front with a built-in digital amp. The result: warm-and-steady sound from one of the most stylish record players in the game. The turntable comes with powerful 120-watt speakers, along with both aux and optical inputs and Bluetooth compatibility for a versatile listening experience. At $379, the C92 sounds as stunning as it looks. — J.L.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST RECORD CONSOLE
Wrensilva M1
$16,900
Wrensilva has reinvented the record console with the stunning M1, a piece of furniture that deserves a place in every audiophile’s home.
Made in San Diego, the Wrensilva M1 combines vintage aesthetics with modern-day conveniences. With its built-in 300-watt per channel ICEPower amplifier, the M1 features a vibration-free design where its split plinth, turntable, and speakers are all isolated — something vintage consoles can’t touch. The M1 even works seamlessly with Sonos and Bluetooth alike, making it a true music lover’s essential. — J.L.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST KEYBOARD PIANO
Casio CT-S1-76 Keyboard Piano
$349.99
Casio’s S1 line became a hit when it first launched, but the famed instrument brand took things up a notch last summer when it introduced the Casio S1-76, a 76-key wonder that weighs in at just 11.6 pounds.
Its lightweight design makes it a great choice for both new students learning the instrument and touring artists looking for an easy-to-haul player. We love its simple design and powerful sound, complete with 61 tones, a metronome, and a button to record. Don’t have a power source? No problem — the Casio can run on its own with eight AA batteries. It’s Casio’s best keyboard yet. — J.L.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST ELECTRIC GUITAR
Fender American Ultra II Telecaster
$2199.99
Daring, playable, and unlike anything we’ve seen, the American Ultra II Telecaster is the type of guitar you’ll want to riff on until your fingers can’t handle the friction anymore. One of Fender’s newest releases, it has exceptional tonal characteristics that balance weight, sustain, and resonance seamlessly. Whether you’re a touring musician or just a hobbyist, this out-of-the-box electric guitar will help you channel your inner Keith Richards or Bruce Springsteen. — Alexis Mikulski Ruiz
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST GUITAR AMP
Fender x Jack White Pano Verb Combo Amp
$2,999.99
Fender is synonymous with quality, and their recent collaboration with Grammy Award- winning singer-guitarist Jack White is no exception. This powerful, portable amp delivers the same sound standard from Fender that we all know and love, but with some extra oomph — thanks to White’s edgy influence. It features multiple modes, allowing it to work in almost any setting — from your garage to a professional recording studio. — A.M.R.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST ACOUSTIC GUITAR
Martin HD-28 Acoustic Guitar
$3,499.99
When it comes to acoustic guitars, there’s a certain threshold when the difference between a good instrument and a great instrument can seem small, but with the Martin HD-28 model, the contrast could not be clearer. This 2025 release has impeccable sound quality, best-in-class features (like a complex range of harmonics and a balanced top), and case candy that will make you drool. The meticulously crafted details and smooth strumming experience alone are worth the investment. — A.M.R.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST MICROPHONE
Rhode Wireless Microphone
$149
This microphone by Rhode could not be more different than the brand’s past releases, and that’s what we love most about it. Not only is it small enough to take with you on the go (making it ideal for serious recording sessions or impromptu karaoke parties), but it still delivers the same crystal-clear, silky sound that Rhode’s larger products are known for. Plus, it’s smartphone compatible, making it the ultimate versatile microphone for anyone creating music or content in the digital age. — A.M.R.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST ACOUSTIC PANELS
Auralex Acoustics ProPanel Six-Pack Bundle
$999.99
The Auralex Acoustics ProPanel bundle is one of the most innovative acoustic panels on the market. It works seamlessly in your space to help reduce the sound of echoes, and effortlessly diminishes other unwelcome noises that can ruin your flow. It’s easy to install, comes in two different color options, and is sold in a multipack, helping you get the best bang for your buck. — A.M.R.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST EARBUDS FOR HEARING PROTECTION
Elgin USA Rebel
$129.95
Preserving your hearing health is no joke, especially if you’re spending long days on a loud construction job, or even standing behind a DJ booth on occasion. Elgin’s Rebel earbuds prove that you don’t have to sacrifice sound quality for protection, and while their rugged looks scream durability, you’d be hard pressed to find a better-sounding pair that also blocks out harsh noise this well.
OSHA-compliant and ANSI certified, Rebel boasts a true-to-life 25 dB Noise Reduction Rating, packed with a killer 12-plus hours of onboard battery life on a single charge. With the option to switch between high-density foam tips and comfy silicone, they’re not just work-site wear — when you need to lock into silence, you can, but you’ll get seriously immersive audio quality either way. — S.A.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST HEADPHONES FOR HEARING PROTECTION
Soundcore Space One Pro
$199.99
The Space One Pro’s hidden strength isn’t just its flexible, foldable, roll-up-able design (which is admittedly pretty cool) — it’s how surprisingly powerful their noise cancellation is for the price. Their exclusive 4-Stage ANC system is shockingly good at dialing back everything from the low-end rumble of a plane to busy office spaces.
The real value of noise cancellation this good is that you can enjoy your music in peace, without cranking up the volume and risking your hearing. Soundcore’s HeardID test also uniquely tunes the sound profile to your ears, so you’ll get exceptional audio performance within the best noise-cancelling headphones for hearing protection. — S.A.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST EARPLUGS
Loop Switch 2
$59.95
Building upon its predecessor, the Loop Switch 2 earplugs go beyond the last encore of the night and lets you seamlessly adapt to almost any environment. You can switch between “Quiet”, “Experience,” and “Engage” modes with a simple dial to choose your volume in any setting.
We got crisp and well-balanced sound out of these no matter what mode they were on, but the updated Engage mode is clutch if you still want to chat with your concert buddy while protecting your hearing. While we’re fiends for the rush of a live-music crowd, the true value of the Switch 2 is in its ability to be a “quiet bubble” solution for commuting to work, relaxing at home, working in a cafe — basically anywhere there’s noise. — S.A.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
HEARING-PROTECTION INNOVATION
AirPods Pro 2
$249
Apple has succeeded at turning the world’s most popular earbuds into an over-the-counter hearing aid, and their hearing health features are just as good as they sound. Packaging clinical-grade hearing-aid functionality, a hearing test, and more robust decibel reduction as a software update without any additional cost necessary is a major turning point in hearing-health awareness.
While you might not have thought of replacing your earplugs with the AirPods Pro at concerts before, think of it like a quieter version of unattenuated live sound. The vocals especially sound surprisingly clear, and our enjoyment of live performances wasn’t lessened at all. While AirPods won’t replace hearing aid options for severe hearing loss, these are worthwhile quality of life improvements that deserve to be praised. — S.A.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST MUSIC CLUB
Bowery Ballroom
When Paul McCartney wanted to book a surprise underplay show in New York this February, he went to the Bowery Ballroom — and had so much fun he came back for two more. Take it from Sir Paul: There’s simply no better place to see live music in the city than this 575-capacity Lower East Side club, a beloved institution since its founding in the late Nineties.
The sound is crystal clear, the sight lines are great no matter where you’re standing, and most importantly, the vibe is immaculate; it’s like a cozy dive bar that somehow is also a world-class performance space. An opening gig at the Bowery Ballroom is a rite of passage for any up-and-coming New York act. Returning to headline is a sign that you’ve made it. And even artists who can sell out arenas often come back here when they can. — Simon Vozick-Levinson
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
INNOVATION AWARD
The Sphere Las Vegas
U2, the Eagles, Dead & Company, and Phish have hit the stage at the Sphere in Las Vegas since it opened in 2023, with Kenny Chesney and Backstreet Boys scheduled for residencies in 2025. It’s no surprise it’s the hottest spot to see a show in town: The space uses 167,000 loudspeakers, Sphere Immersive Sound, and 3D audio tech from Holoplot to help put fans right in the middle of the music from every seat.
The Sphere is arguably the most innovative and visually stunning venue that Vegas has to offer, with an immersive sound system to match. — J.L.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST OUTDOOR MUSIC VENUE
Hollywood Bowl
The Hollywood Bowl isn’t just one of L.A.’s finest destinations for live music fans — it’s one of the world’s best music venues. Some of rock & roll history’s most legendary artists and bands have played there, from Joni Mitchell’s most recent landmark concerts to Willie Nelson’s 90th birthday bash.
Along with its unforgettably iconic setting, the Bowl’s sound is equally impressive, thanks in part to high-tech loudspeakers from audio brand L-Acoustics. The Bowl’s L-Acoustics sound system produces modern audio magic that makes it a must-visit for any show — no matter how far back you’re dancing. — J.L.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST MUSIC VENUE
Brooklyn Mirage
After a decade of defining New York City nightlife, Brooklyn Mirage has been completely reinvented from the ground up in the image of operatic, electronic opulence. The iconic, open-air sanctuary in the heart of the Avant Gardner complex now has a sleek, futuristic look that rivals the size and visual scale of the world’s largest music festivals.
Like Brookyn’s own version of the Sphere, the space features the world’s first fully kinetic shutter system, a 270-degree virtual environment covered in LED screens that boast a combined 30K resolution and 100 million pixels. With the shutters closed, the venue feels more like an intimate theater, but at the touch of a button, the space really transforms.
Strategically placed around the venue is an L-Acoustics sound system with over 100 precision-calibrated speakers and subwoofers, so you’ll get an unrivaled audio experience no matter where you stand. We guarantee you won’t get a concert experience like this very often. — S.A.
Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2025: Best Headphones, Speakers, Record Players
BEST AUTO AUDIO SYSTEM
Sonus Faber x Maserati GranTurismo
Maserati’s partnership with Sonus Faber started a few years ago, but it’s still producing the best car audio systems on the market. The best example of the Italian luxury brands’ synergy is the High Premium system in the GranTurismo, which was reintroduced for the 2024 model year.
The system boasts 19 speakers, a 1195-watt output, and a 3D Surround feature. The result is a rich, immersive audio experience — no matter your music tastes — that rivals the GranTurismo’s purring exhaust note. — O.H.
How We Chose the 2025 Rolling Stone Audio Award Winners
To come up with our list of contenders for this year’s Rolling Stone Audio Awards, our team of writers and editors researched products released from 2024 to today, designed by brands in every category, including headphones and earbuds, record players, hearing protection, speakers and sound systems, and automotive audio. We also considered and tested tried-and-true releases from previous years, comparing their sound quality and features to the latest models.
For the 2025 Audio Awards, we collaborated with Rolling Stone’s music department to curate a playlist of songs to consistently test the sound quality of our audio products across the board, from headphones to Bluetooth speakers. Sonically, the playlist runs the gamut from complex house arrangements to rich Seventies harmonies — all best heard with the world’s latest audio gear.
Our team got as much hands-on testing as possible with the latest releases throughout the year, and tested the products according to specific criteria, consulting experts to gain insights and feedback on their top picks in various categories.
We put new guitars in the hands of professional musicians to get their honest opinions on their favorite features, got new mics in the studio with podcasters, and broke a sweat pushing workout earbuds to their limits. We played the latest keyboard pianos, tested noise-cancelling earbuds on international flights, and explored the world’s most innovative new music venues to see if they’re really worth the hype.
After our testing, our team chose this year’s winners based on innovation, design, utility, and, most importantly, how it all sounds. Spoiler: It’s really damn good.
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