The Panasonic RB-M700 headphones boldly claim to deliver a bass experience unlike any other, essentially turning your head into a personal subwoofer. These headphones aren’t about subtle nuances or audiophile clarity; they’re about feeling the music, letting it resonate through your bones with a powerful, almost visceral punch. The promise is a deep, immersive sound that prioritizes low-end frequencies above all else. Does the Panasonic RB-M700 deliver on this ambitious promise, or does it fall flat, becoming just another muddy, bass-heavy disappointment?
Design and Comfort
The RB-M700 headphones have a distinctly bulky design. This isn’t surprising, considering the “subwoofer for your head” concept. The earcups are large and padded, designed to create a tight seal around your ears. While this contributes to the bass response, it also impacts comfort. Long listening sessions can become tiring, and the headphones can feel quite heavy on the head.
- Pros: Robust build quality, tactile controls.
- Cons: Bulky design, can feel heavy and uncomfortable during extended use.
Sound Quality: Bass is King
As the name and marketing suggest, the RB-M700 is all about the bass. The low frequencies are undeniably powerful and pronounced. If you’re a bass head, you’ll likely find these headphones incredibly satisfying. Electronic music, hip-hop, and other bass-heavy genres truly come alive. However, the emphasis on bass comes at the expense of clarity in other frequencies. Mids and highs can feel somewhat recessed, lacking the detail and sparkle found in more balanced headphones. This creates a sound signature that some may find fatiguing or lacking in overall fidelity.
Breaking Down the Sound
- Bass: Deep, powerful, and resonant. Dominates the sound signature.
- Mids: Recessed and lacking detail. Can sound muddy.
- Highs: Somewhat rolled off and lacking sparkle.
Comparison with Competitors
Let’s see how the Panasonic RB-M700 stacks up against similar bass-focused headphones:
| Feature | Panasonic RB-M700 | Sony WH-XB910N | Skullcandy Crusher ANC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bass Emphasis | Very High | High | Extreme (adjustable) |
| Noise Cancellation | No | Yes | Yes |
| Comfort | Moderate | Good | Moderate |
| Price | Mid-Range | Mid-Range | High-End |
This shows that while the RB-M700 offers a strong bass presence, it lacks features like noise cancellation that are available in competing models at a similar price point.
Ultimately, the value of the Panasonic RB-M700 hinges on your personal preferences. If you crave earth-shattering bass and don’t mind sacrificing some clarity in other frequencies, they might be a good fit. However, for those seeking a more balanced and versatile sound, there are better options available. In conclusion, the Panasonic RB-M700 might not be for everyone, but if “subwoofers for your head” sounds appealing, it’s worth considering.
