Plantronics unveils BackBeat Pro wireless active noise-cancelling headphones

The new over-the-ear cans are already available to buy in the US, but are expected to be rolled out globally in October. We do, however, have a UK price tag confirmed at £250.

According to Plantronics, the BackBeat Pro can deliver up to 24 hours of playback from a single charge, with a 3.5mm cable also provided to serve as a backup power option.

If used alone, the active noise-cancellation is claimed to eliminate background sounds for up to 60 hours, with its dual-mic solution drawing in background sound and eliminating it.

However, there's also an adjustable OpenMic feature that will let you hear what's going on around you, "pushing the music to the background" and amplifying sounds from around you.

MORE: Read all our Plantronics reviews and news

The cans pack in 40mm dynamic drivers and Plantronics signature audio technologies, while Bluetooth lets you stream your music from a device that's located up to 100m away.

NFC pairing is also on board for use with Android devices, while the fold-flat earcups and nylon travel sleeve are designed to ensure the BackBeat Pro are comfortable and portable.

Plantronics category director for mobile entertainment solutions Greg Miller said: "People want to enjoy their music anytime, anywhere, without having to compromise. That’s why we created BackBeat PRO.

"We designed BackBeat PRO to eliminate distractions with active noise-cancellation, and Bluetooth wireless and ridiculously long battery life melt away the frustrations of limited charge and a tangled mess of cords."

MORE: Best over-ear headphones to buy in 2014

Pete was content editor on What Hi-Fi?, overseeing production and publication of digital content. In creating and curating feature articles for web and print consumption, he provided digital and editorial expertise and support to help reposition What Hi-Fi? as a ‘digital-first’ title; reflecting the contemporary media trends. He is now a senior content strategist. 

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