1MORE SonoFlow SE Headphones – Wireless, Noise-Canceling, Affordable

1MORE has launched an update to its SonoFlow headphones, providing the market with a more affordable entry-level option that anyone can get behind. Something that kind of feels like a modern version of the MK801/MK802 meets SonoFlow’s noise cancellation capabilities. It is the new 1MORE SonoFlow SE Noise Cancelling Headphones (HQ30).

So how do you make what is already decently affordable more affordable? By breaking out the chisel and focusing on a few given specs that a select niche looking to spend less money might be willing to go without. In exchange for a still fine-sounding solution that comes packed with just as many hours worth of listening (up to 80 hours of listening).

Overall, the design of the headphones come close to the original SonoFlow. By the looks of it, you wouldn’t even think there is any difference. Until you see a single missing port on the right muff that took the same approach as Apple or many other smartphone companies.

You may also notice (if you are familiar with the original) that it doesn’t come with the semi-hardshell case. It’s simply a box with headphones inside, a USB-A to USB-C cable, and some simple instructions.

So the only other thing missing is the analog 3.5mm port and wire that would normally allow you to take a pair of headphones wired when you don’t want to make use of wireless. However, these are clearly designed to be paired with those modern mobile devices that also lack this port.

These headphones are for wireless use only. So you might find a slight reduction in range since it can’t take advantage of that potentially good analog sound. Along with the missing support for Sony’s hi-res LDAC codec on the wireless side. Making for an upsell to the original SonoFlow headphones if one is looking to have access to this.

This means the company took the alternative approach to what most companies do. Typically, a basic wired pair would be entry-level and you find yourself paying more for a wireless edition. But 1MORE clearly wanted to stand out a little with this move.

You do get the benefits that come with SonoFlow’s wireless mode, including the company’s hybrid/active noise cancellation that does a pretty good job for running less than $100. This is what made the original SonoFlow headphones so attractive.

Enabling ANC will cut out a noticable amount of sound around you, making these quite the competing model for having just a $54.99 price tag. It may not have the range of the flagship Yamaha/Sony/Bose headphones out there, but they still sound terrific and the ANC adds a thick layer of icing smothered all over the top. Then compare prices and it’s a no-brainer. A perfect option for those not looking to spend the money on those pricey flagship models.

It also features your familiar multi-functioning controls in the form of a volume up/down set of buttons (as well as track control).

The only other button is the power button which also serves as a multi-functioning button for play/pause and taking/disconnecting phone calls.

Using its built-in microphone, you can use these headphones for phone calls as well. They perform decently well for this given the price.

They also support the 1MORE app that allows users to change between EQs, including a custom EQ. So you can dial them further toward your liking if you feel they don’t sound perfect out of the box.

1MORE’s app is friendly and supports most of the wireless 1MORE products out there. So if you own something else (like the 1MORE EVO True Wireless Earbuds, which is one of our favorites from this company), you will be able to manage both within the same app.

They offer 50-80 hours of use depending on how often you use the ANC. With ANC on, it’s up to 50, and up to 80 without. So a reasonable balance for what the ANC has to offer and quite similar to any pair of decent ANC headphones (when it comes to how ANC effects the battery life).

At 240 grams, they are also quite light on the head. Leading to hours of use without any of that discomfort.

Our Conclusion

So are they good at $55? Yes (they also have a 10% off clickable coupon at the time of writing this via both their site and Amazon). The range is well enough that anyone can get a lot of enjoyment out of them and the ANC (as mentioned) is a nice thick layer of icing all over the top of everything. Then you have 50-80 hours of listening time tucked under that icing. For the price, these are a pretty solid buy.

You just have to find your own solution for traveling with them when you aren’t using them. Maybe make use of an old headphone case or a drawstring bag. We typically use Crown Royal bags in these situations.

If you are looking for something with a little more range (support for Sony’s LDAC codec), wired support, and a nice travel case, you’ll want to make the jump to the original SonoFlow headphones. Other than that, these should make for a fantastic find.

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Co-Author: Jeffrey B.

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