With wireless earbuds dominating pockets and purses, Sennheiser has quietly championed the humble wired headphone. The German audio specialist’s new CX 80U earbuds and HD 400U headphones plug directly into a laptop or phone via USB‑C, eliminating latency and power issues for streamers, gamers and commuters who still value a tether.

Both models support 24‑bit/96kHz playback and include an integrated DAC that bypasses the sometimes noisy analog output on many devices. The CX 80U are lightweight earbuds with three sizes of silicone tips and a tangle‑resistant flat cable. A built‑in MEMS microphone offers clear voice pickup for calls or online meetings, and the digital connection cuts out the hiss and hum that plague cheaper dongles.

The HD 400U are closed‑back over‑ear headphones with padded earcups and an adjustable headband. Their sealed design blocks out ambient noise while preserving bass, making them suitable for mixing, gaming or just focusing on work in a bustling café.

Sennheiser prices the CX 80U at $39.95 and the HD 400U at $99.95. Both are available now from the company’s website and select retailers. Fans of cutting‑edge earbuds may recall our feature on Sennheiser’s Momentum Sport earbuds, which integrate heart‑rate tracking and adaptive ANC; the new CX and HD lines sit at the opposite end of the spectrum, offering fuss‑free hi‑fi for a fraction of the price.

In an era when analog ports are disappearing, Sennheiser’s plug‑and‑play solution might be the simplest way to guarantee your favorite playlist sounds exactly as the artist intended.