Denon AH-GC20

Hybrid headphones from Denon AH-GC20 — a status model for those who often spend time on the road.

Ergonomics for everyone

According to the company itself, the ergonomics of the headphones was developed through painstaking empirical work — “the structural features of the ears and heads of more than 4,000 people from different countries and cultures were studied in order to understand what everyone needs to enjoy the best sound and comfort.” And it is readily believed. The earphones are really very comfortable and practical. The bowls rotate and fold compactly. The headband slider, made of metal alloy, has markings so that you can evenly adjust the position of both earcups.

Noise suppression

The model has an active noise reduction system, although the passive one does a good job in itself. Already only due to dense, soft, enveloping ear pads, the sound insulation is very decent. And paired with ANC, the noise cutoff is almost perfect. Nearby conversations are practically inaudible, sharp sounds are cut, in an airplane, the metro “live” becomes much more comfortable. But, in fairness, it is worth noting that in the same almost "exemplary" Bose QuietComfort 35 ANC is still better implemented.

sound

Sound is difficult. He is ambiguous. Through the cable, the headphones sound noticeably better than over Bluetooth, and even better through the cable and with ANC disabled. AptX for wireless connection and support for the AAC codec do not save the situation much, but a single device and the quality of the file being played are essential. In general, with the AH-GC20, you need to find your own sound. These headphones will open to those who are ready for experiments.

But you won't have to experiment with the quality of voice transmission via hands free. Thanks to the Clear Voice Capture function, in a relatively quiet place, the audibility is almost perfect.

Long battery life

15 hours at 80% volume with noise reduction turned on — this is the result of the model from one full battery charge. With ANC turned off, the figure increases to 20 hours.

Equipment

It would be surprising if Denon left AH-GC20 buyers without a handy case, audio and charging cable, and an airplane adapter. Everything you need for travel is included. And it's nice.

In general, the Denon AH-GC20 is quite a competitive model in the niche of top-end closed headphones with active noise cancellation. The only thing, perhaps, that remained incomprehensible to us is why, despite the status of the model and the cost of almost 400 USD, it does not have a system of voice prompts.