Buying new headphones these days is almost as complicated as finding the perfect balance: you want them to look good, to “hear” you, to be able to silence the world around you… and not cost you half your monthly rent. Of course, you can choose the first AirPods that catch your eye (and out of your ear), or you can venture into a more sophisticated world, where 200 euros still means quality, and not just “luxury at a sale price”. In this zone of “audio comfort” – that is, between 100 and 200 euros – there are unexpectedly many sonic treasures hidden. But, as always, not all headphones are born equal. Some are masterfully balanced, others are irresistible in design, and still others simply stubbornly insist on a 100-hour battery life as if this is completely normal.