The Momentum True Wireless series has carved a niche for itself in the crowded true wireless earbud market by prioritizing fidelity above all else. For discerning listeners who find other earbuds lacking in sonic detail or resolution, the Momentums have consistently offered a breath of fresh air. The Momentum True Wireless 4 (MTW4) builds upon this legacy, offering a comprehensive refinement that elevates the listening experience in several key ways.

But with a premium price tag attached, does the MTW4 justify its cost in a market overflowing with compelling options from established giants like Sony, Bose, and Apple? Let’s delve deeper to explore the MTW4’s strengths and weaknesses, ultimately helping you decide if they’re the right fit for your ears and your wallet.

Design and Comfort

Gone is the somewhat boxier design of previous models. The MTW4s boast a smooth, rounded aesthetic that melts effortlessly into the ear. This, combined with four included ear tip sizes in a variety of materials, ensures a fit that’s both secure and comfortable for a wider range of ear shapes and sizes.

Unlike some competitors that rely solely on an in-ear pressure seal for a snug fit, the MTW4s’ design adopts a more ergonomic approach. This distributes pressure more evenly around the ear canal, reducing the potential for fatigue or discomfort during extended listening sessions. The included ear tips are constructed from a soft, medical-grade silicone that conforms well to the ear canal, further enhancing comfort and passive noise isolation. An IPX4 water resistance rating provides enough protection to withstand workouts or light rain, though it’s always wise to exercise caution with high-end electronics.

Sound Quality

Sennheiser’s audio prowess is on full display here. The MTW4s deliver remarkably detailed and balanced sound. Imagine listening to a complex orchestral piece. Violins and cellos have a rich, natural body, while the higher-pitched flutes and piccolos shimmer with clarity. Bass is present and impactful, adding weight and punch to kick drums and bass lines without ever bleeding into the midrange and muddying the overall mix. Vocals are rendered with exceptional detail, faithfully conveying every inflection and nuance of the performance. Whether you’re dissecting the intricate layers of a classical masterpiece, getting lost in the pulsating energy of electronic music, or swaying to the soulful tones of your favorite singer, the MTW4s deliver a listening experience that’s both analytical and engaging.

Those who enjoy a bit more bass or want to tailor the sound to their preferences can customize the EQ within the Sennheiser Smart Control app. However, purists will likely be happy with the MTW4s’ out-of-the-box tuning, which strikes a perfect balance between accuracy and musicality.

The soundstage is another highlight. Many true wireless earbuds struggle with a claustrophobic feel, as if the music is being piped directly into your ears. The MTW4s, however, boast a surprisingly wide soundstage that creates a sense of spaciousness and allows you to distinguish the positioning of individual instruments within the mix. It’s particularly noticeable on well-recorded orchestral music where you can almost visualize the instrument sections – a rarity for this form factor.

Features

The MTW4s are equipped with adaptive noise cancellation (ANC) which does a commendable job of filtering out a wide range of unwanted background noise. This technology utilizes microphones positioned both inside and outside the earbuds to detect and cancel out ambient sounds. Whether you’re commuting on a busy train, working in a noisy cafe, or simply trying to focus on your workout, the ANC effectively reduces distractions, allowing you to immerse yourself in your music, audiobooks, or podcasts.

The level of ANC can be adjusted through the Sennheiser Smart Control app, providing you with control over how much ambient noise reduction you desire. Additionally, a transparency mode is available for situations where you need to be aware of your surroundings, such as while walking in traffic or having a conversation.

Call quality is excellent, thanks to advanced noise-reducing microphones that ensure your voice is clear even in noisy environments. This makes them a reliable choice for hands-free calls on the go. Whether you’re catching up with a friend or colleague, participating in a conference call, or joining a video meeting, the MTW4s ensure clear communication. The microphones effectively pick up your voice while significantly reducing background noise, ensuring you’re heard loud and clear on the other end. This makes them a versatile option for busy professionals who need to stay connected while on the move.

Sennheiser has finally embraced the latest Bluetooth standards with the MTW4. Support for Bluetooth 5.4 and the aptX Adaptive codec ensure a stable connection and the potential for high-resolution audio playback from compatible devices.

Battery Life

Advertised battery life is up to 7.5 hours per charge with ANC on, and the charging case holds an additional three full charges. This is a solid improvement over previous Momentum models and on par with competitors. In real-world use, the battery life holds up well, easily lasting through a day of mixed listening with ANC activated. Quick charging provides additional playback time with just a few minutes plugged in.

Comparison to the Competition

The true wireless earbud market is fiercely competitive, with strong offerings from Sony, Bose, Apple, and others. While Sennheiser has upped their game with the MTW4s, they face some impressive rivals.

• Sony WF-1000XM4: Sony’s flagship earbuds offer slightly better noise cancellation and longer battery life. They lean towards a slightly warmer sound profile with a touch more bass presence.
• Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen): While tailored for those deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem, the AirPods Pro offer excellent integration with Apple devices, strong ANC, a comfortable fit, and surprisingly good sound quality.

The Verdict: Should You Buy the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4?

If you’re the kind of person who appreciates music beyond just background noise, the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 deserve a serious look (or rather, a serious listen). These earbuds are crafted for discerning audiophiles, striking the perfect balance between premium sound, stylish design, and all-day comfort.

The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 aren’t the cheapest option out there, but they stand out as a worthy investment for music enthusiasts.