Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • Impressive sound quality bridges the gap between wired and wireless performance
  • It is a versatile product that can be used as a passive headphone, a USB DAC, or a Bluetooth headphone
  • High build quality, with premium materials like milled aluminum contributing to a robust and luxurious feel
  • Comfortable to wear for extended periods
  • Long battery life, especially in standard mode—up to 70 hours

Product Considerations

  • The fit may not be ideal for those with wider heads
  • The treble response could be sweeter
  • The active noise cancellation may not be class-leading compared to some competitors
  • The volume in wireless mode may not be loud enough for some listeners
  • Soundstage presentation feels intimate compared to full-sized reference headphones

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Mark Levinson No.5909: The Solitaire T has more detail and better organization, though the No. 5909 has a bigger, more spacious presentation
  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins PX8: The noise cancelling of the PX8 is better
  • Vs Focal Celestee: The Solitaire T is comparable when used as a passive wired headphone

Takeaway: The T+A Solitaire T is a versatile and well-built headphone that offers high-quality sound in both wired and wireless modes, making it a great choice for audiophiles on the go or those who want one set of headphones for all situations. Listeners can enjoy music in a lot of different ways with these, and they sound very good.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

Solitaire T

reviews

[{"title":"Second opinion: T+A Solitaire T review","link":"https://darko.audio/2024/01/second-opinion-ta-solitaire-t","source":"Darko Audio","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"T+A Solitaire T review","link":"https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/ta-solitaire-t","source":"What Hi-Fi?","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"T+A Elektroakustic Solitaire T: Do-It-All Headphones?","link":"https://www.soundstageglobal.com/index.php/blogging-on-audio/172-hans-wetzel/1143-ta-elektroakustic-solitaire-t-do-it-all-headphones","source":"SoundStage! Global","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"T+A Solitaire T wireless headphones","link":"https://hifiplus.com/articles/ta-solitaire-t-wireless-headphones","source":"Hi-Fi+","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"T+A Solitaire T Wireless Headphones Review","link":"https://audio46.com/blogs/headphones/t-a-solitaire-t-wireless-headphones-review","source":"Audio46","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"T+A Solitaire T","link":"https://hifiandmusicsource.com/2023/01/ta-solitaire-t","source":"HiFi and Music Source","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"T+A Solitaire T headphones review","link":"https://www.homecinemachoice.com/content/ta-solitaire-t-headphones-review","source":"Home Cinema Choice","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"T+A Solitaire T Review","link":"https://majorhifi.com/ta-solitaire-t-review","source":"Major HiFi","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Review: T+A Solitaire T wireless audiophile headphones","link":"https://www.parkablogs.com/content/review-ta-solitaire-t-wireless-audiophile-headphones","source":"parkablogs.com","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"T+A Solitaire T Review: High-End Audiophile Wireless Headphones","link":"https://musicphotolife.com/2023/01/ta-solitaire-t-review-audiophile-wireless-headphones","source":"Music Photo Life","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"T+A Solitaire T Review: $1,600 Headphones?!","link":"https://www.tech360.tv/t-a-solitaire-t-review","source":"Tech360","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Test T+A Solitaire T – The new gold standard for Bluetooth headphones","link":"https://www.lowbeats.de/en/test-ta-solitaire-t-the-new-gold-standard-for-bluetooth-headphones","source":"LowBeats","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Exceptional Hi-Fi Everywhere—T+A Solitaire T Headphones Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApvIX5rYMUE","source":"SoundStage! Network","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"T+A Solitaire T Review: High-End Headphone on the Move Wireless!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vr06vSEyN24","source":"ZP Productions","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"T+A Solitaire T Review: $1,600 For These Headphones, WHAT???","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pm0OUTqdxPI","source":"Audiofied","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"T+A Solitaire T Review: Most Expensive Wireless Headphone In The World","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZ4pfq9KOlE","source":"MajorHiFi","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"T+A Solitaire T audiophile wireless headphones (review)","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zET9AInmtpA","source":"Teoh on Tech","datePublished":"2023"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Ear coupling: around-ear, closed
  • Driver: selected, low tolerance dynamic drivers
  • Frequency response: active 4 - 22,000 Hz, passive 4-45,000 Hz
  • THD: <0.05 % (1 kHz / 94 dB)
  • Impedance: passive 64 Ohms
  • Microphones: 2 communication microphones on the right, 2 ANC microphones on each side
  • Noise Cancelling: hybrid
  • Chipset: Qualcomm QCC 5127
  • Bluetooth Version: 5.1, class 2
  • Bluetooth Profiles: A2DP, AVRCP, HSP, HFP
  • Codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD
  • Battery Technology: Lithium Ion
  • Battery Capacity: 1200 mAh
  • Charging Power: 5 V 1 A (5 W) max
  • Charging Socket: USB-C
  • Charging Time: 2 h
  • Battery Lifetime: 70 h, 35 in HQ mode
From the first day the Solitaire T was developed with a single goal in mind: to blur the distinctions between audiophile, working and travel headphones by making the values and convictions which are the hallmark of every T+A product accessible in almost every situation in life. Their transducer system is a completely new development, capable of reproducing the most subtle nuances in audiophile quality in active and passive mode alike, while the passive insulation on its own is sufficient to push the outside world into the background.
From the first day the Solitaire T was developed with a single goal in mind: to blur the distinctions between audiophile, working and travel headphones by making the values and convictions which are the hallmark of every T+A product accessible in almost every situation in life.

Their transducer system is a completely new development, capable of reproducing the most subtle nuances in audiophile quality in active and passive mode alike, while the passive insulation on its own is sufficient to push the outside world into the background. When combined with active background noise suppression, which can be switched on as required, unwanted sounds disappear completely behind the music.

The pearl-blasted aluminium components are machined from solid, and are much more than a design statement: they are so robust and durable that they ensure the headphones will remain their owner's companion for years. At the same time they emphasise in a subtle but distinctive manner the product's close relationship with our Solitaire P reference headphones.

Like its physical design, the Solitaire T's inputs are designed with one aspect in mind: versatility. The Solitaire T places no restrictions on its user, as they feature signal transfer via totally symmetrical passive and active analogue inputs as well as USB C and the very highest-quality wireless Bluetooth standards; the design maximises the...
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

  • T+A leverages a high-voltage (HV) power supply to achieve a tube-like response from solid-state components, increasing the voltage rail to 100 volts compared to the typical +/-16 to 24 volts.
  • They employ a proprietary "True 1-bit" DSD converter, processing DSD data in its native bitstream form, rather than converting it to PCM, in select DACs and players.
  • T+A incorporates in-house designed switching power supplies over off-the-shelf components, maximizing current delivery and improving sonic payoff.

CALA Series:

  • Positioning: Designed for music enthusiasts who value compactness and simplicity without compromising on sound quality.
  • Description: Offers a sleek design with a purist front panel. Features a DSP-controlled sound management system, which is not found in the more traditional E-Series, providing enhanced sound customization options.

Caruso Series:

  • Positioning: A compact all-in-one music system that combines modern functionality with high-quality sound.
  • Description: Stands out with its integrated 7-inch HD touchscreen and NavigatorOS, offering intuitive control and a modern user interface, unlike the more traditional controls of the E-Series. It handles streaming, CD playback, and radio in a single device.

E-Series:

  • Positioning: A classic stereo system that integrates modern digital capabilities with traditional high-fidelity sound.
  • Description: Combines the sound quality of an audiophile amplifier with digital streaming capabilities, offering a balance between traditional and modern audio needs. Unlike the more compact Caruso, provides higher power output and more connectivity options.

R-Series:

  • Positioning: T+A's oldest and most important product group, known for its high-end performance and classic design.
  • Description: Uses high-voltage technology for superior linearity and transient response, setting it apart from the more compact Series 200. Designed for users who prioritize high power output and detailed sound reproduction.

HV-Series:

  • Positioning: T+A's flagship line, representing the pinnacle of high-end audio technology and performance.
  • Description: Uses high-voltage technology to achieve exceptional sound quality, with separate high-performance converters for PCM and DSD. Offers the highest level of performance and build quality compared to other series.
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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
15
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
75
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
47
Founding Year
1978

Our take on the brand

T+A is a hifi brand that combines transistor and valve technologies in their HV-Series amplifiers, using high voltage for linear performance, while their A 200 Power Amplifier uses PURIFI Eigentakt technology for low distortion regardless of speaker load.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

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What if you spend more?

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What competes at this price?

Dali
IO-12
1300
/
Released
2023
The state-of-the-art DALI IO-12 Hi-Fi headphones offer you hours of listening pleasure in sumptuous comfort. From the real leather headband and ear pads to the 50 mm paper fibre cone and groundbreaking SMC drivers, the IO-12s reveal every musical detail.
Check Amazon
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Incredible sound quality, with neutrality, detail, and balance across the frequency range
  • Excellent build quality with premium materials and comfortable, luxurious design, making them suitable for extended listening sessions
  • Adequate battery life, with reviewers reporting around 35 hours of wireless playback with ANC
  • Effective active noise cancellation reduces low-frequency sounds without significantly impacting sound quality
  • Versatile connectivity options including Bluetooth, USB-C for high-resolution audio, and a 3.5mm analog input that can be used passively

Product Considerations

  • High price point puts them out of reach for many consumers
  • Lack of a companion app limits customization options like EQ settings, firmware updates via mobile, and custom control settings
  • Large earcups and overall weight may not be suitable for those with smaller heads, and the headband may slip
  • Included travel case is large
  • Some reviewers found the dark chocolate color scheme unappealing

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The DALI IO-12 has better ANC than the Focal Bathys
  • The IO-12 is similar in sound signature to the Mark Levinson No. 5909

Takeaway: The DALI IO-12 is a high-end wireless headphone that delivers exceptional sound quality, comfort, and versatility, making it a great choice for audiophiles who want a premium listening experience on the go. Its blend of wired and wireless capabilities, combined with a mature design, makes it an excellent all-around performer.

Video review

Our take on the brand

DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Bang & Olufsen
Beoplay H100
2200
/
Released
2024
Beoplay H100 deliver immersive sound and a luxurious design built to stand the test of time. These advanced headphones, which are optimised for Dolby Atmos, feature titanium drivers and next-level noise cancellation. Perfect for music, work, and travel.
Check Amazon
Bang & Olufsen is a luxury hifi speaker brand known for its Acoustic Lens Technology, which delivers 180° horizontal sound dispersion—features like the BeoLab 90's 18 individually amplified drivers offer user-selectable beam patterns. The Danish company distinguishes itself through vertically integrated aluminum manufacturing in Struer, a factory-led program that restores and modernizes its classic products, and transparent engineering documentation led by in-house tonmeister Geoff Martin.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Amazing sound quality with wide soundstage and airy, ethereal sounds, especially in the treble, create a magical experience
  • Very comfortable, despite being heavier than some alternatives, with earcups that wrap around the ear and a redesigned headband

Product Considerations

  • Warranty experience may vary significantly depending on location and travel habits, so the global warranty should not be taken at face value
  • Color options are limited, and some lighter colors may stain easily
  • Lack of high-resolution Bluetooth codec support at the time of some reviews, although promised for a future update

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Bang & Olufsen H95: H100 has a massive soundstage and is more comfortable
  • Vs Focal Bathys: H100 offers a smooth, neutral, and refined sound signature, while Focal Bathys delivers a more dynamic and energetic sound

Takeaway: The Beoplay H100 provides excellent sound and comfort, delivering a luxurious experience with high-quality materials and build quality. It is a top-tier product for people who want great design and sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Bang & Olufsen is a luxury hifi speaker brand known for its Acoustic Lens Technology, which delivers 180° horizontal sound dispersion—features like the BeoLab 90's 18 individually amplified drivers offer user-selectable beam patterns. The Danish company distinguishes itself through vertically integrated aluminum manufacturing in Struer, a factory-led program that restores and modernizes its classic products, and transparent engineering documentation led by in-house tonmeister Geoff Martin.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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