While the TDM don’t have ANC, they do have relatively firm earpads and a tight fit that blocks out noise the old-fashioned way: with noise isolation. Unfortunately, maybe for this very reason, the earpads are not as plush as I’d like, and the whole thing feels tight on my admittedly large skull and less than dainty ears. It’s not eerily quiet like using the best noise-canceling headphones , and I can’t imagine that’s a compromise many users are willing to give up easily.

At 11.9-ounces, the Neo are also heavy for on-ear headphones. It’s no surprise, given that they’ve got four 40-mm drivers inside, but it is noticeable. For comparison, they’re 3 ounces (or 34 percent) heavier than the Sony WH-1000XM6 , 1.9 ounces heavier than the more affordable Soundcore Space One Pro, and a full 4.25 ounces heavier than the on-ear Beats Solo 4 .

The Neo sound detailed and pleasant, with clear bass and appreciably distinct vocals, but the presentation feels quite boxed in.…