Top Audio Gear in 2025: Tom’s Guide Awards Highlights

Explore the best audio gear of 2025 that promises to elevate your music experience with outstanding sound and features.

Transform Your Listening Experience with 2025’s Best Audio Gear

Whether you're after noise-canceling headphones, a soundbar to amp up your TV audio, or a Bluetooth speaker to pump up the party, the right audio equipment can completely change how you enjoy your favorite tunes.

From wireless True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds to audiophile-grade headphones, the hunt for cutting-edge audio gear that boosts sound quality and breathes new life into music and media never stops.

Our team of experts tested and reviewed the latest TWS earbuds, over-ear headphones, soundbars, and speakers for the Tom’s Guide Awards 2025. Below, we share the standout headphones we never want to part with, speakers you’ll want to blast at full volume, and other favorite audio gear from the past year that truly hit the right notes.

Tom’s Guide Awards 2025: Best Audio Gear

Best Headphones

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3

Bowers & Wilkins has long been a contender against Bose and Sony, but something always held them back—bulky design, less impressive noise cancellation, or limited features. That changes with the PX7 S3, headphones that excel at everything and outshine competitors in one key area.

First, their design is a win. Slimmer than previous models but still retaining a premium look and feel, the PX7 S3 blends multiple textures—fabric, metal on the ear cups, and soft faux leather on the ear pads. They look and feel more luxurious than many rivals, right down to the hard carrying case.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is excellent, matching Sony and only slightly behind Bose. The feature set is upgraded with a customizable equalizer, with more improvements expected in 2025. But it’s the sound where PX7 truly shines.

These are among the best-sounding wireless headphones on the market, delivering a warm and inviting sound profile. Detail leaps years ahead, mids span miles, and the bass envelops you, crafting an immersive audio scene perfect for sinking into your favorite chair with a drink in hand. Simply put, they’re a joy to wear.

“These headphones create a soundscape that invites you to relax and enjoy every note.” – Audio Expert

Read our full review of the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3.

Best Noise-Canceling Headphones

Sony WH-1000XM6

When Sony unveiled the WH-1000XM6, expectations were high, and the model excelled in its defining feature—noise cancellation. 2025 didn’t bring many blowout releases, but Sony’s XM6 stood out as the uncontested ANC champ.

This success comes from key upgrades over the XM5, mainly the jump to 12 microphones from 8, paired with a new algorithm delivering spectacular noise suppression.

These headphones manage a wider spectrum of noise and analyze the environment in real-time to adjust noise cancellation levels perfectly. The result? An ANC experience that’s simply top-tier and earns the award this year.

Read our full review of the Sony WH-1000XM6.

Best TWS Noise-Canceling Earbuds

Noble Fokus Amadeus

Noble started with wired audiophile headphones before stepping into wireless territory. Their wireless offerings have been nearly flawless but pricey—until the Amadeus made an entrance. These earbuds deliver outstanding sound and ANC at a more reasonable price.

The secret? The ear tips. While the basic ANC is decent, the included petal-shaped tips work like earplugs, elevating noise cancellation from good to first-class.

Add in solid battery life and game-changing sound, and you’ve got earbuds that nail their purpose and provide an attractive alternative to pricier rivals.

Read our full review of Noble Fokus Amadeus.

Best Wireless Earbuds

Sony WF-C710N

Several great TWS earbuds launched this year, but none compare to the value-packed Sony WF-C710N. Not exactly cheap, but affordable considering they pack flagship sound, ANC, and a robust feature set. They quickly became our favorite earbuds of 2025.

The showstopper? Their translucent blue color, a rare sight in the market that makes them visually distinctive.

But looks aren’t all—inside, they deliver sound quality rivaling models twice the price. Their ANC competes with Bose QuietComfort Earbuds, and an 8.5-hour battery life ensures long listening sessions. They might not scream premium, but they’re absolutely worth buying this year.

Read our full review of Sony WF-C710N.

Best Audiophile Headphones

Final D8000 DC

Choosing audiophile headphones is always tricky—do they sound better or just differently? This year, one premium pair stood out as the best: the Final D8000 DC. Extremely costly but even more impressive, these headphones take the crown.

They boast astonishing detail and mind-blowing bass depth. When paired with proper amplification and a good DAC, you enter a sonic paradise. Despite testing many expensive headphones, the DC8000 moved me with some of the most stunning soundscapes I’ve heard.

The design is simple yet striking, reminiscent of scaffolding, and comes with a sturdy briefcase-style lockable carry case. Every aspect—from the feel to the sound—is simply spectacular. Be ready to open your checkbook.

Read our full review of Final D8000 DC.

Best Soundbar

Marshall Heston 120

Marshall’s first soundbar is a knockout. While it might not match the extendability of the Arc Ultra, it more than compensates with sheer power and musicality.

The bass outshines most soundbars tested by me, giving it a self-sufficient vibe. For medium rooms, the dual built-in drivers mean you won’t need a subwoofer, and Dolby Atmos performance is solid.

What really shines is music playback, where it delivers impressive stereo separation. It sounds better than any soundbar I’ve tried when it comes to music, making it a versatile all-rounder rather than a niche player. Plus, it looks incredibly cool—the debut Marshall soundbar is a huge success.

Read our full review of Marshall Heston 120.

Best Bluetooth Speaker

Marshall Kilburn III

Marshall takes the spotlight again. The consumer audio division of this iconic British amplifier maker keeps gaining momentum, and the Kilburn III is arguably the best Bluetooth speaker I’ve seen recently. It tops our list for a reason.

It sounds incredible, with punchy bass that never overwhelms. Mids are wide, highs crystal clear—nothing more to ask for. Add smart positioning EQ and multiple clever Bluetooth modes, and you’ve got a recipe for success.

Wrapped in retro amp styling that evokes nostalgia, Kilburn III is either a Michelin-star meal or a huge burger from your favorite diner—either way, it crushes competitors with legendary battery life and stunning sound.

Read our full review of Marshall Kilburn III.

Conclusion

2025’s audio gear lineup delivers something for everyone—from audiophiles craving premium sound to casual listeners wanting great value and style. Whether you’re upgrading your headphones, soundbar, or Bluetooth speaker, these picks promise to make your music sound better than ever.

What’s your top audio gear pick this year? Let us know which of these winners you’d love to try or already have!

FAQs

• Which headphones offer the best noise cancellation in 2025?
  Sony WH-1000XM6 leads the pack with an advanced microphone array and real-time noise analysis, delivering unmatched ANC.
• Are there affordable wireless earbuds with premium sound?
  Yes, the Sony WF-C710N offers flagship-level sound and ANC at a very reasonable price point.
• What makes Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3 stand out?
  Their sleek design, premium materials, and warm, detailed sound profile set them apart from competitors.
• Is the Marshall Heston 120 good for music and movies?
  Absolutely—its powerful bass and Dolby Atmos support make it versatile for both music and home theater use.
• Which speaker is best for long battery life and party use?
  The Marshall Kilburn III combines epic battery life with great sound and smart Bluetooth features, making it ideal for parties.

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