The Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 SE represents the company’s most refined step into the world of premium wireless noise-cancelling headphones. Building on Cambridge Audio’s decades of hi-fi heritage, the Special Edition takes everything that worked in the original P100 and polishes it with upgraded comfort, improved noise cancellation, and a subtle but welcome boost to audio performance.
Design & Comfort
Straight out of the box, the P100 SE feels robust yet understated. The matte finish resists fingerprints, while the new padded headband distributes weight more evenly across the head. At around 330g they aren’t the lightest headphones in their class, but for most users the soft earpads and balanced clamping force make them perfectly comfortable for long listening sessions.
The design language is simple and timeless — no flashy branding, just a clean aesthetic that reflects Cambridge Audio’s hi-fi roots. Durability also feels above average, with replaceable earpads and even a user-replaceable battery, making them a more sustainable purchase than many rivals.
Features & Technology
- Drivers: Custom 40mm tri-layer diaphragms tuned for clarity and depth.
- Amplification: Rare in this category, Cambridge Audio employs Class A/B amplification for a more natural, hi-fi presentation.
- Bluetooth: Latest Bluetooth 5.3 with support for aptX Adaptive and Lossless for high-resolution streaming.
- ANC & Transparency: Three levels of noise cancellation plus an ambient mode. While not as aggressive as Sony or Bose at silencing the world, the P100 SE balances isolation with maintaining the integrity of the music.
- Battery Life: Up to 100 hours without ANC and 60 hours with it engaged — genuinely class-leading numbers.
- Controls & App: Physical buttons ensure accurate operation, while the Melomania app offers EQ adjustment, ANC control, firmware updates, and a “DynamEQ” feature that subtly balances bass and treble depending on listening volume.
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Sound Quality
Where these headphones really shine is their sound. The P100 SE delivers a wide, uncluttered soundstage with impressive instrument separation. The tuning strikes a balance between neutrality and musicality:
- Bass: Weighty, well-controlled, and tighter than before. It has punch without veering into bloated territory.
- Mids: Clean and articulate, allowing vocals and acoustic instruments to cut through naturally.
- Treble: Smooth and detailed without the harshness that can cause fatigue during long sessions.
The result is a presentation that feels lively and engaging, yet refined enough for critical listening. Whether streaming hi-res via aptX Lossless, catching up on a podcast, or gaming with ANC engaged, the P100 SE adapts well across different content.
Real-World Use
In everyday scenarios, the P100 SE proves versatile. Commuters will appreciate the strong ANC performance against engine rumble, while office users will find the transparency mode useful for staying aware of surroundings. The extraordinary battery life means you can use them for days — even weeks — without scrambling for a charger.
The replaceable battery and pads mean longevity is built into the design. For anyone tired of headphones becoming disposable after two or three years, that’s a huge selling point.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are the earpads and battery replaceable on the Melomania P100 SE?
Yes. Unlike many headphones in this category, the P100 SE has user-replaceable earpads and battery, which makes them a more sustainable and longer-lasting purchase.
Q: How long does the battery really last?
With Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) turned off, you can expect up to 100 hours of playtime. With ANC on, battery life is around 60 hours. In everyday mixed use, most users can go a week or more without recharging.
Q: How good is the noise cancelling compared to Sony or Bose?
The P100 SE offers strong ANC performance, especially for low-frequency sounds like engine noise. However, Sony and Bose still lead in cutting out unpredictable, higher-frequency sounds. The P100 SE’s strength lies in balancing ANC with sound quality and battery life.
Q: Do the headphones support high-resolution audio?
Yes. They support aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless, meaning if your device supports these codecs, you’ll get higher-quality, low-latency audio streaming.
Q: Are they comfortable for long listening sessions?
The upgraded padded headband and soft earpads improve comfort over the original model. At around 330g they are slightly heavier than some rivals, but most listeners find them comfortable for extended use.
Q: Can I connect the Melomania P100 SE to more than one device?
Yes. They feature multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stay connected to two devices at the same time (for example, your phone and your laptop).
Q: Who are these headphones best suited for?
The P100 SE is ideal for music lovers who want hi-fi sound quality, exceptional battery life, and sustainable design. They may not be the best pick if maximum ANC strength is your top priority, but for balanced all-round performance, they’re outstanding.
My Verdict
The Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 SE may not topple Bose or Sony on pure noise cancelling, but it excels where it truly matters: sound quality, battery life, and long-term value. For listeners who care about music above marketing gimmicks, these headphones deliver an authentic hi-fi experience in a wireless, travel-friendly package.
If you want headphones that sound exceptional, last for days on a single charge, and are built to be kept for years rather than replaced, the P100 SE is an outstanding choice.
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