Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 SE Headphones Launch with Enhanced Sound and Comfort

The quiet hum of anticipation among audiophiles just got louder. Cambridge Audio has unveiled the Melomania P100 SE, a refined version of its flagship noise-cancelling headphones promising significant audio and ergonomic upgrades. Building on last year’s P100 model—which delivered technical precision but lacked rhythmic engagement—these new over-ears target both sonic depth and wearability. Available now in black, white, and a striking new blue finish, the P100 SE aims to compete with premium rivals like Sony’s WH-1000XM5 through meticulous re-engineering.

Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 SE: A Sonic Evolution

Cambridge Audio directly addresses the key critique of its predecessor—a somewhat clinical sound profile—by retuning the P100 SE’s 40mm composite neodymium drivers. The result? A “weightier lower end and more refined dynamics” according to the company’s audio engineers, while maintaining the transparent, detailed signature the brand is known for. Class A/B amplification (borrowed from Cambridge’s acclaimed CX-series hi-fi components) ensures minimal distortion, even at high volumes.

Crucially, the P100 SE introduces DynamEQ technology, which dynamically adjusts frequency response to preserve audio balance at any volume level. For wireless listeners, aptX Lossless support enables true CD-quality streaming (16-bit/44.1kHz) over Bluetooth—a rarity in wireless headphones. Battery performance remains exceptional: 60 hours with ANC activated, soaring to 100 hours without it. Five minutes of USB-C fast charging delivers up to 4 hours of playback.

Design and Comfort Upgrades

Beyond acoustics, Cambridge prioritized long-term wearability. The headband now features increased cushioning and recalibrated clamping force to accommodate diverse head shapes—a common pain point in premium over-ears. This addresses feedback from early adopters who found the original P100’s fit restrictive during extended sessions.

The materials and build quality align with the £249/$299 price point, positioning the P100 SE against segment leaders like Sony’s WH-1000XM5 (now similarly priced). While the SE costs slightly more than the original P100’s launch price, it undercuts newer flagships like Sony’s WH-1000XM6 by nearly $100.

Competitive Landscape

The P100 SE enters a crowded premium ANC market dominated by Sony and Bose. Its edge lies in Cambridge Audio’s audiophile pedigree—evident in the Class A/B amplification and lossless codec support—which appeals to listeners prioritizing fidelity over gimmicks. As noted in our original [Cambridge Audio P100 review], rhythmic engagement was the missing piece; early indications suggest the SE’s retuned drivers may resolve this.

For context, Sony’s WH-1000XM5 still sets the benchmark for adaptive noise cancellation, but the P100 SE counters with superior battery life and hi-fi-grade components. As ANC headphones evolve, this release proves refinement often trumps revolution.

The Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 SE represents a thoughtful evolution—prioritizing immersive sound and all-day comfort while retaining class-leading battery tech. For audiophiles seeking wireless freedom without compromising on richness or detail, these headphones warrant serious consideration. Experience the upgrade at authorized retailers today.

Must Know

Q: How do the P100 SE’s sound improvements compare to the original P100?
A: Cambridge Audio explicitly retuned the drivers for enhanced bass response and dynamics while preserving clarity. The original P100’s three-star rating in our review cited a lack of musical engagement—a gap the SE aims to close through refined voicing and DynamEQ technology.

Q: What real-world battery life can I expect with noise cancellation active?
A: Cambridge claims 60 hours with ANC enabled—tested at moderate volumes. This outperforms many rivals; Sony’s WH-1000XM5 offers 30 hours. Disabling ANC extends playback to 100 hours, ideal for long-haul flights.

Q: Does aptX Lossless require specific devices?
A: Yes. You’ll need a compatible smartphone (like recent Snapdragon Sound-enabled Android devices) and a supporting streaming service (Tidal, Qobuz) to access true CD-quality 16-bit/44.1kHz streaming.

Q: Are the comfort upgrades significant for larger head sizes?
A: Absolutely. The re-engineered headband features deeper padding and reduced clamping force. Cambridge Audio explicitly designed this iteration for broader ergonomic compatibility based on user feedback.

Q: Where do the P100 SE rank among 2024’s best noise-cancelling headphones?
A: While full testing is pending, their specs position them competitively against elite models. Key advantages include audiophile-grade amplification, class-leading battery life, and aptX Lossless—features rarely combined at this price.

Q: What colors are available?
A: The SE launches in black, white, and a new navy blue finish. All variants feature matte finishes and minimalist branding consistent with Cambridge’s design language.