Scratch & Dent Was Flawless - and the Sound Is Even Better
David from Miami, FL on 6/25/2025
The "scratch & dent" unit I received from Crutchfield was in near-perfect condition-no visible flaws at all. Shipping was fast and secure, and the generous 60-day return policy gave me the confidence to finally try these. I'm currently comparing the DALI IO-12 to several other high-end headphones I've owned, including models from Focal, Meze, and Bowers & Wilkins. What sets the IO-12 apart is its refined soundstage, low distortion, and dual DAC modes-especially in USB-DAC mode, where it delivers a pure, wired-grade listening experience. Tonally, the two modes offer real flexibility: HiFi mode is clean, neutral, and resolving, while Bass mode adds warmth and low-end presence. Both can be further enhanced with EQ if desired, but even stock, the clarity and instrument separation are on a level rarely seen in wireless ANC headphones. This isn't the most compact option for travel, but it does block ambient noise surprisingly well passively, and the ANC is effective without being aggressive. For home or office use, or critical listening while traveling, it's a serious contender-perhaps even a replacement for multiple other headphones. If you value sound above gimmicks, this is one of the best hybrid designs available today.
Pros: Flawless condition (Scratch & Dent listing) Clean, balanced tuning with two DAC modes Works as true USB-DAC headphone Excellent clarity and imaging Comfortable for long sessions Returnable with 60-day window Bluetooth supports high-end codecs (aptX Adaptive, AAC) Excellent battery life, premium build, and surprisingly comfortable for long sessions Easily competes with or replaces multiple headphones in this price range
Cons: Not very compact for travel-case is large and doesn't fold flat No dedicated app for EQ or customization HiFi mode may sound overly neutral for casual listeners unless paired with custom EQ
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If you're looking for the best, you've found the best
Colin from Ashland, OR on 3/27/2025
I decided to bite the bullet and splurge for the Dali IO-12. For reference I own almost all of the best noise cancelling headphones. B&W PX8, Focal Bathys, ML 9509, Bose, Sony. I travel a lot and am in constant search of the holy grail of headphones and by gosh this is as close as I've come. I have a Sony Hi-Res player, but I typically end up on my iPhone, so I'm not always benefitting from Hi-Res files.Ok, so right out of the box, they sounded incredible. I use Van Morrisons "Enlightenment" album as one of my reference points and I heard things I haven't heard before.simply delicious. Hi Res and Apple Lossless sounded so close I couldn't discern. Wired, wireless, sound quality is incredible. I tried the B&W PX8 and they simply sounded muffled even with the treble all the way up. Next up the Bathys, ...seriously close side by side. Bathys are perhaps the best bang for the buck with more customizability. Dali's are more comfortable and edge the Bathys out.just enough. ML 9509s...I just can't put my finger on it, but I just don't enjoy them as much. I'm not sure if it's the fit or the sound.I know that sounds silly..but one affects the other. The sound and comfort of the Dali's is exceptional and I'm excited to wear them each time. Battery life at 35 hours is nothing I worry about, plenty of cables for wired connections, Lack of an app for customization is actually nice! Bass is absolutely superb, but not overstated . If music is your thing, these are your cans!
Pros: Unparalleled clarity, Solid Base, Super comfortable, Tons of flexibility wired and wireless, Strong Bluetooth connection, No app to worry about, unique look.
Cons: Case size is unusable for backpacks with headphone case sections.
8 of 9 found this helpful
