INTRODUCTION

   Although the market is filled with both wired and wireless headsets there have never been that many wireless ones which one can use with a TV set and that pretty much goes as far back as i can remember. Quite a few manufacturers used to make such models but due to limited battery life (not to mention that most didn't even feature rechargeable batteries), bulky size and in many cases interference with their radio frequency by other devices they never were that popular among consumers. However thanks to several advancements in technology over the years wireless headsets have not only become quite compact but now they also feature static-free low-latency signal and long battery life. Noontec has become quite popular over the years thanks to their proven Zoro lines of both wired and wireless headsets so when we came across their newest Hammo TV model we couldn't resist checking them out.

   Noontec built its brand in Australia starting in March 2002 and has been dedicated to providing customers high-quality audio and video products ever since. Noontec consistently pursues creating precisely designed, high-tech products that offer customers’ wonderful experiences. In 2005, Noontec launched the word’s first all aluminum 1080p HD media player -- A6, which were sold at more than 40 countries, resulting in amazing sales of over 500,000 sets! In 2010, Noontec launched the first collapsible Hi-Fi headphones called ZORO, which became rapidly popular with its fashionable design in conveniently compact structure and Hi-Fi grade sound, receiving 5-star level acclaim from over 40 respected media outlets! Afterward, Noontec went on to release other headphones, including Hammo, Rio and has received high, widespread praise from customers worldwide. Noontec focuses on product quality and sustainable innovation and strives for perfection. Each product must live up to your expectations, so thank you for your interest.

   Just like the Zoro wireless headsets released by noontec over the years the Hammo TV is also a Bluetooth model (version 4.1 with a range of up to 10 meters and support for CSR's aptX low-latency codec). Just like with many other of their headsets noontec has once again used the award winning Votrik HD500 High Definition 50mm dynamic stereo drivers that feature a frequency response of 5Hz-30KHz with 105dB sensitivity and 32 Ohm impedance which they have paired with a lithium-ion rechargeable battery pack (fixed, can't be replaced) that can provide the headset with up to 50 hours of use. Finally in order to make the headset compatible with every TV set out there (and not just Bluetooth compatible devices) noontec has bundled the Hammo TV with an Bluetooth docking station (can be connected with two Bluetooth headsets at the same time) which features 3.5mm audio input connectivity (via RCA or 3.5mm audio output) and a USB port which can be used to recharge the headset.

SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

A large product picture is placed at the front of the box with a TV on the background.

Product pictures are also placed on both sides of the box.

A connectivity drawing is placed at the rear of the box right over the product features printed in 6 languages.

Once you remove the exterior of the box you will find a piece of paper with the noontec logo on one side and the same connectivity drawing on the other.

The entire bundle is packed in three sections inside the box.

So aside the Hammo TV headset (is shipped folded inside the box) you are also getting a carrying pouch, two piece docking station, wall adapter with both EU/UK plugs, USB cable (for the wall adapter), USB charging cable (for the headset), two 3.5mm audio cables (with gold plated plugs), RCA cable, user manual, warranty information, safety instructions and an paper about the rechargeable battery pack.

THE HAMMO TV

The Hammo TV headset features a glossy plastic exterior and is small to medium sized.

As usual we placed the headset in our hands right next to the compact REVO Wireless headset by Jabra.

We also used a small foam head to showcase the size of the headset.

Noontec has placed their logo on the exterior of both earcups.

The product name is also placed on both sides right over the earcups.

At the rear of the left earcup we find the on/off button, battery status LED, media navigation buttons (previous track/volume up and next track/volume down) and the 3.5mm port further down (can also be used to charge the battery).

Left and right markings are placed on the interior just over the earpads.

The leatherette covered earpads may not be very large but they are quite comfortable.

The same applies for the headpad since it may not be very thick but thanks to the size and weight of the headset it does very well.

Both ends of the headset extend up to 20mm (40mm total) via 9 visible increments on the interior.

The company logo is printed on the exterior of the headband.

Moving to the docking station its base has two small holes for the metal hanger, on/off power button (to connect a second headset with the base wait until the first is paired and then push this button once to beging pairing the second) and the company logo (a small activity LED is placed at the front).

At the rear we find the micro USB power port, USB charging port for the headset, reset button and the auxiliary 3.5mm audio input.

The docking station looks quite nice with the headset hanged on it.

CONCLUSION

   When we first checked out the Hammo TV a few months back we were somewhat disappointed to see that noontec didn’t use an optical audio input. Of course with most modern TV screens featuring Bluetooth connectivity it’s really not a surprise that noontec decided to equip the docking station of the Hammo TV just with a 3.5mm plug (which can be used both with RCA and 3.5mm) but we do think that an optical input would be a good touch. In terms of audio quality the Hammo TV delivers accurate mids with a very good amount of bass but after also using it as a standalone headset (both wired and wireless) we have to admit that it doesn’t impress with its highs. Of course listening to music is not quite the same as with watching movies on your TV screen but there’s definitely room for some improvement in that area. Noontec claims that the Hammo TV features up to 50 hours of battery life but that always depends on the volume levels used and so at almost maximum we were able to hit just over 30 hours a number which is very impressive regardless. As for range you will not have a problem using the Hammo TV inside the same room or the next but the moment you leave its range of 10 meters (reduce that to 7 with one concrete wall in the middle) the signal will get cut off entirely and will get reconnected once you move back into range again.

   So just how much do you need to spend for the Hammo TV Personal Wireless Audio System by noontec? Well currently the Hammo TV retails for USD119.95 inside the USA (Amazon.com) and for 134Euros inside the EU (Amazon.co.uk) a price which places it right in the middle of several other wireless headsets. Of course not many are designed to be used with old TV screens and that’s also its strong selling point. Ontop of that add the very good overall audio quality, long battery life and compact size (among many other things) and you get a headset worthy of our Golden Award.

PROS

- Build Quality (Steel Reinforced Hinges)
- Compact Design
- Accurate Mids
- Bass Levels
- Up To 50 Hours Of Battery Life
- Docking Station (Bluetooth Compatibility With Older TVs And Devices / Can Be Connected With Two Headsets)
- Comfortable
- Foldable Design (Less Space Required)
- Gold Plated 3.5mm Cables
- Bluetooth And 3.5mm Wired Use

CONS

- Current Price (EU)
- Highs Could Be Better