DALI is serious about making waves in the premium hi-fi market, as we've seen with the recent Epikore launch. Now, the Danes have the head-fi arena in their sights with the new IO-8 headphones.

The trickling-down of Kore technology continues, with the IO-8 being designed by the same team that created Dali's high-end Kore loudspeakers. Furthermore, we're told the new headphones have been made using the same design and sound principles used in its recent Rubikore series of loudspeakers, which impressed us with their "adaptable and meticulous nature" in our Rubikore 2 review.

So, confidence is high that the IO-8 will deliver high-quality sound via both its wired and wireless options.

DALI's IO-8 features 50mm full-range drivers using the company's signature paper-fibre cone diaphragms to deliver "true hi-fi speakers for your head," which the brand says offers a "natural, relaxed sound brimming with detail."

However, you have scope for tailoring the IO-8's sound, even though DALI eschews using a dedicated app. Instead, on-ear buttons allow for a 'hi-fi' sound profile for a "purer, more authentic listen," while a 'bass' mode offers a "punchier, bass-focused performance." Also button-controlled is the active noise cancellation and its transparency mode. Additionally, on-cup buttons give you access to volume, playback, and voice call controls.

Bluetooth codec support covers standard AAC alongside aptX, aptX HD (up to 24-bit/48kHz), and aptX Adaptive, which handles 24-bit/96kHz and lower latency rates from a similarly specced device.

With ANC switched off, the new DALI premium headphones offer up to 35 hours of wireless playback and 30 hours when activated. You can also listen to the headphones wired using the bundled USB-C cable and a 3.5mm stereo mini jack.

The headphones use real leather earpads, and the ear-cup surfaces feature a tastefully radial brushed and anodised finish.

The DALI IO-8 are available now in two finishes, iron black or caramel white, priced at £599/ €599

Visit DALI for more information