Loewe has officially entered the premium over-ear headphone market with its new Leo model priced at a steep €1,299. Targeting audiophiles and high-end tech users, the Loewe Leo combines LC3+ codec support, active noise cancellation, and AI-powered features like real-time voice translation.

Loewe Leo headphones focus on a premium build and sound

From the outside, the Leo makes its luxury price point known. The frame is crafted from aluminum and genuine leather, with replaceable earpads and a headband, a welcome move for longevity. Unfortunately, Loewe hasn’t said whether the battery is user-replaceable, a critical omission for gear that’s meant to last years.

Inside, the Leo boasts 50mm OCE membrane drivers, a Texas Instruments amplifier, and support for Bluetooth Multipoint. The real standout, though, is its compatibility with the LC3+ codec, delivering Hi-Fi streaming at 24-bit/96 kHz, compressed at 500 kbps per channel.

Real-time translation and AI assistant raise the bar

The Leo doesn’t just deliver on sound, it also leans into smart features. A built-in AI voice assistant offers real-time translation, turning the headphones into a communication tool on the go. There’s a catch, though: the translation function requires a €7.99/month subscription after a one-year trial.

Other expected features include:

• Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
• Transparency mode
• Personalized sound via app-based equalizer
• 65-hour battery life

Loewe Leo headphones target elite audio buyers

Loewe clearly isn’t chasing the mainstream. With a €1,299 price tag, the Leo headphones compete directly with ultra-premium models like the B&O Beoplay H100. It’s not just about clean design and solid ANC, it’s about offering a rare mix of Hi-Fi Bluetooth, long battery life, and bleeding-edge extras.

Whether those features justify the price will depend on how much users value features like LC3+ audio or voice translation in their daily listening. One thing’s certain: Loewe is aiming for the top shelf, and they’re not blinking.