Audio T Verdict
The DALI IO-8 are premium wireless noise-cancelling headphones designed to bring genuine Hi-Fi performance to home, portable and travel listening.
Their custom-developed 50mm drivers use a free-edge paper-fibre diaphragm derived from DALI's full-size loudspeaker technology. The lightweight yet rigid cone is intended to provide natural tonal balance, clear detail and accurate musical dynamics without relying entirely on electronic processing.
Connectivity is unusually flexible. Bluetooth 5.2 supports AAC, aptX, aptX HD and aptX Adaptive, while USB-C provides high-resolution digital playback at up to 24-bit/96kHz. A conventional 3.5mm input supports both powered analogue listening and completely passive operation when the headphones are switched off.
DALI's active noise-cancellation system provides On, Transparency and Off modes, while Wind Noise Suppression helps reduce interference during outdoor use. Hi-Fi and Bass sound modes offer a choice between DALI's standard balance and a presentation with greater low-frequency emphasis.
Physical ear-cup controls handle volume, playback, calls, voice assistance, sound mode and noise cancellation without requiring a companion application. Bluetooth Dual Mode also allows two compatible devices to remain connected simultaneously.
Battery life is rated at up to 35 hours with noise cancellation disengaged and up to 30 hours with it operating. The headphones can be fully recharged in approximately one hour and 50 minutes.
At 325g, the IO-8 are lighter than the flagship IO-12 while retaining much of their digital platform and versatility. They do not include the IO-12's SMC magnet system or real-leather luxury treatment, but they offer a compelling balance of sound quality, construction, connectivity and everyday practicality.
DALI IO-8 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Hi-Fi Headphones
The DALI IO-8 are closed-back circumaural headphones with Bluetooth, USB-C digital audio, 3.5mm analogue playback and active noise cancellation.
They have been designed using principles developed through DALI's full-size loudspeakers, including a custom paper-fibre diaphragm, carefully controlled driver suspension, rigid ear-cup structure and low-distortion internal amplification.
Each ear cup contains a 50mm full-range driver, while the internal electronics provide Bluetooth decoding, digital-to-analogue conversion, DSP, fully bridged Class D amplification, dual sound modes and three noise-cancellation settings.
A built-in microphone supports hands-free calling and voice assistance, while replaceable ear pads, one-way folding construction and a supplied travel case make the IO-8 suitable for regular portable use.
No Companion App Is Provided
The DALI IO-8 are controlled through physical buttons and do not depend on a smartphone application.
This keeps operation straightforward, but also means that there is no app-based graphic equaliser, custom sound-profile editor or programmable control system.
- No DALI control application is required
- No app-based equaliser
- No user-created sound profiles
- No app-based button reassignment
- No adjustable app-based noise-cancellation levels
The available tonal choices are the fixed Hi-Fi and Bass modes selected directly from the headphones.
True Hi-Fi Performance
DALI designed the IO-8 using many of the same fundamental acoustic principles found in its passive loudspeakers.
Rather than using digital processing to correct an otherwise unsuitable driver, attention has been given to the physical behaviour of the diaphragm, suspension, enclosure and amplification.
The aim is to deliver natural tonal colour, clear low-level information and convincing dynamics across Bluetooth, USB-C and analogue connections.
The final result will still depend on the source, connection method, Bluetooth codec, recording quality, listening level and physical fit.
Custom-Developed 50mm Drivers
Each ear cup contains a custom-developed 50mm full-range dynamic driver.
A large diaphragm can move the required amount of air with relatively modest excursion, helping the headphones reproduce bass and musical dynamics without demanding excessive movement from the cone.
Driver diameter alone does not guarantee performance. The diaphragm, surround, voice coil, magnet system, enclosure and internal electronics must operate together as a complete acoustic system.
Free-Edge Paper-Fibre Diaphragms
The IO-8 driver diaphragms use a paper-fibre material closely related to those developed for DALI loudspeakers.
Randomly aligned fibres of different lengths create a cone intended to combine low mass, stiffness and useful self-damping.
This helps the diaphragm start and stop accurately while reducing the tendency for one narrow area of the cone to dominate the presentation.
DALI describes the intended result as natural and relaxed sound with strong levels of musical detail.
Free-Edge Driver Construction
The driver diaphragm uses a free-edge design rather than attaching the cone to a conventional wide roll surround.
This arrangement allows the diaphragm to move with low mechanical resistance while maintaining the control required for consistent bass, midrange and treble reproduction.
Low-loss movement is particularly important when reproducing small changes in level and low-frequency information at quieter listening volumes.
Fully Bridged Class D Amplification
The internal amplifier uses a fully bridged, or Bridge-Tied Load, Class D output stage.
The amplifier drives each 50mm unit directly when the IO-8 are used through Bluetooth, USB-C or powered analogue mode.
A bridged arrangement allows the amplifier to apply a larger voltage swing across the driver from a battery-powered supply.
The complete active system also includes digital-to-analogue conversion, signal processing, noise cancellation and the chosen sound profile.
Hi-Res Audio Certified
The IO-8 are Hi-Res Audio certified and support digital audio from 16-bit to 24-bit resolution.
Compatible sample rates include 32kHz, 44.1kHz, 48kHz and 96kHz.
The internal processing platform operates at 48kHz, which corresponds with many Bluetooth aptX Adaptive and USB audio sources.
USB audio at up to 96kHz is supported with a full 48kHz audio bandwidth and without downsampling the incoming 96kHz signal.
Four Connection Modes
The IO-8 provide four different connection modes, allowing the headphones to adapt to home, office, portable and travel use.
Wireless Active Mode
Bluetooth provides cable-free playback from a compatible phone, tablet, computer or portable music player.
Internal amplification, DSP, noise cancellation, sound modes, controls, calls and voice assistance remain available.
Wired Active USB Mode
USB-C carries digital audio from a compatible computer or other USB audio source.
Internal amplification, DSP, noise cancellation, physical controls and sound modes remain available.
Analogue Wired Active Mode
The headphones remain switched on while receiving sound through the supplied 3.5mm cable.
Internal amplification, DSP, noise cancellation and the Hi-Fi or Bass sound modes remain available.
Analogue Wired Passive Mode
The headphones are switched off and driven directly from a conventional headphone output or headphone amplifier.
Noise cancellation, DSP, active controls and sound modes are unavailable in this mode.
Bluetooth 5.2 Connectivity
Bluetooth 5.2 provides wireless playback from compatible phones, tablets, computers and portable music players.
Wireless performance depends on the transmitting device, chosen codec, distance, surrounding radio traffic and any walls or physical obstructions between the source and headphones.
The headphones remember up to four previously connected Bluetooth devices and attempt to reconnect to the most recently used available source when switched on.
AAC, aptX, aptX HD and aptX Adaptive
The supported Bluetooth audio codecs are:
- AAC
- aptX
- aptX HD
- aptX Adaptive
AAC is commonly used by Apple devices, while aptX-family codecs are available on many compatible Android phones, computers and dedicated portable players.
aptX Adaptive can alter its transmission behaviour according to the source material and surrounding wireless conditions, provided that the transmitting device also supports the codec.
The Source Determines the Bluetooth Codec
The IO-8 cannot force a phone, tablet or computer to use a codec that the transmitting device does not support.
Check the specifications and Bluetooth settings of the source where a particular codec is required.
Bluetooth Dual Mode
Bluetooth Dual Mode allows two compatible source devices to remain connected to the IO-8 simultaneously.
This can be useful when moving between a computer and phone without disconnecting and repairing the headphones each time.
For example, the IO-8 can remain connected to a computer for music while also being available for an incoming call from a smartphone.
Only one source can provide the active audio stream at a time.
USB-C Digital Audio
The USB-C connection can carry digital audio from a compatible computer as well as charge the internal battery.
The IO-8 appear as a USB audio output device when connected to a suitable laptop or desktop computer.
Digital playback is supported at up to 24-bit/96kHz, allowing the internal digital-to-analogue conversion and amplification to operate without Bluetooth transmission.
DALI describes USB as the connection mode likely to provide the best sound quality because it avoids additional wireless processing and potential transmission errors.
Use a Data-Capable USB Cable
A charging-only USB cable cannot carry digital audio.
Use the supplied USB-C cable or another suitable data-capable cable, and select the DALI IO-8 as the output device within the computer's sound settings.
USB Audio Priority
Bluetooth and 3.5mm analogue playback take priority over USB audio.
If Bluetooth audio begins while a USB source is playing, the USB stream is muted.
Inserting the 3.5mm analogue cable also takes priority over Bluetooth or USB playback.
This behaviour allows the headphones to change between connected sources without requiring every cable or wireless connection to be removed.
3.5mm Analogue Connection
A conventional 3.5mm input allows the IO-8 to connect to a headphone amplifier, Hi-Fi component, portable music player, in-flight entertainment system or another compatible analogue source.
The passive input impedance is specified at 25 ohms.
The supplied 1.2m cable is suitable for portable listening and for equipment positioned reasonably close to the listener.
Products fitted only with a full-size 6.35mm headphone output require a suitable adaptor, which is not listed as part of the standard IO-8 package.
Powered Analogue Listening
When the IO-8 are switched on while connected through the 3.5mm input, the internal amplifier, digital processing, noise cancellation and sound modes remain available.
This can be useful with an analogue source where active noise cancellation is still required, including some in-flight entertainment systems.
Volume in analogue wired mode is normally controlled by the connected source rather than the headphone buttons.
Passive Analogue Listening
The IO-8 can operate completely passively through the 3.5mm connection while switched off.
This allows a conventional external headphone amplifier to drive the 50mm drivers directly and means that listening can continue if the battery is exhausted.
Active noise cancellation, DSP, sound modes, voice assistance and ear-cup controls are unavailable in passive mode.
Sound level and performance will depend on the output capability and quality of the connected source.
Begin at a Low Volume
Different headphone amplifiers and source components can produce substantially different output levels.
Reduce the source volume before connecting the IO-8, then increase it gradually to a comfortable listening level.
Audiophile Active Noise Cancellation
DALI's active noise-cancellation system is intended to reduce distracting background sound without unnecessarily changing the tonal balance of the music.
Microphones monitor external noise and the internal electronics generate a corresponding signal intended to reduce the unwanted sound reaching the listener.
Active cancellation is generally most effective against continuous low-frequency noise such as aircraft cabins, engines, ventilation systems and the background rumble of public transport.
Sudden voices and irregular higher-frequency sounds may still remain audible.
Three Noise-Cancellation Modes
The IO-8 provide three operating modes:
- Active noise cancellation on
- Transparency mode
- Active noise cancellation off
A physical button on the right ear cup cycles through the available options.
Active noise cancellation and Transparency mode are available during Bluetooth, USB and powered analogue operation, but not in passive mode.
Noise Cancellation Does Not Block Everything
Active noise cancellation reduces external sound but does not create complete silence.
Remain aware of announcements, traffic, alarms and other safety-critical sounds when using the headphones away from home.
Transparency Mode
Transparency mode deliberately admits surrounding sound through the external microphones.
This can make it easier to hear announcements, speak to another person or remain aware of the surrounding environment without removing the headphones.
The result is electronically reproduced ambient sound rather than the completely natural openness of wearing no headphones.
Wind Noise Suppression
Wind Noise Suppression is designed to reduce the interference created when moving air reaches the external headphone microphones.
This can improve active and transparency-mode operation while walking outdoors or using the IO-8 in other breezy conditions.
Strong wind can still remain audible, particularly when it reaches the microphones from an exposed angle.
Hi-Fi and Bass Sound Modes
Two built-in sound profiles allow the presentation to be adjusted directly from the headphones.
Hi-Fi Mode
Hi-Fi mode follows the frequency balance of the incoming audio signal and provides DALI's standard tuning.
It is the logical starting point for critical listening and comparison with a conventional Hi-Fi headphone system.
Bass Mode
Bass mode adds greater low-frequency emphasis for listeners who prefer a fuller and more forceful presentation.
It can also compensate for reduced bass when glasses prevent the ear pads from forming a complete seal.
The sound modes are available during Bluetooth, USB and powered analogue operation, but not when the headphones are used passively.
No App Required
Power, Bluetooth pairing, volume, playback, calls, voice assistance, sound mode and noise cancellation are controlled through physical buttons on the headphones.
This avoids the need to unlock a phone or open an application for routine operation.
Voice prompts and status LEDs provide information about connection, operating mode and remaining battery level.
The deliberately simple system may appeal to listeners who value direct controls over software menus.
Integrated Playback Controls
The circular control area on the right ear cup provides access to the main Bluetooth and USB playback functions.
- Press once to play or pause music
- Press once to answer or end a phone call
- Press twice to skip to the next track
- Press three times to return to the previous track
- Press and hold to activate a compatible voice assistant
- Press the upper outer ring to increase volume
- Press the lower outer ring to decrease volume
Available playback functions can depend on the connected source, operating system and music application.
Voice Assistant Support
Pressing and holding the central control button can activate a compatible smartphone voice assistant.
DALI gives Siri and Google Assistant as examples.
The feature depends on the connected Bluetooth device and its voice-assistant settings.
Voice assistance is not available through every wired connection mode.
Hands-Free Calling
An integrated microphone allows the IO-8 to be used for compatible mobile calls and online communication.
Updated Clear Voice Communication processing is intended to improve speech intelligibility during hands-free use.
Call quality will still depend on the connected device, mobile or internet connection, surrounding wind and background noise.
A dedicated external microphone may remain preferable for professional broadcasting, recording or intensive office use.
Up to 35 Hours of Battery Life
The internal rechargeable battery provides up to 35 hours of playback with active noise cancellation disengaged.
With noise cancellation operating, DALI specifies up to 30 hours of playback.
This is intended to cover several days of typical commuting or extended long-distance travel without requiring daily charging.
Actual battery life varies according to volume, Bluetooth use, noise cancellation, calls, connection method, battery age and ambient temperature.
Battery Charging
DALI specifies a complete charging time of approximately one hour and 50 minutes.
The USB-C connection is used for charging, with a 1.2m USB-C cable included in the package.
A suitable phone charger or a computer USB socket providing adequate power can be used.
The battery indicator flashes amber while charging and shows solid green once the battery is full.
Battery-Level Information
The battery indicator changes from green through orange to red as the remaining charge decreases.
A voice prompt reports the battery level when the headphones are switched on and warns when the remaining charge becomes critically low.
Automatic Power-Off
The IO-8 can switch off automatically after 20 minutes without audio playback.
Automatic power-off applies when no 3.5mm cable is connected and active noise cancellation is disengaged.
This helps preserve battery charge if the headphones are left switched on accidentally.
Premium Durable Materials
The IO-8 use a lightweight adjustable headband, textile surface materials and generously padded circumaural ear cushions.
The construction is intended to provide a secure fit while distributing pressure around the ears during longer listening sessions.
Personal comfort will depend on head shape, ear size, glasses and sensitivity to clamping pressure.
Anyone planning extended listening sessions should arrange a demonstration rather than relying on specifications alone.
Replaceable Ear Pads
The IO-8 ear pads can be removed for cleaning or replacement.
They use a bayonet fitting and are removed by rotating each cushion anticlockwise before lifting it away from the cup.
Replacement pads should be installed in the correct left and right positions and rotated fully clockwise until they click twice into place.
Fit Replacement Ear Pads Correctly
Incorrectly installed ear pads can affect the acoustic seal, bass response and noise-cancellation performance.
Use the correct DALI replacement parts and confirm that each pad is fully locked into position.
325g Weight
The IO-8 weigh 325g.
This makes them 45g lighter than the flagship IO-12 and reasonably manageable for a premium wireless over-ear design.
Weight distribution and headband design are as important as the figure itself, so listeners who are sensitive to headphone pressure should still try them before buying.
One-Way Folding Construction
The ear cups fold in one direction to create a flatter shape for storage.
This helps the IO-8 fit inside their supplied travel case while protecting the hinges and ear pads from unnecessary compression.
Do not force the cups beyond their intended range of movement.
IP52 Protection Rating
The IO-8 carry an IP52 protection rating.
This provides a degree of protection against dust and limited moisture exposure during normal portable use.
Not Waterproof
An IP52 rating does not make the IO-8 suitable for immersion, heavy rain, showering or swimming.
Keep the headphones, 3.5mm connection and USB-C socket dry, and allow any moisture to clear before connecting cables or charging.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Clean the external surfaces with a soft, lint-free cloth.
A slightly damp cloth may be used for stubborn marks, but the headphones must not be allowed to become wet.
Abrasive cleaners and solvent-based products should not be used.
Store the IO-8 in their travel case away from excessive heat, direct sunlight and prolonged pressure on the ear pads.
Restart and Factory Reset
A recessed restart button is provided on the right ear cup if the headphones begin to behave unexpectedly.
Holding the button for approximately three seconds restarts the IO-8 without deleting remembered Bluetooth devices.
A separate factory-reset procedure returns the headphones to their original configuration and removes stored Bluetooth pairings.
Consult the supplied instructions before carrying out a factory reset.
Supplied Travel Case
A fitted travel case is included to protect the IO-8 and organise their supplied cables.
The case is particularly useful when the headphones are carried inside luggage, where exposed ear cups and hinges could otherwise be damaged by other items.
The headphones should be stored clean and dry with their cups folded in the intended direction.
IO-8 or IO-12?
Choose the IO-8 When
- You want the more affordable current DALI headphone
- You require aptX Adaptive and 24-bit/96kHz USB audio
- You want active and passive analogue listening
- Three noise-cancellation modes are required
- Hi-Fi and Bass sound modes are useful
- A lower 325g weight is preferable
- Value and portability take priority over flagship materials
Choose the IO-12 When
- You want DALI's flagship wireless headphone
- SMC magnet technology is important
- You want the wider 10Hz to 48kHz frequency range
- Real-leather ear pads and headband are preferred
- You want the more luxurious construction
- You are comfortable with the higher 370g weight
- Your system and listening justify the additional price
The DALI IO-12 wireless headphones add the company's patented SMC magnet system, more luxurious materials and a higher-level driver implementation.
Both models support Bluetooth 5.2, aptX Adaptive, USB-C digital audio, powered and passive analogue playback, dual sound modes and up to 35 hours of battery operation.
IO-8 or IO-6?
Choose the IO-8 When
- You want DALI's current premium wireless platform
- aptX Adaptive support is required
- You want playback up to 24-bit/96kHz
- Bluetooth Dual Mode is useful
- You want up to 35 hours of battery life
- Hi-Fi and Bass sound modes are important
- A lighter design than the IO-12 is preferred
Consider the IO-6 When
- You want a less expensive DALI noise-cancelling headphone
- Bluetooth 5.0 meets your requirements
- AAC, aptX and aptX HD provide sufficient codec support
- Up to 30 hours of playback is sufficient
- You do not require aptX Adaptive
- You want a straightforward established DALI design
- Remaining or clearance stock provides better value
The IO-6 is an older DALI design with a 50mm paper-fibre driver, Bluetooth 5.0, active noise cancellation and up to 30 hours of battery life.
The IO-8 provides the newer digital platform, aptX Adaptive, higher USB resolution, dual sound profiles and longer maximum battery operation.
System Matching
Well Suited To
- Premium wireless music listening
- Compatible Android phones using aptX codecs
- Apple devices using AAC
- Computers with Bluetooth or USB audio
- High-resolution USB-C playback
- Traditional wired headphone amplifiers
- Portable music players
- Home Hi-Fi systems with headphone outputs
- Commuting and long-distance travel
- Private listening in shared rooms
- Hands-free calls and voice assistance
Check Before Buying
- No companion control application
- No app-based equaliser
- Only Hi-Fi and Bass sound modes are provided
- LDAC is not listed as supported
- Bluetooth codec depends on the transmitting device
- USB source compatibility must be confirmed
- Active functions are unavailable in passive mode
- Active noise cancellation does not block every sound
- Closed-back sound differs from open-back headphones
- IP52 does not make the headphones waterproof
- Personal comfort and fit should be tested
Connection Guidance
- Charge the IO-8 before extended first use.
- Place the source device close to the headphones during initial Bluetooth pairing.
- Check the source specifications where a particular Bluetooth codec is required.
- Use Bluetooth Dual Mode where a phone and computer must remain connected.
- Use the supplied data-capable USB-C cable for computer audio.
- Select the DALI IO-8 within the computer's audio-output settings.
- Connect the 3.5mm cable with the headphones switched on for active analogue listening.
- Switch the headphones off for completely passive analogue operation.
- Reduce the source volume before making an analogue connection.
- Use Transparency mode where awareness of the surroundings is required.
- Keep the USB-C and analogue connections dry.
- Store the headphones in the supplied travel case when not in use.
- Replace worn ear pads with the correct DALI parts.
Finish Options
Iron Black
Iron Black provides a restrained dark finish with subtle metallic details and coordinated textile surfaces.
It gives the IO-8 a discreet appearance suited to home, office and portable use.
Caramel White
Caramel White combines a lighter main finish with warm contrasting details for a more distinctive appearance.
Both finishes use the same drivers, electronics, controls, battery and supplied accessories.
Finish availability may vary. Confirm the required colour when ordering.
DALI Products and Audio T Headphone Guides
These Audio T links provide useful comparisons and further guidance on DALI products, wireless headphones and personal listening systems.
Key Features
- Premium wireless Hi-Fi headphones
- Closed-back circumaural construction
- Over-ear fit
- Custom-developed 50mm dynamic drivers
- Free-edge paper-fibre diaphragms
- DALI loudspeaker-derived driver technology
- Fully bridged Class D output stage
- Hi-Res Audio certified
- Frequency range from 10Hz to 43kHz
- 25-ohm passive impedance
- 93dB passive sensitivity at 1mW
- Bluetooth 5.2
- AAC codec support
- aptX codec support
- aptX HD codec support
- aptX Adaptive codec support
- Bluetooth Dual Mode
- Simultaneous connection to two Bluetooth sources
- Memory for four Bluetooth devices
- USB-C digital-audio playback
- 16-bit and 24-bit digital audio
- 32kHz digital-audio support
- 44.1kHz digital-audio support
- 48kHz digital-audio support
- 96kHz USB audio support
- 3.5mm analogue input
- Powered analogue operation
- Passive analogue operation
- Four connection modes
- Audiophile Active Noise Cancellation
- Noise cancellation on mode
- Transparency mode
- Noise cancellation off mode
- Wind Noise Suppression
- Hi-Fi sound mode
- Bass sound mode
- Physical ear-cup controls
- Power control
- Bluetooth pairing control
- Volume control
- Play and pause control
- Track-selection control
- Call-answering control
- Voice-assistant control
- No companion app required
- Built-in microphone
- Updated Clear Voice Communication
- Hands-free calling
- Up to 35 hours of battery playback
- Up to 30 hours with ANC operating
- Approximately one-hour-and-50-minute charging time
- Battery-level LEDs
- Battery-level voice prompts
- Automatic power-off
- Adjustable lightweight headband
- Padded circumaural ear cushions
- Replaceable ear pads
- One-way folding construction
- IP52 protection rating
- 325g weight
- Iron Black finish
- Caramel White finish
- Supplied travel case
- Supplied 1.2m USB-C cable
- Supplied 1.2m analogue cable
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the DALI IO-8?
They are premium closed-back wireless headphones with active noise cancellation, Bluetooth, USB-C digital audio and powered or passive 3.5mm playback.
Are they over-ear headphones?
Yes. They use a circumaural design, with the cushions intended to sit around the ears.
Are they open-back or closed-back?
They are closed-back headphones.
What size are the drivers?
Each ear cup contains a custom-developed 50mm full-range dynamic driver.
What are the diaphragms made from?
They use free-edge paper-fibre diaphragms derived from DALI's full-size loudspeaker technology.
Do they contain DALI SMC technology?
No. The SMC-based magnet system is reserved for the flagship DALI IO-12.
What type of internal amplifier do they use?
The internal amplifier uses a fully bridged Class D output stage.
What is the frequency range?
DALI specifies a frequency range of 10Hz to 43kHz.
What is the passive impedance?
The 3.5mm analogue input is specified at 25 ohms in passive mode.
Are they Hi-Res Audio certified?
Yes.
Do they support Bluetooth?
Yes. They use Bluetooth 5.2.
Which Bluetooth codecs are supported?
AAC, aptX, aptX HD and aptX Adaptive are supported.
Do they support LDAC?
LDAC is not included in DALI's published list of supported codecs.
Will aptX Adaptive work with an iPhone?
The transmitting device must support aptX Adaptive. Apple devices normally use AAC for Bluetooth audio.
Can they connect to two Bluetooth devices?
Yes. Bluetooth Dual Mode allows two compatible devices to remain connected simultaneously.
How many Bluetooth devices can they remember?
They remember up to four previously connected devices.
Can I connect them by USB-C?
Yes. USB-C can be used for compatible computer audio and battery charging.
What is the maximum USB-C resolution?
Compatible digital audio is supported at up to 24-bit/96kHz.
Can I use them with a computer?
Yes. A compatible computer can connect through Bluetooth, USB-C digital audio or a 3.5mm analogue headphone output.
Can I use them with a phone?
Yes. Compatible phones can connect through Bluetooth. USB audio support from a phone depends on the device and cable.
Can they connect to a traditional Hi-Fi system?
Yes. Use the 3.5mm analogue connection with a suitable headphone output or headphone amplifier.
Can they operate passively?
Yes. They can be driven passively through the 3.5mm input while switched off.
Can I use noise cancellation with an analogue cable?
Yes, provided the headphones are switched on and operating in powered analogue mode.
Does noise cancellation work in passive mode?
No. Noise cancellation, DSP and sound modes are unavailable while the headphones are switched off.
Do they have active noise cancellation?
Yes. DALI's Audiophile Active Noise Cancellation system is built in.
How many noise-cancellation modes are provided?
Three modes are available: noise cancellation on, Transparency and noise cancellation off.
What is Transparency mode?
It uses the external microphones to admit surrounding sound, making it easier to hear announcements or speak to another person.
Does active noise cancellation block every sound?
No. It is most effective against continuous background noise and does not create complete silence.
Do they include wind-noise reduction?
Yes. Wind Noise Suppression is listed among the IO-8's features.
How many sound modes are provided?
Two: Hi-Fi and Bass.
What does Hi-Fi mode do?
It follows the frequency balance of the incoming signal and provides DALI's standard tuning.
What does Bass mode do?
It adds greater low-frequency emphasis and can compensate when glasses interfere with the ear-pad seal.
Is there a DALI control app?
No companion application is required or provided for routine IO-8 operation.
Can I create a custom equaliser setting?
No. The available sound choices are the fixed Hi-Fi and Bass modes.
Are the controls physical buttons?
Yes. Power, pairing, volume, playback, calls, voice assistance, sound mode and noise cancellation are controlled from the headphones.
Do they support a voice assistant?
Yes. A compatible smartphone assistant can be activated through the central ear-cup control.
Do they have a microphone?
Yes. A built-in microphone supports hands-free calls and compatible voice assistance.
How long does the battery last?
DALI specifies up to 35 hours with noise cancellation disengaged and up to 30 hours with it operating.
How long do they take to charge?
DALI specifies approximately one hour and 50 minutes for a complete charge.
Can I check the remaining battery level?
Yes. Battery-level LEDs and voice prompts provide charge information.
Do they switch off automatically?
Yes. They can switch off after 20 minutes without playback when no analogue cable is connected and noise cancellation is disengaged.
Are the ear pads replaceable?
Yes. The bayonet-mounted ear pads can be removed for cleaning or replacement.
Can they be folded?
Yes. They use a one-way folding design for compact storage.
How much do they weigh?
They weigh 325g.
Are they waterproof?
No. They carry an IP52 rating but are not suitable for immersion, showering, swimming or heavy rain.
Is a travel case included?
Yes. A fitted travel case is supplied.
Which cables are included?
The package includes a 1.2m USB-C cable and a 1.2m 3.5mm stereo cable.
Is a 6.35mm headphone adaptor included?
A 6.35mm adaptor is not listed among the official supplied IO-8 accessories.
Which finishes are available?
Iron Black and Caramel White are available, subject to stock.
Should I choose the IO-8 or IO-12?
Choose the IO-8 for lower weight and a more accessible price while retaining much of the same digital platform. Choose the IO-12 for its SMC driver system, wider frequency range and more luxurious construction.
Should I choose the IO-8 or IO-6?
Choose the IO-8 for aptX Adaptive, Bluetooth Dual Mode, 24-bit/96kHz USB audio, dual sound modes and longer maximum battery operation.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Personal demonstrations before purchase
- Direct comparison with competing wireless headphones
- Advice choosing between the DALI IO-8 and IO-12
- Help comparing closed-back and open-back headphones
- Bluetooth codec and source-compatibility guidance
- Bluetooth Dual Mode setup
- USB-C digital-audio setup
- Active and passive analogue connection guidance
- Headphone-amplifier matching
- Portable music-player connection advice
- Active noise-cancellation demonstrations
- Headphone comfort and fit assessment
- Guidance for glasses wearers
- Replacement ear-pad advice
- Part exchange may be available on suitable existing equipment
- Ongoing connection and setup support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss using the DALI IO-8 with your phone, computer, portable player or home Hi-Fi system.