Earphones
B&O PLAY Launches Earset
B&O PLAY has launched the new Earset. This device is an evolution of a Bang & Olufsen design icon. Earset comes with state-of-the-art wireless audio technology, world-class Bang & Olufsen Signature Sound and a fresh look for the next generation while preserving the flexible design aspects that led to the success of the original.
In the spirit of the Bang & Olufsen legacy, Earset is crafted from premium materials made to last. The adjustment system on the earphones lets you modify the angle of the earbud, the height of the piston, and the curve of the earhook individually to ensure a perfect fit. Rotating and stretching in three different dimensions. An example of how expert engineering and design go hand in hand to create an object that is as beautiful as it is useful.
The Earset is priced at AED 1,199 and will be available at Bang & Olufsen stores, Virgin Megastore, Harvey Nichols, Jumbo Electronics, Dubai Duty Free, iStyle and selected Etisalat premium lounges from the end of May 2018.
Earbuds
Anker Soundcore AeroFit Pro Review: The Perfect Companion for Outdoor Fitness Enthusiasts
The Anker Soundcore AeroFit Pro is a unique addition to the world of wireless earbuds, designed with a specific audience in mind: outdoor fitness enthusiasts. These open-ear earbuds aim to balance situational awareness and audio quality, making them ideal for activities like running, cycling, and hiking.
Design and Comfort
The AeroFit Pro features an open-ear design, which means the earbuds sit over your ears rather than inside them. This design allows you to hear ambient sounds, which is crucial for safety during outdoor activities. The earbuds are lightweight and have a detachable neckband that ensures they stay in place during intense workouts. The neckband is adjustable, providing a secure fit without causing discomfort.
The earbuds are available in several colours, including Dynamic Black, Aqua Blue, Electric Purple, and Frost White, catering to different style preferences. The build quality is robust, with an IPX5 rating for water and sweat resistance, making them suitable for various weather conditions.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, the AeroFit Pro offers a mixed experience. The open-ear design naturally limits the bass response, which might disappoint those who prefer a deep, immersive sound. However, the earbuds provide a wide stereo image and clear mids and highs. The sound is transparent and natural, allowing you to enjoy your music while staying aware of your surroundings.
The AeroFit Pro supports the LDAC codec, which enhances audio quality over Bluetooth. The Soundcore app offers customizable EQ settings, allowing you to tweak the sound profile to your liking. However, the preset EQs are not very powerful, and the custom EQ might not satisfy audiophiles looking for a rich, full-bodied sound.
Battery Life
One of the standout features of the AeroFit Pro is its impressive battery life. The earbuds themselves offer up to 10 hours of playback on a single charge, and the charging case provides an additional 38 hours, totalling up to 48 hours of use. This extended battery life ensures that you won’t have to worry about frequent recharging, even during long outdoor activities.
The charging case is compact and easy to carry, although it does not have an IPX rating, so you’ll need to be cautious about exposing it to water or sweat. The case charges via USB-C, which is a convenient feature.
Connectivity and Controls
The AeroFit Pro offers reliable connectivity with Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring a stable connection with minimal dropouts. Pairing the earbuds with your device is straightforward, and they maintain a strong connection even in busy environments.
However, the control options on the earbuds are somewhat limited. There are no on-ear controls for adjusting the volume or skipping tracks, which means you’ll need to rely on your device or the Soundcore app for these functions. This can be inconvenient, especially during workouts when you might not want to reach for your phone.
Additional Features
The AeroFit Pro comes with a few additional features that enhance its usability. The detachable neckband is a thoughtful addition, providing extra security during vigorous activities. The earbuds also come with a magnetic clasp that helps keep them together when not in use, reducing the risk of losing them.
The Soundcore app is a valuable companion, offering firmware updates, customisable EQ settings, and other useful features. The app is user-friendly and adds to the overall experience of using the AeroFit Pro.
Performance in Different Scenarios
The AeroFit Pro is designed primarily for outdoor fitness activities, and it performs exceptionally well in this context. The open-ear design allows you to stay aware of your surroundings, which is crucial for safety. The secure fit and water-resistant build make them suitable for running, cycling, and other outdoor sports.
However, the earbuds might not be the best choice for indoor use or environments where you want to block out external noise. The open design means that ambient sounds will always be present, which can be distracting in certain situations.
Verdict
The Anker Soundcore AeroFit Pro is a well-designed pair of open-ear earbuds that cater specifically to outdoor fitness enthusiasts. While they may not offer the deep bass and immersive sound that some users crave, they excel in providing situational awareness and comfort during workouts. The impressive battery life, customizable EQ, and reliable connectivity make them a solid choice for those who prioritize safety and convenience over audio fidelity.
If you’re looking for earbuds that allow you to stay aware of your surroundings while enjoying your favourite tunes, the AeroFit Pro is worth considering.
Price: AED 418
Anker Soundcore AeroFit Pro AED 418
Summary
The AeroFit Pro comes with a few additional features that enhance its usability. The detachable neckband is a thoughtful addition, providing extra security during vigorous activities.
User Review
( votes)Audio Devices
OneOdio’s OpenRock X Earbuds Arrive with BassDirect
OneOdio has announced the launch of OpenRock X, an open-ear headphone. Aimed at fitness enthusiasts and audiophiles alike, these advanced earbuds blend exceptional sound quality with state-of-the-art design, offering a seamless blend of performance, comfort, and safety for all sporting activities. The OpenRock X is available for $179.99 and can now be purchased worldwide from the OpenRock website.
At the heart of the OpenRock X is its custom dynamic driver. This 14.2 mm long-stroke loudspeaker features a high-quality nanometer bio-fibre and cis-molecular polymer diaphragm. This unique construction ensures extremely low distortion and high resolution, delivering a richer and more delicate sound. Enhancing this setup is a magnetic circuit system with a high-tension 9999 pure copper large black coil and an N45 neodymium magnet, boosting low-frequency density for a powerful auditory experience.
OneOdio’s proprietary BassDirect bass acoustic cavity technology further elevates sound quality by efficiently transmitting energy to the ear canal. This ensures unparalleled bass response and sound leakage prevention, making the OpenRock X stand out among open-ear designs. Equipped with the industry-leading LISO 2.0 algorithm, the OpenRock X has undergone over 200 days of testing and refinement. Supported by HiFi 5 DSP supercomputing, it optimizes sound quality across its full frequency range, ensuring each detail is reproduced with precision.
Understanding the needs of active users, OneOdio has integrated professional sound effects tailored for sports. The Rock Mode enhances deep bass and rhythmic audio, perfect for running, cycling, and HIIT, helping reduce exercise fatigue and boosting performance. Relax Mode offers a natural, comfortable sound ideal for yoga, stretching, and meditation, while Boom Mode maximizes sound pressure levels to deliver powerful music experiences even in noisy environments. Additionally, the Spatial Sound feature, enabled via the app, simulates theatre-like acoustics for an immersive audio experience.
The open-ear design of the OpenRock X ensures the ear canal remains dry and breathable, reducing the risk of otitis. This design also enhances situational awareness, providing a safer workout environment. The unique adjustable biaxial joint, crafted with inspiration from luxury watch brands, ensures ergonomic comfort and stability, customizable to any exercise intensity or ear size. For seamless connectivity, the OpenRock X utilizes Bluetooth 5.3 and supports multipoint connections, allowing effortless switching between devices. The earbuds offer an impressive 48-hour battery life with the charging case and feature fast charging capabilities. With IPX5 water and sweat resistance, the OpenRock X can withstand rigorous workouts.
Safety and user comfort are paramount. The OpenRock X includes a max volume limiter, over-time wear reminders, and adaptive volume control, all adjustable via the app. The four AI noise-cancelling microphones ensure clear communication even in windy conditions. OneOdio’s commitment to quality extends to the design and materials. The earbuds and charging case are crafted from high-strength, corrosion-resistant stainless steel and solid aluminium alloy, respectively. The elegant silver-black and gold-white finishes undergo meticulous processes to achieve a sophisticated appearance. The ear hooks are made from soft, skin-friendly liquid silicone rubber, enhancing comfort during extended use.
Audio Devices
Marshall Launches Major V and Minor IV Headphones
Marshall has introduced two new products in its audio lineup: the Major V on-ear headphones and the Minor IV true wireless earbuds. Both models promise enhancements in sound quality, battery life, and durability. According to Martin Wennberg, Product Manager at Marshall, the new Major V builds on its predecessor’s capabilities, increasing playtime from 80+ to 100+ hours. “We’ve refined every detail for the fifth incarnation of Major, from the sound quality to the iconic design,” Wennberg explains.
The Major V is designed to accommodate the demands of frequent users with its rugged, foldable structure, which facilitates easy transportation. It also features a customizable M-button that interacts with the Marshall Bluetooth app to allow quick access to various functions such as Spotify tap, EQ switching, and voice assistant.
The Minor IV earbuds are tailored for extended wear, offering a comfortable fit and 30+ hours of battery life. These earbuds are designed to deliver high acoustic performance and are customizable through the Marshall app. Additionally, both models support Bluetooth LE Audio, a technology that promises higher audio quality and more reliable streaming, suitable for future multimedia applications.
The Major V is available for pre-order for $149, while the Minor IV is priced at $129. Both models will be available for purchase globally via Marshall’s official website.