The effectiveness of the product varies across different types of productions. It performs well with acoustic music, but in a recent version of “Seventeen” by Sharon Van Etten featuring Norah Jones, there is an excessive emphasis on the kick drum and bass. This results in a loss of vocal detail that is more discernible in higher-end audio equipment.
To address this issue, users can adjust the EQ settings in the Audio Technica Connect App to the Clear Vocal option. The app offers various settings such as Bass Boost, V-Shaped, and Treble Enhance, among others. Additionally, it includes controls for noise canceling and hear-through modes, along with a customizable five-band EQ for those who prefer to fine-tune the sound to their taste.
The app also facilitates software and firmware updates for the headphones, which can be installed within a few minutes when the headphones are paired via Bluetooth. The earbuds are equipped with dual microphones, ensuring clear audio during calls. The noise canceling feature is notably impressive for earbuds in this price range. It effectively blocks out the sound of a bright-sounding mechanical keyboard, as well as HVAC noises. Although the noise cancelation is not on par with top-tier products from Apple, Bose, and Sony, it competes well with most other options under $250.
An unusual feature of these earbuds is the “Soundscape” function within the app, which provides relaxing nature sounds, masking noise for concentration, and sounds for meditation. The necessity of this feature in an earbud control app is questionable.
Overall, this pair of earbuds offers quality sound, durable performance, and the resilience to handle everyday challenges, including occasional misplacement of their charging case. They fit well and boast an exceptional battery life among wireless earbuds. Priced at $150, they present good value for money.
