Tag: open-ear headphones

  • Grell OAE2 Open-Ear Headphones with Angled Transducers Launched Worldwide

    Grell OAE2 Open-Ear Headphones with Angled Transducers Launched Worldwide

    Key Takeaway

    1. The Grell OAE2 headphones use angled drivers and FSFM technology to recreate the sound experience of listening to live performances, making sound appear to come from in front of the listener.
    2. Designed by former Sennheiser engineer Axel Grell, the headphones feature bio-cellulose diaphragms with a broad frequency response of 12 Hz to 34 kHz.
    3. Priced at $499, the headphones are available globally through select retailers, offering both unbalanced and balanced connection options.

    Introduction to Grell OAE2

    the Grell OAE2 open-ear headphones now can be bought in almost any part of the world after their release in Germany. Designed be Axel Grell, who used to work for Sennheiser, these headphones feature angled drivers specially made to make sound seem like its coming from the front of the listener. They cost $499 and can be bought from sellers like Grell, Bloom Audio, and Audio46.

    Headphone Design and Sound Experience

    Most traditional headphones have drivers right next to the ears, which is fine but doesn’t truly capture what it’s like to be in the middle of a live performance. For decades, headphones have tried to produce premium sound, but they don’t recreate the feeling of sounds coming from a stage or space in front of you, interacting with your outer ears first before hitting your inner ear.

    Innovative Technology: FSFM

    The company says its special technology called Front-sided Sound Field Modulation, or FSFM, helps with this issue. It uses 40 mm angled transducers so sounds can be experienced as if they are happening in front of you. According to Axel Grell, this gives the headphones a more natural feel. An interview with Axel reveals how they engineered these headphones to do this, making the sound more lifelike and immersive.

    Technical Specs and Build

    These headphones, weighing about 378 grams or 13.3 oz., are made in Germany. They have bio-cellulose diaphragms capable of covering a frequency range from 12 Hz to 34 kHz, with a low Total Harmonic Distortion of 0.05% at 1 kHz. They come inclusive of both 3.5 mm unbalanced and 4.4 mm balanced cables, which makes them compatible with various audio sources.


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  • Shokz OpenFit Pro: First Open-Ear Earbuds with Noise Reduction

    Shokz OpenFit Pro: First Open-Ear Earbuds with Noise Reduction

    Key Takeaways

    1. Shokz introduced the OpenFit Pro, their first open-ear headphones with active noise reduction, priced at $180.
    2. The OpenFit Pro features a new synchronized dual-diaphragm driver system and Shokz’ SuperBoost technology for enhanced sound clarity.
    3. The earbuds support Dolby Atmos with head tracking and customizable sound settings through the Shokz app, including noise reduction adjustments.
    4. Designed for comfort, the OpenFit Pro has a lightweight build, impressive battery life of up to 12 hours, and quick charging capabilities.
    5. Additional features include waterproof buttons, automatic wear detection, multipoint Bluetooth pairing, and an IP55 water and sweat resistance rating.

    Shokz is a brand known for making audio products that focus on open-ear headphones and earbuds. They don’t block the ear canal, allowing users to stay aware of their surroundings. Recently, the company introduced the OpenFit Pro, which is their new top-of-the-line model for true wireless open-ear headphones. This is the first time Shokz has combined an open-ear design with active noise reduction, a feature missing in the earlier OpenFit and OpenFit 2 models, which are currently available for $180 on Amazon.

    New Technology in Sound

    The OpenFit Pro boasts a new synchronized dual-diaphragm driver system, enhanced by Shokz’ SuperBoost technology. This innovative design incorporates two large diaphragms that work together to enhance sound clarity across various frequencies. According to Shokz, they use a PMI aluminum dome to ensure structural integrity and a silicone diaphragm aimed at minimizing distortion while providing a stronger low-end response.

    Enhanced Listening Experience

    These earbuds are fine-tuned for Dolby Atmos with head tracking capabilities, allowing for immersive spatial audio without blocking the ears. Users can tweak sound settings through the Shokz app, which features five preset EQ options and two customizable profiles. The noise reduction feature is managed by a triple-microphone system along with an ear-canal adaptive algorithm that actively monitors outside and internal sounds. The app lets users manually adjust the noise reduction levels, enabling a shift between more immersive listening experiences and heightened awareness of the environment, depending on their needs.

    Comfortable and Long-Lasting

    The OpenFit Pro comes with a unibody design, featuring a flexible nickel-titanium ear hook and a soft silicone finish for comfort over prolonged use. Each earbud weighs a light 12.3 grams. The battery life is impressive, rated at up to 12 hours per charge without noise reduction and up to 6 hours with it active, plus a total of 50 hours when using the charging case. Fast charging can provide up to 4 hours of playback from just a 10-minute charge, and it also supports wireless charging.

    Additional Features

    Other notable features include waterproof physical buttons, automatic wear detection, multipoint Bluetooth pairing, Bluetooth 6.1 compatibility, and an IP55 rating for resistance against water and sweat.

    The OpenFit Pro will come in black and white and will be priced at €249 (around $292), with preorders set to begin on January 6, 2026.

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  • NTT Sonority Launches nwm ONE Star Wars Open-Ear Headphones

    NTT Sonority Launches nwm ONE Star Wars Open-Ear Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. NTT Sonority launched special nwm ONE Star Wars open-ear wireless headphones for the 50th anniversary of the first film, priced at 44,000 yen (approx. $300).
    2. Preorders start on May 1, 2025, with official sales beginning on May 28, and the headphones will be featured at the Osaka Comic Convention from May 2-4.
    3. The limited-edition headphones include sound effects from Star Wars films, such as TIE Fighter lasers and X-wing startup sounds.
    4. Users can choose between two designs: an X-wing in white or a TIE Fighter in black, and the package features the Millennium Falcon and Death Star artwork.
    5. The headphones have an open-ear design for safety, active noise-leakage suppression, dual drivers for surround sound, and technology for clear vocal communication during calls.

    NTT Sonority has revealed special nwm ONE Star Wars open-ear wireless headphones to mark the 50th anniversary of the first film. These headphones are priced at 44,000 yen (approximately $300). Customers can start preordering on May 1, with the official sales commencing on May 28. Additionally, these headphones will be showcased at the Osaka Comic Convention 2025, taking place from May 2 to May 4.

    Unique Features

    The limited-edition nwm ONE headphones incorporate sound effects from the Star Wars films to enhance user experience. Users can hear iconic sounds like a TIE Fighter shooting its lasers and the startup of an X-wing Starfighter. The headphones display the Star Wars logo along with the choice of an X-wing (in white) or TIE Fighter (in black). Furthermore, a headphone stand featuring the Death Star is also provided. The packaging is visually striking, featuring the Millennium Falcon on the front and the Death Star on the back.

    Enhanced Listening Experience

    With an open-ear design, the nwm ONE headphones ensure that users remain aware of their surroundings while utilizing active noise-leakage suppression to avoid disturbing others. Each ear features dual drivers, consisting of a 35mm main unit and a 12 mm tweeter, which enables Sony 360 Reality Audio for a rich surround-sound experience. Furthermore, the dual MEMS Magic Focus Voice technology helps minimize background noise, allowing for clear vocal communication during outdoor calls.

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    NTT Sonority Launches nwm ONE Star Wars Open-Ear HeadphonesNTT Sonority Launches nwm ONE Star Wars Open-Ear HeadphonesNTT Sonority Launches nwm ONE Star Wars Open-Ear Headphones
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  • Anker Soundcore AeroClip Wireless Headphones Now Available

    Anker Soundcore AeroClip Wireless Headphones Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Soundcore AeroClip headphones are priced at $129 and are primarily available on Amazon US, with limited availability in Europe.
    2. They feature an open-ear design and include four microphones to reduce background noise during calls, but do not have active noise cancellation.
    3. The headphones offer a battery life of 8 hours, extendable to 32 hours with the charging case.
    4. They have an IPX4 rating, making them resistant to sweat and water.
    5. The PearlClip Pro is a more affordable alternative at $39, offering a similar design.

    The Soundcore AeroClip are the latest headphones from Anker, now available on Amazon US for $129. Sadly, they aren’t widely sold in several European nations, so people there might need to import them using a Chinese marketplace like Banggood. Be aware that this could lead to extra import fees or taxes, and there might be issues with warranty claims.

    Design and Features

    The Soundcore AeroClip features open-ear design, meaning they don’t go deep into the ear canal but instead wrap around the outer ear. With four microphones built-in, these headphones aim to minimize annoying background noise when you’re on a call. They house 12mm drivers but lack active noise cancellation capabilities.

    Battery and Durability

    The official battery life is stated to be 8 hours, but it can be increased by another 24 hours thanks to the charging case that comes with it. Anker also boasts an IPX4 rating, indicating these headphones are resistant to sweat and water. If you are looking for alternatives, the PearlClip Pro offers a similar design and is much more affordable at only $39 on Amazon.

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    Anker Soundcore AeroClip Wireless Headphones Now AvailableAnker Soundcore AeroClip Wireless Headphones Now Available
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  • Audio-Technica Unveils Second-Gen Open-Ear Cartilage Headphones

    Audio-Technica Unveils Second-Gen Open-Ear Cartilage Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Cartilage Conduction Technology: The Audio-Technica ATH-CC500BT2 uses cartilage conduction instead of bone conduction, providing a unique listening experience without ear canal insertion.

    2. Comfort and Awareness: These headphones allow users to be aware of their surroundings while listening, avoiding discomfort and moisture buildup associated with traditional earphones.

    3. Enhanced Sound Quality: Cartilage conduction offers a stereo sound experience, delivering distinct sounds to the ears rather than merging them in the skull.

    4. Improved Design Features: The ATH-CC500BT2 is smaller, lighter, and more secure than its predecessor, with an IPX4 water resistance rating and features like AI noise reduction and Bluetooth Multipoint.

    5. Long Battery Life and Fast Charging: The headphones provide up to 20 hours of playback on a single charge, with fast charging that allows 120 minutes of use from just a 10-minute charge.

    Audio-Technica has introduced a new set of open-ear headphones that utilize cartilage conduction technology, setting them apart from the bone conduction technology commonly found in other models. This latest offering marks the company’s second venture into headphones that employ cartilage conduction.

    Comfortable Listening Experience

    The Audio-Technica ATH-CC500BT2 offers users a unique listening experience without needing to insert anything into the ear canals. This design not only keeps the ear canals open but also ensures that users remain aware of their surroundings while listening. Unlike traditional bone conduction, these headphones transmit sound through the cartilage instead of the skull bones.

    Additional Benefits of Cartilage Conduction

    In addition to the benefits typical of open-ear designs, such as avoiding ear discomfort and moisture buildup, Audio-Technica claims that cartilage conduction has extra advantages. It tends to be more comfortable than bone conduction, as it applies less pressure to the head. Moreover, it offers a stereo sound experience, allowing sounds to reach the ears distinctly rather than merging in the cranial cavity, which is what happens with bone conduction.

    Improved Design and Features

    Building on the success of its earlier model from 2022, the ATH-CC500BT2 is said to be smaller and lighter than its predecessor while maintaining a secure fit even during light physical activities. The headphones boast an IPX4 water resistance rating, AI-powered noise reduction, and compatibility with voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant. They also support Bluetooth Multipoint, and users can take advantage of a companion app to adjust equalizer settings or enjoy soothing white noise.

    The headphones offer a battery life of up to 20 hours for playback on a single charge, with up to 10 hours available for calls. They feature fast charging capabilities, as a quick 10-minute charge can provide up to 120 minutes of use. The Audio-Technica ATH-CC500BT2 is compatible with AAC and SBC codecs, as well as A2DP, AVRCP, and HFP Bluetooth profiles.

    Audio-Technica has set the retail price for the headphones at £119 in the UK and €139 in Europe, but there is currently no information regarding a release in North America.

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  • AceFit Pro: Open-Ear Headphones with Integrated Lighting

    AceFit Pro: Open-Ear Headphones with Integrated Lighting

    New open-ear headphones are now seeking funding on Kickstarter, called the AceFit Pro. These headphones come packed with unique features and are available for pre-order, complete with an early-bird discount. As with any crowdfunding initiative, there are typical risks involved.

    Pricing and Availability

    The AceFit Pro is priced at $119, which is a 37% reduction from the retail price of $189. Customers can choose from four vibrant colors: green, pink, purple, and white. Additionally, there are several bundle options available, including a dual pack or packages that include other AceFast products. The global delivery is expected to begin in March 2025.

    Unique Features

    One standout feature of the AceFit Pro is its built-in lighting that offers eight different light effects. A matrix of 40 LEDs allows these open-ear headphones to shine brightly. This design not only adds a stylish touch but also aims to enhance safety during nighttime activities, like walking in poorly lit areas or jogging after dark. The manufacturer claims that the visibility can reach up to 10 meters.

    Sound Quality and Design

    For audio quality, AceFast has equipped the AceFit Pro with a 3-magnet Super Linear driver, which has a max amplitude of 0.5 mm. The earbuds are lightweight, weighing just 7.6 g, and they stay secure thanks to a 0.7 mm thin and flexible titanium wire that is wrapped in skin-friendly silicone.

    Additional Features

    Beyond touch controls, the AceFit Pro includes five different sound effects and ENC Noise Cancellation. The battery life is reportedly around 6 hours, but this can be extended by an additional 25 hours with the included charging case that features an integrated display. AceFast also assures users of reliable Bluetooth connectivity, thanks to LDS antennas, which support dual-device connections.

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  • Soundcore AeroFit 2: Wireless Headphones with LDAC & IP55 Rating

    Soundcore AeroFit 2: Wireless Headphones with LDAC & IP55 Rating

    Anker is launching a new pair of open-ear headphones called the Soundcore AeroFit 2, priced at US$99.99 on Amazon.

    Open-Ear Design Explained

    These headphones work by using speakers that face the ear canal, instead of being inserted inside it. This design allows Anker to include larger drivers, measuring 20 x 11.5 millimeters, and they claim to deliver excellent sound quality. The brand particularly highlights the accurate reproduction of bass frequencies. Users can enjoy high-quality playback without any loss, as the Soundcore AeroFit 2 supports LDAC for Bluetooth transmission.

    Comfortable Fit and Durability

    To keep the headphones securely in place, they come with an adjustable ear hook that can rotate in four different ways. According to the company, these hooks are even more comfortable than those on the earlier model. They are also covered in a silicone layer that aims to enhance comfort during use. With an IP55 rating, these headphones can withstand rain, making them suitable for outdoor activities like running.

    Impressive Battery Life

    The Soundcore AeroFit 2 boasts a battery life of up to 10 hours. When using the charging case, users can enjoy a total of up to 42 hours of playtime. A quick 10-minute charge can provide an extra 4 hours of listening time, making these headphones convenient for on-the-go use.

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