As an avid audiophile, the announcement of Technics' EAH-AZ100 True Wireless in-ear headphones immediately caught our attention. With Technics celebrating its 60th anniversary, they’ve unveiled these earbuds that seem to push the boundaries of sound quality in the wireless domain.
The EAH-AZ100 features a newly developed magnetic fluid driver, a technology derived from their high-end TZ700 model. This driver utilizes a viscous magnetic fluid placed between the driver magnet and the voice coil, minimizing distortion for a pure, low-vibration audio experience. The incorporation of an ultra-thin free-edge material allows these earbuds to achieve an ultra-low frequency response down to 3Hz, delivering deep and precise bass. The aluminum diaphragm ensures natural high-resolution sound, capturing every detail with clarity.
Communication has been thoughtfully addressed with Voice Focus AI technology. Each earbud is equipped with an AI noise reduction chip and three microphones, effectively filtering out disruptive background noises like traffic or wind. This ensures clear call quality for both parties, which is a significant advantage for daily use in varying environments.
The Adaptive Noise Cancelling feature dynamically adjusts to your surroundings by assessing environmental noise levels and even the shape of your ear. This means whether you're in a bustling café or a quiet office, the noise cancellation adapts in real-time to provide optimal performance, effectively reducing low- and mid-range sounds, including human voices.
For those who crave an immersive audio experience, the EAH-AZ100 supports spatial audio optimized for Dolby Atmos, along with Dolby Head Tracking. This technology adapts to your head movements, creating a more authentic and enveloping sound field. It places you at the center of the audio experience, enhancing the way you enjoy music, movies, or games.
Connectivity is robust with support for the latest Bluetooth LE Audio standard and the Auracast feature, allowing seamless pairing and sharing of audio experiences. The use of the LC3 codec provides low-latency audio, which is particularly beneficial for gaming and video playback. Compatibility with Google Fast Pair simplifies syncing with Android devices.
Comfort and fit have not been overlooked. The earbuds are smaller and lighter, designed for extended wear without discomfort. A new fifth eartip size, 'ML', has been added to help users find the perfect seal, critical for sound quality and effective noise cancellation. The ergonomic design ensures they stay securely in place, whether you're commuting or working out.
Battery life is impressive, with up to 10 hours of playback with noise cancellation active, and a total of 28 hours when using the charging case. The convenience of Qi wireless charging adds to the user-friendly experience, allowing you to charge the earbuds on any compatible wireless charger.
Practical features like the one-touch conversation mode allow you to quickly switch to a transparent mode, highlighting surrounding voices without removing the earbuds. The built-in wearing sensors automatically pause music when the earbuds are removed and resume playback when they’re put back in, enhancing everyday usability.
Available soon in elegant silver and black designs, the EAH-AZ100 continues Technics' tradition of combining cutting-edge technology with stylish aesthetics. With a suggested retail price of just under $300, they offer a compelling option for those seeking high-quality sound and advanced features in a sleek package.