Apple AirPods Pro

Not a remix but a remake

In 2019, Apple took the development of true wireless headphones seriously, introducing three new models at once: the second version of the regular AirPods, Apple Beats Solo on-ears and the all-new AirPods Pro, which were developed without much regard for the first and second generation of AirPods, Now these are pure vacuum headphones with silicone tips (so be sure to measure them before buying, they may not fit), they have become larger (there are more electronics inside), but due to the shortened “legs” they look neater than their predecessors. Another big innovation is the IPX4 sweat and water resistance of these little ones, which means active sports.

More convenient control system

The control system has also been completely redesigned. If AirPods of the first and second generation relied on an accelerometer and tapping on the body, then here we have small panels with pressure sensors that allow you to pause playback, switch tracks and turn on the “transparency” mode. With it, the headphones specifically pass external sound through the built-in microphones so that the user hears what is happening around. In general, managing the new Pro has become more convenient, although the system also takes some getting used to.

Built-in calibration

But the most interesting and unusual innovation is the connection calibration mode. The smartphone sends a test signal and compares the sound in the earpiece with the level outside, after which the AirPods Pro understand how well or poorly the nozzle fits. Sometimes the system advises just pulling out and inserting the earpiece back, sometimes replacing the nozzle. Calibration affects both the quality of active noise cancellation and the overall sound quality. And this is again an occasion to talk about changes. Thanks to the vacuum fit and new custom drivers, the sound quality has changed dramatically: the new product has a great dynamic range, the bass has become much more powerful and can be heard even in the subway, the sound spectrum has become smoother and does not sag in the upper mids. Their character is universal, with the expectation of the most motley audience, and the overall sound level is excellent for wireless headphones.

Issue price

Against the background of all this, there is essentially one minus and this is again a damn high price, it exceeds $300. However, given their convenience, versatility and the amount of electronics stuffed into each headphone, such a price tag looks quite justified. Yes, and additional chips like a case with support for wireless charging also cost money.