Technics EAH-AZ100 Review: A Magnetic Approach to Sound Excellence
Technics has unveiled EAH-AZ100 premium true wireless earbuds at CES and they are well positioned as a competitor in the high-end market, challenging other well-regarded brands. They are more compact, lighter, and comfortable for prolonged use and they are also the first earbuds to use ‘Magnetic Fluid Drivers’.
Features
The EAH-AZ100 utilises Bluetooth 5.3 with support for SBC, AAC, LDAC, and LC3 codecs. The inclusion of LC3 is new to this model. They also feature three-device multipoint connectivity allowing seamless switching between devices. The battery life is improved, with up to 10 hours of playback with ANC on, and 28 hours with the charging case. The earbuds also include wear detection, Dolby Atmos spatial audio, and dynamic head tracking.
The Technics Audio Connect app provides a wide range of customisation options. The earbuds have 10mm free-edge dynamic drivers with Magnetic Fluid technology. They also have a direct mode to preserve audio quality. The EAH-AZ100 features an 8 band custom EQ allowing for a more precise sound adjustment. The earbuds also have an IPX4 rating for water and dust resistance.
Sound Quality
The EAH-AZ100 are capable of producing a balanced, detailed, and dynamic sound. The earbuds provide a clear and open sound with a superb amount of detail.
The low frequencies are deep and textured. The mid-range is open and informative. The high end has proper drive and attack, while still having enough substance. They have an even-handed sound, where no area is given undue prominence. They are capable of handling both 16bit/44.1kHz FLAC files with AAC and 24bit/96kHz files using LDAC. The earbuds have been tuned so that there’s a small bump in the bass when ANC is turned on to sound more lively and exciting.
Design and Comfort
The earbuds and charging case have been redesigned to be smaller and lighter than its predecessor, the Technics EAH-AZ80.
The earbuds weigh 5.9g each, while the charging case weighs 42g. Technics has prioritised comfort, with a reworked concha shape and five sizes of ear tips included. The design ensures a secure and comfortable fit for various ear shapes.
The charging case has also been updated with a smaller LED, USB-C charging, and Qi-compatible wireless charging capabilities. The earbuds are available in both black and silver. The controls are customisable with the Technics Audio Connect app which allows users to assign functions to either earbud.
Noise Cancellation
The Technics EAH-AZ100 features an Adaptive Noise Cancelling (ANC) system that adjusts to the wearer's ear and environment.
The ANC is effective in reducing low and mid-frequency noises, such as train rumbles, human voices, and traffic sounds. The ANC is pretty good and is comparable to some of the best in the market. In addition, the Voice Focus AI technology improves call quality by eliminating surrounding environmental noise. When comparing the EAH-AZ100 to its predecessor, the EAH-AZ80, it definitely does sound clearer over phone calls.
Features And Specs Summary
In summary, the EAH-AZ100 features a 10mm Free-Edge Magnetic Fluid Driver for high-quality audio, along with Adaptive Noise Cancelling for an immersive listening experience.
Its IPX4 water resistance ensures durability during workouts or outdoor use, while Voice Focus AI enhances voice clarity during calls. The earbuds also support Multipoint connection, allowing you to connect to up to three devices simultaneously, and their Concha Fit shape ensures a comfortable and secure fit. It also delivers clearer audio and a more balanced sound profile with its new driver, catering to a wider range of music genres.
The design has also been refined for greater comfort during extended use, with softer ear cushions and a more ergonomic fit. Furthermore, the battery life has been extended, allowing for longer listening sessions without the need for frequent recharging.
EAH-AZ100 Or…..
Below is a table to compare the EAH-AZ100 with its previous models. Panasonic has certainly raised the bar with this latest release, and in our opinion, these are the significant improvements:
The EAH-AZ100 have made notable advancements compared to the EAH-AZ80, particularly in sound quality, Adaptive Noise Cancelling, and overall user experience.
Value
The EAH-AZ100 are priced at SGD$469, which is the same price as its predecessor, the EAH-AZ80 when it was first launched in Singapore. The price also places them in direct competition with other premium earbuds.
Overall, the Technics EAH-AZ100 is a compelling option in the premium wireless earbuds market. They offer a strong feature set, a comfortable design, and impressive sound quality.
Content In Collaboration With Panasonic.