The Technics AZ100 earbuds represent a significant leap forward from their predecessor, the AZ80, delivering a refined and immersive listening experience. This review delves into the key upgrades, exploring the enhancements in audio quality, noise cancellation, and call clarity. We'll examine how the new magnetic fluid driver technology elevates the soundstage and precision, resulting in a richer, more detailed audio profile that rivals premium competitors. Beyond the sonic improvements, we'll also assess the upgraded noise cancellation and the impact of the improved voice-focus AI mode on call quality.This in-depth analysis will cover the AZ100's added features, including Dolby Atmos support for spatial audio and LE Audio compatibility for future-proofing. We’ll also discuss the improved comfort and fit, thanks to a more compact design. Ultimately, we'll determine whether the AZ100's enhancements justify an upgrade for existing AZ80 owners, and whether it stands as a compelling contender in the competitive premium wireless earbud market.
Pros And Cons
- Substantial improvement over its predecessor (AZ80)
- Magnetic fluid driver component improves range and precision
- Supports Dolby Atmos and converts non-Atmos content to spatial audio
- Adaptive noise cancelling mode added
- New Voice Focus AI mode for noise reduction in calls (works for both caller and receiver)
- Supports LE Audio mode
- Smaller size than AZ80 (both earbuds and case)
- Improved mic pickup over AZ80, better background noise filtering, amplified voice
- Good active noise cancelling, improvement over AZ80
- Adaptive noise cancelling mode is seamless and usable
- Clearer ambient mode/transparency mode than AZ80, more crisp and clear
- Significant sound quality improvement over AZ80; cleaner track separation, wider sound staging, more 3D-like layering, more extension and texture in bass
- Reliable Bluetooth connection and three-way multi-point pairing
- Vocals may sound slightly less full compared to AZ80
- Three-way multi-point pairing may be slow in switching sometimes
- Three-way multi-point does not support streaming over LDAC
- Voice prompts are not perfect; sometimes from one side, sometimes from other, rarely from both
- App is slow in recognizing buds, and in toggling settings
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Sound Quality Improvements
The Technics AZ100 boasts significant audio enhancements over its predecessor, the AZ80. The magnetic fluid driver component improves range and precision, resulting in more accurate and lower noise floor for high-resolution sound. The soundstage is noticeably wider, creating a more immersive 3D-like listening experience. There's improved track separation and more texture in the bass, offering a richer, fuller sound.
While the AZ80's vocals were slightly less bloated, the AZ100 still delivers excellent sound quality, rivaling even premium earbuds from Bose and Bowers & Wilkins. The overall sound is cleaner and more refined, making for a truly enjoyable listening experience.
Noise Cancellation and Mic Performance
The AZ100 features adaptive noise cancellation, offering a more natural listening experience across various noise levels. While the decibel reduction isn't dramatically higher than the AZ80, the noise masking is improved, creating a more refined listening experience. This is particularly noticeable in mid-range frequencies.
The voice Focus AI mode is a major improvement over the AZ80's 'Just My Voice' feature. It effectively reduces background noise for both the caller and the recipient, making calls clearer in noisy environments. This two-way noise reduction greatly enhances call quality.
Additional Features and Design
Beyond sound and noise cancellation, the AZ100 supports Dolby Atmos, creating spatial audio even with non-Atmos content. It also offers LE Audio compatibility, promising future support for high-quality audio streaming. These features add versatility and future-proofing to the earbuds.
The AZ100's smaller size and improved fit are a welcome addition. They are more comfortable and secure in the ear, making them ideal for prolonged wear. Despite the smaller form factor, Technics retained all the key features of the AZ80, such as multipoint pairing and high-res audio certification.
Conclusion: Are the Technics AZ100 Worth It?
The Technics AZ100 represents a substantial upgrade over the AZ80, offering significant improvements in sound quality, noise cancellation, and call clarity. The smaller form factor and added features like Dolby Atmos and LE Audio support further enhance its appeal.
While the AZ80 remains a solid choice, the AZ100's superior audio performance, refined noise cancellation, and improved microphone make it a compelling option for those seeking a premium wireless earbud experience. The enhancements justify the upgrade, particularly for users prioritizing audio quality and call clarity.