Technics EAH-AZ80 Review - Wireless Headphone Review

 

Technics EAH-AZ80 Review: Audiophile's Dream or Just Hype?

In the world of high-end wireless headphones, Technics has quietly emerged as a formidable contender, challenging the likes of Apple, Sony, and Bose. Are the EAH-AZ80 headphones robust enough to stake their claim in this competitive arena? Find out in our comprehensive review.

The Evolution of Technics Wireless Headphones

In 2020, Technics, a renowned Japanese manufacturer, ventured into the realm of wireless headphones. Following the success of their previous models, the EAH-AZ70W and EAH-AZ60, Technics introduced their latest creations last May.

The Overwhelming Choices in Wireless Audio

The wireless audio headphone market has witnessed a proliferation of options in recent times, making choosing the right one a daunting task. It's natural for consumers to categorize these options, often dividing them into traditional hi-fi brands like Bowers Wilkins, Audio Technica, Sennheiser, Bose, and Technics, on one side, and tech giants like Apple, Samsung, Google, and Huawei, on the other.

Breaking Stereotypes: Hi-Fi vs. Tech Giants

While there are preconceived notions about each category, hi-fi brand headphones are often associated with superior sound quality and noise cancellation, catering to audiophiles. Conversely, tech giants focus on sleek designs, robust battery life, and user-friendly features, appealing to a broader audience. Sony stands out as a rare example that excels in both worlds.

The Shift in 2023: Audiophile vs. AirPods Pro

In 2023, do these perceptions still hold true? Can Technics headphones captivate non-audiophiles, and can inform music enthusiasts to consider AirPods Pro without hesitation? To truly gauge the worth of Technics EAH-AZ80, we subjected them to rigorous testing over three months, comparing them to our AirPods Pro 2 and Sennheiser Momentum 3.

Technics EAH-AZ80 Review - Wireless Headphone Price and Availability

The Technics EAH-AZ80 headphones, available in black and silver, hit the market in May at a price point of 299 euros, positioning them squarely in the high-end wireless headphone category.

Technics EAH-AZ80 Review - Wireless Headphone Review

Design and Comfort

Technics, rooted in its audiophile heritage, has crafted the EAH-AZ80 with a design that strikes a balance between being impressive and ergonomic. They are slightly larger than typical earphones but remain lightweight at 6 to 7 grams each.

The exterior aesthetics are visually appealing, reminiscent of vinyl's textured surface, while the tactile surface features intricate circles. Unfortunately, the interior assembly marks are somewhat visible, but this doesn't compromise the headphones' structural integrity.

In terms of comfort, while the fit is excellent, individuals with smaller ears may find them a bit snug. Fortunately, Technics provides seven different tip sizes to cater to varying ear shapes and sizes.

The Unassuming Case

The headphone case boasts a simple, elongated, and round design, measuring 73 x 35 x 28 mm. Although it's pocket-friendly, it may not be the most discreet option on the market.

The brushed aluminum top surface exudes elegance, while the case's sides remain minimalist. It features only a battery indicator and a USB-C port for charging, with pairing directly handled through the headphones.

Audiophile Sound Quality

Technics takes bold steps when it comes to sound quality. The EAH-AZ80 headphones house 10 mm diameter transducers, a rarity, with each earphone having its own acoustic chamber, a unique design feature.

The Versatile Sound Signature

The sound signature of the EAH-AZ80 is impressively versatile, characterized by a Japanese W signature that delivers precision and balance across the entire audio spectrum.

Low frequencies are robust without being overpowering, while the midrange is carefully tuned to accentuate vocals, enhancing the overall warmth. The treble reproduction is airy and full, though the extreme highs can sometimes feel slightly subdued, particularly in complex electronic or pop tracks.

The Comprehensive Companion App

The EAH-AZ80 companion app, available for both iOS and Android, offers a plethora of features. The touch controls are easily accessible on the large touch-sensitive surface, although there's a slight latency issue that may lead to occasional misinputs.

Noise Cancellation - A Surprising Feat

To establish a foothold among the best active noise-canceling headphones, Technics employed an array of four microphones in each earphone, supplemented by sophisticated software processing. Additionally, a dedicated microphone counters noise from within the earpiece.

Telephony Quality: Surprisingly Good!

While audiophile manufacturers often overlook call quality, it holds significant importance for the average consumer. The EAH-AZ80 incorporates four microphones per earphone, leveraging Technics' JustMyVoice technology, which filters and amplifies voices.

Impressive Battery Life, with a Catch

On paper, Technics claims an impressive battery life of 7 hours and 30 minutes with active noise reduction and 7 hours without it. However, audiophile-grade features, such as LDAC codec and RBA, significantly impact battery life.

Triple Multipoint Connection: A Game-Changer

The EAH-AZ80 headphones introduce a remarkable innovation: a triple multipoint connection, a feature that sets them apart in a crowded market.

Conclusion: The Perfect Crossover

Technics has pulled off an impressive feat with its EAH-AZ80 headphones. They bridge the gap between the two worlds, offering audiophile-grade sound quality and versatility. These headphones prove that the general public can find what they're looking for in a hi-fi brand, dispelling traditional audio prejudices. While the reverse transition remains challenging, Technics has made a compelling case for its headphones in 2023's competitive audio landscape.