Today we are reviewing a new product from the legendary Technics audio brand, which is primarily known for its stationary devices: Technics EAH-AZ80 wireless headphones with high-quality noise cancellation, rich and surround sound, and a well-thought-out and functional application Let’s take a closer look at its features, tell you about its advantages and disadvantages, as well as the experience of using it as the main headphones for everyday use.
Pluses:
sound (volume, saturation, bass, ambient), design, ergonomics, noise reduction, application
Minuses:
midrange detail, microphones
Content
Packaging and equipment
The entire new line of Technics wireless headphones comes in small square boxes that differ from each other only in the model name and a small image of the headphone in the corner. In general, this year’s lineup, in addition to the Technics EAH-AZ80, also includes two models of the second generation TWS: the junior Technics EAH-AZ40M2 and the middle Technics EAH-AZ60M2.
The packaging is minimalistic and restrained, which is in line with the company’s overall approach to package design and its application, as discussed below. Inside is:
- Technics EAH-AZ80 headphones;
- 7 pairs of silicone ear cushions of different sizes (XS1, XS2, S1, S2, M, L, XL);
- USB-C to USB-C charging cable;
- documentation.
Such many ear cushions is due to the attention to the correct fit of the headphones. Well-fitting ear cushions not only contribute to optimal ergonomics, but also have a significant impact on the sound, which in the case of Technics EAH-AZ80 is further supported by in-app fit testing, which consists of several stages.
Design and ergonomics of the Technics EAH-AZ80
The headphones themselves do not look as minimalistic as their packaging, but still the design is restrained: black plastic cases with a golden logo and a golden microphone mesh. The headphone cases are large, which is due to the large number of technical solutions.
The ergonomics are top-notch, especially for a wireless model of this size: the headphones fit well and don’t fall out even during active movements, provided you have the right ear cushions. The model is protected against moisture and dust according to the IPX4 standard (only the headphones, the case is not protected against water and dirt)
The case is also made of matte black plastic, which has a positive effect on its weight and durability. The LED on the front of the case is responsible for indicating the charge level.
The case itself is small, but its flat shape makes it less convenient to transport than more streamlined models.
Connection and control
The first connection is simple and intuitive. Just take the headphones out of the case and connect them in the sound source settings. To reconnect, just hold down the touch panels on both headphones for a few seconds and select the same option in the smartphone settings (I recommend downloading the Technics app right away).
All control is done by tapping and holding the touch panels. The controls are responsive and without mouse clicks, working well and stably The in-ear sensor also works perfectly, at least during the test, no lags were detected.
In general, the app works well – we didn’t notice any lag or freezes during the entire testing period. Finally, even manufacturers with a more traditional approach to audio technology have realized that the app for wireless models, which are deeply configured on a smartphone, is not just a fun and additional option, but an extremely important part that affects the experience of using their products.
Noise reduction and microphones
Noise cancellation works well, although in particularly noisy rooms you want its power to be higher, it is comfortable enough for people who are sensitive to ANC
Active Noise Cancellation - noise cancellation system. That is, even at 100% muffling, the ANC of the headphones does not put pressure on the head, as is often the case when using this function.
The permeability mode is at a high level, although using Technics EAH-AZ80 without taking them out of your ears while talking to someone is not as comfortable as AirPods Pro, but it is quite convenient for a short conversation. The quality of the earbuds is decent, but again, this is not AirPods Pro and is far from a specialized headset with a remote microphone. The model is suitable for short calls, but for daily long conversations, it’s better to consider something else.
Autonomy of Technics EAH-AZ80
The headphones last 4-4.5 hours on a single charge at maximum sound quality, with ANC enabled and at 80-90% volume. The charging case provides 2-3 more full charges of the headphones, which is quite enough for comfortable use.
According to the manufacturer’s website, the battery life can be significantly improved by changing the audio quality settings to lower ones: 7 hours when using the AAC codec and 4.5 hours when using LDAC. But turning off the noise reduction has almost no effect on the battery and will add only half an hour of listening on average. By the way, Technics EAH-AZ80 supports Qi wireless charging.
Technical characteristics Technics EAH-AZ80
| Type of construction | In-channel |
| Connection type | Wireless |
| Active noise cancellation (ANC) | Yes |
| Bluetooth codec | AAC, LDAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth remote control | Up to 10 m |
| Multipoint | Yes (connecting up to 3 devices at the same time) |
| Type of emitter | Dynamic |
| Acoustic design | Closed |
| Frequency range, Hz | 20-40000 |
| Power supply | Li-Ion battery/7h |
| Headphone weight | 7 grams |
| Case weight | 50 grams |
Technologies and features
Technics’ signature clear sound
The 10 mm aluminum drivers and unique acoustic technology deliver rich, detailed sound for high-quality audio.
Comfortable design
The discreet design with a natural fit in the ear provides comfort and allows the headphones to stay in place even during active movements and sports.
Full range of sound
Detailed sound with powerful bass — enhanced bass with low distortion is achieved with large 10 mm aluminum alloy diaphragms with a free edgeIt uses an acoustic chamber for a natural midrange and powerful bass. Plus a harmonizer for a wide sound with less distortion. Supports high-quality LDAC wireless audio.
Technological ANC and microphone quality
Dual Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation technology using internal and external microphones, as well as analog and digital processing — for uninterrupted high-quality sound reproduction.
Technics EAH-AZ80 sound
Technics EAH-AZ80 sound emotional, which is especially noticeable in such genres as pop and rap. First, you notice the improved work with the stage and ambient – the tracks sound voluminous and rich.
The highs are soft and well-detailed, which is good for strings and wind instruments, which don’t cut your ears even when they are abundant. The middle frequencies sag a bit, but this is noticeable only on active genres such as rock or metal.
The bass was given the most attention, but not in the traditional sense of «bass-headed» models, when low frequencies are maximized, which negatively affects the mid-low and sometimes even the midrange. In the case of Technics EAH-AZ80, the manufacturer has made the bass as textured and three-dimensional as possible, without negatively affecting the middle, which makes a very positive impression.
The model cannot be called genre-oriented because the headphones perfectly reproduce even complex aggressive compositions, but still, they reveal themselves best in ambient genres and tracks with many low frequencies.
The sound of Technics EAH-AZ80 is focused on a specific audience and may not appeal to connoisseurs of a calmer and smoother sound, but the target audience, as of today, is unlikely to find something of higher quality.
The main testing was carried out on Apple iPhone 15 Pro, Google Pixel 7, and Apple MacBook Air M1 laptops using Spotify and Apple Music streaming services.
Price and competitors
Cost Technics EAH-AZ80 at the start of sales is 10 999 UAH.
The closest competitors in this price category are Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 for 12 899 UAH, Bowers & Wilkins PI5 S2 for 11 380 UAH and Shure AONIC 215 for 11 172 UAH (yes, it’s not exactly TWS, but the sound is good).
Apple AirPods Pro 2 on discounts can be found at 9 299 UAH (usually 11 499 UAH), and the standard price Apple AirPods 3 is 9 399 UAH.
Model from the new lineTechnics EAH-AZ60M2 will cost the buyer about 8 999 UAH.
We express our gratitude to the store Portativ.ua for the Technics EAH-AZ80 TWS provided for review
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