Aural Pleasures: The Best Audio Devices To Splurge On This Year
Shop our list of the best audio devices launched this year, plus some all-time favourites.
2022 has been a big year for audio devices. Never before have they played such a huge role in our daily lives. From Zoom meetings to office commutes and at-home entertainment, we’re practically always using some kind of audio device, so it’s not enough for them to simply satisfy the functional requirements like noise cancellation, long battery life and acoustics—they also need to be aesthetically pleasing, portable and comfortable. Ahead, we’ve shortlisted the best audio devices launched this year (plus some all-time favourites) to splurge on for your aural pleasure.
After much speculation and anticipation, Apple finally launched the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) earlier this year. Complete with the Apple-designed H2 chip, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) works in synergy with the custom-built driver and amplifier to deliver crisp, clear high notes and deep, rich bass in beautiful definition. The H2 chip is also responsible for greater noise cancellation, loftier three-dimensional sound and better battery life.
And that’s not all. The new MagSafe Charging Case is loaded with new features. For instance, you can charge it with your existing Apple Watch or MagSafe charger. It also comes with a built-in speaker which plays a sound to help you locate it if and when you misplace it. It’s also sweat and water resistant. And when you purchase a new AirPods Pro (2nd generation), it’ll come with a range of earbuds. Pick a pair that suits your ears best for a more comfortable experience.
No pair of headphones has made quite a splash on social media this year more than the new Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones. They went viral on TikTok and prompted many users to buy them for both function and aesthetic. Using their new Integrated Processor V1 combined with the Noise Cancelling processor and Bluetooth® “System on Chip” technology, this pair of headphones consumes less power than its average counterparts while offering superb reduction in high-frequency noise and high noise-cancelling performance—perfect for when you have to take virtual meetings in the office.
Sound clarity and bass sound reproduction aren’t all that it offers. It’s also able to automatically detect your voice and pause music without you lifting a finger, so you can have conversations without removing your headphones.
Here’s the original pair of headphones that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing: AirPods Max. Launched in 2020, the Apple AirPods Max changed the headphones game as we knew it. With its ultra-chic metal finish in five finishes, gold standard noise-cancelling technology, portability, high-fidelity audio and battery life, it was the ultimate tech accessory—and for good reason.
Before we get into the tech specs of the AirPods Pro, let’s get into their design. The headband is made from a breathable knit mesh, making it extremely comfortable for prolonged wear, while the custom-designed mesh textile wraps the ear cushions, providing a pillow-like softness. The immaculately anodised aluminium also makes it scratch, sweat and water resistant.
In terms of functionality, the Apple AirPods Pro combine high-fidelity audio with industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation to deliver a listening experience unlike any other. From deep, rich bass to faultless mids and crisp, clean highs, every single note can be heard with clarity. And that’s not all. They also have six outward-facing microphones which detect noise, and two inward-facing microphones to measure what you’re hearing—all to monitor and cancel unwanted external noise. Meanwhile, the beamforming microphones help isolate your voice so it can be heard clearly in any situation.
If none of the above audio devices tickle your fancy, the Bang & Olufsen (B&O) Beoplay EQ adaptive noise-cancelling wireless earphones are your best bet. These uber-chic earphones were tuned by acclaimed sound engineers and offer excellent noise cancellation that compensates for background noises while fitting snugly in your ears. The small, lightweight design makes these remarkably comfortable to wear—even while laying on a pillow. And the B&O Beoplay EQ’s six microphones and market-leading directional beamform technology make for crystal-clear phone calls, virtual meetings and the like.