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I’ve been using these cheap headphones for a month, and I’d recommend them to anyone who needs an affordable pair

1:30 am | March 8, 2026

Soundpeats Cove Pro: Two-minute review

If you’re here because you’re interested in buying the best cheap headphones, let’s skip to the chase: these are now going to be the go-to pair I recommend for the foreseeable future. They’re not perfect, which is why there’s still over 1,000 words to this Soundpeats Cove Pro review, but for the money they're outstanding.

Soundpeats is constantly impressing me with its great-value audio offerings, like the indelible in-ear Soundpeats H3, or the reliable open Soundpeats Clip1, and so I’m not overly surprised that I’m giving out another glowing review to something from the company. It’s less versed in over-ears than other kinds of headphone, though, so there was always the chance of something going wrong.

The Cove Pro are fantastic headphones for people who just need any old pair of cans that’ll do the job, so you’ve got a way of listening to music when at home or on the go – they nail all of quality-of-life features you’ll want.

For example, the battery life is fantastic: 95 hours, or nearly four days straight. These aren’t going to give up the ghost during a long-haul flight, that’s for sure.

They’re also some of the most comfortable on-ears I’ve used recently, as the padding in the cups and headband is soft, and they’re not too heavy or pinchy over the crown of your noggin. What I'm saying is, you can leave them on your head for long periods of time without getting aches.

Audiophiles (or people who aren't sure of the title but are picky about their sound) might not be as impressed. The ANC is quite light-touch; the Cove Pro reduce sound more than ‘cancel’ it, and the audio isn’t as good as some other budget options I’ve tested. It’s a bit too warm and veers towards muddy, with a lower-end that isn’t as well-defined as on some alternatives. I wasn’t blown away, but bass-heads might still be happy.

Soundpeats Cove Pro review: Price and release date

The Soundpeats Cove Pro hanging up, and with the inside of each cup facing outwards. — (Image credit: Future)

Released in January 2025
Sells for $69.99 / £69.99 (around AU$140)
Cheap, but not cheap cheap in today's market

Soundpeats announced the Cove Pro in January 2026, following the rush of headphones that followed CES at the beginning of the year.

You can buy the Cove Pro for $69.99 / £69.99 (around AU$140), so they're fairly affordable cans – best suited for people who want decent headphones that'll last a long time, but don't need the highest quality or audio or premium features.

They’re not the very cheapest headphones that are worth considering – I recently tested the OneOdio Focus A1 Pro which sell for $34.99 / £43.99 (about AU$85), and there are a few other super-budget options worth buying like the Sony WH-CH520. But they’re still certainly a budget option compared to the big names on the block.

Soundpeats Cove Pro review: Specs

Drivers	40mm
Active noise cancellation	Yes
Battery life (ANC off)	95 hours
Weight	251g
Connectivity	Bluetooth 6.0
Frequency response	20 Hz - 40,000 Hz
Waterproofing	IPX4

Soundpeats Cove Pro review: Features

The Soundpeats Cove Pro's array of buttons. — (Image credit: Future)

95-hour battery life
The ANC is very light-touch
Nice perks like Bluetooth 6.0, listening test and LDAC

Possibly the most eye-catching spec of the Soundpeats Cove Pro is the battery life: up to 95 hours of ANC-off listening. Very few headphones crack the 100-hour barrier, and anything close like this deserves props.

The endurance drops quite a bit if you turn ANC on: down to 58 hours. That's quite a sacrifice to remove some sound, though in the grand scheme of things ~60 hours is still decent.

The ANC isn't very powerful here; it'll strip out the worst of background noises rather than remove them in any meaningful way. There's also an ambient mode, but I couldn't hear a difference between this and Normal (ANC off).

The Soundpeats Cove Pro's headband. — (Image credit: Future)

The Soundpeats app is the Cove Pro’s all-but-mandatory smartphone app. It's worth downloading, even though it forces you to create an account, because it offers a few features unusual in lower-cost headphones.

The app offers an equalizer (presets or 10-band custom mode), find my headphones function, spatial audio, bass booster and even a custom listening test which builds you a bespoke EQ mix. It’s clearly in a very early state – the pictures and text refers to earbuds, and one menu was in Mandarin, but it did a decent job of tweaking my audio and wasn’t too hard to use.

Unlike many budget music-blowers, the SoundPeats supports a few higher-res Bluetooth codecs, including LDAC, SBC and AAC. It connects via Bluetooth 6.0, and in my testing it didn't stop out at all – there was one brief stutter, and that was it.

Features score: 4/5

Soundpeats Cove Pro review: Design

The Soundpeats Cove Pro's outer shell. — (Image credit: Future)

Light and comfortable to wear
Useful on-cup controls, but no 3.5mm
Bog-standard looks

When I pulled the Soundpeats Cove Pro from the box, I thought they were dead ringers for my old Sony WH-1000XM3s. Sure, there isn't a huge scope for variety in the world of headphone aesthetics, especially the budget market, but the design language is there.

These cans weigh 250g, with an IPX4 rating indicating that they’re splash-roof. The right cup has an ANC button, power button and volume rocker on it, and they're flush enough that I sometimes thought I'd missed pressing them until I got used to the feel of it. The exception is the power button, which has a little indent so you can easily differentiate it by feel.

The one thing I’d like to see is a 3.5mm port. As it stands, you can’t use an AUX cord to connect these to your music player.

I found the Cove Pro surprisingly comfortable; you can't always rely on the budget headphones for a good fit, but these felt great. The soft cups settle gently on the ears, and a large pad on the band keeps them nestled on your cranium. I could listen for long periods without any kind of strain or ache.

The headphones also feel surprisingly premium in terms of build quality. The plastic material feels a little more durable than the squeaky cheap stuff some rivals are made out of, and other traits of budget cans like rattly joins and a hollow-feeling body were all absent.

You can fold the Cove Pro in on itself to make it more portable, and they swivel and extend a fair amount to suit different sized heads.

Design score: 4.5/5

Soundpeats Cove Pro review: Sound quality

The Soundpeats Cove Pro on a man's head. — (Image credit: Future)

40mm driver
Messy low-end handling
EQ can fix some issues

Like most budget headphones – actually, most cans at any budget – the Cove Pro have 40mm drivers. Soundpeats' website goes into detail on titanium-coated diaphragms, patterned dome drivers and magnets, all giving the impression of a thoughtful approach to audio – it’s all for naught, though, as they don’t sound any better than your average budget cans

Music is warm, sometimes too much – as I write this I’m listening to Old Ties and Companions by Watchhouse, and the timbre that should be created by the various acoustic instruments feels lacking because of the sound profile. Bass can sometimes blow out other parts of a song, especially with rock music, which can often see the bass guitar override guitars.

It’ll appeal to bass-heads for sure, and people who go to gigs so often that they don’t realize you’re not always supposed to hear and feel the bass above everything else. But I found it a bit too much – and using the Bass Reduction EQ preset sometimes wasn’t even enough.

Get through the bass, and you’ll find fairly detailed audio, though the lack of support for wired listening means these aren’t budget audiophile cans by any means. There’s a pronounced soundstage though, something you can’t always say about options at this price point, giving a little bit of extra sparkle to songs like T-Shirt Weather by Circa Waves and Such Great Heights by the Postal Service, which have bassless introductions so you can enjoy the atmosphere.

Sound quality: 3.5/5

Soundpeats Cove Pro review: Value

The Soundpeats Cove Pro in a man's hand. — (Image credit: Future)

At best, exceeds expectations for price
At worst, matches expectations for price

The Soundpeats Cove Pro aren't quite the cheapest headphones on the market – or that have wowed TechRadar’s team recently – but they're not far off. And they offer top value for money.

The build quality here is better than I've come to see expect from budget cans, even if the looks won't win any awards for originality. And the feature set is better than many same-price rivals, with tools that you'd normally find in cans twice as pricey.

In its weaker departments, the Cove Pro still deliver at the level you'd expect for this price; they sound no worse than the average budget headset, and deliver enough ANC to trump rivals which don't offer the feature.

Value: 4/5

Should I buy the Soundpeats Cove Pro?

Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025) score card
Attributes	Notes	Rating
Features	The battery life is great, and there are some solid features, but the ANC isn't anything to write home about.	4/5
Design	They're basic to look at, but lightweight and comfy.	4.5/5
Sound quality	They sound muddy, but there's detail and a reasonably wide soundstage.	3.5/5
Value	Set your expectations for the budget and you won't be disappointed.	4/5

Buy them if…

You need a really solid battery
If you don't get around to charging your headphones often, the 95 hours offered here will be great for you.

You don't want uncomfortable headphones
If you often find over-ear headphones a little uncomfortable, you might find these a bit more tolerable.View Deal

You don't want to spend much money
Don't use your headphones enough to justify an expensive purchase? These will be great alternatives that'll serve you find.View Deal

Don’t buy them if…

Audio quality is your most important factor
The best parts of the Cove Pro are their features and build, and budget audiophiles will find better picks below.

You need top-tier noise cancellation
If you live somewhere noisy and need to find peace, these are fine picks, but there are better buys (see below for these).

Soundpeats Cove Pro review: Also consider

	Soundpeats Cove Pro	OneOdio Focus A6	Earfun Wave Life
Drivers	40mm	40mm	40mm
Active noise cancellation	Yes	Yes	Yes
Battery life (ANC on)	95 hours	75 hours	60 hours
Weight	251g	240g	264g
Connectivity	Bluetooth 6.0	Bluetooth 6.0	Bluetooth 5.4
Waterproofing	IPX4	None	None

OneOdio Focus A6
These top-rated headphones sound great, and undercut the Cove Pro. If audio quality is your main interest, these are the alternatives to consider.
Read our full OneOdio Focus A6 review

Earfun Wave Life
These picks are also more affordable than the Soundpeats, and are also very comfortable to wear (plus we liked the ANC) though the battery life isn't comparable.
Read our full Earfun Wave Life review

How I tested the Soundpeats Cove Pro

Tested for a month
Tested at home, on walks, on public transport and the gym

I used the Soundpeats Cove Pro for just over a month to write this review, immediately following a few of their big rivals.

I used the cans paired alongside my Android phone, listening on a variety of services. This included in a range of indoor and outdoor settings including, most challengingly, on a train ride home after a high-end audio show.

For TechRadar, I've already tested a wide range of budget headphones, including over-ear alternatives and other picks from Soundpeats.

First reviewed in March 2026

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I spent two weeks with Cambridge’s all-new active bookshelf speakers and they’re an immediate pound-for-pound market-leader contender

12:34 pm | March 4, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Gadgets Hi-Fi Wireless & Bluetooth Speakers | Tags: EQ | Comments: Off

Cambridge L/R S: Two-minute review

The Cambridge L/R S is the first out of the gate of the British audio brand's new ‘L/R’ wireless range to attack the best stereo speaker systems market. It's also the most affordable: this L/R S sells for Ruark MR1 Mk3-adjacent money, which seems less than accidental.

The money buys a crisply accomplished standard of build and finish, as well as some proper specification highlights — not least of which is that this is an active, rather than a powered, speaker system with a dedicated block of amplification for each of its drivers and an active DSP crossover. A choice of five quite fetching colors doesn’t do any harm, and neither does the option of a real walnut veneer alternative — even if the latter comes at additional cost. Support for aptX HD Bluetooth connectivity, along with line-level analog, USB-C and digital optical inputs, means the L/R S can support a reasonably diverse and expansive set of sources. The provision of a pre-out for a subwoofer is a nice touch, too, although (as we shall directly see) not super-necessary.

No matter the source of the music it’s playing, the L/R S is a big, bold and quite assertive listen; but that’s not the same as saying it’s unsubtle. There’s plenty of detail retrieved to go along with the attack, good insight to complement the dynamism, and a fairly natural and neutral way with frequency response and tonality. Or, at least, there is until you reach the bottom of the frequency range — here the L/R S is rather too confident, and gives a little too much weighting to bass information. This isn’t at the expense of rhythmic expression or forward drive, though.

All of which means the Cambridge L/R S is immediately one of the very best pound-for-pound desktop stereo systems around, and one that demands very careful consideration indeed.

Front panel of the Cambridge L/R S active speaker system, in front of a plant, on white surface. — (Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Cambridge L/R S review: Price & release date

$549 / £399 / AU$949
Released April 1, 2026 (in US/Europe)
Originally announced in January 2026

The Cambridge L/R S wireless active stereo speaker system is on sale from April 1, 2026 in Europe and the USA — in APAC (Asia-Pacific) countries it’s already available.

In the United States it will cost $549. Or, at least, it will in any of the five colors in which it will be available — if you fancy the real walnut veneer you're looking at $599. In the United Kingdom it's going to go for £399/£449, while in Australia it is already selling for AU$949/AU$1049.

So the price, as well as the basic configuration, is very close indeed to Ruark’s class-leading MR1 Mk3. Coincidence? Hmm…

Rear panel of the Cambridge L/R S active speaker system, showing speaker link, USB-C input and sub out configurations. — (Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Cambridge L/R S review: Features

100 watts of Class D amplification
21mm tweeter, 76mm mid/bass driver
Wired and wireless input options

First things first: this is a genuinely active, rather than a powered, stereo speaker system. Any rival product at this sort of money uses one powered speaker to deal with inputs, outputs, amplification, decoding and all the rest of it, and then sends amplified analog information to a passive partner.

With the L/R S, though, Cambridge has gone another, more complex and inevitably more expensive way: although only the primary speaker receives mains power, there are two channels of amplification for each speaker, and a full DSP crossover which serves a PWM (pulse-width modulation) signal to each of the amplifiers. A bespoke four-conductor cable connects the primary speaker to the secondary, along which all power and digital audio signals travel. I don’t think I can be criticized if I use the word ‘over-engineered’ here, so I will – but I am also quite happy to use the word ‘admirable’.

The rear of the secondary speaker features a screw-down socket for connecting that inter-speaker cable, and a bass-reflex slot along the top. The primary speaker has these features too, but it also includes USB-C, line-level stereo RCA and digital optical inputs, plus a pre-out for a subwoofer, and Bluetooth wireless reception (with aptX HD codec compatibility). The optical and USB-C inputs support resolutions of up to 24bit/96kHz PCM – every incoming signal is resampled to 24bit/48kHz in the DSP before its delivery in PWM form to the amplifiers.

Power, incidentally, is of the Class D variety, and there’s 100 watts of it. Each driver gets 25 watts to play with — there’s a 21mm hard-dome tweeter behind a waveguide and phase cap above a 76mm mid/bass driver in each speaker. Cambridge suggests this layout results in a frequency response of 55Hz - 24kHz. The rear of the primary speaker also includes a button that operates as both a power on/off switch and as an input selector. It also features three toggle switches: one to let the speaker know if it’s the left or the right channel, one to tell it if the system is being used on a desktop or not, and one to let it know if it’s in free space or near a wall. And there’s a figure-of-eight socket for mains power, too.

Features score: 5 / 5

Front panel of the Cambridge L/R S active speakers, showing a closeup of the tweeter. — (Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Cambridge L/R S review: Sound quality

Expansive, detailed and upfront sound
Direct and positive sonic attitude
Slightly overplays its low-end hand

Yes, the L/R S is on the larger side for a desktop system but the sound it delivers is appreciably larger than that. Connected via USB-C and with a 24bit/44.1kHz FLAC file of Cate Le Bon’s Are You With Me Now? incoming, the scale and spaciousness of the presentation is initially quite startling.

The overall sense of scale is complemented nicely by the Cambridge’s ability to generate an organized, convincing soundstage and to focus well. There’s a fair amount of separation to the overall presentation, but at the same time a decent sense of singularity that prevents even complex recordings from sounding disjointed or untogether. Add in sufficient dynamic headroom for when the going gets especially loud or intense, and the Cambridge system sounds both bigger and more confident than its physical dimensions might suggest.

The tonal balance is fairly neutral despite a suggestion of heat at the bottom end, and frequency response once you get above the lowest of the low frequencies is smooth and even – the crossover between the two drive units is all-but imperceptible. The top of the frequency range balances attack against substance nicely, while the midrange communicates in a manner easily described as ‘lavish’. The system’s ability to reveal detail of any significance and give it appropriate weighting means voices are delivered with plenty of character and attitude.

There’s a little issue at the bottom of the frequency range. Basically, the Cambridge is slightly too pleased with the amount of low-frequency presence it’s able to liberate from recordings and just fractionally overplays its hand. There’s a little too much emphasis on the bottom end in the context of the overall frequency response available here, a minor bloom at the very bottom of the extension that can make bass sound just a touch too prominent and therefore slightly too remote from everything that’s going on above it.

Despite this, the L/R S controls its low-end activity carefully enough to ensure rhythms are expressed convincingly and momentum levels never dip below where they should be. And besides, I know perfectly well that if it comes to a straight choice, there are plenty of listeners who would choose ‘a little too much bass’ over ‘not quite enough bass’ every time.

All of the above applies if you choose to listen at volume levels somewhere between ‘background’ and ‘really quite loud’. Go beyond that and the L/R S loses a little of its admirable composure and its previously nicely open stage starts to sound a little flat and two-dimensional. It’s hardly a fatal flaw, though, and besides… it’s easily fixed. Just turn it down a touch.

Sound quality score: 5 / 5

Front and back panels of the Cambridge L/R S active speaker system, on a white surface. — (Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Cambridge L/R S review: Design

226 x 134 x 180mm (HxWxD)
Choice of six finishes, including a (cost-option) real wood veneer
No grilles supplied

It is, admittedly, a little larger than the Ruark MR1 Mk3 that would appear its primary target, but the Cambridge L/R S is nonetheless compact enough at 226 x 134 x 180mm (HxWxD) to sit happily on even a modestly sized desk (as long as it’s reasonably tidy). At the same time, it’s just about big enough to not look too lost on a pair of regular speaker stands.

No matter where you want to position it, though, there are lightly rubberized little feet integrated into the bottom of the recessed plinth on which the main body of the speaker sits (which is why, from some angles, it seems to float), and there will be the option of a pair of angled ‘tilt’ stands to help aim the tweeters more overtly at your ears if the system is on your desk. These stands, of course, are a cost option.

There’s not even the option of any grilles, though. Having said that, there’s a hint of visual interest thanks to the identically sized black circles on the front baffle inside which the drivers are positioned which wouldn’t be available if grilles were fitted. Nor is there much to be gained in aesthetic terms by hiding away the orange tweeter or its waveguide, either.

The standard of construction is beyond reproach. The cabinet edges and corners are crisp rather than pointy, the recently updated brand logo at the rear of the top surface looks confident, and the sort-of kind-of matte finish feels as good as it looks in any of the five colors that are available. Take your pick from the white of my review sample, black, a bright orange, a fairly dark green or an unarguably dark blue — or if you don’t object to some extra expenditure, you can choose a real walnut veneer that tackles the L/R S even further into Ruark MR1 Mk3 territory.

Design score: 4.5 / 5

Top panel of a Cambridge L/R S active speaker, next to a plant pot. — (Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Cambridge L/R S review: Usability & setup

Bluetooth LE remote control
Selection of EQ presets
‘DynamEQ’ technology included

First of all, of course, the primary speaker must be plugged into the mains. Then use the supplied 2m length of cable to join the two speakers together (Cambridge is readying a 5m alternative, for which it will naturally want some more money). After that, it’s just a question of establishing the physical or wireless connections you need to make.

There is no control app here, of course — this is not a networked system, after all. Nor are there any physical controls on either of the speakers (except that trio of toggle switches that help orientate the system before it’s running, the on/off power button or to cycle through the inputs), which could be considered an oversight. The only way to control the L/R S is by using the remote control handset that’s supplied in the packaging.

The handset itself is small, made of quite hard plastic and is not backlit but it covers off every function, and because it’s a Bluetooth rather than an RF device it’s far less reliant on having line of sight to the ‘primary’ speaker. It also gives access to a trio of EQ presets: they’re designated ‘normal’, ‘movie’ and ‘voice’.

Cambridge has included its ‘DynamEQ’ technology here, which is a gesture towards automated usability. It’s described as ‘intelligent optimization’, and makes bass and treble adjustments in response to any changes in volume you might indulge in.

Usability & setup score: 4.5 / 5

Remote control for the Cambridge L/R S active speaker system, on a white surface. — (Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Cambridge L/R S review: Value

Excellent sound for the price
Lots of colorways, even if you have to pay extra for the walnut finish
Expansive specification

Judge it in terms of engineering excellence, obvious competence where construction and finish are concerned, and the useful and reasonably expansive nature of its specification, and it’s hard to suggest the Cambridge L/R S doesn’t represent decent value for money.

And when you factor in the sound it’s capable of producing, well, it then starts to put it squarely in the 'market leaders' bracket for active speaker systems.

Value score: 5 / 5

Should I buy Cambridge L/R S?

Cambridge L/R S scorecard
Attribute	Notes	Score
Features	Active system, with USB-C, line-level stereo RCA and digital optical inputs; Bluetooth wireless (with aptX HD codec compatibility).	5 / 5
Sound quality	Expansive, detailed and upfront, but slightly overplays its low-end hand.	5 / 5
Design	Very solid build; six finishes, but walnut is a cost option; no grilles supplied.	4.5 / 5
Setup & usability	Bluetooth LE remote control; trio of EQ presets; no control app.	4.5 / 5
Value	Engineering excellence, plus superb sound, make it a pound-for-pound contender at the price.	5 / 5

Buy them if…

You want a desktop system that can nevertheless fill a room with sound
The L/R S sounds significantly larger than it looks.

You want a full-on system that can sit on a desktop if needs be
See above, but in reverse: despite the scale of its presentation, the physical dimensions of the L/R S make it fine for desktop use.

You’re (almost) all ‘bout that bass
The L/R S is no one-trick pony, but it does like a bit of low-frequency action.

Don’t buy them if…

There are inquisitive people in your home
A lack of grilles can sometimes be an invitation to prying fingers.

You like to turn it up to ‘11’
The Cambridge will play loud, but it’s not at its best this way.

You prefer your speakers in a wood finish
Real walnut is available, but it will cost you.

Cambridge Audio L/R S review: Also consider

Ruark MR1 Mk3
The most obvious alternative to the Cambridge L/R S, it features a phono stage for use with a turntable, it’s available in a real wood veneer at no extra cost, it’s even more compact and desktop-friendly and, most importantly of all, it’s got loads to recommend it where sound quality is concerned. As a powered speaker system of the more common type it’s not quite the Cambridge's technological tour de force, though, and the fixed-grille design could conceivably look a little frumpy next to the crisp minimalism of the L/R S. Here's our full Ruark MR1 Mk3 review.View Deal

How I tested the Cambridge L/R S

I tested the L/R S on a desktop, where it was wired via USB-C to an Apple MacBook Pro running Colibri software.

It was also connected wirelessly to an Apple iPhone 14 Pro (via the AAC codec) and a FiiO M15S (using aptX). It was also tested when positioned on a pair of Custom Design speaker stands and with a (pre-amplified) Technics SL-1300G turntable and Rega Apollo CD player connected to the analog RCAs and the digital optical socket respectively.

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First reviewed: March 2026

I reviewed this delightfully retro DAC dongle and at this price, it’s a punchy and talented no-brainer

1:00 am | February 25, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Gadgets Hi-Fi | Tags: DAC, EQ, LCD | Comments: Off

FiiO KA15: Two-minute review

Is this little teal DAC one of the best headphone DACs around? You bet it is. The FiiO KA15 is the successor to the popular FiiO KA13, and it adds a small color display with a fun audio cassette-style animation during playback. It has high power output in desktop mode that enables it to drive even fairly demanding headphones, and it has both 4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm headphone outputs. The 3.5mm can also be used as an audio output.

One of the big pluses here is wide compatibility with smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktop PCs and handheld games consoles. For some devices such as iPhones you'll need to borrow a computer to configure the 10-band equalizer as FiiO's iPhone app doesn't connect to the KA15, but this is a relatively minor snafu.

I really, thoroughly enjoyed listening to all kinds of music with the KA15. It has a wide soundstage and delivers plenty of detail; it's warm without overly coloring the sound and there are tons of options to sink your teeth (read: ears) into, including switchable amplification modes and digital filtering.

FiiO KA15 review: Price and release date

FiiO KA15 portable DAC photo showing the buttons on the side — (Image credit: Future)

Released September 2024
Priced $99.99 / £99.99 / AU$189.99

The FiiO KA15 was released in September 2024 with a retail price of $99.99 / £99.99 / AU$189.99. It sits just below the flagship KA17 in FiiO's portable DAC line-up.

This is an exceptionally competitive part of the market: it's where iFi has its also five-star GO Link Max DAC, for example. But the combination of low cost and high power output makes the FiiO KA15 very attractive. (As does the fact that it looks like a tiny cassette Walkman. And I stand by that.)

FiiO KA15 review: Features

A photo of the front of the FiiO KA15 portable DAC playing PCM music — (Image credit: Future)

DSD256 and 768kHz/32-bit PCM support
Dual Cirrus CS43198 DACs and SGM8262 op-amps
Unbalanced 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm outputs

The KA15 features dual Cirrus CS43198 DACS and dual SG Micro SGM8262 op-amps. It supports decoding of PCM audio up to 768kHz/32bit and DSD256 and has both 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced outputs designed for headphones with impedances of up to 150 ohms and 300 ohms respectively.

You can toggle key settings such as EQ presets and amp modes via the display and physical buttons, but EQ is best left to the Android app or web control panel where you can also set a 10-band parametric EQ. I've written more about that in the "ease of use and setup" section.

The USB-C audio is switchable between UAC 1.0 and 2.0 for the widest possible compatibility, enabling the KA15 to work not just with smartphones, tablets and laptops but also handheld games consoles and older hardware.

The KA15 runs in two modes: normal and desktop mode. Desktop mode enables it to deliver considerably more power but, as the KA15 takes all of its power from the device it’s connected to, that mode is best suited to mains-powered devices such as desktop PCs and laptops that aren’t running on battery.

In normal mode the KA15 can deliver 50mW per channel into 32 ohms on the 3.5mm output and 170mW on the balanced output. In desktop mode both increase to 180mW per channel and 560mW respectively.

There are a lot of control options to choose from, including: ten EQ presets (three of which are for FiiO IEMs); Class H / Class A/B switching; channel balance; display brightness; display themes; display rotation; and five filters. The filters are non-OS (non-oversampling), Fast-LL (low latency), Fast-PC (phase compensated), Slow-LL, and Slow-PC. The fast filters are recommended for dynamic music and gaming and the slow ones for more complex listening.

Features score: 5 / 5

FiiO KA15 review: Sound quality

The web-based control panel for the FiiO KA15 portable DAC — iPhone users will need to turn to their computer to create personalized EQs. (Image credit: Future)

Excellent warmth, detail and clarity, especially in desktop mode
Customizable amplification and filtering
You may need a computer to customize the EQ

If you're currently listening to your computer's headphone output or have a simple headphone dongle on your phone or tablet, the FiiO KA15 is a significant audio upgrade – especially if you use it on a computer and have it set to desktop mode, which massively increases the output power.

The FiiO KA15 has a neutral sound signature with clean, punchy but not overly exaggerated bass, and you can adjust both the amplification mode and the audio filter settings to suit your preferences. I liked it best in Class A/B mode with filtering set to Slow-PC and the EQ off, which I felt was warmer and slightly more spacious than Class H, fast filtering and any of the preset EQs. However, the lack of an iPhone app or on-board EQ customization was an irritant on IEMs, where many vocals were too sibilant as I turned the volume level up.

Despite listening across multiple genres and decades of music I didn't feel the need to change the EQ or filters with my closed- or open-back over-ears: whether it was U2's 30th anniversary remaster of Achtung Baby, Stevie Wonder's Superstition, Little Simz' Point and Kill, Talk Talk's New Grass or Robyn's Dopamine I had tremendous fun listening loud, hearing previously buried elements in every mix and only encountering distortion around the low end at unsafe listening levels.

The FiiO delivered excellent clarity and detail across genres. The aforementioned Little Simz track was a great example, a thrilling mix of snaking bassline and beautifully close voices; when the backing vocals came in in the second verse my goosebumps got goosebumps.

Sound quality: 5 / 5

FiiO KA15 review: Design

FiiO KA15 portable DAC photographed from the front to show the user interface — (Image credit: Future)

Brushed aluminum with small color LCD
152 x 25 x 11mm (HxWxD)
21g and in case I didn't mention, it looks like a tiny cassette Walkman

The KA15 is slightly smaller than its more powerful sibling, the KA17, and it is a little bit smaller than a standard 9V rectangular battery. Its dimensions are 152mm x 25mm x 11mm and it weighs a titchy 21g, and it comes in a choice of two brushed aluminium finishes: black and a silver/turquoise mix.

Both versions have a large black lozenge on the front with a small 0.96-inch rectangular color LCD display embedded in the centre, and both feature a delightful animation that makes the display mimic a cassette tape complete with moving reels. You can change its colours in the KA15's theme menu. It comes with an extremely short USB-C to USB-C cable designed for use with a phone, and there's an optional MagSafe clip that can snap it to the back of one.

The KA15 looks and feels well-made, and its design is very minimal. There are three tactile buttons on top for navigating the screen and a toggle switch for desktop mode that feels solid. The USB port is on the bottom and the 3.5mm single-ended and balanced 4.4mm outputs are on top. The single-ended output is also switchable to S/PDIF.

Design score: 5 / 5

FiiO KA15 Review: Usability and setup

Plug it in and you're good to go
Interface can be a little fiddly
No iPhone app

The stripped-back design does mean the KA15 is a little fiddly to configure: there are just three buttons taking care of everything. If you hold the KA15 upright, the topmost button is volume up, the middle button is volume down and the lower button is play/pause. Tap that button twice to turn the display on and off, and long-press it to go into the KA15's settings. In that mode the volume buttons move you left and right through menu items and the lower button cycles through each section and confirms your selections.

There is one big problem with the KA15 if you're using it with an iPhone or iPad: you can't customize its 10-band equalizer from the on-board menus, and FiiO's companion iOS app doesn't work with the KA15. That means for iPhone/iPad users you'll need to plug your device into a Mac or PC and use the FiiO Control webpage in a browser such as Opera (Safari on Mac doesn't support the necessary hardware control). This web page enables you to create personal EQs and if you wish, to share your creations with others and vice-versa. It also enables you to download any firmware updates in a process that took me less than one minute.

If you're using a Mac and intend to listen to Hi-Res Audio you'll need to enable higher quality USB output via the Audio MIDI Setup app in your Applications > Utilities folder or your KA15 will be limited to 48kHz audio.

Usability and setup score: 4 / 5

FiiO KA15 review: Value

It's cheap and it'll make you cheerful
A significant audio upgrade for smartphones and computers

If like me you have big audio ambitions and a very small budget, the KA15 is excellent value for money. It's a significant upgrade in sound quality for smartphones and computers, and while it's not as powerful as a desktop headphone amp it has more than enough oomph for a wide range of headphones and IEMs so it's fairly future-proof.

Value score: 5 / 5

Should I buy the FiiO KA15?

Attributes	Notes	Rating
Features	Lots of customization options and wide compatibility	5/5
Design	Solid and portable with tactile controls	5/5
Sound quality	Warm, detailed and crystal clear. Desktop mode is superb.	5/5
Value	A big upgrade with a relatively small price tag	5/5

Buy it if...

You want to power up your phone
If your main music player is your phone then this is an enormous upgrade over Bluetooth or a USB-to-headphone dongle: it puts out more power to drive your headphones and it sounds much more inviting.

You prize portability
The KA15 is exceptionally small and virtually weightless, so it's not an effort to take it traveling.

You don't need a desktop amp
The KA15 is considerably cheaper than FiiO's K11 entry-level desktop DAC/amp, and comes close to the same power output: 560mW to the K11's 660mW.

Don't buy it if...

You've got heavy-duty headphones
While the KA15 is powerful for such a portable device, very demanding headphones will be better paired with a dedicated desktop amp such as the 2,400mW K13 R2R.

FiiO KA15 review: Also consider

If you don't need a screen or high power output, the iFi GO Link Max is even more compact than the KA15, and it's cheaper too. It puts out up to 241mW of power and features dual Sabre DACs.

FiiO makes plenty of other DACs, and if you need something with a higher spec than the KA15 the next step up is the FiiO KA17. That's roughly 30% more expensive and boasts dual ESS ES9069 DACs, maximum output of 650mW per channel and support for DSD512.

Want something just as small and almost as retro-cute, but wireless? Look to the matchbox-sized iFi Go Blu Air.

How I tested the FiiO KA15

Hi-Res FLAC and multitrack Logic Pro projects
Lossless and lossy streaming
Beyerdynamic and Philips over-ears, Soundmagic IEMS

I tested the iFi KA15 over two weeks with a variety of headphones and IEMs including BeyerDynamic DT990 Pro and Philips Fidelio X2HR open-back headphones, DT770 closed-back headphones, and SoundMagic E11C IEMs.

I tested the DAC with music from multiple audio sources including hi-res FLAC files via the Vox music player on Mac; lossy and lossless streaming on desktop, iPhones and iPad; and my own multitrack Logic Pro X music projects.

First reviewed: February 2026
Read TechRadar's reviews guarantee

I reviewed this delightfully retro DAC dongle and at this price, it’s a punchy and talented no-brainer

1:00 am |

Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Gadgets Hi-Fi | Tags: DAC, EQ, LCD | Comments: Off

FiiO KA15: Two-minute review

FiiO KA15 review: Price and release date

Released September 2024
Priced $99.99 / £99.99 / AU$189.99

The FiiO KA15 was released in September 2024 with a retail price of $99.99 / £99.99 / AU$189.99. It sits just below the flagship KA17 in FiiO's portable DAC line-up.

FiiO KA15 review: Features

DSD256 and 768kHz/32-bit PCM support
Dual Cirrus CS43198 DACs and SGM8262 op-amps
Unbalanced 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm outputs

In normal mode the KA15 can deliver 50mW per channel into 32 ohms on the 3.5mm output and 170mW on the balanced output. In desktop mode both increase to 180mW per channel and 560mW respectively.

Features score: 5 / 5

FiiO KA15 review: Sound quality

Excellent warmth, detail and clarity, especially in desktop mode
Customizable amplification and filtering
You may need a computer to customize the EQ

Sound quality: 5 / 5

FiiO KA15 review: Design

Brushed aluminum with small color LCD
152 x 25 x 11mm (HxWxD)
21g and in case I didn't mention, it looks like a tiny cassette Walkman

Design score: 5 / 5

FiiO KA15 Review: Usability and setup

Plug it in and you're good to go
Interface can be a little fiddly
No iPhone app

Usability and setup score: 4 / 5

FiiO KA15 review: Value

It's cheap and it'll make you cheerful
A significant audio upgrade for smartphones and computers

Value score: 5 / 5

Should I buy the FiiO KA15?

Attributes	Notes	Rating
Features	Lots of customization options and wide compatibility	5/5
Design	Solid and portable with tactile controls	5/5
Sound quality	Warm, detailed and crystal clear. Desktop mode is superb.	5/5
Value	A big upgrade with a relatively small price tag	5/5

Buy it if...

You prize portability
The KA15 is exceptionally small and virtually weightless, so it's not an effort to take it traveling.

You don't need a desktop amp
The KA15 is considerably cheaper than FiiO's K11 entry-level desktop DAC/amp, and comes close to the same power output: 560mW to the K11's 660mW.

Don't buy it if...

You've got heavy-duty headphones
While the KA15 is powerful for such a portable device, very demanding headphones will be better paired with a dedicated desktop amp such as the 2,400mW K13 R2R.

FiiO KA15 review: Also consider

If you don't need a screen or high power output, the iFi GO Link Max is even more compact than the KA15, and it's cheaper too. It puts out up to 241mW of power and features dual Sabre DACs.

Want something just as small and almost as retro-cute, but wireless? Look to the matchbox-sized iFi Go Blu Air.

How I tested the FiiO KA15

Hi-Res FLAC and multitrack Logic Pro projects
Lossless and lossy streaming
Beyerdynamic and Philips over-ears, Soundmagic IEMS

First reviewed: February 2026
Read TechRadar's reviews guarantee

AI just made my favorite Skullcandy earbuds worse — and I’m not sure anyone asked for it

7:30 pm | February 18, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Earbuds & Airpods Gadgets Headphones | Tags: AI, ANC, EQ | Comments: Off

Skullcandy Method 540 ANC: Two minute review

For all that companies try to squirrel AI chatbots into every gadget possible, I’ve yet to see many buyers who genuinely want this kind of addition. In fact more often than not, the infiltration of artificial intelligence makes the tech worse — many companies are starting to realize this and take a step back. But there’s now a new victim of the AI war: the Skullcandy Method 540.

For context, let’s look at some earbuds that would have gotten onto our list of the best cheap earbuds if not for how competitive 2025 was. I’m talking about the Skullcandy Method 360, which were some of my favorite buds of the year: they fit great, sounded fun and were fairly affordable. The 540 are the updated model of 360, with Skullcandy apparently not taking a leaf from Microsoft’s naming playbook – don’t get your hopes up for a Method One and then Method Series X, then.

New models should, ostensibly, bring upgrades over the previous iterations. However the Skullcandy Method 540 have the same design, drivers and carry case design as the previous model. They’re incredibly similar buds, yet cost about 25% more.

So what’s actually new? Well, there are a few tiny tweaks here and there, but the flagship ‘feature’ is compatibility with Skull AI. This is Skullcandy’s AI assistant, built on Bragi AI which in turn is built on Open AI. So for all intents and purposes, you’re paying more for a built-in chat-bot…

…except that you’re not, because Skull AI is available as a separate subscription, which you have to pay for either monthly, at $4.99 / £4.99, or annually (at $49.99 / £49.99). Skull AI is one of the better AI chatbot names I've heard, but I'm not including an evaluation of the chatbot itself in this review: it’s very much a separate, optional product to the Method 540.

If you use AI chatbots, perhaps the Method 540 is worth considering, but the vast majority of buyers are going to wonder if there are any other spec improvements to justify that price bump, or if this is another case of AI implementation taking precedence over actual upgrades. Spoiler alert: it’s the latter.

The specs are identical – in fact, I copied and pasted the specs table from my 360 review to save time. In some cases, keeping things similar is great: the buds are comfortable and fit incredibly well, making them great for runners or gym-goers. In some cases, an upgrade was needed: I liked the Method 360’s sound, but budget buds have come on leaps and bounds in just one year, and the Method 540 aren’t as competitive.

Since I gave last year’s Skullcandy earbuds four stars, and these are basically the same thing, some might be wondering where half a star went. That was removed because the Method 360 was good for the price, and the 540 price hike makes them a less appealing prospect.

Given the increased cost, the lack of upgrades and the shoehorned AI mode, it’s just hard to get as enthused about the Method 540. And so it’s harder to recommend them, given how many low-cost rivals there are in 2026.

Skullcandy Method 540 ANC review: Specifications

Component	Value
Water resistant	IPX4
Battery life (quoted)	11 hours (earbuds), 29 hours (total)
Bluetooth type	Bluetooth 5.3
Weight	11g / Charging case: 72g
Driver	12mm

Skullcandy Method 540 ANC review: Price and availability

The Skullcandy Method 540 buds on a table. — (Image credit: Future)

Announced in January 2026
RRP $149.99 / £129.99 (roughly AU$250)
Skull AI costs $4.99 monthly

The Skullcandy Method 540 ANC were unveiled on January 8, 2026, at the annual CES tech conference. That release falls only nine months after the release of the Method 360.

You can pick up the earbuds for $149.99 / £129.99 (roughly AU$250, though there’s no word on an Australian release just yet). That’s a notable price hike over the Method 360, which sold for $119 / £99 / AU$189, and are even cheaper now thanks to some discounts.

That retail price doesn’t even take into account the monthly cost of Skull AI. Access to this AI assistant costs $4.99 per month or $49.99 per year – regional pricing wasn’t available at the time of this review – but it’s worth noting that Skull AI is optional and starts with a 3-month free trial.

Skullcandy Method 540 ANC review: Design

The Skullcandy Method 540 carry case, closed. — Future

The Skullcandy Method 540 carry case, open and with the buds inside. — Future

Chunky carry case
Incredibly reliable in-ear fit
Only black or white options

You know how wireless earbuds makers constantly one-up each other to make svelte little carry cases? Skullcandy didn’t miss the memo – it received it, laughed at it, screwed it up into a ball and threw it away. The Method 540 buds come in a tube, and you slide out the central column to reveal them.

The 360 used the same mechanism, although it’s a little thinner this time around: it measures 3.6 x 2.9 x 10.2 cm, and weighs 72g. At the time of writing, the buds only come in black or white, but Skullcandy often releases funky colors for its products, and hopefully it’ll follow for the 540.

This is not a convenient way to carry earbuds – the monolith doesn’t fit well in trouser pockets. But honestly, I don’t mind – I ended up just putting it in my jacket or bag instead. Perhaps I’ve grown used to these chunky cases from testing other such buds, or maybe petite carry cases are overrated. Plus, a magnetic mechanism makes sure it stays shut tight when not in use, a carry hook means you can attach them to your keys or bag, and unlike in the 360 the charging port is out in the open.

The Skullcandy Method 540 earbud, incorrectly placed in the carry case. — Evidence of how easily-bendable the hook is. (Image credit: Future)

My biggest annoyance with the old model remains, though: putting the buds in the case isn’t convenient, as you have to put them in, in a very particular fashion. It takes quite a bit of maneuvering and flipping to make sure they’re in right, and quite often I’d only realise I’d bungled the job when the case wouldn’t shut properly.

Skullcandy has trimmed the fat of its carry case, but it hasn’t touched the earbuds from the last-gen models – and it didn’t need to. Like the 360, the buds fit snugly and reliably, thanks in part to the grippy eartip material, but mostly due to the fins which wedge the buds into your ear. I went for runs with the buds and took them to the gym, and they never threatened to fall out.

They’re not that light, at 11g, or protected, with IPX4 (no protection against dust, only protected against splashes). But they’re not going to fall out into a puddle thanks to the lovely fit, so it doesn’t really matter.

Each bud has touch controls if you tap on their body, which generally felt okay to use, once I got used to tapping the right spot.

Design score: 3.5/5

Skullcandy Method 540 ANC review: Features

The Skullcandy Method 540 earbud, showing the back. — (Image credit: Future)

ANC is solid, not best-in-class
Battery life is above average: 11 hours from the buds/29 including the case
App misses some basic features

Technically, these buds are sold as the Skullcandy Method 540 ANC, and so naturally these buds have Active Noise Cancellation. It’s no more advanced than on the 360: pretty solid, but not best-in-class. Loud noises will cut above the silence, though the background hum of city life will get stripped away.

Stay-Aware falls into the trap that many transparency or surround-hearing modes do, in that it seemingly amplifies more than it strips. Thankfully, Skullcandy has included an Intensity slider in the app, so you can turn down its effects.

According to Skullcandy, the Method 540 lasts for 9 hours with ANC on, or 11 hours with it off, and I’d concur with those estimates. That goes up to 23 or 29 hours when factoring in the extra power offered by the case. And that's good, honestly – any earbuds capable of lasting over 7 hours with ANC on represent above-average stamina.

The Skullcandy Method 540's buds, in a man's hand. — (Image credit: Future)

You’re required to download and use the Skull-iQ app in order to use the 540’s extra features – not the standard Skullcandy one, something I only discovered after downloading the wrong one. I made the exact same error with the 360, but if I say it now, hopefully I save a few of you from making the same mistake.

The app lets you toggle ANC modes, play with a 5-band equalizer, turn on low-latency mode, use the earbuds as a remote phone camera trigger, enable Spotify Tap or set up multipoint pairing. Oh, and the main menu has two separate options for Skull AI. Notably missing perks include the ability to customize touch controls, any kind of fit or listening tests or a find-my-earbuds feature. Any one of these would be a more useful addition than an AI chatbot, as would a more advanced equalizer, or extra presets beyond the three available.

During testing, I had a few temporary Bluetooth drop-outs, but they all resolved themselves quickly.

Features score: 3.5/5

Skullcandy Method 540 ANC review: Sound performance

The Skullcandy Method 540 buds, in a man's ear. — (Image credit: Future)

12mm drivers and Bose tuning
Less bassy than Skullcandy norm
EQ tweaking is mandatory

On paper, the Skullcandy Method 540 match their predecessors in terms of audio specs: 12mm drivers, tuning by Bose, and a total lack of support for any Bluetooth or high-res streaming codecs.

It’s fair to say I was complimentary of the 360’s sound, but I can’t quite say the same about the 540. Partly, it could be because my ears have been spoiled by some fantastic budget rivals in the last year. But there also seem to be tuning differences too.

Skullcandy has a reputation for offering bass-heavy products, something that’s levelled either as a criticism or high praise, depending on the listener. People who sit in the former camp probably haven’t read this far into the review. The Method 540, however, seem to buck this trend. Simply put, they're not all about that bass.

These buds are relatively and surprisingly neutral for Skullcandy products. Treble is more powerful, the low end is sensibly is pared-back, mids are… well, we can’t hope for miracles. This new face would be an interesting twist, except that it reveals that there’s not much else going on under the surface.

The Skullcandy Method 540 carry case with an earbud inside. — (Image credit: Future)

Songs sound a little flat, with nothing to replace the lost bass injection, to add a little energy into proceedings. And it sounds like the top was lopped off to the detriment of some treble frequencies and musical passages; hi-hats, guitar stings and vocal flourishes do sound compressed.

There’s a lack of a meaningful soundstage, so instruments are tripping over each other to be head. When you listen to songs like Wake Up by Arcade Fire, or All My Friends by The Revivalists, what should be an encompassing cacophony of noise sounds more like a music track being played from a phone. I checked out Atmosphere by Joy Division after it was featured in The History of Sound, and even in the remastered version, it sounded like Ian Curtis was playing every single instrument. What about some noughties rock, right in Skullcandy’s core demographic? The guitar riffs of Yellowcard’s Ocean Avenue sounded heavy and dull – even if the wall of sound of the chorus picked up the energy a little.

Saving the Method 540 is the app. I always listened on Bass Boost, which went some way in restoring the Skullcandy sound – these things have the capability for decent bass if you can coax it out. I also dabbled with the equalizer. Though it only has five bands, it lets you add a bit of needed chutzpah to music. And the max volume is still high, so you can rock out at max power.

Sound performance score: 3.5/5

Skullcandy Method 540 ANC review: Value

If you’ve been paying close attention, you’ll have noticed that the Skullcandy Method 540 earbuds don’t offer that many upgrades over the 360… well, other than the higher price, and optional chatbot.

Given that it’s basically the same product, but for about 25% more, the Method 540 don't feel like they offer great value for money. That’s doubly true given that the older buds have seen price cuts of around 30% off, depending on where you live.

Value score: 3/5

Skullcandy Method 540 ANC review: scorecard

Category	Comment	Score
Value	Their feature set and sound quality aren't quite justified by the price tag, especially with the 360 on the market.	3/5
Design	The tip and fin make the Skullcandy incredibly sturdy in the ear, though the case is pretty chunky.	3.5/5
Features	Above-average battery life and okay ANC are good, but there are a few missing features.	3.5/5
Sound	The sound lacks a little luster that was present in previous Method buds.	3.5/5

Skullcandy Method 540 ANC: Should I buy?

The Skullcandy Method 540 earbud, with another bud and the case in the background. — (Image credit: Future)

Buy them if...

You need a reliable in-ear fit
These things won't fall out. Which makes them perfect for doing sit-ups in a gym, or running up hills.

You need solid battery life
Battery life is always an important feature, and the Method 540 last longer than most others at this price, especially with ANC off.

You want an AI chatbot in your ear
I didn't test Skull AI, but it's likely as reliable as other chatbots. Prepare for mounting costs, though.

Don't buy them if...

You can still find the Method 360 available
Even if not on sale, the Method 360 are preferable. They're basically the same, but cost less.

You want a tiny carry case
These aren't your easily-pocketable buds. They're not designed for trouser pockets.

Also consider

Component	Skullcandy Method 540 ANC	Skullcandy Method 360	Cambridge Audio Melomania A100
Water resistant	IPX4	IPX4	IPX5
Battery life (ANC off)	11 hours (earbuds), 29 hours (total)	11 hours (earbuds), 29 hours (total)	11 hours (buds); 39 hours (case)
Bluetooth type	Bluetooth 5.3	Bluetooth 5.3	Bluetooth 5.4
Weight	11g (buds) 72g (case)	11g (buds) 77g (case)	4.7g (buds) 38.7g (case)
Driver	12mm	12mm	10mm

Skullcandy Method 360
I've talked about them in this review almost as much as the 540. They're incredibly similar in terms of specs and design; a slightly different-shaped case, lack of AI, range of color options and lower price make this an even more tempting prospect.
Read our full Skullcandy Method 360 review

Cambridge Audio Melomania A100
For the same price as the Method 540, you can get these five-star earbuds. They sound fantastic, have great ANC and last ages on a single charge. You don't mind that they look a little boring, do you?
Read our full Cambridge Audio Melomania A100 review

How I tested

I used the Skullcandy Method 540 ANC for three weeks before writing this review.

The headphones were paired to a OnePlus phone for the entirety of the testing process. I listened to music from Spotify and Qobuz, played various games, conducted several video and voice calls, watched Netflix and listened to voice notes using them. Testing took place at home, while on runs, during cycling (Stay Aware mode, of course), at the gym, on various public transports, and on walks around different areas of my city.

I've been reviewing gadgets for TechRadar since 2019, including countless low-cost and mid-range headphones. That includes, of course, the Method 360 earbuds, as well as the Crusher 540 Active over-ears from Skullcandy.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed: February 2026

I tested the earbuds that morph from workout headphones to open ‘buds and it works — but that’s only half the story

2:30 pm | February 1, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Earbuds & Airpods Gadgets Headphones | Tags: ANC, EQ | Comments: Off

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro: Two minute review

Usually, when I review a product with a brand-new feature, I use that function for about a week before the novelty wears off. The Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro may not be the best earbuds I’ve ever tested, but I’ve been using its key selling point constantly over the testing period, and that at least says something.

Are they a pair of open earbuds? Or are they a pair of standard workout headphones? Yes and yes – these new hearables from Anker’s audio-visual sub-brand Soundcore do both. The bud’s body is adjustable in relation to its loop: you can have them as standard sports buds, or raise the bud somewhat so it’s further out of your ear. Ta-da, you have open earbuds.

In theory, you get the best of both worlds. Put them in open-ear mode and you enjoy your listening while still hearing what’s going on around you. Flick them into standard mode and you can hear your music with no distractions from outside, thanks in part to ANC turning on.

When I first reported on the buds, I guessed that they could be the best fitness earbuds of the year – it’s safe to say I was cautiously optimistic about them. The function is useful: I’d run along a busy road in open mode and close it when I reached a quieter park, or keep it open when cycling to the gym and close it when I got there.

A home-run, then? Not quite – these are the first earbuds I’ve ever seen trying out a form factor like this, and myriad teething problems plague the buds. I don’t think they are the best fitness headphones of the year any more, but it’s still a valiant effort.

Take, for example, the design. The buds aren’t that far from your ear when in open mode, so don’t let in nearly as much sound as rivals. But due to having AirPods-style tip-less ends, the Aerofits aren’t fully in your ear when in ANC mode, and so don’t actually cancel that much sound.

Image 1 of 2

The Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro in a man's hand, in open mode. — (Image credit: Future)

Image 2 of 2

The Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro in a man's hand, in ANC mode. — (Image credit: Future)

The loop material is also quite flimsy, so the buds wobble a lot, and the buttons are hard to press when in ANC mode (but, admittedly, very easy in open mode).

You need to play around in the settings to get the best of the Aerofit 2 Pro too. The default EQ preset, Soundcore Signature, goes for a misshapen V-shaped sound profile which sounds pretty wonky; go into the equalization menu straight away. The Intelligent Noise Cancellation feature also gets in the way, by messing with your sound constantly; turn this off too.

You probably wouldn’t be buying adjustable buds like this if you weren’t okay with some tweaking, though; just know that you’ll have to be doing it quite a bit.

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro review: Specifications

Component	Value
Water resistant	IP55
Battery life	7 hours (earbuds), 34 hours (total)
Bluetooth type	Bluetooth 6.1
Weight	11g / Charging case: 109g
Driver	11.8mm

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro review: Price and availability

The Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro case. — (Image credit: Future)

Released on January 6, 2026
Priced at $179.99 / £179.99 (roughly AU$350)
Paying a premium for the novelty

Anker unveiled the Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro at CES 2026 in the first week of the year, and put them on sale immediately after. Perfect for your new year’s fitness resolution.

The earbuds cost $179.99 / £179.99 (roughly AU$350, but they don’t seem to have joined Soundcore’s line-up in Australia). That’s the official price, but mere weeks after release, I’ve seen them discounted by $30 in the US and £10 in the UK.

As open earbuds go, that price is on the higher side of things, but you’re paying to be the first to test this novel kind of tech.

It’s a little higher than the launch price of the first Aerofit Pro, but that device plummeted in price over two years, and we could see the new model drop to similar lows over time.

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro review: Design

Image 1 of 2

The Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro in a man's ear, in open mode. — (Image credit: Future)

Image 2 of 2

The Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro in a man's ear, in ANC mode. — (Image credit: Future)

Easy to switch between open- and closed-ear fit
Weak loop and heavy earpiece affect wear
IP55 protection, comes in black, white or purple

I’ve already described the Aerofit 2 Pro’s transforming gimmick; but how does it work? Basically, the sports loop connects to the driver housing via a connector that can be moved around five different settings; each one results in a different angle for the earpiece to sit at, relative to your ear. At the furthest extent, said headshell sits right in your ear, and at the opposite extent it’s hovering high above it. The first two are ANC (in-ear) mode, the latter two open mode, and the middle one is something in between.

I was skeptical about this, but functionally it works really well. Quickly I became adept at opening or closing the buds while they were in my ear, and in no time I was doing so without breaking my stride while on a run. Unfortunately, basically everything about this design (other than the ease of switching) poses problems.

The key one problem is the loop, made out of a thin silicone which just isn’t rigid enough to hold the earbuds in place. When I was running or working out with the buds, I often found that the battery-bearing counterweights would wobble. It was especially noticeable when in ANC mode. They never fell out, but it was an annoying sensation.

This is exacerbated by the buds’ weight. At 11g each, they’re the heaviest than any other open earbuds I remember testing.

The Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro on a ledge. — (Image credit: Future)

The tip-less design brings with it another problem: the sound leakage on these things, especially in open mode, is significant. Your gym peers will definitely hear what you’re listening to.

Each bud has a button. No, not a sensor or an area you tap and pray something happened: an honest-to-God area that you press in and hear a satisfying ‘click’. Lovely. It’s really easy and simple to use when the bud is in open mode, however when in ANC mode, I found that the pressure needed to press the button instead just pushed it into my ear.

Now that I’m complaining about things: the material used for the end of the bud is a dirt magnet. When it’s in the case or ear it’s fine, but when I put the buds in my pocket or dropped them on the floor, they quickly picked up fluff and particles that were quite hard to clean off. That’s all to say: excuse the review images, I tried my best.

This section is already far too long, but let’s briefly touch on the case. It’s certainly on the big side, even for sports-hook earbuds, and it weighs 109g (including the buds). It has some neat touches: an LED bar gives you an indication of how much charge you have left, and the case also facilitates wireless charging.

Design score: 3.5/5

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro review: Features

The Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro in a man's hand. — (Image credit: Future)

Little noise is cancelled due to design and the ANC algorithm
Battery life is 7 / 34 hours with ANC on
Several app features including handy EQ presets

Why have I been calling one form of the Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro ‘ANC mode’? That’ll be because when you’re at these extensions, noise cancellation will turn on, ostensibly stopping as much surrounding sound as possible from entering your ears. An anti-open-ear mode, so to speak.

However, the Aerofit run into the same problem as the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC: there’s no rubbery ear tip to create a natural sound-blocking seal, and so the noise cancellation is fighting an impossibly steep uphill battle from the outset. It doesn’t win the battle, and it’s very easy to hear surrounding sounds in this mode – I can hear myself typing this sentence over fairly loud music. It’s not a totally lost cause, and sounds are made quieter, but there’s little meaningful difference between open mode and ANC mode.

ANC mode may do more harm than it’s worth, though, because of Soundcore’s adjustable ANC. This is designed to automatically adjust noise cancellation and many earbuds have similar modes, but on the Soundcore, it had too dramatic an effect on the sound. Frequently, I’d hear dramatic shifts in listening volume or sound profile, and sometimes the volume wouldn’t be able to go very high to compensate for the ANC. On my first run with the buds, I was frustrated with how quiet the max volume was – until I realized it was the noise cancellation running amok. Thankfully this mode can be turned off.

Soundcore puts the battery life of the buds at 7 hours in open-ear mode and 5 hours with ANC turned on. My testing suggests these figures could be a little conservative, so I’m not going to knock the buds like I normally would with 5-hour listening time buds.

The Soundcore app brings a few extra features to the earbuds. These include the ability to customize what the touch controls do, a low-latency and a Spatial Audio mode, an equalizer and the ability to make ANC toggling manual instead of automatic.

The equalizer has a healthy selection of presets, most of which make meaningful adjustments to the sound, and there’s also an eight-band custom option too. I particularly like the Volume Booster preset, which doesn’t exactly sound fantastic, but it gives the buds that extra ‘oomph’ that you need with open buds when venturing somewhere noisy.

Pairing the buds to my phone was quick and easy, however I did have the occasional stuttering and connection dropping problems during testing.

Features score: 3/5

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro review: Sound performance

Single 10.8mm driver
Music sounds lifeless
Lovely, high max volume

There’s a custom-built 11.8mm driver in each of the Aerofits. Their most impressive feature, though, may be the support for Bluetooth 6.1, which is more advanced than most smartphones you’d be pairing the buds with. That pairs with Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification and a support for LDAC.

When I first started listening to the Aerofit 2 Pro, I was in a quiet home and listening on ANC mode, and I was impressed by a few aspects. There’s decent spacing between instruments, and enough detail to hear the timbre of instruments. Lovely, and unexpected for fitness earbuds like these. However I made the critical mistake of listening to the Soundcore Signature EQ preset for much of my testing period.

This doesn’t sound great: it elevates treble, mutes bass and drops mids almost entirely, like V-shaped sound profile with a lop-sided ‘V’. Uncle Kracker’s In A Little While had distorted guitar that sounded like a fan with a scrap of paper stuck in it, while the chorus of Five More Minutes by The War and Treaty sounded like a duet between vocals and a lawnmower. And treble was far too prominent: Don McCloskey’s First In Flight was constantly jump-scaring me with brass stings.

However, jumping into the EQ preset menu let me salvage my listening experience; I’d recommend buyers to switch straight to ‘Balanced’, or one of the genre-based EQs if you only listen to one kind of music. Balanced levels out that ‘V’ into much more of a flat line, so you can enjoy the high-quality audio without any line or instrument being overwritten.

Max volume for the buds is pretty loud, especially on Volume Booster, but the auto-ANC mode can put a pretty significant upper limit; turn this off.

Sound performance score: 4/5

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro review: Value

The Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro next to their case. — (Image credit: Future)

Novelty form factor aside, the Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro go for quite a high price, compared to other open earbuds you’d be considering. These aren’t a budget option by any stretch of the imagination – I’d go so far as to call them premium, given that relatively few options exist above the $/£200 threshold.

All considered, it feels a little hard to recommend them for the price – you’re paying for the privilege of testing a new form factor of headphone, not for an especially competitive feature set or sound quality. You're not being ripped off exactly, but it's not a competitive price.

If you can find the Aerofit 2 Pro discounted, though, they’d be well worth considering. They don’t even need an especially meaty price cut; the minor discount already available is a good start.

Value score: 3.5/5

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro review: scorecard

Category	Comment	Score
Value	The Aerofit's price matches some premium alternatives.	3.5/5
Design	The two-in-one design and switching works well; some other elements don't.	3.5/5
Features	The ANC doesn't work too well and the battery life isn't fantastic, although the app brings some nice additions.	3/5
Sound	Play around with the settings enough, and you can get detailed, expansive audio that'll surprise you compared to other fitness buds.	4/5

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro: Should I buy?

The Huawei FreeClip 2 buds in a case, leaning on a zippo lighter. — (Image credit: Future)

Buy them if...

The 2-in-1 gimmick appeals
Think you want buds that switch between open and standard sports earbuds? You won't be disappointed by how Anker does it.

You want treble-first sound
The Aerofit aren't bassy buds, and they'll appeal to people who prefer hearing lyrics, spoken words or guitar solos.

You appreciate wireless charging
We don't see wireless charging available on many earbuds cases, especially sports-specific ones. If you like the feature, the Aerofit have you covered.

Don't buy them if...

You have noise that needs cancelling
Even in ANC mode, the noise cancellation of the Aerofit isn't competitive.

You won't use the 2-in-1 design
You're paying a premium for the novel form factor of the Aerofit. If you don't think you'll use it enough, other options will give you more value for money.

Also consider

Component	Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro	Shokz OpenFit 2+	Huawei FreeArc
Water resistant	IP55	IP55	IP57
Battery life	7 hours (earbuds), 34 hours (total)	11 hours (earbuds), 48 hours (total)	7 hours (earbuds), 23 hours (total)
Bluetooth type	Bluetooth 6.1	Bluetooth 5.4	Bluetooth 5.2
Weight	11g / Charging case: 109g	9.4g / Charging case: 56g	8.9g / Charging case: 67g
Driver	11.8mm	17.3mm	17mm x 12mm

Shokz OpenFit 2+

Our favorite open earbuds right now come from Shokz, and they offer the full package: a stable fit, great sound quality and a solid feature set. Best of all, they either match or undercut the Soundcore depending on where you live.

Read our full Shokz OpenFit 2+ review

Huawei FreeArc

Want an affordable alternative? The Huawei FreeArc cost half the price of the Soundcore, and have fantastic sound. The case is small and the buds fit well.

Read our full Huawei FreeArc review

How I tested

I tested the Anker Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro for just over two weeks in order to write this review. During this time, they were paired with my Android smartphone.

In that time, I used the Soundcore on runs, at the gym and on cylces. But because of their dual-purpose design, also treated them as my everyday headphones in that time, so I listened at home, on public transport, and on walks around my neighborhood. Most of the testing was done on Spotify, YouTube and Prime Video's apps.

I've tested plenty of open earbuds for TechRadar over the last few years, as the audio segment has emerged, as well as countless other earbuds and headphones.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed: February 2026

I tested the earbuds that morph from workout headphones to open ‘buds and it works — but that’s only half the story

2:30 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Earbuds & Airpods Gadgets Headphones | Tags: ANC, EQ | Comments: Off

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro: Two minute review

Image 1 of 2

Image 2 of 2

The loop material is also quite flimsy, so the buds wobble a lot, and the buttons are hard to press when in ANC mode (but, admittedly, very easy in open mode).

You probably wouldn’t be buying adjustable buds like this if you weren’t okay with some tweaking, though; just know that you’ll have to be doing it quite a bit.

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro review: Specifications

Component	Value
Water resistant	IP55
Battery life	7 hours (earbuds), 34 hours (total)
Bluetooth type	Bluetooth 6.1
Weight	11g / Charging case: 109g
Driver	11.8mm

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro review: Price and availability

Released on January 6, 2026
Priced at $179.99 / £179.99 (roughly AU$350)
Paying a premium for the novelty

Anker unveiled the Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro at CES 2026 in the first week of the year, and put them on sale immediately after. Perfect for your new year’s fitness resolution.

As open earbuds go, that price is on the higher side of things, but you’re paying to be the first to test this novel kind of tech.

It’s a little higher than the launch price of the first Aerofit Pro, but that device plummeted in price over two years, and we could see the new model drop to similar lows over time.

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro review: Design

Image 1 of 2

Image 2 of 2

Easy to switch between open- and closed-ear fit
Weak loop and heavy earpiece affect wear
IP55 protection, comes in black, white or purple

This is exacerbated by the buds’ weight. At 11g each, they’re the heaviest than any other open earbuds I remember testing.

The tip-less design brings with it another problem: the sound leakage on these things, especially in open mode, is significant. Your gym peers will definitely hear what you’re listening to.

Design score: 3.5/5

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro review: Features

Little noise is cancelled due to design and the ANC algorithm
Battery life is 7 / 34 hours with ANC on
Several app features including handy EQ presets

Pairing the buds to my phone was quick and easy, however I did have the occasional stuttering and connection dropping problems during testing.

Features score: 3/5

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro review: Sound performance

Single 10.8mm driver
Music sounds lifeless
Lovely, high max volume

Max volume for the buds is pretty loud, especially on Volume Booster, but the auto-ANC mode can put a pretty significant upper limit; turn this off.

Sound performance score: 4/5

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro review: Value

If you can find the Aerofit 2 Pro discounted, though, they’d be well worth considering. They don’t even need an especially meaty price cut; the minor discount already available is a good start.

Value score: 3.5/5

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro review: scorecard

Category	Comment	Score
Value	The Aerofit's price matches some premium alternatives.	3.5/5
Design	The two-in-one design and switching works well; some other elements don't.	3.5/5
Features	The ANC doesn't work too well and the battery life isn't fantastic, although the app brings some nice additions.	3/5
Sound	Play around with the settings enough, and you can get detailed, expansive audio that'll surprise you compared to other fitness buds.	4/5

Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro: Should I buy?

Buy them if...

The 2-in-1 gimmick appeals
Think you want buds that switch between open and standard sports earbuds? You won't be disappointed by how Anker does it.

You want treble-first sound
The Aerofit aren't bassy buds, and they'll appeal to people who prefer hearing lyrics, spoken words or guitar solos.

You appreciate wireless charging
We don't see wireless charging available on many earbuds cases, especially sports-specific ones. If you like the feature, the Aerofit have you covered.

Don't buy them if...

You have noise that needs cancelling
Even in ANC mode, the noise cancellation of the Aerofit isn't competitive.

You won't use the 2-in-1 design
You're paying a premium for the novel form factor of the Aerofit. If you don't think you'll use it enough, other options will give you more value for money.

Also consider

Component	Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro	Shokz OpenFit 2+	Huawei FreeArc
Water resistant	IP55	IP55	IP57
Battery life	7 hours (earbuds), 34 hours (total)	11 hours (earbuds), 48 hours (total)	7 hours (earbuds), 23 hours (total)
Bluetooth type	Bluetooth 6.1	Bluetooth 5.4	Bluetooth 5.2
Weight	11g / Charging case: 109g	9.4g / Charging case: 56g	8.9g / Charging case: 67g
Driver	11.8mm	17.3mm	17mm x 12mm

Shokz OpenFit 2+

Read our full Shokz OpenFit 2+ review

Huawei FreeArc

Want an affordable alternative? The Huawei FreeArc cost half the price of the Soundcore, and have fantastic sound. The case is small and the buds fit well.

Read our full Huawei FreeArc review

How I tested

I tested the Anker Soundcore Aerofit 2 Pro for just over two weeks in order to write this review. During this time, they were paired with my Android smartphone.

I've tested plenty of open earbuds for TechRadar over the last few years, as the audio segment has emerged, as well as countless other earbuds and headphones.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed: February 2026

This pocket-sized Bluetooth speaker takes aim at the JBL Go 4 — but sadly, 3 key flaws hold it back

1:56 pm | January 8, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Gadgets Hi-Fi Wireless & Bluetooth Speakers | Tags: EQ | Comments: Off

Tribit PocketGo: two-minute review

The Tribit PocketGo is an ultra-small Bluetooth speaker that comes with an equally small price tag. It’s lightweight, can be easily hooked up, and is ideal for on the go use thanks to its pocket-sized form.

But there are even more positives worth pointing to. For instance, this model has exceptional IP68 dust and waterproofing, meaning its fit for just about any environment, be that your shower, a pool, the beach… you name it. It's also fairly sturdy, so should survive the occasional drop.

One more positive is the model’s 20 hour battery life, which is right up there with the best Bluetooth speakers in its size class. Unfortunately, though, this is where much of my praise reaches its end.

See, the most important thing for any Bluetooth speaker is to sound good. And even when accounting for this speaker's limited size, I still think it falls flat in a few areas. Of course, you’re not going to expect much in the bass department, but I felt that audio could get muddied too easily on the PocketGo, with a generally one-note sound. Compression is also pretty prominent at higher volumes, and dynamics are pretty lacking.

Don’t get me wrong, the Tribit PocketGo isn’t the worst sounding speaker I’ve heard, not by some margin. Mids and highs still sound clear enough at mid-volumes, and less demanding tracks come through pretty well. But its obvious rival – the JBL Go 4 – sounds considerably better, and comes at a pretty similar cost.

Speaking of the JBL Go 4, it's clear that it was a huge source of inspiration for Tribit’s small-sized speaker. The two models look highly similar, but Tribit’s speaker doesn’t quite have the same level of refinement, and isn’t available in the same broad, exciting array of colors.

It’s not all doom and gloom, though. There’s an effective nine-band equalizer and a commendable selection of EQ presets. I was also interested to see microSD playback onboard – not something you’d see from a lot of rivals.

But in the end, it just feels as if the PocketGo fails to beat out its hero, the JBL Go 4. It doesn’t have the visual flair, the audio quality, or the sophisticated app required to assert supremacy. And as a result, I can’t recommend Tribit’s small speaker outright.

Fabric hook on the Tribit PocketGo — (Image credit: Future)

Tribit PocketGo review: price and release date

$34.99 / £29.99 / AU$49.99
Launched in November 2025

The Tribit PocketGo released in November 2025, and can be purchased in a range of color options, including Black, Blue, and Green. It has a list price of $34.99 / £29.99 / AU$49.99, which is a fair bit cheaper than the typical cost of its main competitor, the JBL Go 4, which is $49.95 / £39.99 / AU$59.95.

It's worth noting that Tribit isn't alone in wanting to offer the Go 4 for less; another option we tested, the AO mini portable wireless speaker, tried (in the UK at least) to match JBL's option for a cheaper £29 (around $34). But sadly, neither has fully succeeded…

Tribit PocketGo review: specs

Weight	0.5lbs / 220g
Dimensions	4.3 x 3.2 x 1.7 inches / 108 x 81 x 42mm
Connectivity	Bluetooth 6.0
Battery life	20 hours
Speaker drivers	1x 7W full range
Waterproofing	IP68

Tribit PocketGo review: features

Pleasing customizable EQ options
Impressive 20-hour battery life
Multi-speaker pairing, but no Auracast

The Tribit PocketGo has a decent set of features, with a few customization features available through the Tribit companion app. This opens up a bunch of EQ presets for different genres and listening environments, as well as a nine-band custom equalizer, which is a most welcome inclusion.

There’s not much more to explore in the app, though. You can control audio playback, alter the auto shutdown window, and toggle voice prompts on and off, but that’s about it. There are no battery preservation options, device management section, or anything out of the ordinary. I was also surprised to see Auracast left out, especially given the use of Bluetooth 6.0. You can pair two speakers together for stereo playback, though.

Another small thing worth noting is that the app isn’t the best I’ve used. It has a fairly rudimentary appearance, and I also experienced an issue where the app wouldn’t allow me to upgrade the speaker’s firmware. It believed that I wasn’t using the latest version of the companion software, but even after updating the app, I still couldn’t upgrade to the latest firmware, which was puzzling.

Anyway, your mileage may vary on that issue, and there are still plenty of good features to discuss. For instance, hands-free calling is available on the PocketGo thanks to its built-in mic. Quality-wise, the mic is just OK – a colleague said that I sounded pretty distant, but my words were still discernible. But one good thing is that the built-in mic enables you to use a voice assistant, which some users will appreciate.

One of the key benefits of the PocketGo is also its battery life. 20 hours is a very generous portion of playtime for a speaker of this size, though it’s worth noting that you can expect less if you’re listening at more than 50% volume. Still, 20 hours is almost three times the battery life of the JBL Go 4, which is the PocketGo’s nearest rival.

Finally, you’re able to play music from a microSD card thanks to a TF card input slot on the speaker. This isn’t something I’ve seen from a lot of rival models, and though it doesn’t seem to be the most practical way to enjoy your tunes, playback was stable when I tested it out.

Features score: 3.5/5

Buttons on top of the Tribit PocketGo — (Image credit: Future)

Tribit PocketGo review: sound quality

Mid-range and treble perform decently at mid-volume
Bass is lacking, largely due to restricted size
Lacks the dynamism and expression of the JBL Go 4

I’ll put my cards on the table – the Tribit PocketGo isn’t the best-sounding speaker I’ve tested, but it does have some redeeming qualities.

When listening to Black Eye by Allie X, the rapid-fire drum machine never sounded lethargic or bloated, although it did lack quite a bit of depth. That’s largely down to the small size of the PocketGo, which is light on power and can’t reach down all too deeply.

Higher in the frequency range, sudden percussive hits didn’t quite have the bite I’d hoped for – and generally the speaker’s dynamics never blew me away – but treble sounds were never harsh or uncontrolled at 50% volume or less. Vocals were also clear in the mix, which made for a decent overall listen, although I will say that they started to get muddied when I pushed volume above that 60-70% mark.

Tracks that feature sub-bass or generally deeper bass won’t fare well at all on the PocketGo. As I mentioned, there are some limitations here, so it’s to be expected, but tracks like 12 O.C Riddim by M-High featured almost inaudible low-frequency elements, which stripped them of the energy and excitement bass heads will be seeking out.

With a less demanding track like I’ve Got Your Number by Ned Doheny, there was a notable improvement, though. Strumming acoustic guitars were clear even with soulful vocals at the fore, and mid-bass – though not particularly impactful – came through cleanly. Again, there was very noticeable compression as I edged towards top volumes, but this speaker can get pretty loud for its size, so you might not need to crank things all the way to the top.

When I compared the PocketGo against its rival, the JBL Go 4, the latter model typically performed better. The PocketGo could get louder, but it had a less expressive overall sound, with the Go 4 plating up superior instrument separation and dynamics. Both speakers suffer from similar restrictions due to their size – neither gave me amazing deep bass or beautifully layered, detailed sound. But I think the Go 4 is the better sounding model.

Sound quality score: 3/5

Tribit PocketGo in someone's hand — (Image credit: Future)

Tribit PocketGo review: design

A less refined-looking JBL Go 4
Small and lightweight
Exceptional IP68 dust and waterproofing

Let’s address the elephant in the room here. To say that the Tribit PocketGo is inspired by the JBL Go 4 would be an understatement.

This is almost a one-for-one copy, featuring a fabric speaker grille, a rubber control pad, and small loop for hanging the speaker up. It’s not as refined or premium looking as JBL’s model, though, and its color options aren’t the most exciting, meaning it's not my favorite looks-wise.

But there are some definite positives to discuss in regard to this speaker’s design. First of all, it’s pleasingly compact and lightweight, coming in at just 0.5lbs / 220g. Its fabric loop also makes it easy to place on a hook – though I’d recommend laying it flat or on its base to listen to music, if you want the best audio quality.

What’s more, the Tribit PocketGo has an IP68 rating. That means it’s fully protected against dust, and highly waterproof too. More specifically, it can live through a 30 minute dunking under a meter and a half of water – it doesn’t get much better than that. In addition, it has a fairly solid construction, and should easily survive the occasional drop.

Design score: 3/5

Reverse side of the Tribit PocketGo — (Image credit: Future)

Tribit PocketGo review: value

Has a very modest price tag
Although you can grab an on-sale JBL Go 4 for similar
Fairly average overall quality

The Tribit PocketGo is a very budget friendly option, coming in with a list price of just $34.99 / £29.99 / AU$49.99.

Of course, this speaker is far from perfect. It produces average audio with solid mid-range and treble output at mid-volumes, but limited instrument separation and poor overall sound at louder levels. Its design is also a little unoriginal, and there are some missing features I would’ve liked to see.

But when you consider its impressive playtime, excellent waterproofing, and compact build, there is still plenty to like. Is it going to blow you away for the price? Perhaps not, but I still think you get what you pay for.

Still, would I recommend it outright? Not exactly. I think the JBL Go 4 is still the stronger pick if you’re seeking out a cheap, small-sized option. It may have a slightly higher list price, but it's on sale fairly regularly for around $40 / £35 / AU$49. Its superior sound quality and aesthetic makes it the better pick, for me.

Value score: 3.5/5

Should I buy the Tribit PocketGo?

Attributes	Notes	Rating
Features	Great battery life, but lacks Auracast, and companion app is pretty rudimentary.	3.5/5
Sound quality	OK sounding at mid-volume, but struggles beyond that, generally one-note audio.	3/5
Design	A little too close to the JBL Go 4, but lightweight and highly waterproof.	3/5
Value	Overall, you get what you pay for, but no more than that.	3.5/5

Buy it if...

You want a compact speaker to take on the go
One of my favorite things about the PocketGo is its satisfyingly small size, which makes it easy to throw in a bag or, well you know, in your pocket. It’s also dust and waterproof, meaning it's fit for use in any environment.

You’re on a tight budget
The low list price of the Tribit PocketGo makes it an enticing option. Its audio isn’t going to blow you away, and it's not the prettiest looking speaker on the market, but its long battery life and lightweight build may tempt you.

Don't buy it if...

You want great sound quality
Of course, some of this speaker’s flaws are linked to the inherent restrictions of its size. For instance, you can’t expect deep bass or amazing loudness here. But even still, this model left a little to be desired sonically, with a fairly one-note sound, limited instrument separation, and harsh audio at higher volumes.

You’re looking for something with style
This model looks a little bit too similar to the JBL Go 4 for my liking, but doesn’t quite have the refinement and charm of that model. There are less color options to choose from too, so I’d suggest picking the Go 4 over it.

Tribit PocketGo review: also consider

	Tribit PocketGo	JBL Go 4	Edifier ES20
Price	$34.99 / £29.99 / AU$49.99	$49.95 / £39.99 / AU$59.95	$89.99 / £50 / AU$99.99
Weight	0.5lbs / 220g	0.6lbs / 285g	0.7lbs / 0.3kg
Dimensions	4.3 x 3.2 x 1.7 inches / 108 x 81 x 42mm	3.7 x 3 x 1.7 inches / 94 x 78 x 42mm	3.6 x 3.7 x 2 inches / 90.4 x 93.7 x 49.7mm
Connectivity	Bluetooth 6.0	Bluetooth 5.3	Bluetooth 5.4
Battery life	20 hours	7 hours	15 hours
Speaker drivers	1x 45mm full range	1x 45mm full range	1x 43mm full range
Waterproofing	IP68	IP67	IP67

JBL Go 4
This is the speaker that the Tribit PocketGo wants to be. It’s not the best sounding speaker ever, but I appreciate the Go 4’s clear mids and controlled treble, and you can adjust EQ to your personal taste. It’s a colorful, well-built, and lightweight option that’s even in my guide to the best Bluetooth speakers. Read our full JBL Go 4 review.

Edifier ES20
The Edifier ES20 was one of my favorite Bluetooth speakers of 2025. It's a little larger than the PocketGo and Go 4, but it’s still nice and compact, and highly waterproof. Sonically, this is an excellent choice, with surprisingly detailed mids, punchy bass, and expressive treble. Read our full Edifier ES20 review.

Tribit PocketGo review: how I tested

Tab on Tribit PocketGo pulled to one side, revealing USB-C and microSD card slots — (Image credit: Future)

Tested within a one-week period
Mainly used at home
Predominantly tested using Tidal

I tested the Tribit PocketGo over a week-long period, mainly using it at home. During my time with the speaker, I spent hours listening to music, exhausted all of its features, and even compared it directly against the JBL Go 4.

When listening to tunes, I made sure to start with the TechRadar testing playlist, which features tracks from a range of genres. I also listened to songs from my personal library through both Tidal and Spotify.

And more generally, I’ve reviewed dozens of Bluetooth speakers here at TechRadar – more than 30 to be precise. As a result, I’m highly familiar with the PocketGo’s competition, and I know what it takes for a speaker to stand out in a highly convoluted market.

First reviewed: January 2026
Read more about how we test

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Gen 2 review: a highly versatile headset that’s become my daily driver

1:00 pm | December 24, 2025

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: EQ, Google Pixel | Comments: Off

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Gen 2: two-minute review

If you’re looking for a PS5 headset that boasts unrivaled customization options, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Gen 2 is an endlessly versatile wireless gaming headset option. And while it is indeed a tweaked version of the multiplatform model, one that swaps out the control wheel on the right earcup for one that dials in sidetone, this headset can be used on a whole host of platforms to great effect.

After using the headset for 100 hours, I’ve found myself keeping it on for music listening and work calls throughout the day. It’s a Gen 2 version of an existing headset, with a larger battery that I’ve found to be good for just over 50 hours, and a few extras in terms of software compatibility. Having also used a SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 review, I can say with confidence that this is a big step up in terms of user experience and comfort.

All in all, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P offers everything I want from a PS5 headset, and I’ve been impressed by the custom audio profiles for games like Fortnite and Alan Wake 2. While the Arctis app is easy to use on mobile, some features, like creating custom EQ profiles, are locked to the desktop app. I’d love to see full functionality on the mobile app, as having to jump between devices to use the full suite of features is a little frustrating. Similarly, you have to use the desktop app to update firmware.

Audio quality for the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P is great across the board and has held up while I’ve been testing the headset with gaming, work calls, and music listening sessions.

There’s a handful of music EQ profiles to play around with, and they offer the usual Bright, Heavy, Bass Boost options you’ll find on most EQing programmes these days. I love the fact that Side Tone is controlled via a wheel on the right ear cup, as it allows me to dial it up for online, voice-chat heavy games, and then back down for when I’m playing a single player title.

Black headphones from the side, with a retractable microphone extended — (Image credit: SteelSeries)

Battery life was pretty much bang on the 54 hours claimed by the manufacturer (my estimate was 52 hours following a full charge), though I did find that the battery drained a little quicker when using both the Bluetooth and 2.4Ghz functions simultaneously. As such, I never actually ran out of battery (besides the testing for battery life), as a quick charge at the end of the day would boost the headset up enough to last comfortably more than the following day’s usage.

Retractable microphones are my preference in a gaming headset, and I’ve really appreciated being able to neatly slot away the microphone while I’m using the headset for music or single-player games. Other gaming headsets I’ve owned have had detachable microphones, and sooner or later, they get misplaced, rendering the device useless for certain kinds of games. The red light that indicates muting is a nice touch too, giving me a clear signal that, yes, I am indeed muted on a call once again.

I’ve unfortunately also had two instances requiring me to hard-reset the device. This seems to happen due to an endless cycling of the Bluetooth pairing when connecting and reconnecting between multiple devices. To reset the headset, you have to remove the foam from one of the earcups and then use a pin to poke down into a very tiny hole.

This isn’t ideal, and particularly frustrating when you don’t have the right tool on hand to initiate the fix. I’ve kept the headset’s firmware updated throughout this review, so for now, I’m unable to say whether this issue is something that’s prevalent and planned to be fixed.

Black headphones resting on a green surface — (Image credit: SteelSeries)

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Gen 2: price and availability

List price: $199 / £179.99 / AU$399
More expensive than the Gen 1 version at launch, which was $179.99 / £174.99 (about AU$310)
Competitive pricing with a great feature set that matches rivals

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P launched in October 2025. It’s positioned somewhere in the middle of the mid-range premium gaming headsets in terms of cost, and it’s in-line, though slightly more expensive than the Gen 1 version due to its refreshed and updated feature set.

At $199 / £179.99 / AU$399, the headset has a number of competitors like the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 3. It’s exactly the same price as the Stealth 700 Gen 3, and shares many of the same features, though the Turtle Beach has the SteelSeries beat on battery life by a considerable margin.

Then there’s the Razer Kraken V4, a cheaper alternative ($179 / £179 / AU$329) to the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P. You get a little less battery life and THX Spatial Audio, which really improves the audio experience. Unfortunately, this THX Spatial Audio is only available on PC, so if you’re a console gamer, you may find the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P’s suite of software features a lot more useful in your setup.

For the price, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P does offer great value for money in terms of build quality and features. It doesn’t have Active Noise Control (ANC), though you can’t find another headset that does in this price range. In fact, ANC is very uncommon in the gaming space as of yet, so for now at least, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P feels fully featured.

It’s also worth mentioning that, despite having launched in October of this year, there have already been deals and discounts for Black Friday that brought the headset down by $20 on average. Even if you can’t find a deal on the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P headset, it’s still great value for money for what you’re getting.

Black headphones resting on a black stand, against an orange and green background — (Image credit: Future)

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Gen 2: specs

	SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Gen 3
Price	$199 / £179.99 / AU$399
Weight	11.5oz / 326g
Drivers	40mm carbon fiber with brass surround
Compatibility	PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mac, Mobile
Connection type	Wireless (2.4Ghz via dongle), Wired (audio jack), Bluetooth
Battery life	54 hours
Features	Retractable boom noise-cancelling microphone, Simultaneous wireless and Bluetooth audio, AirWeave memory foam ear cup material, Fast Charge (6 hours in 15 minutes).
Software	SteelSeries GG/Sonar, SteelSeries Arctis Companion App (iOS & Android)

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Gen 2: design and features

Comfortable and lightweight design that feels sleek and unobstructive
Simultaneous 2.4Ghz wireless and Bluetooth audio is a real winner
Three cleanly designed colorways

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P comes in three colors: Black, White, and Pink, though the design largely follows the same of other Arctis Nova headsets. Comparing it to my own SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5, the 7P is noticeably improved in build quality. It’s slightly heavier, and the headband is a PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition)-coated steel that’s much more sturdy. At a glance, however, this is the same design we’ve seen from other SteelSeries gaming headsets, just a little bit more premium-feeling.

In comparison to the weight of competitors like the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (14.3oz / 408g) and the Kraken V4 (12.3oz / 397g), the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P is noticeably lighter (11.3oz / 326g). I often find gaming headsets too bulky and heavy for extended use, though the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P has been superbly comfortable to wear all day. I was given the Black color variant for review, and it’s a big upgrade on the White model I’ve used for the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 (which discolored and yellowed a little after a few months of use).

Another thing I like about this headset is the retractable microphone. It slots neatly into the left earcup and can be pulled out and replaced smoothly. There’s even a small red LED on the tip of the microphone to indicate when the device is muted. Personally, I need a little bit of Side Tone in my gaming headsets, which usually plays back a bit of my speech audio into the headset while using the microphone. The 7P version here has an adjustable dial on the right earcup to adjust Side Tone, a nice feature that’s exclusive to the PlayStation-centric version I’ve been testing

A small black USBC dongle — (Image credit: Future)

There’s a mute button, a volume wheel, and two pairing buttons that activate Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connections, respectively. These all feel solid, though there’s nothing particularly interesting to report about them. Other headsets might use a click here and there on their volume wheels, but I can’t say I was left wanting with the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P’s more straightforward offering.

This 7P variant is multiplatform across PC, mobile, Mac, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch 2, Meta Quest 2 and Quest 3, and Nintendo Switch, as are the 7 and 7X variants. The difference between the models is that in the 7, the right ear cup has a chatmix volume wheel (tailored for PC functionality), rather than the 7P and the 7X’s Side Tone wheel. The PS5 doesn’t use chatmix, so the Side Tone wheel is more useful if you’re primarily playing on PlayStation. If you want proper Xbox compatibility, the 7X is the headset that’ll connect to Xbox devices. The 7 and 7P will not.

Having separate buttons for each connection type works like a charm, and they even have slightly different sound effects upon activation. This streamlines a potentially finicky process that can often crop up with simultaneous connectivity devices like this.

Black headphones on a black headphone stand against an orange background — (Image credit: Future)

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Gen 2: performance

Fantastic sound across gaming, music, and work calls
Arctis app’s custom game profiles truly make a difference
Comfortable and versatile enough to become a daily driver

The SteelSeries Arctis 7P excels in audio quality, mostly leaning on the Arctis app to offer a deep level of customization in how your in-game audio is mixed. I’ve played hundreds of hours of online games like Fortnite, Battlefield 6 and Arc Raiders using the headset, and found in-game audio to rise to the occasion, regardless of what I’m playing. I often chose to use the headset without the companion app, instead relying on default settings to play a whole host of games. I found the audio to be well-balanced and with adequate levels of bass without needing to tweak things in-game.

Similarly, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P will perform great when streaming music, though it’s not really positioned as a music-first product, lacking noise cancelling and the clarity you’ll get from a dedicated set of more audio-focused headphones.

Generally, the headset features solid audio quality and performance in default settings, with very few issues with stuttering or streaming, whether connected to Bluetooth or 2.4Ghz signals. I had quite a few problems with the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 in this respect, frequently finding that my audio would glitch or cut out entirely from time to time. Whatever’s been finetuned for the 7P model has ironed out these issues completely, and I’ve had a very smooth experience switching between Bluetooth and 2.4Ghz modes so far.

A huge plus point of the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P is its compatibility with the companion Arctis app, which adds flexibility and features. You can download the Arctis app on your phone, and from there you can tweak the Bluetooth audio, the 2.4Ghz audio, and microphone profiles on the fly. It’s a robust app that has custom profiles for games like Battlefield 6, Kingdom Come Deliverance 2, and Fortnite.

Black headphones on a black stand, on a green surface — (Image credit: Future)

In online competitive titles, enemy footsteps are bumped up in the EQ mix, and the difference is stark. Having spent around a hundred hours playing Arc Raiders on the headset with the “FPS Footsteps” custom profile enabled, I’ve been able to hear enemies sneaking up behind me, saving me from a potential ambush.

Unfortunately, custom EQ settings are locked to the desktop app, so if you want to make your own audio profiles, you’ll need to load up another device. I’d like to see this compatibility added to the mobile app, as having to open up my laptop and connect my headset to a separate platform really complicates what should be a simple process.

Microphone quality isn’t perfect out of the box, but after some tweaking in the Arctis app, it sounds great when playing online with other players. At this price point, the audio quality from the microphone is standard, but nothing to write home about, though I’ve had reports from my regular gaming group that the microphone sounds noticeably better than on my SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5.

All in all, however, I have very few gripes with how the Steel Series Arctis Nova 7P performs day to day. The simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4Ghz connections have made the headset a staple for me, whether I’m gaming, working, or chatting to pals on Discord.

Black headphones on a headphone stand, next to a blue product box. — (Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Gen 2?

Buy it if...

You want a comfortable and light gaming headset
The Steel Series Arctis Nova 7P is the most comfortable gaming headset I’ve reviewed so far. It’s noticeably lighter than its direct competitors, while still having great build quality and a sturdy headband.

You want custom audio profiles for games like Fortnite
Arctis offers custom audio profiles specifically tailored for a whole host of games. Some amplify enemy footsteps, while others bump up the high-end to do justice to soaring orchestral soundtracks.

You want to run two audio streams simultaneously
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P offers simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless audio streams. This means you can run your Discord chat over Bluetooth, and your game audio through 2.4Ghz. This is seamless and very easy to manage on the fly.

Don't buy it if...

You want to make your own EQ profiles easily
Unfortunately, you’ll need to use a desktop app to create and manage EQs you’ve made yourself. This is frustrating, as the mobile app has every other piece of functionality covered. Still, this is a niche issue, and most won’t need to open their desktop even once.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Gen 2: Also consider

Still not sold on the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P? Here are two competitors that might better fit your needs.

	SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Gen 3	Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 3	Razer Kraken V4
Price	$199 / £179.99 / AU$399	$199.99 / £179.99 / AU$399.95	$179 / £179 / AU$329
Weight	11.5oz / 326g	14.3oz / 405g	12.3oz / 350g
Drivers	40mm carbon fiber with brass surround	60mm Eclipse™ Dual Drivers	Razer TriForce Titanium 40mm Drivers
Compatibility	PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mac, Mobile	PC, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS	PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, Android, iOS
Connection type	Wireless (2.4Ghz via dongle), Wired (audio jack), Bluetooth	Wired (USB-A), Wireless (2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.2)	Wired (USB-A), Wireless (Bluetooth 5.3, 2.4GHz USB dongle)
Battery life	54 hours	80 hours	Up to 50 hours
Features	Retractable boom noise-cancelling microphone, Simultaneous wireless and Bluetooth audio, AirWeave memory foam ear cup material, Fast Charge (6 hours in 15 minutes).	Flip-to-mute mic with AI noise reduction, CrossPlay Dual transmitters, remappable Mode button, and wheel	Razer HyperSpeed Wireless technology, Retractable Razer HyperClear Super Wideband Mic, THX Spatial Audio
Software	SteelSeries GG/Sonar, SteelSeries Arctis Companion App (iOS & Android)	Swarm 2	Razer Synapse

Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 3 Wireless
The closest competitor to the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P is the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 3. It’s exactly the same price, but it does have more battery life. It’s also much heavier, however, and overall has a much more bulky design.

For more information, check out our full Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 3 review.View Deal

Razer Kraken V4
The Kraken V4 is a slightly cheaper alternative here. It has more bespoke technology applied to its microphone and audio drivers, with particular care taken to ensure the microphone quality punches well above its weight. The battery life is only slightly less than the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P’s, and it similarly features a retractable design for its microphone.

For more information, check out our full Razer Kraken V4 review.View Deal

How I tested the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Gen 2

Tested daily for a month, between gaming and work sessions
Used primarily on PS5 Pro, but also on my MacBook Air, and Google Pixel 7
Compared directly to the Steel Series Arctis Nova 5, which I’ve now used daily for over a year

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P has become my daily driver for the last month or so. I’ve been using it as my main gaming headset, playing Arc Raiders and Fortnite with pals online. I’ve also used the headset for work, joining meetings and presentations, and using the microphone to speak. I’ve regularly had both audio streams running simultaneously using the Bluetooth and 2.4Ghz wireless functions, especially while gaming.

On my PS5 Pro, I’ve tested the custom audio profiles in the Arctis app. Audio for Fortnite, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and Battlefield 6 all offered distinct differences when paired with their respective custom profiles. Primarily, I’ve played around 60 hours of Arc Raiders, a game where audio is particularly vital. The FPS Footsteps profile saved my life a bunch of times by lifting low-end audio and making enemy footsteps clear and pronounced.

On my MacBook Air, I used the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P to listen to music, and applied some of the dedicated music profiles from the Arctis app to test audio quality. During my testing, I was able to compare the headset to the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 and noted the upgrades offered by the newer version. I also paired the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P to my Google Pixel 7 to test calls, Discord Mobile audio, and to access the Arctis app’s full suite of features.

First reviewed October-December 2025

Read more about how we test

I tested Edifier’s great-value new desktop monitor speakers and they exceeded all of my expectations

2:00 pm | October 27, 2025

Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Gadgets Hi-Fi Speakers | Tags: EQ | Comments: Off

Edifier MR5: Two-minute review

Active monitor speakers were at one point the near-exclusive haunt of the audio professional, casual listeners leaning more to desktop computer speakers or to hi-fis of their own design. A recent deluge of more accessible, feature-rich monitor designs has attempted to bridge the gap, often at the expense of practical utility to the people they were first designed for – but the Edifier MR5, in my opinion, does a great job at bucking that trend, making them some of the best stereo speakers I've tested recently.

For the low low price of $349.99 / £279.99 (approx AUS$570), you get a delightfully demure set of desktop-friendly speakers that achieve remarkable neutrality, incredible high-end clarity and a satisfying low end that trumps the capabilities of many larger competitors.

This is possible by virtue of Edifier’s smart new three-driver design, incorporating a downward-facing woofer, a bi-ported chassis and a tri-amped, active-crossover architecture. The results speak for their balanced, broad and crystal-clear selves.

There’s a shedload of tech backing up these fundamental smarts too. Digital EQ controls and customization are available via the Edifier ConneX app, including some one-click acoustic tuning options that compensate for corners of your desktop. I feel like these features sometimes get in the way of the MR5’s essential excellence, but that’s just me.

With Bluetooth 6.0, LDAC support for hi-res streaming and four options for analog inputs, it’s understandable that their design budget couldn’t stretch to including the kitchen sink.

The Edifier MR5 monitor speaker on a table. — (Image credit: Future)

Edifier MR5 review: Price and release date

Released on July 1, 2025
$349.99 / £279.99 (approx AU$570)

Edifier is a Chinese brand that’s had its mitts in the monitor market for a long time, and has consequently made a reputation for itself as one of the best budget brands going. Its products are often inexpensive and in possession of unusual cheer, particularly for the quality of sound they offer against the MSRP they’re able to pitch their products at.

This pair of active monitors, the MR5, is the latest in the still-quite-new MR series, and every bit an improvement on the prior models with which it shares an umbrella. Against the Edifier MR4, they add dual-device Bluetooth 6.0 connectivity – and, more importantly, a daring new three-way driver design.

The Edifier MR5's price is $349.99 / £279.99, which coverts to roughly AU$570 in Australia although the speakers don't seem to be releasing there.

Between these and the expanded digital control of EQ settings and other features, suffice to say there’s a great deal crammed into these unexpectedly-dinky active monitor speakers. Can they stick the landing, though?

The Edifier MR5 monitor speaker on either side of a large PC monitor. — (Image credit: Future)

Edifier MR5 review: Specs

Drivers	5” woofer, 3.75" mid driver, 1" silk dome tweeter
Analogue connectivity	Dual XLR, dual TRS, RCA, 3.5mm aux; 3.5mm headphone out
Digital connectivity	Bluetooth 6.0 (two devices) with LDAC support
Power	110W RMS
Frequency range	46Hz - 40kHz
Extras	x1 3.5mm to 3.5mm aux cable, 1x RCA to 3.5mm aux cable

Edifier MR5 review: Features

Three-way active crossover
Four analog inputs, dual-device Bluetooth 6.0
App control for voicings and room EQ

The Edifier MR5 monitor speakers are a veritable bag of nifty cross-disciplinary tricks, with features and fripperies that speak to casual listeners, young-buck music producers and burgeoning professionals building a versatile control-room setup.

On the connectivity front, there’s balanced XLR inputs and TRS inputs, plus RCA inputs and a front-facing 3.5mm aux port, for a total of four analogue connectivity options and the absolute elimination of any roadblocks to integrating the MR5 with your studio. Couple this with dual-device Bluetooth 6.0 (and LDAC-supportive) connectivity for ease of passing the digital aux, and you’ve five powerful ways to get what you want out of these – plus a 3.5mm headphone output for quiet-time.

For the pros, there’s the extensive 46Hz - 40kHz frequency range and flat frequency response out of the box, alongside manually-adjustable high- and low-shelf filters for adjusting to the acoustics of your space. Speaking of which, there’s the option for further DSP customization via Bluetooth using the proprietary Edifier ConneX app, including more granular low-cut control, and room compensation algorithms for better performance in reflective spaces.

For everyone else, there’s expressive hi-fi-leaning options for speaker voicings, and digital control of both those voicings and audio playback via the same proprietary app. In short, there’s a boatload to discover – and the discovery doesn’t stop here either. These speakers are also trend-buckingly maximalist with how they approach their core modus operandi.

Smaller bookshelf style monitors like these traditionally have two drivers – a mid-woofer and a tweeter – and use smart chassis design or an optional subwoofer output for low-end coverage. Here, though, Edifier’s somehow managed to squeeze in three drivers in a tri-amped, active-crossover system, comprising a 3.75" mid driver, 1" silk dome tweeter and a side-ported, downward-facing 5” woofer for low-end coverage.

The result is a small set of desktop-friendly active monitor speakers, with an outsized feature-set and a smooth sound output that seriously challenges the demureness of its form – more on which right now, actually.

Features score: 5/5

Edifier MR5 review: Sound quality

Controlled bass with body
Detailed and dimensional high-mid range
Limited by size, despite smart crossover design

The Edifier MR5 have three distinct voicings you can switch between, at a press of the single knob on the front: ‘Monitor’, ‘Music’, and ‘Customized’. For the uninitiated, ‘Monitor’ mode would attempt as neutral a frequency response as possible, for a clinical representation of sound as recorded. ‘Music’ adds a hi-fi sheen, sculpting the EQ for a more exciting representation, and ‘Customized’, as I’m sure you’ve surmised, is a do-it-yourself mode for saving your personal EQ settings (dialed in via app).

For this review, I spent the vast majority of my time using the ‘Monitor’ voicing. As someone who frequently uses monitor speakers in a professional capacity more so than a personal one, the neutral frequency response is far more useful to me day-to-day. I have some thoughts about the other settings later on, but until then you’re getting my impressions of these monitors at their essential best.

Small caveat for the bargain-seeking audio pros amongst you, too: my listening environment was not that of an acoustically-treated studio control room, and as such my observations should be taken with a pinch of semi-casual salt. It’s a hard line to tread between the exacting expectations of the career-minded and the vibey sensibilities of the rest, and yet it’s a line both this reviewer and these speakers are determined to tread.

Given that unique downward-facing driver design, you might be expecting an avalanche of desk-shaking bass. It is my utmost pleasure to report that no such misrepresentation occurs – at least, unless you push the MR5 to the upper limits of their volume range, at which point you can immediately quell it using the helpfully-named Desktop mode.

Instead, that bold woofer is put to use in delivering body over boom. There’s a little bloom with more outrageously-arranged pieces – Falle Nioke’s Falle Le Le Le features a low end that sounds like it’s already blown the speakers it was blasted through, and even that edgy, crunched-out kick and bass synth is presented with a level of welcome restraint. Distorted, low-tuned guitars a la Greet Death’s Die In Love are full and forceful, to gratifyingly torrential ends.

The ported sides of each speaker give airy movement in the ultra-low end, allowing kicks and thumpy bass guitars to breathe. Unfortunately, despite the clever design principles on display here, you’ll still experience the same limitations imposed by small-form nearfield monitors – namely, a compressed low-middy boxiness at higher volumes, that’s hard to design your way out of even with nifty acoustic tuning options and customizable EQ.

As a probably-intentional byproduct of this restrained approach to bass, the Edifier MR5 are phenomenal midrange communicators. Pile’s Bouncing In Blue, from latest heavy-folk stunner Sunshine And Balance Beams, is a phenomenal showcase of this, primarily through the Biscoff-spread smoothness of Rick Maguire’s drawled voice.

Uneasy, which follows immediately after, is a tactile delight, setting panned staccato guitars and kick-snare-kick-kick-snare percussion against one another with gratifying gusto beneath Maguire’s actually-quite-affected sneer. Indeed, there’s magic in that high-mid and high end, with stunning voice translation and a beautiful reediness in sustained strings and the like.

The MR5’s handling of transients isn’t as cutting or sharp as other speakers, but still reassuringly immediate. At the tippity-top, there’s no bite, spike or scratch, but rather a forthright resolution that puts anything flicky, ticky or indeed scratchy in glorious magic-eye-picture 3D before your ears. Hi-hats, auxiliary snaps, maracas – all presented with a delicate touch and a brilliant sense of in-the-room presence. This impressive soundstaging is a triumph both of the tweeters themselves and the clever acoustic design surrounding them.

Water From Your Eyes’ Playing Classics is one of the driest, most up-front songs going at the moment, and an excellent bellwether for the matter-of-factness these MR5 monitors are capable of. Bluntly-presented digital cymbals, dry DI-ed guitars and sampled-piano melodies make a compelling case for the high-end clarity these are capable of – even if that airy low-end starts to encroach a little.

In ‘Music’ mode, the MR5s add a heaped cup of extra bloom to the low end, along with some characterful contouring that gives a little more hi-fi excitement to proceedings. I get it, particularly for the additional presence it (of course) gives to kicks and hi-hats, but I don’t necessarily love it. With the Customized mode, the graphic EQ makes it easy to select for problem frequencies, but makes vibes-based EQing a tad fiddlier. Nonetheless, EQ moves were expressive enough to give you some control over your ideal outcomes.

Sound quality score: 4.5/5

Edifier MR5 review: Design

Extensive connectibility
Handy, feature-filled companion app
Digital settings are slow on the uptake

Thanks to the MR5’s prodigious I/O, setting up for analogue playback is about as simple as it could be: plug thingies you have into thingies they’ll fit. Unlike many professional monitor speakers, the MR5 hosts most of its hardware in one speaker, and sends audio to the other using a unique 9-pin connector cable; as such, you only need one plug socket to run the two of them.

Bluetooth connectivity is similarly fuss-free, and much the same as you’ll find anywhere else. A dedicated button on the rear puts the speakers in discovery mode, and connecting is as simple as looking for the good Edifier name on your transmitting device.

Bluetooth control is also how the Edifier ConneX app is able to work its remote-control magic. From the app you can mess with various features, including switching between voicings, acoustic tuning settings, and even selecting which speaker receives left or right channels of audio.

The MR5’s techy maximalism can sometimes get in its own way, though. An over-eager auto-standby can catch you off guard if you pause music for a phone call or a brew – a half-pointless mini-feature that does more to vex than it does to save energy. Thankfully, you can de-activate it using either the encoder knob or the app, rendering this particular gripe half-pointless itself.

Perhaps more vexingly, the customisable EQ settings are communicated through the ConneX app via Bluetooth, and there’s some significant latency between the sliding of a digital fader and a real-terms change in the volume of a given frequency. This latency makes hunting tuning problems a little more difficult and time-consuming than it really ought to be – but, again, if you’re just here for the room compensation, there’s a low-cut knob right there on the back of the speaker.

As for visuals, there’s some understated class to the MR5. The dimpled waveguides around the tweeters add some fun as well as some practical high-end widening; the bronze flourishes on the mid-woofer dustcaps, around the tweeters and via that knurled encoder knob are tasteful, but only just. For my taste, they toe the line between cool and cringe – and toe it all the better in your periphery.

Design score: 4/5

Edifier MR5 review: Value

Astonishingly feature-rich for the price
Signifiers of cheapness few but obvious
A stunning choice for desktop nearfields

The Edifier MR5 are a truly maximalist affair, and arguably worth every penny on the features front alone. It’s nice to see monitor speakers, particularly at this higher-end-of-cheap price point, not just meeting practical expectations but exceeding them. You can connect to these speakers five different ways, switch between three different sound profiles and control a lot more of its sound and functionality than you might reasonably expect.

Some elements of the MR5’s price point are more obvious than others. For instance, the only part of the speaker with which you actually, actively interface every time you use it is the plastic knob adorning the sole rotary encoder on the front. The encoder itself has a solid and reassuring mechanical feedback, but it’s transmitted through a cheap-feeling tactile surface. It’s a miniscule part of the greater MR5 whole, but nonetheless a shame that this no-brainer of a cost-cutting angle is so necessarily present in, and even central to, the user experience.

I mention this not to dock marks from the MR5, but to highlight just what it’s managed to achieve. That a plastic knob, some delayed EQ adjustment and an optional auto-standby feature constitute the majority of my criticism should tell you everything you need to know about these highly-accessible, multi-disciplinary, pint-sized works of well-priced magic.

I will say that I’m a personal fan of them as an at-home set of trustworthy nearfield monitors. They’re fine mid-field hi-fi operators, but really shine in a desktop or small-office environment, and as a jack-of-all-trades as opposed to a bona fide pro audio solution. For the fine line they tread, this is about as good as it gets.

The Edifier MR5 monitor speaker on a table next to a cat. — (Image credit: Future)

Value score: 5/5

Edifier MR5 review: scorecard

	Comment	Rating
Features	Digital app control, customized sound profiles and many connection options, all housed alongside a tri-amped three-way driver system.	5/5
Sound quality	The Edifier MR5 perform astonishingly well in the upper ranges, the transient response is forgiving, and percussion three-dimensional.	4.5/5
Design	Plug-and-play speakers for all but the liveliest office rooms, and a breeze to tune up. Bronze-ish highlights elevate the otherwise-understated form.	4/5
Value	I’d be hard-pressed to find any reason to say these aren’t worth every penny they sell for.	5/5

Should you buy the Edifier MR5?

Buy them if...

You want speakers that do everything
The Edifier MR5 pack a whole lot into a delightfully demure bookshelf-speaker package. From the glut of analogue inputs to the hi-res Bluetooth, and from the great neutral starting point to the colourful potential of their voice modes, these tick all the boxes for an all-in-one studio-room speaker set.

You’re looking for great sound on a budget
The Edifier MR5’s three-way driver system is nothing short of genius, making the absolute most of what is usually a limiting form factor. Though a little costlier than what many would consider the budget range, these are well worth the investment for leg-up monitors that’ll hold their own for a while.

Don't buy them if...

You hate apps
You don’t need to use the proprietary Edifier ConneX app to enjoy your MR5 speakers – but it helps! And some of us simply have less time for finicky app-based customisation than others.

You want room-filling sound
These are ideal nearfield monitors, and impressive when used as midfield monitors too. Fundamentally, though, they’re too small to do much with larger spaces.

Also consider

	Edifier MR5	Edifier QR65	Kanto Ren
Price	$349.99 / £279.99 (approx AU$570)	$369.99 / £329.99 / AU$449	$599 / £599 (around AU$1,199)
Drivers	5" woofer, 3.75" mid driver, 1" silk dome tweeter	2.75" mid-low driver, 1.25" silk dome tweeter	5.25" woofer, 1" silk dome tweeter
Analogue connectivity	Dual XLR, dual TRS, RCA, 3.5mm aux; 3.5mm headphone out	RCA, sub out	RCA, 3.5mm aux, sub out
Digital connectivity	Bluetooth 6.0 (two devices), with LDAC support	Bluetooth 5.3, USB-A	Bluetooth 5.3 with AAC support, USB-C, optical (TOSLINK), HDMI ARC
Power	110W RMS	70W RMS	100W RMS
Frequency range	46Hz - 40kHz	55Hz - 40kHz	50Hz - 22kHz
Extras	1x 3.5mm to 3.5mm aux cable, 1x RCA to 3.5mm aux cable	1x 3.5mm to 3.5mm aux cable, 1x USB cable	Speaker wire

Edifier QR65
If you’ve a little more to spend and a little less space to spare, Edifier’s QR65 have you covered. These smaller desktop speakers are designed with wireless utility in mind, but play great as desk-bound AV speakers for whatever you’re up to.
See our full Edifier QR65 review

Kanto Ren
Kanto’s Ren speakers only bear so much in common with Edifier’s MR5, in that they’re powered, and they’re bookshelf format. But everything else that they are might be exactly what you’re looking for, if the MR5 doesn’t scratch your hi-fi itch; there’s subwoofer compatibility, digital inputs and some very musical voicings that make them great living-room listeners.
See our full Kanto Ren review

How I tested the Edifier MR5

Tested for five weeks
Used as monitor speakers in an attic office space,
Serviced by a Universal Audio Volt 476 audio interface, and by Bluetooth connection
Predominantly tested using Bandcamp, Spotify, local music files and Reaper sessions

The Edifier MR5 spent their time as the primary listening devices for my office studio setup, as nearfield studio monitors. During my time with them, I streamed music from Spotify and Bandcamp, as well as played music locally from my computer (both high-quality downloads, and works-in-progress on the digital audio workstation Reaper) – all via a Universal Audio Volt 476 interface. I also streamed music from my Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra smartphone, which also harboured the Edifier ConneX app for testing digital control.

First reviewed: October 2025

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