Technics AZ80 Review: Unparalleled Sound and Functionality in a Sleek Package

Wireless earbuds have become increasingly abundant. So, what can manufacturers do to stand out? Should they incorporate gimmicks like a display on the charging case, fun colors, or should they simply focus on what they do best – sound quality?

Panasonic-owned Technics is launching its new line of true wireless earbuds. Among the series, I’ve had the opportunity to test the Technics EAH-AZ80 at home for some time, which is the top-ranked model among the two new releases, alongside the AZ60 Mark II. These elegant wireless earbuds hail from a company well-established in the hi-fi industry, so it’s safe to assume they’ll deliver an impressive performance, right?

I mean, Technics has raised the bar with the launch of their highly anticipated flagship model, which debuted just a few weeks ago in the Swedish market with a price tag of 3499 SEK. With such a premium price point, consumers expect nothing short of exceptional functionality and impeccable sound performance, especially considering the wide range of competitive in-ear alternatives available at nearly half the price. As an avid user of both the AZ70 and the more compact AZ40, I have come to admire Technics’ meticulous attention to sound customization and their distinctive design philosophy.

Design & features

For this review, I received the silver-colored variant of the earbuds for testing. As I open the package, I’m greeted by a sleek case with the brand logo elegantly printed in gold on the lid, which is finely crafted to resemble stainless steel. Upon opening the case, the same color scheme continues inside. Gray and silver hues blend harmoniously, accentuated by subtle gold details. The build quality becomes evident as I retrieve the earbuds from the case and feel their weight in my hand. They are lightweight yet exude a sense of solidity and craftsmanship.

The accompanying information in the box prompts me to download the Technics Audio Connect app to set up my new earbuds. Without hesitation, I proceed to do so, and in no time, I am up and running. The installation process is straightforward, merely following the instructions provided within the app. Once completed, my earbuds are seamlessly integrated and saved within the software.

Software

Speaking of the app. The app serves a multitude of purposes beyond simple Bluetooth pairing. It offers extensive customization options for my earbuds, allowing me to tailor the sound experience to my liking. I have the flexibility to adjust the EQ settings, fine-tuning the audio output to suit my preferences. Additionally, the app provides a range of preset modes for easy sound optimization.

Moreover, the app grants us full control over the ambient sound settings, enabling us to select the desired level of noise cancellation or ambient sound pass-through according to our surroundings and preferences.

In addition to customization features, the app offers valuable insights. I can easily monitor the battery status of both the earbuds and the charging case, ensuring that I never run out of power unexpectedly. Furthermore, the app facilitates firmware updates for the earbuds, ensuring that we have access to the latest enhancements and features. It also displays the active codec, allowing us to know the type of audio encoding utilized during playback. With various codecs supported, including LDAC, the earbuds can deliver lossless audio quality at impressive resolutions of up to 96 kHz/990 kbps.

Performance

Undoubtedly, the most crucial aspect lies within the earbuds themselves. Technics has ingeniously utilized the available space to incorporate a 10mm aluminum diaphragm driver. This ensures a pristine and clear sound reproduction. The surrounding shell serves as an acoustic chamber, maximizing the audio output within this compact form factor. It is evident that meticulous attention has been given to the sound engineering, instilling confidence in Technics’ expertise accumulated over the years. The overall experience, both in terms of tactile sensation and audio performance, reinforces the notion that they truly know what they’re doing.

Thanks to the generous-sized drivers, there is a warm expansiveness, a sense of airiness, and a remarkable depth in the bass reproduction. Unlike the often DSP-boosted or artificial bass output that can result from smaller 6mm microdrivers attempting to deliver massive low frequencies, the sound here feels dynamically brilliant. It exhibits exceptional separation and warmth, elevating the listening experience to new heights.

Battery

With a battery life of 7.5 hours per charge, the Technics AZ80 earbuds offer impressive longevity. Additionally, the accompanying charging case provides an extra 25 hours of power, all while maintaining a remarkably compact design within this segment. Technics has completely reworked the active noise cancellation (ANC) technology in the AZ80 model. The enhanced dual-system, combining feedforward and feedback techniques, delivers superior noise isolation compared to most of my other experience with different wireless in-ear models. The ANC capabilities of the Technics AZ80 are simply unparalleled in the current market, making it the top choice for those seeking exceptional noise reduction capabilities in their earbuds.

Verdict

Technics has ingeniously crafted these earbuds to cater to our multifaceted needs, eliminating the need for constant switching or compromising. They have prioritized comfort, allowing us to wear them comfortably throughout the day. Whether we’re commuting, listening to podcasts or music, engaging in work calls or video meetings, or even going for a run followed by unwinding with high-quality audio, these earbuds deliver on all fronts.

It’s undeniable that Technics has achieved their objectives, checking off each item on their own list. The earbuds boast a refined and elegant design, accompanied by seamless functionality. The active noise cancellation feature creates a serene environment, while the ambient sound mode ensures awareness of our surroundings. Crystal-clear call quality is guaranteed, and the audio performance is truly exceptional.

This makes them well worth their price, and I wholeheartedly recommend them.