The Technics EAH-AZ100, launched at CES 2025, is the latest entry in the premium earbud market, and it has already made waves among audiophiles and casual listeners alike. With a price tag of $299.99, these earbuds promise to deliver top-tier performance with advanced features and impeccable sound quality. But does it justify the premium cost? Let’s dive into the details.
Technical Details
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Driver Type | Proprietary fluid magnetic drivers |
| Frequency Response | 3Hz – 40kHz |
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Audio Codecs | LDAC, AAC, SBC |
| Noise Cancellation | Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation |
| Microphones | 3 per earbud (beamforming and noise-reducing mics) |
| Battery Life | 10 hours (earbuds), 28 hours total with case |
| Charging Options | USB-C, Qi wireless charging, fast charging (1 hour playback in 15 minutes) |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 |
| Dimensions | 22mm x 25mm x 21mm (per earbud) |
| Weight | 6 grams per earbud |
| Special Features | Dolby Atmos, Transparency Mode, Multipoint Connectivity |
Design and Comfort
The EAH-AZ100 boasts a sleek and minimalist design, available in black, white, and silver finishes. Each earbud has a slightly angular shape that sits snugly in the ear without causing discomfort, even during prolonged use. Technics includes multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a secure fit, which is essential for achieving the best sound and noise-cancellation performance.
At just 6 grams per earbud, they’re lightweight, and the IPX4 water resistance rating makes them suitable for workouts or light rain. While not groundbreaking in design, the build quality screams luxury, with a smooth matte finish that resists smudges and fingerprints.
Sound Quality
The Technics EAH-AZ100 truly shines in the audio department. Equipped with proprietary fluid magnetic drivers, these earbuds deliver exceptional clarity and richness across the sound spectrum. The drivers are designed to reduce distortion, ensuring you hear every detail of your favorite tracks.
- Bass: The 3Hz frequency response ensures deep, resonant bass that doesn’t overwhelm. It’s punchy and precise, making it perfect for genres like hip-hop, EDM, or even cinematic soundtracks.
- Mids: Vocals and instruments in the midrange are warm and natural, with enough presence to stand out without sounding harsh.
- Highs: The treble is crisp and detailed, lending a sparkle to high-pitched instruments and vocals without veering into sibilance.
With support for Dolby Atmos spatial audio, the AZ100 creates an immersive listening experience that’s perfect for movie buffs and gamers.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
The ANC on the EAH-AZ100 is among the best in its class, rivaling industry leaders like the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds and Sony WF-1000XM5. Using a combination of hardware and AI-driven algorithms, the earbuds effectively eliminate background noise, whether it’s the hum of an airplane or the chatter in a coffee shop.
For those moments when you need to stay aware of your surroundings, the transparency mode performs flawlessly, allowing ambient sound to pass through with a natural quality.
Battery Life
The battery life is another strong point. The earbuds provide 10 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, even with ANC enabled. The charging case adds an extra 18 hours, bringing the total to 28 hours. The case supports wireless charging and fast charging, offering an additional hour of playback with just 15 minutes of charging.
Microphone and Call Quality
Each earbud features three microphones, ensuring clear voice pickup during calls. Noise-reduction technology works well to minimize background sounds, making it an excellent choice for professionals or those who frequently take calls on the go.
Connectivity and Features
The Technics EAH-AZ100 is equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring a stable and fast connection. It supports high-resolution audio codecs like LDAC, AAC, and SBC, catering to both Android and iOS users.
Pairing is seamless, and multipoint connectivity allows users to connect to two devices simultaneously. Whether you’re switching between a phone and a laptop or a tablet and a smartwatch, the transition is smooth and hassle-free.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality with proprietary fluid magnetic drivers.
- Top-tier ANC performance.
- Long battery life with wireless charging support.
- Dolby Atmos support for immersive audio.
- Premium build quality and comfortable fit.
Cons:
- Expensive compared to competitors.
- No IPX7 rating for full waterproofing.
- Limited EQ customization options in the app.
Final Verdict
The Technics EAH-AZ100 is a stellar addition to the world of premium earbuds. It’s a great choice for audiophiles and anyone who values high-quality sound, robust noise cancellation, and long battery life. While the price may seem steep, the performance and features justify the cost for those seeking the best.
If you’re ready to upgrade your listening experience, the EAH-AZ100 might just be your perfect match.
Also check out Technics EAH-AZ100 vs. Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
