So first impressions coming from Sony WI-1000-X’s and before that Bose Quiet comfort 20’s:
On the AirPod Pros:
- So far sound quality is not as good as the Sonys less punchy and certain tracks definitely sparkle less. The sound curve seems to be slightly designed for those who like bass (hence it will appeal to a lot of people/ reviewers etc). I like that they avoid the over-Dominant (but quite fun to listen to) Bose house sound. I will give them more time to open up.
Fit for me is OK. Bose still win hands down in this regard with their amazing Stay Hear wing tips. I use Crystalline Audio tips on the Sonys and they are a big improvement over the standard ones but the whole system is fiddly to put in and get a good fit (the neckband does not help matters!)
Noise cancelling is not as good as either of the other pairs full stop. It’s definitely better at sounds like traffic and the tube than random noises like talking. Bose are still the kings here I think. I don’t find the isolation great with any of the tips though so this could be part of the issue for me; the Bose tips are also still the best on the market I think. The Sonys never fitted me that well personally.
Usability has to be a 10/10 here - Apple have done amazingly on the form factor, battery life (given the tiny size), ergonomics, looks, and the way you can skip between devices.
Call quality seemed disappointing on first go- my partner struggled to hear me when I was walking along a busy road with both buds in. This is highly disappointing as I have always struggled in this regard with earphones and I was hoping this was the answer. Nothing beats a wired pair with the microphone physically near your mouth is seems. The Sonys were diabolical in this regard.
The jury is out on whether I keep them or go back to the Sonys. With good third party tips (if Crystalline or Comply decide to make them!) to improve isolation and sound quality and if I can work out the call quality issue these are an absolute winner. If not, they fall short.
