Headphones

Apple’s recent revamp of its AirPods range was something of a mixed bag. The flagship AirPods Max (HFC 500) merely gained a USB-C port for charging, while the mid-range Pro (HFC 490)mutated into a hearing aid. However, the entry-level AirPods received a major update that actually introduced two new models – the AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 With Active Noise Cancellation, with the latter introducing the isolation technology to the entry-level AirPods for the first time. There was a welcome cost cut too, as the prices were reduced to a more wallet-friendly £130 and £180 respectively.

At first glance the new AirPods look very similar to previous models, with the familiar open-ear design that rests in the outer ear and the trademark ‘stem’ that hangs down by the lobe. However, Apple states there are a number of changes both in and externally. This model uses the same H2 processor as the more expensive AirPods Pro, with the battery and H2 chip both moved into the stem, reducing the size of the earpieces in the process to provide a more comfortable fit. Apple also says that the acoustic architecture has been redesigned to provide: “richer bass and crisper highs”. Bluetooth remains the same with AAC supported, but no aptX for non-Apple devices.

As always, the one-size-fits-all approach means the AirPods avoids the silicon ear-tips that most of its rivals use to provide a firm seal. To be fair, the AirPods 4 fit me better than previous models have done.

The more compact design also affects battery life – down from six hours to five, which is further reduced to four hours when using noise cancelling. The charging case allows you to top up the battery to provide a total of 30 hours (20 with ANC). The standard charging case relies on a USB-C port for topping up, but the noise-cancelling version adds wireless charging. The earpieces and case are tougher too, now boasting a sturdy IP54 rating for resistance to water and dust.

Sound quality
I find that the loose-fitting design of the AirPods 4 requires the occasional adjustment in order to get a good fit and optimum sound quality – especially with lower frequencies – but when you find the sweet spot the little earbuds perform very well. The bouncing electronic bass on Bad Guy by Billie Eilish sounds taut and precise as it drives the track forward. The reverberating bass pulse that ends the song also impresses, sounding deep and sinister, and landing with decent impact.

The bittersweet Moments Of Pleasure by Kate Bush is a complete contrast, but the AirPods embrace the change of mood on the 2018 remaster. This track shows the full range of Bush’s voice and the AirPods follow along, soft and warm as she almost whispers the opening lines, but then soaring, crisp and clear in the chorus. But it’s the introduction of the Waynflete Chamber Choir that wafts me away, as the sadness of their wordless harmonies somehow manages to embody the melancholy mood of Kate’s evocative lyrics.

Conclusion
This track also reveals just how effective the new noise-cancellation features are. Apple has acknowledged that the open-ear design of its AirPods 4 can’t block out sound quite as effectively as the AirPods Pro or Max, and states that it will be most effective when dealing with low-frequency noise on trains or planes. And, much to my surprise, it really does subdue the low drone of an aircraft engine very effectively. Higher frequency sounds leak through a lot more, admittedly, but you should still be able to enjoy the AirPods 4 when you’re travelling, and it’s probably the relatively loose fit of that open-ear design that will ultimately decide whether you opt for a rival model that provides a firmer fit. CJ    

DETAILS
Product: Apple AirPods 4 With Active Noise Cancellation
Type: Bluetooth wireless earbuds

FEATURES
● Bluetooth 5.3, with SBC, AAC
● Battery: 5 hours (4 with ANC)

Read the full review in  Issue 521