Apple AirPods Pro 2: A Game Changer Against Road Noise?
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Chapter 1: Understanding Noise Pollution
As someone who frequently walks near a busy road, I often find myself struggling to enjoy podcasts amid the cacophony of cars, SUVs, and trucks. The introduction of the AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) promised to alleviate this issue, claiming effective noise cancellation against loud disturbances, including heavy traffic.
I’ve always disliked noise, but it wasn’t until I stopped driving a few years ago that I realized just how pervasive road noise is. The sound from trucks can be startling, and I was oblivious to the noise pollution I contributed to as a driver. Now that I walk everywhere, the struggle to hear my podcasts becomes increasingly evident when traffic increases.
Upon releasing the 2nd generation AirPods Pro, Apple emphasized their ability to block out significant noise, akin to quenching a thirst for silence with a refreshing drink priced at $249. Skeptical yet intrigued, I decided to put them to the test.
Section 1.1: Unboxing the AirPods Pro 2
The unboxing experience was delightful, showcasing Apple's knack for making even the simplest tasks feel premium. I noticed that the new AirPods looked similar to the original version, with the case now featuring sound-producing holes at the bottom. The AirPods paired effortlessly with my iPhone 12 Pro Max, appearing on the screen immediately without any hiccups.
However, achieving a comfortable fit for my ears proved more challenging. Given that effective noise cancellation relies on a snug fit, I needed to ensure that the ear tips optimized sound isolation.
To check the fit, I navigated to the Bluetooth settings on my phone, where I could enable noise cancellation and run an “Ear Tip Fit Test.” This test involved playing a tune and using the AirPods’ microphones to assess the quality of the seal.
After testing the provided tips, I found a good fit in my right ear, but my left ear required a larger tip for optimal performance. While the music sounded fantastic, especially with rich bass, I was eager to see how they would fare in real-world conditions.
Field Trial: Testing the AirPods Pro 2
On a quiet Saturday morning, I set out to evaluate the AirPods Pro in an urban environment. Although weekend traffic is typically lighter, I wanted to gather data on how they handled ambient noise. To quantify the noise levels, I utilized my Apple Watch's ambient noise measuring app, which provided insights into the decibel levels generated by passing vehicles.
The results were telling: cars produced around 76 to 78 decibels, while SUVs reached approximately 80 decibels. Alarmingly, trucks emitted noise levels exceeding 83 decibels, prompting the noise app to alert me with an orange indicator.
To illustrate the sound experience, here's a recording I made of the traffic passing by.
So, how did the AirPods Pro perform? With noise cancellation activated, I could still perceive the traffic noise, but it was significantly reduced. I could enjoy my podcast without straining to hear. Switching to transparency mode allowed more background noise, which felt distracting, so I reverted to full noise cancellation.
Interestingly, the fit of the left AirPod did not seem to impact noise management as much as I anticipated. In hindsight, I spent too much time adjusting it.
Conclusion: A Satisfying Experience
Overall, I am quite pleased with my new AirPods Pro. They allow me to enjoy podcasts while walking on busy roads, fulfilling their promise. Additionally, they provide a wonderful listening experience at home, enhancing music with warm bass tones.
While my Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones offer superior noise cancellation, they are bulky and not ideal for walking. I prefer staying aware of my surroundings, particularly in traffic. Plus, the Sony headphones are more conspicuous, potentially drawing unwanted attention.
For more information on the AirPods Pro, visit Apple's official page.
Explore how Personalized Spatial Audio adapts to your unique ear shape for a tailored listening experience at www.apple.com.
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