Snapdragon Sound is a game changer
One of the largest innovations in wireless audio has been announced: Qualcomm's brand new Snapdragon Sound technology.
No quiet revolution, in the words of the manufacturer Snapdragon Sound ‘is how sound should sound’. Understandably, audiophiles across the world are salivating, already planning to upgrade their smartphones and pay for Tidal. Anyway, what is this marvellous new technology and what does it do?
What is Snapdragon Sound?
Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound is an optimised chain of audio technologies and software is designed to completely overhaul wireless audio. Delivering higher-resolution music, crystal-clear voice calls, and lag-free gaming with superior connectivity and extended battery life, Snapdragon Sound brings improvements to every part of your listening experience.
As a brand new audio code, Snapdragon Sound delivers studio master quality, 24-bit, 96kHz high-resolution Bluetooth music thanks to Qualcomm® aptX™ Adaptive audio technology, promising cd-quality lossless audio on mobile devices for the first time.
In addition, Snapdragon Sound brings super wideband 32kHz voice quality via atpX Voice, producing richer, clearer calls across mobiles and accessories. With Snapdragon Sound, unwanted external noise is also diminished, resulting in a better user experience, even in noisy environments like busy commuter trains or city centre bus routes.
With an ultra low latency of just 89 milliseconds, users enjoy vastly improved audio from gaming to listening to their favourite tunes.
How can I enjoy Snapdragon Sound?
Currently there are only a handful of headphones, earbuds and smartphones that support Snapdragon Sound. If you want to enjoy the most innovative step in wireless audio for decades in the most accessible way, well, we suggest you look at two new products from Edifier.
Option #1 - Neobuds S
The new Neobuds S earbuds and Stax Spirit S3 planar headphones from Edifier deliver impeccable audio quality at a price point that won’t leave you broke. With a low-profile, ultra sleek appearance both of these options are receiving stellar reviews at the moment and when you look at them individually, you can see why…
The Neobuds S provide listeners with an experience traditionally found in over-ear headphones. Available in a more convenient, compact and wireless package, the buds match bi-amping with DSP-based active crossover technology to ensure the drivers are working in tandem, producing deep bass and crisp treble frequencies. The Neobuds S also features advanced noise-cancelling features utilising Edifier’s smartest ANC algorithm to date. Paired with an advanced 80ms low latency gaming mode, 6-hour playback (19hrs with the charging case) and 1-hour fast-charging capabilities, the Neobuds S are a premium option, capable of outperforming earbuds at double the price.
They currently retail for £149.99 at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Edifier-NeoBuds-Wireless-Cancellation-Headphones/dp/B09Y5P8VS3
Option #2 -STAX Spirit S3
The Edifier STAX SPIRIT S3 are a brand new pair of budget planar headphones (yes, you heard that right). For those who may not be familiar, STAX is a legendary Japanese audio brand which Edifier acquired in 2012. Best known for developing the first ever electrostatic headphones, or “EARSPEAKERS”, the name ‘STAX’ has been at the forefront of every major sonic innovation since 1938. Now, the new Edifier SPIRIT line continues this tradition, introducing technology previously unseen at this price point.
Inspired by the delicacy of exceedingly more precise electrostatic technology, the Edifier STAX SPIRIT S3 is designed with audio professionals and enthusiasts in mind. Setting a high technical threshold, the S3 uses finely tuned Planar technology, combining both the benefits of Dynamic and Electrostatic Drivers to achieve exceedingly detailed lower frequencies and clearer, more consistent high frequency performance.
Utilising a combination of Snapdragon audio technology; three patented planar driver solutions; Hi-Res Audio technology and innovative acoustic-friendly materials, the S3 delivers a truly memorable, lossless and low distortion audio experience. With a total weight of approximately 329g, the latest Bluetooth 5.2 technology and a high-capacity lithium battery (capable of holding a mighty 80 hours of battery life) the S3 are a solid choice for customers looking to utilise Snapdragon Sound.
They currently retail for £399.99 at
https://www.amazon.com/Edifier-Headphones-Bluetooth-Snapdragon-Audiophiles/dp/B09T9MTJNH
