Are Edifier NeoBuds S Worth Buying for Audio Quality?

TL;DR

The Edifier NeoBuds S features aptX Adaptive codec for improved latency and decent battery life but falls short in sound quality compared to the Neobuds Pro. While they excel at noise cancellation and call quality, audiophiles may find their flat sound profile lacking, making them better suited for casual listeners who enjoy customizable audio.

Transcript

hey guys what i have here is the edifier neobuzz s now i see this as something like a refresh of the neobuds pro if you look at them side by side they look almost identical almost like they're twins right down to having nearly the same specs and features up to 5 hours on the buds and 20 in the case with noise cancelling ip54 water resistance even t... Read More

Key Insights

• 🎅 The Edifier Neobuzz S shares a similar design and functionality with the Neobuds Pro but aims to provide a different audio experience.
• 🎅 With Qualcomm's aptX Adaptive codec, the Neobuzz S targets users interested in improved latency and call quality, especially in gaming.
• ⌛ The earbuds exhibit impressive battery life at 5 hours on a single charge and 20 hours with the case, making them a practical option for extended use.
• 😊 Noise cancellation on the Neobuzz S is strong but differs in mid-range frequency performance when compared to the Pro model.
• 👂 Users looking for custom sound tuning will appreciate the app's equalizer capabilities, although the default sound may not cater to bass-heavy listening preferences.
• 👂 Call performance in diverse environments showed that the Neobuds Pro outperformed the Neobuzz S in terms of natural sound reproduction.
• 🖤 The Neobuzz S's sound profile is generally flat and lacks the richness and depth of the Pro model, which may deter audiophiles.

Questions & Answers

Q: How do the Edifier Neobuzz S compare in call quality against the Neobuds Pro?

The call quality of the Neobuzz S was less impressive than that of the Neobuds Pro. While the S model used aggressive noise gating, which helped it in quiet environments, it failed to produce natural-sounding voice quality in busy settings, making the Pro a better choice overall for clearer calls.

Q: What codec does the Edifier Neobuzz S utilize and how does it affect performance?

The Neobuzz S utilizes Qualcomm's aptX Adaptive codec, which allows for variable bit rates suited for different situations. This codec can provide high bandwidth for listening to music and low latency for gaming, offering a more versatile experience compared to the LDAC codec used in the Pro model.

Q: How effective is the noise cancellation on the Edifier Neobuzz S?

The noise cancellation on the Neobuzz S is quite commendable, performing well in testing against varying background noise. However, users might notice that while it's aggressive in removing noise, it may not handle mid-range frequencies as smoothly as the Neobuds Pro.

Q: Can the sound profile of the Edifier Neobuzz S be customized?

Yes, the Neobuzz S allows for sound profile customization via its accompanying app. Users can adjust the equalizer settings with up to four tuning bands, catering to personal sound preferences, although the original sound may lean towards a flat profile.

Q: How does the latency performance of the Edifier Neobuzz S fare in mobile gaming?

For mobile gaming, the latency of the Neobuzz S is generally low, especially on iOS devices. However, the performance on Android devices with Qualcomm snapdragon technology did not significantly outperform the Pro model, which was unexpected given the aptX Adaptive codec.

Q: What are the key differences between the Edifier Neobuzz S and the Neobuds Pro?

Key differences include codec support, with the S model using aptX Adaptive instead of LDAC, and slight variances in sound quality and noise cancellation effectiveness. The Neobuds Pro is preferred for audiophiles due to its warmer sound signature, while the S model may appeal to gamers due to its lower latency.

Q: Are the Edifier Neobuzz S worth purchasing over the Neobuds Pro?

The decision to purchase the Neobuzz S instead of the Pro ultimately depends on user preferences for sound quality versus codec support. The S may be better suited for users who prioritize low latency and battery efficiency, while the Pro appeals more to those seeking superior sound quality.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Edifier Neobuzz S shares many similarities with the Neobuds Pro, including specs and features, while introducing aptX Adaptive codec for improved latency and call quality.

• When tested, the Neobuzz S exhibited aggressive noise cancellation, better battery life, and impressive connectivity but fell short in sound quality when compared to the Neobuds Pro.

• The earbuds are suitable for users preferring sound customization but may disappoint audiophiles seeking high-fidelity audio experiences, particularly in mid-range frequencies.