In the past decade, the music listening experience on the go has undergone significant changes. AirPods have taken the market by storm, resulting in the phasing out of the traditional headphone jack. Additionally, there have been remarkable advancements in features like microphones and noise-canceling capabilities, making it more convenient for users. However, one aspect that hasn’t seen a major leap forward is audio quality.
Addressing this issue, xMems, a California-based company, has introduced solid-state drivers for earbuds, revolutionizing how sound is produced. Leveraging the same technology used in manufacturing microchips, these silicon earbud drivers offer a flatter, cleaner overall signature, along with enhanced durability compared to previous technologies. While initially tested in high-end titanium earbuds from Singularity Industries, xMems’ technology has now been made accessible to all through Creative Audio’s new earbuds, the Aurvana Ace and Aurvana Ace 2.
Creative Audio’s new earbuds have a similar design, featuring an elephant-trunked shape with black exteriors and copper-gold accents. Differentiating between the two models is possible by examining their charging cases. The standard Ace variant comes in an opaque black shell, while the Ace 2 model features a see-through gray case that reveals a shiny gold interior. Both versions incorporate xMems drivers; however, the Ace 2 model boasts superior processing. Furthermore, the Ace 2 supports lossless Bluetooth audio and adaptive noise canceling, elevating the audio experience.
With 18 hours of battery reserve and the ability to charge wirelessly using Qi or through USB-C, these earbuds offer convenience and ample playback time. For this review, the focus will be on the Ace 2 model, which provides the same drivers as the Ace with the added benefit of the advanced chipset. Priced just $20 higher than the Ace model, the Ace 2 is a more attractive option for consumers seeking top-notch audio quality for their money.
Convenience is a key factor in the overall user experience. The touch controls on the exterior of each bud allow for easy playback control. Users can tap twice to play or pause music, while holding the outside of each bud adjusts the volume (left decreases, right increases). Despite the convenience they offer, some users might find these touch controls challenging to use. In such cases, relying on Creative’s headphone app or smartphone controls may be a more viable option.
Another noteworthy aspect of these earbuds is the battery indicator on the charging case. The case features a simple and intuitive system to determine the battery level. The color of the LED light indicates the remaining battery life: red for 0-30%, yellow for 31-70%, and green for 71-99%. This feature is particularly useful for those who frequently carry their earbuds in bags and only recharge them infrequently.
For fitness enthusiasts, the Aurvana Ace 2 earbuds are suitable for intense workouts. With an IPX5 rating for water resistance, users can engage in activities that might cause them to sweat heavily without worrying about damaging the earbuds. Whether it be frequent trips to the gym or spending time in the sauna, these earbuds can withstand such conditions.
Overall, the introduction of xMems’ solid-state drivers in Creative Audio’s new earbuds marks a significant leap in audio quality. By incorporating this cutting-edge technology, users can experience a richer and more immersive sound. The durability of the silicon earbud drivers ensures a longer lifespan for the earbuds, offering users a reliable and long-lasting audio solution. This innovation in audio technology positions solid-state drivers as the future of earbud sound generation.
As technology continues to advance, we can expect further improvements in audio quality for portable devices. Manufacturers like xMems and Creative Audio are at the forefront of this evolution, aiming to provide users with the best possible audio experience. With the introduction of solid-state drivers, the gap between studio-quality sound and portable audio is rapidly narrowing.
In conclusion, the past decade has witnessed significant advancements in portable music listening, with the rise of AirPods and various feature enhancements. However, audio quality has seen limited improvement. Thankfully, with the introduction of xMems’ solid-state drivers in Creative Audio’s new earbuds, users can now experience a leap in sound generation technology. The Aurvana Ace and Aurvana Ace 2 models offer consumers the opportunity to enjoy the drivers of the future. With their sleek design, touch controls, and water resistance, these earbuds provide convenience and durability alongside superior audio quality. The implementation of solid-state drivers marks a turning point in the audio industry, signaling a bright and promising future for portable music listening.
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