In the crowded true wireless market, the name Technics carries a weight of audiophile history. Known for legendary turntables and high-fidelity audio gear, their entry into the earbud space comes with high expectations. The Technics EAH-AZ80 are their flagship offering, promising not just noise cancellation, but a true Hi-Fi experience with features like Hi-Res Audio and 3-device multipoint connectivity. We tested them to see if this legacy brand can compete with the modern titans of the earbud world.
Technics EAH-AZ80 Hi-Fi Wireless Earbuds
Audiophile-grade earbuds for the modern professional, offering exceptional sound clarity, advanced noise cancellation, and seamless multi-device connectivity.
Design and Fit: Ergonomic Excellence
The Technics AZ80 earbuds have a unique, ergonomic design that contours to the natural shape of the ear. This "concha-fit" design, combined with a generous selection of seven different sizes of silicone ear tips, ensures a highly secure and comfortable fit for nearly any user. They feel snug and stable without exerting pressure, making them suitable for long listening sessions or light workouts.
The earbuds themselves have a premium feel, with a distinctive circular touch panel featuring the Technics logo. The aluminum charging case is compact, stylish, and supports Qi wireless charging—a welcome convenience.
Performance: An Audiophile's Delight
Where the AZ80 truly shines is in sound quality. Leveraging their Hi-Fi heritage, Technics has tuned these earbuds for clarity, detail, and precision. They support the LDAC codec for Hi-Res Audio streaming over Bluetooth, and the difference is immediately noticeable. The sound is spacious and detailed, with a natural and well-balanced frequency response.
Instruments have a realistic texture, vocals are crystal clear, and the bass is tight and controlled rather than boomy. This is a sound profile designed for critical listening, revealing new layers in your favorite tracks.
The noise cancellation is also excellent. While it may not reach the absolute silence of the Bose QC Ultra, it is highly effective at reducing low-frequency drones and ambient chatter, making them great companions for commuting and travel.
Features and Connectivity
The standout feature for productivity is the 3-device multipoint connectivity. The AZ80 can be actively connected to three devices at once—for example, a laptop, a tablet, and a phone—and switch between them seamlessly. This is a game-changer for anyone juggling multiple devices throughout the day and a feature that few competitors offer.
The Technics Audio Connect app is robust, offering deep customization of EQ, noise cancellation levels, and touch controls. Battery life is solid, providing up to 7 hours of playback with ANC on, with the case holding an additional 17 hours of charge.
What We Like
- Superb Hi-Res Audio quality with LDAC support.
- Game-changing 3-device multipoint connectivity.
- Excellent comfort and secure fit.
- Effective noise cancellation.
- Wireless charging case.
What We Don't Like
- No spatial audio feature.
- ANC is great but not the absolute best in class.
Verdict
The Technics EAH-AZ80 are a phenomenal pair of earbuds for a specific type of user. If you are an audio enthusiast who prioritizes sound fidelity and detail, or a professional who needs flawless connectivity across multiple devices, these are arguably the best earbuds on the market. The 3-device multipoint is a killer feature that makes them a productivity powerhouse.
While they may lack the "wow" factor of spatial audio and fall just shy of Bose's noise-cancelling prowess, they more than make up for it with their exceptional sound quality and unparalleled connectivity. For those who value substance and performance, the Technics AZ80 are a truly premium choice.