SoundMagic has liberated its popular E11 series of in-ear headphones from the constraints of cords, introducing the new E11BT, which stands out as one of the best affordable headphone options. These headphones are particularly noteworthy for individuals on a budget. Sporting a design reminiscent of its predecessors, the E11BTs employ Bluetooth connectivity, tethered by a durable neckband.
Priced at £69.99 (approximately $90 / AU$125), the E11BTs are currently exclusively available in Europe, with no information on availability in other regions. We had the opportunity to test these wireless earbuds – here are our impressions.
Design
The E11BTs maintain a similar design to the wired E11Cs, with one significant alteration: the buds are now linked by a neckband, facilitating wireless connection to your device. The neckband exhibits robust construction, providing a comfortable fit around the neck with its flat profile.
Sporting an all-black design, the E11BTs exude a sportier aesthetic than the E11Cs, boasting an IPX4 waterproof rating, ensuring protection against minor splashes and sweaty workouts. However, it’s advisable not to expose them to prolonged water exposure, such as in the shower.
The bullet-shaped earbuds retain their signature small, lightweight, and elegant appearance, featuring aluminum housing adorned with the SoundMagic logo and model number on the left and right buds, respectively. A notable convenience is the magnetic connection between the earbuds, allowing for secure storage around the neck when unused.
The inline remote is located approximately two inches from the left earbud and incorporates volume controls and a multifunction button. The multifunction button facilitates music control, device pairing, and call management. Additionally, a micro-USB port on the side of the inline remote enables charging. SoundMagic provides a USB cable in the package—a small LED on the inline remote illuminates red during charging, transitioning to blue upon full charge.
Overall, the E11BTs maintain the elegant design language of their predecessors while transitioning to wireless connectivity. They offer an appealing aesthetic and retain the compact housing characteristic of SoundMagic products.
Features and Performance
The E11BTs deliver commendable audio quality, packing a surprising amount of sonic prowess into their diminutive form. Vocal reproduction is clear and smooth, exemplified by the rendition of Fleet Foxes’ “Blue Ridge Mountains,” owing to the custom-tuned drivers. These dynamic drivers also deliver substantial bass, courtesy of the vibration-generated air displacement. Listening to tracks like Kanye West’s “Flashing Lights” reveals impressive bass response and rich synth strings.
Treble frequencies exhibit sharp clarity with a satisfying level of attack, although they may occasionally verge on being overly sensitive. For those preferring a warmer sound profile, alternatives like the true wireless Earin M-2s, featuring balanced armature drivers, might be worth considering. Optimal sound quality with the E11BTs necessitates a proper selection of ear tips, provided in three different sizes, enhancing sound performance and isolation.
The E11BTs offer commendable sound isolation, effectively blocking out environmental noise when listening at moderate to high volumes. Even during podcast playback, where dialogue clarity is paramount, the headphones mitigate external disturbances sufficiently—playback control via the inline remote functions smoothly, with no reported connectivity issues. Pairing with smartphones proves effortless and hassle-free.
Stability concerns may arise for individuals considering these earphones for workouts or running. While they generally fit snugly, those seeking additional stability may prefer earphones equipped with wingtips to secure them within the ear’s conch.
Comfort is another strong suit of the E11BTs, even during extended wear. SoundMagic claims a continuous playback duration of 20 hours, though actual usage suggests that even with prolonged use, the battery depletion is minimal.
Final Verdict
The SoundMagic E11BTs stand out as a competent pair of wireless in-ear earphones, offering exceptional audio quality at an affordable price. Their elegant design, ergonomic ear tips, and comfortable flat neckband make them ideal for active use. With an IPX4 rating, they are well-equipped to endure rigorous workout sessions.
While they generally provide a secure fit, adding wingtips would enhance stability, especially for users on the move. Battery life is satisfactory, with a full charge achieved in just two hours via the included micro-USB cable.
For those seeking excellent value in neckband earphones, the SoundMagic E11BTs present a compelling choice. Their availability will extend beyond Europe shortly.
SoundMAGIC E11BT Neckband are ON SALE now on Amazon! Hurry up- Grab yours and enjoy. 🚀
As an affiliate I get a small fee from Amazon.
