Shure has recently unveiled the second-generation version of its Aonic 50 headphones, and while the design remains largely unchanged, the company has made significant improvements to enhance overall performance. Priced at $349, these premium noise-canceling wireless headphones now come equipped with spatial audio, improved active noise cancellation (ANC), and a battery life that is twice as long as its predecessor.
When it comes to sound quality, Shure has incorporated its spatial audio technology into the new Aonic 50. This technology utilizes an algorithm based on acoustical modeling and critical listening, allowing for immersive audio experiences without compromising the original audio quality. The headphones offer three distinct modes: Music, Cinema, and Podcast. Each mode is specifically tailored to enhance the audio experience for different use cases. Music mode simulates the sensation of listening to high-end speakers, while Cinema mode adds more bass for a theater-like experience while maintaining clarity and natural-sounding dialogues. Podcast mode positions the host’s voice closer to the listener’s ears, creating an intimate listening experience. This audio enhancement is powered by 50mm dynamic drivers and Snapdragon Sound with aptX Adaptive, enabling seamless streaming of music in AAC, SBC, and LDAC codecs.
In terms of noise cancellation, Shure has replaced the “adjustable” ANC setup of the previous version with a new hybrid active noise cancellation system. This system utilizes microphones located both inside and outside of the ear cup to monitor and block environmental noise effectively. The Aonic 50 offers four different modes to control the amount of noise blocking and ambient sound: Light, Moderate, Max, and the new MaxAware mode. MaxAware is a unique option that strikes a perfect balance between blocking unwanted noise and maintaining awareness of the user’s surroundings. Additionally, Shure has introduced an Enhanced Environment mode that allows users to customize noise levels using a slider, providing more flexibility compared to standard presets.
One of the notable improvements in the second-gen Aonic 50 is the battery life, which has more than doubled. Users can now enjoy up to 45 hours of continuous listening on a single charge, a significant upgrade from the previous version’s 20-hour battery life. Additionally, the headphones feature a quick-charge function that provides five hours of usage with just a 15-minute charge. Shure also emphasizes superior call quality with the second-generation Aonic 50, thanks to beamforming microphones equipped with automatic gain control. The six built-in microphones adjust automatically to combat ambient noise, ensuring clear and uninterrupted conversations. While claims about voice performance can vary from user to user, Shure asserts that its technology offers unmatched clarity in this regard.
The Aonic 50 (2nd gen) is set to be available starting from September, allowing audio enthusiasts and professionals to enjoy these upgraded features in their listening experience. With improved sound quality, enhanced active noise cancellation, and an extended battery life, Shure aims to offer a top-of-the-line audio solution that caters to the needs of a wide range of users. As with any audio product, personal testing and experience will ultimately determine the true extent of these enhancements, but the impressive specifications of the second-generation Aonic 50 certainly pique the interest of those seeking an immersive and high-performance audio experience.
