Before launching the Phone (2), Nothing presents its new in-ears with the Ear (2). The true wireless headphones replace the Ear (1), which is no longer available. Don’t be fooled by the exterior, because a lot has changed technically.
Visually, little has changed, the Ear (2) look confusingly similar to their predecessors. The case, like the headphones made of white and transparent plastic, has become slightly smaller, the design carries nothing through. The actual innovations are hidden inside the headphones.
The in-ears score with Hi-Res Audio certification and support the LDHC-5 codec. The 11.6 millimeter driver, together with the improved sound processor and newly developed two-chamber design, promises a clearer sound. Active noise cancellation (ANC) can reduce ambient noise by up to 40 dB. With one battery charge, Nothing promises up to 36 hours of playback with intermediate recharging in the case.
Push instead of tap
The Nothing X app is required to set up the new headphones. Among other things, the sound profile of the headphones can be adjusted in the application, both via pre-defined modes and with a freely adjustable equalizer. The intensity of the active noise suppression can be adjusted in three stages. The app also includes an automated hearing test and adjusts the sound based on the results.
Unlike the Ear (1), the Ear (2) are no longer operated by touch. Like the cheaper Nothing Ear Stick, the plugs want to be pressed, which they acknowledge with an audible and tangible crack. Especially in sports, this type of operation reduces unwanted incorrect inputs, but overall the choice between touch and press remains a matter of taste.
The Nothing Ear (2) cost 149 euros and will be available from March 23, 2023, but initially only in the physical Nothing Store in London and at Deutsche Telekom. The remaining retailers Mediamarkt/Saturn, Cyberport, Amazon and Otto will follow a week later. Nothing had thrown the Ear (1) onto the market for just under 100 euros.
(sht)
