AirPods Pro 3 In-Depth: Is the Sound Revolution Real?

Overview

The AirPods Pro 3, powered by the H3 chip, promise a sound revolution with enhanced clarity, a wider soundstage, and doubled active noise cancellation. While they offer exceptional comfort, seamless Apple ecosystem integration, and improved call quality, the lack of custom EQ is a notable omission for a 'Pro' device.

In this video

• The H3 chip in the AirPods Pro 3 enables lossless audio support and Adaptive EQ 2.0.
• Clarity in the 4-8kHz range is immediately noticeable, and the bass is described as tight, not boomy, with a wider soundstage.
• Dynamic Head Tracking in Spatial Audio is now so precise it feels almost unnerving, setting a new benchmark for earbuds.
• The earbuds have been reduced by half a gram per bud, now weighing 4.9 grams, which significantly enhances comfort for all-day wear.
• New vented, dual-silicone tips create a better seal without causing the plugged-up pressure sensation.
• The H3 chip doubles the active noise cancellation, capable of eliminating low-frequency rumble in environments like subways.
• The new Adaptive Transparency mode actively lowers harsh sounds in real-time, providing a 'magic-like' listening experience.
• The case features UWB for Precision Finding and offers an extra 30 hours of charge, with a quick charge providing 1 hour of listening from 5 minutes.
• Handoff between Apple devices like iPhone, MacBook, and iPad is now instantaneous and continues audio seamlessly without interruption.
• A third inward-facing mic combined with new AI noise reduction significantly improves call quality, filtering out most traffic noise in busy environments.

Frequently asked questions

What new audio technologies do the AirPods Pro 3 introduce?

The AirPods Pro 3 feature the new H3 chip, enabling lossless audio support and Adaptive EQ 2.0, which contributes to a noticeably wider soundstage and enhanced clarity, particularly in the 4-8kHz range.

How has the active noise cancellation (ANC) improved in the AirPods Pro 3?

The H3 chip doubles the active noise cancellation, effectively eliminating low-frequency sounds like subway rumble. Additionally, the new Adaptive Transparency mode dynamically lowers harsh sounds in real-time.

Are the AirPods Pro 3 comfortable for extended wear?

Yes, the earbuds now weigh 4.9 grams per bud and feature new vented, dual-silicone tips that provide a better seal without pressure, making them comfortable for all-day wear, even during a 6-hour flight.

What are the battery life and charging improvements for the AirPods Pro 3?

The earbuds themselves offer 5.5 hours of listening with ANC and Spatial Audio on. The case provides an extra 30 hours of charge and supports quick charging, giving an hour of listening from just 5 minutes in the case.

Do the AirPods Pro 3 offer custom sound equalization?

No, a notable drawback for a "Pro" device is the lack of custom EQ in the settings. Users are limited to Apple's default tuning, which may be a con for audiophiles seeking more personalization.