The Ultima Boom 181 ANC earbuds burst onto the scene with a bold claim: "The best under $15." This audacious statement demanded a thorough investigation. We put these earbuds to the test to see if they truly live up to the hype.
Key Specifications:
- Design: In-ear, silicone tips
- Drivers: 13mm Hi-fidelity drivers
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) up to 30dB
- Microphones: Quad-mic system (2 per earbud)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, HyperSync
- Features: 45ms low latency, Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC)
- Battery: 400mAh (case), 35mAh (per earbud)
- Charging: Fast charging (10 minutes for 2 hours of playback)
- Color Options: Space Black, Serene White
- Global Price: $14.59 (Launch Offer)
Design & Comfort:
The Ultima Boom 181 ANC boasts a sleek and modern aesthetic. The in-ear design, combined with the inclusion of multiple silicone ear tip sizes, ensures a comfortable and secure fit for most users. The lightweight construction minimizes ear fatigue during extended listening sessions.
Sound Quality:
Initial impressions of the audio quality were mixed. The default EQ profile delivered a bass-heavy sound signature, overpowering mid-range frequencies and diminishing vocal clarity. However, the inclusion of the Ultima Link app provides a much-needed equalizer.
- EQ Customization: The app offers a user-friendly interface with adjustable EQ settings, allowing users to fine-tune the sound to their preferences. Experimentation with the EQ settings significantly improved the audio quality, resulting in a more balanced and enjoyable listening experience.
Comparison with Competitors:
- Redmi Buds 5A: Offers a neutral, flat sound profile with minimal bass emphasis. While cleaner in sound, it may not appeal to bass enthusiasts.
- Anker Soundcore K20i: Provides a more refined audio experience with superior treble response, clarity, and dynamic range. However, it lacks ANC and transparency modes.
ANC Performance:
The Boom 181 ANC effectively reduces low-frequency ambient noise, such as the hum of an airplane or the rumble of public transport. While not industry-leading, the ANC performance is commendable at this price point.
Gaming & Call Quality:
With a claimed 45ms low latency, the Boom 181 ANC offers a decent gaming experience. Minimal audio delay was observed during gameplay, making them suitable for casual gamers.
Call quality is decent in indoor environments. The quad-mic system effectively suppresses background noise, ensuring clear voice transmission. However, outdoor performance can be impacted by strong winds or heavy traffic.
Conclusion:
The Ultima Boom 181 ANC presents a compelling value proposition. While the default audio tuning requires adjustment, the inclusion of the Ultima Link app empowers users to customize the sound to their liking.
Is it the "best under $15"?
Technically, yes. At its launch price, the Boom 181 ANC offers a competitive feature set, including ANC, transparency mode, and app support, at an unbeatable price. However, it's crucial to note that the MRP is significantly higher.
Pros:
- Effective ANC at this price point
- User-friendly app with EQ customization
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Competitive pricing (at launch)
Cons:
- Default EQ profile requires adjustment
- Outdoor call quality can be inconsistent
Overall:
The Ultima Boom 181 ANC is a strong contender in the budget TWS market. Its impressive feature set and competitive pricing (at launch) make it a compelling option for those seeking affordable earbuds with active noise cancellation. However, potential buyers should be aware of the significant price difference between the launch price and the MRP.
Disclaimer: This review reflects the author's subjective experience. Individual preferences may vary.
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