Description
Retro Design Meets Advanced Sound Technology
The Moondrop Golden Ages TWS Earphones (model “Golden Ages”) bring a unique blend of retro aesthetics and cutting-edge audio performance. I’ve had my hands (and ears) on these for quite some time now, and let me say, they’ve left an impression. The 13mm planar magnetic driver, a proprietary design by the brand’s founder, isn’t just a spec—it’s a game-changer. If you’re someone who values sound quality as much as I do, you’ll notice the crispness and depth of audio right away. Whether I was listening to music or catching up on podcasts, the clarity was remarkable.
The design truly stands out. It feels like a nod to the golden era of sound equipment, but with a modern twist. The earphones are lightweight yet durable, and the rounded earpiece shape sits comfortably in the ear. I wore them for hours without discomfort, which is a big plus for someone like me who often forgets they’re even on.
Audio Performance That Stands Tall
Audio quality is where these earphones truly shine. The planar magnetic driver delivers a level of clarity that’s rare in this price range. From the low-end bass to the high-end trebles, everything feels balanced and immersive. I tested these with a variety of genres, from classical to EDM, and they handled every track beautifully. The LDAC high-definition lossless audio transmission protocol ensures that the sound remains true to the source, even over Bluetooth.
For gamers, the 55ms low-latency game mode is a hidden gem. I’m not much of a gamer myself, but my nephew tried them out with his favorite mobile games, and he was impressed with the responsive audio. This feature ensures there’s no lag between what you see on the screen and what you hear, which can be a game-changer (pun intended) for competitive play.
Good Points
- 13mm planar magnetic driver offers exceptional audio clarity and balance.
- LDAC protocol ensures high-definition, lossless sound over Bluetooth.
- 55ms low-latency mode is perfect for gaming and video streaming.
- Retro-modern design is both stylish and comfortable.
- Touch controls are intuitive and responsive.
The Fit and Comfort Factor
I’ve tried my fair share of earbuds, and fit is always a hit-or-miss situation. With these, it’s a definite hit. The rounded tip design ensures they fit snugly without causing discomfort. Even during a sweaty workout (yes, I tested them at the gym), they stayed securely in place. The earphones feel so natural that I almost forgot I had them in while binge-watching Netflix.
The touch controls are another win. They’re easy to use and eliminate the need to fumble with my phone. Whether it’s pausing a track, skipping songs, or answering calls, the controls worked seamlessly and added to the overall convenience.
Noise Cancellation: Does It Deliver?
The 44dB depth wide-band Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is decent. While it doesn’t completely block out noise in extremely loud environments like busy streets or airplanes, it does a commendable job in quieter settings. I found it particularly useful in coffee shops or at home when I wanted to focus. The single feedforward ANC design prioritizes sound quality, so you don’t get that annoying hollow sensation some ANC earbuds tend to create.
That said, if you’re looking for absolute silence, you might find the noise cancellation a tad underwhelming. It’s great for reducing ambient noise, but it won’t turn a noisy train ride into a serene escape.
Critiques
- ANC is effective but not on par with higher-end competitors.
- Battery life is decent but could be longer for extended usage.
- The case feels slightly bulkier compared to other models I’ve used.
- No headphone jack, which might be a bummer for some.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is another area where these earphones perform well, though not exceptionally. The 6-hour battery life on the earbuds themselves is sufficient for daily use. Add the 18 hours from the charging case, and you’ve got a total of 24 hours of playtime. Charging is quick, with the earbuds taking about an hour and the case about 1.5 hours via USB-C. While the battery life is solid, it’s not groundbreaking. For someone like me who’s constantly listening to music or podcasts, I found myself reaching for the charger more often than I’d like.
Product Competitors
Comparing these to other earbuds in the market, the Moondrop Golden Ages hold their own. For instance, against the Sony WF-1000XM4, the Moondrop earbuds excel in audio clarity and retro design, but they fall slightly behind in noise cancellation and battery life. Similarly, when pitted against the Apple AirPods Pro, the Moondrop earphones offer better sound reproduction, thanks to the planar magnetic driver, but they lack the seamless ecosystem integration Apple users enjoy.
One area where the Moondrop earbuds stand out is their gaming mode. Neither the Sony nor Apple models offer a comparable low-latency feature, making these a better choice for gamers. However, if you’re an audiophile looking for absolute perfection in noise cancellation, you might lean toward the Sony option.
Value for Money
For the features packed into these earphones, they offer impressive value for money. The sound quality alone could justify a higher price tag, not to mention the unique design and gaming mode. While they’re not the cheapest earbuds on the market, they’re certainly not the most expensive either. Considering the planar magnetic driver technology, LDAC support, and comfortable fit, I’d say they’re a solid investment for anyone who prioritizes audio quality over flashy extras.
If you’re a gamer, an audiophile, or someone who simply loves good sound, these earphones are worth considering. Just remember, they’re not perfect. Noise cancellation could be better, and the battery life, while decent, won’t blow you away. Still, for what they offer, they’re a compelling choice in a crowded market.
