British high-fidelity brand Cambridge Audio has unveiled its latest pair of true wireless headsets, which could pose a compelling challenge for the next AirPods 3. The Melomania 1 Plus costs $ 139, beating the cheapest AirPods model while promises more advanced features.
The main one is that Melomania 1 Plus, unlike the original Melomania 1 buttons, is compatible with the companion Cambridge Audio mobile app. In addition to custom EQ tuning, this gives Melomania 1 Plus a “High Performance Audio Mode”, which applies enhanced amplification of the same type as the company’s CX line of high-fidelity amplifiers.
This can unlock superior sound quality when playing high-resolution audio tracks and is one of several features that can give Melomania 1 Plus an edge over AirPods and the rest of the best wireless headphones on the market.
Battery life is relatively high for a true wireless pair: Cambridge Audio claims the Melomania 1 Plus is good for 9 hours per charge, with up to 45 available in the charging case. This is almost twice the longevity of AirPods, in both cases.
Melomania 1 Plus also supports the high-quality Bluetooth aptX codec, in addition to the standard SBC and AAC codecs. It is also compatible with Google Assistant and Siri.
There is no active noise cancellation (ANC), but that is rare for that price, and 10 relatively generous sets of replaceable tips come in the box. This helps to achieve a secure fit and maintain passive noise isolation.
Like Melomania 1, Melomania 1 Plus also has water resistance with IPX5 certification. Therefore, it is better protected against water ingress than standard AirPods, which do not have an IP rating, and AirPods Pro with an IPX4 rating.
Of course, Apple has a new model on the way, the AirPods 3, which leaks frequently, and they can be revealed at an Apple event on March 23. But it is always good to see high level competition, especially at a relatively affordable price point.