Tried Apple’s First Wireless Headphones, the ‘AirPods Max’
[Asia Economy Reporter Eunmo Koo] Apple’s first wireless headphones, the ‘AirPods Max,’ live up to their name as a truly ‘Apple-like’ product. The design, with harmonious materials and colors for each part, satisfies aesthetic desires, and the simple operation provides a high level of immersion. Above all, the various high-performance features expected of an audio device are likely to add pride for buyers. However, due to the high price creating a significant entry barrier, maintaining a certain distance from the general public seems inevitable.
The most anticipated feature of the AirPods Max, ‘Active Noise Cancelling (ANC),’ did not disappoint and showed satisfactory performance. When playing music and activating the noise-cancelling function ANC, it lightly blocked surrounding indoor conversations and effectively blocked street car noises and subway noise during commuting.
Compared to the already excellent noise-cancelling performance of the ‘AirPods Pro,’ the AirPods Max showed competitive results. Unlike the in-ear (canal-type) AirPods Pro, the AirPods Max are over-ear headphones that completely cover the ears. While the noise cancellation performance was similar, there was a space between the ear and the memory foam ear cushions, giving the impression of less resonance and pressure on the ears, making them feel a bit more comfortable. The transparency mode was also natural enough that the external sounds coming through the microphones did not feel intrusive.
The most essential feature, sound quality, also stood out. When playing orchestral pieces combining various instruments, each sound from bass to treble was distinctly separated. Rather than emphasizing a specific range of sounds, various sounds were overall clean and clear, creating a balanced sound impression.
The simple controls were another attractive element. The AirPods Max can intuitively operate various functions with just two buttons: the ‘Digital Crown’ and the ‘Noise Control button.’ The Digital Crown allows volume adjustment, audio play/pause, track skipping, answering/ending calls, and activating Siri, while pressing the Noise Control button switches between ANC and Transparency mode.
Despite excellent performance as an audio device, some drawbacks were found during use. First, the product’s weight was relatively heavy at 385g. The aluminum ear caps and steel frame have neat and premium finishes, clearly reflecting Apple’s design identity. However, compared to other products using plastic, this comes at the cost of over 100g more weight.
The headband also appeared vulnerable to contamination, raising questions about durability. The center of the AirPods Pro’s headband is made of knit mesh material, which clearly reduces pressure on the user’s head when worn. However, it seemed at risk of damage from fingernails or other factors when putting on, taking off, or carrying. Additionally, the ear cushions, aside from providing comfortable wear, could become contaminated with cosmetics, so caution is needed during use.
Above all, the price set at 719,000 KRW could act as a barrier to sales. Considering that Sony’s ‘WH-1000XM4,’ regarded as a competitor, has dropped to the 300,000 KRW range, it seems difficult to view the AirPods Max as targeting the mass market. Of course, as an Apple product that has built trust and secured a fandom over several years, this concern might be unfounded.
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