TESTED HUAWEI FREEBUDS PRO 2
Huawei loves a bit of global teamwork, so it tapped up Devialet for some tuning tips on its new flagship true wireless in-ears
£170 / stuff.tv/FreeBudsPro2
■ This is the latest collab between Huawei and French sonic nerds Devialet. Dual drivers, hi-res audio support and adaptive EQ promise audiophile appeal, while adaptive noise-cancellation and dual-device connectivity make them a cheaper rival to the Apple AirPods Pro.
■ These buds’ stems have a thicker, squarer shape inspired by piano keys. They give plenty to grip when using the pinch gesture controls, which aren’t easily triggered accidentally. IP54 splash-resistance is fine for getting caught in the rain, but no more.
■ The dual drivers deliver a wonderfully engaging sound: dynamic and exciting, in a way that’s sure to please most listeners. There’s perhaps a little too much low-end wallop for those audiophiles, although the 10-band EQ lets you strip away some of that rumble.
■ Smart ANC switches the effect’s intensity on the fly, based on background noise. Low-frequency noises on public transport are all but silenced, and sudden loud noises can’t trip it up either. Transparency mode lets just the right amount of noise in without overwhelming your music.
■ The buds last about 4hrs with ANC enabled, rising to 6hrs with it switched off. AI-assisted voice calls sap the battery faster, but there is wireless charging.
■ Educating tweeters
In-ear detection works well, pausing tracks quickly when you pull out one bud but not when you’re ju
