These Earbuds Have a Clip-On Microphone for Crystal-Clear Calls
▼ Summary
– Plantronics has released USB-C earbuds called the Conch One, which feature a microphone on a short cable instead of being integrated into the remote.
– The earbuds are currently only available through the company’s website and Amazon India for ₹1,999 (approximately $23).
– They include 14.2mm drivers for sound and an inline remote with volume/playback controls, a mic button, and a unique mode button.
– The mode button toggles between a listening mode with four EQ settings and a karaoke mode with eight different settings.
– The design may appeal to creators wanting a handheld mic alternative, but the hanging mic could be inconvenient for hands-free phone calls.
For anyone who spends a lot of time on calls or creating content, finding audio gear that delivers crystal-clear voice quality is a constant challenge. While many companies focus on making wireless microphones as small and discreet as possible, a significant number of users still prefer the tactile control of a handheld mic. Addressing this need, Plantronics has introduced the Conch One, a pair of USB-C earbuds that feature a unique design: the microphone is not built into the earbuds or a remote, but is instead attached to a short cable via a clip.
Initially, the Conch One earbuds are available primarily through the company’s own website and on Amazon India, priced at approximately $23. They are equipped with 14.2mm drivers, promising a powerful and rich audio experience. The inline remote is more than just a simple controller; it houses buttons for volume adjustment, playback, and microphone mute, plus a distinctive mode button. A long press on this button switches between two distinct settings: a listening mode with four customizable EQ presets to tailor your music, and a separate karaoke mode that offers eight different vocal effect settings.
Specific details regarding the microphone’s technical specifications, such as its type or polar pickup pattern, have not been released by the company. This leaves some questions about its performance in noisy environments. The concept, however, is compelling. As content creators sometimes resort to creative methods like clipping lavalier mics to everyday objects to simulate a handheld feel, the Conch One presents a straightforward and affordable alternative. It’s a wired solution that will function as long as your smartphone or computer has power.
There is a potential trade-off in convenience. For users whose primary need is simple phone conversations, a traditional inline microphone positioned near the mouth might be more practical. When not actively being held, the Conch One’s microphone appears to dangle freely, which could make it less ideal for true hands-free use during calls. This design clearly prioritizes the content creator or avid caller who wants direct control over the mic’s position for optimal sound capture.
(Source: The Verge)
