Dyson, the company synonymous with high-tech vacuums and bladeless fans, surprised the tech world with its headphone debut in 2022. The Dyson Zone, with its built-in air filtration system, offered a novel solution to urban pollution and allergens. However, its hefty price tag and underwhelming battery life left many consumers wanting.
Fast forward to 2024, and Dyson is back with a new offering – the Dyson OnTrac headphones. This time, the focus is clear: pure, unadulterated audio. Let’s delve into what the OnTrac brings to the table and how it differentiates itself from its predecessor.
Ditching the Gimmick, Embracing Audio Excellence
The most striking difference between the Zone and the OnTrac is the absence of the air purification system. The bulky design of the Zone, criticized for its lack of comfort, is a thing of the past. The OnTrac boasts a sleek, streamlined design that prioritizes ergonomics.
Dyson claims the OnTrac delivers exceptional audio quality. The headphones feature 40mm neodymium drivers with a wide frequency response (6Hz to 21kHz) – exceeding the standard range (20Hz to 20kHz) for capturing a richer and more nuanced soundscape. Additionally, the drivers are positioned at an angle to deliver sound directly into the ears, minimizing distortion and maximizing audio fidelity.
Active Noise Cancellation: A Silent Symphony
One of the core strengths of the OnTrac is its Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology. Dyson claims the OnTrac can cancel out up to 40dB of ambient noise. This translates to a more immersive listening experience, free from the distractions of traffic, office chatter, or airplane hum. Whether you’re lost in your favorite music, engrossed in a podcast, or taking an important call, the OnTrac promises to keep unwanted noise at bay.
Battery Life Gets a Boost
Another major criticism of the Zone was its underwhelming battery life. The OnTrac addresses this concern head-on. Dyson boasts a staggering 55 hours of listening time with ANC turned on. This translates to nearly two and a half weeks of use on a single charge – a significant leap from the Zone’s limited lifespan.
This extended battery life makes the OnTrac perfect for long journeys, extended gaming sessions, or simply enjoying uninterrupted audio experiences throughout the day.
Customization for the Discerning Listener
The OnTrac isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Recognizing the diverse preferences of audiophiles, Dyson offers a variety of customization options. The ear cups and outer caps are interchangeable, allowing users to personalize the look and feel of the headphones.
Furthermore, the OnTrac app provides granular control over the ANC experience. Users can adjust the level of noise cancellation to suit their environment, maximizing focus in noisy settings or allowing some ambient noise to filter through for better situational awareness.
A Farewell to the Filtered Future (For Now)
The decision to remove the air purification system from the OnTrac might leave some curious. While the technology was innovative, its effectiveness in tackling real-world air pollution was debatable. Additionally, the bulky design and limited battery life likely hampered the Zone’s appeal.
Dyson seems to have taken these criticisms to heart. The OnTrac represents a renewed focus on core audio functionalities, delivering exceptional sound quality, top-tier ANC, and impressive battery life. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean the end of Dyson’s air purification ambitions in the headphone space.
Technological advancements could pave the way for a future iteration that seamlessly integrates air purification with a more streamlined design and improved battery efficiency. Only time will tell if Dyson revisits this concept, but for now, the OnTrac represents a compelling option for audiophiles seeking a premium listening experience.
Dyson OnTrac: A Strong Contender in the Audio Arena
The Dyson OnTrac marks a significant shift in the company’s foray into headphones. By prioritizing audio quality, comfort, and battery life, the OnTrac positions itself as a serious contender in the competitive headphone market. Whether it can dethrone established brands remains to be seen, but the OnTrac undoubtedly offers a compelling combination of features for discerning listeners seeking an immersive and uninterrupted audio experience.
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