Technics EAH-AZ80 Noise-Canceling True Wireless In-Ear Review

The Technics EAH-AZ80 are premium true wireless earbuds built for call quality and high-res audio. They feature excellent voice isolation and LDAC support, making them ideal for frequent callers and audiophiles. However, their noise cancellation and pure music performance, while good, are outmatched by some key competitors at this price.

If you're looking for premium true wireless earbuds with a focus on call quality and high-res audio, the Technics EAH-AZ80 should be on your radar. Priced around $198, they're a flagship option from Technics that promises top-tier noise cancellation and crystal-clear calls. They pack 10mm drivers, support for the LDAC codec for high-resolution wireless audio, and a unique 'JustMyVoice' feature designed to isolate your voice during calls. They're competing directly with heavyweights like the Sony WF-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds, but they carve out their own niche for people who take a lot of calls on the go.

Our database shows the AZ80 lands in the 41st percentile for sound quality and ANC performance. That means they're solidly above average, but they aren't chart-toppers. The LDAC support is a real highlight if you have a compatible music source, delivering more detail than standard Bluetooth codecs. For noise cancellation, the dual hybrid system is effective for commuting or a noisy office, but it doesn't quite reach the absolute silence you get from class leaders. The battery life is decent, sitting in the 60th percentile with about 7 hours of playback with ANC on, plus extra charges from the case.

At $198, the AZ80 sits in a competitive spot. You're paying a premium price, but you're getting a feature set tailored for business calls and audio purists who want LDAC. If your top priority is the absolute best noise cancellation or bass-heavy sound, you might find better value in a Sony or Bose model. But if call clarity is your make-or-break feature, the AZ80's specific tech justifies the cost.

Let's name names. Compared to the Sony WF-1000XM5, the Sony generally has better noise cancellation and a more exciting sound signature out of the box. The AZ80 fights back with superior call quality and LDAC support as a standard feature. Against the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds, the Bose wins on comfort and ANC sheer power, but the Technics offers better codec support and more features for the price. Then there's the cheaper Nothing Ear (a), which offers surprising performance for the money but can't match the AZ80's call tech or high-res audio capabilities. It's a trade-off between call excellence and pure noise-blocking prowess.

Skip the AZ80 if you're a hardcore gamer or if your primary goal is to achieve total silence with the best-in-class ANC. Competitive gamers should look for dedicated low-latency gaming earbuds. And if you never take calls and just want the most immersive, bass-forward music experience, the Sony WF-1000XM5 might be a better fit. They're also not the pick for budget shoppers, as cheaper options like the Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC offer solid performance for less.

Should you buy the Technics EAH-AZ80? Yes, but only if your use case aligns with its strengths. If you're on video calls all day, commute in windy areas, or prioritize high-res audio from services like Qobuz or Tidal, these are a fantastic choice. They're a specialist tool that excels in communication. However, if you just want the most immersive music experience with the strongest possible noise cancellation, and you don't take many calls, you'll likely be happier with a Sony or Bose. For the right person, these are a brilliant buy.