# Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 Review: A Robust Upgrade for Bone-Conduction Fans
Bone-conduction headphones have established a unique spot in the audio industry, especially favored by athletes and outdoor lovers who value awareness of their surroundings. Shokz (previously known as AfterShokz) has been a pioneer in this field, and their newest offering, the **Shokz OpenRun Pro 2**, showcases their dedication to advancement. Featuring enhanced drivers, superior sound quality, and an emphasis on comfort, the OpenRun Pro 2 stands out in the bone-conduction realm. But does it justify its price? Let’s explore the specifics.
## **Android Central Verdict**
**Rating: 3 out of 5 stars**
The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 demonstrates noteworthy enhancements compared to its predecessor, particularly in audio quality and comfort. The implementation of **DualPitch technology** significantly elevates the sound experience, especially for users who found the earlier **TurboPitch** technology too intense. Although the OpenRun Pro 2 excels in several aspects, it does have a few drawbacks, such as its cost and bass performance limitations.
### **Pros:**
– **Build quality**: Sturdy yet lightweight, ideal for active individuals.
– **Enhanced audio**: Better bass response and overall sound clarity.
– **Less aggressive vibrations**: A more pleasant listening experience relative to previous versions.
– **In-app EQ settings**: Customize sound profiles to suit various tastes.
### **Cons:**
– **High cost**: Priced around $180, it leans on the expensive side for bone-conduction headphones.
– **Bass enthusiasts may be disappointed**: Although improved, the bass may not fully satisfy those looking for deeper, resonant lows.
## **What’s New in the OpenRun Pro 2?**
In the realm of bone-conduction headphones, the ongoing challenge has been to merge sound quality with the distinctive audio transmission method these devices employ. Conventional headphones deliver sound into your ear canal directly, whereas bone-conduction headphones transmit vibrations through your cheekbones, enabling you to hear while your ears remain unobstructed.
### **DualPitch Technology: A Significant Upgrade**
The previous version of Shokz headphones utilized **TurboPitch technology**, which stirred mixed feelings due to its powerful vibrations. The OpenRun Pro 2 unveils **DualPitch technology**, which effectively mitigates these vibrations while improving sound quality. This enhancement comes from the addition of non-bone-conduction speakers alongside bone-conduction transducers, providing a richer audio experience without the invasion of overwhelming vibrations.
### **Enhanced Comfort and Fit**
A notable attribute of the OpenRun Pro 2 is its comfort level. The wraparound neckband design guarantees a snug fit without constricting. Whether you’re running, cycling, or engaged in high-energy workouts, these headphones remain secure. The slim wires linking the transducers also facilitate compatibility with helmets, hats, and glasses, enhancing their adaptability.
## **Sound Quality: Improved, But Still Has Limits**
### **Bone-Conduction with Enhanced Bass**
Historically, bone-conduction technology has faced challenges in delivering profound bass. While the OpenRun Pro 2 marks an improvement in this area, it still doesn’t match the performance of traditional in-ear or over-ear headphones. The **DualPitch** system alleviates this somewhat by introducing a standard driver for lower frequencies; however, bass-heavy tracks might still feel lacking.
Nonetheless, for the average listener, the sound quality proves satisfactory. Songs like **Paul Simon’s “Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes”** and **Charles Mingus’ “Moanin’”** illustrate the headphones’ capability to handle vocals and instrumental clarity admirably. Yet, bass-intensive tracks like **Skrillex’s “Mumbai Place”** unveil the technology’s constraints, with sub-bass frequencies losing impact.
### **Podcasts and Movies**
For auditory content such as podcasts or lengthy videos, the OpenRun Pro 2 performs exceptionally well. Conversations are crisp, and the sound separation is sufficient to make viewing movies or TV enjoyable. The headphones also manage sound design in action sequences competently, making them a strong option for multimedia enjoyment.
## **Battery Life and Charging: Quicker and More Convenient**
The OpenRun Pro 2 offers an impressive **10-12 hours of battery life**, more than sufficient for an entire day’s use. A quick charge feature provides **2.5 hours of playback from merely a 5-minute charge**, ideal for those on the move.
A notable enhancement is the transition to **USB-C charging**. This represents a marked improvement over the older magnetic charging method, which was slower and less dependable. With USB-C, you can achieve over 50% charge in just 10 minutes, ensuring your music is always within reach.
### **Durability: A Slight Downgrade**
While the OpenRun Pro 2 showcases durability
