**Astell&Kern AK UW100MKII Earbuds: Impressive Sound, Yet Comfortable Fit and Features Leave Much to Be Desired**
In the realm of wireless earbuds, the selection is vast, accommodating various budgets and preferences. Astell&Kern, a name closely associated with high-resolution audio, has recently launched the **AK UW100MKII earbuds**, which are now retailing in India for a tempting price of ₹4,999 (around $58). Initially introduced at $299, this significant price reduction positions them as a compelling option for budget-conscious audiophiles. However, despite their remarkable sound performance, these earbuds exhibit considerable shortcomings regarding fit and features. Let’s explore further.
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### **Design: Unique yet Cumbersome**
The AK UW100MKII earbuds are notable for their striking hexagonal shape and a stylish Astell&Kern emblem on the faceplate. The accompanying charging case mirrors this distinctive design, though its size makes it less convenient to carry compared to rival products. Likewise, the earbuds themselves are bulkier than most mainstream alternatives, posing a challenge for users desiring a more subtle or comfortable fit.
Regrettably, the cumbersome design impacts usability. Numerous users, including critics, have noted challenges in securing a snug fit. Even during light activities like wandering around the home, the earbuds were prone to falling out, rendering them inadequate for exercise or outdoor usage. Though the earbuds come with **IPX4 water resistance**, the ill-fitting nature hampers their functionality for an active lifestyle.
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### **Sound Quality: Delightful for Audiophiles**
The AK UW100MKII excels in sound reproduction. Fitted with a **Knowles balanced armature driver** and an **AKM AK4332ECB DAC**, these earbuds provide a neutral sound profile that emphasizes clarity and detail over boosted bass or treble. This tuning recalls in-ear monitors (IEMs), making them an excellent selection for audiophiles who prioritize precision over the booming bass prevalent in consumer-oriented earbuds.
– **Bass:** The bass is clear and defined, but it lacks the vigor and energy that many users desire from wireless earbuds in this segment. A bass enhancement mode is accessible through the companion app, but it fails to rival the liveliness of competitors.
– **Mids and Treble:** The mids are well-articulated, delivering impressive vocal clarity, while the treble extends smoothly without becoming harsh. The soundstage is wide, and distortion or hiss is absent, even at elevated volumes.
For listeners who appreciate genres such as classical, jazz, or acoustic, the AK UW100MKII shines. However, those who lean towards bass-driven styles like EDM or hip-hop might find the audio less stimulating.
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### **Lacking Features: No ANC and Fit Concerns**
A significant drawback is the absence of **active noise cancellation (ANC)**. Although the earbuds provide ambient noise management, the lack of ANC becomes apparent, especially when compared to rivals in the same price range. The fit issues exacerbate this shortcoming, as the earbuds cannot form a dependable seal, limiting passive noise isolation.
The overall design and array of features imply that these earbuds are ideally suited for indoor settings, where outside noise is minimally disrupting. Nevertheless, this limitation renders them less versatile for users needing earbuds for commuting, travel, or in loud environments.
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### **Connectivity and Battery Endurance**
The AK UW100MKII supports **Bluetooth 5.2** and **AptX Adaptive**, allowing for high-resolution audio streaming via Bluetooth. The integration of **Google Fast Pair** streamlines the connection process, especially beneficial for users who frequently alternate between devices.
Battery longevity is another highlight, with the earbuds providing up to six hours of playback on a single charge. However, some users have encountered issues with the right earbud not sitting correctly in the charging case, resulting in uneven charging.
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### **Companion App: Basic Yet Effective**
The **AK Control app** (available on Android 15 and newer) enables users to customize the audio profile, modify DAC settings, and manage ambient noise control. Although the app serves its purpose, its compatibility limited to recent Android versions might hinder accessibility for some users.
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### **Should You Consider the AK UW100MKII?**
The Astell&Kern AK UW100MKII earbuds present a mix of pros and cons. On one hand, they offer superb sound quality that competes with much pricier alternatives, making them a solid option for audiophiles who prioritize sound fidelity. On the other hand, the bulky design, inadequate fit, absence of ANC, and restricted bass response render them less appealing to casual users or those seeking well-rounded versatility.
At ₹4,999, the AK UW100MKII delivers **extraordinary value** for budget-minded audiophiles. However, if you require earbuds with a more secure fit, enhanced bass, and features like ANC, consider alternatives such as the **
