N9 & N5 Hybrid: Low latency guaranteed for AKG premium wireless headphones
One is a wireless headset, and the other is a pair of true wireless earphones. Respectively named N9 Hybrid and N5 Hybrid, these new products share characteristics that allow them to compete with the most popular in their category. However, they stand out for a subtlety that makes them unique.
Included 2.4GHz USB-C dongle for ultra-low latency
Both models come with a 2.4GHz USB-C dongle allowing for “instant and seamless wireless connection” from a smartphone or computer. Latency would thus be drastically reduced for better synchronization between image and sound.
Very practical, AKG has thought of dedicated compartments to store this dongle. It is housed behind the left earpiece of the N9 Hybrid, and inside the charging case of the N5 Hybrid. Each product also comes with a USB-A to USB-C adapter to adapt the dongle to computers without a USB-C port.
Bluetooth connectivity has also been improved, with multipoint support, as well as Fast Pair and Swift Pair compatibility for quick connection with Android and Windows devices. In addition, AKG announces wireless reception up to 24 bits thanks to support for the LDAC codec. Enough to enjoy Hi-Res music streaming services in good conditions.
Advanced technologies, worthy of the greatest
AKG's promises are also numerous in terms of user experience. First of all, we can count on customizable noise reduction that adapts to the environment in real time. The presence of a transparency mode is however not mentioned.
Call features have also been given special attention. Beamforming microphones isolate your voice from ambient noise while suppressing wind noise. With Smart Talk technology, the N9 and N5 can also automatically pause music as soon as you start talking.
Beyond their architecture, the differences between these two AKG references lie in their autonomy and their use. Respectively, after a single charge, the N9 and the N5 offer up to 55 hours and 6 hours of autonomy with noise reduction activated. However, expect lower performance if you use the 2.4 GHz USB-C connection.
The N9 and N5 will soon be available at prices of €349.99 and €279.99. Given the announced performance, they could prove very competitive with the excellent WF-1000XM5 from Sony and Momentum 4 from Sennheiser.
