Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 Wireless Headphones: A Top Pick for Audiophile-Quality Wireless Headphones

Audiophiles rejoice! The Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 over-ear headphones provide an outstanding listening experience rivaling high-end home audio systems. As an upgrade to the popular AONIC 50, the Gen 2 model takes sound quality and usability to new heights.

Overview

The Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 Wireless Headphones brings studio-grade audio performance to a sleek, lightweight wireless headphone design. Developed by audio engineers with decades of professional experience, these headphones feature custom-tuned 50mm drivers for rich, nuanced sound across the frequency range.

Design

The Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 Wireless Headphones feature an all-black color scheme with metal and high-quality plastic components for a clean, minimalist aesthetic. The over-ear cups and padded headband provide a comfortable fit for extended wear. The folding design allows the headphones to fold into a more compact shape for portability.

Premium, Studio-Quality Sound

Shure has a long-standing reputation in the audio industry, particularly for their microphones and in-ear monitors. This expertise translates to the AONIC 50 Gen 2, where the custom-engineered 50mm dynamic drivers deliver a balanced and nuanced sound that caters to audiophiles. Unlike many consumer headphones that emphasize bass, these prioritize accuracy and detail retrieval across the frequency spectrum. This makes them suitable for a wide range of music genres, from classical to electronic.

Spatialized Audio

This is a relatively new technology in headphones that aims to create a more immersive listening experience. It works by processing the audio to simulate the effect of listening to speakers in a room, widening the soundstage beyond the confines of your head. The AONIC 50 Gen 2 offers three spatialized audio modes:

• Music Mode: Expands the soundstage to make it feel like you’re listening to a live performance.
• Cinema Mode: Optimized for movies and TV shows, creating a more cinematic audio experience.
• Podcast Mode: Focuses on clarity and intelligibility of speech.

While spatial audio can be effective, user reviews suggest that its implementation in the AONIC 50 Gen 2 might not be as refined as some competitors. Some find it introduces an unnatural quality to the sound, particularly in Music Mode. This is a subjective aspect, and it’s worth experimenting with the different modes to see if it enhances your listening experience.

Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling

Active noise cancellation (ANC) technology uses microphones to detect external noise and generate opposing sound waves to cancel it out. Hybrid ANC takes this a step further by using both feedforward and feedback microphones. Feedforward microphones are positioned on the outside of the earcup to detect incoming noise, while feedback microphones are placed inside the earcup to monitor the residual noise. This dual approach allows for more effective noise cancellation across a wider range of frequencies.

In the AONIC 50 Gen 2, the hybrid ANC has been improved over the previous generation. It effectively reduces ambient noise like traffic, airplane engines, and office chatter, creating a quieter listening environment. However, some users report that it struggles with wind noise, particularly when wind blows directly into the rear vent holes on the earcups. This is a common issue with ANC headphones, as wind noise can be difficult to cancel effectively.

Extended Battery Life

With a claimed battery life of up to 45 hours, the AONIC 50 Gen 2 offers exceptional longevity. This is a significant improvement over the previous generation and puts it ahead of many competitors in the market. The extended battery life makes these headphones ideal for long trips or extended listening sessions. The quick charge feature is also a valuable addition, providing 5 hours of use with just a 15-minute charge.

Customizable EQ

The ShurePlus PLAY app provides a comprehensive EQ section where users can fine-tune the sound to their preferences. This includes several preset EQ curves tailored to different genres or listening preferences, as well as a fully parametric EQ for those who want more granular control. The ability to save custom EQ profiles directly to the headphones is a convenient feature, as it ensures your preferred sound settings are applied regardless of the audio source.

Premium Communication

Clear call quality is essential for any wireless headphone, and the AONIC 50 Gen 2 excels in this area. Beamforming microphone technology focuses on capturing your voice while minimizing background noise, and automatic gain control ensures consistent volume levels even if you move the microphone closer or further from your mouth. These features combine to deliver clear and intelligible call quality, even in challenging environments.

Bluetooth 5 Wireless Technology

Bluetooth 5 offers several advantages over previous versions, including improved range, stability, and energy efficiency. The AONIC 50 Gen 2 utilizes a Class 1 Bluetooth transmitter, which provides a longer range of up to 100 meters (320 feet). This is particularly useful in situations where you might need to move away from your audio source, such as when working out at the gym or walking around the house.

Wired Connectivity

While wireless connectivity is the primary mode of operation for the AONIC 50 Gen 2, it also offers wired connectivity options for added versatility. The included 3.5mm analog audio cable allows you to connect to devices that lack Bluetooth or when you want to conserve battery life. The USB-C cable serves a dual purpose: charging the headphones and enabling high-resolution audio streaming from a computer or compatible mobile device.

Comfort Fit

Comfort is paramount for headphones designed for extended use, and the AONIC 50 Gen 2 delivers in this regard. The earcups are generously padded with soft, high-density foam, providing a comfortable seal around the ears. The headband is also padded and adjustable to accommodate different head sizes. However, it’s worth noting that some users with larger heads have reported that the headphones can feel tight and uncomfortable at full extension. This is something to keep in mind if you have a larger head size.

Durable Construction

The AONIC 50 Gen 2 headphones are built to last, with a robust construction that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The frame is constructed from durable materials, including metal yokes and hinges, ensuring long-term reliability. The earcups and headband are covered in a premium synthetic leather that is both soft and durable.

Convenient Controls

The right earcup houses physical buttons for controlling music playback, calls, and volume. These buttons provide tactile feedback, making them easy to use without having to look at the headphones. The controls are intuitive and well-placed, allowing for easy operation.

Included Accessories

The AONIC 50 Gen 2 headphones come with a compact carrying case to protect them during travel. The case is well-made and provides adequate protection for the headphones. Also included are a 3.5mm analog audio cable and a USB-C cable.

Value

With premium drivers and components, customizable sound, and extensive battery life, the Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 Wireless Headphones deliver tremendous value for the price point. Audiophiles will be hard-pressed to find a more capable wireless headphone that can match the expansive, detailed sound. For critical listening on the go, these headphones are a superb investment.

Conclusion

The Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 wireless headphones are a compelling option for those seeking a premium audio experience. They excel in sound quality, noise cancellation, and battery life. While there are some minor areas for improvement, such as the spatial audio implementation and wind noise reduction, the overall package is impressive. If you prioritize audio fidelity, comfort, and build quality, the Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 are definitely worth considering.