We’re used to seeing new entries into the audio arena these days. With much of the world becoming mobile again (and Christmas fast approaching) the timing is right for Belkin to deliver. The new SOUNDFORM range includes three sets of earbuds and an on-ear option for kids with some clever, protective inclusions.
Stephanie Caulfield, Managing Director, Belkin ANZ gave a clear indication of how proud Belkin is to bring the range to market:
With the local launch of our SOUNDFORM Audio Range, we are proving once again that we’re not afraid to take on the challenging innovation and engineering work required to bring these connected experiences to a wide array of consumers. By bundling our headphones with the charging accessories consumers know and love from Belkin, we’re aiming to make a great audio experience even better while providing superb value to consumers along the way.
As a bonus to buyers, each of the new SOUNDFORM devices will come bundled with one of the extensive range of charging range of devices from Belkin.
SOUNDFORM Freedom True Wireless Earbuds – AU$199.95
The biggest of the range in terms of features and capabilities, the SOUNDFORM Freedom True Wireless has an impressive 8 hours of playback in the earbuds with a further 28 in the carry case. The battery will be easily boosted by using either the corded charging or wireless charging options.
They’re designed as a closed system with “environmental noise cancelling”, this makes them great for cutting a bit of general noise around you but not to the same level as active noise cancelling. The audio is said to pack quite a punch with a response range from 20 – 20,000Hz coming from the 8mm driver. This will undoubtedly rely on a good fit or “seal” in your ears to deliver the full range, but impressive nonetheless.
The Freedom True Wireless has touch controls for playback and call handling and are IPX5 rated, so a bit of rain or sweating at the gym won’t be a hassle. They will be bundled at launch with BOOST↑CHARGE™ Dual Wireless Charging Pad, letting users charge their earbuds and devices simultaneously.
SOUNDFORM Rise True Wireless Earbuds – AU$119.95
The Rise True Wireless carries the same controls, environmental noise cancelling, IPX5 rating, wireless charging and audio response range as the Freedom True Wireless. They’re touted to be an excellent option for podcasts, audio playback and phone calls for users who are looking for a more budget-friendly in-ear audio option.
The two main differences as you step down in the range to the Rise True wireless is the:
- Smaller, 6mm driver which will produce less “punch” to bass
- Reduced battery: 7 hours in the earbuds and 24 in the case
The included bonus with the Rise True wireless is a BOOST↑CHARGE™ Power Bank 10K (Multi-port). So you’ll be able to charge your earbuds and your other devices on the run.
SOUNDFORM Move Plus True Wireless Earbuds – AU$89.85
The entry level earbuds of the range carry most of the same capabilities as the previously mentioned models. The difference in battery life and passive noise isolation accounts for the price reduction of this model. With around 5 hours of playback, per charge and a further 19 in the case, so there’s still plenty of juice to get you through a couple of days of use.
You’ll still enjoy some pretty decent sound with a 6mm driver pushing the same audio response range to your ears as the other two models. You’ve got passive noise isolation keeping some of the hustle and bustle of daily life out while continuing to enjoy IPX5 rated earbuds.
Perhaps ideal as a first device in the Wireless earbud market as a gift or for someone who loses earbuds regularly. The Move Plus is still a pretty solid option that you’ll be able to charge easily on the included BOOST↑UP™ Wireless Charging Pad 10W.
SOUNDFORM Mini On-Ear Wireless Headphones for Kids – AU$39.95
Finally, for little ears, Belking brings the SOUNDFORM Mini On-Ear Wireless Headphones for kids. They’re simple, colourful and ensure that children can enjoy their favourite music and videos while protecting their sensitive hearing with an 85dB limit to playback volume.
To make learning to use them easier, kids get a larger set of buttons that are mechanical in design. They’re a closed-ear setup that reduces noise spray — a blessing if you’re a parent — and keeps some privacy for the wearer. Being a larger device there’s room for a bigger battery (delivering up to 30 hours of playback) and a bigger, 40mm driver for a bigger sound.
All three earbud options are available now at Big W with the kids on-ear coming soon.
