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www.aftershokz.com Tech Specs: |
Outstanding Wireless Audio Via Bone-Conduction Technology
While I don’t condone using any sort of earbuds or headset while cycling outside, I realize that some cyclists do in fact use them. If you must listen to tunes or answer a phone call, I’d highly recommend the AfterShokz Trekz Titanium wireless headset, which is ideal for outdoor exercising, as it allow you to hear ambient noise. Also, the sweat-resistant design makes it ideal for workouts without fear of damage.
This is the first experience I’ve had with bone-conduction technology. Unlike in-ear type headsets/earbuds that block out surrounding noise, the open ear, bone-conduction design lets you hear ambient sound (cars, pedestrians, dogs and other cyclists, etc.). It’s the noise-blocking aspect of headset use while cycling that ratchets up the potential danger for both the user and fellow cyclists.
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Bone conduction has been around for years, with the first description, in 1923, of a bone-conduction hearing aid. Google Glass uses this technology for the relay of information to the user though a transducer that sits beside the ear.
So, how does it work?
Bone conduction bypasses the eardrums so that your ears remain open and unimpeded. These types of devices are known as “open-ear” headphones. Sound waves are converted into vibrations and delivered (conducted) through your upper cheekbones. The cochlea in your ears receives the vibrations, bypassing the ear canal and ear drum.
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Putting The Headset Through its Paces
Pairing this headset with my iPhone and iPad was extremely fast and easy. AfterShokz provided a sample set while I was at InterBike last year. Waking up at 3 a.m. one morning in Vegas, due to the time difference, it took just minutes to get it all going. The Audrey Says™ voice prompts guided me through power, pair, and play. Right from the first song, I was amazed at the audio quality and the ease of use.
I used the Trekz Titanium in a variety of different environments and circumstances. Some worked better than others. On hikes, walks, runs (indoor and outdoor), rides (indoor and outdoor), and gardening, the headset worked flawlessly. I was able to hear my music clearly but also stay aware of my surroundings.
The only issue you might have is in situations with too much ambient noise. AfterShokz provides earplugs in the box for such situations. On their web site, one user posted about using the headset at a NASCAR race, and another at a baseball game. Both used the earplugs.
I haven’t found any studies that say listening to music at high volume using bone conduction is safer (or less safe) than in-ear devices. I hope the audiology community will provide guidance as bone conduction devices are becoming more popular.
It’s also interesting to note that for people living with hearing loss, enjoying music or hearing in stereo sound can be a challenging, discouraging, or even painful experience. In some cases, bone conduction is a solution for them.
Can You Hear Me Now?
Since the headset is Bluetooth-enabled, it lets you easily use your smart phone for making or receiving calls. It’s a simply one-button process to answer or disconnect from calls. Sound clarity is fairly good and the noise-cancelling microphone allows the person on the other end to hear just fine even when you’re in a noisy environment.
Specs/Technology Behind the Trekz Titanium
- Bone-conduction technology delivers music through the cheekbones, ensuring ears remain completely open to hear ambient sounds
- Titanium wraparound headband is lightweight, comfortable and flexible for durability and portability
- PremiumPitch+™ delivers wide dynamic range and rich bass
- Wireless Bluetooth® 4.1 connectivity and convenient multipoint pairing
- LeakSlayer™ technology significantly reduces natural sound leakage
- IP55 certified to repel sweat, dust and moisture
- Six hours of continuous music and/or calls on a single charge of the lithium ion battery
- Dual noise-canceling microphones exclude surrounding noise, effectively enhancing speech
- Audrey Says™ voice prompts guide users through power, pair, play and talk
- 2-year warranty
Selecting the Right Size and Fit
The Trekz Titanium comes in Mini and Regular sizes. I tested the regular since that was the sample provided. The web site has a measuring template that determines the distance from the back of your left ear, behind your head to the back of your right ear. Be sure to do this step to ensure that you order the correct size.
The headset comes with little black tabs called FitBands (see photo). The FitBands are designed to reduce slippage for those with smaller or narrower heads. It all comes down to your face size and shape, as well as your personal preference, whether to employ the FitBands.
Bottom Line
When selecting a headset for a variety of activities, especially cycling, open ear is the safest way to go. Combined with bone-conduction technology, this headset offers great sound quality and awareness of your surroundings. I really enjoy using the AfterShokz Trekz Titanium headset. Being Bluetooth and wireless, it means no hassling with cords. Also, the dual-purpose ability to use it for both music and phone was an added plus.
February 2017
In some states, the use of headphones or earbuds while riding/driving is not just ill-advised; it is illegal. I believe this used to be the case in Colorado; not sure if such behavior is still outlawed or not. And it was/is illegal for motor vehicle drivers as well as bikers.
These would not work well in California on the road. Illegal to have sound in both ears. One ear only.
If you want to listen to music, stay home. There is no place for riders using earbuds on either the road or the bicycle path. You jeopardize your safety on the road and the safety of your fellow cyclists. If cycling bores you so much that you require music, then maybe you aren’t a cyclist.
You people are dumb shits. These don’t go in or over your ears!!!!