Local Aussie audio maker Friendie has just launched a new headphone, the AIR DUO which are designed for the modern home worker who also enjoys some gaming and working out. The AIR DUO are on over ear design that promise all day comfort for those many Zoom calls that are now part of the norm of working life in 2020.
Co-founder Jane Sahhar says the AIR DUO were designed for those who achieve excellence in every area of life. “Excel in the office, while adding a touch of lux to your look. The detachable microphone makes it easy and comfortable to make video calls. When it’s playtime, your Friendie AIR DUOs are great for a walk, a low intensity workout
or gaming.”
Friendie designed the AIR DUO’s ear cups with a high-density foam that provides good noise isolation without any of the distortion that active noise cancellation introduces to audio. The headphones can also fold for easy storage which is great for commuters.
Behind the plush ear cushions are 40mm drivers which promise Super Bass and the headphones come with two built in EQ modes; Chart music and Bass Boost. A special 30mm vibration mode is meant for gaming and that headbanging hip-hop you love to listen to.
The microphone is detachable which is nice for when you are working out or taking walks. There’s also an in-built microphone for those occassions when you are out and about and need to make phone calls. All your primary controls are on the ear cup allowing you to pause, skip, adjust volume and answer calls.
The AIR DUO connects primarily via Bluetooth so you may be concerned about battery life but Friendie says the AIR DUO will last up to 54 hours of talk time or music playback with an impressive 300 hours of standby time. Sadly, it doesn’t have fast charging, taking up to four hours to fill the battery using the outdated Micro USB standard.
The AIR DUO come in three colorways; Matte black and Rose Gold — which reminds me of old Beats by Dre headphones. There’s also LED lighting on the ear cups which Friendie says are ‘optional but advisable!’
The AIR DUO retail for $350 from friendie.com.au which is a hell of a lot and places it in direct competition from more established names like Sony, Bose and Jabra. You get the headphones, detachable microphone, 3.5mm AUX audio cable and a smart protective case.