Technics EAH-AZ100-N
Etymotic Research ER3SE
What Buyers Say
Technics EAH-AZ100-N
The Technics EAH-AZ100 earbuds receive overwhelmingly positive feedback for their exceptional sound quality, particularly with LDAC and Dolby Atmos. Users highlight the surprisingly effective AI-powered call noise cancellation, which blocks out background noise like screaming children or car washes. Comfort and customization via the app are also praised, though some note the ANC is slightly weaker than the previous AZ80 model.
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality with LDAC
- AI-powered call noise cancellation
- Comfortable fit for hours
- Customizable EQ via app
- Effective ANC and pass-through modes
Cons
- High price point ($300)
- ANC slightly weaker than AZ80
- Touch controls take getting used to
Etymotic Research ER3SE
The Etymotic ER3 SE is widely praised for its neutral, uncolored sound and exceptional passive noise isolation, often described as god-tier for the price. Users highlight the need for proper deep insertion and aftermarket ear tips to achieve comfort and optimal sound, while the cable microphonics are a common frustration. The XR variant receives mixed feedback, with some finding it muddier than the SE. Overall, these IEMs are a top choice for audiophiles seeking clarity and isolation without active noise cancellation.
Pros
- Neutral, uncolored sound
- Exceptional passive noise isolation
- Great value for money
- Replaceable cable
- Comfortable with proper tips
Cons
- Pronounced cable microphonics
- Uncomfortable stock ear tips
- Requires deep insertion
- No inline mic or controls
- Not suitable for side sleeping
Scores
Specifications
| Technics EAH-AZ100-N | Etymotic Research ER3SE | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | in-ear | in-ear |
| Wearing Style | true wireless | in-ear |
| Ear Tips | Extra large, Large, Medium, Small | Assorted |
| Weight | 0.05 kg★ | — |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | dynamic | balanced armature |
| Driver Size | 10 mm★ | — |
| Drivers | 1 | 1 |
| Freq Min | 20 Hz | 20 Hz |
| Freq Max | 40 kHz★ | 16 kHz |
| Impedance | — | 22 Ω |
| Hi-Res Audio | ✓★ | — |
| Codecs | AAC, LC3, LDAC, SBC | Etymotic ER3SE Studio Edition Earphone,Black |
| Surround | Dolby Atmos | — |
| Noise Control | ||
| ANC | ✓★ | ✗ |
| ANC Type | adaptive | — |
| Transparency | ✓★ | — |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless | ✓★ | — |
| Bluetooth | 5.3★ | — |
| Profiles | AVRCP, A2DP, HSP, HFP, TMAP, PBP | — |
| Multipoint | ✓★ | — |
| Wired Connector | Bluetooth | — |
| Range | 10 m★ | — |
| Earbud Battery | ||
| Battery Life | 8 hrs★ | — |
| Charge Time | 2.5 hrs★ | — |
| Fast Charging | 15 min. for 90 min. playback | — |
| Charging | USB-C★ | — |
| Case Battery | ||
| Case Battery | 28 hrs★ | — |
| Case Charging | USB-C★ | — |
| Wireless Charging | ✓★ | — |
| Microphone | ||
| Microphone | ✓★ | — |
| Mic Count | 6★ | — |
| NC Mic | ✓★ | — |
| Features | ||
| Voice Assistant | Google Assistant, Siri | — |
| Touch Controls | ✓★ | — |
| App | Android & iOS | — |
| Volume Limiting | ✗ | — |
| Gaming Mode | ✗ | — |
| Bone Conduction | ✗ | ✗ |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | — |
Pros & Cons
Technics EAH-AZ100-N
- Strong connectivity (100th percentile)100th %ile
- Strong sound (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong mic (97th percentile)97th %ile
- Strong anc (97th percentile)97th %ile
Etymotic Research ER3SE
- Strong user sentiment (92nd percentile)92nd %ile
- Strong social proof (66th percentile)
- Below average mic (12th percentile)12th %ile
- Below average connectivity (13th percentile)13th %ile
- Below average sound (29th percentile)
- Below average comfort (30th percentile)
Pricing
Technics EAH-AZ100-N offers 2.0x better value for money
Verdict
Scores 100 overall, wins 7 of 7 usage categories and 20 of 39 specs.
