The new $149 Beyerdynamic Blue BYRD 2nd generation headphones are a Bluetooth in-ear headset that combines the brand’s proven, high-quality sound with the benefits of versatile flexibility. The Blue BYRD enables smooth transitions between listening to music, phone calls, work, study, or sports – anytime, anywhere.
That’s sounds fine but what makes this pair of Bluetooth IEMs different from the 5 dozen other IEMs in the category?
Multifunctional sound experience and excellent for communication
The new Blue BYRD is suitable for a wide range of purposes and integrates an improved microphone for the best possible voice transmission. Thanks to the latest Qualcomm aptX Adaptive and AAC audio codecs, the headset incorporates the latest generation 5.2 Bluetooth connection and delivers a more refined sounding sonic presentation.
Thanks to Multipoint, it is possible to establish a Bluetooth connection with two devices simultaneously. The microphone can reproduce the user’s own voice signal via the earphones using the sidetone function, thus allowing a natural conversation situation during phone calls. In addition, Qualcomm cVc™ technology (8th generation) reduces disturbing background noise.
This guarantees excellent speech audibility, making the Blue BYRD a perfect communication device and companion for private phone calls and business video meetings in the office or on the go.
One of the biggest issues for a lot of remote workers during the pandemic lockdowns has been the sound quality of their calls at home — Beyerdynamic hopes that the Blue BYRD IEMs improve that experience for users.
The IPX4 rating is sufficient for rain and moisture but I wouldn’t try submerging these in the tub or leaving them accidentally in your pants on laundry day.
Due to the unique flat design, the Beyerdynamic Blue BYRD offers a high level of comfort throughout the day. The special design of the in-ear headphones ensures that they do not protrude from the ear and are hardly noticeable if you decide to take a mid-day snooze but want to continue listening.
The flexible neckband can easily be folded and stored in the practical hard case included. Inside the hard case, users will find the IEMs, silicone ear tips in 5 sizes, an USB cable and quick start guide.
The neckband design also allows for high battery life, lasting up to 14 hours for a long listening experience without interruption. Via USB-C, it is fully charged within 1:40 hours. A quick charge of 10 minutes provides 2 hours of playtime and even while charging, the headphones can still be used.
That’s a bold battery claim and we’re sending a pair to our guy in the Canadian Maritimes to see how true that is.
Best equipped inside as well as outside
In addition to the improved sound and voice quality due to the latest technology, the Blue BYRDoffers more features: Google Fast Pair allows for a very easy pairing. As an Amazon-certified headset, access to Alexa is also possible in addition to Google Assistant and Siri.
The Blue BYRD can also be connected to beyerdynamic’s innovative MIY app. The “MOSAYC –Attention to Detail with Mimi Sound Personalization” elevates the sound of the Blue BYRD tothe next level.
After a listening test of just two minutes, the sound and settings of the headphones can be personalized with the app and completely adapted to the individual hearing. In addition, the headphones can always be kept up to date with the latest technology using the app.
The listening test function is becoming standard with a number of brands and it’s an innovative tool that can work well if the software is up to snuff. Beyerdynamic has been one of the premier pro and consumer headphone manufacturers for many decades and it will be interesting to see how it compares to other IEMs utilizing the same technology.
Price & Availability
The Blue BYRD (2nd generation) will be available internationally from October 28, 2021 at a recommended retail price of $149 / €129 in the online store.
Specifications: Blue Byrd (2nd Generation)
- Transducer: Dynamic Acoustic
- Frequency response: 10 Hz – 25000 Hz
- Form factor: In-Ear Transmission
- Bluetooth version: 5.2
- Audio codecs: Qualcomm® aptX™ Adaptive Qualcomm® aptX™ AAC SBC
- Range: 10 meters
- Battery runtime: Up to 14:00 hours
- Charging time: 1:40 hours
- Charging port type: USB-C
- Weight: 32 grams
