Less than three months ago, we learned that Creative was working on a pair of True Wireless Earbuds (TWS) with solid-state, all-silicon MEMS-based drivers. Those earbuds have arrived in two nearly identical models called the Creative Aurvana Ace and Creative Aurvana Ace 2, which also support LE Audio, aptX Lossless and more.
Are these the same wireless earphones with only minor differences?
Let’s start with what’s the same.
Both models are the same size, have the same battery life (6 hours per earbud) and blend the power of xMEMS technology with custom-tuned 10mm dynamic drivers.
xMEMS Driver
The xMEMS drivers, expertly integrated into each earbud, showcase an innovative design with tiny piezo-electric flaps meticulously mounted to silicon chips. What makes this technology stand out is how it replicates sound when these flaps swiftly respond to short electrical signals.
In doing so, these drivers are able to generate sound waves that closely mimic the way users naturally hear sounds in the world around them. This results in an audio experience that is not only pristine but also remarkably lifelike, akin to having the performers right beside the users. Furthermore, frequency response is said to beyond human levels of hearing at 5Hz to 40KHz.
Both models support Bluetooth 5.3 and wide variety of audio codecs, including LE Audio featuring the LC3 Codec for superior wireless audio quality, SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX Adaptive.
Tip: LE Audio is the next generation of Bluetooth Audio adopted by the Bluetooth SIG that operates on the Bluetooth Low Energy radio. LC3 (Low Complexity Communications Codec) is a high-quality, low-power audio codec that provides higher quality audio at lower bitrates compared to classic Bluetooth Audio (SBC). Bluetooth version 5.2 or higher can support LE Audio.
Ace vs. Ace 2
The differences, however, do put some daylight between the two models in a few key areas.
Visually both earphones look nearly identical. However, the interior of the charging case is smoked translucent black / copper on Aurvana Ace 2 and matte black on the Ace.
They both support aptX Adaptive, but only the Ace 2 supports aptX Lossless.
Keep in mind that advanced codec support requires source device compatibility as well. So just because earbuds have a feature, doesn’t mean it will be usable unless a source device supports it.
As an example, the iPhone 15 supports Bluetooth 5.3, but it won’t support any aptX version or LE Audio. Nevertheless, Bluetooth will still work, albeit at lower quality bit rates.
Noise Cancellation
Beyond the audio capabilities, the Creative Aurvana Ace and Creative Aurvana Ace 2 offer Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation and Ambient Mode. This allows users to fully immerse themselves in their audio or stay aware of their surroundings, adapting to any environment.
The Aurvana Ace 2 offers a higher level of noise cancelling performance. It features Qualcomm Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which intelligently works via specific environmental conditions and earbud fit. This innovative capability ensures a balance between noise isolation and situational awareness, making them perfect for diverse listening environments.
These earbuds also come equipped with six built-in microphones powered by Qualcomm cVc (Clear Voice Capture) noise cancellation technology, ensuring crystal-clear calls even in noisy environments.
With up to 24 hours of total playtime (after being recharged 3 times), they are perfect for long commutes, workdays, or extended listening sessions. Furthermore, being IPX5 certified, these latest earbuds are sweatproof and ideal for users with active lifestyles.
Comparison
| Aurvana Ace 2 | Aurvana Ace | |
| MSRP | $149.99 | $129.99 |
| Product Color | Translucent black / Copper | Matte Black |
| Headphone Drivers | xMEMS with 10 mm Dynamic Drivers (per earbud) | xMEMS with 10 mm Dynamic Drivers (per earbud) |
| Frequency Response | 5-40,000 Hz | 5-40,000 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 110dB SPL @1KHz | 110dB SPL @1KHz |
| Impedance | 16 Ohms | 16 Ohms |
| Microphone Type | Omni-directional MEMS x 3 (per earbud) | Omni-directional MEMS x 3 (per earbud) |
| Sensitivity | -38dBV/Pa | -38dBV/Pa |
| Noise Cancellation | Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation | Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation |
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Supported Bluetooth Profiles | A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) AVRCP (Audio / Video Remote Control Profile) HFP (Hands-Free Profile) HSP (Handset Profile) TMAP (Telephony and Media Audio Profile) | A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) AVRCP (Audio / Video Remote Control Profile) HFP (Hands-Free Profile) HSP (Handset Profile) TMAP (Telephony and Media Audio Profile) |
| Supported Audio Codecs | SBC, AAC, Aptx, Aptx Adaptive, Aptx Lossless, LC3 Audio | SBC, AAC, Aptx, Aptx Adaptive, LC3 Audio |
| Maximum RF Output | 10 dBm | 10 dBm |
| Wireless Operating Range | Up to 10m / 33 ft unobstructed line-of-sight. Walls and structures may affect range of device | Up to 10m / 33 ft unobstructed line-of-sight. Walls and structures may affect range of device |
| Voice Assistant Support | Siri and Google Assistants | Siri and Google Assistants |
| Battery Type | 1 x Rechargeable lithium-ion polymer battery | 1 x Rechargeable lithium-ion polymer battery |
| Total Playtime | Up to 6 hours on a single charge (Earbuds) Up to 18 hours of additional playtime (Case) Up to 24 hours of total playtime | Up to 6 hours on a single charge (Earbuds) Up to 18 hours of additional playtime (Case) Up to 24 hours of total playtime |
| Charging Interface | USB-C, Qi-compatible wireless charging | USB-C, Qi-compatible wireless charging |
| Charging Time | <2 hours | <2 hours |
| Ingress Protection Rating: | IPX5 Water Resistant | IPX5 Water Resistant |
| Operating Temperature | 0-45°C | 0-45°C |
| Earbud per side (LxWxH) | 34.0 x 23.3 x 25.8 mm 1.33 x 0.92 x 1.02 inches | 34.0 x 23.3 x 25.8 mm 1.33 x 0.92 x 1.02 inches |
| Charging Case (LxWxH) | 64.7 x 49.1 x 26.9 mm 2.5549 x 1.93 x 1.06 inches | 64.7 x 49.1 x 26.9 mm 2.5549 x 1.93 x 1.06 inches |
| Earbud weight | 4.7g (0.17 oz) | 4.7g (0.17 oz) |
| Charging Case weight | 37.2g (1.31 oz) | 37.2g (1.31 oz) |
| Cable length | 60cm/ 1.96ft | 60cm/ 1.96ft |
| Cable weight | 14g / 0.49oz | 14g / 0.49oz |
“xMEMS drivers represent an exciting leap forward in audio technology,” said Song Siow Hui, CEO at Creative. “They enable the Creative Aurvana Ace and Ace 2 to reproduce sound with stunning accuracy and fidelity. Users can expect a level of immersion and clarity that redefines their perception of premium audio.”
Pricing and Availability
Pre-order will be available from November 10, 2023 at us.creative.com/aurvanatws for the following prices:
- Creative Aurvana Ace – $129.99
- Creative Aurvana Ace 2 – $149.99
Both models are expected to start shipping in December. Also see them at CanJam Dallas from November 11th to 12th to get a firsthand look.
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