Final ZE8000 MK2 released - Japanese audio specialist Final has launched an upgraded version of its flagship ZE8000 true wireless earbuds – the ZE8000 MK2. This release comes hot on the heels of the original ZE8000's debut earlier this year. The Final ZE8000 MK2 aims to build upon the strengths of its predecessor while addressing some of the earlier criticisms.
One notable improvement in the ZE8000 MK2 is the introduction of new 'Shield Fin' ear tips designed to maximize comfort and enhance passive sound isolation. The innovative 'Shield Fin' technology claims to secure the earbuds more snugly in the ears, resulting in a 32% improvement in sound isolation when the active noise-cancelling (ANC) feature is engaged. This is expected to contribute to an overall clearer sound experience by minimizing external noise interference.
A significant update to the '8K Sound' feature, present in the original ZE8000, promises a more detailed and nuanced audio output. Final has incorporated both hardware and software interventions to improve the signal-to-noise ratio, offering a clearer representation of '8K Sound' with enhanced detail retrieval and faithful reproduction of musical instruments.
Responding to user feedback, Final has added the ability to deactivate the ANC function on the ZE8000 MK2, providing users with an unfiltered experience of the '8K Sound.' The company claims that the ANC deactivation was implemented based on consumer preferences, although the impact on audio quality remains to be objectively assessed.
Moreover, the maximum volume of the Final ZE8000 MK2 has been increased by 5dB, and finer volume adjustments are now possible through the Final Connect app. The app also offers users the flexibility to switch between four noise cancellation modes and ambient sound intake modes, providing a customizable audio experience.
Intending to deliver high-quality audio, Final has refined the digital signal processing techniques in the ZE8000 MK2, ensuring a higher definition and lower distortion in the '8K Sound' mode. The physical design has been revamped with newly designed 'Shield Fin' ear tips, available in five different sizes, catering to various ear shapes and sizes for an optimal fit.
The Final ZE8000 MK2 is equipped with Qualcomm's Snapdragon Sound platform, aptX, and aptX Adaptive codec support, promising 'hi-res' audio with low latency over Bluetooth. The earbuds boast a battery life of five hours on a single charge, with an additional 15 hours from the charging case.
The Final ZE8000 MK2 is currently available for purchase, with a price tag of $399.99 / £289 / €329.99.
