One would think a company named Noise would never make noise-cancelling earphones. But this Indian company has launched what could well be the most affordable noise-cancelling headphones, taking what was once a creamy layer of technology to everyone with a smartphone. For context, the Noise N1 Pro has a price tag of just Rs 1,499.
I have always — at least so far — had this theory that audio quality was invariably a function of money. So, better audio quality was always the domain of the more expensive devices. But over the past few years, we have seen that audio technologies, as well as experiences, have become better at lower price points too. Companies will now need new technologies to find exclusivity of premium price points. From what I have experienced, the Noise N1 Pro is pushing the envelope even further on what to expect at affordable price points.
The Noise N1 Pro has a stylish look with a golden chrome finish for the box. The angled metallic feel of the earphones is unique and reminds you of the tail fins of commercial aircraft. These stems are touch-sensitive and help you switch modes or increase volume with a soft touch.
The Noise N1 Pro stands out with its sleek, metallic design and elegant golden chrome finish, adding a touch of luxury to an affordable package. (Image: Nandagopal Rajan/The Indian Express)
When I popped on the earphones for the first time, I was disappointed that I could hear my BLDC fan whirring away in the living room. But when I long pressed the stem and the advanced noise cancellation was activated with an audio alert. Then, in a jiffy, all the noise was sucked in by the Noise earphones. Ironic, but effective.
After consuming an HBR podcast early this morning, I decided to put the earphones to the test with a proper binaural test recording. The audio range test and the binaural test went off well. The deep bass test, which usually rattles a lot of drivers, was smooth on the Noise N1 Pro with its 11mm drivers standing their ground and showing no visible signs of weakness.
When I switched to a high-resolution lossless file of Ullen: Infinite Bach on Apple Music, I was not expecting much. But the Noise N1 Pro was surprisingly decent. Yes, this is no Sennheiser, but then most users are not expecting anything of that sort… neither do they have the context. And when you listen to a great classical composition and it impresses you, that’s all you are expecting… especially when you have not paid more than you have for your smartphone.
Listening to A R Rrahman’s Bhoomi Bhoomi, I was impressed by how well the earphones could manage a rich composition like this. Yes, there were parts you craved for a bit more clarity and space, but that’s when you are reminded of the price tag of this one. There are times when you feel the Noise N1 Pro struggles a bit with the lows, but it is not a secular problem and emerges only with some types of mixes. And let me tell you most people will not even notice.
Story continues below this ad
The Noise N1 Pro offers good call quality, and most users will not have any complaints. The set has an IPX5 water resistance rating, and you should not worry if you get caught in the drizzle while on a morning walk. The battery lasts up to 60 hours on a full charge.
With a price tag of Rs 1499, we should be proud that an Indian company has been able to democratise noise cancellation, that too in the week of our independence. The Noise N1 Pro truly wireless earphones tick all the boxes especially given the price point. This one is making all the right noises.
© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd
