Parrot has recently introduced the refreshed lineup of its high end wireless Zik headphones. The new Zik 2.0 headsets are described as the “the world’s most advanced headphones” by Parrot and come with a host of new upgrades over the previous gen model.
Head below for more details, availability and pricing:
Created in conjunction with well known designer Philippe Starck, the Zik 2.0 wireless Bluetooth headphones feature a similar design aesthetic as the originals, but come with a few key upgrades that specifically address customer concerns. The new headphones swap out the iron for aluminum resulting in a much lighter (17%) and wearable headset, according to the company and early reports. We are also getting a faux-leather finish on the ear cups and headband this time around.
Like its predecessor, the 2.0 model features button-less, smart touch controls directly on the outside of the right ear cup. There is volume, play/stop and next track functionality for music as well as full call control. You’ll also find on-board microphones for hands-free calling over Bluetooth 3.0 that supports HD Voice. Note: “HD voice needs to be supported by your smartphone and the phone operator.” Also in the right earpiece is a sensor that will detect that you have taken the headphones off your ears, and then pause audio playback automatically.
You’ll get between 6 and 18 hours of battery life depending on the features being used (also has an included cable for wired connections) and a customizable level of noise canceling with the included app:
The headphones are designed for iPhone, iPad, iPod and other smartphones. They come with a companion smartphone app for iOS and Android that features a number of audio control options. The free app allows users to create custom made EQ and frequency profiles in order to “enhance” the audio on certain songs independently. Those profiles can then be saved and applied to other tracks that are similar. Along with a concert hall emulation reverb effect that is fully user tweak-able, the Zik app can suggest profile presets for users that don’t want to tinker around with audio parameters. Users can also manually adjust the amount of noise canceling at any time with a simple swipe on the app.
For those familiar with the previous model, your likely expecting to hear the 2.0’s will ship with a suggested retail price of $399. They are scheduled to be made available in a wide variety of colors (black, white, yellow, brown, blue, orange) via Apple and Brookstone come November.
The last gen models have held market value (rarely going on sale) and still go for $379+ on Amazon, where they have received a 3.9/5 star rating from hundreds of reviewers (still $399.95 at Apple). While the price tag is certainly up there for many, with Parrot’s attention to detail its likely the new model will receive a similar response once they are released.
More from Parrot:
Where technology meets design
For Parrot Zik 2.0, engineers have collaborated with the French designer Philippe Starck to provide the best audio and innovation in these comfortable and trendy new headphones.
Zik 2.0 are 17% lighter than there predecessor, their headband provides more comfort and they offer more space for your ear thanks to the new ear cushions.Bluetooth for wireless music and telephony
Compatible with smartphones, tablets and computers, Parrot Zik 2.0 supports most audio codecs and especially AAC.
They are made for iPhone, iPod, iPad.
Built-in NFC technology enables them to automaticaly connect via Bluetooth with NFC smartphones.Extended listening time
You can choose between three options to extend your listening pleasure:
– Flight mode: ANC activated and line-in, ideal for long flights; will enable you to reach up to 18 hours.
– Eco mode: ANC activated + line-in + Parrot Concert Hall effect; will enable you to reach up to 7 hours.
– Regular mode: ANC activated + Bluetooth + Parrot Concert Hall effect; will enable you to reach up to 6 hours.Specs:
App
Free app compatible with smartphones and tablets running on iOS, Android
Connectivity
Bluetooth 3.0
Supported profiles: AD2P, AVRCP, HFP, HSP, OPP and PBAP
Built-in NFC technology
Audio performances
40 mm neodymium driver
Digital Analog Converter integrated 192kH – 24 bits
32 bits DSP
Frequency response: 20Hz-22kHz
Battery
Battery Lithium Ion 830 mAh removable
Lasts up to 18 hours in Flight mode and full recharge in 150 minutes (2h30)
Low power mode: up to 8 days
Passive mode: Listen to music even when the battery last with the line-in cable
Equalizer
The Parametric EQ is a 5 bands equalizer
Weight
270g – 9.5oz
Dimensions
Width: 175 mm – 6.89”
Height: 202 mm – 7.79”
Tickness: 39.3mm – 3.15”
USB/Micro USB cable: 1 m – 40”
Mini-jack cable: 1,30 m – 4’3”
Kit contents
1 Zik 2.0, 1 battery Li-Ion 830 mAh, 1 Line in cable, 1 Micro USB cable, 1 Carrying pouch, 1 Quick start guide
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