Arms-on: HomePod 2 exceeds expectations, however there’s one factor you need to know
Earlier this 12 months, Apple launched the HomePod 2. After an unsuccessful first iteration, the corporate guess on a less complicated, cheaper mannequin which might have the ability to entice extra clients: the HomePod mini. Ultimately, it determined to offer the bigger mannequin one other run, as many shoppers needed a speaker extra highly effective than the tiny one the corporate was promoting.
As an proprietor of the first-generation sensible speaker in addition to a pair of the mini fashions, I used to be thrilled when Apple introduced the second model of the larger HomePod. Because it’s unavailable in Brazil, I needed to look ahead to a London journey to get my fingers on a pair of HomePod 2. After a number of days of lastly proudly owning them, listed below are my impressions of those units as a pair and what you need to know earlier than shopping for them.
Two are higher than one
Considered one of my biggest regrets concerning the primary technology of the HomePod was not having the ability to get my fingers on a second speaker. Whereas the sound high quality has all the time been very good, it wasn’t sufficient to make use of as my TV speaker.
After I lastly received the HomePod mini pair, I used to be underwhelmed by the dearth of bass and the profound sound that was a part of the primary mannequin. Though I’d nonetheless suggest somebody to get the HomePod mini for his or her workplace, small bed room, or kitchen, I’d strongly advise you to get the HomePod 2 – and a pair.
Experiencing a pair of HomePod 2 for the primary time
Though the HomePod 2 has a number of {hardware} drawbacks in comparison with the unique mannequin, corresponding to fewer microphones and horn-loaded tweeters, and lack of a customized amplifier, it’s made for Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos for music and video with a concentrate on superior computational audio.
In my checks, I really feel just like the HomePod 2 doesn’t get as loud as the unique mannequin, however I used to be very impressed with utilizing a pair to hearken to my favourite songs. After making an attempt some Beatles, ABBA, Sigrid, and others, I seen that Dolby Atmos tunes actually shine with sensible audio system.
It would sound tacky, however I might hearken to layers of songs I hadn’t heard earlier than. Personally, I believe Hold An Eye on Dan by ABBA is a superb tune to show that. By the top of the track, the music is sung by Björn and Benny whereas Frida and Agneta are within the again vocal. It’s laborious to listen to the lads singing with most AirPods fashions, however with a pair of HomePod 2 is crystal clear who’s singing which half.
It looks like rediscovering a pricey track to me typically. For watching the native information, TV reveals, films, or enjoying Tears of the Kingdom on Nintendo Change, I additionally suppose the pair of HomePod 2 is a superb choice, though I don’t suppose it might probably all the time appropriate the bass.
So in case you are watching a TV present with background music with plenty of basses, you’ll hear a number of “tum, tum, tum,” which could make it difficult to know what the characters are speaking about.
Wrap up
Apart from the sometimes-weird-bass, I’m completely amazed by the HomePod 2. I do know there are numerous sensible audio system on the market, however for integrating with Apple Music, Apple TV 4K, and my normal utilization, I believe I nailed it by buying this pair.
As well as, not like the unique HomePod, this new technology could be restored utilizing the Mac, so if one thing goes flawed, I don’t must throw all of it within the trash.
Every HomePod prices $299, and they’re out there in Midnight (which often seems Black) and White (please, don’t select this coloration, as it’ll get smudged/dirty with time).
