Mac|Life

Fauna audio glasses

Audio kit for both your ears and your eyes…

-

$299 From wearfauna.com Features 2–way sound system, two mics, 250Hz–20kHz, Bluetooth 5.0, IP52 dust/water resistance

We’ve seen “open audio” gadgets before and felt the addition of speakers has either ruined the look of a pair of perfectly good glasses or, more importantl­y, not impressed in terms of audio ability. The Fauna audio glasses both look and sound great.

Fauna do clear glasses and sunglasses, and the Fabula Crystal Brown sunglasses we reviewed are light and fashionabl­e. We were expecting a weight penalty thanks to the temples’ audio control bars but at 1.8 ounces, they’re like most designer shades. The case is chunky but it’s also light (6.9 ounces) considerin­g it acts as the charging station.

The case has a QR code in the lid, taking you to the Fauna website for set–up instructio­ns and support. The glasses last around four hours per charge and the case can boost them back up several times. You connect the glasses via Bluetooth, then let

the audio magic commence. The controls are easy to remember and work perfectly.

The audio is surprising­ly good. Each arm comprises a MEMS electrodyn­amic speaker and woofer. We love the freedom the glasses provide — you don’t have to worry about fiddly wires/losing tiny earbuds/wearing oversized inconspicu­ous cans… The glasses lack bass oomph, but they can go pretty loud, and the audio is clear with precise directiona­l audio and impressive stereo separation.

We’d have liked the audio to stop when the glasses are removed. There’s no ‘off’ button. But these are minor niggles. The price is pretty fair too. It’s also good that the lenses can be changed for prescripti­on ones at any opticians.

THE BOTTOM LINE. Look good and sound good with these great–sounding audio glasses. JO MEMBERY

 ??  ?? The speakers and touchpad controls on the arms are inconspicu­ous.
The speakers and touchpad controls on the arms are inconspicu­ous.
 ??  ?? The case is a fraction on the bulky side but it also acts as the charging station for the glasses.
The case is a fraction on the bulky side but it also acts as the charging station for the glasses.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Australia