Wireless earbuds have become one of the biggest segments in consumer A/V with millions of consumers taking the plunge in recent years; the wireless category is projected to grow to almost $27 billion over the next 7 years. Cleer Audio is a rapidly growing brand with some rather unique products that we have reviewed rather favorably over the past few years. The new Cleer Audio ARC II have been announced at CES 2023 and the wireless earbuds look to build on the success of the original ARC that we reviewed in 2022.
The second generation ARC II offers an additional hour of battery life, and support for Bluetooth 5.3 and the latest aptX codecs. The egonomic design is improved with flexibility in the ear hook and openness provides more room, better fit and improved comfort. The carrying case also now includes a battery and magnetic closure, and is thinner and smaller making it easier to carry in your pocket.
ARC II’s flexible hinge design ensures a passive listening experience with maximum comfort. These open-ear earbuds do not cover the ear canal, instead they channel audio directly into your ears.
This unique no-pinch, comfortable design allows you to maintain spatial awareness and still enjoy your audio. Meaning you can stay safe while keeping aware of your surroundings while listening to your favorite podcast or music.
We can’t stress enough how important situational awareness has become while wearing wireless headphones with ANC technology. If you can’t hear traffic, or other pedestrians — you’re putting yourself at risk. Cleer Audio and other brands that have improved your level of awareness while outdoors are creating a safer listening experience and we think it should become mandatory in all headphone technology.
The open ear design provides a safe way to experience music outdoors. It is suitable for all day wear and use with its lightweight design, comfort fit and feel, and up to 35 hours of on-the-go playback, 8 hours of playback per charge and 27-hours of additional charge in the charging case.
Add, simple touch gestures provide control over track selection, volume, calls, and accessing your voice assistant. Multipoint connectivity allows you to seamlessly switch audio input from two simultaneously connected devices. ARC II is IPX4 certified water and sweat resistance.
ARC II’s dynamic sound quality is fueled by its custom tuned 16.2 mm graphene neodymium drivers that beam toward your ears, and Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC and the latest AptX codecs for secure connectivity. The free Cleer+ App adds customizable performance by adjusting the EQ and customizing music playback, and firmware updates.
Features:
- Open-ear earbuds with flexible hinge design ensure a passive listening experience with maximum comfort.
- Custom tuned 16.2mm graphene driver.
- Up to 35-hrs of on-the-go playback, 8-hrs of playback per charge and 27-hrs of additional charge in the charging case.
- IPX4 certified water and sweat resistance.
- Multipoint connectivity allows you to seamlessly switch audio input from two simultaneously connected devices.
- Simple touch gestures provide control over track selection, volume, calls, and accessing your voice assistant.
- Customizable performance, firmware updates, and more with the free Cleer+ App.
Price & Availability
Cleer ARC II includes a charging-pad integrated carrying case in a graphite or warm gray finish. U.S. MSRP for ARC II is $149.99 and will be available in the 1st quarter of 2023.
See more CES 2023 coverage here →
