Like you I tried the new XM5s and while I liked the sound improvements over the XM4s I was really underwhelmed with the fit and finish. I used the XM4s for quite awhile and loved them but knew right away the tiny, generic and un-ergonomic shape of the XM5s was not going to work for me.
I had purchased a set of the Technics AZ60s a year ago and liked them but they have an uncomfortable edge near the nozzle that made them less comfortable and I preferred the sound of the XM4s. Well I recently updated the firmware on the AZ60s and was actually impressed with the sound! This led me to reading up on the newer AZ80s which have a totally redesigned shell. I pulled the trigger and they arrived today. Here are a few quick observations:
- The fit and comfort is PHENOMENAL- these are the most ergonomic TWS ear buds I have tried. They went for more of an IEM shape than most other consumer-grade ear buds.
- The standard tuning is definitely a step up from the AZ60s (AZ60s were so over-bloated with bass).
- The mid-bass is a tad more prominent than the sub-bass but man these can really rumble.
- The buds and case but have a far superior fit and finish than the XM5s
- I love the IEM-like shape as they are so easy to grab with your fingers and position into your ears
- The stock tuning is still too bass heavy and the highs are a tad muted- this is very fixable with the EQ in the app though
- LDAC pairing and quality is reliable and sounds great out of my Pixel 6
- The app is very busy but I love all the settings and customization options- this app is for Android lovers not iOS lol
- ANC is not super important to me (other than my rare train rides into my office) but initial testing around the house it seems VERY good- I will test this more in noisier settings
Here are the EQ settings I am using for now. While the stock bass setting isn't as bloated at the AZ60 it is just way too much for as discerning listeners. Even with the bass dropped all the way down it is still elevated but combined with a little increase in the upper mids and highs this really balances and opens up the sound. It is impressively dynamic for a consumer TWS ear bud. I still need to get more acquainted with these but I am just blown away at all the boxes these check for comfort, style, fit & finish and most importantly sound (even from a audiophile perspective). I hope this is a successful product for Technics so they continue to develop this product category.