PULSE Explore Wireless Earbuds
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AI Verdict
These in-ear earbuds with planar magnetic drivers deliver detailed, low-distortion audio for PlayStation 5 and Portal, but compromise on features and portability.
These earbuds are a strong fit for dedicated PlayStation gamers who prioritize detailed, low-latency audio via the PlayStation Link adapter. However, their bulky design, lack of true Active Noise Cancellation, and limited Bluetooth controls make them a weak fit for general-purpose use outside the PlayStation ecosystem.
If you need robust Active Noise Cancellation and more comprehensive controls for everyday use, look for earbuds that explicitly list ANC and a companion app with customizable controls.
Regret Score™
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Pros
- Planar magnetic drivers reproduce soundscapes with ultra-low distortion, delivering rich details and clear deep bass for gaming.
- PlayStation Link USB adapter provides zero-latency wireless audio for PS5 and PlayStation Portal.
- Multi-device connectivity allows simultaneous audio from a PlayStation console and a Bluetooth device like a phone.
- AI-enhanced noise cancellation for the microphone effectively isolates your voice from background noise during party chat.
- Volume controls are available directly on the earbuds when connected via PlayStation Link.
Cons
- Lacks Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), relying only on passive noise isolation which is minimal without a perfect seal.
- The earbuds are large and thick, with an odd weight distribution that can cause pressure and discomfort in the ear canal for some users.
- The charging case is bulky and not pocket-friendly, making it less convenient for portable use compared to other earbuds.
- Volume controls and other media playback functions do not work over a Bluetooth connection with phones.
- Some users report connection issues and random disconnections, particularly when used heavily with PS5.
Dimension Scores
The planar magnetic drivers deliver exceptional detail, clarity, and deep bass, especially for gaming audio, with ultra-low distortion.
These earbuds lack Active Noise Cancellation, relying solely on passive isolation which is often described as minimal and ineffective without a perfect ear tip seal.
The earbuds are large and thick with an odd weight distribution, leading to potential discomfort and pressure in the ear canal for many users, and the stock tips are often inadequate.
With approximately 5-6 hours of listening time per charge, the battery life is considered average and not particularly long for the category.
Best For
- PlayStation 5 and PlayStation Portal users prioritizing low-latency, detailed gaming audio.
- Gamers who want to hear subtle audio cues and environmental details in 3D Audio supported PS5 games.
- Users who need to mix game audio from their console with chat or music from a Bluetooth-connected phone.
Not Recommended For
- Individuals seeking earbuds with robust Active Noise Cancellation for noisy environments or travel.
- Users needing compact, lightweight earbuds and a pocketable case for everyday general-purpose use.
- Anyone looking for earbuds primarily for music listening, as the sound profile is tuned for gaming and can be unbalanced for music.
Watch Out For
- The earbuds are prone to wind noise when walking outdoors, making them less suitable for mobile use.
- Many users find the included earbud tips inadequate, requiring aftermarket foam tips to achieve a proper seal and optimal sound quality.
- The lack of an in-app equalizer means EQ adjustments are only possible via the PS5's system settings, limiting customization for other devices.
- Volume controls on the earbuds only function when connected via the PlayStation Link dongle, not over standard Bluetooth.
- The large size and weight distribution can lead to ear fatigue or an uncomfortable fit for users with smaller ears.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 711719568315 |
| ASIN | B0CMDFSB89 |
| Brand | PlayStation |
| Color | White |
| Style | Wireless Earbuds |
| Language | English |
| Material | Plastic, Silicone |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included) |
| Model Name | PULSE Explore |
| Form Factor | In Ear |
| Item Weight | 9.3 ounces |
| Control Type | Volume Control |
| Manufacturer | Sony |
| Cable Feature | Without Cable |
| Ear Placement | In Ear |
| Noise Control | Active Noise Cancellation |
| Control Method | Touch |
| Earpiece Shape | Bud |
| Headphones Jack | Lightning |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Special Feature | Wireless Charging |
| Audio Driver Type | Planar Magnetic Driver |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.0 |
| Item model number | CFI-ZWA2 |
| Compatible Devices | Mobile,Laptops,Tablets |
| Hardware Interface | Bluetooth 5 |
| Product Dimensions | 4.8 x 4.2 x 3 inches |
| Included Components | Ear Cushions |
| Input Device Interface | USB, Bluetooth |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Connectivity Technology | Wireless |
| Specific Uses For Product | Gaming |
| Supports Bluetooth Technology | Yes |
| Wireless Communication Technology | Bluetooth |
What Buyers Say
The biggest takeaway is that these earbuds truly shine for PlayStation gaming, with users consistently praising the detailed audio from the planar magnetic drivers and the seamless, low-latency connection via the PlayStation Link dongle. However, outside of that specific use case, they fall short on features common in similarly priced earbuds, like Active Noise Cancellation and full Bluetooth controls. Many users find the physical design bulky and the stock ear tips inadequate, often needing to buy third-party tips to get a proper seal and comfortable fit.
“Honestly, these sound amazing for my PS5, like I'm hearing stuff in games I never noticed before, but trying to use them with my phone is a pain and they feel huge in my ears.”
Common Praise
- Exceptional detail, clarity, and separation in game audio, even at lower volumes, due to planar magnetic drivers.
- Zero latency connection when used with the PlayStation Link USB adapter on PS5 or Portal.
- Ability to connect to both a PlayStation console and a Bluetooth device simultaneously for mixed audio.
- Microphone provides clear voice capture with effective AI-enhanced noise rejection.
- The sound profile, especially with EQ adjustments on PS5, can provide a 'cinematic' and 'warm' experience for single-player games.
Common Complaints
- Lack of Active Noise Cancellation, leading to poor isolation from ambient noise.
- Bulky earbud design and large charging case make them less portable and can cause discomfort.
- Volume controls and media playback buttons do not function when connected to devices via Bluetooth.
- Prone to wind noise when used outdoors, impacting audio quality for mobile use.
- Some users experience random disconnections, particularly when using them with the PS5.
- The included earbud tips are often criticized for poor fit and sound seal, necessitating third-party replacements.
Ownership Tips
- You'll probably need to experiment with different ear tips, possibly buying aftermarket foam ones, to get a comfortable fit and the best sound seal.
- Adjusting the built-in EQ on your PS5 is crucial to get the sound profile you want, especially for bass, as they can sound flat out of the box.
- Be prepared for the charging case to take up a lot of space; it's not designed for slim pockets.
- If you game on PS5 and also use a PlayStation Portal, the seamless switching between them is a major convenience.
- Don't expect these to replace your dedicated music earbuds; their sound signature is heavily optimized for gaming, and music can sound unbalanced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the PULSE Explore Wireless Earbuds have Active Noise Cancellation?
No, despite some product descriptions, multiple user reports indicate these earbuds do not feature Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). They rely on passive noise isolation, which requires a good ear tip seal to be effective.
How is the microphone quality for voice chat?
The microphone offers clear voice capture with AI-enhanced noise cancellation, effectively reducing background noise. However, some users note that the voice can sound a bit hollow or lack warmth.
Can I use these earbuds with my phone or PC?
Yes, you can connect them to your phone or PC via Bluetooth. For PC, you can also use the included PlayStation Link USB adapter for a low-latency connection, similar to the PS5.
Do the volume controls work when connected to a phone via Bluetooth?
No, the volume controls on the earbuds only function when connected to a PlayStation console or PC using the PlayStation Link USB adapter. When connected via Bluetooth to a phone, you'll need to adjust volume on your device.
What is the battery life like?
The battery life is generally reported to be around 5-6 hours per charge, which is considered average and not exceptional by users. The charging case provides additional charges.
Are these earbuds comfortable for long gaming sessions?
Comfort is mixed; while some find them okay, many users report that the large size and weight distribution can cause discomfort or pressure, especially for smaller ears. Finding the right ear tips is crucial for comfort and sound quality.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at gaming earbuds, it's not just about sound; it's about how that sound gets to you and how it feels. You need to think about latency – how quickly the sound reaches your ears from the game – because even tiny delays can mess up your timing in fast-paced games. Also, consider the driver type, as it heavily influences the audio detail and immersion. Finally, comfort is key for long sessions; bulky earbuds can become a real pain.
Planar Magnetic Driver
Unlike typical dynamic drivers, planar magnetic drivers use a thin, flat diaphragm for sound production. This results in incredibly accurate, detailed, and low-distortion audio, letting you hear subtle in-game sounds and positional cues with more precision, like hearing footsteps clearly in a 3D audio environment.
PlayStation Link USB adapter
This isn't just another USB dongle; it's Sony's proprietary wireless technology for ultra-low latency audio. It's like a dedicated, super-fast highway for sound between your PlayStation console and the earbuds, ensuring what you hear is perfectly in sync with what you see, which is critical for competitive gaming.
Multi-Device Connectivity
This feature lets the earbuds connect to two devices at once – for example, your PS5 via the Link adapter and your phone via Bluetooth. This means you can hear your game audio while simultaneously taking a call or listening to music from your phone, without having to switch earbuds or connections.
Alternatives
If these don't fit, search for gaming earbuds with dedicated 2.4GHz low-latency dongles for consoles, or look for models with robust Active Noise Cancellation and a comprehensive companion app for more versatile everyday use.
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