I’ve reviewed countless pairs of wireless earbuds here at TechRadar, but it doesn’t take an expert’s eye to know that the market is incredibly convoluted. Even if you want a pair equipped with active noise cancellation, tons of smart features, and impressive sonic capabilities, you’ve got a lot of options to choose from.
But just over a year ago, I managed to get my hands on a pair of wireless earbuds that truly stood out – even among the best earbuds around. And still, this pair remains my go-to whenever I’m out and about, or if it’s too hot for wearing my over-ear Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones.
The model in question is the LG Tone Free T90S – earbuds you might never have heard of before. But believe me, they’re worth getting to know. With a truly unique feature-set, highly customizable audio output, and stylish looks, they’re a nailed down member of my audio gear rotation. Here’s why.
Features that stand out from the crowd
The LG Tone Free T90S boast an unorthodox, fleshed-out feature-set that’s kept me coming back time after time.
One of my favorite inclusions is Plug & Wireless – an option that enables you to connect the T90S charging case to a device, and hear its audio via the wireless earbuds. So, if you’re using an airplane entertainment system, or making use of a device that doesn’t support Bluetooth, you can access seamless wireless connectivity. How cool is that?!
Another thing that I’m a big fan of is the T90S’s use of LG’s UVnano technology. This basically sanitizes the buds while they’re charging using UV lights, and LG states that this reduces bacteria by up to 99.9%. That’s something you won’t find on a lot of rival models, even flashy new buds like the Apple AirPods Pro 3 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Gen 2.
There’s more unusual goodness to sink your teeth into, though. For instance, Whispering Mode is on-board for calls. If you speak quietly, using the right earbud as a microphone, the T90S will ensure your voice remains clear to anyone on the other end of the line. That’s pretty handy if you’re in a busy space and want to keep the volume down, or if you want to communicate something private in public.
Of course, you get all the usual good stuff too. The T90S deliver solid ANC, with ambient sound modes available. They’ve also got wear detection, customizable touch controls, multi-point connectivity, and IPX4 waterproofing, meaning they’re safe from light rain, say.
Dolby Atmos in action
Perhaps the most exciting thing about the LG Tone Free T90S – and something I’m yet to mention – is their Dolby Atmos and Dolby Head Tracking support.
Whenever I watch Atmos-enabled movies using my T90S, I’m impressed by how effective the effects are. Elements such as footsteps and dialogue always sound well-positioned, ensuring more accurate, immersive viewing.
Head Tracking – tech that adjusts sound orientation depending on head movement – is also highly responsive. It’s so satisfying to tilt my head around and hear sounds dynamically shift depending on my position. Of course, I’d recommend having Head Tracking off if you’re walking around, or if you’re just listening to music. But for those who want it for movies, it’s a very welcome feature.
Even if you’re just listening to music, though, the T90S are very strong performers. There are a range of EQ calibrations available through the LG Tone Free app, which were designed in collaboration with audio manufacturer Meridian.
These include Bass Boost, Immersive, Natural, Treble Boost and – my personal favorite – 3D Sound Stage. Using the latter, you’ll be treated to an expansive, yet controlled sound, with impactful bass response, well-defined vocals, and energetic treble.
The T90S also support the aptX Adaptive codec. This opens up ‘hi-res’ listening over Bluetooth, with the earbuds capable of handling 24-bit, 96kHz sound. You will need a source device compatible with this codec, though, something accessible with many of the best MP3 players around.
Now, I think I’ve made it clear that I’d recommend these buds – but I’m actually more keen to do so now than I was a year ago. And that’s down to one key reason: price. Despite launching at $229 / £229 / AU$299, they’re often available for less now. In the UK, for instance, I’ve spotted the T90S going for just over £130. That’s amazing value for money when you consider all of the tech packed into this small-sized model.
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harry.padoan@futurenet.com (Harry Padoan)
