Essentially, the new WF-C510 earbuds leverage the possibilities of an updated Bluetooth 5.3 platform supporting multipoint connection, and keeping things simple on the audio codec side, with basic SBC and AAC only (until LE Audio becomes available, at least). The earbuds also support 'Quick Access' to things like Spotify Tap, Fast Pair (Android) and Swift Pair (Windows) with external devices and even Google's own version of locating the earbuds on Android phones. The WF-C510 Bluetooth and optimized antenna design implementation also allows using either the left or right earbud independently.
The interesting part is that Sony designed these earbuds with an Ambient Sound Mode, allowing users to hear the sound around them while listening to music. This means, they actually created an active design that depends on a high quality microphone to capture the outside world, even though there's no active noise cancellation circuit. It's relevant, because it means that Sony understands that users are valuing more the awareness possibilities while listening to music in public transport, for any outside activities, and even for the workplace.
The same microphone and the built-in DSP resources are also used to enable an enhanced communication mode with voice isolation. By turning on the "Voice Focus" function, the WF-C510 earbuds capture human voices while suppressing noise. And yes, that's possible because Sony actually provides decent digital signal processing capabilities in a USD $59.99 set of earbuds. This can also be used to personalize the sound settings with the Sony Headphones Connect app, creating custom EQs that can be loaded into the devices.
The Sony WF-C510 earbuds also offer Sony's DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine), to deliver "high quality sound" from compressed sources, and "create an authentic listening experience with well-balanced sound tuning from low to high frequencies". And of course, being a Sony product, there's also support for binaural Spatial Audio, with support for immersive 360 Reality Audio. With the Sony 360 Spatial Sound Personalizer app, users are able to capture and analyze their own ear shape and retrieve an optimized HRTF, allowing these earbuds to create a convincing personal spatial sound field when listening to Spatial Audio content.
Detailing the design, the new WF-C510 truly wireless earbuds are a smaller and more compact design versus previous generations from the brand, and are focused on user comfort. In fact, the WF-C510 are Sony's smallest ever closed type earbuds, so those with even smaller ears can achieve a more stable fit. Its shape was perfected to match the inside of the human ear, based on extensive ergonomic data in order to be comfortable for as many people as possible. The earbuds also feature a rounded design and matte finish for additional comfort. A flat and wider surface button has been added to ensure effortless operation, so users can take calls and start the music again quickly - even activate a voice assistant.
On the charging case side, the compact cylindrical shape also has a smaller and thinner design compared to previous models making it even more convenient to carry in a pocket or bag. And of course, Sony knows how important the battery is for these devices and ensures up to 11 hours of uninterrupted play time, while 5 minutes of quick charging provides up to 60 minutes of additional listening time.
The Sony WF-C510 earbuds and case are partially made of recycled plastic and feature packaging made entirely without plastic. They have an IPX46 splashes and sweat resistance rating and come in a choice of colors: blue, yellow, black, or white.
www.sony.com
