I'm going to get started on it right away, you need to hear this. Final's previous release of ANC over-ear headphones is best explained in our five-star Final UX3000 review, which we raved about: “These headphones are either underpriced or overachieving – either way, they demand listening pleasure , thanks to their articulate sound and excellent specifications”.
But the thing is, those cans launched for $149 / £119 (about AU$200), which is remarkably affordable compared to most of the best noise-canceling headphones out there, including the November 2022 Sony WH-1000XM5 with their launch price of $399/$380. But now Final has undercut even itself.
Unveiling the UX2000 (which landed today, December 8), Final tells us it's taken its award-winning expertise and applied it to a new ANC over-ear proposition – for just £99 / $119. You doesn't take a mathematician to figure out that this year's effort is €30 (or £20) cheaper than the 2022 model. Refreshing!
While I'm impressed, I'm also confused. You see, Final just launched its premium ZE8000 MK2 earbuds update, but the Japanese audio brand also recently unveiled its budget VR2000 gaming earbuds – and remember: this is a company known for its graceful multi-driver IEMs and silver-plated cables (see the Pianoforte series if you don't believe me). So what's going on here?
Final tells us that the UX2000 is more than just a new addition to the UX series; it represents Final's commitment to combining cutting-edge technology with unparalleled audio performance. Final says of the cans: “Whether for gaming, music or calling, the UX2000 is designed to deliver an unparalleled auditory experience and set new standards in the wireless headphone market.”
All this for $119? You have my full attention, Finale.
Is that your final offer? I'll take it!
Final tells us that the UX2000 headphones build on the legacy of the UX3000 while introducing their own unique design and features – although if you can't see the resemblance to the iconic Sony WH-1000XM4, I might recommend a visit to your local optometrist to suggest.
The UX2000 features a high-quality matte finish that resists fingerprints and smudges, “advanced hybrid noise cancellation technology,” a housing structure with multiple adjustment points for a perfect fit, soft ear cushions and headband padding, Bluetooth 5.3, up to 45 hours of audio playback, and an ENC microphone system that promises to eliminate ambient noise for clear vocal communication during gaming sessions.
That's right! New to the UX2000 (aside from their even lower price) is a low-latency gaming mode, making them an ideal potential companion for gamers who demand high-quality synchronized audio. But of course, this mode can also be useful for users when watching movies, as long as it does what it says on the tin.
You get up to 45 hours with ANC or up to 60 hours without.
If I were to point out any drawbacks, I would note that only the lower codecs (SBC, AAC) are supported, so no higher resolution aptX or aptX Adaptive streaming quality here. But with their admirably stylish build and finish, I still think they could give our pick of the best cheap headphones a run for the money, and then some for features and comfort.
They're available in a lovely cream finish or in black, but I'm still struggling to figure out how Final did it… Suffice it to say, I can't wait to hear them – and to give you a full verdict about the sound-per-pound value. Watch this space.