Apple Drops AirPods Max to New All-Time Low on Amazon, Rivals Sony and Bose Are Freaking Out - Kotaku

"The premium active noise canceling headphone market is filled to the brim with offerings from Sony, Bose, Sonos, and many more all vying for your attention. Apple is still Apple, however, and the AirPods Max is one of the best-selling products in the category despite the crowded competition and higher price tag. This record low of $429 at Amazon, down from the usual $549, puts extreme pressure on every competitor in the space."

"Computational audio combined with advanced algorithms allows the active noise-cancellation system to block outside sound with phenomenal effectiveness. Each ear cup has three outward-facing microphones that detect ambient noise, while one inward-facing microphone monitors sound that reaches your ear. This audio is processed 200 times per second by the system to create anti-noise that cancels out unwanted sounds before they reach your ears."

"The effectiveness goes beyond what most of the competition achieves and creates a level of isolation that allows for focused work or pure enjoyment of music anywhere. You immediately notice the difference it makes on flights, in busy offices, or while you're walking down crowded streets where background noise simply disappears. The system continuously adjusts to your environment and head movements, and keeps consistent cancellation even as conditions change around you."

Premium active noise-canceling headphones face intense competition from Sony, Bose, Sonos, and others. The AirPods Max remain a top-selling choice despite a higher price, thanks to Apple integration, strong sound, and professional-level noise cancellation. A temporary price drop to $429 from $549 creates significant competitive pressure and increases value proposition. Computational audio and advanced algorithms power the ANC, using multiple outward-facing microphones and an inward-facing microphone to monitor sound and generate anti-noise 200 times per second. The system achieves exceptional isolation across flights, offices, and crowded streets, continuously adjusting to environment and head movements. Transparency mode passes outside sound naturally when needed.

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