Flares Pro Bluetooth Earphone Review

Usability –

The Flares Pros have a partially modular design that allows users to easily switch between a wired and wireless connection. Interestingly, Flares are putting particular emphasis on their Bluetooth implementation that promises superior quality to more conventional setups and, in Flares’ case, improved sound quality over a wired connection too (which would be a first for me).

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In terms of hardware, the Bluetooth module does not share the earphones fabulous build quality but remains one of the better-constructed modules I’ve handled. It has a full plastic construction that is well sized with a nice toothed shirt clip that firmly holds the device. The module is also relatively light weight, I did notice it during a jog but never did it become cumbersome and I definitely prefer this approach to the neckband style wireless earphones or those that house all of the electronics within the remote.

The front is dominated by three large buttons that are stiff but clicky though they are a bit difficult to discern due to their identical sizing and design. The module feels a bit disappointing when considering their $600 AUD asking price, it does feel somewhat hollow and brittle. That being said, it does have some weight with no flex or creak and most importantly, the gold plated MMCX connectors on the top are snappy and solid and the clip at the rear holds its place perfectly.

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Pairing is simple, controlled via the centre button which doubles as the status LED and power button. Holding for 2 seconds powers on and, if they are already paired, they quickly auto connect to available devices. Otherwise, the module immediately enters pairing mode upon power on. Once connected, the centre button controls the play/pause function and the volume buttons adjust the internal volume of the module separate to the source. Unfortunately, I couldn’t get double and triple tap to skip functions to work.

Battery life was close to Flares rating of 12 hours which is great considering the modules size and driving power. On that note, the maximum volume is good but not great, however, that is more due to the inefficiency of the earphones themselves than the module itself and I was comfortable listening at around 25% volume anyway. The module automatically turns off when no audio is playing or if no device is paired and remembers volume setting between power cycles, something that is quite uncommon and convenient.

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Bluetooth range is also very good, they maintained a solid connection with my iPod Nano, even when the device was placed on the opposite side of my body. Most Bluetooth earphones become extremely spotty with such placing, some failing to connect altogether, but the Flares were almost completely reliable with only some slight skipping when obscured by my hand or arm. With a more line of sight connection, the earphones achieve vastly more range, I was able to traverse between rooms in my house without breakup.

Next Page: Sound

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ABOUT AUTHOR

Ryan Soo

Ryan Soo

Avid writer, passionate photographer and sleep-deprived medical student, Ryan has an ongoing desire to bring quality products to the regular reader.

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9 Responses

  1. Hey Anisha,

    The Flares Pro has a great bass response but if you’re sensitive to treble, I would not recommend it as it is quite bright.

  2. Hi,
    I am more into bass. Does this handle it well or is it more towards crisp treble which irritates me.

  3. Hi Prach,

    I haven’t noticed this on my unit and I took them for a few runs which should manifest any kind of oxidation or discolouration. Definitely contact Flare and try for a replacement hopefully, you just got a bad unit.

  4. Thanks for the great review!!

    I have some questions, if you would not mind to answer.
    I got mine a week ago. The cable is turning from clear to yellowing especially near the area which is contacted with my cheek. I use this earphone in office and studio. I am not sure what’s wrong.
    Do you have this issue?

  5. Flare are pretty secretive about the exact specifications of the Pro though you shouldn’t be too concerned about them unless you like to listen REALLY loud. The website should have their price at the top, it automatically adjusts to your local currency, for me it was ~$600 AUD. Davies did mention that they are in high demand, it’s possible they are out of stock.

  6. Any specs available somewhere? On their page, there are none… also no prices… strange page, I can’t put anything in shopping basket

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