Bone conduction headphones have become increasingly popular for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts thanks to their unique open-ear design. Wildhorn's Crank headphones take bone conduction a step further, offering features specifically targeted towards swimmers and fitness fanatics.
But are they worth the investment? This review dives deep into the Wildhorn Crank's capabilities to help you decide.
Key Highlights
- Open-ear design for safety and comfort during workouts
- IPX8 waterproof – perfect for swimming
- Secure fit with wraparound titanium frame
- Built-in MP3 player with 2500 song capacity
- Bluetooth 5.4 for seamless music streaming
- Fast magnetic charging
Pros:
- Excellent for situational awareness and hearing safety
- Comfortable and secure fit for active use
- Waterproof for swimming and other water activities
- Built-in MP3 player for phone-free listening
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Bass response is not as strong as traditional headphones
- No microphone (current version)
Open-Ear Advantage: Safety and Comfort Combined
Unlike traditional earbuds that rest inside your ear canal, bone conduction headphones transmit sound vibrations through your cheekbones to your inner ears. This open-ear design offers several benefits:
- Enhanced Situational Awareness: Runners and cyclists can stay alert to their surroundings, a crucial safety feature.
- Reduced Hearing Damage: By bypassing the eardrum, bone conduction is gentler on your ears, especially during long listening sessions.
- All-Day Comfort: No more ear fatigue or discomfort – ideal for extended workouts or swims.
Advanced Audio Features
- Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity with a range of up to 30 meters
- Fast charging with a full charge in 2 hours and a 20-minute quick charge providing up to 1.5 hours of runtime
Wildhorn Crank: Built for Your Active Lifestyle
The Wildhorn Crank boasts several features that cater to the active user:
- IPX8 Waterproofing: Completely submersible, the Crank is perfect for pool workouts or open-water swimming.
- Secure Fit: The wraparound titanium frame ensures a snug fit that stays put during vigorous activities.
- Built-in MP3 Player with 2500 Song Capacity: Leave your phone behind and enjoy music on the go.
- Bluetooth 5.4: Stream music seamlessly from your smartphone or other devices.
- Fast Magnetic Charging: A quick 20-minute charge provides up to 1.5 hours of playback.
Sound Quality: Balancing Bone Conduction with Bass
Bone conduction technology is known for prioritizing clarity over deep bass. While the Crank delivers crisp highs and mids, bass tones are slightly less pronounced compared to traditional headphones. However, Wildhorn's audio engineers have implemented technological advancements to deliver a richer and more balanced soundscape than many bone conduction headphones on the market.
Premium Components for Rugged Use
The Crank Sport model is designed to withstand the elements, with an IPX7 waterproof rating that protects against rain, sweat, and even submersion in up to 3 feet of water for 30 seconds. The headphones feature a medical-grade silicone wrapping and are constructed with durable ABS and titanium materials, ensuring they can keep up with your active lifestyle.
High-Tech Audio Features
The Crank Bone Conduction Headphones boast impressive audio capabilities, including Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity with a range of up to 30 meters. The built-in MP3 player can store up to 2,500 songs or 140 hours of audio, allowing you to leave your phone behind on your adventures. The headphones also feature fast charging, with a full charge in just 2 hours and a quick 20-minute charge providing up to 1.5 hours of runtime.
Lifetime Fidelity Gear Program
Wildhorn offers a unique Lifetime Fidelity Gear (LFG) program, which allows you to replace your headphones for any reason besides loss or theft at a discounted rate. This gives you peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected, even if something unexpected happens to your Crank Bone Conduction Headphones.
- ALL-DAY OPEN-EAR COMFORT: Crank bone headphones allow you to enjoy high quality music with...
- IPX8 WATERPROOF CERTIFIED - MP3 MODE FOR UNDERWATER USE: Designed for continuous immersion...
- STAY CONNECTED EVERYWHERE: With the open ear headphones wireless Bluetooth 5.4, expect...
Wildhorn Crank FAQs
1. Are the Wildhorn Cranks comfortable for wearing with a swim cap or goggles?
Yes, the Crank's wraparound design is comfortable to wear with swimming gear.
2. Can I take calls with the Wildhorn Cranks?
The current version of the Crank does not have a microphone.
3. How long does the battery last on the Wildhorn Cranks?
A single charge provides up to 8 hours of playtime for Bluetooth mode and up to 10 hours for MP3 playback.
4. Is there a warranty on the Wildhorn Cranks?
Wildhorn offers a limited lifetime warranty on the Cranks.
5. Where can I buy the Wildhorn Cranks?
The Wildhorn Cranks are available on the Wildhorn Outfitters website and other major online retailers.
