Creative Zen Hybrid Gen 2 Review (Headphones)
Summary: The Creative Zen Hybrid Gen 2 is exceptional value for money that delivers crystal clear wireless audio
4.7
Exceptional value!
The Creative Zen Hybrid Gen 2 headphones are a strong example of how thoughtful design and practical features can come together at an affordable price. They are built with a clean modern look that feels lightweight yet sturdy. The earcups are padded with soft cushions and the headband is adjustable so they remain comfortable even during long listening sessions. The cups swivel and fold flat which makes them easy to store in a bag or carry case when travelling. This foldable design adds to their portability and makes them a good option for commuting or holidays.
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Setup is straightforward. You can connect them via Bluetooth to your phone tablet or laptop in just a few steps. There is also a USB C port for charging and wired playback if needed. Once paired you can control playback directly from the headphones using the physical buttons. These onboard controls let you adjust volume skip tracks answer calls and toggle noise cancellation or ambient mode without needing to reach for your device.
The headphones are supported by the Creative app which adds another layer of customization. Through the app you can fine tune the EQ to match your listening preferences switch between sound profiles and update firmware. The app also allows you to manage features like low latency mode for gaming or video streaming and gives you more precise control over the hybrid active noise cancellation settings. This combination of physical controls and app based options makes the Zen Hybrid Gen 2 flexible. You can keep things simple with the onboard buttons or dive into the app for more advanced adjustments.
Performance is solid for the price. The hybrid active noise cancellation uses both feedforward and feedback microphones to reduce background noise while the ambient mode lets you stay aware of your surroundings when needed. The sound is driven by custom tuned 40 mm drivers that deliver clear highs balanced mids and a warm bass response. Battery life is another highlight. With ANC switched off you can get up to 67 to 70 hours of playback and even with ANC on you still have close to 49 hours. Charging is done via USB C and a quick top up gives you hours of listening.
The official retail price from Creative is 89.95 AUD though prices differ across online retailers with some listings closer to 99 AUD and others reaching up to 139 AUD. This variation means it is worth checking multiple stores before buying.
Overall the Creative Zen Hybrid Gen 2 headphones offer a strong mix of features for their price. They combine easy setup app based customization long battery life effective noise cancellation and a design that is both comfortable and portable. For anyone looking for budget friendly ANC headphones that still deliver quality sound and flexibility they are a solid choice that fits well into everyday life.
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