Future Sonics wants to make one thing clear about its Atrio m5 earbuds up front: unlike an increasing number of earbuds reaching market these days, the m5 is not intended to be one of those kitchen-sink type products with a built in microphone, play-pause buttons, or volume control. Those who want such functionality can look elsewhere, as the m5 is designed to do one thing and do it well: play back your music. And boy does it ever.
Billed as being a “professional” product, the Atrio m5 is nonetheless being marketed to the mainstream. The $199 price tag will naturally eliminate a large chunk of consumers right off the bat, as earbuds in this price range are aimed at those who are willing and able to invest fairly serious money into making sure their music sounds as great as possible. As such, the m5 possesses a level of clarity I’ve rarely found in other earbuds at any price point, a quality I’m assuming relates back to the fact that Future Sonics specializes in making custom “Ear Monitors” products for professional musicians.
So am I ready to trade in my current favorite earbuds in favor of the m5? In a word, no. Like plenty of other users, I’m in that category where I want all the bells and whistles and controls built into my earbuds for use with my iPhone. But for those who view such controls as mere distractions and instead want earbuds which simply deliver crystal clear music in the high and low ranges, the Atrio m5 delivers some serious audio firepower. It comes with a host of single and double flanged rubber earbud tips along with a variety of foam tips and a zippered case, and in a choice of beige, black, blue, brown, or red.
Price: $199 • FutureSonics.com
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