Luxury audio brand Devialet has introduced the Gemini II noise-canceling earphones. The new version was launched today (September 13) and builds on the original Gemini earphones launched in October 2020, improving audio performance and user experience and introducing multiple color options wrapped in an equally powerful design aesthetic.

Unlike Devialet's original Gemini earphones, which launched at $280 / £250 / A$450 (at the time, they were seen as price rivals to Apple's AirPods Pro and Sony's WF-1000XM4), the Gemini II earphones are considerably accompanied by a price increase.

The Gemini II noise-canceling earphones are priced at $450/£399 (about A$700 at today's US dollar conversion rate) for the regular matte black or white color options. The white and gold Opera de Paris edition is even more expensive at $650/599 pounds (about A$1,010). [The Gemini II is more expensive than Bowers & Wilkins' second-generation Pi7 S2 earphones, announced earlier this year, at $399/£349.

DeViale explains that inside the Gemini II are many new technologies to justify the price tag, including an all-new custom 10mm titanium-coated driver in each earphone. They also support Bluetooth 5.2, with multipoint connectivity and aptX codec support, and feature proprietary adaptive noise-canceling technology developed specifically for the next generation of earphones. Adaptive noise canceling technology uses a hybrid dual-microphone construction and digital filters to dynamically adjust to the shape of the wearer's ear. According to Devialet, this ensures the best noise cancellation for all users in any environment.

In addition, Gemini II features a new technology that Devialet calls Active Wind Reduction (AWR). As the name implies, this technology is designed to limit wind noise affecting the earphones by using a layer of anti-wind material and a cavity to shield the microphone membrane from wind blowing against the earphone's surface. In addition, Devialet's wind detection software controls the intensity of adaptive noise cancellation and transparency based on ambient conditions.

Voice calls also benefit from the use of the new AWR technology, which combined with the new bone conduction sensor is said to deliver clear and smooth call quality.

The Devialet Gemini II is said to have an IPX4 rating, the same level of waterproofing as the AirPods Pro 2. No mention was made of the charging case's level of protection. The new touch controls can be customized through the Devialet app, and the device is said to offer 5 hours of playback on a single battery charge, or 22 hours when using the charging case. This is lower than many rivals, but stay tuned for a detailed review to see how these battery life figures translate in real-world use; Devialet did not mention wireless charging support.

Devialet CEO Franck Lebouchard had this to say about the Gemini II. Devialet Gemini II is the culmination of 15 years of expertise in acoustic research and development, enabling us to deliver an even greater sound experience in the smallest package ever. Driven by our vision of consistently pushing the boundaries of audio design, the new design of the Devialet Gemini II offers a universal, luxury listening experience with improved ergonomics that allows listeners to experience industry-leading proprietary technology without ever feeling like they are wearing earphones. luxury listening experience. Audio on the go has never been more comfortable."

Again, the Devialet Gemini II adaptive noise-canceling earphones are priced at $450/£399 (about A$700 at today's US dollar conversion rate) with matte black or white color options. If you want even more luxury, there is also a white and gold Opera de Paris edition, priced at £599/$650 (about A$1,010).

The Devialet Gemini II can be purchased online through the Devialet website or through company-owned stores and retailers. All color options come with four ear tip sizes.