As a dedicated triathlete, the H2O Audio TRI 2 PRO with PLAYLIST+ has become an essential part of my training. Its design caters perfectly to my multi-sport needs, especially swimming. Here's my personal take:
*Bone Conduction Technology:
While the open-ear design is ideal for situational awareness in general, I primarily use these headphones with silicone earplugs during swims and indoor bike trainer sessions. This combination creates a focused audio experience, blocking out distractions while still enjoying my music.
*Waterproof Design (IPX8):
This is non-negotiable for me. The reliable waterproofing allows me to seamlessly transition from land to water without worry.
*PLAYLIST+ Feature:
This is a game-changer! The ability to record audio directly onto the device is invaluable, especially during long swims where Bluetooth is unreliable. However, I've found the recording process itself to be a bit time-consuming, and labeling tracks is definitely a challenge. If you mess up, you have to restart the whole process.
*Bluetooth 5.3 & Built-in MP3 Player:
Both provide flexibility. I appreciate having the option to stream music or rely on the onboard storage.
*Sound Quality:
As expected with bone conduction, the sound is adequate for training, but it's not audiophile-grade. For my purposes, it gets the job done.
*Button Controls:
I've found the button interface to be somewhat cumbersome. Switching between folders, adjusting volume, and even powering off requires a learning curve.
*PLAYLIST+ Recording:
As stated above, this is a great feature, but the process is time consuming, and error prone.
Overall:
The H2O Audio TRI 2 PRO with PLAYLIST+ is a robust and reliable training companion for triathletes. The waterproof design and offline playback are outstanding features. While the controls and recording process could be more user-friendly, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. If you're a triathlete seeking a durable and versatile audio solution, these headphones are a worthwhile investment, especially if you plan to use ear plugs while swimming or training indoors.
