Cambridge Audio Melomania 1+

These lightweight, compact cylindrically shaped True Wireless headphones are available in black or light grey and are IPX5 protected against moisture and sweat. They are therefore not only suitable for mobile use, but also for sports. At the technical heart is a 3-core processor and a QCC3026 signal processor from Qualcomm. In terms of Bluetooth, the manufacturer relies on version 5 with support for the codecs SBC, aptX and AAC. Given the manufacturer’s general audiophile claims, I would have liked to see at least aptX HD at this point. In the compact charging case with a charge level indicator, these earphones go into the right position magnetically, are instantly recharged and automatically switch off and on again.

In practice

The product comes with a considerable selection of silicone and memory foam ear tips, so you can get a good fit and isolation from outside noise. The fit is basically pretty good. Since the design is identical to the previous model, I experienced a somewhat uncomfortable feeling of pressure during longer listening sessions, which is probably due to my specific ear shape. The fit itself was secure and sports use was quite possible, although the earpieces are not protected from falling out.

Pairing and connection stability are reliable. The range extends reliably over several rooms. The earpieces can also be used individually, which is practical for telephone calls, for example.

Instead of touch surfaces, the tops of the earpieces are equipped with smooth-action mechanical buttons. This prevents the accidental triggering of functions. Nevertheless, especially with multiple clicks, pressing the earplugs into the ear causes background noises. The volume can be controlled, as can start/pause, track jumps, making phone calls or calling up the voice assistant on a Smartphone.

A new feature is the support of the free and easy to use iOS/Android Melomania app with location service. In addition to firmware updates, it also offers status information on the charge level, a flexible five-band equaliser with several pre-sets and three separate memory locations, a manual codec selection (for Android) and a selection of operating modes (“High Performance” or “Lower Power”). Furthermore, the language of the messages can be changed and the manual can be accessed. The aforementioned shortcuts can be deactivated individually via the app for easier operation, but not redefined.

Sound

All tests were conducted in high-performance mode. As with their predecessor, the sound impression remains positive. The dynamic 5.8 mm drivers with graphene cone are impressive due to their rich and at the same time coherent sound image with a lot of pressure and powerful level reserves. The low-frequency range is rather warmly tuned, but also has sufficient contour and precision to reproduce the low bass, dynamics and tonal gradations in the lower register. Although this range is slightly accentuated, this is definitely an advantage for mobile use. The problem with mouth and jaw movements leading to a change in fitting position is still present but is significantly reduced with the memory foam fitting pieces.

The Melomania 1+ are also balanced and rather warm in the central midrange. Voices, acoustic and electronic instruments as well as searing metal guitars sound coherent. Regardless of the genre, the result is a full sound that is also impressive with classical orchestral recordings. The sound reproduction is broad but not bloated – even quiet and explicitly dynamic moments are reproduced credibly. Finally, in the high-frequency range, the device we tested was open and without harshness. The nuances and the “airiness” are brought out, although they don’t achieve the brilliance of expensive, audiophile constructions, as expected. This is accompanied by a broad stereo panorama. The depth of the room is the only thing that is not really audible, as is the case with most in-ears. At this point, however, I need to mention the attractive price of just under 130 Euros. Last but not least, I can also award points for the good voice quality during phone calls.