True Wireless technology prioritizes the convenience of a completely wireless earbud connection, often at the expense of Bluetooth bandwidth. This is the fundamental trade-off consumers accept when opting for this technology. While the reduction in audio fidelity may be negligible for some, the enhanced portability and convenience can outweigh concerns about Hi-Fi sound, particularly for podcasts and audiobooks. The question is: can Panasonic elevate the True Wireless experience with their release of two new models in July? Here at senses, we share our insights on the larger model, the RZ-S500W, after a month of hands-on use.
The Panasonic RZ-S500W incorporates Bluetooth 5.0, which promises improved connection stability and reduced power consumption. Panasonic claims a total battery life of 19.5 hours with a fully charged carrying case (6.5 hours from the earbuds themselves). Our testing confirms these figures to be accurate, with ANC enabled and the volume set to a moderate level. A full charge of both the earbuds and the case requires approximately four hours. Fast charging is also supported, providing just over an hour of playback from a 15-minute charge (using USC-B and a compatible PD charger).
Technology and Fit – RZ-S500W
The Panasonic RZ-S500W ships with four pairs of plastic ear tips in the following sizes: extra small, small, large, and extra large, omitting a medium size. For optimal bass response and noise cancellation (ANC) performance, it is recommended to use the largest size that comfortably fits. Panasonic employs a dual hybrid ANC system, combining Feedforward Noise Cancelling (FF-NC) and Feedback Noise Cancelling (FB-NC). This system processes audio signals both analogically and digitally to maximize the reduction of ambient noise. When properly fitted, the ANC system performs effectively, noticeably reducing environmental noise. While it may not completely eliminate loud sounds like an airplane engine, it is well-suited for daily use in urban environments. Users should still exercise caution when crossing streets.
The weight distribution and design of the earbuds could be improved. The primary weight of the earbud is concentrated in the body, while the in-ear portion is relatively short. This creates a lever effect, which can compromise stability. While adequate for stationary listening, the earbuds may dislodge during high-impact activities or cycling, even after trying different ear tip sizes. In terms of secure fit, Creative Labs’ Outlier Gold remains a benchmark among True Wireless earbuds we have tested.
Panasonic has opted for the AAC codec (widely used by leading manufacturers like Apple’s AirPods) and SBC (which is mandatory). This initially seemed a somewhat limited choice. We had hoped for at least aptX, or even a high-resolution Bluetooth codec such as aptX HD or Sony’s LDAC, which Panasonic successfully incorporated into their over-ear headphones, the HD-605N. While aptX HD involves licensing fees to Qualcomm, LDAC is an open-source standard that is free to use. Currently, there are no True Wireless earbuds on the market (to our knowledge) that support aptX HD or LDAC. Panasonic could have distinguished themselves from the competition by being the first to offer this capability and challenge Apple’s dominance in the market.
Panasonic aims to enable complete control of the earbuds via voice commands and touch gestures, minimizing the need to interact directly with your phone. Integration with Google Assistant on Android devices and Siri on iPhones was reasonably effective. However, in many cases, directly interacting with the phone remains a faster and more reliable option than using voice commands. The ability to adjust the volume directly on the earbud is a practical and convenient feature.
The RZ-S500W is IPX4-rated, providing sweat resistance for worry-free use during workouts.
Sound Quality
Despite its inherent limitations, the AAC codec delivers respectable audio quality, and the RZ-S500W performs admirably. The sound signature is notably good. The bass response is rich and warm, and the 8mm neodymium drivers produce a surprisingly full sound for this format. While the bass does not reach the depths of over-ear headphones, it provides satisfying low-end in tracks like Junge Junges’ Run Run Run, while maintaining clarity and separation in the midrange and treble frequencies. The larger diaphragm size is effectively utilized, providing good performance with more subdued tones, such as Post Malone’s rockstar, as well as acoustic music and live recordings.
Could the RZ-S500W be the most sonically pleasing True Wireless earbuds currently available? Our assessment suggests that it is a strong contender. The sound signature is slightly crisper than our previous reference, the Creative Outlier Gold, with enhanced bass depth and improved detail. The audio quality is approaching a level that even audiophiles may consider when choosing the convenience of True Wireless earbuds over bulkier over-ear models. This is a noteworthy achievement for Panasonic.
RZ-S500W – The Microphone
Panasonic highlights the beamforming technology incorporated into the six built-in MEMS microphones, designed to capture the user’s voice from two directions with focused clarity. However, the actual performance of the microphone array did not fully meet expectations. While phone calls are possible using the RZ-S500W, the audio quality is perceived as muffled and distant by the recipient, noticeably inferior to holding the phone directly to the ear. This is an area that could potentially be improved with future software updates, but currently, the microphone performance is not a key selling point for these earbuds.
The App
Panasonic’s audio app is well-designed and offers useful features. It allows users to update the earbuds’ firmware and locate misplaced earbuds via a built-in Tile-like function, using GPS positioning or by emitting a sound. Note that the latter feature requires the earbuds to remain powered on, which may impact battery life. The app also allows customization of the ANC level (excessive noise reduction can decrease battery life and introduce distortion) and enables integration with Amazon Alexa, which has not yet gained widespread adoption in Sweden.
Summary – Panasonic RZ-S500W
The Panasonic RZ-S500W represents the Japanese corporation’s initial entry into the rapidly expanding True Wireless market, and it is a respectable first attempt. Panasonic has a strong history of producing high-quality TVs, excellent UHD 4K Blu-ray players, and well-regarded headphones. While the RZ-S500W may have some initial shortcomings, it delivers impressive sound quality. Priced around 1700 SEK, it is positioned close to its primary competitors, making it an attractive option for consumers seeking True Wireless earbuds with superior audio performance. The fit and microphone performance are areas for improvement, but the fit is subjective and may be more suitable for certain ear shapes.
Footnote: Panasonic also offers a more affordable variant, the RZ-S300W, featuring smaller drivers and fewer features (including the omission of ANC). Panasonic also owns Technics, which will soon release a premium pair of True Wireless earbuds (EAH-AZ70W) with larger 10mm drivers and additional enhancements, along with a higher price point. We at senses will soon receive a test unit and will provide a comparative review.
