So far we’ve brought you our thoughts on a couple of Promate products, this time we’re testing their over-ear wired headphones – the Promate Encore. It boasts “high definition stereo quality sound” but can it live up to its claim? Let’s find out in our quick review.
Design and Construction
At first glance, the Promate Encore looks like your typical over-ear headphones – big headband with chunky circular housings. It is almost 100% made of plastic, from the bands to the housings, except for the metal screws and the textile covering the drivers.
The paddings used are made of faux leather which feels firm yet soft enough when squeezed. The rest of the body features a matte finish which resists fingerprints and smudges well.
When worn, the Encore feels comfortable as it is light thanks to its plastic build. The bands are adjustable while the housings are attached to a swivel to help achieve a snug fit. However, it doesn’t swivel much unlike most headphones. The bands are also foldable for easy storage.
As for its build quality, the Encore is far from impressive. Although the plastic build makes for a very light pair of headphones, it feels flimsy and looks cheap. The wires are thick, though, but like the rest of the headphones, the material doesn’t exude quality.
Sound Quality
As mentioned earlier, the Promate Encore claims “high definition stereo quality sound” as well as “crystal sound”. It even boasts “passive noise cancellation”. Unfortunately, I don’t think we felt those features in play from the Encore.
It has weak highs and sounds muffled like you’re listening to a speaker enclosed in a box. Bass is noticeable but sounds flat and lacks power. That said, it won’t provide you that deep thumping and rumbling that would give hip-hop and club music justice.
Conclusion
To sum it up, the Promate Encore is disappointing both in hardware and audio quality. If there’s one decent thing going on for it is its lightweight build and low price of Php995.
However, we still suggest going for more reputable brands if you already have that budget. One good example is the JBL T450 which is currently priced at Php899 at Lazada. And if you can further increase your budget, that would open up better options.
Promate Encore specs:
Driver unit diameter: 40mm
Sensitivity: 110dB ±3dB
Frequency: 20Hz-20KHz
Impedance: 32?
Input jack: 3.5mm
Cable Length: 1.5m
Black, Brown, Blue, Green.
Pros:
* Lightweight
* Low price
Cons:
* Sub-par audio quality
* Cheap build quality
Soundmagic P11S provides best value for money for under 1k! Very good audio quality at foldable hence portable. Looks okay but material feels cheap, though it is understandable for price. So far matibay naman, ginagamit ko for commutes and it is holding up well.