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About Flare Audio
Life can get noisy, but it’s not the volume that’s the problem, it’s the distortion. Flare Audio was first brought to life in Davies Roberts’ garage. Their first product? A loudspeaker for gigs and festivals.
Transitioning into consumer audio, they transformed their devices into mini form and in 2015, launched to the public via a crowdfunding campaign. Flare has now sold over 300,000 pairs of earplugs around the globe.
Over the years, the brand has received praise from music greats like Jimmy Page, Richard Hawley, and Jarvis Cocker. In recent years, their earplugs have been featured in notable media outlets including TechRadar and Wired, and they have a social following of over 3.5M.
According to a survey conducted by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), headphones were the most popular audio accessory among U.S. adults in 2021, with 73% of respondents owning a pair of headphones. Since nearly all of us own a pair, why not invest in the best?
Flare is undoubtedly a popular brand, but are they right for you? In this Flare Audio review, I’ll walk you through key details of their best-sellers, pros and cons, feedback, promotions, and more to help you find out.
Why You Should Trust Us
Our mission is to help you make better, more informed purchase decisions.
Our team spends hours researching, consulting with medical experts, gathering insight from expert professionals, reviewing customer feedback, and analyzing products to provide you with the information you need.
Studies About Audio Products
There have been numerous studies conducted on the effects of using earphones, headphones, and noise-cancelling headphones on hearing and overall health. While some positive, others serve as good reminders to be mindful of excessive use of in-ear accesssories.
Here are a few examples:
- A study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives found that using noise-cancelling headphones can help reduce exposure to noise pollution, which can have negative effects on cardiovascular and mental health.
- A study published in the Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research found that using noise-cancelling headphones can improve speech perception in noisy environments, which can be beneficial for individuals with hearing difficulties.
- A study published in the Journal of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery found that using in-ear headphones can increase the temperature of the ear canal, potentially leading to damage to hair cells that are responsible for hearing.
- A study published in the International Journal of Audiology found that prolonged use of headphones can lead to changes in auditory function, including decreased sensitivity to high-frequency sounds and an increased risk of hearing loss.
Flare Audio Pros and Cons
Before I describe the bestsellers in more detail, it might be helpful to see an overview of some advantages and disadvantages of the brand. Here are some pros and cons of Flare Audio:
Pros
- Unique technology: Flare Audio’s earphones and headphones are built with their own patented technology, called “Acoustic Lens Technology,” which is designed to provide a more natural and immersive listening experience.
- High-quality sound: Flare Audio’s products are known for their high-quality sound reproduction, with a focus on clarity and detail.
- Comfortable fit: Many users find Flare Audio’s earphones and headphones to be comfortable to wear for extended periods, due to their ergonomic design and choice of materials.
- Durable construction: Flare Audio’s products are built to last, with sturdy materials and careful attention to detail.
Cons
- Price: Flare Audio’s products are generally more expensive than those of other audio companies, which may make them less accessible to some users.
- Limited availability: Flare Audio’s products are not widely available in brick-and-mortar stores, so users may need to order online and wait for shipping.
- Mixed reviews: While many users rave about Flare Audio’s products, some have reported issues with fit, sound quality, or customer service.
- Limited product range: Flare Audio’s product range is relatively small, with a focus on high-end earphones and headphones, so users looking for other audio equipment (such as speakers) may need to look elsewhere.
Features
Flare Audio is known for its innovative approach to audio technology, and its products come with a range of features designed to enhance the listening experience.
Here are some of the features of Flare Audio:
- Acoustic Lens Technology: Flare Audio’s patented Acoustic Lens Technology is designed to provide a more natural and immersive listening experience. The technology uses specially shaped sound reflectors to manipulate sound waves, resulting in a more spacious and detailed sound.
- Ear tips: Flare Audio’s earphones come with a range of ear tips to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. The ear tips are made from materials such as silicone, memory foam, and Comply foam, and come in a variety of sizes to fit different ear shapes.
- Detachable cables: Many of Flare Audio’s earphones and headphones come with detachable cables, which allow users to easily replace or upgrade the cable if needed.
- Wireless connectivity: Flare Audio offers a range of wireless earphones and headphones that connect to devices via Bluetooth. These products are designed for convenience and portability.
- Noise isolation: Many of Flare Audio’s earphones and headphones offer noise isolation, which helps to block out external noise for a more immersive listening experience.
- Durability: Flare Audio’s products are designed to be durable and long-lasting. The materials used in the construction of the products are high-quality, and many of the products come with a protective carry case for added protection.
- Customizable sound: Flare Audio’s earphones and headphones allow users to customize the sound to their preferences, with options such as adjustable bass levels or customizable EQ settings.
Overall, Flare Audio’s products are designed with a focus on innovation, comfort, and high-quality sound, and offer a range of features to enhance the listening experience.
5 Best Selling Flare Audio Products
Flare Audio Calmer Review
The Calmer earbuds are what Flare Audio is most known for. They help manage noise sensitivities with a patent-pending design that’s an alternative to earplugs. In fact, they’re nothing like normal earplugs, working to lessen your stress response to noises without blocking sound.
If you find yourself triggered or distracted by noise, Calmer may help. Use them when in the office, at a busy cafe, or around noisy children. You’ll still hear sounds around you but experience less distortion–the element of sound that can be triggering.
Who is Calmer best suited for? Anyone with sensitive hearing but they also can be helpful for the following conditions:
- Misophonia
- Autism
- ADHD
- Migraines
- Hyperacusis
Made with soft silicone, washable and reusable tips, choose from standard or mini sizes in translucent, purple, grey, or mint colors. Your Flare Calmer buds will arrive with a carry pouch for $30.
What customers say: “I bought it for my sister who suffers from Misophonia but I decide to try it for my Tinnitus. It worked very well for me, unbelievable good!!! I ordered a new one for my sister. I’m very glad with Calmer, very comfortable and small.” – Elaine Cremona
Flare Audio Sleeep Review
We’ve all been there. The snoring partner…the noisy city…the new space. The list of noises that keeps up awake at night is ever-expanding, and if you’re in your 30s, you know how difficult it is to sleep in the first place.
The Sleeep (no, not a typo) earplugs reduce noises completely. They’re small and fit snugly in your ear without the fuss of a regular foam earplug. And what’s more, these actually work.
Made with an angled design to fit all ears, they have a transparent tab that’s discreet and soft memory foam tips for comfort all night long.
With about 32dcB of noise reduction, grab your pair of Flare Audio sleep earphones along with the standard-size Earfoams for just $7.
What customers say: “I’ve tried so many night time earplugs and these are the best. So comfortable and durable. They block out enough to help you sleep (but not miss your alarm).” – Naomi, FlareAudio.com
Flare Audio Flares Jet Review
Flare Audio pours a ton of tech and detail into everything they make. The Flares Jet earphones are no exception. If you’re picky about sound quality but don’t want to spend a fortune, these little guys pack a serious punch.
What makes them different from other, regular earphones? They have been engineered so that sound is generated, controlled, and delivered without adding resonation.
This means you can hear with added clarity and smoothness. Take them for a spin while traveling, or make and receive phone calls with the remote music and phone call control.
This is Flare Audio’s Gen 3 model, made from precision-turned titanium for added durability. Made with stress-tested cable and gold-plated connectors, these are anything but fussy. Your Flare Jet earphones will come with S, M, and L replaceable silicone tips and a leather pouch for $60.
What customers say: “These earphones sit snug in the ear and with the 3 pair of tips provided you’ll find one that fits comfortably. The sounds is great and mic quality is decent. I use these for music, podcasts and teams call and they perform well for all of these.” – Claire Dorling, FlareAudio.com
Flare Audio E-Prototype Review
The E-Prototype promises the best sound you’ve ever heard or your money back. That’s quite a claim, so let’s see how they make that happen.
These unique earphones use Mirror Image Sound™ Technology that changes the internal shape of your ears to increase sound quality. Ok, I’ll bite.
Flare Audio goes on to say that our natural internal ear shape distorts sound by up to 20% so normal earphones have their limits in terms of clarity and smoothness. Whether you’re listening to music, composing, or mixing, these patent-pending earphones can take your experience to new heights.
The Flare Audio earphones feature a 3D printed design and have a mix and control button. Durable with stress-tested cables and gold-plated connectors, they come with a Flare hard care and S, M, and L replaceable silicone tips for $300.
What customers say: “Simply incredible. I think it’s the clarity that so stuns me, clarity without any hint of the coldness and loss of warmth that is the usual trade-off in achieving that level of precision… clarity + depth = joy.” – Stephen Fry; Actor, Author, Broadcaster, FlareAudio.com
Flare Audio EarHD 360 Review
As the name suggests, EarHD 360 increases sound quality in every direction. Using special technology to reduce distortion, it delivers an up-leveled listening experience.
How exactly does it work? By guiding sound into your ear while you listen to music or whenever you’d like enhanced sound quality. Fitting comfortably in your ear, EarHD 360 is made from molded ABS or Polycarbonate and comes in clear or black.
Your kit will arrive with one pair of the EarHD 360 buds and a Flare carry pouch for $38.
What customers say: “When I have these on I can enjoy my ears longer and I hear sounds more distinctive.” – Sebastian Behringer, FlareAudio.com
Does Flare Audio Work?
Flare Audio has helped users feel calmer, more in control, and more focused. Their earbuds enhance sound quality at live events and are rated highly by those that try them.
Who would I recommend Flare Audio to?
Flare Audio is aimed at people with hearing sensitivities. If you have any kind of hearing sensitivity condition such as Hyperacusis, Hypersensitivity, and Misophonia. If you have ADHD or autism, their earbuds might be able to help too.
Who I wouldn’t recommend Flare Audio to?
Flare Audio does not make hearing aids. If you are looking for a device to help increase sound and speech clarity, try a different brand.
Searching for Flare Audio tinnitus earplugs? This brand doesn’t claim to reduce tinnitus, but certain designs may help limit its presence after a loud concert.
Alternatives To Flare Audio
If you’d rather shop around before you commit, check out any of these comparable brands:
- Loop Earplugs have excellent ratings and a great variety of earplugs for sleep, study, concerts, and more. Like Flare, they reduce excess background noise but keep all of the sound. Unlike Flare, they aren’t designed to be as discreet.
- Matador makes an earplug travel kit that will ensure you can sleep while on the go. Unlike Flare, it blocks noise–up to 32dCB.
- Oticon makes hearing aids, not earplugs. Similar to Flare Audio, they can help you hear better, but unlike the competitor, they increase sound, not dull it.
What Do Experts Think?
Flare Audio has been reviewed by numerous sources, but one that I think speaks volumes is Louder Sound.
Chris Barnes, the website’s Ecommerce Editor (a self-proclaimed metalhead and someone who has reviewed countless gadgets and music gear) tried out the Isolate Pros. Of his experience after inserting the buds at a live concert, he said the following:
“During this time you feel the foam slowly expand before achieving what feels like fantastic isolation, as if the sound guy is slowly turning down the volume and dialing in some EQ.”
His main concern was their size. Their small size, however, also makes them discreet, he says, which is a major plus for many.
Flare Audio Reviews: What Do Customers Think?
Since feedback is a critical part of any Flare Audio review, I made sure to include a ton of it in mine. Let’s take a peek at some ratings from the brand’s website first then we’ll dive into the comments.
- EarHD 360: 4.5/5 stars, 19 reviews
- EPrototype: 4.9/5 stars, 18 reviews
- Flares Jet: 4.8/5 stars, 259 reviews
- Sleeep: 4.5/5 stars, 195 reviews
- Calmer: 4.5/5 stars, 1958 reviews
Since the Calmer buds are the brand’s most popular product, the following Flare Audio Calmer review is about them. It reads:
“I decided to try Calmer because they seem to be the only option on the market that doesn’t impact speech frequencies, and I can’t afford to lose hearing capability on my only good ear. I’m quite satisfied so far, the difference when having Calmer on is quite perceptible, it does cut higher frequencies without significantly altering the rest.”
On a website called Louder Sound, their team wrote a Flare Audio review about the Isolate Pros. Awarding them 4.5/5 stars, here’s what they had to say about their performance:
“…the Isolate Pros did reduce the overall volume as expected, we also experienced enhancements in the bass frequencies, particularly the bass guitar and kick drum, meaning the music still felt nice and punchy. The plugs also helped clear up some of the muddiness in the raw live sound (ie. the sound without plugs in). And post-gig, we’re happy to report zero ear fatigue and zero ringing.”
Having recently attended a live show and experienced ringing in my ears for several days after, the usefulness of the Flare Audio Isolate Pros is made clear.
The final Flare Audio review we’ll check out comes from Amazon and is for the Calmer buds. They were given a 3.6/5-star score among 2,113 reviews. See the rating snapshot below:
- 5 stars: 44%
- 4 stars: 15%
- 3 stars: 16%
- 2 stars: 8%
- 1 star: 17%
“Maybe it’s not for you but maybe IT IS. I was flawed for many years by reading pros and cons and sticking to the cons… Personally, they stay perfectly in my ears and my auditory shutdowns from my two ADHD daughters went down drastically… I sometimes have to make them repeat what they say but HEY, my patience REMAINS no matter what so… Yeah. TRY THESE,” wrote one shopper in their Flare Audio review.
The main issue that customers face with Flare Audio Calmer buds is regarding the size. Some say they fit in their ears perfectly while others say otherwise. Flare says that their regular-size buds will fit 90% of ears. They offer a smaller size for those who need it.
Is Flare Audio Legit?
Flare Audio is a legit company with products that have been life-changing for many. There have been some negative reviews on Trustpilot about the efficacy of certain products and some express issues with returns as well.
Is Flare Audio Worth It?
All things in this Flare Audio review considered, I think their earbuds and earphones are well worth the money. They aren’t expensive and they deliver excellent results. Enough said.
Where To Buy Flare Audio
You can find select Flare Audio products at Amazon and Walmart. To shop directly with the brand, go to FlareAudio.com.
FAQ
Who owns Flare Audio?
Davies Roberts owns Flare Audio. He’s the brand founder and CEO.
What does Flare Audio do?
Flare Audio makes abrasive sounds smooth. Calmer isn’t an earplug and reduces noise; it doesn’t block it. This means you’ll have all of the volume but less of the distortion.
Does Flare Audio Calmer work?
Feedback says yes. Flare Audio Calmer helps will sound sensitivity and hearing conditions like Hyperacusis, Hypersensitivity, and Misophonia. Noises that would normally be agitating and reduced, leading users to – you guessed it – feel calmer.
Where does Flare Audio ship to?
Around the world. See the next section of this Flare Audio review for more information.
What is Flare Audio’s Shipping Policy?
Flare Audio ships around the globe. See below for all shipping options:
- Tracked Post (12-18 business days): $5
- P2P TrakPak (6-12 business days): $15
- DHL Express Worldwide (4-8 business days): $35
Orders over $30 in value will be shipped for free. Orders placed after 1 pm on Friday will be dispatched on the following Monday.
What is Flare Audio’s Returns Policy?
Flare Audio offers a 100-day money-back guarantee on their earbuds or earphones. If you’re not stoked about your experience with Flare, get in touch with their team and they will make it right. If they cannot resolve your issue, they will give you a full refund.
Here’s a rundown of how the return process goes:
- Pack your items securely
- Include your order number and name on the address label
- Use a tracked service to send your products back
- Send your package to the following address:
Flare Audio (Returns)
Unit 11 Chartwell Business Centre
42 Chartwell Road
Lancing
BN15 8FB
United Kingdom
How To Contact Flare Audio
If you have questions this Flare Audio review didn’t answer, get in touch directly with the brand. To open up a line of conversation, use the contact form.
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