Victor's new ear-cuff earbuds tackle sound leakage

Open-ear earbuds are convenient for hearing what's happening around you, but they have one obvious drawback: everyone nearby might also hear what you're listening to. Victor's new HA-NP1T2 aims to make that less of a problem.

Announced in Japan on November 5, the second-generation ear-cuff earbuds replace the HA-NP1T introduced in 2024. Their biggest addition is a sound leakage reduction mode that adjusts specific frequencies, alongside a redesigned internal structure intended to prevent audio from escaping. JVC Kenwood has also refined its Flexible Adjust mechanism, widening the opening for easier fitting while reshaping the inner arch to reduce pressure and improve stability. The result, according to the manufacturer, is a more secure fit without compromising comfort.

The audio hardware includes repositioned 10 mm dynamic drivers with neodymium magnets and new multiband dynamic range control, which the company says improves bass reproduction. Three listening modes remain available: Normal, High and Bass. Bluetooth multipoint connectivity, low-latency mode, IPX4 splash resistance and microphone noise reduction round out the specifications.

Battery life reaches nine hours per charge, compared with eight hours on the original model. However, the charging case now provides another 13 hours, bringing total endurance to 22 hours, down from the predecessor's 24 hours.

Available in five colors, the HA-NP1T2 is scheduled for release in Japan in mid-November, with a price of ¥19,800 (approximately $130). The improvements address genuine limitations of open-ear listening, although independent testing will determine whether the leakage reduction works well enough to keep your questionable playlists private.