Chris is based in Dunedin, New Zealand...here is his assessment of the Gen3 beta prototypes:

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Hi Team, 

No real structured approach to this so I've created my own.

Firstly out of all of the reviewers I resonated and agreed with 100% with Rae Morrison's review and feedback.  She nailed almost everything I was going to discuss. But here's my 2 cents mate.

Me - Chris O'Leary

Cyclist - Gravel Racing, Tuatara 1000 Bikepacking Race, Criterium and Road Racing

1).Styling - slim line and look less bulky on the ear, the colour I had was the Navy Blue - great colour and not as bold looking on the ear as the black models - excellent "soft look"

2). Fit - massive improvement over the Gen2. Not as heavy on the ear.  The rubber ear moulds on the prototype were softer and more fitting than Gen 3.  I could wear these all day without needing to give my ear a "rest" from the Gen 2 fit. Really appreciate the soft feel of the unit inside and around the ear.

3). The magnetic closure was absolutely spot on - felt stronger than Gen 2 and I couldn't get them to move on the ear even with jarring movement.  The weight and fit of the earbud is well matched to the magnet strength - keep the magnet strength at this level - perfect.  

4). Controls - having the controls on both ears was excellent. The button modes and placement on the control unit were logical and easy to use. Really appreciated the ability to track select and pause, nice logical sequencing. 

5). I don't understand the ANC mode however.  I'm assuming it means Auto Noise Cancelling ?  I heard it actuating but noted no difference in performance when surrounded by any variation in ambient noise - I feel this needs explaining or something very unique happening when you select it.  Maybe I missed something?

6).  I like the fact that you have thought of a gaming mode (not sure what this would do though) but given the target customer of predominantly active outdoor users ? Is the gaming mode only complicating the control procedure? It's almost like having too many options. Confusion for me here. Simple is better I think

6).  An on/off control would be good - I want to know if the ear buds are on and in addition I like to know if I have turned them off to select another bluetooth option for my audio output or simply save power when I take them off and am away from the charger unit.

6) Sound quality - brilliant. Bass was excellent. The improved fit really helps channel the audio into your ear with less ambient noise leakage. Really enjoyed the audio.

All in all a fantastic advancement on Gen 2 and I don't really want to send the prototype back !  Well done.  You have a definite customer here.