Review: Repeat.audio delivers sustainable and innovative headphones

A mission rooted in sustainability

Repeat.audio has built a reputation for its innovative approach to reducing electronic waste. The company is committed to producing high-quality audio equipment with minimal environmental impact. Central to its mission is the use of recycled materials and a modular design, which allows consumers to replace or upgrade parts easily, significantly extending the product’s lifespan.

Currently, Repeat.audio offers three models: the Prince (€269), the Boss (€179), and the Day (€119). In addition to offering free repairs, the company provides spare parts that can be purchased for self-repair. The free repair option covers all headphones, with prices ranging from €99 for the most expensive model to €49 for the more affordable ones. This model aligns perfectly with the growing trend of "right-to-repair" and reduces the need to replace entire devices when only small components break down.

Sustainable packaging: small but mighty

One of the most striking features of Repeat.audio’s approach is their minimalistic, sustainable packaging. The packaging has been meticulously designed to fit through a standard mailbox, reducing shipping costs and minimizing environmental impact by avoiding unnecessary air transportation.

Upon receiving the package, customers are required to assemble the headphones themselves. While this might sound daunting to some, the process is incredibly simple and straightforward, requiring no technical expertise. This design decision not only contributes to sustainability but also aligns with the modular nature of the headphones. Should any component suffer damage, users can order a free replacement module, which arrives in one to two days. The replacement is equally easy to install, and the damaged part can be sent back in a pre-paid envelope for recycling.

This system significantly reduces waste by allowing Repeat.audio to reuse old components and materials, making it a standout example of sustainability in the consumer electronics space.

Inside the box: thoughtful design

The attention to detail doesn’t stop at the packaging. Upon opening the box, consumers are greeted with a thoughtfully arranged interior. The quick-start guide is printed directly on the inside of the packaging, reducing the need for additional printed materials. All the necessary modules are neatly arranged in protective foam, making it easy for users to identify and assemble each part.

Modular design: built to last

A key feature that sets Repeat.audio apart from its competitors is its modular design. Each component of the headphones can be easily removed and replaced, meaning that a small malfunction does not render the entire device useless. This is a refreshing departure from the typical "planned obsolescence" model that many consumer electronics companies still adhere to.

Aside from Fairphone’s earbuds, there are few headphones on the market that take modularity as seriously as Repeat.audio does. However, other manufacturers are starting to take notice. For example, B&O recently introduced the Beoplay H100, which also features replaceable batteries, cushions, and headbands. However this is with a price tag of € 1,499 not really an alternative. It seems that Repeat.audio is leading the way in creating more sustainable, modular audio devices, with other brands beginning to follow their example.

Performance: digital active noise cancelling and real-world use

The flagship model, the Prince, boasts one of the most powerful digital active noise-cancelling (ANC) systems currently available. This feature effectively blocks out ambient noise, allowing users to immerse themselves in high-fidelity audio. Whether you’re listening to your favorite tracks or taking part in a virtual meeting, the Prince delivers sharp, clear sound with a carefully tuned acoustic profile that offers deep bass, warm mids, and crisp highs.

We put the headphones to the test in a real-world scenario: a noisy airport. During a crowded moment, we used the Prince headphones for a Teams meeting and were genuinely impressed by their performance. Despite the hustle and bustle of the terminal, we were able to focus entirely on the conversation without being distracted by background noise. Other participants also commented on how little ambient sound was transmitted through the microphone, further enhancing the overall experience.

In terms of audio quality, the Prince delivers exceptional playback, making it an excellent choice for both casual listeners and audiophiles.

Battery life: power that lasts

One of the Prince’s standout features is its impressive battery life. With up to 40 hours of use on a single charge—or 22 hours with noise-cancelling activated—the Prince offers plenty of power for extended listening sessions. And if you do run out of battery, a quick five-minute charge provides two additional hours of listening time.

The headphones also come equipped with the most advanced Qualcomm chipset, allowing you to connect your smartphone and laptop simultaneously. If a phone call comes in while you’re listening to music or on a video conference, the Prince automatically switches to the correct device, ensuring a seamless user experience.

Conclusion: a new standard for sustainable audio

The collaboration between Repeat.audio and Pieter Pot is a bold step toward integrating sustainability into consumer electronics. By focusing on reducing electronic waste through modular design, offering durable packaging, and enabling users to repair their own headphones, Repeat.audio is setting a new standard for the industry.

The Prince headphones, with their advanced noise-cancelling technology and excellent sound quality, are not only eco-friendly but also highly functional in real-world situations. With the combination of long battery life, ease of repair, and a user-friendly modular design, these headphones are a trendsetter in the market and offer a compelling solution for eco-conscious consumers.