H2O Audio Sonar 2 Pro Review - Your Underwater Soundtrack

For swimmers looking to make their laps more engaging, waterproof headphones are a game-changer. The challenge has always been finding a pair that delivers quality sound, a secure fit, and true underwater reliability. H2O Audio, a brand specializing in aquatic audio gear, aims to solve this with the Sonar 2 Pro, a bone conduction headset designed specifically for swimmers.

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This review offers a comprehensive look at the H2O Audio Sonar 2 Pro. We will examine its core features, discuss its performance in the water, highlight what makes it a strong contender, and point out areas where there is room for improvement. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of whether this device is the right training partner for your aquatic workouts.

Product Features

The Sonar 2 Pro is built with a specific purpose in mind: delivering audio to swimmers without compromise. Its design and feature set reflect this singular focus.

Bone Conduction Technology

Unlike traditional earbuds that sit inside your ear canal, the Sonar 2 Pro uses bone conduction. The headset rests on your cheekbones, transmitting sound vibrations directly to your inner ear. This open-ear design is particularly useful for swimming, as it leaves your ears open and avoids the issue of waterlogged earbuds distorting or blocking sound. It also enhances situational awareness, allowing you to hear coaches or other swimmers.

Integrated MP3 Player & Bluetooth

Versatility is a key component of the Sonar 2 Pro. It features a built-in 32 GB MP3 player, capable of holding approximately 8,000 songs. This allows you to pre-load your favorite playlists, podcasts, or audiobooks and enjoy them completely untethered from another device. This is the primary mode for underwater use, as Bluetooth signals do not travel well through water.

For use outside the pool, the headset also includes Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity. You can pair it with your smartphone, smartwatch, or other devices to stream audio wirelessly. This dual-mode functionality makes it a versatile option for multi-sport athletes who might go from a swim to a run or bike ride.

IPX8 Waterproof Rating

An IPX8 rating is essential for any device intended for submersion. The Sonar 2 Pro is certified to be waterproof up to 12 feet (3.6 meters). This robust protection ensures it can handle the rigors of lap swimming, open-water training, and other water sports without risk of damage. The design integrates the charging port and controls into a sealed unit, minimizing points of potential water entry.

Secure Goggle Integration

Fit is crucial for swimming headphones. The Sonar 2 Pro features a two-piece design with integrated clips that attach directly to your goggle straps. This system secures the headset firmly against your cheekbones, preventing it from shifting or falling off during flip turns, fast sprints, or in choppy water. The placement ensures consistent contact for clear audio transmission.

These are AMAZING! Really clear audio. Took a bit to get it clipped in properly, but once they were in, no issues. I couldn't even tell I had them on after a while.

What We Liked

After extensive testing, several aspects of the Sonar 2 Pro stood out as significant advantages for swimmers.

Excellent Underwater Audio Quality

The primary function of swimming headphones is to deliver clear sound underwater, and this is where the Sonar 2 Pro excels. The bone conduction technology provides a surprisingly rich and full audio experience once you are in the water. Bass tones, which can sound thin on land with bone conduction, become more pronounced and vibrant underwater. Vocals in podcasts and music lyrics remain clear and easy to understand, turning a monotonous lap session into an immersive experience.

Reliable and Secure Fit

The goggle-clip system is simple yet highly effective. The headset stays locked in place without requiring constant readjustment. During vigorous workouts, including flip turns and different strokes, the Sonar 2 Pro remained securely positioned. This stability is a major benefit, as it allows you to focus completely on your swimming form and performance rather than fiddling with your equipment.

The Freedom of a Built-In MP3 Player

The integrated 32 GB MP3 player is the product's strongest feature. The ability to load music and podcasts directly onto the device eliminates the unreliability of Bluetooth in the water. Transferring files is straightforward—the device mounts as a USB drive when connected to a computer, allowing for simple drag-and-drop file management. This standalone functionality provides a seamless and interruption-free listening experience during your entire swim.

Areas of Improvement

While the Sonar 2 Pro performs well, it is not without its limitations. There are a few areas where future iterations could see enhancements.

 

On-Device Controls Could Be More Intuitive

The headset features physical buttons (which we love) to manage power, volume, track skipping, and mode switching between MP3 and Bluetooth. While the tactile feedback is helpful, the button functions can feel clunky. Remembering the correct combination of short and long presses to execute specific commands takes some getting used to. A more intuitive control scheme or clearer differentiation between the buttons would improve the user experience, especially when making adjustments mid-workout.

Wrap Up

The H2O Audio Sonar 2 Pro is a purpose-built device that successfully addresses the core needs of a swimmer. Its excellent underwater sound, secure fit, and the freedom of a high-capacity MP3 player make it a top-tier choice for anyone serious about adding audio to their aquatic training. It transforms swimming from a solitary activity into a more motivating and enjoyable experience.

While the on-device controls could be more refined and its on-land audio is secondary to its in-water performance, these are minor drawbacks in an otherwise outstanding product. It delivers on its promise of providing a reliable and high-quality soundtrack for your swims.

The H2O Audio Sonar 2 Pro is priced at $149.99. For dedicated swimmers who spend hours in the pool each week, the investment is justified by its specialized design and dependable performance where it matters most—underwater.