Skullcandy has launched the Crusher 1080 ANC, marking the first time a third-party brand has integrated proprietary Bose audio technologies. Available now for 2,800 SEK, the headphones feature Bose QuietControl noise cancellation, TrueSpatial audio with head tracking, and the WaveForm Audio Engine.
The Integration of Bose Technology into Skullcandy Hardware
According to Skullcandy, these are the company’s best-sounding headphones to date.
Did you know?
The “1080” in the product name refers to a high-difficulty skateboard trick involving three full rotations, mirroring the brand’s continued focus on action sports culture.
Technical Specifications and Battery Performance
Beyond the Bose-engineered features, the Crusher 1080 ANC focuses on long-duration usability. Skullcandy reports a battery life of 60 hours with active noise cancellation (ANC) disabled, dropping to 50 hours when the feature is engaged. The headphones utilize a 5-band equalizer accessible via the Skullcandy app, allowing users to move beyond the default sound profiles.
A physical slider on the ear cup continues the legacy of the Crusher series’ adjustable bass, though it has been refined for better tactile feedback. This design choice highlights the brand’s intent to maintain its signature low-end performance while utilizing Bose’s digital signal processing to balance the overall audio output.
Market Positioning and Competitive Pricing
For comparison, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones—which contain the foundational technology now present in the Skullcandy model—typically carry a higher price point.
Comparison: Feature Availability
- Bose QuietControl ANC: Now available on Skullcandy Crusher 1080 ANC.
- TrueSpatial Audio: Features head-tracking for surround-sound simulation.
- WaveForm Audio Engine: Provides real-time digital signal processing.
- SpeechClarity: A new addition for Skullcandy, designed to optimize microphone performance during calls.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are the Crusher 1080 ANC headphones the same as Bose headphones?
- No. While they utilize three specific Bose-developed technologies, the hardware, design, and physical bass-adjustment features are proprietary to Skullcandy.
- How does the battery life compare to other premium models?
- The 50-60 hour battery life is significantly higher than many industry-standard premium headphones, which often average between 30 and 40 hours.
- Can I use the Skull-IQ app with these headphones?
- No, the Crusher 1080 ANC uses the standard Skullcandy app for equalizer settings, rather than the Skull-IQ platform used for some of the company’s other earbuds.
Are you interested in how these new features impact your listening experience? Share your thoughts in the comments or check out our latest reviews on the latest noise-canceling technology to see how these stack up against the competition.
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