iPhone 16 series continues to impress with its exciting new features, but one standout capability of the latest high-end model has remained largely under the radar. This feature, which is used frequently, showcases Apple’s excellence in audio engineering with the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
Recently, while testing the new OnePlus 13 and several other flagship smartphones, I stumbled upon this remarkable quality, and a side-by-side comparison made it even more evident.
Unveiling the Secret of iPhone 16 Pro Max
The iPhone 16 Pro Max shines in an unexpected area: the exceptional quality of its loudspeaker!
This isn’t just a minor edge that only audiophiles can discern. Just yesterday, while streaming Narcos Mexico's theme song (Rodrigo Amarante - Tuyo) on different devices in the office, I noticed that the iPhone immediately attracted attention.
People who were preoccupied with their tasks were suddenly drawn in by the rich sound coming from the device.
It was a moment of surprise, not just for its volume but for the incredible clarity and control that accompanied it.
To really validate the sound quality claim, I put the iPhone against several other devices.
A Rock Solid Performance
I began with a classic choice for loudspeaker testing: "So Far Away" by Avenged Sevenfold. The track showcases melody and power in its purest form.
Hearing it on the Galaxy S24 Ultra revealed a rather flat sound, lacking the thump of the drums necessary to carry the emotional depth of the song.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL could generate louder sound but became abrasive at max volume, making high notes unpleasant.
The OnePlus 13 was more balanced than both, offering a decent mix of lows, mids, and highs. However, the iPhone 16 Pro Max surpassed it effortlessly, controlling treble and delivering a richer, fuller soundscape that is enjoyable at full blast.
Mastering the Classics
When it came to the iconic track by Linkin Park, "In the End", the complexity of the drums presented an audio challenge.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL struggled severely, creating an unbearable listening experience that forced the volume down, completely losing the depth of the lows.
The OnePlus 13 produced a boomier sound compared to the Galaxy S24 Ultra, which managed to maintain some vocal clarity despite a notable hiss. The emotional weight of key moments was lost on both devices.
Moreover, the iPhone 16 Pro Max performed best here as well, exhibiting clearer vocals and more control, making it the superior choice for experiencing music authentically.
The Technical Edge
Apple has recently opened its state-of-the-art Audio Lab for press visits. The equipment may resemble that of other smartphone manufacturers, yet what sets it apart is Apple’s unique approach to sound testing. Actual auditory feedback from people is prioritized over purely automated processes.
This human-centric tuning methodology results in a listening experience that resonates with consumers, as my evaluations have confirmed.
Nostalgia for Robust Sound
Remember the days when smartphones were renowned for their audio capabilities? Devices like the Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate delivered exemplary sound quality that few can approach today.
Moreover, the JBL Sound Boost Moto Mod was revolutionary, transforming the Moto Z into a compact speaker, allowing audiophiles to enjoy superior sound quality on a smartphone.
As we anticipate exciting new releases in the coming years, the iPhone 16 Pro Max solidifies itself as the current champion of smartphone loudspeakers, proving that sound quality matters and can make all the difference in auditory enjoyment.
