I'd like to use my AirPod Pro 2, instead of headphones, for some recording tasks. My tinnitus is so severe that headphones are unbearable after 10 minutes.

The simplest way seems to be using a 'bluetooth adaptor for headphone jack' and plugging it into my Komplete Audio 6 headphone-out. But I'm concerned that the adaptor will be the weak link in regards to sound quality.

Anyone have any suggestions?

Gear: Windows 11 PC, Komplete Audio 6 interface, Reaper

 

I have used the Insignia branded Bluetooth usb micro adapters for years, if you do need to buy one. Not the way you are going to, but data is data. They are 15 bucks at bestbuy, etc. I've tested a good number of such adapters and they are cheap, decent and durable. I'm using 2 of them right now from about 2017. iirc they are made by Broadcom anyway.

 

I'm curious what the latency is like...? I always thought for recording, Bluetooth would be a drag. Was I wrong in thinking that?

 

You could consider using a tinnitus masker for a while. They don't work miracles, but they do alleviate the illness somewhat.

Tinnitus Masker and Relief App

Tinnitus Masker is an easy to use tinnitus app that allows you to create the most common symptoms of tinnitus and incorporate them into your own sound.

Mix your own sound to relax and sleep
- Tinnitus symptom customization - Tinnitus frequency finder

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.BurotecLimited.TinnitusMasker&hl=de

 

That's what I was thinking. I read somewhere that Air Pods Pro 2 have about 125 ms of latency. That's unusable for any serious recording (live monitoring) task.

Edit: The fastest Bluetooth solution would be Qualcomms aptx low latency with about 40 ms delay, which is still too slow for live monitoring. But all Apple Air Pods just work with AAC over Bluetooth, so aptx low latency is not even an option.

 

Last edited: Jan 8, 2025

Yeah. I guess if headphones are really a problem for OP, the Airpods could be used in a mixing situation. But it certainly wouldn't fit a recording workflow.

 

Using AirPods Pro 2 for monitoring can work, but Bluetooth introduces latency, which makes them unsuitable for real-time recording. Even with a Bluetooth adapter plugged into your Komplete Audio 6, the delay will likely be noticeable. For tasks like mixing or playback, it’s manageable, but not ideal for tracking. If you’re set on using AirPods, try routing output through your PC’s Bluetooth instead, though that may also reduce quality. Unfortunately, for professional use, wired solutions still offer the best reliability and performance.

 

As someone who owns both AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Max - as others have noted, the bluetooth connection will introduce enough latency that it'll render them unusable for monitoring while tracking. I can't speak for the Windows side, but on Mac, the latency over Bluetooth is about 100-125ms.

you can defo use em for mixing, but if you're intending to track with them, they're really not gonna work out for you.

I do use my AirPods Max for tracking though, but only bc the usb-c version (which are the ones I have) got a firmware update, so when you use them wired via a usb-c cable, they switch to a low latency, lossless mode. I get 12ms in Ableton/Cubase, and have found them to be great for tracking (esp with vocals, cos I can turn transparency mode on, so my voice isn't quite so 'in my head').

But obvs, AirPods Max wouldn't really be a workable option for you, given your tinnitus discomfort.

The Pro 2's are actually pretty great for mixing on the go etc, and as a reference, but the bluetooth latency will rule out playing/singing anything live through them.

 

You should also consider the fact that Bluetooth emits MICROWAVE RADIATION, just like a cellphone, so it's not really good for you and your brain.

 

I would try using the original wired ear pods. Sometimes simpler is better.