Issue with ANC (AirPods Pro 2) While String Trimming

[sleven]

Hey all,

I suspect I’m not the only one, but I haven’t found much discussion outside of a single 2022 firmware thread mentioning that the AirPods Pro 2 may struggle with ANC during lawn work.

This summer, I’ve been using the APP2s instead of my Sony WH-1000XM3s (the Sonys get too hot). I bought the APP2s during July’s Prime Day, and soon noticed a problem: whenever I use a string trimmer near a hard surface (like concrete or fencing), I get a harsh clicking/popping noise through the earbuds. It doesn’t happen in grass, only when the trimmer string hits a solid surface.

I never had this issue with the original AirPods Pro. With mowing, the ANC works fine—though I’m not sure it feels like much of an upgrade over the first-gen APPs (I traded mine in, so I can’t directly compare).

I was hoping a firmware update might fix it, but the problem persists. Has anyone else experienced this popping/cracking sound while string trimming with the APP2s?

 

[ayephoner]

I think I have the original Pros, but I've noticed that ANC isn't as good now as it was a few months ago while mowing my grass. I don't hear any popping or cracking though.

 

[Andy_2341]

I've noticed the same thing. And if course, higher pitched noises like the wind noise from the string are louder too. It's honestly the only major downfall I've found.

 

[Just_Kevin]

I have the same thing happen.

 

[sleven]

I'm a bit bummed out as I bought the 2's in July thinking the 3's would be a year off; now I'm wondering if the 3s would solve the problem but there is no decent place to offload the 2s to recoup my cost. Guess I'll stick with them until the batteries don't hold a charge and upgrade.

edit: or, maybe apple will provide a firmware update that addresses how ANC calculates. I know this specific case is not as common as air/road travel; I just wish somehow this was tested before it was rolled out. Today when trimming I will test it with ANC off and see how it operates.

 

[doolar]

The NC goes bananas when I use them next to my induction stove top 🤣 it’s a metallic screeching noise. No soup for me!

 

[r-m]

I find my APP2 perform better using adaptive mode rather than ANC whilst strimming.
Can't remember if I get the pops on ANC, but I don't think I get them on Adaptive. It's always impressed me how well it works.

 

[sleven]

I find my APP2 perform better using adaptive mode rather than ANC whilst strimming.
Can't remember if I get the pops on ANC, but I don't think I get them on Adaptive. It's always impressed me how well it works.

Thank you r-m; I'll give this a try next time.