Cleer Audio is taking another run at the open-ear category with its latest true wireless earbuds, the ARC 5, a product that leans heavily on spatial audio and feature density to stand out in a still-niche segment.
“ARC 5 represents a major leap forward in open-ear audio,” said Hideaki Yamaguchi (Yama), CEO of Cleer Audio Americas. “By combining THX® Certification and THX® Spatial Audio with improved ergonomic design, a thinner hook, lighter weight, an HD Touchscreen Smart Case, and so many advanced features, we’ve created earbuds that deliver immersive cinematic audio, unmatched comfort, and exceptional value—all while keeping users aware of their surroundings.”
At the center of the pitch is sound. The ARC 5 carries THX certification and supports spatial audio processing alongside Dolby Atmos optimization. Head tracking is also onboard, allowing audio to shift with subtle head movements—an attempt to replicate a more immersive, speaker-like experience. It’s an ambitious approach for open-ear earbuds, which traditionally sacrifice depth and bass response in favor of situational awareness.
Cleer is also tapping Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Sound platform with aptX Lossless support, aiming to close the gap between wireless convenience and higher-resolution playback. On paper, it’s a strong spec sheet, though real-world performance will depend heavily on fit and environment—two variables that continue to define the open-ear experience.
Design updates are more straightforward. The ARC 5 trims weight down to 11.5 grams per earbud and refines its ear-hook design to reduce pressure during longer listening sessions. Open-ear models live or die by comfort, particularly for users wearing them through workouts or extended commutes, and Cleer appears to be iterating in the right direction.
Where the ARC 5 gets more experimental is with its case. The included charging case features an AMOLED touchscreen that handles playback controls, EQ adjustments, and battery monitoring. It also adds UV-C sterilization, a feature that has surfaced sporadically across accessories but hasn’t yet found a clear mainstream foothold.
Battery life is another headline number: up to 60 hours total with the case, along with fast charging that delivers a couple of hours of playback in minutes. The earbuds are rated IPX7 for water resistance and include dual ENC microphones for calls.
Available in Black and White for $219.99 USD, the new ARC 5 Open-Ear Earbuds are now available at CleerAudio.com and authorized U.S. dealers.
See also: Cleer Audio Names Lang Lang As Global Ambassador For Master Sound Quality
