Bluetooth has taken the wireless speaker and headphone market by storm, so it can be easy to miss new releases featuring Kleer technology. But if you happen to appreciate wireless audio that doesn’t compromise, then you’ll want to start paying more attention to Kleer. Kleer (also recognized as KleerNet) is a proprietary wireless technology that operates in the 2.4 GHz, 5.2 GHz, and 5.8 GHz ranges, and can stream 16-bit / 44.1 kHz audio. Users can enjoy CD/DVD quality audio from up to 328 ft (100 m) with added perks.
Kleer Versus Bluetooth
Despite Bluetooth’s recent improvements, Kleer maintains a technological advantage with its low bandwidth use, low latency of sound, high resistance to wireless interference, ultra-low power consumption (better battery life by 8-10 times more, reportedly), and ability to support up to four Kleer-enabled devices through a sole transmitter. That last feature is particularly ideal for those interested in creating robust, brand-agnostic home theater systems and whole-home audio without the hassle of wires. Multiple listeners can enjoy the same movie through Kleer headphones, or different rooms can have Kleer speakers streaming from a single music source. Since products using Kleer technology are compatible and interoperable with each other, users aren’t captive to a brand’s ecosystem (e.g., Sonos). Although quite powerful in its own right, Kleer remains more of an unknown outside of audiophile, enthusiast, or home theater circles. Unlike Bluetooth, which permeates personal audio and mobile markets, using Kleer quite often requires a compatible transmitter/adapter. Smartphones and tablets are prized for their portability, so the average consumer is less inclined to deal with a dongle to stream CD-quality music to a set of Kleer headphones. As such, the options for purchasing Kleer-enabled headphones, speakers, or systems pale compared to that of Bluetooth. It might change if and when manufacturers choose to integrate Kleer technology into hardware as they have with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Those who wish to delve into and experience the world of wireless-streaming Hi-Fi audio through Kleer do have some options. Products are available from a list of reputable companies such as (but not limited to): Sennheiser, TDK (we’ve previously reviewed the TDK WR-700 Wireless Headphones), AKG, RCA, Focal, Sleek Audio, DigiFi, and SMS Audio.
