Skullcandy Crusher EVO: Review

Listeners have grown to expect headphones and speakers to reproduce the same bass level as many of today’s most popular musical genres. Although many well-known companies offer bass-enhanced headphones in the low- to moderate-price category, no one has gone as far as Skullcandy. One thing that sets the Crusher headphones apart is their sensory bass, which can be adjusted with a slider to give you as much or as little low-end thud and ferocity as you like.

In 2019, I reviewed the Skullcandy Crusher ANC and found its unique method of adjusting bass impressive. On the downside, it had an initial price tag of Rs. 27,999 and had middling ANC performance. The Crusher Evo, a new product from Skullcandy, features the same sensory bass customization as its predecessor but at a more wallet-friendly price of Rs. 13,999. What are your thoughts on these headphones, precisely their bass response?

Read our analysis to find out!

Skullcandy Crusher EVO Specifications

PROS

• Crazy low end
• Superb audio quality all around
• Powerful batteries at a reasonable price

CONS

• Sometimes, the bass is just too much.
• No ANC

Structure and Function

Usually, I wouldn’t begin a review of headphones with a discussion of sound quality, but given that the bass slider is the primary selling point of these headphones, I figured it made sense to do so here. These are around-ear headphones, my go-to headphones because they don’t “crush” (haha) my ears.

The cup cushions don’t bother my glasses and are soft enough to wear for long periods. While the band’s cushioning is denser than the cups’, it’s still gentle enough that I can wear it even when my head is bare. A padded band is necessary without any preexisting padding on your head.

Bass

There are no claims that the Skullcandy Crusher Evo is tailored for high-resolution audio or designed for audiophiles. Instead, you’re looking at a mid-tier wireless headset focusing primarily on bass. The bass can be adjusted with the slider from mild, in keeping with the headphones’ basic tune, to a level at which the headphones begin to shake. Right off the bat, let me say that the maximum volume is excessive.

Even the most ardent fans of low-end sound will find it too forceful and distracting. With the bass slider adjusted to around 20%, these headphones have significantly more punch and attack than their competitors. At this volume, the bass doesn’t sound like it’s competing with the mids and highs; instead, it sounds like a dedicated subwoofer is producing it.

Comfort

The Crusher Evos from Skullcandy is reasonably cozy. They don’t weigh a tonne, and the headband doesn’t squeeze your noggin. The headband and ear cup cushioning are also quite soft and comfortable. Like the Skullcandy Crusher 360 Wireless, they have a relaxed, secure fit. However, with prolonged use, they may become hot to the touch.

Controls

The in-ear monitors can be adjusted adequately. The headphones have an on/off switch and a button to start pairing. The volume controls double as play/pause buttons when held down. The central button controls the audio playback and answering of calls. The audio and haptic bass may both be adjusted with the help of a slider. The buttons have a satisfying click, and they also provide audible feedback.

Build Quality

The Crusher Evos from Skullcandy are well-made. They’re primarily plastic, but the ear cups and headband are padded with faux leather, silicone, and fabric. The hinges are a potential weak point, but they feel sturdy and durable otherwise.

Verdict

The Skullcandy Crusher Evo is about as far as you can go from wireless headphones designed for audiophiles, but that’s not always bad. These headphones are designed for bass fans who like the on-the-fly bass adjustments. The music has plenty of energy and drives at moderate volumes without the muddy or overbearing bass. The Evo is competitively priced compared to the pricey Skullcandy Crusher ANC.

The Skullcandy Crusher Evo’s strengths are not limited to its above-average bass punch; it has a sleek design and a long battery life. While the Skullcandy Crusher Evo is a good pair of headphones for the price, you may want to look into Sony’s WH-CH710N or WH-XB900N if you’re after something more balanced or detailed. Both models also feature active noise cancellation, absent from the Skullcandy Crusher Evo.