Creative Aurvana Ace 3 – New true wireless earbuds review

With the Aurvana Ace 3, Creative has chosen a clear path: not to revolutionize what already worked great, but to consolidate and improve. And it's a choice that, at least in terms of audio performance, could be spectacular. Below is our review developed over 15 days of use.

Audio that captures attention

These earbuds reprise the hybrid architecture that made the previous model remarkable, with refinements aimed at making listening even more immersive. In fact, these earbuds combine 2 different acoustic technologies: on one side, there's the tiny xMEMS driver that functions like a chip and allows for frequency reproduction with great speed and detail; on the other, there's a more traditional 10mm dynamic driver, which is responsible for giving body and depth, especially to the bass. The combination of these two solutions allows for a more balanced and natural audio compared to normal earbuds that use only one type of speaker.

In addition to the earbuds and case, an elegant velvet pouch for storing the unit, a USB-C cable for charging, and an additional 4 sets of ear tips in different sizes (large and small) for the best fit are included.

Those who have listened to the Ace 2 already know what to expect: a lively, clean sound, with a naturalness rarely found in the mid-range. The Ace 3 maintains this identity and improves upon it. Vocals are clear and well-centered, instruments "breathe" without overlapping, and detail remains constant even at high volumes. Tracks with wide dynamics like Michael Jackson's Human Nature, Daft Punk's Give Life Back to Music, or complex pieces like Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 with contrasts between pianissimo and fortissimo, emerge with remarkable timbral richness.

The arrival of LDAC and aptX Lossless support significantly improves listening with high-resolution services, provided you have compatible hardware. The overall feeling is that these are earbuds primarily designed for those who prioritize sound quality. Declared frequency response is 5–40,000 Hz.

Sound customization that makes a difference

Among the most successful choices is the integration of the Mimi audiometric test. In a few minutes, the earbuds create a personalized profile that adapts the sound to the listener's characteristics. This is not just a simple equalizer, but an optimization of sound perception, and the effect is evident especially for those with uneven sensitivity across different frequencies. The stems weigh 4.7 grams each, but due to their shape and wearability, they can be used for extended periods without discomfort; the case weighs 43 grams.

ANC and ambient mode: lights and shadows

Where there is still room for further improvement is in the environmental noise management. The ANC only reduces a portion of external sounds and doesn't manage to create the "bubble" of superior isolation found in more advanced earbuds in this category.

The transparency mode alternates between good performance and moments of inferior rendering. The amplification is at times excessive and unnatural, and an old problem returns: a sudden, sharp hiss can be heard. This happened with the Ace 2 and unfortunately has not been completely resolved. It's a shame because it can become annoying in daily use, especially for those who often move in noisy environments.

Battery life: a generational leap

Creative has hit the mark in power management. The Ace 3 extends battery life to 7 hours of continuous playback (compared to 4 hours for the previous model), reaching a total of 26 hours with the charging case. These are not record-breaking numbers, but they represent a significant increase that makes the experience much more practical. From this point of view, they can easily last for a couple of days of use before needing a recharge.

The charging port, unfortunately, is located on the bottom side, flanked by an LED that indicates the charging status by color, with a button for pairing a new device. For the first pairing, it is sufficient to remove the adhesive protection from the stems, thereby activating the base, and search for "Aurvana Ace 3" in the list of possible Bluetooth connections (version 5.4).

Refined design and assured comfort

The aesthetic language remains faithful to the line: sober, elegant, with that soft purple finish that identifies the series. Their light weight makes them comfortable even for long sessions, and the IPX5 certification protects them during workouts and outdoor activities. They don't achieve the robustness of top models like the AirPods Pro 3 (IP57), but for most users, it will be more than sufficient.

Improved touch controls, with a learning curve

Creative has rethought the sensitivity of the touch controls, making them more reliable than the Ace 2. However, the absence of a single-tap gesture forces the use of more precise combinations, based on double/triple taps on the stems. The exception is the tap for at least 2 seconds on the right side to increase volume, and on the left to decrease it.

Double tap on the left activates/deactivates ANC and ambient listening. More generally, those coming from other models might find this choice a bit cumbersome in the first hours of use. Using a single stem is not ambivalent: wearing the right one does not allow control over ANC and the voice assistant, and with the left one, play/pause and next track are not available (the previous track command is missing).

A product for those who know what they want

The Aurvana Ace 3 are true wireless earbuds where sound is the absolute protagonist. For those who listen to high-quality music, for those who seek naturalness, and love to catch more vocal or instrumental nuances, these earbuds represent a very interesting proposition. Especially in non-chaotic environments.

They also offer a mix of unexpected virtues: good battery life, advanced customization, water resistance, and a refined design. However, when needing more effective isolation on public transport or in crowded environments, their limitations become apparent, occasional hissing in ambient mode aside. Available on the Creative website at a discounted price of €119.99.