Another reason the AirPods Pro sound better is because of a feature Apple called Adaptive EQ. Like noise cancellation, Adaptive EQ also puts that inward-facing microphone to use and adjusts the lows and mids based on your specific ear shape, similar to how the HomePod’s microphones are used to tune its output to the layout of your room. If you turn off noise cancellation, Adaptive EQ shuts off with it, and you can tell a subtle difference. It makes the AirPods Pro feel a little more full and better suited for a wide mix of music styles