Category: Audio

May 31, 2025
Soundcore Boom 3i: Swimproof Bluetooth Speaker with 16-Hour Battery
Key Takeaways
1. Rugged Design: The Soundcore Boom 3i is built for outdoor use with IP68 dust and water resistance and can survive drops from up to one meter.
2. Compact and Portable: Its dimensions (210 x 85 x 78.5 mm) and included strap make it easy to transport.
3. Impressive Sound Quality: The speaker has a peak output of 50 watts, reaches volumes of up to 96 dB, and features BassUp 2.0 for enhanced bass.
4. Advanced Features: The accompanying app includes message recording, playback, and a function to remove dust and dirt.
5. Long Battery Life: The speaker offers up to 16 hours of battery life, suitable for extended outdoor activities.
Anker has a broad selection of mobile Bluetooth speakers available through Amazon, and they have just added the Soundcore Anker Boom 3i to their lineup. This new model is currently featured on Anker’s official site for $189.99, and you can save an additional $40 at checkout.
Rugged Design for Outdoor Use
The Soundcore Boom 3i is marketed as a durable speaker, built for outdoor adventures, and it meets the IP68 standard, which means it’s resistant to dust and can handle salt water. It is also claimed to endure drops from heights up to one meter without any harm. With dimensions of 210 x 85 x 78.5 millimeters, this speaker is designed for easy transport, especially with the handy strap that comes with it.
Impressive Sound Quality
The speaker boasts a specified output of 50 watts, likely referring to its peak sound capacity, and can reach volume levels of up to 96 dB. The BassUp 2.0 feature is highlighted for its powerful bass, while also delivering a clear and balanced audio experience, particularly when the feature is turned off. You can even link two of these speakers together for a true stereo experience.
Advanced Features and Long Battery Life
The accompanying app offers various features, including the ability to record and playback messages, and it has a unique function aimed at shaking off dust and dirt. The speaker is said to have a battery life of 16 hours, which should provide ample entertainment for a camping trip that lasts multiple days.
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Tags: Anker, Bluetooth Speaker, Soundcore Boom 3i
May 31, 2025
iFixit Teardown: Sony WH-1000XM6 Easy Repair Insights
Key Takeaways
1. The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones feature a new metal hinge for improved sturdiness compared to the previous model.
2. Ear pads are secured with clips, allowing for easy removal without tools.
3. Accessing the internal components requires only five screws and one plug disconnection.
4. The battery can be replaced easily with just two screws, avoiding the use of glue.
5. Sony does not sell spare parts, so users may need to source replacements from another set of WH-1000XM6 headphones.
The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are claimed to be much sturdier than the previous model. This is mainly due to a new metal hinge replacing the often faulty one in the last version. However, even the toughest Bluetooth headphones will eventually need a battery replacement, which can be quite tricky for many models.
Easy Repairs Inside
Recently, iFixit managed to take apart these over-ear headphones and discovered several unexpected improvements that simplify repairs. Instead of magnets, the ear pads are secured with clips, making them easy to remove without any tools. To get inside each ear cup, one only needs to unscrew five screws and disconnect one plug. The driver can then be taken out of its housing by simply unplugging the cable, allowing for a quick replacement in just a few minutes.
Convenient Battery Access
Even more interesting is that the 3.99 Wh battery in the right ear cup is fixed to the housing with merely two screws, rather than glue. This design not only makes battery removal easier but also allows for simple reattachment without needing to apply glue again. Additionally, components like the mainboard, the 3.5 mm headphone jack, and the USB-C port can all be replaced with ease. Unfortunately, Sony does not provide spare parts for sale, leaving users with the option of using parts from another set of WH-1000XM6 headphones.
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Tags: headphone repair, iFixit, Sony WH-1000XM6
May 31, 2025
MorningBlues VWS Headphones: Touchscreen, 60-Hour Battery Life
Key Takeaways
1. Non-Foldable Design and Comfort: The MorningBlues VWS headphones feature a non-foldable design with memory foam ear cushions for enhanced comfort during long listening sessions.
2. Detachable Touchscreen Display: These headphones come with a 2.2-inch detachable touchscreen on both sides for displaying images, controlling music, and customizing settings through the MorningBlues app.
3. Noise-Cancellation and Connectivity: They offer three modes of noise cancellation and can connect wirelessly via Bluetooth 5.4 or with a wired connection through a 3.5 mm audio port.
4. Long Battery Life and Dimensions: The headphones measure 6.2 x 8.1 x 3.5 inches, weigh approximately 308 grams, and provide up to 60 hours of battery life on a single charge without using the touchscreen.
5. Customization and Compatibility: Users can adjust EQ settings, screen brightness, and sound profiles through the companion app, and the headphones are compatible with various devices including smartphones and PCs.
The MorningBlues VWS headphones have just been launched. VWS stands for Visual Wearable Style. These headphones have a non-foldable design and come with memory foam ear cushions that mold to the shape of your ears, ensuring comfort during long listening sessions. With 40 mm sound drivers, MorningBlues claims these headphones provide an exceptional audio experience for those who love music.
Touchscreen Features
An interesting aspect of the MorningBlues VWS headphones is their detachable 2.2-inch touchscreen display on both sides. This feature lets you display pictures, GIFs, or videos. You can also control music and adjust brightness directly on the touchscreen. This allows for customization through the MorningBlues app, plus quick access to functions on the headphones’ built-in screen.
Noise-Cancellation and Connectivity
In addition, there are three modes of noise cancellation that help minimize background noise, which enhances your listening experience while traveling. The over-ear design includes six microphones that help ensure clear voice quality during phone calls. Regarding connectivity, the MorningBlues VWS headphones can connect wirelessly using Bluetooth 5.4 or through a wired connection with a 3.5 mm audio port.
Dimensions and Battery Life
The dimensions of the headphones are 6.2 x 8.1 x 3.5 inches (158 x 205 x 90 mm), and they weigh approximately 308 grams (0.68 lbs). MorningBlues asserts that these headphones can last up to 60 hours on a single charge, provided you’re not using the touchscreen. Additionally, they support codecs like AAC, SBC, APTX HD, and APTX Class, as well as Bluetooth multipoint, enabling connections to two devices at once.
Customization and Compatibility
Moreover, the MorningBlues VWS headphones offer various customization options such as EQ adjustments, screen brightness, and sound profiles through the MorningBlues companion app. They work seamlessly with smartphones, PCs, laptops, Xbox, tablets, and other audio-visual devices.
The headphones come in a sleek silver finish and are priced at $599. However, for a limited time, they are available at a launch discount of $449. This early bird offer runs from May 27th to June 10th. You can pre-order the MorningBlues VWS headphones through the official MorningBlues website.
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Tags: MorningBlues VWS, Noise Cancellation, Wireless Headphones
May 31, 2025
Sony WH-1000XM6 Review: Improved Repairability Over WH-1000XM5
Key Takeaways
1. The Sony WH-1000XM6 features 12 microphones, enhancing noise-cancelling capabilities but maintains the same battery life as the WH-1000XM5 at 30 hours.
2. The battery size has been reduced by 12.5%, from 4.56 Wh in the XM5 to 3.99 Wh in the XM6.
3. The design improvements include replacing adhesive tape with screws for better assembly and easier access to high-wear components.
4. The WH-1000XM6 is more repairable than its predecessor, but users cannot currently replace internal components due to the lack of available spare parts.
5. Sony has not released a repair manual or replacement parts for the WH-1000XM6 or its predecessor, the WH-1000XM5.
The Sony WH-1000XM6 (currently priced at $448 on Amazon) has been available for a few weeks now, having made its official entrance on May 15. This gave iFixit the chance to examine Sony’s newest over-ear wireless headphones and uncover their inner workings.
Microphone and Noise Cancelling Features
As anticipated, Sony has added four more microphones, bringing the total to twelve in the WH-1000XM6. While the company has enhanced noise-cancelling capabilities from previous models, the same cannot be said for battery life. Officially, the WH-1000XM6 is rated for 30 hours of use, which is the same as the WH-1000XM5, even though it features the new Processor QN3 technology. The reason for this seems to be that Sony has opted for a battery that is 12.5% smaller, decreasing from 4.56 Wh in the XM5 to 3.99 Wh in the XM6.
Improvements in Design
On the bright side, there are some commendable hardware upgrades between the two versions. For instance, Sony has swapped out the adhesive tape that secured the battery in the XM5s for two screws and a compact housing. Moreover, only five screws are used for each ear cup, which are also held in place by clips. Additionally, high-wear parts such as the 3.5 mm jack and USB Type-C cable are placed on modular boards, making them easier to access.
Repairability Concerns
In summary, the WH-1000XM6 is designed to be more repairable compared to its predecessor. However, users currently cannot replace any components inside these latest headphones if they happen to fail or break. At this time, Sony has not released a repair manual or begun selling replacement parts. To make matters worse, the WH-1000XM5 never saw the release of spare parts, even though a repair manual was listed by Sony. For more details, check out the video from iFixit below and our launch article on the WH-1000XM6.
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Tags: headphones, iFixit, Sony WH-1000XM6
May 30, 2025
Rokform G-ROK Pro Bluetooth Speaker: Golfers’ Magnetic Mount Solution
Key Takeaways
1. The G-Rok Pro Bluetooth speaker is priced at $199.99 and is available for purchase on the Rokform website and soon on Amazon.
2. It features a durable, waterproof design with an IPX7 rating and strong magnets for secure attachment to golf carts.
3. The speaker provides excellent sound quality with a 20-watt subwoofer, 10-watt tweeter, and the ability to connect up to 100 units for larger audio setups.
4. It has a long battery life of up to 24 hours on a single charge and can also function as a power bank to recharge smartphones.
5. The G-Rok Pro includes an SD card slot for local music playback without needing to connect to a smartphone.
Rokform has introduced the G-Rok Pro Bluetooth speaker tailored for golfers. It carries a price tag of $199.99. You can buy it directly from the Rokform website today, and it will soon be available at the Rokform store on Amazon.
Durable Design
This tough speaker is designed to be both dust and waterproof, boasting an IPX7 rating. Its powerful magnets, which have a pull force of 49 pounds, ensure that the G-Rok Pro can be securely attached to any golf cart, minimizing the risk of it falling while navigating across hazards and bunkers. For added stability, the speaker features a quarter-inch tripod socket and a variety of RokLock Twist Lock mounts. There’s also a handy removable carabiner for attaching the speaker to your golf bag.
Outstanding Sound Quality
The G-Rok Pro delivers impressive sound outdoors, thanks to its 20-watt subwoofer, 10-watt tweeter, and dual passive radiators. It can connect to any Bluetooth 5.2 audio device, and you can link up to 100 G-Rok Pro speakers together to amplify music for bigger events. Additionally, it has an SD card slot for local music playback without needing a smartphone.
Long Battery Life
With a robust 7,500 mAh battery, the speaker can play music for as long as 24 hours on a single charge. It also has the added benefit of working as a power bank, capable of recharging smartphones using a USB-C connection.
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Tags: Bluetooth Speaker, G-Rok Pro, Rokform
May 30, 2025
Yandex Launches Yambda: Open-Source Music Recommendation Dataset
Key Takeaways
1. Yandex has launched the open-source Yambda dataset to provide insights into music listener preferences for building a streaming audio service similar to Spotify.
2. The dataset includes detailed recordings of 4.79 billion user interactions with 9.39 million music tracks over ten months from 28 million monthly Yandex Music users.
3. Yandex aims to use the dataset for AI-driven playlist customization, unlike other platforms that keep their algorithms private for competitive advantage.
4. The Yambda dataset is available for download in different sizes: 5 billion, 500 million, and 50 million events, with the largest needing at least 85 GB of storage.
5. The dataset is formatted in Apache Parquet, allowing for easier analysis and research, and can be accessed on HuggingFace.
Yandex has announced the launch of its open-source Yambda dataset, which provides insights into music listener preferences. This dataset aims to help build a streaming audio service akin to Spotify, featuring AI-driven playlist customization.
Playlist Creation with AI
Platforms such as Spotify, Tidal, and Qobuz utilize software algorithms or AI technologies to generate playlists tailored to individual user tastes. However, these companies typically keep their codes and models under wraps, viewing their ability to automatically curate enjoyable song selections as a valuable trade secret that contributes to their competitive edge.
Extensive Data Collection
Over a span of ten months, Yandex collected data consisting of 4.79 billion user interactions with 9.39 million music tracks from its 28 million monthly Yandex Music users. This dataset encompasses crucial feedback from listeners, detailing their listening choices, as well as their preferences and aversions. Each interaction is recorded with a timestamp for better accuracy.
Dataset Availability
The Yambda dataset is available for download in various sizes: five billion (1 million users), five hundred million (100,000 users), and fifty million (10,000 users) events, with the largest dataset needing a minimum of 85 GB storage. It is formatted in Apache Parquet, a column-oriented file format that simplifies analysis and research.
Readers can also consider gifting a Spotify gift card to share the joy of streaming music.
Yambda can be found at HuggingFace, as noted in the Yandex press release.
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Tags: Spotify, Yambda, Yandex
May 29, 2025
Realme Buds T200: Affordable Earbuds with 50 Hours Battery Life
Key Takeaways
1. Realme Buds T200 launched in China with an introductory price of CNY 129 (approximately $18).
2. Impressive battery life of up to 50 hours and noise cancellation capability reducing noise by up to 32 dB.
3. Equipped with a 12.4 mm driver, titanium plating, and supports LDAC audio codec for Hi-Res sound quality.
4. Features low-latency mode (45 ms) for gaming and uses Bluetooth 5.4 for connectivity.
5. Additional features include AI call reduction technology, IP55 rating for dust and water resistance, and available in four colors.
Realme has launched a new set of wireless earbuds in China, named the Buds T200. These noise-canceling earbuds come with an introductory price of CNY 129, which is roughly $18, and they are loaded with features. A key highlight is their impressive battery life, which is claimed to last up to 50 hours.
Noteworthy Features
Another significant aspect of the Realme Buds T200 is their noise cancellation capability, which is reported to reduce noise by up to 32 dB. While this figure is a bit lower than that of the newly released OnePlus Buds 4, Realme offers these at a more budget-friendly price.
Sound Quality
Regarding sound performance, Realme mentions that the Buds T200 come with a 12.4 mm driver that features titanium plating and a sizable dynamic coil. They support the LDAC audio codec, boasting a Hi-Res Gold Label sound quality.
There’s also a low-latency mode that reportedly lowers connection latency to 45 ms, making them great for gaming. On the connectivity front, the Realme Buds T200 use Bluetooth 5.4, although the company has not confirmed if they support LE audio.
Additional Features
Additional highlights include AI call reduction technology for clearer voice calls and an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance. According to a recent teaser, these wireless earbuds will be offered in four colors: green, black, white, and purple. They are set to launch on May 29 in China, and Realme has not yet shared any information about international availability or pricing.
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Tags: Noise Cancellation, Realme Buds T200, wireless earbuds
May 29, 2025
Avoit and Hyde Launch WA-J1 Triple-Driver Headphones
Key Takeaways
1. The Avoit WA-J1 headphones feature a unique mix of piezo, planar, and dynamic drivers for high-resolution sound and 3D spatial audio support.
2. They support Hi-Res Audio playback with Bluetooth 5.3 and the LDAC codec, along with the LC3 codec for superior music quality.
3. The headphones have an impressive battery life of up to 140 hours and can be recharged in three hours via USB-C; they also support 3.5 mm wired connections.
4. The limited-edition WA-J1-666 model includes Hyde-themed packaging, unique artwork, and sound tuning for enhanced rock tracks, alongside voice guidance from Hyde’s recordings.
5. The standard WA-J1 is priced at 39,600 yen (~$273), while the WA-J1-666 is priced at 46,260 yen (~$319), both available for pre-order on the Avoit website.
Avoit and J-Pop singer Hyde have teamed up to create the WA-J1 triple-driver over-ear headphones. These headphones utilize a mix of piezo, planar, and dynamic drivers in each ear, ensuring vivid high-resolution music playback along with support for 3D spatial audio. Additionally, their hybrid active noise cancellation system uses four microphones to effectively reduce background noise.
Audio Quality and Connectivity
The headphones are capable of Hi-Res Audio playback via multipoint Bluetooth 5.3 connections using the LDAC codec. They also support the new LC3 codec, which provides superior music quality compared to the more common SBC and AAC codecs, both of which are also supported.
Battery Life and Connectivity Options
With an internal battery life that lasts up to 140 hours, the headphones can be fully recharged in three hours with a USB-C power source. Users can also connect them to audio devices through a standard 3.5 mm headphone cable.
Special Edition and Pricing
The limited-edition WA-J1-666 model comes in Hyde-themed packaging and features unique artwork of a red snake and cross. Hyde’s voice recordings are incorporated for the headphone voice guidance. The sound is specially tuned to highlight Hyde’s rock tracks, delivering strong bass and clear vocals.
The Avoit WA-J1 is priced at 39,600 yen (~$273) and can be pre-ordered at a discounted price of 35,640 yen (~$246) for shipments in July. The WA-J1-666 is priced at 46,260 yen (~$319) and is available for pre-order for September delivery. Both models can be pre-ordered through the Avoit website. After launch, the WA-J1 will also be sold on the Avoit store on Amazon Japan.
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Tags: Avoit WA-J1, Avoit WA-J1-666, Hyde headphones
May 29, 2025
DJI Mic 3 Leaked Details: New Hardware Coming Soon
Key Takeaways
1. DJI is reportedly working on new drones, including the Avata 3, Mini 5 Pro, and Neo 2.
2. The company may soon introduce new products in its Osmo line, specifically the Osmo Pocket 4 and Osmo Nano.
3. DJI is planning to update its microphone lineup, potentially replacing the older Mic 2.
4. The new DJI Mic 3 has been listed on the FCC website, indicating it will come with a new charging case.
5. The Mic 3 Receiver is expected to feature a small squircle-shaped display and is likely to launch by late October.
There have been lots of talk about DJI working on new drones recently. In short, some early information about the Avata 3, Mini 5 Pro, and Neo 2 has surfaced online over the past few days. At the same time, it seems that DJI might soon add to its Osmo line with the Osmo Pocket 4 and Osmo Nano.
New Microphone on the Horizon
It appears that DJI is also getting ready to update its microphone lineup. Just to remind you, the company launched the Mic Mini last winter (curr. $59 on Amazon) as a more affordable option compared to the existing Mic 2. Early signs indicate that DJI is looking to replace the Mic 2, which isn’t surprising considering how long it has been around.
FCC Listings and Features
At the moment, the DJI Mic 3 has only been spotted on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) website. As usual, the regulatory agency hasn’t disclosed many specifics just yet. That said, it has confirmed that the Mic 3 Receiver will come with a new charging case. Furthermore, the FCC documents suggest that DJI’s Receiver will feature a small squircle-shaped display. Additionally, the regulatory body hints that the DJI Mic 3 package is set to officially launch by autumn, likely by late October.
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Tags: Avata 3, DJI, Mic 3
May 28, 2025
Hisense Unveils Devialet Audio Upgrade for Home Theater Systems
Key Takeaways
1. Hisense is collaborating with Devialet to enhance audio quality in home theater products.
2. Selected Hisense products will feature a unique “Tuned by Devialet” certification.
3. The 2025 Hisense TV lineup includes models with built-in sound systems and Dolby Atmos support.
4. The Hisense HT Saturn wireless sound system will also be “Tuned by Devialet,” offering a powerful surround sound experience.
5. The upcoming L9Q Laser TV will feature a high-end sound system, available for pre-order at $5,999.99.
Hisense has revealed a new collaboration with Devialet, which aims to offer top-notch audio experiences to users of its home theater products. Devialet, a high-end French audio tech company, was established in 2007 and has since introduced devices like the Gemini II Wireless Earbuds, currently priced at $499 on Amazon.
Exclusive Certifications
Several Hisense products will be labeled with a “Tuned by Devialet” certification, which is claimed to be unique. Nonetheless, there are other products that also carry this certification, such as the Sharp HT-SBW53121 and HT-SBW55121 soundbars.
Upcoming TV Models
Among the 2025 TV lineup, the Hisense 65U7Q Pro and 65U8Q ULED MiniLED TVs will feature the “Tuned by Devialet” branding. These 65-inch televisions come with built-in 2.1.2-channel and 4.1.2-channel sound systems, respectively, and both support Dolby Atmos. Hisense claims that, when combined with features like the 165HZ Game Mode Ultra, these TVs are poised to provide an engaging gaming experience.
Wireless Sound System
The Hisense HT Saturn, a wireless home theater sound system, will also be certified as “Tuned by Devialet.” This system includes 4.1.2-channel speakers that deliver a surround sound experience with a total output of 720 W and also offers Dolby Atmos support. Customers in the US can pre-order this model at the Hisense online store for $1,299.99.
Future Launch
Lastly, the upcoming L9Q Laser TV from Hisense, set to be released later in 2025, will also be “Tuned by Devialet.” This projector features a built-in 6.2.2 channel sound system, and the Opéra de Paris Devialet tuning is said to offer “an unparalleled acoustic experience.” The Hisense L9Q is available for pre-order in the US at a price of $5,999.99.
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Tags: Devialet, Hisense, L9Q Laser TV