Category: Audio

  • Tribit Launches Stormbox Mini Plus: 12-Hour Playtime & Lights

    Tribit Launches Stormbox Mini Plus: 12-Hour Playtime & Lights

    Key Takeaways

    1. Compact and Durable Design: The Stormbox Mini Plus measures 119 x 91 x 91 mm and weighs 545 grams, featuring an IPX7 rating for water resistance.

    2. Stylish Features: It includes interactive multi-color LED lights that sync with music, enhancing the visual experience alongside sound.

    3. Superior Sound Quality: Equipped with two 48 mm drivers and a passive radiator, it delivers 12 W output power and offers 360° stereo sound with dynamic range control.

    4. Extended Battery Life: The speaker provides up to 12 hours of battery life on a single charge and supports quick charging.

    5. Versatile Connectivity: It pairs with Android and iOS devices via Bluetooth 5.4, includes a 3.5 mm AUX input, and supports voice assistants through an integrated microphone.


    Tribit has launched its new Stormbox Mini Plus portable speaker in markets worldwide. This Bluetooth speaker is crafted to provide clear stereo sound and comes in a compact but tough design. To be more specific, it measures 119 x 91 x 91 mm (4.6 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches) and weighs about 545 grams (1.2 lbs). Additionally, the speaker is rated with an IPX7 standard, meaning it is resistant to water damage.

    Stylish Design

    When it comes to looks, the portable speaker holds its own against competitors. Tribit has added interactive multi-color LED lights to the Stormbox Mini Plus that sync with the music’s beat. In terms of sound features, this next-gen speaker is equipped with two strong 48 mm full-range drivers, a passive radiator, and delivers 12 W of output power.

    Enhanced Sound Quality

    Moreover, it comes with built-in 2+1 band dynamic range control (DRC) to improve clarity and balance. Tribit claims that the Stormbox Mini Plus offers immersive 360° stereo sound thanks to its left-right acoustic layout. The speaker’s battery life can last up to 12 hours on a single charge, and it supports quick charging.

    Connectivity and Features

    Users can also control the speaker through the Tribit companion app, which allows for sound adjustment and setting tweaks. Regarding connectivity, the small speaker pairs with both Android and iOS devices using Bluetooth 5.4. It also includes a 3.5 mm AUX input, an integrated microphone, physical controls, and support for voice assistants.

    The Tribit Stormbox Mini Plus portable speaker comes in black, blue, and green colors, priced at $39.99 (black) and $41.99 (green and blue). It is currently available for purchase on Tribit’s official website and on Amazon.

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  • Edifier MR5 Studio Monitors: Tri-Amplified & High-Res Audio

    Edifier MR5 Studio Monitors: Tri-Amplified & High-Res Audio

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch and Pricing: The Edifier MR5 studio monitor speakers were released on July 1, 2025, priced at $349.99 for a pair.

    2. Tri-Amplified Design: The MR5 features a three-way, tri-amped system with a 5-inch woofer, a 3.75-inch midrange driver, and a 1-inch tweeter, improving audio clarity and frequency management.

    3. Enhanced Frequency Response: The speakers have a frequency response range of 46 Hz to 40 kHz and a maximum sound pressure level of 101 dB, making them suitable for home studios and nearfield listening.

    4. Improved Connectivity: Connectivity options include balanced XLR/TRS inputs, RCA/AUX, Bluetooth 6.0 with LDAC support, and a headphone output, along with onboard tuning controls and app-based EQ customization.

    5. Competitive Advantage: The MR5’s tri-amped design and extensive input/output options provide a competitive edge over similar models like Kali Audio LP-6 V2 and Presonus Eris E5 XT.


    Edifier has recently introduced the MR5 studio monitor speakers, bringing a new high-quality choice to its range of affordable audio equipment. The speakers became available at select retailers on June 24, 2025, and had a broader release starting on July 1. The MR5 is priced at $349.99 for a pair and is a three-way, tri-amped system that builds on the earlier MR4 monitor series.

    Features and Specifications

    The MR5 is equipped with a 5-inch woofer, a 3.75-inch midrange driver, and a 1-inch silk-dome tweeter, with each component powered by its own Class-D amplifier. This tri-amped design allows for clearer crossover transitions and improved frequency management throughout the audio spectrum. The frequency response is specified to range from 46 Hz to 40 kHz, and it can achieve a maximum sound pressure level (SPL) of 101 dB at one meter.

    In contrast to the MR4, which uses a two-way system, the MR5 distinguishes its mid frequencies to prevent any overlap between the bass and treble sounds. With larger drivers and greater total output power of 110 W RMS per pair, the MR5 is ideal for home studios or nearfield listening situations that require additional headroom and clarity.

    Enhanced Connectivity

    The connectivity options are also improved. The MR5 comes with balanced XLR/TRS inputs, RCA/AUX, Bluetooth 6.0 with LDAC support, and a headphone output, making it versatile for various setups. Users can also access onboard tuning controls and benefit from app-based EQ customization through Edifier’s ConneX app, enabling them to tailor the sound to fit different environments or mixes.

    Despite their relatively small size, each speaker weighs more than 5 kg. The product has been certified for Hi-Res Audio, allowing for playback of up to 24-bit/96 kHz.

    Competitive Edge

    When comparing with the MR4, the MR5 brings several enhancements:

    At this price point, competing options like the Kali Audio LP-6 V2 and Presonus Eris E5 XT generally do not offer a tri-amped design with such a comprehensive range of inputs and outputs. This gives the Edifier MR5 a clear advantage over those models.

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  • Reimagine Co-Producer Plugin: AI Music Sample Variations

    Reimagine Co-Producer Plugin: AI Music Sample Variations

    Key Takeaways

    1. AI Remixing Feature: The Co-Producer plugin’s Re-imagine feature uses AI to remix sound samples, generating new, royalty-free audio.

    2. Streamlined Music Creation: Musicians can create sound samples from AI text prompts, simplifying the process of finding suitable audio.

    3. Endless Variations: The plugin generates numerous variations of original samples, promoting creativity and reducing the risk of copyright issues.

    4. Compatibility with DAWs: Works with various DAWs supporting 64-bit AAX, AU, and VST3 formats, including Ableton, Cubase, and Logic Pro.

    5. Subscription Pricing: Available for $9.99 per month, with a $14.99 plan that includes additional audio products.


    Output Co-Producer plugin for DAWs has introduced a new feature called Re-imagine that allows music producers to remix sound samples using AI technology. The newly generated samples are completely royalty-free, and the AI does not rely on any illegally sourced music samples for its training or audio production.

    Streamlined Music Creation

    This plugin can create sound samples based on AI text prompts, which helps musicians avoid the hassle of sifting through online libraries to find suitable audio for their projects. Additionally, it can provide sample ideas to accompany any track it listens to within a DAW.

    Endless Possibilities

    The Co-Producer Re-imagine feature produces countless variations of original samples, assisting creators in generating fresh takes on their music. This helps to reduce redundancy, steer clear of copyrighted material, and spark innovative ideas for their compositions.

    Compatibility and Pricing

    Co-Producer is a software solution that functions in DAWs compatible with 64-bit AAX, AU, and VST3 plugin types, including Ableton (available for purchase on Amazon), Cubase, FL Studio, GarageBand, Logic Pro (version 11.1 or higher), Pro Tools, Reason, Reaper, and Studio One, on both Mac and PC systems.

    To use the software, a subscription costs $9.99 per month. The $14.99 Output One monthly plan also provides access to the company’s other audio products.

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  • Google Now Playing May Soon Display Album Artwork

    Google Now Playing May Soon Display Album Artwork

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Google Pixel’s Now Playing feature identifies songs playing nearby and displays the title and artist on the lock screen.
    2. A future update may allow the display of album artwork alongside song information on the lock screen.
    3. Users can tap on the song title to unlock their phone and view more details, including a history of previously identified songs.
    4. An upcoming feature includes a heart-shaped button for favoriting or removing songs from the favorites list.
    5. The release date for the updated Now Playing feature is still uncertain.


    The Google Pixel’s Now Playing feature may soon include album artwork. Right now, when a Pixel phone detects music playing nearby, this feature smartly identifies the song, displaying the title and artist on the lock screen. Users can tap the song title and unlock their phone to see more details. Additionally, the Now Playing history can be found in the phone’s settings, allowing users to favorite songs.

    Update on Album Artwork

    A recent report from Android Authority states that Google is developing the option to show the corresponding album artwork on the lock screen. This potential update to the Now Playing feature was found in a recent Android System Intelligence update. It appears that while the main layout will stay the same, users of Pixel phones will have the ability to tap on the song to expand the notification and see the album art displayed on the lock screen.

    New Features Coming Soon

    Moreover, it looks like tapping on the track will also show a heart-shaped favorite button, which can be used to add or remove a song from your favorites list. Users are expected to double-tap to view their Now Playing history. It is still unclear when or if Google will roll out this updated version of the Now Playing feature to Pixel phone users. Back in July 2025, Google surprised everyone with a Pixel Drop that introduced new Circle to Search features for the US and India, along with a complimentary one-year subscription to Google AI Pro for owners of the Pixel 9 Pro (Obsidian, 128 GB, unlocked, curr. $999 at Amazon).

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  • Sony WH-1000XM6 Hinge Issues Persist, User Reports Highlight Problems

    Sony WH-1000XM6 Hinge Issues Persist, User Reports Highlight Problems

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are designed with metal parts to improve hinge strength, addressing issues from the previous model.
    2. A customer has reported a broken hinge, indicating potential ongoing durability concerns despite improvements.
    3. The lower hinge assembly is still primarily plastic, raising questions about its long-term reliability.
    4. Replacement parts for the WH-1000XM6, including hinges, are listed but currently out of stock, limiting repair options.
    5. Affected headphones are under warranty and can be repaired at no cost, but it’s unclear if hinge issues will be widespread like with the previous model.


    According to Sony, the WH-1000XM6 over-ear headphones are built to be stronger than before. To fix the common hinge problems seen in the last model, Sony has used some metal parts. However, just a few weeks after the official launch of the Sony WH-1000XM6 (starting at $448 on Amazon), a customer has posted a picture showing a broken hinge on the new version.

    Hinge Issues

    To be specific, the metal hinge has come apart from the plastic frame, possibly because of a break in the plastic base of the headphones. The Walkman Blog points out that the bottom part of the hinge assembly is completely made of plastic, lacking any metal to support its strength. This is where the Sony logo can be found.

    Repair Options

    As shown in the iFixit teardown video below, this part can be changed individually, which means it can be fixed, but Sony has not yet made these spare parts available for purchase. Encompass, a supplier of replacement parts, has already listed 53 different spare parts for the Sony WH-1000XM6, including hinges, but those parts are currently out of stock.

    For now, any headphones that are affected should still be under the manufacturer’s warranty, which means they can be repaired without cost. It remains uncertain if the Sony WH-1000XM6 will face widespread hinge issues due to a design flaw, like the previous WH-1000XM5 model. This might just be a one-time occurrence, and it took months for the last model’s defect to become well-known.

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  • Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 Headphones at Lowest Price on Amazon

    Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 Headphones at Lowest Price on Amazon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Shokz is a leading brand in bone-conduction earphones, known for their innovative technology and high-quality products like the OpenRun Pro 2.
    2. The OpenRun Pro 2 features a new hybrid driver system called DualPitch, enhancing sound quality by combining bone conduction and air conduction drivers.
    3. Weighing only 30 grams, the headphones are lightweight and durable, with an IP55 rating for resistance to dust, sweat, and water.
    4. The OpenRun Pro 2 has a 12-hour battery life and charges via USB-C, simplifying the charging process.
    5. While Shokz models are highly rated, they face competition from brands like Sony and Bose, which do not offer a dual-driver configuration.


    While earphones that allow you to hear your surroundings have become more popular, Shokz remains a top brand that not only started this trend with their unique bone-conduction technology, but also continues to provide some of the finest options available. Their flagship product for runners and fitness lovers, the OpenRun Pro 2, was introduced last year and is currently priced at $125 in orange, down from $180.

    New Hybrid Driver Setup

    The latest model brings an improved hybrid driver system, which includes both bone conduction and air-conduction drivers, a feature that Shokz refers to as DualPitch technology. This new setup handles the frequency range more efficiently compared to using only the bone-conduction driver, which often has trouble with lower frequencies. It also minimizes physical vibrations when the volume is higher.

    Lightweight and Durable Design

    These headphones are primarily designed for exercise, weighing only 30 grams. They also have an IP55 rating, meaning they are resistant to dust, sweat, and water. Shokz additionally claims that a new AI noise reduction feature enhances microphone quality in difficult conditions.

    The battery lasts for 12 hours, and you can charge the headphones through USB-C, eliminating the need for a special magnetic charging cable.

    Competing Models in the Market

    Even though both the OpenRun and OpenRun Pro models have consistently ranked highly on many reviewers’ lists in this category, they do encounter competition from other brands. This includes the everyday-focused Sony LinkBuds Open earbuds and Bose Ultra Open earbuds, along with the sportier Soundcore AeroFit Pro and Suunto Wing. It’s important to mention that none of these alternatives feature a dual-driver configuration—while the first three utilize air-conduction drivers, the Suunto relies on bone conduction.

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  • Affordable ANC Headphones with Removable Display

    Affordable ANC Headphones with Removable Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Siindoo JH-ANC930Plus features a detachable display that can be used as a remote control for playback and settings.
    2. The headphones offer active noise cancellation, making them suitable for use in loud environments like airplanes.
    3. They are equipped with 40-millimeter drivers that reproduce sound frequencies from 20 to 20,000 Hz for quality audio.
    4. Connectivity options include a 3.5mm audio jack, along with physical buttons for noise cancellation and volume control.
    5. The display allows for customization of wallpaper and includes a small video game feature.


    Headphones with displays on their charging cases are not entirely rare, like the JBL Tour Pro 3. Nonetheless, the Siindoo JH-ANC930Plus takes a unique approach by featuring a detachable display that can snap into one of the ear cups. This display functions like a remote control, allowing users to manage playback and tweak various settings. Users can also customize the wallpaper and even play a small video game.

    Noise Cancellation Features

    This model includes active noise reduction, which can be advantageous in loud places like airplanes. Consistent with typical over-ear headphones, it is equipped with 40-millimeter drivers intended to reproduce sound frequencies ranging from 20 to 20,000 Hz, ensuring a quality listening experience.

    Connectivity and Controls

    The Siindoo JH-ANC930Plus headphones offer connectivity through a 3.5mm audio jack. Besides the display, they come with buttons to activate or deactivate noise cancellation, along with controls for volume adjustments. More information about the headphones is available here, where they can be purchased as a direct import for the price of $66.

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  • DJI Mic 3 Leaks: New Details and Official Accessories Revealed

    DJI Mic 3 Leaks: New Details and Official Accessories Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Design Similarities: The Mic 3 features subtle design changes from the Mic 2, maintaining key elements like the 1.1-inch OLED touchscreen display and large dial.

    2. Dual Audio Outputs: The receiver supports dual audio outputs, allowing simultaneous connections to cameras and headphones.

    3. Mic 3 Transmitter Size: The Mic 3 transmitter is expected to be similar in size to the Mic Mini, measuring 14 x 28 x 29 mm.

    4. New Windscreen Colors: DJI plans to offer Mic 3 Windscreens in a variety of new colors.

    5. Anticipated Release Date: The Mic 3 is expected to launch on July 29, alongside the Osmo 360, but pricing and color options remain undisclosed.


    Leaker Igor Bogdanov has shared new details about DJI’s upcoming wireless microphone, just a few days after Jasper Ellens and DroneXL revealed pictures and specs of the same product. While the latter two focused on technical information, Bogdanov has treated his followers with over a dozen pictures showcasing the Mic 3 and its different accessories.

    Design Updates

    From the latest images, it appears that DJI has made only subtle changes to the design of the receiver compared to the previous Mic 2 model (currently priced at $349 on Amazon). For example, the small display, which measures 1.1 inches on the Mic 2 and features OLED technology with touchscreen capabilities, remains intact. Additionally, the large dial is still present, though it lacks the ‘Mic RX’ label found on the Mic 2.

    Functional Features

    Furthermore, the receiver includes dual audio outputs, allowing users to connect the device to both cameras and headphones at the same time. The Mic 3 transmitter is anticipated to be similar in size to the Mic Mini, with dimensions of 14 x 28 x 29 mm. Interestingly, it seems that DJI will also offer Mic 3 Windscreens in a variety of new colors, as indicated by the evidence we included above.

    Anticipated Release

    At this moment, DJI is reportedly aiming for July 29 as the launch date for its new wireless microphone. If the latest leaks hold true, we could see the Mic 3 debuting alongside the highly anticipated Osmo 360. Unfortunately, details about the pricing of the Mic 3 have yet to be disclosed, nor is it clear if the wireless microphone will be available in multiple colors like the Mic 2.

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  • Affordable Lenovo Wireless Earbuds Now Available from $7

    Affordable Lenovo Wireless Earbuds Now Available from $7

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lenovo offers a wider range of products, especially accessories, in China compared to other markets.
    2. Prices for Lenovo XT60 Pro and XT88 Pro earbuds are low at $7 and $8 on Aliexpress, but warranty issues may arise with imports.
    3. Shipping to the US is free, but import fees are not included in the listed prices.
    4. Both models lack high-end features like active noise cancellation and advanced audio codecs.
    5. The XT60 Pro has a battery life of up to 6.5 hours (24 hours with the case), while the XT88 Pro lasts up to four hours with larger drivers.


    PC giant Lenovo has a much bigger range of products in China, especially when it comes to accessories. While some Lenovo headphones can be found at third-party sellers on Amazon, others can also be imported directly. Buying these products might create issues about warranty rights, but the risk of spending money on the new Lenovo XT60 Pro or XT88 Pro earbuds is quite low, as they are currently priced at $7 and $8 on Aliexpress, respectively.

    Shipping and Pricing Details

    For customers in the US, shipping is free, but any potential import fees aren’t included in these prices. Despite the “Pro” label in their names, these wireless headphones aren’t high-end options. Therefore, buyers will not get some of the more advanced features like active noise cancellation or better quality codecs such as LDAC or even lossless codecs.

    Design and Battery Life

    Nonetheless, the Lenovo Erazer XT60 Pro are wireless headphones designed with an open style. These earbuds fit around the ears and should stay in place even during intense workouts, possibly making them more comfortable than standard in-ear models. They reportedly have a battery life of up to 6.5 hours, which can be extended to 24 hours with the included charging case. In contrast, the Lenovo Erazer XT88 Pro are classic in-ear headphones with a battery life of up to four hours and come with larger 13mm drivers, compared to the 10mm drivers found in the XT60 Pro.

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  • Hisense Launches 13-Speaker Dolby Atmos Surround System, 720W

    Hisense Launches 13-Speaker Dolby Atmos Surround System, 720W

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hisense HT Saturn surround sound system launched globally, with online retailers listing it.
    2. Priced at €999, it features Dolby Atmos and a 4.1.2 channel setup with 13 speakers.
    3. The system includes up-firing speakers and a 6.5-inch subwoofer, certified “tuned by Devialet.”
    4. Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.3, HDMI In, eARC, and optical inputs, with stable wireless transmission.
    5. EzPlay feature allows control via a Hisense TV remote for easy sound management.


    Back in April, Hisense introduced a new surround sound system named the HT Saturn. At that time, the company mentioned that it would be available globally soon. June was suggested as the launch month for several countries, but it has not yet appeared in many European regions. However, the wait seems to be nearly over, as some online retailers have already started to list the home theater system.

    Pricing and Specs

    The official price tag for the Hisense HT Saturn is €999. For this price, customers receive a surround sound system featuring Dolby Atmos and 4.1.2 channels. It includes a total of 13 speakers spread across four satellite units and a subwoofer.

    Each satellite comes with an up-firing speaker, a tweeter, and a full-range speaker. Furthermore, there is a subwoofer that has a 6.5-inch driver. The outcome is a 4.1.2-channel surround sound setup that boasts an exclusive “tuned by Devialet” certification, which reportedly merges Hisense’s advanced Hi-Concerto architecture with Devialet’s acoustic innovations.

    Connectivity and Features

    The Hisense HT Saturn can be effortlessly synchronized with compatible Hisense TV speakers. It is compatible with both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, promising to deliver a sound that fills the room. The Chinese brand also claims to offer an impressive 7.1.2-channel 3D audio experience when all the outputs are functioning together.

    Wireless transmission utilizes 2.4, 5.2, and 5.8GHz frequencies to ensure stable connections with minimal latency. The new Hisense speaker system also supports Bluetooth 5.3, HDMI In, HDMI eARC, and optical inputs. Lastly, Hisense’s EzPlay feature lets users manage the sound system using a standard Hisense TV remote control to modify volume, sound modes (like standard, movie, music, game, and sport), and more.

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