Category: Audio

  • Sony WF-C710N Earbuds: AI Call Clarity & Noise Cancellation for $119.99

    Sony WF-C710N Earbuds: AI Call Clarity & Noise Cancellation for $119.99

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has launched the WF-C710N mid-range wireless earbuds, available for pre-order in four colors: Glass Blue, Pink, White, and Black.
    2. Key features include Dual Noise Sensor technology, customizable ambient sound settings, and Adaptive Sound Control for optimized audio based on location and activity.
    3. The earbuds are equipped with 5mm drivers, Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE), and EQ Custom for personalized sound profiles.
    4. They offer up to 30 hours of battery life with quick charging options and include touch controls, Instant Pause/Play, and IPX4 water resistance.
    5. The WF-C710N is priced at $119.99 USD ($169.99 CAD) and can be pre-ordered through Sony’s website, Amazon, and select retailers.


    Sony Electronics Inc. has launched its latest mid-range wireless earbuds, the WF-C710N. These earbuds are now available for pre-order and come in four stylish colors: Glass Blue, Pink, White, and Black. They are designed to offer essential features like noise cancellation, an extended battery life, and high-quality call clarity, all packed in a compact form.

    Key Features

    The WF-C710N earbuds utilize Dual Noise Sensor technology, featuring two microphones that help minimize background noise. Users can customize the ambient sound settings via the Sony Sound Connect app, which provides 20 adjustable levels or allows for voice passthrough. The Adaptive Sound Control automatically alters audio settings based on the user’s location and activity, remembering frequently visited spots such as offices or gyms. Additionally, the AI-driven Precise Voice Pickup Technology, developed using over 500 million voice samples, enhances speech isolation and reduces unwanted noise during calls.

    Design and Performance

    Each earbud is outfitted with a 5mm driver and includes support for the Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE), which enhances the quality of compressed audio files. The app also features EQ Custom, enabling users to tailor sound profiles to their liking. Weighing very little, the WF-C710N boasts an IPX4 water-resistant design. The earbuds come with a cylindrical case and incorporate touch controls for music playback, calls, and volume adjustments. When used with the charging case, these earbuds can provide up to 30 hours of total battery life. A quick five-minute charge is enough for 60 minutes of playback. Other handy features include Instant Pause/Play and multipoint Bluetooth connectivity.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can pre-order the WF-C710N through Sony’s website, Amazon, and select authorized retailers. The price is set at $119.99 USD ($169.99 CAD).

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  • Sony WH-CH720N and WH-CH520 Headphones in New Pastel Colors

    Sony WH-CH720N and WH-CH520 Headphones in New Pastel Colors

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has added new color options for the WH-CH720N and WH-CH520 headphones, including pastel pink and yellow (WH-CH520), plus an exclusive espresso color for Canada.
    2. The WH-CH720N features active noise cancellation, DSEE technology, and a battery life of up to 50 hours without noise cancellation.
    3. The WH-CH720N includes features like Precise Voice Pickup, physical controls on ear cups, and supports Bluetooth 5.2 with dual-device connectivity.
    4. The WH-CH520 is designed as an on-ear headphone with a compact design, featuring a built-in microphone and customizable audio settings via the Sony Headphones app.
    5. Pricing for the WH-CH720N is $149.99 USD ($249.99 CAD), while the WH-CH520 is priced at $59.99 USD ($99.99 CAD), with options available for pre-order.


    Sony has introduced new color choices for its WH-CH720N and WH-CH520 wireless headphones. Both models now feature a pastel pink option, while the WH-CH520 gets an additional yellow color. In Canada, there will also be an espresso color available. This change is part of Sony’s initiative to provide more aesthetic variety in its current product range.

    WH-CH720N: Specs and Features

    The WH-CH720N is an over-ear wireless headphone equipped with active noise cancellation powered by the Sony V1 processor. It comes with 30mm dynamic drivers and utilizes DSEE technology to enhance the sound quality of compressed audio. The ambient sound mode lets in some outside noise, and the voice mode simplifies conversations without needing to take off the headphones. Adaptive sound control modifies noise cancellation and audio based on what the user is doing and their environment.

    WH-CH720N Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones in Pink

    These headphones are designed with Precise Voice Pickup for clearer voice quality during calls. Users can control playback, volume, and noise cancellation with physical buttons located on the ear cups. They support Bluetooth 5.2, Google Fast Pair, and can connect to two devices simultaneously. Battery life lasts up to 50 hours without noise cancellation and 35 hours with it. Fast charging is also available.

    WH-CH520: Specs and Features

    The WH-CH520 is an on-ear wireless headphone featuring a compact design, an adjustable headband, and soft ear pads. It also includes 30mm drivers and DSEE technology. Users can customize audio settings via the Sony Headphones app. A built-in microphone enables hands-free calling and voice assistant functionality.

    Battery life reaches up to 50 hours. Connectivity options feature Bluetooth 5.2 with Swift Pair, Google Fast Pair, and dual-device capability.

    Availability and Pricing

    The WH-CH720N is priced at $149.99 USD ($249.99 CAD) and is available for pre-order in pink and other previously offered colors through Sony Electronics, Amazon, and authorized sellers.

    The WH-CH520 is available for $59.99 USD ($99.99 CAD), and can be pre-ordered in pink, yellow, and existing color choices. The espresso variant will be exclusive to Canada.


  • Sony WF-C710N Earbuds: New Design, Touch Controls, Longer Battery Life

    Sony WF-C710N Earbuds: New Design, Touch Controls, Longer Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. Redesigned Look: The WF-C710N earbuds feature a new design, replacing physical buttons with touch controls and revamping the mesh design for a fresh appearance.

    2. Enhanced Functionality: The earbuds include dual microphones for better noise cancellation, in-ear detection for automatic playback, and touch controls for music and voice assistant features.

    3. Improved Battery Life: Offers up to 8.5 hours of battery with noise cancellation, 12 hours without, and a total of 30 hours with the charging case, which charges via USB-C.

    4. Water Resistance and Compatibility: With an IPX4 rating, these earbuds are water-resistant and support various features like Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair, and 360 Reality Audio.

    5. Availability and Pricing: Priced at $119.99, the WF-C710N earbuds are available for pre-order with shipping expected to start on March 31, 2024, and come in multiple color options.


    Sony has introduced the WF-C710N earbuds, which are the next version of the budget-friendly WF-C700N that came out in 2023. These new earbuds offer a redesigned look, improved battery life, and several other enhancements.

    Design Improvements

    The Sony WF-C710N maintains a small size but features a new design element where the physical button was located on the previous model. This change was made because Sony has replaced physical buttons with touch controls. Additionally, the mesh design has been revamped, adding a fresh touch to the overall look.

    Enhanced Features

    In terms of functionality, the WF-C710N now includes dual microphones on each earbud, enhancing its noise cancellation abilities. It also features in-ear detection that pauses music when the earbuds are removed and resumes it when they’re put back in. With the new touch controls, users can play/pause music, adjust the volume, skip tracks, and activate the voice assistant, or quickly access services like Spotify Tap.

    Battery Life and Availability

    The new earbuds have an IPX4 rating, which means they are water-resistant. They support Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair, Bluetooth Multipoint, and can be used with just one earbud. Additionally, they are certified for 360 Reality Audio, compatible with the 360 Spatial Sound Personalizer app and the Sound Connect app, which allows for switching presets or customizing EQ settings.

    The Sony WF-C710N offers a battery life of up to 8.5 hours with noise cancellation enabled and up to 12 hours without it. When combined with the charging case, the total battery life reaches 30 hours, and the case charges via USB-C.

    Available in Black, Pink, White, and a transparent Glass Blue, the price for the Sony WF-C710N earbuds is set at $119.99 and they can be pre-ordered now, with shipping anticipated to start on March 31. The earlier model, WF-700N, is still offered at $99.99 from Sony, or you can find it on Amazon for $98.00.

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  • Sony Launches Updated Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

    Sony Launches Updated Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has updated its WH-CH520 and WH-CH720N over-ear headphone models with new color options.
    2. The WH-CH720N now includes a muted pastel pink variant, bringing its total color options to four.
    3. The WH-CH520 has added a second soft, muted yellow shade, increasing its color options from four to six.
    4. The pricing for both headphone models remains unchanged: WH-CH720N at $88.74 and WH-CH520 at $59.99.
    5. New color choices for both models are available for pre-order globally, with deliveries expected soon.


    Sony has updated two of its over-ear headphone models, just a bit over a month after news of their upcoming release surfaced online. The refreshed WH-CH520 and WH-CH720N are now available, together with the new WF-C710N. For further information on Sony’s recent TWS earbuds, check out our dedicated launch article.

    New Color Options

    To summarize, The Walkman Blog disclosed that Sony would introduce a pink variant for the WH-CH720N (currently priced at $88.74 on Amazon), which is now officially launched. In response to the “increasing demand for soft, muted tones,” the addition of this “muted pastel pink” makes the total color options for the WH-CH720N four. It’s worth noting that the pink version has the same hardware as the other three existing color choices.

    Pricing Remains the Same

    The WH-CH520 follows a similar pattern, keeping its MSRP at $59.99. However, its color palette has increased from four to six, thanks to the introduction of a second “soft, muted yellow” shade. Sony has also mentioned a new color called “Espresso” for the WH-CH520, but this is only available in Canada. All of the new color choices should be up for pre-order globally starting today. Deliveries are expected to commence either this weekend or early next week.

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  • FiiO FX17 Flagship Headphones: 13 Drivers & Hi-Fi Sound 8Hz-40kHz

    FiiO FX17 Flagship Headphones: 13 Drivers & Hi-Fi Sound 8Hz-40kHz

    Key Takeaways

    1. High-End Design: FiiO FX17 earbuds feature a lightweight titanium shell with 13 drivers, including a 10mm dynamic lithium-magnesium driver, four Knowles Balanced Armature drivers, and eight electrostatic drivers from Sonion.

    2. Complex Driver Setup: The earbuds use five crossovers for optimal sound quality, with electrostatic tweeters covering frequencies above 50kHz and a combination of drivers handling bass and mids.

    3. Sensitivity and Cable Features: The FX17 has a sensitivity rating of 104 dB/mW, an impedance of 16 ohms, and comes with a replaceable MMCX cable that supports multiple plug types (3.5mm, 4.4mm, USB-C) and includes a built-in DAC.

    4. Pricing and Availability: The FiiO FX17 is priced at $1,515 and is available on Aliexpress.

    5. Included Accessories: The package includes 22 pairs of eartips for a customized fit, a cleaning brush, and a carrying case.


    The brand-new FiiO FX17 are high-end earbuds that feature a lightweight titanium shell. Each earbud is equipped with 13 drivers, including a 10mm dynamic lithium-magnesium driver. Moreover, there are four Knowles Balanced Armature drivers specifically designed for the FX17, along with eight electrostatic drivers from Sonion.

    Complex Driver Setup

    To achieve optimal sound, FiiO has implemented five crossovers in this configuration. The diverse mix of driver types is expected to enhance audio quality. The electrostatic tweeters can theoretically cover frequencies above 50kHz and have a sensitivity of just 99 dB/mW, which means they may be less loud than dynamic drivers. However, with eight of these drivers in the in-ear design, their volume should be higher overall. The mids are handled by the Knowles Balanced Armature drivers, while the dynamic driver takes care of the bass.

    Sensitivity and Cable Features

    The FiiO FX17 boasts a sensitivity rating of 104 dB/mW and has an impedance of 16 ohms. These new earbuds come with a replaceable MMCX cable, making it easy to swap out if necessary. The included 4ft cable is a combination of gold, silver, and copper materials and can be fitted with either a 3.5mm, 4.4mm, or USB-C plug. The USB-C adapter includes a built-in DAC that supports audio quality up to 32 bit at 384kHz.

    Pricing and Accessories

    Currently, the FiiO FX17 flagship earbuds can be found on Aliexpress for $1,515. To provide the best fit, these headphones come with 22 different pairs of eartips. The plug of the supplied cable can be changed, as FiiO provides options for 3.5mm, 4.4mm, and USB-C connectors. Additionally, a cleaning brush and a carrying case are included in the package as well.

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  • JVCKenwood Launches WDS-01 Wireless Speaker with Wood Driver

    JVCKenwood Launches WDS-01 Wireless Speaker with Wood Driver

    Key Takeaways

    1. The JVCKenwood WDS-01 wireless speaker features a unique driver made from pure wood, with cabinet options in cedar, oak, pine, spruce, or dark walnut.
    2. It has 60 mm wood cone drivers and supports Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity, allowing devices to be placed up to 10 meters (33 ft.) away, along with an aux in port for wired connections.
    3. The built-in rechargeable battery lasts up to eight hours and takes about 4.5 hours to recharge via USB-C.
    4. The speaker will be available on March 28, with only 100 units available and prices ranging from 38,500 yen (~$255) to 82,500 yen (~$545) depending on the wood type.
    5. The first 30 customers will receive a natural beeswax cream for wood maintenance, and JVC also offers the HA-FW01 earbuds with wood dome diaphragms for those wanting a portable option.


    JVCKenwood has introduced the WDS-01 wireless speaker, featuring a distinctive driver made from pure wood. This specially crafted speaker is available with cabinets made of cedar, oak, pine, spruce, or dark walnut.

    Specifications and Connectivity

    The WDS-01 is equipped with 60 mm wood cone drivers, allowing it to deliver standard SBC streaming audio through Bluetooth 4.2 connections. Users can place wireless audio devices as far as 10 meters (33 ft.) away. Additionally, the speaker includes an aux in port for those who prefer a wired connection.

    Battery Life and Charging

    The built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery powers the 6-watt speaker for up to eight hours. It takes about 4.5 hours to fully recharge using a USB-C power supply.

    Pricing and Availability

    The JVCKenwood WDS-01 wireless wood speaker is set to be available for purchase on March 28, with a limited run of just 100 units. Shipping is expected roughly a month after orders are placed. The cedar and pine variants are priced at 38,500 yen (~$255), while the oak and spruce versions cost 55,000 yen (~$365), and the walnut model is priced at 82,500 yen (~$545). The first 30 customers will receive a natural beeswax cream to help maintain the wood surfaces.

    For readers seeking a more portable option, the JVC HA-FW01 earbuds, featuring wood dome diaphragms, are available for purchase on Amazon.

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  • FiiO Launches SA1 Desktop Speakers with 31-Band EQ and LDAC

    FiiO Launches SA1 Desktop Speakers with 31-Band EQ and LDAC

    Key Takeaways

    1. Compact Design: The FiiO SA1 speakers measure 13.6 x 15.6 x 18.5 cm and weigh 1.75 kg, making them small yet powerful desktop speakers.

    2. Audio Performance: They feature a frequency range of 65 Hz to 20 kHz, a 31-band equalizer app for sound customization, and the ability to connect to an optional active subwoofer.

    3. Connectivity Options: The speakers offer various inputs, including aux, TOSLINK, coaxial, USB-C, and Bluetooth 5.4, along with a phono preamp for turntables.

    4. Integrated DAC: The built-in DAC supports high-resolution audio signals, handling up to 96 kHz/32-bit and 192 kHz/24-bit through USB and coax inputs.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The FiiO SA1 is priced around $200 on AliExpress, with availability expected from global retailers like Amazon shortly after release.


    The FiiO SA1 is a set of small desktop speakers that packs a punch. With dimensions of 13.6 x 15.6 x 18.5 cm (5.4 x 6.1 x 7.3 in) and a weight of 1.75 kg (3.86 lb), each unit features a 90 mm wood-fiber woofer and a 20 mm aluminum-magnesium tweeter, powered by a 20-watt and 5-watt amplifier respectively.

    Audio Performance

    Thanks to this configuration, the speakers provide a frequency range from 65 Hz to 20 kHz. A standout aspect is the 31-band equalizer found in the accompanying smartphone app, which lets users modify the sound output based on their likings and the acoustics of their space. The app also has presets tailored for different music styles. Moreover, the FiiO SA1 can connect to an optional active subwoofer and includes knobs for independent volume and bass control.

    Connectivity Options

    The FiiO SA1 desktop speakers are created for great adaptability. In addition to aux, TOSLINK, and coaxial inputs, FiiO has added a USB-C port for computer connections, a phono preamp for turntable use, and Bluetooth 5.4 that supports AAC, SBC, and Sony’s LDAC. The integrated DAC can handle 96 kHz/32-bit and 192 kHz/24-bit audio signals through USB and coax inputs respectively.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can find the FiiO SA1 on AliExpress with a price tag of about $200, not including taxes and shipping costs. If you’d rather not deal with imports, FiiO products usually show up at worldwide retailers like Amazon a few weeks after their initial release. For further details about the SA1, you can check out the official product page.

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  • Yamaha Extrack App: Practice Songs Like a Band Member Alone

    Yamaha Extrack App: Practice Songs Like a Band Member Alone

    Key Takeaways

    1. Yamaha Japan launched the Extrack app for musicians, available on iOS, with an Android version coming in April.
    2. The app analyzes song files, separating vocals and instruments into individual tracks for practice and performance.
    3. Extrack features automatic chord progressions, adjustable playback speed, and repeat sections for enhanced learning.
    4. Vocalists can use a key change option to match the track to their vocal range, with the ability to mute instruments for focus on lyrics.
    5. The app offers a free plan for five songs monthly and a paid plan for unlimited songs and additional tracks, with the paid plan currently free until August.


    Yamaha Japan has introduced an innovative app called Extrack, tailored for musicians who want to learn and perform songs as if they were jamming with a band. The app is currently available for download on Apple iOS, while Android users can expect it to launch in April.

    Features of Extrack

    Extrack starts by analyzing the song files that users download, identifying the various vocals and instruments within the track. It then separates these components into individual tracks. Musicians have the flexibility to adjust the volume of each track or even mute them completely, enabling them to practice alongside a particular instrument or concentrate on mastering one specific track.

    Learning Made Easy

    To enhance the learning experience, the app automatically shows chord progressions for piano and guitar tracks, making it easier for users to follow along. Moreover, the playback speed can be modified, and certain sections of a track can be set to repeat automatically until the user feels they have mastered that part.

    One standout feature for vocalists is the key change option, which modifies the track to fit the singer’s natural vocal range. During playback, all instrument tracks can be muted, allowing users to focus solely on learning the lyrics.

    Pricing Plans

    The app offers a free plan that lets musicians split up to five songs each month into four tracks (bass, drums, vocals, and others). For those looking for more features, a paid plan is available, which allows for an unlimited number of songs and seven tracks (bass, brass, drums, guitar, piano, vocals, and others). Currently, the paid plan is being offered for free until August.

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  • AirPods Max to Support Lossless Audio via USB-C Soon

    AirPods Max to Support Lossless Audio via USB-C Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lossless Audio Coming Soon: AirPods Max users will soon enjoy lossless audio with the iOS 18.4 update, set to roll out next month.

    2. USB-C Requirement: The new audio features, including 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio, will only work with the USB-C version of AirPods Max when connected via USB-C cable.

    3. Exclusive to New Models: Only USB-C AirPods Max users will have access to the lossless audio features; older models will not be compatible.

    4. Enhanced Audio Experience: The update will improve audio quality for music, films, and games, benefiting both consumers and music producers.

    5. Benefits for Gamers and Streamers: The update will also provide ultra-low latency audio, enhancing the experience for gamers and streamers using wired connections.


    AirPods Max users are set to enjoy lossless and ultra-low latency audio very soon, as per an announcement from Apple. This feature will be included in the upcoming iOS 18.4 update, which is expected to roll out next month. With this update, users will be able to access 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio through Apple Music or other compatible streaming services, but this will only be possible when using a USB-C cable. It’s important to note that those who own the older AirPods Max models will not have access to this feature; it’s exclusive to the USB-C variant.

    Enhancements to Audio Experience

    In their official statement, Apple mentioned that USB-C AirPods Max will provide an opportunity for users to “experience the highest-quality audio across music, films, and games, while music producers can benefit from significant improvements in songwriting, beat making, production, and mixing.” Additionally, lossless audio will integrate with Personalized Spatial Audio, offering access to over 100 million tracks in the Apple Music catalog that support this feature.

    Features for Gamers and Streamers

    Moreover, alongside the iOS 18.4 update, the USB-C version of AirPods Max will also feature ultra-low latency audio that matches the quality of the built-in speakers on Mac, iPad, and iPhone. This upgrade will greatly benefit gamers and streamers, allowing them to use the headphones for a more engaging experience when connected in wired mode.

    As previously stated, these features will only function on AirPods Max when linked via the USB-C cable. Apple has also begun offering the USB-C to 3.5mm cable in its online store and through authorized resellers. The lossless and ultra-low latency audio features will be included in a firmware update for AirPods Max next month, although a specific date has yet to be provided.

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  • BYD and Distributor Launch EV Podcast in Australia to Clarify Facts

    BYD and Distributor Launch EV Podcast in Australia to Clarify Facts

    Key Takeaways

    1. BYD is launching a new podcast in Australia called Charge Up Australia to educate listeners about electric vehicles.
    2. The podcast will feature case studies, buying tips, and sales updates relevant to the Australian EV market.
    3. Notable guests include experts like Michelle Nazzarri, Tim Washington, Birdie Schmidt, and Sarah Aubrey.
    4. Host Jon Dee aims to clarify misconceptions about electric vehicles and encourage more adoption in Australia.
    5. Electric vehicle sales in Australia decreased by nearly 50% in February 2025, with BYD’s Sealion 7 and Atto 3 ranking in the top ten models.


    BYD is set to introduce a new podcast in Australia aiming to educate audiences about electric vehicles. This initiative comes in collaboration with its distributor in Australia, EVDirect. The podcast, titled Charge Up Australia, will be hosted by Jon Dee, an environmentalist and former NSW Australian of the Year.

    Insights and Information

    Charge Up Australia promises to deliver the most recent information on the e-mobility industry without favoring any particular brand. It will include case studies, along with tips for buying and owning electric vehicles, as well as sales updates that are pertinent to the Australian market.

    Featured Guests

    The podcast is expected to showcase experts from both local and international backgrounds. The lineup for the initial episodes features notable guests such as Michelle Nazzarri, the founder and CEO of FONZ electric motorbikes; Tim Washington, founder and CEO of JET Charging; Birdie Schmidt from the National Roads and Motorists’ Association; and Sarah Aubrey, known for her work with Electrify This.

    Dee expresses his enthusiasm about addressing misconceptions surrounding electric vehicles. “What we are aiming to do is to clarify what’s real and what’s not. Currently, there are 300,000 electric vehicles on Australian roads, but we want to see more people driving EVs. That’s why this partnership with EVDirect and BYD for the podcast is so exciting,” he stated.

    Sales Trends

    In February 2025, Australians purchased 5,684 fully electric vehicles, which is nearly a 50 percent decrease compared to the previous year. This decline is largely due to falling sales from Tesla, although the brand still led the sales rankings. BYD managed to have two models in the top ten: the Sealion 7 and the Atto 3.

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