Category: Audio

  • Jabra Unveils 2nd Gen Elite 10 & Elite 8 Active with LE Audio Case

    Jabra Unveils 2nd Gen Elite 10 & Elite 8 Active with LE Audio Case

    Jabra has announced it will discontinue its Elite series of consumer earbuds to focus on expanding its professional audio, video, and hearing product lines. This decision follows the recent launch of the Elite 10 and Elite 8 Gen 2 earbuds.

    Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2

    Despite the discontinuation, Jabra reassures customers that the new Elite 10 and Elite 8 Gen 2 will remain available and supported. Below are the details of these newly released earbuds.

    Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2:
    The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 comes with several notable features, including an LE Audio smart case. This technology enables the case to function as a wireless audio transmitter. It allows the case to connect to devices that lack Bluetooth capability, such as airline entertainment systems or gym equipment, by using a cable with a 3.5mm jack or USB-C connector, and then transmit the audio to your earbuds via LE Audio.

    Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 LE Audio Smart Case
    The model also features enhanced Spatial Sound with Dolby Head Tracking for an improved Dolby Atmos experience. The Jabra Advanced Active Noise Cancellation is now up to twice as powerful as the earlier Elite 10.

    Call quality has been upgraded with six microphones and effective noise-reduction algorithms. The new Natural HearThrough feature with better wind-noise detection is now twice as effective. These earbuds come with 10mm drivers and a semi-open design featuring Jabra ComfortFit technology. They offer up to 6 hours of battery life (27 hours with the case) with ANC enabled and have an IP57 rating for splash and dust resistance.

    Additional features include Bluetooth multipoint connection, Fast Pair, Swift Pair, and Spotify Tap playback. The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 is priced at $280 and will be available in mid-June in titanium black, gloss black, cocoa, and two new colors: denim and soft white.

    Jabra Elite 8 Gen 2:
    The Jabra Elite 8 Gen 2 also boasts several updates, including an LE Audio smart case for streaming audio from non-Bluetooth devices. It features enhanced Spatial Sound powered by Dolby Audio and Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, which is now up to twice as strong as the preceding Elite 8 Active.

    The Natural HearThrough feature now has superior wind-noise detection and is twice as effective. Call performance is improved with six microphones, a wind-protecting mesh, and a noise-cancellation algorithm. These earbuds are fully sweat-proof and waterproof with an IP68 rating for the earbuds and an IP54 rating for the case.

    They provide a secure fit with Jabra ShakeGrip technology and up to 8 hours of battery life with ANC on (32 hours with the case). Additional features include stable smartwatch connectivity, Swift Pair, Google Fast Pair, and Spotify Tap playback, along with Bluetooth multipoint connection.

    The Jabra Elite 8 Gen 2 is priced at $230 and will be available in mid-June in navy, black, and two new colors: coral and olive.

    Jabra Unveils 2nd Gen Elite 10 & Elite 8 Active with LE Audio Case
    Jabra Unveils 2nd Gen Elite 10 & Elite 8 Active with LE Audio Case
    Jabra Unveils 2nd Gen Elite 10 & Elite 8 Active with LE Audio Case
  • Moondrop MIAD 01: The Ultimate Audiophile Phone

    Moondrop MIAD 01: The Ultimate Audiophile Phone

    Remember the days when smartphones weren’t just glass-and-metal slabs? When each model had its own character designed to resonate with different audiences? Those days seem to be fading, but some companies are attempting to revive that spirit. Nothing, for example, made waves with a unique, affordable transparent phone that shunned bloatware—refreshingly distinct in a market full of lookalikes.

    Now, Moondrop, renowned for high-fidelity audio gear, has introduced the MIAD 01. Tailored for audiophiles who demand superior sound quality on the go, what sets this phone apart? Let’s delve into it.

    Dual DACs and Headphone Jacks

    The MIAD 01 is designed with a strong focus on high-fidelity audio. Unlike most modern phones that have eliminated the headphone jack, this device features two: a standard 3.5mm jack and a 4.4mm balanced jack. The 3.5mm jack serves casual listeners, while the 4.4mm jack caters to audiophiles using balanced headphones for superior signal separation and clarity.

    The standout feature is its dual Cirrus Logic MasterHiFi DAC chips. These DACs convert digital audio signals into analog signals for headphones. While most phones have a single, basic DAC, the MIAD 01 uses dual high-fidelity DACs with support for 32-bit audio processing, significantly enhancing sound clarity and detail. This theoretically allows for a wider dynamic range and reduced noise levels, offering a cleaner listening experience.

    Additional Audio Features

    Moondrop doesn’t stop at dual DACs. The audio circuit boasts a 6-layer gold-sinking PCB to dissipate heat and minimize electrical interference. Additionally, an independent Low-Dropout Voltage Regulator (LDO) ensures a clean, stable power supply for the audio components.

    The phone includes a 100-level hardware DAC volume control for precise adjustments without sacrificing audio quality. Audiophiles can also customize EQ settings through a dedicated app. However, the true benefits of these features depend on the quality of your headphones or earphones—lower-end products may not fully exploit the MIAD 01’s capabilities.

    Mid-Range Specs

    Outside its audio capabilities, the MIAD 01 offers a conventional mid-range phone experience. It features a 6.7-inch 1080p OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. Powered by a mid-range MediaTek Dimensity 7050 processor, it handles everyday tasks but may not impress power users. The camera system includes a 64MP main sensor and an 8MP ultrawide sensor, which are decent but not groundbreaking. Moondrop admits the camera is functional but not exceptional.

    The phone runs on Android 13, free from bloatware and intrusive data collection, but lacks Google Mobile Services (GMS) certification. Users will need to sideload essential apps like Gmail and Maps. It is powered by a 5000mAh battery supporting 33W USB-PD charging and offers 5Gbps USB 3.1 connectivity.

    Design-wise, the MIAD 01 is quite thick, measuring 9.15mm and weighing 202 grams. It has a unique look with a raised bar housing the camera module, MIAD 01 branding, and orange accents, complemented by a textured finish on the lower half.

    Price and Availability

    The Moondrop MIAD 01 is priced at CNY 2499 (~$349), placing it in the mid-range segment. It is currently available through select e-commerce partners and authorized stores in China, with no global availability details announced yet.

    Here’s a quick recap of its specs:

    MIAD 01 Specs

    • Display: 6.7 inches Curved AMOLED, 2460 x 1080 pixels, 120 Hz refresh rate, 1920 Hz high-frequency PWM dimming
    • Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7050, 2 x ARM Cortex-A78 @ 2.6 GHz, 6 x ARM Cortex-A55 @ 2 GHz, Mali-G68 MC4 graphics
    • RAM: 12GB LPDDR4x
    • Storage: 256GB UFS 3.1, microSD card reader (up to 2TB)
    • Rear Cameras: Dual – 64MP primary, 8MP wide-angle, LED Flash
    • Front Camera: 32MP
    • Audio: 3.5mm unbalanced + 4.4mm balanced jacks, Stereo speakers, Dual Cirrus Logic MasterHiFi DAC, 6-layer gold-plated audio circuit, 132 dB dynamic range, 117 dB signal-to-noise ratio
    • Ports: 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C (5 Gbps), 2 x audio jacks, 1 x microSD card reader
    • Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth (SB/AAC/LDAC codecs supported), NFC, 4G LTE / 5G
    • Battery: 5,000 mAh
    • Charging: 33W (wired)
    • Security: In-display optical fingerprint sensor
    • OS & Software: Android 13 (ships without Google Mobile Services, which users can install manually)
    • Weight: 202 grams

    Conclusion: In its Own Niche

    The MIAD 01 carves out a unique niche in the smartphone market. For audiophiles, its dual DACs and headphone jacks are highly attractive. However, its mid-range processing power, potentially underwhelming camera system, and lack of pre-installed Google Mobile Services could be drawbacks for some. As a newcomer to the smartphone market, Moondrop’s long-term software support is also uncertain.

    Moondrop MIAD 01: The Ultimate Audiophile Phone
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  • Realme Buds Air 6 Pro & GT 6 Launch in India on June 20

    Realme Buds Air 6 Pro & GT 6 Launch in India on June 20

    Realme is gearing up to launch the Realme Buds Air 6 Pro in India on June 20th, following their recent release in China. The earbuds will be available for purchase starting at 1:30 PM via Flipkart and the official Realme website. Last month, Realme introduced the Realme Buds Air 6 Pro in China along with the Realme Buds Air 6 and Realme GT Neo 6.

    Realme Buds Air 6 Pro Specifications

    The Realme Buds Air 6 Pro boasts up to 50dB of active noise cancellation (ANC) and LDAC connectivity. Equipped with a six-mic system and Hi-Res Audio, the earbuds feature dual drivers: an 11mm bass driver and a 6mm micro-planar tweeter.

    These earbuds are designed to support a 360-degree Spatial Audio Effect for an immersive sound experience. They also allow dual device connections, enabling users to pair them with two devices simultaneously, such as a smartphone and a tablet.

    The Buds Air 6 Pro offers up to 10 hours of playback on a single charge and up to 40 hours of total battery life when used with the charging case. Additionally, a quick 10-minute charge can provide up to seven hours of usage.

    Pricing and Availability

    The price for the Indian market hasn't been disclosed yet. In China, the Realme Buds Air 6 Pro was launched at 469 Yuan (approximately ₹5,500). The earlier model, the Realme Buds Air 5 Pro, was introduced in India at ₹4,999. It's likely that the new model will be priced similarly.

    Upcoming Launches

    On June 20th, Realme is also set to unveil the Realme GT 6 in India and other global markets. The company has confirmed that the device will feature a 50 MP Sony LYT-808 primary camera with optical image stabilization. Powered by a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chip, the device promises enhanced image signal processing capabilities. For a preview of some camera samples from this upcoming device, you can click this link.

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  • Realme Buds Air6 Pro Launching with Realme GT 6

    Realme Buds Air6 Pro Launching with Realme GT 6

    The Realme GT 6 is scheduled for release in India on June 20. Alongside this smartphone, Realme has also announced the debut of a new TWS earphone, the Realme Buds Air6 Pro. This follows the launch of the Buds Air6 last month, which received a hands-on review. The Pro model is expected to offer slightly enhanced specifications, which have been detailed on the product's microsite.

    Realme Buds Air6 Pro to Launch Next Week

    The Realme Buds Air6 Pro retains the in-ear design with a stem and angled earbuds featuring silicone ear tips, similar to the Buds Air6. These earphones are equipped with Hi-Fi quality dual drivers, including an 11mm bass driver and a 6mm micro-planar tweeter. They are said to support Hi-Res audio with LDAC codec to ensure streaming of original quality audio.

    The Buds Air6 Pro is teased to come with 50dB active noise cancellation and will feature six microphones to ensure clear call quality. These TWS earphones also offer 360-degree spatial audio for an immersive listening experience, along with a personalized audio algorithm. The Buds Air6 Pro are claimed to provide 10 hours of usage on a single charge, with the battery life extending to 40 hours when using the case. Additionally, they support Google Fast Pair and can connect to two devices simultaneously.

    Pricing and Availability

    Details regarding the pricing and availability of the Realme Buds Air6 Pro will be revealed next week. The earphones will be available for purchase on Flipkart and Realme’s official website.

    Meanwhile, the Realme GT 6 will be powered by a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor and will feature a 5,500mAh battery with 120W fast charging support.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Now Under Rs. 10,000 on Amazon India

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Now Under Rs. 10,000 on Amazon India

    Samsung is preparing to unveil its Galaxy Buds 3 series earbuds, likely in conjunction with the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6 smartphones. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, which were introduced in August 2022, are now available at a significant discount in India.

    Initially priced at ₹17,999, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro can now be purchased for as low as ₹9,999. On Amazon India, the earbuds are listed at ₹10,949. Additionally, there is a ₹1,250 discount available for HDFC Bank Credit Card EMI transactions over 6 or 9 months. For those preferring shorter commitments, there’s also a ₹1,000 discount on a 3-month EMI using an HDFC Bank debit card.

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Specifications

    The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro features a design akin to the original Galaxy Buds Pro, complete with silicone ear tips that enhance fit and noise isolation. They come equipped with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) capable of reducing ambient noise by up to 33dB and also offer a transparency mode.

    These earbuds utilize Bluetooth 5.3 and boast an IPX7 water resistance rating. Each earbud is fitted with a 10mm driver, delivering 24-bit Hi-Fi sound for clear and rich audio. They support 360-degree audio for an immersive listening experience and incorporate Dolby Head Tracking for a cinematic soundscape.

    For call quality, the Buds 2 Pro are outfitted with three microphones—two external and one internal—to minimize background noise. The Voice Detect feature automatically transitions from ANC to Ambient Mode when you start speaking, making conversations clearer.

    Samsung states that the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offers up to 8 hours of battery life on a single charge with ANC turned off and up to 29 hours in total when used with the charging case. The earbuds can be recharged via a USB-C port or wirelessly, with a quick five-minute charge providing around 55 minutes of listening time.

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Now Under Rs. 10,000 on Amazon India
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  • Marshall Minor IV Bluetooth LE, Wireless Charging Launched in India

    Marshall Minor IV Bluetooth LE, Wireless Charging Launched in India

    Marshall has widened its selection of TWS earphones in India, which now includes just three models. The newest addition from the renowned British audio brand is the Marshall Minor IV true wireless earbuds. This model showcases the company’s classic design aesthetic, somewhat resembling Apple’s AirPods. However, the TWS earphones do not feature ANC despite their price point. Let’s delve into what the device offers straight out of the box.

    Marshall Minor IV specifications and features

    The Marshall Minor IV are in-ear TWS earphones that come with silicone ear tips. They boast a leather-like texture and knurled stems for an upscale appearance, with the bottom part of the stem highlighted in Gold. These earphones are also IPX4 water-resistant. Users can perform various functions by tapping on the stems, and music will automatically pause when the earphones are removed and resume when reinserted.

    Equipped with 12mm dynamic drivers, the Marshall Minor IV promises to deliver the brand’s signature sound, consistent with other devices in their lineup. The earbuds are acoustically tuned to offer a well-balanced sound and provide excellent call quality without distractions. They are Bluetooth LE audio-ready, ensuring higher audio quality and future-proofing.

    Connectivity and Battery Life

    The Marshall Minor IV supports Bluetooth Multipoint, allowing connection to multiple devices simultaneously. The earphones are said to provide 7 hours of use on a single charge, with the battery life extending up to 30 hours when using the charging case. An in-app battery management feature is included to help prolong battery life, along with over-the-air software updates for ongoing improvements. The device also supports wireless charging and has a USB-C port for added convenience.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Marshall Minor IV is priced at Rs 11,999 and is available for pre-order on Amazon, with shipping starting on June 15. Alternatively, they can be purchased from Marshall’s official website.

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  • Edifier M125 Bluetooth Speaker Sale: Now Only $23

    Edifier M125 Bluetooth Speaker Sale: Now Only $23

    Edifier has unveiled its latest wireless portable speaker, the Edifier M125, which features a highly compact design and Bluetooth compatibility, along with the ability to play audio locally.

    Speaker Specifications

    The Edifier M125 is equipped with dual 36mm full-range speakers and an 86 x 35mm large-size passive radiator, delivering a total output of 2x 4W. While it offers Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, it employs the SBC audio codec, which may result in compressed audio quality compared to speakers that support codecs like AAC.

    Compact Design and Functionality

    Measuring 17.6cm in length, 6.7cm in width, and 2.9cm in thickness, and weighing 260g, the Edifier M125 is remarkably compact. It can play audio via Bluetooth and includes an SD card slot for playing music stored locally on a memory card. Charging is done through its USB Type-C port.

    Connectivity and Battery Life

    The Edifier M125 supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices. You can control the settings using Edifier’s mobile app on your smartphone. The speaker houses a 2600mAh battery, providing up to 13 hours of continuous playback. Initially launched in China, the Edifier M125 is priced at 169 CNY, which is roughly 23 USD.

    Edifier M125 Bluetooth Speaker Sale: Now Only
    Edifier M125 Bluetooth Speaker Sale: Now Only
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  • Nu Republic Launches Cyberstud Spin TWS Earbuds with Fidget Spinner

    Nu Republic Launches Cyberstud Spin TWS Earbuds with Fidget Spinner

    Nu Republic, an Indian brand renowned for its wearable technology, has just unveiled an intriguing new audio product with a standout design. The company had previously hinted at the Cyberstud Spin, a TWS earbud that also functions as a fidget spinner. Now, this innovative hearable has officially debuted in India.

    Nu Republic Cyberstud Spin: Versatile TWS Meets Fidget Spinner

    The truly wireless earbuds feature a unique 2-in-1 design with vibrant colors. Developed as part of Nu Republic’s “wear tech” lineup, the standout feature is its charging case, which sports a metallic finish and a special design that allows it to be used as a fidget spinner. The earbuds have a semi-transparent appearance and boast Nu Republic’s proprietary X-Bass technology, thanks to its 13mm Neodymium audio drivers, which ensures clear vocals and rich bass.

    The Cyberstud Spin connects via Bluetooth 5.3 and includes a dedicated gaming mode that reduces latency to just 40ms. It offers a connectivity range of up to 15 meters. According to the brand, a single full charge provides up to 70 hours of usage and supports fast charging. The earbuds also feature ENC (Environment Noise Cancellation) for better call quality. With an IPX5 rating, they are resistant to splashes and sweat, making them ideal for rigorous workouts. Additional features include touch controls for ease of use, 310 hours of standby time, and Dual Mode (Game/Music).

    Pricing and Availability

    Nu Republic announced the launch in the Indian market today (12th June 2024). The starting price is 2,499 INR (approximately 30 US Dollars). These earbuds are available for purchase on the brand’s official website. If you’re interested in this audio product, you can click here to visit the official listing.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 & Buds 3 Pro Pass BIS Certification Pre-Launch

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 & Buds 3 Pro Pass BIS Certification Pre-Launch

    Samsung is gearing up to enhance its audio lineup with the release of the Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. These new models are expected to debut at the forthcoming Unpacked event, alongside the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Z Fold 6. The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro was recently leaked, showcasing a design overhaul. Moreover, a recent certification by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) confirms that these earbuds will soon be available in India, following their global launch.

    The BIS certification lists the devices with model numbers SM-R630 for the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and SM-R530 for the Galaxy Buds 3. While the listing does not provide specific details regarding the features or specifications, it does suggest that an Indian release is imminent.

    Design Overhaul

    Samsung appears to be moving away from the previous bean-shaped design, opting instead for a stem design. This change aligns the new Buds more closely with competitors like Apple’s AirPods and OnePlus Buds. The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro will feature a dual-driver design and support Bluetooth 5.4, enhancing audio performance. Additionally, the Pro version will come with an IP57 rating, ensuring resistance to water and dust, and is expected to offer up to 30 hours of battery life.

    Anticipated Features

    As the Galaxy Buds 3 series begins to appear on more certification websites, more details about their features and specifications are likely to emerge. For now, let’s examine the specifications and features of the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro to get a sense of what to expect from its successor.

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Specs

    The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro boasts silicone ear tips for a secure fit and effective noise isolation. These earbuds come equipped with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that reduces ambient noise by up to 33dB and include a transparency mode. They support Bluetooth 5.3 and have an IPX7 rating for water resistance.

    With 10mm drivers and 24-bit Hi-Fi sound, the Buds 2 Pro deliver clear and rich audio. The earbuds also support 360-degree audio and Dolby Head Tracking for a more immersive listening experience. Three microphones (two external, one internal) ensure clear calls and minimize background noise.

    The Voice Detect feature switches the earbuds from ANC to Ambient Mode when you start speaking to someone. According to Samsung, the earbuds can last up to 8 hours on a single charge without ANC, and up to 29 hours total with the charging case. They support USB-C and wireless charging, offering about 55 minutes of listening time with just a five-minute charge.

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 & Buds 3 Pro Pass BIS Certification Pre-Launch
    Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 & Buds 3 Pro Pass BIS Certification Pre-Launch
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  • Spotify to Charge $5 More Monthly for Premium Hi-Fi Audio Feature

    Spotify to Charge $5 More Monthly for Premium Hi-Fi Audio Feature

    Spotify is reportedly close to introducing a high-fidelity audio add-on for its streaming service, according to a Bloomberg report. This new premium tier is expected to cost an additional $5 per month and will come with several new features, aside from the enhanced audio quality.

    Existing Spotify Premium subscribers will have the option to integrate the HiFi tier into their current plan, resulting in a total monthly cost of $16.99, considering the upcoming base price increase to $11.99 for Premium. According to Bloomberg, this add-on will also feature playlist creation tools tailored for specific activities, dates, or seasons. Although Spotify had initially announced its HiFi audio plans for 2021, the launch was never realized. Since then, there have been various speculations regarding this premium tier. Last year, Bloomberg mentioned a potential “Supremium” HiFi plan at a higher price, while The Wall Street Journal indicated that the add-on might include a remix feature that allows users to adjust playback speed.

    Features and Leaks

    In 2023, code discovered within the Spotify app provided additional hints about the potential features of the HiFi add-on. This leaked code suggested the inclusion of 24-bit lossless audio, AI-driven playlist creation, and a mood-based song filtering tool for playlists. More recently, a Reddit user found code mentioning “lossless has arrived” within the app. Another user later shared leaked UI elements that referenced lossless quality reaching up to 2,117kbps and the availability of 24-bit/44.1kHz for certain songs using the FLAC audio format.

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