Category: Audio

  • Sennheiser CX 80U & HD 400U Headphones with USB-C Support

    Sennheiser CX 80U & HD 400U Headphones with USB-C Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sennheiser launched wired USB-C in-ear CX 80U and over-ear HD 400U headphones for smartphone users.
    2. Both models support digital music streaming up to 24-bit, 96 kHz, reducing audio compression compared to Bluetooth.
    3. The HD 400U offers a richer sound, while the CX 80U has a more neutral sound profile, both with a U-shaped frequency response enhancing bass.
    4. The HD 400U has a frequency range of 18 Hz to 20 kHz, while the CX 80U ranges from 17 Hz to 20 kHz, with SPL ratings close to 120 dB and low total harmonic distortion.
    5. Pricing: CX 80U at $39.95 and HD 400U at $99.95, available from authorized dealers and online.

    Sennheiser has introduced the new in-ear CX 80U and over-ear HD 400U headphones, designed for smartphone users who prefer to connect via a wired USB-C cable.

    Similar Models with Enhanced Features

    These two models are quite alike to their 3.5 mm counterparts, the CX 80S and HD 400S. They both support digital music streaming up to 24-bit, 96 kHz. This feature helps to avoid the audio compression that often happens when streaming music wirelessly through Bluetooth using SBC or AAC codecs.

    Sound Quality and Tuning

    The tuning of both headphones follows a U-shaped frequency response, which enhances the bass. According to Sennheiser, the HD 400U has a richer timbre, while the CX 80U offers a more neutral sound profile.

    The HD 400U boasts a frequency response range from 18 Hz to 20 kHz, with a maximum sound pressure level (SPL) of 120 dB SPL and total harmonic distortion (THD) below 0.5%. On the other hand, the CX 80U features a frequency response from 17 Hz to 20 kHz, achieving a maximum SPL of 119 dB SPL and also a THD under 0.5%.

    Microphone and Pricing Details

    Both models come equipped with an in-line MEMS microphone for calls, featuring a frequency response that spans from 100 Hz to 10 kHz, and offers a 24-bit, 48 kHz output.

    The suggested retail price (MSRP) for the CX 80U is $39.95, while the HD 400U is priced at $99.95. Consumers can find both headphones available from authorized dealers and on sennheiser-hearing.com as of now. Shoppers can also explore the Sennheiser store on Amazon for these products.

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  • Medicom Toy & Rinaro Launch Limited-Edition Be@rbrick Speaker

    Medicom Toy & Rinaro Launch Limited-Edition Be@rbrick Speaker

    Key Takeaways

    1. Limited-edition Be@rbrick Audio x Maneki Neko Bluetooth speaker launches on January 31, 2026, priced at $999.
    2. Inspired by Be@rbrick 400%, it features a shiny gold exterior with advanced Rinaro QUAD’360 sound technology for high-quality audio.
    3. Users can control playback and volume by twisting the speaker’s paws; it offers up to 6 hours of playback time and recharges in 1.5 hours.
    4. Subscribers to the newsletter can order the speaker a day before the general public, with deliveries starting in early February 2026.
    5. Speaker dimensions are 132 x 280 x 70 mm, and it weighs 0.87 kg.

    Medicom Toy and Rinaro Isodynamics have announced the limited-edition Be@rbrick Audio x Maneki Neko Bluetooth speaker (BB4L2), which is set to launch on January 31, 2026, priced at $999. Subscribers to the newsletter will get a chance to order the special speaker a whole day before everyone else, with deliveries anticipated to start in early February 2026.

    Design and Technology

    This unique Maneki Neko speaker is inspired by the Be@rbrick 400%, a collectible toy introduced by Medicom in Japan back in 2001. The shiny metallic gold exterior contains two tweeters and two woofers, utilizing Rinaro’s QUAD’360 sound technology to deliver omnidirectional audio across a frequency range stretching from 90 Hz to 20 kHz, boasting a total output of 20 watts. Additionally, two units can be paired together for a stereo sound experience.

    User Experience

    Users can easily manage music playback and adjust the volume by twisting the paws of the speaker. According to the manufacturer, this Bluetooth 5-enabled device offers up to 6 hours of playback time, recharging quickly in just 1.5 hours. It also features a replaceable 10.36 Wh battery.

    Dimensions and Weight

    The dimensions of the Maneki Neko speaker are 132 x 280 x 70 mm (5.2 x 11 x 2.7 in.), and it has a weight of 0.87 kg (1.91 lbs.).

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  • Free Beyerdynamic Headphone Lab Software for Studio Quality Sound

    Free Beyerdynamic Headphone Lab Software for Studio Quality Sound

    Key Takeaways

    1. Beyerdynamic has launched the free Headphone Lab plugin for DT-series studio headphones and in-ear earphones, providing a neutral sound reference for mixing on the go.

    2. The plugin is compatible with modern DAWs that support VST3, AU, or AAX formats, including Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Cubase, and more, on Windows 10 or macOS 14 and above.

    3. Headphone Lab aligns headphone sound reproduction with a tailored Beyerdynamic sound profile, similar to the Harman Target Curve, to ensure accurate mixing.

    4. Users can customize virtual speaker placement and room settings, and input their head shape and ear size for a more precise audio simulation.

    5. The plugin uses factory calibration data from specific DT-series models to adjust for individual headphone variances, enhancing overall performance accuracy.

    Beyerdynamic has introduced the free Headphone Lab plugin, designed to mimic professional sound monitors using their current DT-series studio headphones and in-ear earphones. This tool gives users a calibrated, neutral sound reference, enabling precise sound mixing while on the move.

    Compatibility with Digital Audio Workstations

    The plugin works with modern digital audio workstations (DAWs) that accept VST3, AU, or AAX plugins. Some compatible software includes Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Cubase, Ableton Live, Studio One, and FL Studio, all running on Windows 10 or macOS 14 or above.

    Sound Profile and Mixing Accuracy

    Headphone Lab modifies headphone sound reproduction to align with the Beyerdynamic sound profile, which is akin to the Harman Target Curve, but specifically tailored for professional production. This sound profile strives to deliver a neutral audio experience that supports accurate mixing.

    The software incorporates HRTFs (Head-Related Transfer Functions), interaural time differences (ITD), and level differences (ILD) in its crossfeed model, effectively simulating sounds that seem to come from studio monitors. This feature allows users to experience stereo sound with convincing depth, panning, and imaging, closely resembling the feel of a professional audio studio.

    Customization for Individual Users

    Users can customize the virtual speaker placement to angles of 40°, 60°, or 80°, and set the virtual room to a dry environment without sound reflections or a more life-like wet setting that includes simulated room echoes. Additionally, users can input their own head shape and ear size for a more precise virtual studio simulation.

    While all DT-series headphones are calibrated to serve as reference headphones, models like the DT 700 PRO X, DT 900 PRO X, DT 1770 PRO MKII, and DT 1990 PRO MKII come with factory calibration data specific to each unit. The Headphone Lab plugin utilizes this factory calibration data to adjust for individual headphone variances, enhancing performance accuracy even further.

    Beyerdynamic’s new release is an innovative way to enhance sound mixing capabilities, making professional audio work more accessible than ever.

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  • HMD Dub X50 Pro: ANC Earbuds with 60-Hour Battery for €25

    HMD Dub X50 Pro: ANC Earbuds with 60-Hour Battery for €25

    Key Takeaways

    1. HMD Global has launched the budget-friendly Dub X50 Pro true wireless earbuds priced at around $28.
    2. The earbuds are IP54 rated, making them resistant to rain and sweat, suitable for active use.
    3. They offer a battery life of 15.8 hours, or up to 60 hours with the charging case, with ANC turned off.
    4. Features include four microphones for calls and voice assistant interaction, and they support Bluetooth 5.3 with Multipoint connectivity.
    5. The Dub X50 Pro will launch in select areas this January, with a wider global release expected soon after.

    Following the release of their top-tier Amped Buds, HMD Global is now rolling out the Dub X50 Pro, a more budget-friendly option priced at around $28. These true wireless earbuds (TWS) are said to feature notable capabilities and a sleek look.

    Design and Durability

    The earbuds come in silver or blue and are IP54 rated, which means they are resistant to rain and sweat, making them ideal for active use. HMD Global boasts a battery life of 15.8 hours, or up to 60 hours when using the charging case, achieved at 60% volume with active noise cancellation (ANC) turned off. Besides ANC, the HMD Dub X50 Pro also includes environmental noise cancellation (ENC), which helps minimize background noise during calls.

    Features and Connectivity

    Equipped with four microphones, these earbuds are useful not just for calls but also for interacting with voice assistants, which can be triggered by tapping the earbuds. They are powered by a modern Bluetooth 5.3 chip, which supports Bluetooth Multipoint, allowing connections to two devices at the same time. However, HMD Global has chosen not to incorporate Hi-Fi codecs into these earbuds.

    The HMD Dub X50 Pro is set to launch in select areas this January, with a broader global release expected to follow soon after. In the Philippines, for instance, the earbuds will be available for around $28.

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  • Steve Downes: AI Voice Cloning Crosses a Line, Must Stop

    Steve Downes: AI Voice Cloning Crosses a Line, Must Stop

    Key Takeaways

    1. Steve Downes, the voice of Master Chief, is uncomfortable with AI-generated replicas of his voice, feeling it crosses a line.
    2. He acknowledges the potential benefits of AI but is concerned about unauthorized use that misleads fans.
    3. Downes differentiates between harmless fan-made projects and deceptive AI-generated content.
    4. He emphasizes that AI voice cloning can deprive actors of their work and authenticity.
    5. Experts predict a rise in AI-generated voice scams, making it harder to distinguish between real and fake voices.

    Steve Downes, who provides the voice for Master Chief in the Halo series, recently expressed his discomfort with the growing number of AI-generated replicas of his voice. He mentioned that this situation “crosses a line that gets into an area I’m uncomfortable with.” Like many voice actors whose work is duplicated without payment, he wishes for this practice to cease.

    Concerns Raised in an AMA

    During a recent Ask Me Anything (AMA) on his YouTube channel, Downes shared his thoughts. He recognized the potential benefits of AI and its future advantages, but he voiced concerns about the unauthorized usage of his voice, which can mislead fans into believing they are hearing his actual recordings.

    In the AMA, he stated:

    “One of the things that can be overwhelming when it comes to attention from fans is when AI gets involved. A lot of it is harmless, I suppose, but some of it cannot be harmless. I’ve been very vocal about my feelings on the use of artificial intelligence, which, on the one hand, is inevitable and has many positive effects on not only show business but humanity in general, but can also be a detriment. It can also be something that deprives the actor of his work.”

    Deepfake Technology and Its Impact

    Downes elaborated further on his views:

    “I’ve heard some things online in terms of AI and the reproduction of my voice that sounds like my voice that… like I said, most of the stuff I’ve seen is pretty harmless, but it cannot be that way real quick. So, I’m not a proponent. I don’t like it. I would prefer that it not be done. There’s a lot of fan-made projects out there that are really cool, that are done just from the heart. But when you get to the AI part and deceiving somebody into thinking, in my case, that these are the lines that I actually spoke when they’re not, that’s when we cross a line that gets into an area that I’m not comfortable with. I’ll go on the record with that.”

    The Future of AI Voice Cloning

    The rise of deepfakes and voice imitation technology has made it nearly impossible to distinguish between real and AI-generated voices in recent years. Experts predict that by 2026, there will be a significant increase in fake AI-generated voice-overs, heightening the risk of fraud. Currently, many unsuspecting individuals face about 1,000 AI-generated scam calls daily.

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  • Jabra Evolve3 Headphones: 120-Hour Battery & No Mic Arm

    Jabra Evolve3 Headphones: 120-Hour Battery & No Mic Arm

    Key Takeaways

    1. Jabra has launched the Evolve3 75 and Evolve3 85 headphones aimed at high-end productivity users.
    2. The Evolve3 series features a new design without a dedicated boom microphone, using multiple microphones and advanced software for noise cancellation.
    3. Key features include adaptive noise cancellation, Spatial Sound, replaceable batteries, high-fidelity audio codec support, and wireless charging.
    4. The Evolve3 85 offers up to 120 hours of battery life (music) and 25 hours (calls), while the Evolve3 75 offers up to 110 hours (music) and 22 hours (calls).
    5. Pricing is set at $649 for the Evolve3 85 and $463 for the Evolve3 75, with availability starting March 1 for the black color option.

    Following the official announcements made earlier this month, Jabra has officially introduced the Evolve3 75 and Evolve3 85 headphones, targeting the high-end productivity market. Notably, the Evolve3 series brings a significant alteration from previous models—an update that may not sit well with everyone.

    Changes to the Design

    Unlike earlier versions, the Evolve3 series lacks a dedicated boom microphone. This change makes the Evolve3 resemble other high-end headphones much more closely. The headphones will employ a traditional multiple microphone system, complemented by advanced software and built-in intelligence aimed at eliminating background noise.

    Features and Performance

    Similar to other high-end headphones on the market, the Evolve3 includes adaptive noise cancellation. Other key features comprise Spatial Sound, replaceable batteries, and support for high-fidelity audio codecs (LC3, SBC, AAC), alongside wireless charging. The Evolve3 85, which is the over-ear model, boasts a claimed battery life of 120 hours for music and 25 hours for calls (with ANC switched off). In contrast, the on-ear Evolve3 75 is rated for 110 hours and 22 hours for music and calls, respectively.

    Of course, actual battery life can only be confirmed through independent testing, but the reported specifications are certainly remarkable. There’s also fast charging technology available, allowing for 10 hours of usage from just a quick 10-minute charge.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Jabra Evolve3 85 will be priced at an MSRP of $649, while the Evolve3 75 comes in at $463. Interestingly, the black color option for both models will hit the stores starting March 1, while the warm gray variant will be released a month later. For those not looking to spend this much on headphones, the Sony WH-1000-XM5 is currently listed at just $298 on Amazon and could be a great alternative.

    Jabra, as highlighted by TechPowerUp.

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  • JBL BandBox Solo & Trio: Bluetooth Speaker with Amplifier

    JBL BandBox Solo & Trio: Bluetooth Speaker with Amplifier

    Key Takeaways

    1. JBL has launched the BandBox series, featuring the BandBox Solo and BandBox Trio, set to release in February 2026, priced at $249 and $599 respectively.

    2. Both products offer advanced audio features, including AI-driven real-time separation of vocals and instruments, allowing musicians to customize their tracks.

    3. The BandBox Solo is designed for individual musicians, with 18 watts RMS output, inputs for guitar and microphone, and various effects and tools accessible via the JBL One app.

    4. The BandBox Trio includes enhanced capabilities, such as four instrument inputs, a built-in four-channel mixer, 135 watts output, and a color LCD display.

    5. The BandBox Trio can provide up to ten hours of playback on a full charge with its replaceable battery, making it suitable for extended use.

    JBL has launched the BandBox series, which consists of the BandBox Solo and BandBox Trio. These two products merge an amplifier with a portable Bluetooth speaker. They are expected to hit the market in February 2026, with prices set at $249 for the BandBox Solo and $599 for the BandBox Trio.

    Advanced Audio Features

    Both speakers deliver the renowned JBL sound quality and come with AI-driven real-time separation of vocals and instruments. They also include various integrated effects and tools. The Stem AI technology is capable of isolating, diminishing, or even eliminating specific parts of a track, such as vocals, guitar, or drums. This allows musicians to create personalized tracks that highlight their own instrument while leaving the original song intact. This feature is particularly useful for musicians during practice sessions, jamming, and live performances.

    Specifications for Solo Musicians

    The JBL BandBox Solo is specifically tailored for individual musicians and boasts an RMS output of 18 watts. It features inputs for both a guitar and a microphone, making it ideal for guitar players, singer-songwriters, and casual musicians. Among its features are effects like reverb, phaser, and chorus, as well as tools like a looper, pitch shifter, and tuner, all manageable through the JBL One app. The BandBox Solo can also connect to a laptop using USB-C for direct audio transmission.

    Enhanced Capabilities of the Trio

    On the other hand, the JBL BandBox Trio comes with more sophisticated features. It has four instrument inputs, a built-in four-channel mixer, and improved controls for levels, tone, and effects. The device can provide up to ten hours of playback on a full charge of its replaceable battery. Additional specifications include a powerful 135-watt output, a 6.5-inch woofer, and two 1-inch tweeters, along with microphone effects and a color LCD display that round out the impressive features of the JBL BandBox Trio.

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  • Audeze Launches LCD-5 Master-Grade Planar Magnetic Headphones

    Audeze Launches LCD-5 Master-Grade Planar Magnetic Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Audeze has launched the LCD-5s, an upgrade to the previous LCD-5 model, priced at $4,500.
    2. The LCD-5s feature updated 90 mm planar magnetic drivers for high-resolution sound with a frequency range of 5 Hz to 50 kHz and low distortion.
    3. They incorporate ultra-thin Parallel Uniforce diaphragms and SLAM technology for enhanced bass and sound accuracy.
    4. Audeze recommends an audio source with over 500 mW of power for optimal performance, despite the headphones’ low impedance of 30 ohms.
    5. The LCD-5s come with a 4-pin XLR balanced cable, adapters, and a stylish aluminum travel case, and are available for purchase on Audeze’s website and Amazon.

    Audeze has introduced the LCD-5s, their premium headphones that feature ultra-thin planar drivers. This new model is an upgrade from the previous LCD-5 headphones which were released in 2021 and had a suggested retail price of $4,500.

    Enhanced Audio Experience

    The LCD-5s are equipped with updated 90 mm planar magnetic drivers that are capable of delivering high-resolution sound. They boast a frequency range from 5 Hz to 50 kHz and have a total harmonic distortion (THD) of less than 0.1% at 100 dB. The drivers incorporate ultra-thin Parallel Uniforce diaphragms and Symmetric Linear Acoustic Modulator (SLAM) technology, which Audeze claims results in impressive low-end bass and precise sound reproduction.

    Power Recommendations

    Even though the LCD-5s have a low impedance of 30 ohms, Audeze suggests using an audio source that can output more than 500 mW of power. The headphones are capable of handling a maximum input power of 5 W RMS. Weighing in at 475 g (1.05 lbs), these headphones come with a 4-pin XLR balanced cable and include both 6.3 mm and 3.5 mm adapters, all packaged in a stylish aluminum travel case.

    You can purchase the Audeze LCD-5s directly from the company’s official website or check for their availability at the Audeze store on Amazon. For gamers, Audeze also offers the Maxwell 2 gaming headset, which might be worth considering.

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  • Meze Audio Launches Strada Headphones with Magnetic Ear Pads

    Meze Audio Launches Strada Headphones with Magnetic Ear Pads

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Strada headphones feature 50 mm dynamic drivers with a frequency range of 5 Hz to 30 kHz and less than 0.1% THD at 1 kHz.
    2. They are designed with a magnesium frame and ear cups made from golden-brown Macassar ebony wood, which are magnetically attached for easy replacement.
    3. The headphones include memory foam cushions wrapped in PU leather and have Alcantara lining in the inner ear cups for heat management.
    4. The adjustable headband has soft, breathable padding for comfort, and the headphones weigh 330 g (11.64 oz).
    5. The Meze Audio Strada retails for $799 and is available on the company’s website and Amazon.

    Meze Audio has introduced the Strada closed-back, over-ear dynamic headphones, made for those who love powerful sound.

    Specifications

    These headphones feature 50 mm dynamic drivers, providing a frequency range that spans from 5 Hz to 30 kHz, with a total harmonic distortion (THD) of less than 0.1% at 1 kHz. With an impedance of 40 Ω and a sensitivity rating of 111 dB SPL/mW at 1 kHz, they can be used effectively with devices that have lower power outputs, like smartphones. The torus surrounding the cone driver is coated in beryllium using PVD to enhance stiffness, which helps to improve the headphones’ overall transparency, according to the brand.

    Design Features

    The drivers are secured within a magnesium frame that has been meticulously hand-painted in several layers of a metallic green hue. The ear cups are made from golden-brown Macassar ebony wood and are designed to magnetically attach to the frame, making it simple to replace them. The headphones also feature memory foam cushions wrapped in PU leather for comfort. To help manage heat, the inner ear cups are lined with Alcantara, a fabric made from a polyester blend, as mentioned by Meze Audio.

    Comfort and Usability

    The headband is equipped with soft, breathable padding and is adjustable in length for a perfect fit. Meze Audio has crafted the Strada to be easily taken apart, allowing the owner to replace any component for lasting use. Weighing in at 330 g (11.64 oz.), these headphones connect to audio devices via a 3.5 mm Y-cable.

    The Meze Audio Strada retails at an MSRP of $799 and is available on the company’s official website. Customers can also expect to find these headphones at the Meze Audio store on Amazon.

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  • Sony Unveils Unique Design Wireless Earbuds with 9-Hour Battery Life

    Sony Unveils Unique Design Wireless Earbuds with 9-Hour Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony launched the LinkBuds Clip, a new addition to the LinkBuds series, instead of updating the WF-1000X series with the anticipated WF-1000XM6.
    2. The LinkBuds Clip are designed for comfort during long wear, distributing weight around the outer ear rather than the ear canal.
    3. These earbuds lack passive noise cancellation due to the absence of eartips but feature Voice Boost and Sound Leakage Reduction for improved sound quality.
    4. The battery life is 9 hours on a single charge, with a total of 37 hours when using the charging case.
    5. Available in four colors (Black, Greige, Green, Lavender), the LinkBuds Clip are priced at $229.99 in the US, €199 in the Eurozone, and £179.99 in the UK.

    Sony has started the new year by launching a new set of wireless earbuds. Even though there have been many rumors, the company has not updated its WF-1000X series with the much-anticipated WF-1000XM6. Instead, Sony has chosen to refresh its LinkBuds series, marking the first new addition since late 2024 with the introduction of the LinkBuds Open and LinkBuds Fit (currently priced at $89.91 – renewed on Amazon).

    New LinkBuds Clip

    This time, Sony has unveiled the LinkBuds Clip, which are aimed to compete directly with other open earbuds such as the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds and the Huawei FreeClip 2. The design of the LinkBuds Clip is meant to provide more comfort for long wear compared to traditional earbuds, as the clip helps to spread the weight around the outer ear instead of putting pressure on the ear canal.

    Features and Battery Life

    Additionally, the absence of eartips eliminates the need for a specialized transparency mode. However, this design choice results in a lack of passive noise cancellation. Interestingly, Sony has incorporated features like Voice Boost and Sound Leakage Reduction to address some of the drawbacks that come with open earbuds. Furthermore, Sony asserts that the LinkBuds Clip can be comfortably worn all day, boasting a battery life of 9 hours and a total of 37 hours of use before the charging case requires recharging.

    The LinkBuds Clip is already available for purchase in four colors: Black, Greige, Green, and Lavender. Sony has set the price for these wireless earbuds at $229.99 in the United States, €199 in the Eurozone, and £179.99 in the UK. For additional information, it is recommended to check Sony’s website.

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