Category: Audio

May 16, 2025
Nothing Launches New Over-Ear Headphones This Summer
Key Takeaways
1. Nothing is entering the over-ear headphones market, confirmed through a YouTube video.
2. The company has partnered with KEF, a British audio firm, to enhance product development.
3. The design aims for a unique aesthetic, with clearly marked buttons to improve usability.
4. Nothing plans to price their headphones competitively, targeting a balance between low-cost and high-end options.
5. The headphones will be launched this summer, although they currently do not have a disclosed name.
Nothing has shared that it will be stepping into a brand new product category, which shouldn’t come as a shock following a previous announcement. With a video posted on their YouTube channel, Nothing has confirmed that they are developing their very first pair of over-ear headphones.
Partnership with KEF
This announcement follows closely after the company disclosed a collaboration with KEF, a well-known British audio firm. In that revelation, it was shared that both brands will pool their skills for both new and existing products. In the nearly 4-minute video shared on YouTube, the design team at Nothing gives insights into the forthcoming headphones.
Design Insights
The design leads expressed their dissatisfaction with the current over-ear headphones available, particularly from an aesthetic viewpoint. This indicates that Nothing’s inaugural headphones are likely to have a unique appearance, consistent with their other offerings. An additional feature of these headphones will be clearly marked buttons, which should help avoid the issue of mistakenly pressing the wrong one.
Nothing also pointed out the steep prices of existing headphones, even referencing the $549 AirPods Max (currently listed on Amazon for $479.99) to illustrate their point. The London-based tech firm aims for their headphones to sit between the low-cost and high-end markets, striving to create a product that won’t feel like a downgrade for users transitioning from more expensive headphones.
Expertise in Earbuds
The company is also relying on its background in making earbuds, which have garnered numerous positive reviews. They believe that their expertise in earbud production will aid in their success within the headphones market.
As of now, the Nothing over-ear headphones do not have a designated name, or at least it hasn’t been disclosed yet. However, it has been announced that they will launch this summer, which suggests that we may see them as early as June.
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Tags: KEF, Nothing, Over-Ear Headphones
May 16, 2025
iFi Go Pod Air: Convert Wired IEMs to Bluetooth Hi-Fi Earbuds
Key Takeaways
1. Improved sound quality while being 40% lighter and 20% smaller than the previous Go Pod model.
2. Compatible with all IEMs using 2-pin or MMCX connections, with additional adapters provided.
3. Supports high-quality Bluetooth codecs like Sony LDAC, Qualcomm aptX Adaptive, and LHDC.
4. Features an integrated microphone for phone calls and a touch-sensitive control area for playback.
5. Offers a battery life of 7 hours on its own and 15 hours with the charging case; priced at $249 with pre-orders available.
The iFi Go Pod Air is a new product that maintains the same features as the previous Go Pod model, but it offers improved sound quality while being 40% lighter and 20% smaller for better comfort. The main function stays the same: the iFi Go Pod Air connects wired earbuds and turns them into fully wireless earbuds, thanks to its built-in battery, Bluetooth chip, and amplifier.
Compatibility and Connectability
The iFi Go Pod Air works with all IEMs that have a cable connected through a 2-pin plug or MMCX. Additionally, the company provides adapters for T2, A2DP, and Pentaconn. Once everything is connected, users can link their earphones via Bluetooth, which supports high-quality codecs like Sony LDAC, Qualcomm aptX Adaptive, and LHDC, along with AAC and SBC. iFi claims that the sound quality is top-notch, featuring a 32-bit DAC from Cirrus Logic.
Usability Features
An integrated microphone allows users to make phone calls with the combination of IEMs and the Go Pod Air. There’s also a touch-sensitive area on the outside of the Go Pod Air for controlling playback. The IPX5 certification ensures that the device is protected from rain and sweat. The battery lasts for about seven hours on its own, or 15 hours when using the provided charging case, which is designed to charge the Go Pod Air without needing to take it out of the IEMs.
The iFi Go Pod Air is currently available for pre-order at a price of $249 in the manufacturer’s online shop. Shipping is anticipated to start on May 22.
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Tags: Hi-Fi Audio, iFi Go Pod Air, wireless earbuds
May 15, 2025
Retro Boombox with Cassette Drive and Bluetooth by We Are Rewind
Key Takeaways
1. The GB-001 boombox combines a nostalgic design with modern technology, following the WE-001 cassette player.
2. It features a cassette drive with Dolby B noise reduction, allowing playback and recording from external devices.
3. Users can connect up to two microphones wirelessly via Bluetooth and enjoy up to 10 hours of playback on the built-in speakers.
4. The sound system includes four speakers for high-quality audio, offering a balanced sound profile without overwhelming bass.
5. The GB-001 will launch in Europe for €449 (around $500), with more details to be announced soon.
We Are Rewind has introduced its latest product, the GB-001, which is a boombox that features a nostalgic design while incorporating some modern technology. This follows their earlier release of the WE-001 compact cassette player. The GB-001’s retro elements, like the handle, VU meters that show the audio levels for both channels, and the various buttons and knobs, conceal the advanced technology inside.
Cassette Drive and Recording Features
One of the standout features of the GB-001 is its cassette drive, which includes Dolby B noise reduction. This allows users not only to listen to cassettes but also to record onto them, using an external device like a smartphone or a microphone. Interestingly, you can connect up to two microphones wirelessly through Bluetooth. The boombox is powered by a 3,000 mAh battery, which is said to offer around ten hours of music playback through its built-in speakers, and even up to 28 hours when using Bluetooth headphones.
Speaker Quality and Connectivity
The sound system in the We Are Rewind GB-001 is made up of four speakers, featuring two woofers and two tweeters that aim to deliver high-quality audio. Enhanced audio processing is said to provide strong stereo effects. Unlike many classic boomboxes from the 1980s, this model offers a more balanced sound profile, avoiding overwhelming bass that obscures higher frequencies. The Bluetooth capability enables users to connect wireless headphones and microphones, and the device can also function as a Bluetooth speaker.
The We Are Rewind GB-001 boombox is set to launch in Europe with a price tag of €449 (approximately $500). While the exact release date has yet to be announced, more information should be available soon on the We Are Rewind website.
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Tags: Boombox, GB-001, We Are Rewind
May 15, 2025
Huawei FreeBuds 6 Launch: Unique Design & Improved Battery Life
Key Takeaways
1. Lighter Design: Each earbud weighs 4.9 grams and the charging case weighs 40.3 grams, making them lighter than the FreeBuds 5.
2. Enhanced Sound Quality: Improved frequency range from 16Hz-40KHz to 14Hz-48KHz, with a dual-magnetic driver unit still in use.
3. Better Battery Life: Up to 6 hours of playback without ANC and 4.5 hours with ANC, plus a total of 36 hours with the charging case, which is an increase from the FreeBuds 5.
4. Charging Features: The charging case supports wired and wireless charging, fast charging capabilities, and has a 510mAh battery.
5. Price and Availability: The FreeBuds 6 are priced at €159 and will be available for purchase through Huawei’s online store.
Huawei recently revealed its newest set of truly wireless earbuds, the FreeBuds 6. These earbuds maintain the distinctive open-fit style seen in the FreeBuds 5, but they come with several significant enhancements.
Color Options and Weight
The FreeBuds 6 can be purchased in Black, White, and Purple, and they are now lighter, with each earbud weighing 4.9 grams compared to the FreeBuds 5, which weighs 5.4 grams each. Additionally, the charging case is lighter too, weighing only 40.3 grams, in contrast to the 45 grams of the previous model.
Design and Sound Quality
These earbuds still hold an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, and they continue to use a dual-magnetic driver unit. However, Huawei has improved the frequency range from 16Hz-40KHz on the FreeBuds 5 to a broader 14Hz-48KHz on the FreeBuds 6.
The lighter design is attributed to a smaller battery inside. Each earbud now has a 39.5mAh battery, down from 42mAh in the previous version, but this change hasn’t harmed battery life. In fact, it is now even better.
Battery Life and Charging
Huawei claims that the FreeBuds 6 can offer up to 6 hours of playback time without Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and 4.5 hours with ANC active, which is an hour longer than the FreeBuds 5 (which is currently priced at €129.99 on Amazon.de). The total listening time with the case is 36 hours without ANC and 27 hours with it, an increase from the FreeBuds 5’s 30 hours and 20 hours. The charging case has a 510mAh battery and allows both wired and wireless charging, plus it supports fast charging, with just 5 minutes providing up to 2.5 hours of playback.
The FreeBuds 6 features Bluetooth 5.2 and is compatible with A2DP, HFP 1.7, and AVRCP 1.6. It also supports various codecs like LDAC, AAC, and SBC. Each earbud includes three microphones, and Huawei states they have earned Hi-Res Audio Wireless Certification. These earbuds are compatible with both iOS and Android devices.
Purchase Information
The Huawei FreeBuds 6 come with a price of €159 and will be available for purchase through Huawei’s online store.
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Tags: Bluetooth 5.2, HUAWEI FreeBuds 6, True Wireless Earbuds
May 15, 2025
Sony WH-1000XM6: New Over-Ear Wireless Headphones Released
Key Takeaways
1. Sony has launched the WH-1000XM6, the first sixth-generation model in its 1000X series, available in Black, Midnight Blue, and Platinum Silver.
2. The design features a foldable structure, a strengthened hinge mechanism, a wider headband, and softer earpads for improved comfort.
3. The headphones utilize Sony’s new QN3 processor, offering faster data processing and enhanced active noise cancellation with twelve microphones.
4. Upgraded 30 mm drivers improve high-frequency reproduction and vocal clarity, ensuring better overall audio performance.
5. The WH-1000XM6 boasts a battery life of up to 30 hours, with fast charging capabilities providing 3 hours of playback from just 3 minutes of charging.
Sony has officially launched the WH-1000XM6, marking the first sixth-generation model in its 1000X series, replacing the WH-1000XM5. As revealed by a last-minute leak yesterday, these new over-ear headphones are available in Black, Midnight Blue, and Platinum Silver. Notably, the WH-1000X series has returned to a foldable design, which was absent in the previous generation with the WH-1000XM5 (curr. $348 on Amazon).
Improved Design Features
This time, Sony claims to have strengthened the hinge mechanism, likely in response to previous hinge problems noted with the XM5s. Additionally, a wider headband is now included to alleviate pressure during extended wear of the WH-1000XM6. It appears that softer earpads are also designed to enhance comfort while using these headphones.
Enhanced Audio Technology
The WH-1000XM6 is equipped with Sony’s QN3 processor, which the company asserts can process data up to seven times faster than the QN1 chip used in the WH-1000XM5. With a total of twelve microphones, the QN3 is expected to provide superior active noise cancellation (ANC) and improved transparency modes, though the exact levels of improvement remain unclear.
Performance and Availability
Moreover, the WH-1000XM6 comes with upgraded 30 mm drivers to ensure better high-frequency reproduction and clearer vocals. The new headphones promise an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours and include fast charging capabilities that allow for 3 hours of playback from just 3 minutes of charging. You can order the WH-1000XM6 today for $449.99 from Sony and other retailers like Amazon or Best Buy, with shipments anticipated later this week. More information can be found on Sony’s official website.
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Tags: Active Noise Cancellation, sony, WH-1000XM6
May 15, 2025
Oppo Enco Clip: Lightweight Open Earbuds with 42-Hour Battery Life
Key Takeaways
1. Oppo launched new Enco wireless earbuds with an open-ear design on May 15, 2025, alongside the Reno14 smartphone series and Pad SE tablet.
2. The earbuds feature a metallic memory wire and ergonomic design based on extensive human ear research for comfort and stability.
3. They provide “Roaring Bass” with 11mm drivers and include a Voice Processing Unit (VPU) to reduce sound leakage during calls.
4. The charging case extends battery life to 42 hours, with the earbuds offering up to 9.5 hours on a single charge.
5. Available in trendy colors, the Enco Clips are priced at 799 yuan (about $111) in China.
Oppo has introduced a fresh member to its Enco line of wireless earbuds, along with the Reno14 smartphone series and the budget-friendly Pad SE tablet on May 15, 2025. These new earbuds are notable for being the first in the series to feature the increasingly favored open-ear design.
Comfort and Stability
According to the manufacturer, these earbuds are designed with a metallic memory wire and are based on “10,000 human ear research” to provide comfort and a secure fit for extended wear. This focus on ergonomics aims to enhance the user experience.
Sound Quality
The Enco Clips are promoted by Oppo as delivering “Roaring Bass” thanks to their 11mm drivers. They are also developed to minimize sound leakage during use, which is especially important for making phone calls. To support this, they come with a Voice Processing Unit (VPU) similar to other Enco models.
Battery Life and Availability
Each pair of Enco Clips is accompanied by a traditional earbud-style charging case that can extend battery life to 42 hours under optimal conditions. Oppo estimates that the earbuds themselves can operate for as long as 9.5 hours on a single charge.
The company emphasizes that these earbuds are stylish as well, being offered in trendy colors like Star Ash Gray and Pearl Sea. They are currently available in China for a price of 799 yuan (approximately $111) on their online store.
Additionally, the Baseus Bowie MC1 Open Ear Clip-On Earbuds are available for $49.99 on Amazon Prime.
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Tags: Oppo Enco Clips, Reno14 series, wireless earbuds
May 15, 2025
Sony WF-1000XM6: Early Details on WF-1000XM5 Successors
Key Takeaways
1. Sony is launching the WH-1000XM6 today, replacing the WH-1000XM5 after three years.
2. The launch hints at a new release cycle, as Sony typically refreshes its 1000X series annually.
3. There are rumors of the WF-1000XM6 earbuds being announced alongside the WH-1000XM6, although no recent leaks confirm this.
4. Evidence of the WF-1000XM6 was found in Sony’s Sound Connect app before being removed.
5. The WF-1000XM5 is expected to remain available for a while, priced at $179.99 on Amazon.
Sony is set to announce the WH-1000XM6 later today, replacing the WH-1000XM5 after a gap of three years between releases. Initially, the company shared very little information regarding today’s product launch, but earlier this week, it hinted that ‘Chapter 6’ was coming soon. Just last night, Sony was seen updating several of its websites to include the WH-1000XM6, along with details on pricing, colors, and shipping dates.
New Release Cycle
Usually, Sony refreshes its 1000X series once a year. However, there were rumors last year that the WH-1000XM6 would be accompanied by the WF-1000XM6 this year, aligning with the WF-1000X release schedules. Although the WF-1000XM6 has not been part of the recent leaks concerning the WH-1000XM6, The Walkman Blog has obtained proof that Sony recently added references to the WF-1000XM6 in its Sound Connect app, only to remove them shortly after.
Evidence of WF-1000XM6
Despite the removal, the website took a screenshot of these references, which we have included below. Sony not only mentioned ‘WF-1000XM6′ but also connected the earbuds’ retail name to the model number ‘YY2985’. This suggests that Sony might be planning to launch the WF-1000XM6 later this year, potentially during the summer or early fall. However, the absence of certifications or retail leaks indicates that the WF-1000XM5 is likely to remain available for some time (currently priced at $179.99 on Amazon).
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Tags: sony, WF-1000XM6, WH-1000XM6
May 15, 2025
Teenage Engineering Launches All-Black Mic, Recorder, Mixer Upgrade
Key Takeaways
1. Teenage Engineering has launched the ‘Field System’ with new matte-black finishes for select devices, enhancing their aesthetic appeal.
2. The CM-15 condenser microphone, priced at $1,199, offers versatile connectivity options and a built-in rechargeable battery.
3. The TP-7 compact audio recorder, available for $1,499, features unique tactile controls for easy audio file management.
4. The TX-6 mixer, costing $1,199, packs six stereo channels, multiple audio effects, and is designed for portability.
5. The OP-1 Field synthesizer remains in silver and white, while the other devices will still be offered in their original silver color.
Teenage Engineering has unveiled its latest ‘Field System’ portable audio devices, showcasing the Swedish brand’s signature strengths: stunning aesthetics, exceptional build and sound quality, and, naturally, hefty price tags. For enthusiasts, there are now three additional items to consider for their ongoing wish-list.
New Color Options
The brand has introduced a sleek, matte-black finish for three of its devices: the TP-7 recorder, the CM-15 condenser microphone, and the TX-6 mixer. This new color scheme beautifully complements the recently released OP-XY synthesizer sampler sequencer, which is currently priced at $2,299 on Amazon.
Device Details
The CM-15, available for $1,199 on Amazon, is a high-quality, large-diaphragm condenser mic that provides mini-XLR, USB-C, and 3.5mm mini-jack connections, making it versatile for various applications. It also includes a built-in rechargeable battery, ensuring functionality when USB or 48V phantom power isn’t accessible.
The TP-7, with a price tag of $1,499 on Amazon, stands out as a unique compact audio recorder, featuring the brand’s distinctive tactile controls. These controls include a motorized ‘tape-reel’ style wheel, allowing users to pause or scrub through audio files with ease.
Mixer Features
Lastly, the TX-6, priced at $1,199 on Amazon, is a small but powerful mixer and audio interface that boasts six stereo channels. It also incorporates multiple audio effects, an equalizer, drum machine, synthesizer, and sequencer, all packed into a palm-sized device. Quite impressive!
The only product from the Field System range that doesn’t come in the new matte-black color is the iconic OP-1 Field synthesizer/groovebox, which remains available only in silver and white. The other devices, apart from the OP-XY, will still be sold in their original silver color.
Despite the costs, all three devices have garnered significant acclaim from users, including tech reviewer Marques Brownlee, who often relies on the CM-12 microphone and is likely to appreciate the new matte-black variant.
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Tags: CM-15, Teenage Engineering, TP-7
May 15, 2025
Sony WH-1000XM6: Colors, Prices, and Release Dates Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. Sony is set to unveil the WH-1000XM6 headphones tomorrow, replacing the WH-1000XM5 currently priced at $291.50 on Amazon.
2. The launch follows the global announcement of the Xperia 1 VII and hints at ‘Chapter 6’ likely referring to the WH-1000XM6.
3. Leaks indicate that the WH-1000XM6 is the only upcoming product, with Sony seemingly confirming this with early listings.
4. Launch prices are suggested to be €449.99 in the Eurozone and £399.98 in the UK, with no US listings currently available.
5. The WH-1000XM6 will be available in Black, Midnight Blue, and Platinum Silver, with shipping expected to start from May 16.
Sony is likely to unveil the WH-1000XM6 model tomorrow, replacing the current WH-1000XM5, which is priced at $291.50 on Amazon. This launch comes just two days after the global announcement of the Xperia 1 VII. Sadly, it seems that Sony’s new flagship headphones might not be available in North America.
Launch Details
The company has not provided clear information about what to expect during the launch event tomorrow. Instead, they have hinted at ‘Chapter 6’ being on the way, which many believe refers specifically to the WH-1000XM6, rather than the WF-1000XM6 model as well.
Leaks and Confirmations
Multiple leaks have suggested that the only upcoming product is the WH-1000XM6. Additionally, Sony has seemingly confirmed this ahead of time. The Walkman Blog noted that listings for the WH-1000XM6 are not fully active yet, but they have already been found in search results on some regional websites.
Currently, we don’t see any listings for the US market, but results from the Eurozone and UK indicate launch prices of €449.99 and £399.98, respectively. It appears that Sony will be releasing these new over-ear headphones in Black, Midnight Blue, and Platinum Silver colors. Furthermore, all versions are expected to begin shipping from May 16 onwards.
Conclusion
In summary, while the details around tomorrow’s launch remain somewhat vague, it’s clear that the WH-1000XM6 is on its way. With the pricing and color options already surfacing, anticipation is building for these new headphones.
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Tags: headphones, sony, WH-1000XM6
May 14, 2025
WiiM Amp Ultra: 100W Amplifier & Hi-Fi Streamer in Compact Design
Key Takeaways
1. The WiiM Amp Ultra combines the WiiM Amp Pro amplifier and WiiM Ultra Hi-Fi streamer into one unit, offering enhanced performance.
2. It delivers 100 watts per channel at 8 ohms and 200 watts at 4 ohms, suitable for driving larger speakers.
3. Connectivity options include HDMI eARC and Toslink, but it lacks a headphone jack and built-in phono preamplifier.
4. It supports Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, major streaming services, and features automatic sound tuning, a touchscreen, and a dedicated app.
5. The WiiM Amp Ultra is set to launch in Q3 2025, with no official price announced yet.
The brand-new WiiM Amp Ultra combines the features of the WiiM Amp Pro amplifier and the WiiM Ultra Hi-Fi streamer into a single unit, promising enhanced performance. The WiiM Amp Ultra offers 100 watts per channel at an 8-ohm impedance, and it can deliver 200 watts at 4 ohms through its two Texas Instruments TPA3255 Class-D amplifiers. This power should suffice to drive larger speakers effectively.
Connectivity Options
Besides stereo speakers, users can connect an active subwoofer to the rear of the WiiM Amp Ultra. However, it’s important to note that this model does not include a headphone jack or a built-in phono preamplifier. While turntables with their own preamplifiers can still be hooked up, the design clearly favors TVs and home theaters with connectivity options like HDMI eARC and Toslink.
Streaming Capabilities
With Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, the WiiM Amp Ultra streams music wirelessly and supports major standards and services, including Google Cast, Alexa Cast, Amazon Music, Tidal, and Spotify Connect. However, it’s worth mentioning that Apple AirPlay is not part of the supported streaming interfaces. Regardless, the WiiM Amp Ultra can automatically tune the sound to fit a room, and it features a touchscreen on the front. A dedicated smartphone app and remote control are also available.
The WiiM Amp Ultra amplifier is expected to launch in the 3rd quarter of 2025, but the company hasn’t disclosed an official price yet. For reference, the WiiM Amp Pro is currently available for $379 on Amazon.
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Tags: Class-D amplifier, Wi-Fi 6E, WiiM Amp Ultra