Category: Audio

  • Onix Tocata XM2: New Digital Audio Player with OLED & 2TB Storage

    Onix Tocata XM2: New Digital Audio Player with OLED & 2TB Storage

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Onix Tocata XM2 digital audio player will be released in December 2025, priced at $439.
    2. It features a 3-inch OLED touch screen, physical playback buttons, and supports MicroSD storage expansion up to 2TB.
    3. The player delivers high audio performance with a Cirrus Logic CS4308P DAC and supports both single-ended and balanced headphone outputs.
    4. It has a 3000 mAh battery for up to 8.5 hours of playback and charges via USB-C, with remote control available through the Eddict Player app.
    5. The Tocata XM2 supports various streaming capabilities, including Tidal, DLNA, AirPlay, and Bluetooth 5.2 for two-way connectivity.

    Onix has just revealed its latest digital audio player, the Tocata XM2. This small Hi-Fi gadget is set to hit the market in December 2025, and it comes with a price tag of $439. It operates on the Ingenic X2000 processor and features an operating system developed by Onix itself.

    Display and Build

    The Tocata XM2 is equipped with a square 3-inch OLED touch screen that has a resolution of 720p. It also includes physical buttons for playback and a handy volume wheel. The device weighs 140 grams and has dimensions of 82 × 65 × 18 mm. Users can expand storage with MicroSD cards, supporting up to 2TB. Additionally, it has Tidal streaming capabilities and supports Wi-Fi connections at both 2.4 and 5 GHz, along with DLNA and AirPlay. Bluetooth 5.2 is included for two-way connectivity, and it supports various codecs, such as LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, SBC, and AAC. As a bonus, it can also work as a USB DAC, providing USB digital audio output.

    Audio Performance

    For audio performance, the player is equipped with Cirrus Logic’s CS4308P DAC, which features an 8-channel design that enables a fully balanced hardware circuit. Output options consist of 3.5 mm single-ended and 4.4 mm balanced headphone ports. The balanced output can reach up to 800 mW at 32 ohms in high gain, while it offers 200 mW at 32 ohms in low gain settings. The total harmonic distortion plus noise is an impressive 0.0005% (A-weighted), with a signal-to-noise ratio of 121 dB and a noise level of 114 dB (A-weighted). The output impedance is quite low at 0.7 ohms, and the 3.5 mm port can deliver up to 204 mW at 32 ohms when in high gain mode.

    Battery and Connectivity

    In terms of file handling, the Tocata XM2 supports PCM up to 768 kHz / 32-bit and DSD512 formats. It is powered by a 3000 mAh battery that charges via USB-C, offering a playback time of up to 8.5 hours from either output. Users can control the device remotely using the Eddict Player smartphone app.

    The XM2 also supports magnetic mounting cases (which are sold separately), allowing the DAP to attach to smartphones for easy portability, making it convenient for use with wireless headphones or external DACs.

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  • NASA’s Perseverance Finds Electrical Sparks on Mars

    NASA’s Perseverance Finds Electrical Sparks on Mars

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dust devils on Mars can create electrical discharges, proving a long-held scientific theory.
    2. The Perseverance rover recorded audio and signals from a dust devil, confirming the presence of sparks.
    3. Dust particles colliding inside dust devils generate electrical charges through the triboelectric effect.
    4. Mars’ thin atmosphere reduces the charge needed for sparks, allowing for significant electrical activity.
    5. Understanding these discharges is important for assessing risks to robotic missions and future human exploration on Mars.

    Dust devils are little whirlwinds that spin and lift up dust and sand as they travel across the surface of Mars. For a long time, scientists have believed that these dust devils can create electrical discharges. Now, they have finally been able to prove their theory.

    Capturing the Sound of Dust Devils

    The Perseverance rover’s SuperCam instrument recorded audio and electromagnetic signals when a dust devil went by. Researchers confirmed that the “snap” sound heard in the recordings came from a spark generated inside the dust devil.

    They found out that dust particles within these dust devils bump into each other, creating electrical charges. When these charges grow strong enough, they can produce a spark. This is known as the triboelectric effect.

    The Role of Mars’ Atmosphere

    It was expected that the charges from the dust particles would be too weak to cause any sparks. However, Baptiste Chide, a member of the Perseverance team, pointed out that the thin atmosphere on Mars lowers the amount of charge needed to produce a spark.

    The consequences of this finding are significant. These electrical discharges can lead to the creation of chlorates and perchlorates, which are chemicals that can break down organic molecules essential for life. Additionally, electrical charges may help in the rapid destruction of methane, possibly explaining why methane disappears so quickly on the Red Planet.

    Understanding Future Risks

    Fortunately, there have been no reports of electrical discharges harming Mars rovers. Still, this confirmed discovery could be crucial for scientists to assess potential risks for ongoing robotic missions and future human expeditions. This significant finding was published in Nature on November 26.

    Nature via NASA

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  • Astell & Kern Launches AK HC5 Ultra High-Resolution USB DAC

    Astell & Kern Launches AK HC5 Ultra High-Resolution USB DAC

    Key Takeaways

    1. Advanced Processing Technology: The AK HC5 features an AK4191EQ digital processor and AK4499EX DAC for ultra-low noise headphone output and minimal distortion.

    2. Upscaling Capabilities: It supports upscaling of PCM and DSD audio inputs, enhancing lower-quality audio to higher resolutions with six adjustable impulse response filters.

    3. Performance Metrics: Offers high signal-to-noise ratios (125 dB for balanced and 121 dB for unbalanced headphones) with very low total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N).

    4. Compatibility: Works with various devices including Android and Apple smartphones, Windows and Mac computers, and gaming consoles, supporting UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0 via USB.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The AK HC5 USB DAC will be priced at $450 and is expected to be available on Amazon in the next month or two.

    Astell & Kern has introduced the AK HC5, an ultra-high resolution USB DAC that works with both balanced and unbalanced headphones.

    Advanced Processing Technology

    The AK HC5 features an AK4191EQ digital processor that handles digital audio inputs before sending them to the AK4499EX DAC. This DAC provides analog audio to a special amplifier that is designed to produce ultra-low noise headphone output ranging from 20 Hz to 70 kHz, boasting a total distortion of ±0.06 dB and an even better ±0.006 dB for frequencies between 20 Hz and 20 kHz.

    Upscaling Capabilities

    The HC5 DAC can take uncompressed PCM and DSD audio inputs, allowing for upscaling through DAR (Digital Audio Remaster) technology. PCM inputs at 48 kHz can be enhanced up to 384 kHz PCM for playback, and it can also upscale lower-quality PCM and DSD inputs to DSD256 for use with balanced 4.4 mm and unbalanced 3.5 mm headphones. Users have access to six impulse response filters to adjust the sound profile.

    Performance and Features

    For those using balanced headphones, the device offers a signal-to-noise ratio of 125 dB @ 1 kHz, with crosstalk measuring -141 dB and THD+N at 0.0004%. Unbalanced headphone users will see a signal-to-noise ratio of 121 dB @ 1 kHz, crosstalk at -139 dB, and THD+N at 0.0005%, as stated by the manufacturer. A 150-step rotary dial is included for volume adjustments, and information is shown on a 1.62-inch OLED display.

    Compatibility and Availability

    The Roon-compatible AK HC5 is compatible with UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0 via USB connections to devices like Android and Apple smartphones, Windows and Mac computers, as well as gaming consoles like the Sony PlayStation and Nintendo Switch.

    Consumers can look forward to the $450 AK HC5 USB DAC, which is expected to be available in the Astell & Kern store on Amazon in the upcoming month or two.

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  • Tesla Solves iPhone Forgetting Issue in Cars with New Feature

    Tesla Solves iPhone Forgetting Issue in Cars with New Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. The 2025 Holiday Update includes festive features like vehicle visuals and Santa Mode decorations.
    2. A new Phone Left Behind Chime alerts drivers if they forget their iPhone or Android device in the car.
    3. The Phone Left Behind Chime can be activated through Controls > Locks on the vehicle’s interface.
    4. UWB connectivity now supports both iPhones and Android devices for unlocking and tracking.
    5. The Tesla checks the wireless charging pad for forgotten phones, and the chime sounds briefly after the doors close.

    The big 2025 Holiday Update is here, bringing along a bunch of exciting features that Tesla enthusiasts have been eagerly waiting for in recent years.

    Exciting New Features

    In addition to classic holiday treats like fresh vehicle visuals and festive decorations in Santa Mode—featuring winter animations and a cheerful lock chime—there’s a new sound that many users have been anticipating. The Phone Left Behind Chime does exactly what its name suggests; it alerts the driver with an audible signal if they forget to take their iPhone or Android device when leaving the car.

    Easy Activation

    You can activate this feature by going to Controls > Locks > Phone Left Behind Chime. Initially, Tesla vehicles only worked with the iPhone’s Ultra Wideband (UWB) connectivity for the Phone Key unlocking system. However, earlier this year, they expanded UWB support to include Android devices, like the latest Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, which is currently 30% off on Amazon, and also Google Pixel phones.

    Enhanced Tracking Options

    In addition to using UWB to detect if a phone is left inside the vehicle, the Tesla checks the wireless charging pad to see if a phone has been forgotten there as well. This tracking feature is compatible with all devices, so even owners of older iPhone or Android models can take advantage of the new Phone Left Behind Chime feature.

    It’s important to note that the Tesla will only sound the chime for a brief period, just a few seconds after the doors close, once the last person has exited the vehicle.

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  • Skywave X70 7.1.4 Sound System: Features & Wireless Audio

    Skywave X70 7.1.4 Sound System: Features & Wireless Audio

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ultimea Skywave X70 sound system is priced at approximately $700 and includes a soundbar, subwoofer, and two satellite speakers.
    2. It features a 7.1.4 configuration that supports Dolby Atmos for enhanced spatial audio.
    3. The system has four upward-firing drivers and a peak power rating of 980 watts; the subwoofer measures 10 inches in diameter.
    4. Connectivity options include HDMI eARC, USB, optical audio input, and Bluetooth 5.4, with a remote control that has an Xupmix button for stereo audio enhancement.
    5. The frequency response ranges from 20 to 20,000 Hz, with a signal-to-noise ratio over 75 dB and distortion levels below 1%.

    Ultimea, a name that might sound familiar to some, has just unveiled their latest sound system, the Skywave X70. This system is available for approximately $700 at various retailers including Amazon. As is common for products in this price range, it comes with a soundbar, a subwoofer, and two satellite speakers. The system features a 7.1.4 configuration, which supports Dolby Atmos, promising a realistic spatial audio experience. However, while it doesn’t need wired connections for audio, the subwoofer and satellite speakers still use cables for power supply.

    Specifications Overview

    The Skywave X70 boasts four upward-firing drivers, a design that is somewhat typical for sound systems like this one. It has a power rating of 980 watts, but it’s important to note that this is its peak output, not the continuous power it can deliver. The subwoofer has a diameter of 10 inches, while the other speakers are smaller, measuring 2.25 inches in diameter. Ultimea states that the frequency response ranges from 20 to 20,000 Hz, with a signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 75 dB and distortion levels below 1%.

    Connectivity Features

    In terms of connectivity, the system offers HDMI eARC, a USB port, an optical audio input, and Bluetooth 5.4. It also comes with a remote control that includes a special button for Xupmix, which is meant to transform regular stereo audio into a more immersive surround sound experience. However, it remains unclear how well this feature actually performs in real-world usage.

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  • FiiO DM15 R2R CD Player with 1,150 mW Amplifier Inside

    FiiO DM15 R2R CD Player with 1,150 mW Amplifier Inside

    Key Takeaways

    1. The FiiO DM15 R2R CD player features a retro design with a clear top for viewing CDs during playback.
    2. It has a 4,700 mAh battery, providing seven hours of playback and charges via USB-C.
    3. The player delivers impressive sound quality with two SGM8262 amplifiers and a custom digital-to-analog converter supporting high-resolution audio.
    4. Connectivity options include a 3.5 mm jack, a balanced 4.4 mm jack, and Bluetooth streaming with Qualcomm aptX Adaptive.
    5. The FiiO DM15 R2R is priced at $269 and will be available in January 2026.

    The FiiO DM15 R2R CD player has just been released, showcasing a chic retro style and a clear top that lets you watch the CD as it plays. On the front, there’s a volume knob, a few buttons for equalizer settings, and a small 0.96-inch display to show playback time and other info.

    Battery Life and Sound Quality

    This player comes with a 4,700 mAh battery that offers seven hours of playback and charges through USB-C. The sound quality of the FiiO DM15 R2R is impressive. It features two SGM8262 amplifiers, delivering up to 815 mW per channel when on battery and up to 1,150 mW in desktop mode, making it perfect for driving high-impedance headphones. Additionally, FiiO has developed its own digital-to-analog converter that can handle music at 24-bit and 384 kHz, as well as DSD256.

    Connectivity Options

    You can connect headphones using either a 3.5 mm jack or a balanced 4.4 mm jack. The built-in Qualcomm QCC3095 Bluetooth chip allows for wireless music streaming via Qualcomm aptX Adaptive. To help keep the CD stable, especially when the FiiO DM15 R2R is in your pocket and moving around, there’s an ESP system in place. For convenience, FiiO also provides an infrared remote control for stationary use.

    The FiiO DM15 R2R CD player is set to be available in January 2026, with a retail price of $269.

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  • Snowsky Echo Nano Leak Shows MicroSD and Compact Design for Player

    Snowsky Echo Nano Leak Shows MicroSD and Compact Design for Player

    Key Takeaways

    1. Snowsky, a new audio sub-brand by FiiO, offers compact and budget-friendly digital audio players with a nostalgic design.
    2. The upcoming Echo Nano is a smaller version of the popular Echo Mini, featuring physical buttons and a straightforward display.
    3. The device design includes a teal-blue color, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a rotating control wheel, reminiscent of classic MP3 players.
    4. The Echo Nano is expected to support expandable storage with TF cards (microSD), as confirmed by FiiO’s James.
    5. No official price or launch date has been announced yet, but users are eager for pre-order information.

    Snowsky is a new audio sub-brand associated with FiiO, offering a quickly expanding range of compact and budget-friendly digital audio players featuring a nostalgic design and easy-to-use controls. The brand’s previous product, the Echo Mini, gained popularity for its ability to deliver high-resolution audio in a small package. It appears that Snowsky is focusing on creating devices for portable offline listening instead of devices that rely on touchscreen streaming.

    Exciting New Leak

    Recently, a leak from Weibo suggests that Snowsky is set to launch a new portable music player, likely named Echo Nano. This device seems to be a smaller version of the Echo Mini (currently priced at $49.99 on Amazon), and initial reactions indicate that users are thrilled about its compact size, physical buttons, and straightforward display.

    The leaked pictures depict a slender, rectangular design in a teal-blue color, with the Snowsky logo etched on the side. On the top, there’s a 3.5mm headphone jack and a rotating control wheel, reminiscent of classic MP3 players and small recording devices from the late 2000s. The screen appears to be basic and monochrome, while playback controls are available via dedicated buttons along the side.

    User Inquiries

    According to screenshots of comments from Weibo, users are curious if the device will have a microphone and support for TF cards (microSD). FiiO’s James replied “可以啊” (translated as yes) to the question about TF card support, hinting that expandable storage could be a distinct feature. The images show the device is noticeably slimmer and shorter compared to the Echo Mini, almost resembling the size of a USB dongle DAC rather than a full-fledged DAP. The overall look brings back memories of early 2000s MP3 players.

    There hasn’t been an official price or launch date announced yet, although users on Weibo are inquiring about pre-order information. We’ll find out the details once Snowsky releases a formal announcement on the matter.

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  • IKEA Kulglass: Colorful Bluetooth Speaker and Lamp for Homes

    IKEA Kulglass: Colorful Bluetooth Speaker and Lamp for Homes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Product Introduction: IKEA has launched the Kulglass Bluetooth speaker lamp, featuring a concealed speaker and a ribbed shade for soft lighting.

    2. Design Inspiration: Designer Tekla Evelina Severin drew from elements like soft-serve ice cream, cherry blossoms, Art Deco, and Japanese Kokeshi dolls for the lamp’s aesthetic.

    3. Lamp Features: The lamp includes a polyester fabric-covered stem, a volume knob, an ABS plastic base with rubber feet, and requires a separate bulb purchase.

    4. Audio Specifications: It has a 1-inch tweeter, a 3.5-inch woofer, a Spotify Tap function, and supports multi-speaker mode for connecting with other compatible IKEA speakers.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The Kulglass speaker lamp is priced at $129.99 and will be available globally starting in December, with varying launch dates by region.

    Along with the Solskydd Bluetooth speakers, IKEA has introduced the Kulglass Bluetooth speaker lamp. This product comes in two colors, with the speaker cleverly concealed in the lamp’s stem, while the ribbed shade offers a soft, diffused glow.

    Design Inspirations

    As per Tekla Evelina Severin, the designer behind this creation, her goal was to make something that touches all senses and stirs up nostalgia. She mentions that her design draws inspiration from soft-serve ice cream, cherry blossoms, classic Art Deco, and Japanese Kokeshi dolls.

    Lamp Features

    The lamp is designed with a stem that is covered in polyester fabric, alongside a matching knob for adjusting the volume. It sits on an ABS plastic base, which includes rubber feet to prevent sliding. The lampshade is constructed with glass, but customers will need to buy a bulb separately.

    Audio Specifications

    This Bluetooth speaker is equipped with a 1-inch tweeter and a 3.5-inch woofer. Similar to the Solskydd, it has the Spotify Tap function. Additionally, it supports a multi-speaker mode, enabling users to connect it with other IKEA Bluetooth speakers that offer the same feature.

    The Kulglass Bluetooth speaker is priced at $129.99 and can be found in Green and Red-Brown with Pink. It is set to be available for purchase worldwide starting in December, although the specific launch dates will differ by region.

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  • Spotify to Increase US Subscription Prices in Q1 2026

    Spotify to Increase US Subscription Prices in Q1 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Spotify plans to raise US subscription prices in early next year.
    2. Expected price increase may be around $1 per month for individual plans.
    3. Previous major price hike occurred in June 2024, raising individual accounts to $11.99.
    4. External pressure from record labels is influencing the decision to increase fees.
    5. Spotify has recently added features like lossless audio, justifying a potential price rise.

    Spotify is said to be planning a rise in its subscription prices in the United States beginning early next year. A report from the Financial Times mentions that Spotify is “getting ready to raise US subscription prices in the first quarter of next year” as the company aims to show its investors that it can maintain profitability over time.

    Price Adjustments Likely

    Even though Spotify hasn’t confirmed the exact increase, US users might experience a small price change. Typically, the company raises the price of its individual plan by about $1 per month at a time. This follows a long-standing trend since the service began, having only increased by $2 in total over the last 14 years. The previous major adjustment took place in June 2024, when the price for an individual account rose to $11.99 per month, while the Family plan went up to $19.99 per month.

    Industry Pressure Influencing Changes

    It seems external factors are pushing this potential change, as major record labels have been urging Spotify and its competitors to raise their fees. They claim that music streaming is still quite affordable compared to video platforms like Netflix. Moreover, Spotify has recently implemented several updates to its service, including the introduction of lossless audio, making a price increase more understandable.

    This possible increase in the US comes after Spotify had already raised subscription fees in parts of South Asia, Europe, and Latin America just a few months back. Currently, US users are paying $11.99 for Individual plans, $16.99 for Duo accounts, $19.99 for Family plans, and $5.99 for Student subscriptions, but these numbers might change soon if the reports are accurate.

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  • New Colorful IKEA Bluetooth Speakers Launching Soon

    New Colorful IKEA Bluetooth Speakers Launching Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. IKEA has launched a new line of smart speakers called Solskydd in collaboration with Tekla Evelina Severin, focusing on functional designs that don’t need to be hidden away.
    2. The Solskydd speakers come in three sizes: small (8-inch), medium (11-inch), and large (18-inch), all equipped with Bluetooth and the ability to connect multiple speakers.
    3. The small model features a 2.5-inch driver, portable design with 25 hours of battery life, and an orange checkerboard pattern, while the medium and large models offer higher volume and more advanced features.
    4. Each speaker includes buttons for control, with the larger models offering three EQ modes, and standard white versions will also be available for a simpler look.
    5. The Solskydd speakers are set to release in December 2025, with US availability starting in January 2026, priced at $79.99 for the small, $99.99 for the medium, and $139.99 for the large version.

    IKEA has introduced a trio of new smart speakers named Solskydd. These devices were developed in partnership with Tekla Evelina Severin, commonly referred to as Teklan. The aim behind these products is to create functional speakers that users won’t feel compelled to conceal.

    Speaker Sizes and Features

    The Solskydd comes in three different sizes: small (8-inch), medium (11-inch), and large (18-inch). All versions are equipped with Bluetooth, enabling you to play music or podcasts from your phone, tablet, or laptop. You can even connect multiple speakers together to enhance your audio experience. Additionally, this model supports Spotify Tap, allowing users to quickly resume music or create new playlists based on their previous listening habits.

    Specifications of Each Model

    The small Solskydd features a single 2.5-inch driver that achieves a volume of up to 80.5 dB. It sports an orange checkerboard design and can be mounted on a wall or placed on a flat surface using its included stand. This is the only portable option in the lineup, offering up to 25 hours of battery life. The medium version contains a 1-inch tweeter and a 4-inch woofer, reaching a maximum volume of 83.6 dB. This wired speaker showcases a green, brown, and beige diagonal stripe and can also be hung or set on the floor.

    The large Solskydd includes a 1-inch tweeter and two 3-inch woofers, with a maximum volume of 93.6 dB. This wired model is designed for wall-mounting and features a textured orange fabric cover. IKEA mentions that it could be used alongside a screen. Each speaker in the Solskydd range has buttons on its plastic exterior, while the two larger models provide three EQ modes. The company is also launching standard white versions of the Solskydd speakers for those preferring a simpler aesthetic.

    Availability and Pricing

    IKEA plans to release the Solskydd smart speakers in December 2025, although they won’t be available in the US until January 2026. In the US market, the small Solskydd smart speaker will be priced at $79.99, while the medium and large versions are set at $99.99 and $139.99, respectively.

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