Category: Audio

  • Sony Stops Production of Recordable Media, Ending Blu-ray Era

    Sony Stops Production of Recordable Media, Ending Blu-ray Era

    Sony has made the big announcement that it will stop producing recordable media by February 2025. This ends the production of Blu-ray Discs, MiniDiscs, and MiniDV cassettes. The company confirmed this news in January 2025, pointing out that the demand for physical media has been going down as digital media becomes more popular.

    What Products Will Be Affected?

    The discontinuation affects several Blu-ray recordable formats, including BD-RE and BD-R across 11 different models. Additionally, the MiniDiscs used for audio recordings, such as the “MDW80T” and “MMD-140B,” along with MiniDV cassettes (including the 70-minute versions and multi-packs), will also be discontinued. While there is still some stock available at Sony stores, there are no plans to introduce any replacement products.

    Why Is This Happening?

    Sony pointed to the growing popularity of video streaming services, cloud storage, and other digital technologies as the key reasons behind this decision. The company recognized that the market is changing, with physical media being replaced more and more by digital options. The first hints of this shift came in July 2024 when Sony shared its intentions to wind down its storage media business. By January 2025, they confirmed the full stop of production and thanked customers for their loyalty over the years.

    What Does This Mean for the Industry?

    This move by Sony highlights the fast decline of physical media in a world that prioritizes digital formats. While some fans and collectors might be sad about losing these products, it reflects a broader industry trend towards digital distribution. Sony’s message stressed their appreciation, declaring, “There will be no successor models.”

    Sony played a significant role in making Blu-ray technology popular, especially through the PlayStation 3, which served as a cost-effective Blu-ray player. This announcement marks the close of an important chapter in the history of physical storage formats, signifying the ongoing shift in the industry toward digital media.

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  • Noise Airwave Max 5: Wireless Headphones with ANC & 80Hr Battery

    Noise Airwave Max 5: Wireless Headphones with ANC & 80Hr Battery

    Noise has launched a new set of wireless headphones on the Indian market. The Noise Airwave Max 5 has made its entrance with impressive features at a reasonable price. Let’s take a closer look at what it offers, along with its pricing and availability.

    Features of Noise Airwave Max 5

    The Airwave Max 5 from Noise boasts a sleek design. It includes 40mm audio drivers, delivering HiFi sound quality and 3D spatial audio, creating a cinematic experience. These headphones come with Adaptive Hybrid ANC (Active Noise Cancellation), blocking noise up to 50 decibels. In addition to an enhanced audio experience, the Noise Airwave Max 5 also provides a remarkable battery life. Once fully charged, users can enjoy up to 80 hours of playback.

    Design and Usability

    Equipped with a quad microphone system, the headphones offer ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) for clearer calls. They connect using Bluetooth 5.4 and feature a super low latency mode at 30ms. Other interesting features include compatibility with Siri and Google Assistant, an IPX5 water-resistant rating, fast charging capabilities, and dual pairing that allows easy switching between devices. The launch of Airwave Max 5 comes just days after the introduction of the ColorFit Pro 6 series smartwatches by the brand.

    Pricing and Where to Buy

    The Noise Airwave Max 5 headphones are now available in three color variants: Carbon Black, Calm Beige, and Calm White. They are priced at 4,999 INR (approximately 60 US Dollars), but currently, they can be purchased for 4,699 INR on Amazon India. Noise has made these headphones available on its official website and Flipkart as well.

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  • Audio-Technica R-Series Open-Back Headphones Launch at NAMM Show

    Audio-Technica R-Series Open-Back Headphones Launch at NAMM Show

    Audio-Technica recently introduced three new open-back reference headphones during the NAMM Show 2025: the ATH-R70xa, ATH-R50x, and ATH-R30x.

    Enhanced Sound Experience

    The R-Series headphones come with an open-back design that avoids the muddiness often caused by sound bouncing around in closed-back ear cups. This design allows for a sound reproduction that is more lively, natural, and spacious, helping audio professionals create higher-quality productions. Additionally, the open design promotes air circulation, preventing heat build-up around the ears.

    Product Specifications

    The ATH-R70xa weighs 199 g (7.0 oz.) and features a 45 mm driver that operates within a frequency range of 5 to 40,000 Hz. It is capable of handling a maximum input power of 1,000 mW at an impedance of 470 ohms, offering a sensitivity rating of 97 dB/mW.

    On the other hand, the ATH-R50x weighs 207 g (7.3 oz.) and also uses a 45 mm driver with the same frequency response of 5 to 40,000 Hz. It can manage a maximum input power of 1,600 mW at 50 ohms, with a sensitivity of 93.3 dB/mW.

    Pricing and Availability

    The ATH-R30x, employing a 40 mm driver, has a frequency response of 15 to 25,000 Hz. It handles a maximum input power of 1,000 mW at 36 ohms and has a sensitivity of 92 dB/mW.

    The ATH-R70xa is priced at $349 and can be found on Amazon. The ATH-R50x is available for $159 on Amazon. Lastly, the ATH-R30x is expected to retail for $99 and will be available in Spring 2025 from the Audio-Technica store on Amazon.

    Audio-Technica is expanding its lineup of headphones with the new R-Series open-back models, providing exceptional clarity, natural soundscapes, and comfort suitable for all kinds of audio production.

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  • LG S95TR and S90TY Soundbars Launched in India with Dolby Atmos

    LG S95TR and S90TY Soundbars Launched in India with Dolby Atmos

    LG Electronics has introduced two new soundbars in India, named the S95TR and S90TY, which provide enhanced audio features for home entertainment.

    LG S95TR Soundbar: Superior Audio Quality

    The LG S95TR soundbar features a 9.1.5 channel configuration along with 17 speakers that produce an output of 810W. It has five up-firing speakers, improved tweeters, and passive radiators that ensure deep bass and bright high frequencies. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technology, creating an all-encompassing surround sound experience for users.

    WOWCAST technology allows for a wireless connection between the soundbar and LG TVs, removing unsightly wires. Users can manage both devices with a single remote, making it easier to adjust volume, change sound modes, and check connection status.

    Key Features:

    – Channels & Output: 9.1.5, 810W
    – Connectivity: HDMI, Bluetooth 5.1, Wi-Fi, USB, Alexa, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Google Home
    – Audio Formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Digital
    – Dimensions & Weight: Main unit: 1250x63x135 mm; Weight: 5.65 kg

    The S95TR is priced at ₹84,990, but there’s a special offer bringing the price down to ₹79,988 on Amazon.in.

    LG S90TY Soundbar: Sleek and Efficient

    The LG S90TY soundbar comes with a 5.1.3 channel setup, featuring 11 speakers and offering an output of 570W. It lacks wireless rear speakers but has a center up-firing speaker for more accurate sound. Like its counterpart, it also supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for a refined audio experience.

    Key Features:

    – Channels & Output: 5.1.3, 570W
    – Connectivity: HDMI, Bluetooth 5.1, Wi-Fi, USB, Alexa, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Google Home
    – Dimensions & Weight: Main unit: 1250x63x135 mm; Weight: 5.65 kg

    The S90TY is available at ₹69,990, with a promotional price of ₹64,990 on Flipkart.com.

    Where to Buy

    You can find both soundbars at retail stores, on LG.com, and on major online shopping sites.

    LG S95TR and S90TY Soundbars Launched in India with Dolby AtmosLG S95TR and S90TY Soundbars Launched in India with Dolby Atmos
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  • Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC with Spatial Audio Launch in India at Rs 1,799

    Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC with Spatial Audio Launch in India at Rs 1,799

    The Realme 14 Pro series made its debut for sale in India today, 23rd January 2025. In addition to these mid-range smartphones, the company also introduced the Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC. Below are the key details about its specifications, pricing, and promotional offers.

    Specifications of Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC

    The Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC features a neckband design with in-ear earbuds. It is equipped with a 13.6mm dynamic driver that aims to deliver rich bass and clear sound quality. This device uses the BT8931H chipset, allowing for Bluetooth 5.4 support and a remarkably low latency mode of 45ms. These new wireless earphones come with dual connectivity capabilities and provide 360° spatial audio for a superior listening experience.

    Features and Performance

    With an IP55 rating, the Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC is resistant to both water and dust. It boasts a five-microphone setup, which includes Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) support and up to 50 decibels of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). When fully charged, the earbuds can last approximately 38 hours without ANC and around 20 hours with ANC activated. Thanks to fast charging technology, just 10 minutes of charging can provide up to 20 hours of listening time.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC is currently priced at 1,799 INR in India. A limited-time offer includes a flat discount of 200 INR, lowering the effective price to 1,599 INR. Available in several colors—Twilight Purple, Midnight Black, and Dawn Silver—you can purchase these earphones from the official Realme website, as well as Flipkart, Amazon India, and various offline stores.

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  • Ultimea Apollo S80: 5.1 Soundbar with Dolby Atmos & Subwoofer

    Ultimea Apollo S80: 5.1 Soundbar with Dolby Atmos & Subwoofer

    Ultimea is adding to its wide range of audio products with the launch of a new Dolby Atmos-capable speaker system. The Apollo S80 soundbar is available for pre-order on the manufacturer’s website for just under $180. Shipping for customers in the US is expected to begin in early February. However, Canadian buyers won’t have to wait, as the soundbar is already in stock and ready for immediate shipment. Eventually, the Apollo S80 is also likely to be listed on Amazon.

    Soundbar Features

    This soundbar offers surround sound, but unlike other audio products from Ultimea, it does not come with rear satellite speakers. Instead, the soundbar itself contains five speakers. Each of these drivers has a diameter of 2 inches. It’s quite surprising that the entire soundbar can be split into three sections — one for the center and one each for the left and right channels.

    Mounting and Setup

    All three sections can be mounted on the wall separately. Completing this 5.1-channel setup is a dedicated subwoofer measuring 5.25 inches. All components of this soundbar need to be linked together using cables, and while the soundbar officially supports Dolby Atmos, the surround sound experience might be somewhat limited due to the absence of rear speakers.

    Additional Features

    Moreover, the Ultimea 5.1 soundbar and subwoofer come with LED ambient lighting, which can be customized for color and brightness through a dedicated smartphone app. This audio system also supports HDMI eARC and includes an optical audio input, a 3.5mm headphone jack, a USB port, and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.

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    Ultimea Apollo S80: 5.1 Soundbar with Dolby Atmos & SubwooferUltimea Apollo S80: 5.1 Soundbar with Dolby Atmos & Subwoofer

     

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  • Qualcomm XPAN: Wi-Fi Headphones with 24-bit Hi-Fi Audio

    Qualcomm XPAN: Wi-Fi Headphones with 24-bit Hi-Fi Audio

    Qualcomm introduced XPAN in 2023, and the first products that will utilize this new standard were initially anticipated to arrive in 2024. However, there have been no visible signs of Wi-Fi headphones as of now. This is set to change, as Qualcomm has announced that the first wireless XPAN earbuds will be available “very soon.”

    Launch Details Yet to be Revealed

    While specific information about the initial headphones and their launch timing remains unclear, Qualcomm appears optimistic that its new audio technology will soon be accessible to consumers. For XPAN to function, headphones and earbuds need to have a Snapdragon S7+ Gen 1 chip, and the smartphone or tablet they connect to must also possess a Qualcomm chipset with XPAN capability. When these specifications are satisfied, high-fidelity music can be transmitted losslessly at up to 24-bit and 192 kHz with a bandwidth reaching up to 29 Mbps. This figure is around 29 times greater than what Qualcomm aptX Lossless can offer through Bluetooth.

    Low Latency and Extended Range

    XPAN is said to provide very low latency, even at this high data transfer rate, making it a great choice for gamers too. The wireless range is reportedly much longer than that of Bluetooth, with Qualcomm highlighting that headphones can maintain their connection throughout an entire building. Although XPAN is designed to be more energy-efficient than traditional Wi-Fi, it’s expected to use more power than Bluetooth. Nevertheless, the chip can automatically switch from XPAN to Bluetooth when streaming lossy content. Additionally, XPAN supports spatial audio and allows for simultaneous playback from multiple devices, much like Bluetooth Multipoint does.

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  • Xiaomi 2.0ch Soundbar: New Bluetooth 5.3 Audio Solution Available

    Xiaomi 2.0ch Soundbar: New Bluetooth 5.3 Audio Solution Available

    Xiaomi has unveiled the Soundbar 2.0ch in Europe, just two months after the launch of the TV Speaker 2.0 and TV Speaker 2.1 in China. True to its name, the Soundbar 2.0ch features a two-channel setup with specific drivers for each channel.

    Sound Performance

    Each ‘racetrack’ driver is sized at 45 x 80 mm and provides a power output of 15 W, resulting in a total peak output of 30 W. Furthermore, these drivers offer a frequency response range of 70 Hz to 20 KHz while functioning at 100-240 V. The Soundbar 2.0ch also supports Bluetooth 5.3 along with 3.5 mm AUX, coaxial, optical, and SPDIF physical connections.

    User Interface

    In terms of physical design, the soundbar comes equipped with four hardware buttons. Two of these buttons are dedicated to controlling the volume. As depicted in the image below, Xiaomi has also added a power button and a button for Bluetooth pairing. Additionally, users have the option to mount the soundbar on a wall if they wish.

    Pricing and Availability

    While the Soundbar 2.0ch may not be as packed with features as Xiaomi’s other models, such as the Soundbar 3.1ch, it does not reach the same loudness as its 3.1 counterpart. However, it is priced at €59.99 (~$63), making it less than one-third the cost of the Soundbar 3.1ch, which is currently available for $199.99 on Amazon. As of now, the Soundbar 2.0ch appears to be exclusive to Xiaomi Germany, but it is likely that a wider global release is coming soon.

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    Xiaomi 2.0ch Soundbar: New Bluetooth 5.3 Audio Solution AvailableXiaomi 2.0ch Soundbar: New Bluetooth 5.3 Audio Solution Available

     

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  • Powerbeats Pro 2 Earbuds Leaked Details Ahead of Launch

    Powerbeats Pro 2 Earbuds Leaked Details Ahead of Launch

    Almost five years ago, Beats introduced the Powerbeats Pro (currently priced at $159.99 on Amazon). It appears that the company is poised to announce the next generation soon, having teased the Powerbeats Pro 2 with a brief video last September. Although Beats suggested that these new earbuds would launch this year, they have yet to confirm an exact date.

    Pricing and Release Information

    Recently, Dealabs and leaker @billbil_kun have disclosed information about the colors and pricing, hinting that an official launch may be imminent. It’s rumored that Apple plans to price all models at €299.95, which aligns with the current MSRP for the Powerbeats Pro. However, it’s worth noting that the original price was €50 less when it was released in 2019.

    Color Options and Features

    According to Dealabs and @billbil_kun, the Powerbeats Pro 2 will be available in Electric Orange, Jet Black, Quick Sand, and Hyper Purple. The exact launch date is still unclear, but Bloomberg suggests that the earbuds might be unveiled later this month. The upcoming earbuds are expected to include features such as active noise control (ANC) and spatial audio support, aligning them with other recent releases from Apple.

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    Powerbeats Pro 2 Earbuds Leaked Details Ahead of Launch

     

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  • Korg Launches Trio of Handytraxx Portable Record Players

    Korg Launches Trio of Handytraxx Portable Record Players

    Korg has introduced three Handytraxx portable turntables catering to a range of users, from DJs looking to create fresh mixes to vinyl enthusiasts wishing to preserve their collections. Each model weighs between 5.1 and 6.2 pounds (2.3 and 2.8 kg) and can operate for up to 11 hours using six AA batteries, making them ideal for extended use away from home. The dimensions of these players are 14.6 x 11.0 inches (370 x 280 mm), with the height of the Handytraxx Play at 3.3 inches (84 mm), while the other two models stand at 4.6 inches (118 mm).

    Handytraxx Tube Features

    The Handytraxx Tube is aimed at the typical vinyl buyer. It is crafted for rich, precise sound quality, featuring a Nutube triode vacuum tube in its phono amplifier. A J44A 7 MM-type cartridge from JICO (Nippon Precision Jewel Industry Co., Ltd.) with a synthetic diamond tip, combined with a CPU-regulated, belt-driven aluminum platter, ensures that the music is reproduced with minimal distortion. The wow and flutter rate is kept below 0.15% at 3 kHz, and the signal-to-noise ratio exceeds 60 dB.

    Sound can be enjoyed through integrated stereo speakers, headphones, or USB audio outputs (2-channel, 16-bit, 44.1 or 48 kHz PCM). Users can make precise adjustments to the tube amp and tone (bass, treble) thanks to the analog controls.

    Handytraxx 1bit for Collectors

    The Handytraxx 1bit shares similarities with the Tube but includes the capability to digitize records into high-resolution 5.6 MHz DSD and 192 kHz, 24-bit PCM audio files. This feature helps collectors conserve their vinyl collections by reducing groove wear that happens with each play. These digital files can be played back on the 1bit or any other digital audio player (DAP).

    For DJs who appreciate the charm of scratchy records, the Handytraxx Play is a great fit. This model replaces the tube amplifier to provide space for DJ controls, featuring a digital audio looper that captures and replays parts of the vinyl in real-time, adjustable speed control, three customizable sound filters, and a smooth fader for continuous enjoyment. The tonearm is designed to stay in the groove while scratching.

    Pricing and availability details are yet to be revealed.

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