Category: Audio

  • Lightweight JVC Kenwood HA-S60W Wireless Headphones with Foam Earpads

    Lightweight JVC Kenwood HA-S60W Wireless Headphones with Foam Earpads

    Key Takeaways

    1. The JVC HA-S60W headphones feature a unique earpad foam that molds to the ears using body heat for comfort.
    2. Sound is delivered through 30 mm drivers, with five preset EQ modes and adjustable settings via a smartphone app.
    3. The headphones have a battery life of up to 50 hours and require 2.5 hours to recharge.
    4. They support multipoint Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, allowing connection to two devices simultaneously.
    5. The headphones are priced at 6,930 yen (about $50) and will be available in Japan starting November 20, 2025.


    JVC Kenwood has introduced the HA-S60W on-ear wireless headphones in Japan, available in four matte shades: beige, khaki, white, and black. These headphones make use of a special earpad foam that molds to the shape of your ears, activated by your body heat, ensuring a comfortable fit. The earcups have a unique donut-like shape and are designed to swivel and fold for convenient storage and wearing.

    Audio Quality and Features

    The sound is delivered through 30 mm drivers housed within the donut-style earcups. Users can choose from five preset EQ modes, which can be activated by pressing a multifunction button or via a dedicated smartphone application that also allows for further adjustments to various headphone settings.

    Battery Life and Connectivity

    According to JVC, the HA-S60W offers an impressive battery life of up to 50 hours on a single charge, with a recharge time of 2.5 hours. These headphones can connect to two devices at once using multipoint Bluetooth 5.4 technology, supporting both SBC and AAC audio codecs. Additionally, they come with a 1.2 m (3.9 ft.) cable for wired connections.

    For those located in Japan, the headphones are available for purchase on the JVC website for 6,930 yen (approximately $50) or on Amazon Japan, with shipping set to start on November 20, 2025. Customers in the United States might also want to check out a lightweight option from JVC that is available on Amazon US.

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  • Final’s Tonalite Earbuds: Personalized Sound with 3D Scanning

    Final’s Tonalite Earbuds: Personalized Sound with 3D Scanning

    Key Takeaways

    1. Final Audio has launched the Tonalite, their flagship in-ear model, focusing on high-fidelity tuning and personalized acoustics.
    2. The Tonalite uses advanced 3D scanning and in-ear acoustic analysis to create a customized listening experience, referred to as a “truly bespoke” audio experience.
    3. Competing technologies like AirPods Pro and Sony’s WF-1000XM5 use simpler methods for tuning, while Final’s dual-scan method provides a more accurate “digital twin” profile for individual users.
    4. The Tonalite features hybrid ANC, ambient modes, Bluetooth 6, and LDAC codec, with a battery life of up to 8 hours and a total of 24 hours using the charging case.
    5. The Tonalite will be available on Kickstarter starting November 11 at a starting price of $329, with early-bird discounts for the first 500 backers, and general retail availability expected in mid-December 2025.


    Japanese audio company Final Audio, recognized for its detailed craftsmanship and unique approach to sound, has introduced the Tonalite, their newest flagship in-ear model. With the Tonalite, Final aspires to merge their high-fidelity tuning skills with personalized acoustics. They achieve this by employing precise 3D scanning and in-ear acoustic analysis, aiming to provide what they describe as a “truly bespoke” listening experience.

    Advanced Sound Modelling

    While many high-end TWS earbuds now feature hearing tests or ear scans for tuning, Focal’s unique DTAS (Digital Twin Audio Simulation) technology offers a broader modeling of sound movement around your head and into your ears, effectively simulating a live audio experience.

    Competing Technologies

    Models like the AirPods Pro (3rd gen), Sony’s WF-1000XM5, and OnePlus Buds 4 utilize similar methods primarily for 3D spatial audio. Typically, these require you to photograph your ear or complete a tone-hearing quiz. While they improve sound quality over standard options, they still depend on approximated ear shapes or general hearing data. In contrast, Final’s dual-scan method starts by having you use your smartphone to take a multi-angle scan of your head and ears. They even provide a headband with stickers that assist the algorithm in determining the shape of your head and exact ear placements. After that, the earbuds employ built-in microphones to measure how your ear canal detects certain frequencies. The outcome is a “digital twin” profile customized to your specific anatomy and hearing, correcting tiny spectral imbalances that differ among individuals.

    Features and Battery Life

    The Tonalite comes with hybrid ANC and ambient modes, along with support for Bluetooth 6 and LDAC codec for high-resolution streaming. The battery lasts up to 8 hours on a single charge, and the charging case allows for about 24 hours of total use.

    As for pricing and availability, the Tonalite will be available on Kickstarter starting November 11. The starting price for backers is set at $329, but the campaign offers early-bird discounts— the first 500 backers will receive approximately 25% off. Shipping is anticipated to begin soon after the campaign concludes, with general retail availability expected in mid-December 2025.

    Final Audio’s commitment to innovative audio solutions continues with this new offering, aiming to set a new standard in personalized audio experiences.

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  • Grell OAE2 Open-Back Headphones: Premium Sound with FSFM Tech

    Grell OAE2 Open-Back Headphones: Premium Sound with FSFM Tech

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Grell OAE2 headphones, priced at €499, aim to deliver “sound in its purest form” for both studio use and home enjoyment.
    2. The innovative front-facing sound field modulation (FSFM) enhances sound interaction with the ear, offering improved highs, mids, and bass.
    3. User feedback from the OAE1 led to design improvements in the OAE2, including a breathable velour and memory foam headband for better comfort.
    4. The headphones feature a longer extension mechanism to fit various head shapes and have an adjusted frequency response for balanced sound.
    5. The wired OAE2 includes premium silver-plated OFC cables with various connectors and a modular design for easy component replacement.


    Approximately a year after the debut of the OAE1, Grell is introducing the OAE2. Priced at €499, Grell asserts that these new open-back headphones will provide “sound in its purest form,” meaning they aim to be “unadulterated, detailed and emotional.” This makes them ideal not just for studio production, but also for enjoying music or gaming at home.

    Innovative Sound Technology

    The OAE2 features front-facing sound field modulation (FSFM). Unlike traditional headphones, the sound waves hit the ear from the front at an angle. This design is meant to enhance the interaction between sound and the unique shape of each ear, which results in finely resolved highs, clear mids, and tangible bass.

    Enhanced Comfort and Fit

    Grell has taken into account user feedback from the OAE1 while designing the OAE2. As a result, the headband and padding are made from breathable velour and memory foam, which provides a better fit for extended comfort. The extension mechanism has also been made longer to accommodate various head shapes. Additionally, the frequency response has been adjusted to achieve an even more precise and balanced sound.

    High-Quality Connections

    The wired Grell OAE2 includes two premium, silver-plated OFC cables with 3.5 mm connectors (with 6.3 mm adapters) as well as 4.4 mm plugs for fully balanced use. Its modular design allows for all components to be replaceable, ensuring that the headphones last longer.

    Information on when they will be available globally is still awaited, as Grell seems to be gearing up for an international release.

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  • Xiaomi Launches New Outdoor Bluetooth Speakers in Europe

    Xiaomi Launches New Outdoor Bluetooth Speakers in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Color Options: The Xiaomi Sound Outdoor speaker now includes green and gold colors, priced at £34.99 in the UK.

    2. Same Specifications: The new color variants maintain the same specifications as the original model, including 30 W output and Bluetooth connectivity.

    3. Connectivity Features: Bluetooth 5.4 allows for a range of up to 25 meters, and users can connect up to 100 speakers for a multi-speaker experience.

    4. Battery and Charging: The speaker has a 2,600 mAh battery providing about 12 hours of playback, with a 15W USB-C charging time of approximately 2.5 hours.

    5. Durability and Design Award: It has an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance and won a Red Dot Design Award in 2024.


    Two fresh editions of the Xiaomi Sound Outdoor speaker are beginning to become available in Europe. This popular item was first launched in this region at the close of 2024, after being unveiled earlier that same year.

    New Colors Added

    The Xiaomi Sound Outdoor originally came in three colors: black, red, and blue. Now, the brand is adding green and gold options to the Bluetooth speaker lineup. In the UK, both new versions are priced at £34.99, which is the same as the previous models. Product images have been updated in European countries such as Germany; however, the new colors have not yet hit the market there. It is anticipated that they will sell for €34.99, just like the older versions.

    Specifications Remain Unchanged

    Other than the new color options, the green and gold Xiaomi Sound Outdoor speakers are exactly the same as the original model. These speakers produce an output of up to 30 W and have a frequency range from 60 Hz to 20 KHz, along with a woofer boost mode. You can connect two speakers via Bluetooth for True Wireless Stereo sound. Additionally, linking up to 100 speakers is possible for a truly immersive audio experience. Moreover, there’s an integrated microphone that enables hands-free calls using the speaker.

    Connectivity and Battery Life

    Xiaomi’s Sound Outdoor features Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, offering a range of up to 25 m (~82 ft). The device comes with a 2,600 mAh lithium-ion battery that provides around 12 hours of playback at 50% volume. The speaker charges through a 15W USB-C input, taking about 2.5 hours for a full charge. It has an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance and measures 196.6 x 68.0 x 66.0 mm (~7.7 x 2.8 x 2.6 inches) while weighing 597 g (~21.1 oz). It’s also important to mention that this product won a Red Dot Design Award in 2024. Xiaomi has yet to announce when the new green and gold Xiaomi Sound Outdoor will be available in other European nations.

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  • BlitzWolf BW-FYE17: 4 Wireless Earbuds with Charging Case for $26

    BlitzWolf BW-FYE17: 4 Wireless Earbuds with Charging Case for $26

    Key Takeaways

    1. The BlitzWolf BW-FYE17 earbuds are available for preorder at $26, with extra costs for shipping and possible import charges.
    2. They have a semi in-ear design similar to Apple’s AirPods, offering comfort but potentially less secure fit during vigorous activities.
    3. Equipped with 13mm drivers and Bluetooth 5.4, they lack support for high-resolution codecs and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
    4. The charging case can hold four earbuds, features dual battery level displays, and provides a total of 36 hours of battery life.
    5. Each pair of earbuds lasts about 5 hours of use, allowing users to alternate pairs for extended listening.


    The BlitzWolf BW-FYE17 are now up for preorder at a price of $26, not counting shipping and any potential import charges. Since this is a direct import, customers may need to be a little more patient and shouldn’t expect much in terms of customer service if there’s a defect or a need for returns. Nonetheless, this budget-friendly price includes a total of four earbuds along with one charging case.

    Design and Comfort

    These wireless earbuds are quite alike to Apple’s standard AirPods. They feature a semi in-ear design, which doesn’t require deep insertion into the ear canal. This can provide a more comfortable experience compared to traditional in-ear models for some individuals. However, when engaging in vigorous activities like running, the fit might not feel as secure.

    Sound Quality and Connectivity

    Regardless, the BlitzWolf earbuds come with relatively large 13mm drivers. They utilize Bluetooth 5.4 for connection, but they don’t support high-resolution or lossless codecs like LDAC, which isn’t really shocking given the affordable price. The absence of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is also to be expected.

    Charging Case Features

    The charging case has a unique design; you can take out two earbuds from the top and the other two from the bottom. It also features two screens that display the current battery level for all four earbuds, as well as the remaining charge of the case itself. With the case, these earbuds can provide up to 36 hours of battery life, but each individual pair lasts around 5 hours of continuous use. Even after that, users can still enjoy music without significant interruptions by alternating between the two pairs.

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  • HiBy RS8 II Portable DAP Offers Premium Audio for Music Lovers

    HiBy RS8 II Portable DAP Offers Premium Audio for Music Lovers

    Key Takeaways

    1. High Price and Availability: The HiBy RS8 II is priced at $3,899 and can be ordered directly from HiBy, with availability on Amazon’s HiBy store soon.

    2. Advanced Specifications: It features a Qualcomm Dragonwing QCS8550 SoC, 16 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of storage, operating on HiByOS based on Android 13.

    3. Superior Audio Performance: Equipped with Darwin III R2R DAC, it achieves THD under 0.0008% and supports a wide frequency range from 20 Hz to 50 kHz.

    4. Versatile Connectivity: The DAP supports both 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm headphone connections, as well as Bluetooth 5.3 with high-quality audio codecs, and includes a unique AI tonality feature.

    5. Impressive Battery Life: The RS8 II has a 6,000 mAh battery offering over 10.9 hours of playback and supports fast charging with PD 3.0, fully recharging in under two hours.


    HiBy has introduced the RS8 II, a top-tier digital audio player (DAP) with a suggested retail price of $3,899, offered in black or gold. You can order it directly from HiBy, and it should soon be available on Amazon’s HiBy store.

    Power and Design

    The RS8 II runs on a Qualcomm Dragonwing QCS8550 system-on-chip (SoC), comes equipped with 16 GB of RAM, and boasts 512 GB of storage, all while operating on HiByOS, a specialized version of Android 13. It is crafted from machined monoblock aluminum alloy and features a 5.5-inch 1080p LCD screen.

    Audio Performance

    This HiBy player utilizes the newest Darwin III R2R digital-to-analog converter (DAC), achieving a total harmonic distortion (THD) under 0.0008%. It delivers high-resolution audio with a frequency range spanning from 20 Hz to 50 kHz, a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) exceeding 121.6 dB, a dynamic range over 115.2 dB, and channel separation greater than 94.2 dB, depending on the output connector used. The RS8 II features both Class A/B and high-powered Class A amplifiers, which can be used individually or can switch adaptively based on playback needs.

    Connectivity and Features

    The DAP allows for both 3.5 mm unbalanced and 4.4 mm balanced headphone connections, making it compatible with DSD1024, MQA16X, and 32-bit, 1,536 kHz PCM lossless audio formats. Additionally, it supports wireless headphones through Bluetooth 5.3, utilizing the Sony Hi-Res Audio LDAC and aptX Lossless codecs. Users can take advantage of the Sankofa AI tonality feature, which mimics the sound of playback from vintage devices, like record and tape players.

    Battery Life and Charging

    According to HiBy, the RS8 II is powered by a 6,000 mAh battery, providing over 10.9 hours of operation time, depending on the amplifier mode selected. It also supports 80-watt PD 3.0 fast charging, allowing it to recharge in under two hours.

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  • Fiio Launches JadeAudio JT3 Hi-Fi Open-Back Headphones

    Fiio Launches JadeAudio JT3 Hi-Fi Open-Back Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fiio’s JT3 open-back wired headphones are priced affordably at $69.99.
    2. The open-back design enhances sound quality by providing a broader soundstage and reducing heat and pressure.
    3. Features large 50 mm drivers with a frequency range of 10 Hz to 40 kHz, 80 ohms impedance, and 97 dB/mW sensitivity.
    4. Designed for comfort with memory foam earpads, an adjustable stainless steel-zinc alloy headband, and a lightweight build of 330 g (11.6 oz.).
    5. Includes detachable 3.5 mm cables for customization, available in black on Amazon and silver on AliExpress.


    Fiio has introduced the JT3 open-back wired headphones, featuring large 50 mm drivers, for an affordable price of $69.99.

    Enhanced Sound Experience

    The JT3’s open-back structure helps to get rid of heat, moisture, and pressure that often builds up in closed-back headphones. This design also enables the drivers to generate a broader and more open soundstage, as stated by Fiio.

    Impressive Specifications

    Equipped with large 50 mm drivers made from PEK and PU composite diaphragms and surrounded by brass damping rings, these headphones deliver music with a frequency range of 10 Hz to 40 kHz. They come with an impedance of 80 ohms and a sensitivity of 97 dB/mW at 1 kHz.

    Comfortable Design

    The earcups are shielded with an aluminium-magnesium alloy grille, while the memory foam earpads are wrapped in velvety covers that are easy to replace. The earcups connect to a headband made of stainless steel-zinc alloy, featuring ball bearing sliders for a seamless size adjustment. Weighing in at 330 g (11.6 oz.), the JT3 is designed for comfort.

    Customization Options

    The JT3 includes detachable 3.5 mm cables, giving users the option to swap or modify them to fit their preferences. The Fiio JT3 open-back headphones are available in black on Amazon, while the silver version can be found at the Fiio store on AliExpress.

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  • Poco F8 Pro: No Charger Included, Bose Audio Quality Inside

    Poco F8 Pro: No Charger Included, Bose Audio Quality Inside

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Poco F8 Pro has received NBTC certification in Thailand, signaling an upcoming launch.
    2. The phone may be released without a charger included in the box, as per leaks.
    3. It features a “Sound by Bose” logo, indicating a collaboration between Poco and the audio company.
    4. The F8 Pro is expected to have a 50 MP main camera, a 7,100 mAh battery, and support for 100 W charging.
    5. Additional features include Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, IP68/IP69 ratings, and a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, positioning it as a high-end device at a budget-friendly price.


    The Poco F8 Pro has just gotten its NBTC certification in Thailand, which means its launch is coming up soon. However, a recent leak indicates that the phone might be released without a charger included in the box. This information comes from Abhishek Yadav, who also provided an image of the packaging that features a “Sound by Bose” logo.

    Collaborative Branding

    The inclusion of Bose branding marks the first time Poco has teamed up with the audio company, supporting claims that the F8 Pro could be a rebranded Xiaomi Redmi K90. Poco has a history of rebranding Redmi’s K-series devices for markets outside, and the similarities in this case are unmistakable. If the leaks are accurate, the F8 Pro will likely come with a 6.59-inch 2K LTPO display, operating at 120 Hz. It will be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite processor alongside LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.1 storage.

    Camera and Battery Specs

    As for the camera setup, it is anticipated to feature a 50 MP Light Hunter 800 main sensor with optical image stabilization, an 8 MP ultra-wide lens, and a 50 MP telephoto lens that offers 2.5× optical zoom. Additionally, a 20 MP front-facing camera will be there for selfies and video calls. The device is expected to be backed by a 7,100 mAh battery that supports 100 W charging, but customers may have to buy a compatible adapter separately.

    Exciting Potential

    Bose’s involvement is probably the most intriguing aspect of this leak. While Poco phones have generally had good audio quality, teaming up with a well-known audio brand could enhance the overall experience. Other anticipated features include Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, and IP68 and IP69 ratings for water and dust resistance, as well as a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint scanner. These specifications place the F8 Pro in the realm of high-end smartphones, even if the pricing is expected to be more budget-friendly.

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  • Black Shark Fengming S1: Stylish Headset with Exceptional ANC

    Black Shark Fengming S1: Stylish Headset with Exceptional ANC

    Key Takeaways

    1. Black Shark has launched a new over-ear headset priced at ¥379 (approximately $53) in China, with US and Europe availability unknown.
    2. The headset features an impressive battery life of up to 155 hours, which drops to 80 hours with active noise cancellation (ANC enabled).
    3. The ANC technology can block out up to 52 dB of surrounding noise, aided by five microphones for clearer call quality.
    4. It uses Bluetooth 6.0 and includes a special mode to reduce audio latency to 60 ms, ideal for gaming.
    5. The headset offers spatial audio for an immersive sound experience and has rotating earcups for easier storage and transport.


    Some people might be familiar with Black Shark, a brand that is part of Xiaomi. We’ve previously looked at the smartphones from this company. Recently, Black Shark has launched a new over-ear headset that aims to provide excellent sound quality while closely resembling the AirPods Max (you can find them here on Amazon). It is priced at ¥379 (approximately $53) in China, but the cost and availability details for the US and Europe are still unknown.

    Impressive Battery Life

    This headset comes with a built-in 1,000 mAh battery that is said to offer up to 155 hours of listening time. If you turn on the active noise cancellation (ANC), the battery life drops to about 80 hours. Black Shark asserts that their ANC technology can block out as much as 52 dB of surrounding noise, although how well it works really depends on the specific noise frequency. Additionally, the headset is equipped with five microphones to help reduce background sounds (like cars) during calls, improving voice clarity.

    Gaming-Friendly Features

    The Fengming S1 utilizes Bluetooth 6.0 for data transfer. Black Shark mentions that it has a special mode that can cut audio latency down to 60 ms, which might be especially useful for gamers. It also features a type of spatial audio to create a more immersive surround sound experience. The earcups can rotate, making it more convenient to store and transport the headset.

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  • Zoom Launches Instamic Pro Plus C: Audio Recorder for Game Sound Effects

    Zoom Launches Instamic Pro Plus C: Audio Recorder for Game Sound Effects

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Zoom Instamic Pro Plus C is a compact 32-bit float audio recorder, measuring 1.5 x 1 x 0.5 inches and weighing 0.63 ounces.
    2. It comes in two versions: a stereo model with a four-mic MEMS array and a mono model, both featuring a frequency range of 40 Hz to 20 kHz and a maximum sound pressure level of 135 dB.
    3. The recorder supports timecode synchronization for professional use and allows for up to 10 devices to be managed via the Instamic Remote app.
    4. It has a battery life of up to 4.5 hours, takes about 1.15 hours to recharge, and is rated IP67 for water resistance.
    5. The suggested retail price is $199 for the stereo model and $179 for the mono model.


    Zoom has introduced the Instamic Pro Plus C, a small 32-bit float audio recorder that can be easily worn on clothing or attached to vehicles. The dimensions of the recorder are 1.5 x 1 x 0.5 inches (3.8 x 2.5 x 1.3 cm), and it weighs just 0.63 ounce (18 g). It’s been utilized by Fortnite’s sound designer to capture vehicle Foley sound effects.

    Models and Specifications

    There are two versions of the Instamic Pro Plus C audio recorder—one stereo and one mono. Both models share the same specifications, but the stereo version features a four-mic MEMS array with two side mics, while the mono version only uses a four-mic MEMS array.

    The MEMS microphones provide sound across a frequency range from 40 Hz to 20 kHz, with the capability to handle a maximum sound pressure level of 135 dB. According to Zoom, this high SPL combined with 32-bit float and 96 kHz WAV recordings to 16 GB of internal storage allows for recordings without clipping. For professional film set use, the Instamic supports timecode synchronization with a clock accuracy of 2.5 ppm.

    User Control and Battery Life

    Users can manage up to 10 Instamic Pro Plus C recorders via the Instamic Remote app, which also allows control over power, equalization, and timecode sync features. The device has a battery life that lasts up to 4.5 hours, and it takes about 1.15 hours to recharge, as mentioned by the company. With an IP67 rating, the recorder can be safely submerged in water up to 3.3 feet (1 m) deep for a maximum of half an hour.

    The recorder includes three mounting options and can function as a Bluetooth microphone with compatible smartphone applications, as well as various GoPro, Garmin, and Insta360 action cameras.

    The Zoom Instamic Pro Plus C audio recorder is currently available for purchase, with a suggested retail price of $199 for the stereo model and $179 for the mono model.

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