Category: Audio

  • Audio-Technica ATH-M50x ENSO: Zen-Inspired Over-Ear Headphones

    Audio-Technica ATH-M50x ENSO: Zen-Inspired Over-Ear Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Limited Edition: Only 5,000 units of the ATH-M50x ENSO headphones are available, with 200 buyers receiving a special accessory case and furoshiki cloth.
    2. Unique Design: The headphones feature an all-black look with engravings of sound waves and Zen Buddhism elements, including the Enso circle symbolizing enlightenment.
    3. Specifications: They have 45 mm drivers, a frequency response of 15 Hz to 28 kHz, a sensitivity of 99 dB, and a weight of 285 g (10 oz).
    4. Pricing: The ATH-M50x ENSO headphones are priced at $199 and are available on Amazon.
    5. Availability of Other Models: Customers can still purchase the regular ATH-M50x and wireless ATH-M50xBT2 models even after the limited edition sells out.


    Audio-Technica has introduced the ATH-M50x ENSO over-ear headphones to mark the celebration of the original M50x model that came out in 2014. There are only 5,000 units of these limited-edition, serialized M50x ENSO headphones up for grabs. Among the buyers, 200 randomly chosen ones will receive a special ENSO accessory case along with a Kyoto-dyed furoshiki cloth.

    Unique Design Features

    The ATH-M50x ENSO stands out due to its sleek all-black look, featuring engravings that artistically depict sound waves and elements of Zen Buddhism on the headband and earcups. The Enso circle, which is created with an ink brush by Zen practitioners, represents various principles of the belief system, such as the continuous flow of life, a mind liberated from attachments, and the concept of enlightenment.

    Specifications at a Glance

    Equipped with 45 mm drivers, these headphones boast a frequency response ranging from 15 Hz to 28 kHz. They have a maximum power rating of 1,600 mW at 1 kHz, a sensitivity of 99 dB, along with an impedance of 38 ohms. Weighing in at 285 g (10 oz.), the M50x ENSO comes with a coiled cable and two different lengths of straight cables. The detachable cables end with 3.5 mm (1/8-in.) plugs, and it includes a 6.3 mm (1/4-in.) adapter.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x ENSO headphones are priced at $199 and can be found on Amazon. Even when this limited-edition batch sells out, customers can still purchase the regular ATH-M50x and the wireless ATH-M50xBT2 models from the same online retailer.

    In addition, Audio-Technica has recently launched a limited-edition Hatsune Miku ATH-M50xSTS-USB MIKU headset designed specifically for live streaming, while Notebookcheck has conducted tests on the standard model.

    Source:
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  • EarFun Air Pro 4 Plus: Hi-Res Audio Earbuds with Dual Drivers

    EarFun Air Pro 4 Plus: Hi-Res Audio Earbuds with Dual Drivers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Impressive Sound Quality: Features a 10 mm dynamic driver for low sounds and a FeatherBA balanced armature driver for high notes, along with advanced noise cancellation using six microphones.

    2. Advanced Technology: Powered by Qualcomm QCC3091 SoC, supports aptX Lossless, Auracast, LDAC, LE Audio, and Snapdragon Sound, with a Gaming mode for reduced latency.

    3. Long Battery Life: Offers up to 8 hours of use with ANC activated, 54 hours with the charging case, and fast-charging for 3 hours of playback in just 10 minutes.

    4. Durability: Rated IP55, making the earbuds resistant to dust and water.

    5. Affordable Price: Priced at $99.99, available on Amazon.


    EarFun has just introduced the Air Pro 4+ wireless earbuds, designed for those who truly love high-resolution music.

    Impressive Sound Quality

    The Air Pro 4+ is capable of delivering a wide frequency range. This is made possible by a 10 mm dynamic driver that handles the lower sounds, paired with a FeatherBA balanced armature driver for the higher notes. Additionally, these earbuds come equipped with QuietSmart 3.0, an advanced AI hybrid active noise cancellation system. This system utilizes a total of six microphones—two feedback, two feedforward, and two main mics—to effectively minimize background sounds and wind noise during calls and while listening to music.

    Advanced Technology

    At the heart of the earbuds is a Qualcomm QCC3091 SoC that operates the AI ANC. It also supports aptX Lossless, Auracast, LDAC, LE Audio, and Snapdragon Sound over Bluetooth 6.0 connections. According to EarFun, the Gaming mode reduces latency to below 50 ms.

    Long Battery Life

    With ANC activated, the earbuds are rated for an impressive eight hours of use, and when combined with the charging case, they can last up to 54 hours. They also feature a fast-charging capability that provides an additional three hours of playback time after just 10 minutes of charging. The earbuds are rated IP55, which means they are resistant to dust and water.

    The EarFun Air Pro 4+ dual-driver wireless earbuds are priced at $99.99 and can be found on Amazon.

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  • Dreamegg Launches Upgraded Sunrise Alarm Clock with App Features

    Dreamegg Launches Upgraded Sunrise Alarm Clock with App Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Dreamegg Sunrise 1+ alarm clock features a circular design with improved light and display options, now offering five light modes and a soft cotton-linen fabric covering.
    2. The sound library has expanded to 34 options, including white noise, nature sounds, and lullabies, along with an increase in alarm tones from 7 to 24.
    3. A new sunset mode mimics natural light decrease for relaxation, alongside the existing sunrise mode for gentle waking.
    4. Users can create six custom routines for personalized sleep and wake patterns, with remote control available via an app and physical buttons.
    5. The Sunrise 1+ is priced at $119.99 in the US and £99.98 in the UK, currently available at a 23% discount from its original UK price.


    Dreamegg has revealed the new Sunrise 1+ alarm clock and sound machine, aimed at consumers in the US and UK. This latest version builds on the original Sunrise 1 design, featuring several enhancements that aim to make your relaxation and waking up moments much more soothing.

    Design and Features

    Similar to its predecessor, the Sunrise 1+ sports a circular face, with a light positioned at the top and a display at the bottom showing the current time. Both sections are covered in a soft cotton-linen fabric. The new model allows users to select from five light modes instead of the previous two, offering various colors, effects, and brightness levels. Additionally, the sound library has been expanded to include 34 options, up from 29, featuring effects like white noise, nature sounds, and soothing lullabies. The alarm tones have also seen an increase, going from 7 to 24.

    Enhanced Usability

    One standout feature of the Sunrise 1+ is the newly introduced sunset mode, which mimics the gradual decrease of natural light to aid in relaxation. This is in addition to the existing sunrise mode that gently awakens users. There’s also the ability to create six custom routines tailored to individual sleep and wake patterns. Moreover, the upgraded model provides remote control via an app, alongside physical buttons on the device for added convenience.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can purchase the Dreamegg Sunrise 1+ alarm clock and sound machine on Amazon US for $119.99. In the UK, it is available on Amazon for £99.98, representing a 23% discount off the original price of £129.99. The duration of this “limited time deal” remains uncertain.

    Source:
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  • Best Free Docker Containers for Media Storage and Organization

    Best Free Docker Containers for Media Storage and Organization

    Key Takeaways

    1. Immich: A self-hosted photo management tool that automatically backs up phone images, organizes photos into a timeline, and features facial recognition and keyword searching.

    2. Navidrome: A web-based music player that allows users to stream their music collection, create playlists, and curate radio stations, but requires well-tagged metadata for effective library management.

    3. Booklore: An e-book management system that supports various formats, provides automated metadata, and includes a built-in e-reader to track reading statistics.

    4. Jellyfin: A self-hosted media server that allows users to create a media library, gather metadata for films and shows, and supports multiple streams for simultaneous viewing.

    5. ROMM: A browser-based platform for organizing and playing retro games, supporting various consoles, with features for metadata scraping, save states, and cross-device gameplay.


    Whether you have a ready-made NAS or decide to construct one from scratch, Docker is compatible with nearly anything. It enables the creation of media libraries accessible via any web browser on your home network. Here are some excellent free containers to help you kickstart your journey with various types of media.

    Immich – A Fantastic Free Software

    Immich is a remarkable software that feels too good to be complimentary. Unlike other “free” services where you end up as the product, Immich resembles Google Photos but is entirely self-hosted.

    Along with its native apps for iOS and Android that automatically back up your phone’s camera roll whenever you connect to your home Wi-Fi, Immich allows you to explore your photo library. It also organizes all your photos and videos into a timeline and marks the locations where they were taken on an interactive map.

    You can still upload images through the web interface, which is useful for those who use digital cameras. The automated facial recognition feature and keyword searching help you locate specific photos within what can become a vast collection. There’s even an Android TV app that lets you display your Immich library as a screensaver.

    Navidrome – Your Music Hub

    Navidrome serves as a web-based music player and browser. It incorporates most features you’d expect from an MP3 player, such as favorites, playlists, ratings, album art, and random play options. Additionally, it allows you to create and curate online radio stations.

    However, Navidrome isn’t designed for library management. You can’t edit the metadata of individual files; it merely organizes your collection into albums and artists, unlike iTunes for Mac or Rhythmbox for Linux. Thus, it’s essential that your library is well tagged beforehand.

    If you wish to modify metadata and oversee your library, you can self-host MusicBrainz Picard to access and change the same files. This setup offers a seamless cross-platform listening experience and lets you manage your library effectively.

    Booklore – Manage Your E-Book Collection

    Booklore enables you to host and manage your own e-book library. It supports all major book formats and automatically downloads metadata to provide cover art and synopses. You can categorize books according to shelves that you create, and different users can be granted access to various libraries. The initial setup allows for unlimited book imports or you can add books directly through the web interface.

    But Booklore is more than just a book manager; its built-in reading feature turns any web browser into a platform-independent e-reader. While you can download books or email them to your preferred device, using the built-in reader tracks your reading statistics, showing what you’ve read, what you’re currently reading, your favorite authors, and much more.

    Jellyfin – A Self-Hosted Media Solution

    Plex was once the leading platform for self-hosting your media, but its quality has declined over the years.

    Jellyfin was created to address the concerns of Plex users by returning to the original idea of a completely self-hosted platform where users retain control of their own data.

    Similar to Plex, you can build your own media library, and Jellyfin will automatically gather metadata, providing an overview of your TV shows or movies, along with ratings from IMDB and Rotten Tomatoes, cast information, and credits. It has native apps for iOS and Android, as well as web access.

    Jellyfin can transcode multiple streams at the same time, given that your hardware can handle it, allowing different users to watch different content all at once.

    ROMM – Organizing Retro Games

    ROMM is an excellent way to organize and play retro games through a web browser. It scrapes metadata for your games from various sources, showcasing screenshots, gameplay videos, and synopses.

    You can play nearly all retro consoles up to the PS1 right in your browser. Gamepads are compatible with both PCs and mobile devices, and there’s even touch screen controls if you need them. Save states are supported, and as long as you’re logged into ROMM with the same account, you can switch devices and continue playing where you left off.

    ROMM supports almost every existing console and can also be accessed through Tinfoil, giving users a method to manage Switch games on modified consoles.

    This list isn’t exhaustive but includes some of the most popular media types and the best Docker containers available for them. You might also want to check out PinePods for managing podcasts, Audiobookshelf for audiobooks, or Tdarr for compressing and reducing the size of your media files. You can even host Steam in a container if you wish to manage your PC games.

    If you’re in search of a NAS that can effectively support several high-performance containers, you might want to look into the Intel i3-based UGREEN DXP6800 NAS, which is currently available at a 15% discount on Amazon.

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  • IKEA Blomprakt Bluetooth Speaker Lamp Launches at Great Price

    IKEA Blomprakt Bluetooth Speaker Lamp Launches at Great Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. The IKEA Blomprakt Bluetooth speaker lamp was launched in July 2025 and is now available in several countries, replacing the Symfonisk Speaker lamp.
    2. The lamp features adjustable LED lighting and Bluetooth capability for streaming music, podcasts, or audiobooks from devices.
    3. User interaction includes a front dial for play/pause, track skipping, volume control, and a separate button for light management.
    4. The Blomprakt does not integrate with the IKEA Smart Home app and is not compatible with the Matter protocol.
    5. Priced at $59.99/£40.00/€59.99, it comes in beige, black, and light blue, with dimensions of 8.7 x 8.1 x 8.8 inches.


    The newly launched IKEA Blomprakt Bluetooth speaker lamp is now available in several countries across the globe. This product was unveiled in July 2025, coinciding with the release of the brand’s Nattbad Bluetooth speaker. It shares similar features with the older Symfonisk Speaker lamp, which will no longer be produced following the end of the IKEA and Sonos collaboration.

    Design and Features

    IKEA’s Blomprakt is characterized as a cozy light fixture that utilizes an LED light source. Its shade can be adjusted at an angle, enabling you to direct the light where you want it, and it also contains the speaker component. With Bluetooth functionality, you can stream music, podcasts, or audiobooks from a linked smartphone or laptop. Additionally, the device allows for the connection of multiple Bluetooth speakers to enhance sound in a multi-speaker setup.

    User Interaction

    The speaker of the Blomprakt is operated via a dial located on the front. Users can press to play or pause, double-press to skip tracks, and turn the knob to control the volume. It features Spotify Tap, which lets users quickly continue their listening by tapping the knob. This feature also enables you to play songs based on your previous listening habits. At the back, there’s a separate button to manage the light, allowing you to turn it on or off or adjust its brightness. However, it is important to note that this speaker lamp does not work with the IKEA Smart Home app and is not compatible with the Matter protocol.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can purchase the IKEA Blomprakt Bluetooth speaker lamp in the US, UK, and France for $59.99/£40.00/€59.99. There are three color options available: beige, black, and light blue. The dimensions of the lamp are 8.7 x 8.1 x 8.8 inches (~22.0 x 20.6 x 22.4 cm).

    Source:
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  • Waterproof Xiaomi Headphones with Swimming Sensors & Offline Music

    Waterproof Xiaomi Headphones with Swimming Sensors & Offline Music

    Key Takeaways

    1. Price and Availability: Xiaomi Bone Conduction Headphones 2 are available for $124 through TradingShenzhen, excluding shipping and import duties.

    2. Bone Conduction Technology: These headphones use bone conduction technology for sound, providing a unique listening experience compared to traditional headphones.

    3. Waterproof Capability: They are waterproof and can be submerged up to 16 feet, making them suitable for swimming.

    4. Battery Life and Storage: The headphones offer up to 12 hours of battery life and come with 32GB of built-in storage for music.

    5. Swimming Features: They include sensors to monitor swimming speed and lap counts, although Bluetooth connections may be disrupted in water.


    The Bone Conduction Headphones 2 from Xiaomi have been around for a bit, but they are now easy to get through imports. Specifically, TradingShenzhen is offering these headphones for $124, not including shipping and any possible import duties or taxes. Customers should be aware that if there is a defect, they may need to rely on the seller’s goodwill for help. That said, considering the relatively low price, this might be an acceptable trade-off. Alternatively, you can find similar headphones on Amazon.

    Unique Sound Technology

    The name of these headphones pretty much gives away their main feature. Instead of using standard drivers to produce sound waves, Xiaomi has gone for bone conduction technology. We highly suggest giving this type of system a try, since the listening experience is quite different from what you would expect with traditional headphones. A major perk of these headphones is their waterproof capability. Specifically, the Xiaomi Bone Conduction Headphones 2 can be submerged at a depth of around 16 feet, making them suitable for swimming.

    Impressive Features

    They offer a battery life that lasts up to 12 hours. You can enjoy music while swimming thanks to the 32GB of built-in storage. However, be cautious as water can interrupt Bluetooth connections, and it’s probably not a great idea to keep your smartphone near the swimming lane in most situations. Regardless, these Xiaomi headphones come with various sensors that can monitor your swimming speed and count your laps.

    TradingShenzhen’s offer is certainly worth considering if you’re in the market for innovative headphones.

     

  • Beyerdynamic Launches DJ 300 PRO X & PRO X CLUB Headphones

    Beyerdynamic Launches DJ 300 PRO X & PRO X CLUB Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Beyerdynamic has launched two models of DJ headphones: DJ 300 PRO X (all black) and DJ 300 PRO X CLUB (black with silver hangers).
    2. The headphones feature low distortion sound quality, covering a frequency range from 5 Hz to 35 kHz, ideal for live DJing.
    3. They weigh 315 g (11.1 oz.) and include 45 mm drivers, with sweat-resistant leatherette ear pads and a cushioned headband.
    4. Connectivity includes a detachable 1.5 m coiled cable with a 3.5 mm plug and an impedance of 48 ohms, along with a 3.5 mm-to-6.35 mm adapter.
    5. Priced at $249/€199, the headphones offer customizable design options and replaceable parts for user convenience.


    Beyerdynamic has introduced the DJ 300 PRO X and DJ 300 PRO X CLUB headphones specially designed for professional DJs. While both models share the same features and performance, they are available in different colors. The PRO X is fully black, whereas the PRO X CLUB features black color with silver earcup hangers.

    Sound Quality and Design

    These closed-back headphones are engineered to deliver sound with low distortion, even at high volumes, which is essential for live DJing in clubs and various venues. They cover a frequency range from 5 Hz to 35 kHz, according to the company.

    Weighing in at 315 g (11.1 oz.), the headphones have 45 mm drivers and sweat-resistant leatherette ear pads attached to a cushioned headband. The package includes both on-ear and over-ear earpads, allowing users to switch according to personal preference. The maximum SPL is 122 dB with the on-ear pads and 117 dB with the over-ear ones.

    Connectivity and Features

    The headphones come with a detachable 1.5 m (4.9 ft.) coiled cable that ends in a 3.5 mm plug and has an impedance of 48 ohms. A handy 3.5 mm-to-6.35 mm (1/8 to 1/4 in.) adapter is also provided. For easy transport, the earcups can rotate, and the Design Cover Caps on each earcup can be customized with unique designs. Additionally, the ear pads, caps, headband pads, and cables can be replaced by the user.

    The Beyerdynamic DJ 300 PRO X series headphones are priced at an MSRP of $249/€199. They can be purchased through the company’s website and will soon be available on the Beyerdynamic store on Amazon US.

     

  • Enhance Podcast Audio Quality with Zoom PodTrak P4next

    Enhance Podcast Audio Quality with Zoom PodTrak P4next

    Key Takeaways

    1. Enhanced Audio Quality: Built-in compressor and AI noise reduction technology improve sound quality, balancing volume and reducing background noise.

    2. User-Friendly Controls: Dedicated buttons and customizable sound pads for easy access to sound effects and features.

    3. Input and Connectivity Options: Four XLR inputs with individual controls, plus options for additional audio sources via Bluetooth or USB, and can function as an external audio interface.

    4. Power and Portability: Can be powered by AC adapter, USB power bank, or AA batteries, with up to 8.5 hours of runtime on lithium batteries.

    5. Affordable Pricing: Priced at $179.99 and available on Amazon, making it accessible for podcasters seeking professional audio quality.


    Zoom has unveiled the PodTrack P4next, an innovative solution for podcasters seeking to achieve broadcast-level audio quality with greater ease.

    Enhanced Audio Quality

    This device features a built-in compressor that regulates the volume levels of voices and sounds. This helps maintain a balanced audio experience for listeners, preventing any excessive loudness or quietness. Furthermore, AI noise reduction technology effectively minimizes background noise, even in outdoor environments. Zoom claims that its vocal tone enhancement eliminates unwanted sibilance and fine-tunes the audio equalization, resulting in professional-grade speech.

    User-Friendly Controls

    Users can quickly access these features using dedicated buttons. Additionally, there are four customizable sound pads that allow users to play a variety of built-in sound effects, such as applause and laughter, or even their custom-recorded sounds.

    Input and Connectivity Options

    The P4next is equipped with four XLR inputs suitable for microphones and instruments. Each input has its own volume control and monitoring headphone level. If only three XLR inputs are utilized, an optional Bluetooth BTA-2 adapter or TRRS/USB input permits the connection of two additional remote audio sources, allowing for a total of five audio inputs.

    The device can also connect via USB-C to computers or smartphones, functioning as an external audio interface that delivers high-quality audio for podcasts and video recordings. When not live broadcasting, the PodTrack can record podcasts in 48 kHz, 24-bit WAV format onto microSD cards.

    Power and Portability

    The P4next can be powered using an AC adapter, USB power bank, or AA batteries. It offers a runtime of 3.5 hours with AA alkaline batteries and up to 8.5 hours with lithium AA batteries. The dimensions of the P4next are 125.9 × 120 × 40 mm (5.0 x 4.7 x 1.6 in.), and it has a weight of 300 g (10.6 oz.).

  • Audio-Technica ATH-ADX7000: Premium Open-Back Headphones Review

    Audio-Technica ATH-ADX7000: Premium Open-Back Headphones Review

    Key Takeaways

    1. High-End Price: The ATH-ADX7000 headphones are priced at $3,499, targeting audiophiles seeking premium sound quality.
    2. Advanced Driver Technology: Features 58mm handcrafted HXDT drivers for cleaner, natural audio with precise alignment of components.
    3. Enhanced Design: Aluminum casing with a honeycomb design improves airflow, contributing to detailed sound performance.
    4. Rich Sound Profile: Offers powerful bass, clear mids, and airy highs, providing an immersive listening experience without harshness.
    5. Included Accessories: Comes with two types of interchangeable earpads, a hard carrying case, and two detachable 3-meter cables for versatility.


    Audio-Technica has introduced the ATH-ADX7000, their latest high-end open-back headphones, promising an “extremely natural, spacious, and comfortable listening experience” at a hefty price of $3,499.

    Advanced Driver Technology

    The ATH-ADX7000 showcases the company’s latest HXDT driver technology, which includes 58mm integrated drivers that are handcrafted in their Machida, Tokyo facility. According to Audio-Technica, this is just part of the entire picture. These diaphragms are meticulously aligned with various driver components such as the baffle plate, magnet, and voice coil, resulting in cleaner and more natural audio across the spectrum.

    Design and Performance

    The driver units are enclosed in an aluminum casing with a honeycomb-punched design, which, as stated by Audio-Technica, enhances the airflow to the diaphragm, leading to more precise and detailed sound performance.

    While premium open-back headphones often struggle with bass, the ATH-ADX7000 is said to produce powerful low-end that feels full and offers excellent control. The company asserts that users will experience a surprisingly rich, tightly controlled bass response from an open design, with mids that clearly reveal subtle details in various instruments. The highs and upper mids are tuned for openness and airiness without coming off as harsh or tiring, providing vocals with an intimate touch and a realistic sense of space throughout the soundstage.

    Included Accessories

    The ATH-ADX7000 comes with two types of interchangeable earpads: high-density velvet earpads aimed at minimizing unwanted resonances for a balanced sound, and Alcantara earpads that are more robust, enhancing deeper bass and softer treble.

    Each set includes a compact hard carrying case, and Audio-Technica is also including two detachable 3-meter, nylon-wrapped cables—one balanced cable with a 4-pin XLRM connector and another unbalanced cable with a 6.3mm gold-plated stereo plug, both featuring Audio-Technica’s A2DC connectors.

    The Audio-Technica ATH-ADX7000 will be available for purchase in the US and UK starting from October 31st at a price of $3,499 and £3,000, respectively.


     

  • AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS Mini PC: Bluetooth Speaker Design & Function

    AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS Mini PC: Bluetooth Speaker Design & Function

    Key Takeaways

    1. Innovative Designs: Mini PC manufacturers are creating imaginative cases with features like RGB lights and unique styles, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.

    2. Integrated Audio: The Soayan EXR1 includes 10 W stereo speakers, a mini subwoofer, and a 24-bit DAC, eliminating the need for external audio devices.

    3. Powerful Hardware: It is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS with 8 cores and 16 threads, and includes a Radeon 780M integrated GPU, but may have limited upgrade options.

    4. Extensive Connectivity: The mini PC offers a variety of ports, including USB4, HDMI 2.1, and a 2.5 GbE port, alongside Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 capabilities.

    5. Pricing Variability: The Soayan EXR1 is priced at $479.97 with 32 GB RAM and a 1 TB SSD, while the same specs under the Chatreey brand cost significantly more.


    When it comes to creating cases, Mini PC manufacturers have been showing a lot of imagination lately. Some designs include flashy features like RGB lights and unique styles, while others aim to offer extra functionalities. For instance, the latest EXR1 from Soayan (also known as the Chatreey EX1 on AliExpress) resembles a portable Bluetooth speaker and might even work as one, but it lacks a rechargeable battery, meaning it must always be plugged in.

    Integrated Audio Features

    In addition to the mini PC components, this round case comes equipped with 10 W stereo speakers, a mini subwoofer, and a 24-bit DAC, which eliminates the need for headphones or external speakers. To add to its appeal, there’s also an RGB light ring on the top.

    Impressive Specs

    On the hardware side, this mini PC is driven by an AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS, featuring 8 Zen 4 cores and 16 threads, along with a Radeon 780M integrated GPU. It reportedly supports 2x DDR5 SO-DIMM slots and 2x M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD slots. However, photos of the motherboard only show one RAM slot and one SSD slot, suggesting that the other slots might be located on the opposite side. This model does not seem to be upgrade-friendly, as the manufacturer advises against disassembling it.

    Connectivity Options

    The selection of ports is quite impressive considering how compact the mini PC is. It includes a USB4 port, three USB-A 10 Gbps ports, a USB 2.0 port, HDMI 2.1 and DP 2.1 video outputs, an audio jack, and a 2.5 GbE port. For wireless connections, it features a Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 card. The case itself measures 6.6 inches (167 cm) in height and 4.4 inches (112 mm) in width, though the mini PC inside appears to occupy less than half of the case’s width.

    As mentioned earlier, this design is available on AliExpress under two different brands. The Soayan EXR1 is the more budget-friendly choice at $479.97, which includes 32 GB of RAM and a 1 TB SSD. The same specifications are offered by Chatreey with the EX1 model, but its price is more than double for some unknown reason.