Category: Audio

October 23, 2025
Bang & Olufsen Launches Centennial Collection for 100th Anniversary
Key Takeaways
1. Bang & Olufsen celebrates its 100th anniversary with the Centennial Collection, featuring three new product versions.
2. The Beoplay H100 headphones come in “Century Brown,” showcasing a vintage design with a silver aluminum frame and brown leather.
3. The Beosound A9 speaker, in “Century Blue,” includes seven drivers and automatically adjusts sound to fit room acoustics.
4. The Beosound A5 is a portable speaker in “Century Brown,” with a built-in battery lasting up to twelve hours and capable of 101 dB volume.
5. The Centennial Collection is available for purchase on Bang & Olufsen’s online store.
Bang & Olufsen was established in Denmark back in 1925. Now, a century later, they are honoring their anniversary with the launch of the Centennial Collection. This collection features three new product versions, starting with the Beoplay H100 flagship headphones in the unique “Century Brown.”
Classic Design
The striking mix of a silver aluminum frame and brown leather gives these high-end headphones a vintage feel. The accompanying leather carrying case is also brown, accented with blue details. The features of the headphones remain the same; according to B&O’s advertising, they provide “amazing sound” and superb noise cancellation, thanks to a total of ten microphones.
Speaker Innovations
The Beosound A9, dressed in “Century Blue,” merges a silver aluminum body with metal legs and a dark blue fabric cover by Kvadrat. This round speaker, measuring 70 centimeters across, is equipped with seven drivers, which includes a 200-millimeter woofer, along with amplifiers delivering a combined output of 1,500 watts. The sound adjusts automatically to match the room’s acoustics.
Portable Sound Solution
The Beosound A5, offered in “Century Brown,” is a more compact speaker that’s perfect for on-the-go use, featuring a handle and a built-in battery that lasts up to twelve hours. With four drivers and an amplifier outputting 280 watts, this speaker is also capable of producing powerful sound at home, reaching volumes of up to 101 dB.
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Tags: Beoplay H100
October 22, 2025
Final Fantasy Composer Nobuo Uematsu on Avoiding AI Use
Key Takeaways
1. Nobuo Uematsu, composer of Final Fantasy, is not interested in using generative AI in his music-making process, valuing personal investment and creative challenges instead.
2. Uematsu believes that the joy of music comes from the effort and struggle involved in creation, which he feels AI cannot replicate.
3. He emphasizes the importance of the human touch in music, stating that listeners connect more deeply with compositions that have personal stories and emotional richness.
4. Uematsu notes that while video game graphics have improved significantly, audio enhancements have largely plateaued, with potential for future advancements in spatial audio.
5. Other game developers, like Hideo Kojima, share Uematsu’s view on AI, seeing it as a collaborative tool while maintaining control over the creative aspects of their work.
In a recent chat with the Japanese Society for Rights of Authors, Composers and Publishers magazine, Nobuo Uematsu, the iconic composer behind Final Fantasy, expressed his clear lack of interest in incorporating generative AI into his music-making process, emphasizing that true joy in composition comes from personal investment and the challenges faced.
Uematsu’s Musical Legacy
At 65, Uematsu has crafted music for the first nine main Final Fantasy titles from 1987 to 2000. He made a comeback in 2020 to recreate the key themes for the Final Fantasy 7 Remake trilogy. During the interview, he remarked that he has “never used it, and probably never will,” in regard to AI tools.
The Human Touch in Music
Uematsu delved into the idea that the joy found in music arises from tackling creative challenges, remarking, “I think there’s more satisfaction in something you’ve created yourself after some effort and struggle.” He also pointed out how listeners relate to the human aspect behind the music, connecting with the composer—something he feels AI lacks, as it generates work devoid of personal stories or emotional richness.
He also said that the “unstable and unique” variations created by humans when playing existing music enhance the listening experience, a quality that AI cannot mimic.
The Future of Game Music
When talking about the progress of music in video games, Uematsu shared that while each gaming generation sees significant improvements in graphics, the enhancement of audio was mostly achieved by the time developers started integrating studio-recorded sounds directly into games. He explained, “Beyond that, it’s probably spatial audio. Final Fantasy X already implemented the idea of spatial audio itself, but the question is how much users will demand it going forward. Another aspect is how smoothly the music that’s being played can be transitioned. That’s an era where AI might handle things well in the future.”
Recently, Hideo Kojima, the mastermind behind Metal Gear Solid and director at Kojima Productions, also shared his perspective on AI being a collaborative “friend” in game development. However, he made it clear that he would take charge of the creative aspects, echoing Uematsu’s sentiments on music composition.
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Tags: Final Fantasy, Generative AI
October 22, 2025
Atoto V10 Double-DIN Head Unit: Karaoke for Your Car
Key Takeaways
1. Advanced Connectivity: The Atoto V10 supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via Bluetooth 5.4 and Wi-Fi, along with DSD256 music and aptX HD streaming.
2. In-Car Karaoke Features: An optional wireless microphone kit with AI vocal removal and DSP audio effects enhances the karaoke experience while driving.
3. Robust Performance: Powered by an 8-core ARM Cortex-A72 CPU, the V10 runs on Android 14, includes 6 GB of RAM, and offers 128 GB of storage for various apps and media.
4. Security Capabilities: With optional 1080P cameras, the V10 can function as a dashcam, allowing users to view recordings on its high-brightness QLED display.
5. Price and Availability: The Atoto V10 is priced at $560.90 and can be purchased through Atoto Direct and Amazon.
Atoto has recently introduced its new 10-inch QLED V10 double-DIN Android 14 head unit designed for vehicles, which includes features for in-car karaoke.
Features and Connectivity
This 7.1.2 channel stereo unit allows music streaming from wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via Bluetooth 5.4 and Wi-Fi. It also supports DSD256 music and aptX HD streams. Users have the ability to fine-tune sound with a 32-band equalizer. Additionally, the unit can automatically optimize speaker output for each seat in the car and adjust volume based on how fast the vehicle is going.
Optional Accessories
An optional AC-MICW2 wireless microphone kit can be added, which includes two handheld mics and a wireless receiver module that connects to the V10 head unit. With features like AI vocal removal and DSP audio effects, users can enjoy singing along to their favorite songs while driving.
Performance and Storage
The V10 head unit can connect to 4G LTE networks when an optional SIM card is used, allowing for web browsing, navigation, and media streaming without needing a smartphone. Powered by an 8-core ARM Cortex-A72 CPU, it runs on Android 14 with 6 GB of RAM and provides 128 GB of storage. This enables the use of popular apps such as Google Maps, Waze, and Spotify. Its HDMI output can also connect with portable LCD projectors, making it great for car camping or tailgating.
Security Features
When optional 1080P cameras are attached, the V10 can function as a security dashcam, offering coverage from up to four cameras around the car. Users can view all recordings of their drives or accidents on the unit’s 1,280 x 800 QLED display, which boasts a brightness of up to 550 nits.
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October 21, 2025
Sony’s 70-Year Audio History: Obsolete Book Project Covers It All
Key Takeaways
1. Sony launched a Kickstarter campaign for the book “Sony: Personal Audio – A Visual Journey 1955–2025,” showcasing its audio history.
2. The 220-page hardcover book features over 100 images and is designed by Jason Maddison with illustrations by Javier D’Amico.
3. This book is a sequel to “Sony: Year by Year, A Visual Journey,” available as part of a bundle.
4. The campaign aims to raise approximately $32,000, having already secured about one-third of the goal within the first hour.
5. If successful, the book will be completed between December 2025 and February 2026, with a release planned between March and June 2026.
Sony has kicked off a Kickstarter campaign for a new book titled “Sony: Personal Audio – A Visual Journey 1955–2025” on Bluesky. This publication takes a nostalgic look at the heyday of the Japanese electronics company, which once ruled the audio market like no other firm.
Exploring Sony’s Audio Legacy
The 220-page book chronicles the history of Sony’s audio innovations, as shared by the author, Eddy. The hardcover edition is roughly 8.3 by 8.3 inches and boasts over 100 images of various devices. This endeavor is backed by publisher Sandeep from 2 Old 4 Gaming, designer Jason Maddison (@PlaySushiUK), and cover illustrator Javier D’Amico (@Javpixel).
A Follow-Up to Previous Works
“Personal Audio – A Visual Journey 1955–2025” is a sequel to the previously released “Sony: Year by Year, A Visual Journey,” which is also offered as part of a bundle. As is typical with crowdfunding initiatives, there are inherent risks for consumers. However, ObsoleteSony seems poised to meet its fundraising target, having already secured about one-third of the approximately $32,000 required within the first hour of the launch.
If the campaign reaches its goal, contributions will be processed on November 26. The hardcover book retails for around $49, not including shipping or potential import charges. It is expected to be completed between December 2025 and February 2026, with a release planned between March and June 2026.
ObsoleteSony via Bluesky
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Tags: Kickstarter Campaign
October 21, 2025
KEF Coda W Hi-Fi Speakers: Bluetooth aptX Lossless & Turntable Support
Key Takeaways
1. Affordable Pricing: The KEF Coda W bookshelf speakers are priced at $999 per pair, making them relatively affordable compared to other KEF models like the LSX II.
2. Versatile Connectivity: They offer multiple connectivity options including Bluetooth 5.4, HDMI, AUX, Toslink, and USB-C, along with a built-in phono preamplifier for direct turntable connection.
3. Sound Quality: Equipped with a KEF Uni-Q driver and a 100-watt amplifier, the speakers can produce frequencies from 38 Hz to 20 kHz, achieving volumes up to 102 dB.
4. Size and Dimensions: The Coda W speakers measure 28.5 x 16.8 x 26.8 centimeters, providing a larger size with enhanced functionality compared to smaller models.
5. Connectivity Limitations: The speakers lack Wi-Fi capabilities, meaning they cannot connect to streaming services like Spotify Connect or AirPlay.
The KEF Coda W bookshelf speakers are designed to captivate with their diverse features and solid sound quality, all at a price that is fairly reasonable, especially by KEF’s standards. At $999 for a pair of active speakers, they are quite affordable, especially when you consider that the noticeably smaller KEF LSX II is priced just below $1,500 on Amazon.
Dimensions and Features
With dimensions of 28.5 x 16.8 x 26.8 centimeters, the Coda W speakers are a bit bigger, yet they offer more functionality. They support Bluetooth 5.4, which includes Qualcomm aptX Lossless, allowing for high-quality, lossless streaming of music that sounds like a CD. The speakers come with various ports like HDMI, AUX, Toslink, and USB-C, making them suitable for both home theater setups and desktop use. One notable feature is the built-in phono preamplifier, enabling direct connection of a turntable to the speakers.
Connectivity Limitations
Unfortunately, the Coda W lacks Wi-Fi capabilities, which means it can’t connect to services like Spotify Connect, AirPlay, or Google Cast. Inside, the speakers feature a KEF Uni-Q driver that combines a 25-millimeter aluminum tweeter and a 130-millimeter magnesium-aluminum woofer. Paired with an integrated 100-watt amplifier, this setup can reproduce frequencies ranging from 38 Hz to 20 kHz at volumes up to 102 dB.
Pricing and Availability
The KEF Coda W is currently available on the manufacturer’s website for $999 per pair. Additionally, a KEF SQ1 floor stand is priced at $399.
KEF’s products continue to push boundaries, all while trying to maintain a competitive edge in the audio market.
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Tags: Bluetooth 5.4
October 18, 2025
Redmi K90 Pro Max: Powerful 2.1 Audio with Bose Subwoofer
Key Takeaways
1. The Redmi K90 series, including the K90 Pro Max, will launch in China on October 23.
2. The K90 Pro Max will feature a unique 2.1-channel sound system with an additional subwoofer speaker for enhanced audio quality.
3. The audio upgrade aims to provide richer bass and improve the listening experience for gaming, movies, and music.
4. The K90 Pro Max is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, matching the performance of current flagship devices.
5. There is uncertainty about whether the standard and Pro K90 models will include the Bose-enhanced audio system, but it’s expected that the Pro variant will be released globally as the Poco F8 Ultra.
Xiaomi is getting ready to unveil its new range of powerful sub-flagship smartphones: the Redmi K90 series, which is set to launch in China on October 23. However, the highlight isn’t just the speed; it’s the audio experience. The flagship Redmi K90 Pro Max will introduce a distinctive 2.1-channel sound system that features an additional speaker serving as a subwoofer.
Major Upgrade in Audio Hardware
This marks a significant advancement in smartphone audio technology. Trusted source Digital Chat Station confirmed this 2.1 configuration on Weibo. The setup will include a dedicated speaker placed on the back of the phone, adorned with the Bose logo, that will act as the subwoofer, handling the lower frequency sounds. This arrangement will enable the device to produce authentic bass. In contrast to the flat and thin sound typical of standard stereo speakers, the K90 Pro Max is expected to deliver a richer, deeper audio experience, greatly enhancing the enjoyment of gaming, movies, and music.
Unique Sound Design
Xiaomi’s earlier promotional images of the K90 Pro Max revealed a unique circular speaker located near the camera module. This sparked curiosity about whether Redmi was just shifting a speaker or adding something new. Thankfully, it turns out that this is indeed a third speaker for a complete 2.1 sound system, giving the Redmi K90 Pro Max a distinctive edge in the competitive high-performance smartphone market.
Power and Performance
Of course, the K90 Pro Max is anticipated to be a powerhouse internally as well. Reports indicate it will be powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, whose performance is on par with the Snapdragon 8 Elite found in current flagship devices. While the chip and audio system are the main attractions, a solid rear camera setup is also expected to complement the device’s features.
At this point, we only know that the Redmi K90 Pro Max will have a third speaker for its 2.1 sound system. The company hasn’t yet provided images of the standard and Pro K90 models to see if the Bose-enhanced component is included in those versions too. That said, fingers crossed that at least the “Pro” variant will feature it, as it is expected to hit the global market later under the name “Poco F8 Ultra.”
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Tags: Redmi K90 Pro Max, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
October 18, 2025
Shanling EC Zero: Portable CD Player with Bluetooth 5.3 & Hi-Res DAC
Key Takeaways
1. The Shanling EC Zero AKM is a portable CD player featuring an all-digital architecture, built on the design of the EC Zero T.
2. It includes an AKM AK4493S DAC and dual amplifiers, offering high-resolution USB DAC functionality and Hi-Fi CD playback.
3. Enhanced playback stability is achieved with a magnetic clamp to minimize noise and vibrations, and users can rip CDs to USB drives as WAV files.
4. Connectivity options include wired headphone and line out options, as well as Bluetooth 5.3 capabilities and an optical SPDIF jack for home theater systems.
5. The player has a 5,500 mAh battery providing up to 18 hours of wireless use, and it features a metal body with a 1.68-inch color LCD display, priced at $319.
The Shanling EC Zero AKM portable CD player has been introduced, offering a range of features that are perfect for those who love CD and high-resolution music. This new model is built upon the foundation of the EC Zero T, which is a portable CD player that utilizes tubes for output circuitry (available for purchase on Amazon), but the EC Zero AKM opts for a more straightforward all-digital architecture.
Impressive Technical Specs
It boasts an AKM AK4493S DAC paired with dual SGM8262-2 amplifiers. This setup allows the EC Zero AKM to function as a USB DAC while also delivering Hi-Fi CD playback. In CD mode, the frequency response ranges from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, and in USB DAC mode, it stretches to 20 Hz up to 40 kHz. The player has a signal-to-noise ratio of at least 117 dB and a total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) of 0.0005% or less, depending on the selected output.
Enhanced Playback Stability
To ensure smooth playback regardless of orientation, discs are secured during use with a magnetic clamp that minimizes mechanical noise and vibrations. Additionally, users can rip CDs to a USB flash drive, saving them as uncompressed WAV files.
Connectivity Options
The EC Zero AKM provides wired headphone and line out options through 3.5 mm single-ended or 4.4 mm balanced connectors, in addition to wireless Bluetooth 5.3 capabilities with aptX Adaptive, aptX, and SBC codecs. It can also connect to home theater systems via its optical SPDIF jack.
Battery Life and Design
Powering the portable EC Zero AKM is a 5,500 mAh battery, giving it up to 10 hours of use with wired headphones and up to 18 hours with wireless headphones. Alternatively, it can be powered using a 5V, 2A USB-C power source.
The player has a metal body with a tempered-glass lid, weighing 575 g (1.27 lbs.) and measuring 158 x 150 x 28 mm (6.2 x 5.9 x 1.1 in.). Near the front edge, you will find a 1.68-inch color LCD display positioned adjacent to the volume slider and control buttons.
Pricing and Availability
The Shanling EC Zero AKM portable CD player carries a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $319, while the PU leather carrying case is priced at an MSRP of $39. Both items can soon be found in the Shanling store on Amazon US, according to the latest news from Shanling.
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Tags: High-Resolution Audio, portable CD player
October 17, 2025
Grado S750 Over-Ear Headphones: Wider Soundstage & Comfort
Key Takeaways
1. Comfort and Sound Quality: The Grado Signature S750 headphones are designed for comfort during long listening sessions with an expansive soundstage.
2. Advanced Drivers: They feature 50 mm drivers made from S2 carbon fiber and a paper composite, ensuring high audio clarity and a frequency range of 6 Hz to 46 kHz.
3. Innovative Earpads: The new Grado B Cushion earpads are designed with eight airflow slits and position drivers closer to the ears for an enhanced listening experience.
4. Premium Build: Hand-assembled in New York, the headphones have an aluminum housing and a leather headband, weighing 460 g (1.0 lbs).
5. Pricing and Availability: Priced at $1,695, the Grado Signature S750 headphones will ship in November 2025, with pre-orders available on the official website.
The Grado Signature S750 over-ear headphones have made their debut as the starting point in the Signature series. These headphones are crafted with drivers and earpads that aim to offer comfort during extended listening times, along with an expansive soundstage.
Design and Performance
Featuring S2 carbon fiber and a paper composite, the 50 mm drivers are powered by aluminum voice coils that are coated in copper. Grado claims that the open-air design ensures high audio clarity and a dynamic response, providing a natural sound experience across a frequency range of 6 Hz to 46 kHz. The total harmonic distortion is reported to be below 0.2% at 100 dB.
Innovative Earpads
The S750 headphones introduce the Grado B Cushion earpads, which include eight airflow slits and position the drivers closer to the ears. This design aims to create a more refreshing listening experience, emphasizing a broader soundstage.
Build Quality and Specifications
Hand-assembled in New York, the drivers and earpads are fitted into an aluminum housing, complemented by a leather headband. The total weight stands at 460 g (1.0 lbs). The 1.8m (6 ft.) detachable cable connects to the S750 through 4-pin mini-XLR connectors and ends with a 6.3 mm plug, featuring an impedance of 38 ohms.
Priced at $1,695, the Grado Signature S750 headphones are expected to ship in November 2025, and interested buyers can pre-order them from the official website. Meanwhile, other more affordable Grado models can be purchased right away on Amazon.
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Tags: Over-Ear Headphones
October 17, 2025
Beyerdynamic DT 270 Pro Studio Headphones Launch at Low Price
Key Takeaways
1. The Beyerdynamic DT 270 Pro headphones provide high-quality sound for music producers, band members, and podcasters at an affordable price.
2. They feature a closed-back, over-ear design with a frequency range of 5 Hz to 24 kHz, ideal for recording and mastering.
3. Comfortable design includes velour ear pads, a padded spring-steel headband, and a lightweight build of 194 g (6.8 oz.).
4. The headphones come with a detachable coiled cable (1.3 to 3 m), a 3.5 mm plug, and adapters for 3.5 mm-to-6.4 mm and 3.5 mm-to-USB-C.
5. Priced at $159.99, the headphones are available on the official Beyerdynamic website and other online retailers like Amazon.
The Beyerdynamic DT 270 Pro headphones offer a great option for music producers, band members, and podcasters who are looking for high-quality sound without breaking the bank.
Design and Sound Quality
These closed-back, over-ear headphones are crafted to deliver precise and detailed audio across a frequency range of 5 Hz to 24 kHz. This makes them ideal for music professionals engaged in recording and mastering, as stated by Beyerdynamic.
Build and Features
Featuring velour ear pads and a padded, spring-steel headband, the headphones weigh just 194 g (6.8 oz.). The earcups are designed to rotate, which helps save space when transporting them.
The headphones are equipped with a detachable coiled cable that measures 1.3 to 3 m (4.3 to 9.8 ft.) and ends in a 3.5 mm plug with an impedance of 45 ohms. For added convenience, both 3.5 mm-to-6.4 mm and 3.5 mm-to-USB-C adapters come with the purchase. Additionally, the ear pads, headband pad, and cable can all be replaced by the user.
Pricing and Availability
You can get the Beyerdynamic DT 270 Pro headphones for $159.99 from the official company website and other online retailers like Amazon.
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Tags: Beyerdynamic
October 16, 2025
Ubo Pod: Raspberry Pi Smart Speaker with Display, Camera, AI Assistant
Key Takeaways
1. The Ubo Pod is a smart speaker built around a Raspberry Pi 4 or 5, designed for modularity and repairability.
2. It features a 1.54-inch IPS screen, two microphones, two speakers, a 5 MP camera, and a seven-button keypad.
3. Users can disable microphones at a hardware level and the camera includes a “physical privacy curtain.”
4. The device is customizable, allowing users to create personalized applications.
5. The Ubo Pod is being funded through a Kickstarter campaign, with a starting price of $109 (excluding Raspberry Pi and shipping).
The Ubo Pod is a unique kind of smart speaker that stands out from traditional options like those from Amazon. This model is built around a Raspberry Pi 4 or Raspberry Pi 5, all housed in a modular case that enhances both its extendability and repairability. Included in the package is a small IPS screen, measuring just 1.54 inches with a resolution of 240 x 240.
Features and Components
Equipped with two microphones and two speakers, each capable of producing two watts, the Ubo Pod enables users to interact acoustically. It also includes a 5 MP camera. For user input, there is a keypad with seven buttons. Notably, users can turn off the microphones at a hardware level using a specific button, and the camera features a “physical privacy curtain.” The dimensions of the device are 130 x 99 x 52 millimeters, and it also contains a temperature sensor, an IR receiver, and an IR transmitter.
Customization Options
One of the key advantages of the Ubo Pod is its flexibility, allowing users to customize it in various ways to create personalized applications. As part of a crowdfunding campaign that carries considerable financial risk for backers, the starting price is $109 (excluding shipping), however, this price does not include a Raspberry Pi.
Crowdfunding Initiatives
The Ubo Pod is currently being promoted on Kickstarter, aiming to gather support from individuals interested in innovative technology solutions.
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Tags: Raspberry Pi 4, Smart Speaker