Category: Audio

December 26, 2024
Astell & Kern x Bandai Namco: Limited Edition AK HC4 USB DAC
Astell & Kern along with Bandai Namco has teamed up to introduce the special AK HC4 Idolmaster Cinderella Girls Edition USB digital-to-analog converter (DAC), aimed at fans of Idolmaster music. This DAC offers support for both USB Audio Class 1 (UAC 1) and USB Audio Class 2 (UAC 2) through USB-C, making it compatible with various smartphones, tablets, computers, and gaming consoles. It provides a low-latency, wired headphone output. The casing is made of royal blue aluminum, featuring the Idolmaster logo, and the packaging prominently displays Nao Kamiya.
High-Quality Sound Performance
The A&K is engineered to deliver high-resolution music playback while maintaining an ultra-low noise level (118 dB @ 1 KHz unbalanced, 118 dB @ 1 KHz balanced) and minimal distortion (0.0005% @ 1 KHz unbalanced, 0.0009% @ 1 KHz balanced). The 32-bit AK4493S chip allows for direct decoding of native DSD256 and 32-bit 384 kHz PCM music streams. Additionally, the Digital Audio Remaster (DAR) technology in the AK4137EQ sample rate converter upscales lower-quality PCM and DSD music streams.
Versatile Audio Connections
Audio is transmitted to headphones using standard 3.5 mm or balanced 4.4 mm connections, delivering substantial power (2 Vrms unbalanced, 3 Vrms balanced) capable of driving high-impedance headphones. The frequency reproduction is impressively accurate (+/- 0.066 dB @ 20 Hz to 70 kHz unbalanced, +/- 0.067 dB @ 20 Hz to 70 kHz balanced). The dimensions of the AK HC4 are 1.16 x 2.54 x 0.57 in. (29.5 × 64.5 × 14.5 mm), and it has a weight of 1.09 oz. (31 g).
Iriver’s authorized dealers in Japan are now taking preorders for the Astell & Kern AK HC4 Idolmaster Cinderella Girls Edition USB DAC, with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of 33,000 yen (~$209). The expected shipping date is January 18, 2025. For those who might not be fans of Idolmaster or Nao-chan but still seek a high-resolution USB DAC for gaming or music, the standard Astell & Kern HC4 is available for purchase on Amazon today.
Source: Link
Tags: AK HC4, Astell & Kern, Idolmaster Cinderella Girls Edition
December 25, 2024
Nubia Launches LiveFlip Earbuds: 15mm Drivers, ENC, 40-Hour Battery
Nubia has launched its new open-ear earbuds, the LiveFlip, in China. They are priced at an introductory rate of 179 yuan ($24), while the standard price will be 249 yuan ($34). Let’s dive into the important specifications.
Specifications of Nubia LiveFlip
These earbuds have an open ear design that focuses on comfort, which makes them great for different activities like commuting, working out, or just enjoying music casually. They are designed to fit securely around the shape of your ear without going inside the ear canal. This feature helps keep them stable during movement, which is ideal for those with active lifestyles. Weighing only 7.6 grams per earbud, they offer a light and comfortable feel.
Audio Quality and Battery Life
When it comes to sound, the LiveFlip is equipped with a large 15mm dynamic driver that produces rich and immersive audio. The sound quality features clear highs, precise mids, and deep bass, making these earbuds a top pick for music lovers. Furthermore, they include Nubia’s professional acoustic tuning, providing an improved listening experience across all sound ranges. Battery life is quite impressive as well, offering up to 10 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, and the charging case boosts total use time to an outstanding 40 hours.
Connection and Features
These earbuds utilize Bluetooth 5.4 technology, ensuring stable connections and minimal lag. They have a range of up to 10 meters, allowing for freedom of movement. The LiveFlip also comes with ENC dual-mic noise reduction technology, which guarantees clear call quality even in loud settings. They have an IPX4 water resistance rating, so they can handle sweat and light rain, making them great for outdoor use. Plus, with intuitive touch controls, users can easily manage volume, switch tracks, answer calls, or activate voice assistants with just a tap.
Tags: Bluetooth 5.4, Nubia LiveFlip, Open-ear earbuds
December 24, 2024
Zebronics Zeb-Axon 200 Party Speaker: 180W RMS, 10H Battery
Zebronics has recently introduced the Zeb-Axon 200, a Bluetooth speaker boasting an impressive 180W RMS output that delivers powerful audio. This release follows the earlier launch of the Zeb Thunder Max wireless headphones in India. The speaker is equipped with five high-quality drivers, featuring a large woofer for rich bass and dual passive radiators that enhance the overall sound experience. Additionally, the speaker is adorned with RGB LED lights, providing a vibrant visual appeal.
Key Features of the Zeb-Axon 200
As previously stated, this speaker showcases an output of 180W RMS and consists of five distinct drivers, which include a 13.3 cm woofer, two 6.98 cm midrange drivers, and two 3.81 cm tweeters, complemented by dual passive radiators for improved bass performance.
Another notable feature is its Z-Sync Mode, which allows users to connect over 100 compatible speakers with just a single button press for synchronized sound. The device is powered by a sophisticated chipset, ensuring consistent performance throughout its functionalities.
Connectivity Options
The Zeb-Axon 200 supports Bluetooth v5.3 for wireless pairing and provides AUX and USB ports for additional connection options. With an IPX6 rating for water resistance, it is perfect for outdoor activities, and its fabric finish adds to its durability. A carry handle is also included for easy transport.
Controls on the top of the Zeb-Axon 200 allow for straightforward operation, giving quick access to power, volume, and connection modes. The battery life lasts up to 10 hours on standard settings (50% volume, LED lights off) and can be recharged using a Type-C cable in about 6 to 10 hours.
Users have the flexibility to select from three EQ modes: Balance Mode for general listening, Sound Monster Mode for an enhanced bass experience, and Vocal Enhance Mode for clearer sound during calls, podcasts, or audiobooks.
Pricing and Availability
The Zebronics Zeb-Axon 200 is currently available for an introductory price of Rs. 9,999 on Amazon.in.
Tags: Bluetooth Speaker, Zeb-Axon 200, Zebronics
December 22, 2024
TOZO NC9 Earbuds: 3-Layer Noise Cancellation & 32 Audio Presets
Wireless earbuds have become a vital part of our daily lives. They blend portability with advanced features such as active noise cancellation (ANC), transparency modes, and customizable sound settings.
TOZO’s Commitment to Innovation
TOZO, a Seattle-based electronics company, has been making strides in this market since 2015. Known for its “Tech Around You” philosophy, the brand aims to provide smart wearable devices that incorporate cutting-edge technology while remaining budget-friendly.
Introducing the TOZO NC9
The Tozo NC9 is a fresh addition to their lineup of earbuds, offering excellent performance and user-friendly options at an affordable price.
TOZO NC9 Specifications
One of the main highlights of the TOZO NC9 is its three-layer hybrid active noise cancellation system. This system uses outward-facing microphones to identify surrounding noise and counter it with matching anti-noise.
Additionally, inward-facing microphones capture sounds within the ear canal, generating anti-noise again to cancel out the remaining sound. Finally, Tozo asserts that the ear caps can block up to 90% of outside noise.
This multi-layered technique guarantees that the NC9 effectively shields you from outside distractions while enjoying your favorite tunes. If you need to be aware of your surroundings, simply switch to Transparency Mode.
When it comes to sound quality, the NC9 features 32 distinct audio preset profiles, enabling you to adjust the sound according to your tastes. You can easily toggle between these audio modes through the Tozo app, which also allows you to create and share custom equalizer settings with others. The app includes six different ANC profiles as well.
Advanced Audio Features
TOZO has included a series of proprietary algorithms in the NC9 that enhance the music-listening experience. These encompass:
- TOZO OrigX: Guarantees realistic sound by compensating for frequency loss as audio travels through the ear canal, bringing you the closest audio experience to reality.
- EarTune AI: Utilizes AI-powered auditory algorithms to personalize sound instantly, fine-tuning audio sensitivity for a bespoke listening experience.
- TOZO Bass+: Features a high-rigidity composite dome and a flexible polymer diaphragm to deliver clear highs and powerful bass.
- TOZO HydroGuard: Provides full water protection with a completely sealed cavity design, along with an IPX8 waterproof rating for dependable performance in wet conditions.
- TOZO SmartPow: Monitors and manages power consumption with ultra-low-power chips and intelligent oversight, ensuring precise battery status updates on the high-definition display.
User-Friendly Design
The NC9 earbuds are made for convenience. Pairing is as easy as opening the charging case—you will automatically connect to the earbuds. Featuring Bluetooth 5.0, the NC9 guarantees stable connectivity and low-latency performance for gaming and streaming.
The NC9 provides up to 14 hours of playback on a single charge, and the charging case boosts this to a remarkable 59 hours. The case features a high-definition display that shows real-time battery level updates. Plus, the earbuds are rated IPX6, making them suitable for workouts and light rain.
The Tozo NC9 earbuds are currently available at a special discount price for a limited time through the Tozo official store and Amazon.
Tags: TOZO, TOZO NC9, wireless earbuds
December 22, 2024
Xiaomi Unveils New Compact Bluetooth Speaker Version
Xiaomi has introduced a new version of its Bluetooth Speaker Mini, a portable audio device that isn’t offered in every region, but can still be bought through direct import. This latest model is being launched in China, where it comes in a fresh burgundy red color. While the specifications remain unchanged, this darker shade of red is designed to be aesthetically pleasing, providing a subtle yet attractive appearance that isn’t overly bright.
Battery and Performance
The speaker boasts an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance and is powered by a 2,000 mAh battery, which offers up to 11 hours of playtime. However, when the lighting feature is turned on, the playtime decreases to 8 hours. The design includes two full-range speakers, each capable of producing 3 watts of sound. Additionally, there’s a passive diaphragm included for enhanced bass. The device streams audio solely through Bluetooth 5.3, and it’s claimed that pairing via NFC is super simple. The USB-C port is designated exclusively for charging, supporting up to 10 watts, and there is no headphone jack present.
Customization and Features
Users can modify both the lighting effects and sound settings via an app, and the speaker supports over-the-air (OTA) updates. The lighting system provides visual cues for operational modes and battery status. In terms of size, the Xiaomi Bluetooth Speaker Mini has a nearly round shape, measuring 7.3 centimeters in diameter and standing at 10.3 centimeters tall. Its weight is approximately 330 grams.
In the Chinese market, this new color variant is priced at about $27. It remains unclear if the speaker will be available globally, but it seems that direct import options could become available soon.
Source: Link
Tags: burgundy red, IP67, Xiaomi Bluetooth Speaker Mini
December 21, 2024
TOZO NC9: Premium Sound & Noise Cancellation at Great Discounts
Finding peace in a loud world can be challenging, but the new NC9 earbuds from TOZO provide a much-needed escape without compromising on sound quality.
Advanced Sound Engineering
The NC9 features outstanding acoustic design paired with excellent noise cancellation technology to create your own personal sound oasis, shielding you from outside interruptions.
Amazing Deals Available
You can grab fantastic offers on the TOZO NC9 at both the official TOZO website and Amazon right now.
The TOZO NC9 boasts a sophisticated three-layer hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC) system, utilizing three microphones that work together seamlessly.
This setup includes external microphones that counteract and neutralize outside noises, an internal microphone that removes leftover sounds in the ear canal, and ear tips designed to block 90% of outside noise from getting in.
Perfect for Calls
Thanks to its dual microphone arrangement, which includes one inner and two outer mics, the NC9 ensures that only your voice is picked up, making these earbuds ideal for crystal-clear voice calls.
TOZO understands that achieving effective ANC isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. With six ANC settings and 32 audio preset options, the TOZO app provides an easy way to customize your listening experience.
The TOZO app also allows you to share your personalized EQ settings with others, enabling you to explore unique sound profiles from fellow music lovers.
Audio Quality
With a range of TOZO’s unique audio technologies, like OrigX and Bass+, the NC9 promises a sound experience that places you right in the middle of the action.
The hybrid ANC of the NC9 doesn’t obstruct your awareness of your environment. The Transparent Mode lets you selectively hear what you want while filtering out distractions.
This means you can stay alert to your surroundings, whether it’s catching an announcement at a station or hearing traffic while walking across the street, all without missing a beat.
Quick and Easy Pairing
Don’t wait to start using the TOZO NC9. Pairing these earbuds with your smartphone or tablet is as simple as opening the charging case. Just turn on Bluetooth on your device, and the earbuds will connect instantly.
The NC9 meets your digital lifestyle needs, whether you’re traveling, working, or simply enjoying some alone time. The earbuds provide a remarkable 14 hours of listening time, and with the charging case, this extends to an incredible 59 hours.
Smart Power Management
TOZO’s SmartPow power management system incorporates smart algorithms for accurate battery and charge monitoring. The charge status of both the earbuds and the case is displayed on a high-definition screen, allowing you to put those battery worries to rest.
Source: Link
Tags: earbuds, Noise Cancellation, TOZO NC9
December 21, 2024
Xiaomi Unveils Burgundy Red Mini Bluetooth Speaker for New Year
Xiaomi has unveiled a special Burgundy Red version of its Mini Bluetooth Speaker to celebrate the Chinese New Year.
Burgundy Red Mini Bluetooth Speaker Features
This Burgundy Red speaker merges useful functionalities with a festive flair. It provides 360° sound through a design that includes three acoustic units with symmetrical full-range speakers, ensuring balanced audio for a complete listening experience.
Rugged and Ready for Adventure
Built to endure challenging environments, the speaker boasts an IP67 rating, making it both dustproof and water-resistant—perfect for outdoor adventures. With its 2000mAh battery, users can enjoy up to 11 hours of playtime on a single charge, and it fully recharges in just 1.8 hours, making it super handy for everyday use.
Connectivity and Personalization
This device supports Bluetooth 5.3 and NFC for quick pairing and smooth music sharing. With Xiaomi’s HyperOS Connect and the Mijia App, users can enjoy over-the-air updates and personalize their sound settings, giving them greater control over their audio experience. Additionally, the speaker comes with customizable RGB lighting. The light strip on top can be modified via the Mijia App, allowing users to create the perfect atmosphere for any event.
Pricing and Availability Details
As part of Xiaomi’s special festive collection, this limited-edition speaker is labeled “心声好礼” (heartfelt gift). It will be available starting December 20, 2024, at 10:00 AM (China time) and is priced at 199 yuan ($28) during the promotional phase, down from its regular price of 229 yuan.
Other Product Launches
In related news, Xiaomi has also launched the Xiaomi Sound Outdoor Speaker in India, alongside the Redmi Note 14 series and Redmi Buds 6. This speaker produces 30W of output with dual subwoofer radiators for well-rounded audio and also features a durable IP67-rated design suitable for outdoor settings.
Source: Link
Tags: Burgundy Red Mini Bluetooth Speaker, IP67, Xiaomi
December 19, 2024
OnePlus Buds Ace 2: Long Battery Life & Durable Design Launching Dec 26
OnePlus is preparing to introduce its newest audio product, the OnePlus Buds Ace 2, on December 26th, alongside the eagerly awaited OnePlus Ace 5 series. After being teased and available for pre-order, the company has officially announced the earbuds on Weibo.
Design and Features
According to the teaser, the Buds Ace 2 features a modern, rounded shape that distinguishes it from the previous model. The cylindrical stems and oval charging case not only look elegant but also promise to fit comfortably. The striking color combination, with the inner part of the grey case highlighted by a bright green accent, gives it a playful, gaming-inspired look. The earbuds will be available in Black and Grey.
Anticipated Specifications
While detailed specifications for the Buds Ace 2 are not yet fully revealed, we can make some educated guesses based on its predecessor, the OnePlus Buds Ace. The original model was well-received for its impressive 36-hour battery life and rapid charging features, allowing for 5 hours of listening time with only a 10-minute charge.
It’s likely that the OnePlus Buds Ace 2 will enhance these aspects, offering even longer battery life and quicker charging. Additionally, the earbuds are expected to have an IP rating for water and dust resistance, making them durable for both indoor and outdoor activities.
Gaming and Audio Quality
The OnePlus Buds Ace 2 is also anticipated to be gamer-friendly with features like low-latency connectivity, powerful sound drivers, and immersive audio technologies, aiming to give users an advantage in competitive gaming.
We expect the OnePlus Buds Ace 2 to support advanced audio codecs such as AAC and LDAC, ensuring high-quality audio streaming from compatible devices. Moreover, active noise cancellation (ANC) is likely to be part of the package, helping users to concentrate on their gaming without disturbances.
Pricing and Future Launches
Considering the competitive price of the original Buds Ace, which debuted at only 249 yuan ($34) in China, the OnePlus Buds Ace 2 should adopt a similar pricing approach.
In terms of global releases, OnePlus is set to launch the Buds Pro 3 in a new Sapphire Blue color, which will match the OnePlus 13’s Midnight Ocean variant, on January 7, 2025. The earbuds are expected to maintain their features, which include 50dB ANC, LHDC 5.0 codec, Google Spatial Audio, and up to 43 hours of battery life.
Tags: Audio Technology, OnePlus Ace 5, OnePlus Buds Ace 2
December 19, 2024
Itel Buds Ace Launch: 25dB ANC, 50 Hours Playtime for Rs 999
itel, a brand recognized for its economical smartphones, has launched its newest product, the Buds Ace ANC, on Amazon. These earbuds aim to deliver an Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) experience without breaking the bank. Let’s dive into what the itel Buds Ace ANC has to offer for its customers.
Notable Features of Itel Buds Ace
The itel Buds Ace ANC is distinguished by its Active Noise Cancellation feature, which can reach up to 25dB, ensuring that you have a captivating listening experience, whether you’re traveling or enjoying your favorite tunes at home. The earbuds come equipped with a 10mm driver, providing strong sound quality that enhances music enjoyment.
Each earbud is powered by a 40mAh battery, and the set includes a 500mAh charging case. The brand claims that users can get up to 50 hours of playback time, making them suitable for prolonged use without frequent recharging. Additionally, a quick 10-minute charge offers up to 3 hours of listening time, which is especially handy for those with busy lifestyles.
Connectivity and Control Features
For connectivity, these earbuds utilize Bluetooth 5.3 technology. With a low latency of 40ms, users can look forward to a seamless audio experience, which is excellent for both gaming and streaming videos. The Buds Ace ANC also comes with user-friendly touch controls that allow for easy track switching, call answering, or activating gaming mode. Plus, they have an IPX5 rating for water resistance, providing added durability for everyday wear.
Pricing and Where to Buy
The itel Buds Ace ANC is priced at Rs. 999 and is set to be available on Amazon starting December 20. To learn more and to make a purchase, check out the product page on Amazon. Customers can choose from color options like Cranberry Juice, Midnight Blue, and White.
Tags: affordable earbuds, Buds Ace ANC, Itel
December 19, 2024
JBL Wave Beam 2 and Wave Buds 2: Affordable ANC Earbuds in India
JBL has launched two fresh models in its Wave Series of true wireless earbuds in India: the Wave Beam 2 and the Wave Buds 2. These earbuds are budget-friendly and come packed with features such as noise cancellation, long-lasting battery life, and sturdy designs, making them perfect for daily use.
Sound Quality and Comfort
Equipped with 8mm dynamic drivers, both earbuds provide JBL’s well-known Pure Bass sound, ensuring that users enjoy clear and balanced audio with solid bass. The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) helps to minimize outside noise, while the Smart Ambient mode allows users to remain aware of their environment when necessary.
JBL Wave Buds 2 Features
Each earbud is fitted with dual microphones that enhance call quality, even in noisy environments, making them great for individuals who frequently make calls on the go. The earbuds hold an IP54 rating, making them resistant to dust and water, thus ideal for outdoor adventures or workouts. The charging case has an IPX2 rating, providing basic protection against water splashes.
JBL Wave Beam 2 Connectivity
Both models utilize Bluetooth 5.3, which guarantees quick and dependable connections. They also support Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair, simplifying the pairing process with Android and Windows devices. The multi-point connection feature allows users to switch easily between two Bluetooth devices, which is useful for multitasking.
Users can tailor their listening experience using the JBL Headphones App, which offers settings for EQ modifications, voice prompts, and soothing sounds. The earbuds can provide up to 10 hours of playback time with ANC turned off, while the charging case adds another 30 hours. If you’re in a rush, a quick 10-minute charge gives you three hours of playback, so they are always ready when you need them.
Price and Availability
The Wave Beam 2 is priced at Rs. 3,999, while you can get the Wave Buds 2 for Rs. 3,499. These earbuds come in various colors: Blue, White, Black, and Pink.
Tags: JBL Wave Beam 2, JBL Wave Buds 2, True Wireless Earbuds