Category: Audio

  • Neurable MW75 Neuro LT: EEG Brain-Tracking Headphones Unveiled

    Neurable MW75 Neuro LT: EEG Brain-Tracking Headphones Unveiled

    Key Takeaways

    1. Neurable launched the MW75 Neuro LT headphones, which are 12% lighter and cheaper than the original MW75 Neuro.
    2. The headphones feature integrated EEG technology to monitor brain activity and provide insights on mental strain and cognitive aging.
    3. Users can gain approximately 33% more “focus time” with the 12-channel EEG functionality.
    4. The MW75 Neuro LT includes active noise cancellation and high-quality sound from 40-millimeter beryllium drivers.
    5. The headphones have a battery life of 10-13 hours with EEG tracking active, and 22 hours without it, and are priced at $499.


    Neurable has just launched the MW75 Neuro LT, which is said to be 12% lighter and a bit cheaper than the original MW75 Neuro. These headphones come with a unique feature taken from the flagship model: an integrated EEG. By using electroencephalography, these headphones are intended to keep track of the user’s brain activity.

    Brain Monitoring Capabilities

    With this technology, the related smartphone application can show various metrics, including how much mental strain the user is experiencing, how well-rested the brain feels in the morning, and the optimal times for light or heavy cognitive tasks. The “Brain Age” feature aims to indicate how different activities and habits influence cognitive aging. The 12-channel EEG is reported to help users gain around 33 percent more “focus time.”

    Impressive Features Beyond EEG

    In addition to the EEG functionality, the MW75 Neuro LT includes impressive features like active noise cancellation (ANC). The sound quality, powered by 40-millimeter beryllium drivers, has been fine-tuned by audio experts at Master & Dynamic. Users can connect to their smartphones through USB-C, AUX, or Bluetooth 5.2, and the headphones also support aptX Adaptive along with SBC and AAC. It’s worth noting, however, that the EEG feature drains battery life significantly, reducing it to only 10 to 13 hours when focus tracking is active. Without this feature, the headphones are still capable of lasting for 22 hours.

    The Neurable MW75 Neuro LT over-ear headphones equipped with EEG are priced at $499. More details regarding the specifications can be found on the official product page.

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  • Apple Powerbeats Fit: Secure Fit for Exercise with Wingtip Design

    Apple Powerbeats Fit: Secure Fit for Exercise with Wingtip Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. Design and Fit: The Powerbeats Fit feature “wingtips” for a secure fit during workouts and have an IPX4 rating for sweat and light rain protection.
    2. Sound Quality: They offer incredibly balanced sound, strong active noise cancellation (ANC), and a Transparency Mode for awareness in busy areas.
    3. Advanced Features: Equipped with an adaptive equalizer and 3D audio compatibility, they pause music playback when one earbud is removed.
    4. Battery Life: The earbuds have a battery life of seven hours, extending up to 30 hours with the charging case.
    5. Pricing and Availability: Priced at $199.99, available in four colors, and come with ear tips in four sizes and a three-month free trial of Apple Music.


    The latest Apple Powerbeats Fit has a similar look to the Beats Fit Pro. Apple keeps using “wingtips” to make sure they fit really well in the ear, even when working out. With an IPX4 rating, these earbuds are protected against sweat and light rain.

    Sound Quality and Comfort

    While the Powerbeats Fit often beat other earbuds when it comes to comfort and fit, Apple also claims that they provide “incredibly balanced sound” along with strong active noise cancellation (ANC) and a Transparency Mode. This mode is particularly helpful for running in busy areas, as it helps users stay aware of their surroundings, such as cars and other possible dangers.

    Advanced Features

    An adaptive equalizer utilizes five microphones to modify the sound of the fully wireless earbuds based on how they fit, ensuring optimal audio quality all the time. Additionally, the Powerbeats Fit are compatible with 3D audio and head tracking. If one earbud is taken out, music playback will automatically pause. The battery life is said to be seven hours, but it can last up to 30 hours with the charging case. The touch-sensitive button on the outside can be personalized through the Beats app.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Powerbeats Fit can be purchased now for $199.99 directly from the manufacturer’s website, and they come in orange, pink, gray, or black. Apple also provides ear tips in four different sizes, and customers can enjoy a free trial of Apple Music for three months.

    Beats by Dre’

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  • Baseus Unveils Affordable Wireless Earbuds with 41-Hour Battery Life

    Baseus Unveils Affordable Wireless Earbuds with 41-Hour Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. Battery Life: The Baseus BP1 wireless earbuds offer up to 41 hours of battery life with the charging case; 7 hours without ANC and 5.5 hours with ANC.

    2. Noise Cancellation: The earbuds feature advanced AI-enabled noise cancellation with up to 43 dB of noise reduction and support for spatial audio for immersive sound.

    3. Comfort and Design: Weighing only 4.1 grams, the BP1 earbuds are designed for comfort and have an IP55 rating for water and dust resistance.

    4. Additional Features: They include dynamic bass boost technology, rapid charging, and Bluetooth 6.0, available in four colors.

    5. Affordable Pricing: Launched in China at CNY 142 (approximately $20), with no current plans for a global release, while the Pro version is available internationally for $27.99.


    Baseus has introduced its latest budget-friendly wireless earbuds called the BP1 in China. The firm asserts that these earbuds can deliver a remarkable battery life of up to 41 hours when used with the charging case. Each earbud is rated for approximately 7 hours of use without active noise cancellation (ANC), but this time decreases to 5.5 hours if the noise-cancelling feature is turned on.

    Impressive Noise Cancellation

    The BP1 earbuds are touted to provide an impressive noise reduction of up to 43 dB, courtesy of their sophisticated AI-enabled four-microphone system. Additionally, Baseus emphasizes that these earbuds support spatial audio, allowing users to enjoy “panoramic sound effects” for a truly engaging listening experience.

    Comfort and Design

    When it comes to design, the Baseus BP1 is designed for comfort. The earbuds are said to weigh just 4.1 grams, and their design is meant to ensure comfort throughout the day. Furthermore, Baseus highlights that these wireless earbuds have an IP55 rating, which means they can withstand splashes and light rain.

    Additional Features and Pricing

    The new earbuds also come with features like dynamic bass boost technology, rapid charging capability, Bluetooth 6.0, and they are available in four stylish colors. Baseus has launched the BP1 in China at a price of CNY 142, which is about $20. While there’s no announcement regarding a worldwide launch, it’s important to note that the company already offers the Pro version in global markets (currently priced at $27.99 on Amazon).

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  • CMF Headphone Pro: Modular, Easy Controls, 100-Hour Battery, €99

    CMF Headphone Pro: Modular, Easy Controls, 100-Hour Battery, €99

    Key Takeaways

    1. Modular Design: CMF Headphone Pro features removable ear cushions available in multiple colors for user customization.

    2. Innovative Controls: Instead of buttons, the headphones use a dial for volume and playback, along with an “Energy Slider” for bass and treble adjustments.

    3. High-Quality Sound: Equipped with advanced drivers and technology that tailors audio based on ear shape for an enhanced listening experience.

    4. Long Battery Life: Offers up to 100 hours of playback time, with 50 hours when using active noise cancellation; features fast charging.

    5. Affordable Pricing: Priced at €99 (~$116) in Germany and Austria, significantly cheaper than the Nothing Headphone (1), which retails for $299.


    Just a few months after Nothing introduced the Headphone (1), its sub-brand CMF by Nothing, which is now operating independently, has revealed its own headphones. The CMF Headphone Pro are touted as the first over-ear headphones featuring a modular design.

    Unique Design Features

    Products from both Nothing and CMF are recognized for their distinctive styles and functionalities that help them to stand apart in the market. This trend continues with the CMF Headphone Pro, which come with removable ear cushions. CMF plans to offer these cushions in various colors, allowing users to customize their headphones.

    The available colors for the headphones include Light Green, Light Grey, and Dark Grey. A promotional video indicates that CMF will also provide Orange ear cushions. Depending on the chosen color, users can mix and match with three additional shades, even opting for different colors for each earcup.

    Advanced Features and Functionality

    The CMF Headphone Pro are not just visually appealing; they pack a range of impressive features. Notably, instead of traditional buttons for volume control, CMF opted for a dial that also manages playback and active noise cancellation. Additionally, there is a slider called the Energy Slider for adjusting bass and treble settings.

    Equipped with 40mm drivers featuring a nickel-coated diaphragm, a 16.5mm copper coil, and a precision bass duct, these headphones deliver rich sound quality with depth and clarity. They can even analyze the shape of a user’s ears and modify the sound for a tailored audio experience.

    Impressive Battery Life and Connectivity

    Like many contemporary headphones, the CMF Headphone Pro offer active noise cancellation (ANC). CMF claims they utilize hybrid ANC technology that can diminish ambient noise by up to 40dB and automatically adjusts based on the surrounding noise levels. Other features include a 3.5mm audio jack, Spatial audio, LDAC support, and double Hi-Res certification.

    In terms of battery performance, the CMF Headphone Pro can achieve up to 100 hours of playback time and 50 hours of talk time on a single charge. However, if ANC is enabled, playback time drops to 50 hours. They also provide fast charging, where a quick 5-minute charge offers 4 hours of playback. Charging is done via USB-C, taking about 2 hours for a full charge. CMF also mentions that users can charge the headphones by connecting them to a phone using a USB-C to USB-C cable.

    The CMF Headphone Pro are priced at €99 (~$116) in Germany and Austria, and CHF 89 in Switzerland, making them considerably more affordable than the Nothing Headphone (1), which retails for $299 on Amazon. They are now available for purchase starting today.

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  • TASCAM Launches FR-AV4 Audio Recorder for Filmmakers

    TASCAM Launches FR-AV4 Audio Recorder for Filmmakers

    Key Takeaways

    1. High-Quality Audio Recording: The FR-AV4 features 32-bit 192 kHz float recording with a dynamic range of 133 dB, eliminating the need for gain adjustments.

    2. Durable Design with Multiple Inputs: It includes four XLR/TRS combo jacks for professional microphones and has a 1.9-inch color touchscreen for easy monitoring.

    3. Timecode Synchronization: The device can generate and sync timecode across multiple cameras, enhancing coordination during shoots.

    4. Remote Control and Connectivity: Users can control the recorder via the TASCAM Recorder Connect app and use it as an audio interface when connected to a computer.

    5. Versatile Power Options: The FR-AV4 can operate on AA batteries, USB-C power, or an optional AC adapter, and it weighs 1.46 lbs with compact dimensions.


    TASCAM has revealed its new field recorder, the FR-AV4, tailor-made for filmmakers and sound recordists.

    Recording Features

    This innovative device captures audio using 32-bit 192 kHz float recording, allowing for four channels of sound and a dynamic range of 133 dB. The company claims this feature removes the need for gain adjustments to avoid clipping, which is a big relief when recording scenes with both quiet and loud parts. Users can save their recordings in either WAV or MP3 formats on SDXC cards that can hold up to 512 GB.

    Design and Usability

    The FR-AV4 sports a durable design and comes equipped with four XLR/TRS combo jacks that provide phantom power for professional mics, like the shotgun mic available on Amazon. For monitoring recording quality, it includes a 3.5 mm headphone jack and a 1.9-inch color touchscreen, making it easy to check audio levels in real time.

    Synchronization and Connectivity

    To aid in syncing footage during shoots with multiple cameras, the FR-AV4 can generate and sync timecode across all connected devices. Additionally, users can control the recorder remotely via the optional TASCAM Recorder Connect smartphone app paired with the AK-BT2 Bluetooth adapter. When connected through USB, it can also function as an audio interface for computers.

    Power and Dimensions

    The field recorder can run on four AA batteries, a USB-C powered source, or an optional PS-P520U AC adapter. It has dimensions of 7.25 x 1.66 x 5.12 inches (184 x 42 x 130 mm) and weighs 1.46 lbs (660 g).

    The TASCAM FR-AV4 is priced at an MSRP of $999 and is set to launch in October 2025. Customers can find it at the TASCAM store on Amazon.

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  • FiiO Launches Snowsky Tiny USB-C Headphone DAC for Premium Sound

    FiiO Launches Snowsky Tiny USB-C Headphone DAC for Premium Sound

    Key Takeaways

    1. FiiO has launched the Snowsky Tiny, a compact external DAC and amplifier for headphones with USB-C connectivity.
    2. Two models are available: Tiny A (3.5 mm jack and USB-C charging) and Tiny B (3.5 mm and 4.4 mm jacks), both supporting high-resolution audio.
    3. The Tiny A can charge devices while playing audio, while the Tiny B can output sound through both jacks simultaneously.
    4. The Snowsky Tiny is compatible with USB Audio Class 1.0 and 2.0, suitable for gaming consoles like PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch.
    5. Both models are priced at $21.99 and are available in black, gold, and silver on Amazon.


    FiiO has introduced the Snowsky Tiny, a compact external DAC and amplifier for headphones that connects to devices using a USB-C port.

    Two Models Available

    The Snowsky Tiny is available in two different versions: the Tiny A, which includes a 3.5 mm headphone jack and a USB-C charging port, and the Tiny B, featuring both 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm headphone jacks. Each model is capable of high-resolution playback, supporting 32-bit, 384 kHz PCM and DSD256 uncompressed audio files, and they both come with Hi-Res Audio certification. An RGB light indicator changes colors to show the quality of the audio source.

    Features of Each Model

    The Tiny A variant allows for audio output while simultaneously charging devices at speeds of up to 2A and 20V. Its dimensions are 29 x 22 x 10 mm (1.14 x 0.87 x 0.39 in.). In comparison, the Tiny B model can output sound through both headphone jacks at once. It measures 35 x 24 x 10.8 mm (1.38 x 0.94 x 0.43 in.).

    Compatibility and Pricing

    Additionally, the Snowsky Tiny is compatible with USB Audio Class 1.0 and 2.0 protocols, so it can be used with gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch.

    Both versions of the FiiO Snowsky Tiny external USB-C headphone DAC are priced at $21.99 and can be found on Amazon in colors like black, gold, and silver.

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  • FiiO FT13 Headphones: Purpleheart Earcups & Birch Drivers

    FiiO FT13 Headphones: Purpleheart Earcups & Birch Drivers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Premium Build Quality: Earcups made from CNC-machined South American purplewood, mounted on a magnesium alloy frame with soft lambskin finish, ensuring durability and comfort.

    2. Exceptional Sound Performance: Features 60 mm birch wood drivers for rich sound with a frequency range of 7 Hz to 40 kHz and enhanced treble clarity.

    3. Passive Noise Reduction: Achieves -26 dB noise reduction through sound-absorbing cotton and specialized chambers.

    4. Advanced Connectivity Features: Utilizes a high-quality detachable cable with 500 monocrystalline copper and silver-plated wires, compatible with multiple connector types.

    5. Price and Availability: Priced at $329.99, available on Amazon in natural purple or black, includes a Yaoli linen storage bag.


    FiiO has introduced the FT13 headphones, featuring closed-ear design and crafted from South American purplewood, aimed at those who love high-resolution music.

    Premium Build Quality

    The earcups are made using CNC machining and finished with a glossy lacquer. These are mounted on a sturdy magnesium alloy frame covered in soft lambskin, which includes ball-bearing sliders and a versatile three-axis swivel mechanism. Inside, sound-absorbing cotton and specialized chambers work together to achieve a passive noise reduction of -26 dB, as per FiiO’s testing.

    Exceptional Sound Performance

    Utilizing 60 mm birch wood drivers that incorporate carbon fiber and wool threads, the headphones deliver a rich auditory experience with enhanced treble clarity, as claimed by the manufacturer. The headphones can reproduce sound across a frequency range of 7 Hz to 40 kHz, boasting a sensitivity of 113 dB at 32 ohms. To further refine sound quality, contoured lambskin and suede earpads are included.

    Advanced Connectivity Features

    The audio signal reaches the drivers via a sophisticated cable consisting of 500 Furukawa monocrystalline copper wires and 500 silver-plated oxygen-free wires, intertwined into an eight-stranded configuration. This design enhances mid and low frequency response, while also facilitating high frequencies and a broader soundstage, according to the company. The detachable cable is compatible with various connectors, including 3.5 mm, 4.4 mm, 6.35 mm, and XLR-4 jacks.

    The FiiO FT13 headphones in purplewood have a suggested retail price of $329.99 and can be found on Amazon in natural purple or black, including a Yaoli linen storage bag.

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  • Xiaomi Sound 2 Max Hi-Fi Speaker: 4 Drivers, 100 Watts Power

    Xiaomi Sound 2 Max Hi-Fi Speaker: 4 Drivers, 100 Watts Power

    Key Takeaways

    1. Design and Dimensions: The Xiaomi Sound 2 Max features a simple metal design, measuring 14.3 × 7.8 × 5.3 inches and weighing about 18 lbs.

    2. Audio Configuration: It includes four drivers: two 4-inch woofers with 30-watt amplifiers, a midrange driver, and a tweeter, delivering sound frequencies from 47Hz to 22kHz at a peak volume of 101dB.

    3. Wireless Capabilities: Users can pair two speakers for stereo sound or connect up to four for surround sound, but it does not support a dedicated subwoofer.

    4. Connectivity Options: The speaker offers RCA and USB-C for wired connections, as well as Bluetooth 5.2 and WiFi 6 for wireless, but does not support Apple AirPlay or Google Cast.

    5. Price and Customization: The Xiaomi Sound 2 Max is priced at approximately $290 in China, with options for fabric, metal, or wood front covers for personalization.


    Xiaomi has just unveiled its latest speaker, which boasts a simple yet elegant metal design. The dimensions of this speaker are 14.3 × 7.8 × 5.3 inches, and its weight is about 18 lbs. Inside the stylish casing, it incorporates four drivers. To be precise, there are two 4-inch woofers, each paired with a 30-watt amplifier. Additionally, it features a midrange driver and a tweeter, which form part of a coaxial driver setup that is driven by a 30-watt and a 10-watt amplifier.

    Sound Performance

    With this configuration, Xiaomi aims to deliver sound frequencies ranging from 47Hz to 22kHz and achieve a peak volume of 101dB. Users have the option to pair two Xiaomi Sound 2 Max speakers for wireless stereo sound, or even connect four units together to set up a surround sound experience. However, it’s important to note that Xiaomi does not allow for the addition of a dedicated subwoofer to the system. The speaker has buttons on the top for easy control of playback and volume adjustments.

    Connectivity Options

    For music playback, the Xiaomi Sound 2 Max can be connected through RCA or USB-C for wired connections, while wireless options include Bluetooth 5.2 and WiFi 6. It is worth mentioning that this speaker only supports a proprietary transmission format, meaning that options like Apple AirPlay or Google Cast are not available. Users can utilize a dedicated smartphone application to tweak the sound using an equalizer. Moreover, built-in microphones are included for users who want to access an AI voice assistant.

    The Xiaomi Sound 2 Max is priced at approximately $290 in China per unit. Customers have the choice of a fabric, metal, or wood front cover, allowing for some personalization.

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  • CMF Headphone Pro Battery Life Beats Nothing’s Headphones

    CMF Headphone Pro Battery Life Beats Nothing’s Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. CMF Headphone Pro is launching on September 29, marking CMF’s first entry into the headphone market.
    2. The headphones feature a vibrant and modular design, as revealed in teaser clips.
    3. Expected battery life is 100 hours, surpassing the Nothing Headphone (1)’s maximum of 80 hours without ANC.
    4. Battery life may decrease when using Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) or different Bluetooth codecs.
    5. The headphones will include an audio jack for wired use and may feature a USB-C port, though its audio transmission capability is still uncertain.


    Ahead of the debut of the CMF Headphone Pro, the company has disclosed a significant feature about this new offering. The Headphone Pro, which is set to be launched on September 29, marks CMF’s inaugural entry into the headphone market and comes just a few months following the release of the Nothing Headphone (1).

    Design and Teasers

    CMF has already shared several teaser clips that give a hint of the headphones’ design, showcasing a vibrant and modular look. Recently, a new update on X has unveiled the battery performance of these headphones. This key information suggests that the CMF Headphones will not only outperform numerous competitors but also exceed the battery capabilities of the Nothing Headphone (1).

    Battery Life Details

    As per a post on X, the Headphone Pro is expected to offer an impressive battery life of 100 hours. While this duration is not completely unique, there’s a limited number of headphones that can claim such longevity. In fact, the Nothing Headphone (1) is marketed as providing up to 80 hours of playback on a single charge, but this is with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) switched off and when using the AAC codec. The battery duration for the Nothing Headphone (1) decreases to 35 hours when ANC is activated with the same Bluetooth codec.

    However, when utilizing the LDAC codec and having ANC disabled, the battery life extends to 54 hours, but drops to 30 hours when ANC is enabled while using LDAC. From this, it can be inferred that the CMF Headphone Pro’s 100 hours of battery life likely refers to usage with ANC off and the AAC codec. Therefore, users should prepare for a decrease in battery life when ANC is active or when they switch to a different Bluetooth codec. Nonetheless, having superior battery life compared to Nothing’s headphones is a plus, especially since they are expected to be more affordable than the Nothing Headphone (1), which retails for $299 on Amazon.

    Additional Features

    The most recent teaser also indicates that the headphones will include an audio jack, allowing them to function as wired headphones when necessary. An earlier teaser suggested the presence of a USB-C port on one of the earcups, but until the official announcement is made, it remains unclear if this USB-C port will support audio transmission as well.

    CMF on X

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  • Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 Update: New Features Now Available

    Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 Update: New Features Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 have received a significant feature update (version 4.467) that enhances audio quality and Gemini Live performance.
    2. The new Adaptive Audio feature adjusts volume automatically, allowing users to stay aware of their surroundings while enjoying audio content.
    3. Loud Noise Protection automatically lowers volume in response to sudden loud noises, but may not protect against very sharp sounds.
    4. Users can now control calls with head gestures, enabling actions like answering or declining calls with nods or shakes of the head.
    5. Gemini Live has improved voice recognition in noisy environments, prioritizing the user’s voice and reducing background noise.


    Good news for folks using the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2! The long-awaited Feature Update (version 4.467), which was revealed last month, has started to be distributed. This significant update aims to introduce new functionalities that enhance audio quality and improve the performance of Gemini Live.

    New Features Introduced

    One of the key features of this update is Adaptive Audio. This is perfect for users who enjoy listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks while taking a stroll, allowing them to remain aware of their surroundings. It automatically modifies the volume and minimizes distracting background noise.

    Loud Noise Protection

    Another addition is Loud Noise Protection. As its name implies, this feature is meant to automatically decrease the volume in response to sudden loud noises. However, Google mentions that it may not shield against very sharp and fast sounds, like gunshots, explosions, or fireworks. Furthermore, when Adaptive Audio is activated, Loud Noise Protection will be enabled by default.

    Handy Gesture Controls

    Additionally, the update finally brings head gestures to the Pixel Buds Pro 2. This means you can answer a call or respond to a text by simply nodding your head. And if you wish to decline a call, a quick shake of your head will do the trick.

    Enhancements to Gemini Live

    Lastly, there’s a considerable enhancement to Gemini Live, which is now better at picking up your voice even in noisy settings. Google asserts that it will give priority to your voice and automatically lessen background sounds.

    The update is being rolled out gradually and should install on your device automatically. However, if you want to check manually, just open the Pixel Buds app, navigate to More Settings, and tap on Firmware update. If you don’t see it immediately, try again in a day or two.

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