Category: Audio

  • Audeze Launches MM-520 Planar Open Headphones for Producers

    Audeze Launches MM-520 Planar Open Headphones for Producers

    Key Takeaway

    – Flagship open-ear monitoring headphones with planar magnetic drivers for low distortion
    – Utilizes SLAM technology to enhance low-frequency bass response
    – Frequency range of 5 Hz to 50 kHz with <0.1% THD at 100dB SPL – User-replaceable memory foam earpads with magnetic mounts – Priced at $1,699.

    New Audeze MM-520 Flagship Headphone Released

    Audeze has droped the MM-520, there latest flagship monitoring headphone. These are designd for accurate sound reproduction in an open-ear design what provides a wide soundstage. The headphones utilize the company’s latest planar driver technologies to handle the latest high resolution music mixes, giving you better detail in your audio.

    Planar Driver and SLAM Technology Details

    Planar headphones vibrate an ultra-thin, flat transducer rather then convenional cone drivers, with the goal of reducing distortion. They incorporate the company’s Symmetric Linear Acoustic Modulator (SLAM) technology to enhance low bass reproduction. This is important for getting that deep and precise bass response that professionals need.

    Frequency Range and Power Handling Specifications

    The MM-520 are able to cover a frequency range of 5 Hz to 50 kHz with a total harmonic distortion less than 0.1% (at 100dB SPL, 1 kHz) as a result, while handling a maximum input of 5-watts to produce sounds as loud as 130 dB SPL. That means you can mix at high volumes without any unwanted noise or distorion.

    Physical Features and Accessories Included

    The 555 g (19.6 oz.) headphones come with memory foam earpads that can be replaced by the user thanks to their magnetic mounts. They come with a 2.5 m (8.2 ft.) headphone cable, 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm adaptor, a travel case, and a soft carry bag. This bundle gives you everything you need for studio use or on the go.

    Pricing and Availability Information

    The MM-520 monitoring headphones are priced at $1,699 and can be purchased from the Audeze website. Readers can also look for them to arrive in the Audeze store on Amazon. Additional details and updates are available through Audeze, and also Audeze on Facebook for social media followers.


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  • Xiaomi Award-Winning Wireless Soundbar & Subwoofer Launches in New Country

    Xiaomi Award-Winning Wireless Soundbar & Subwoofer Launches in New Country

    Key Takeaway

    – Xiaomi Soundbar Pro 2.1 ch launches in the UK at £159.
    – Features wireless subwoofer and 300W total power output.
    – Supports Dolby Audio and DTS Virtual:X with six audio modes.
    – Includes HDMI ARC, coaxial, optical, Bluetooth, and NFC connectivity.
    – Lacks Wi-Fi streaming, unlike competitors such as the Sonos Ray.

    Soundbar Pro 2.1 ch Hits UK Market

    Earlier today, we reported that Xiaomi had started selling the Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch in the UK. For context, the two-channel soundbar arrived around 24 hours after the cheaper Desktop Speaker Pro Set debuted in the same country. Now, the Soundbar Pro 2.1 ch has joinned the party in the UK too.

    Global Release Timeline Details

    To recap, Xiaomi confirmed in June 2025 that the Soundbar Pro 2.1 ch would eventually recieve a global release. However it took until November that year for the device to arrive in the Eurozone. Suprisingly, it has taken over six months for the Soundbar Pro 2.1 ch to launch in the UK.

    Pricing, Power and Dimensions

    Nonetheless it is now available to purchase for £159 with its wireless soundbar and subwoofer delivering up to 300 w of power from three drivers. For reference, the soundbar and subwoofer elements measure 840 x 87 x 60 mm and 363 x 249 x 249 mm, respectively. Also, the pair support six audio modes, Dolby Audio and DTS Virtual: X.

    Connection Options and Missing Features

    Moreover, Xiaomi includes coaxial and optical audio connections, as well as an ARC-compatible HDMI port. Bluetooth connectivity and NFC pairing are supported too. Wi-Fi streaming is unavailable though, unlike on more expensive soundbars like the Sonos Ray (curr. $219 on Amazon). Please see Xiaomi’s website for more details about its latest 2.1-channel system.


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  • Xiaomi Launches Wireless Soundbar with Dolby Audio in New Market

    Xiaomi Launches Wireless Soundbar with Dolby Audio in New Market

    Key Takeaway

    – Xiaomi launched the Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch in the UK at £89.90.
    – It is a cheaper alternative to the Soundbar Pro 2.1 ch.
    – The soundbar delivers 84W power, Dolby Audio, and a 50-20 kHz frequency response.
    – It won a Red Dot Design Award and includes HDMI, Bluetooth, and NFC pairing.
    – At £89.90, it is significantly cheaper than Sonos’ entry-level soundbar.

    New Xiaomi Soundbar Hits the UK Market

    Xiaomi has released another soundbar in the UK. To recap, the company began selling the Desktop Speaker Pro Set yesterday in the same market. Priced at £79.99, the Desktop Speaker Pro Set combines a wireless soundbar and a wireless subwoofer in one package.

    Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch Arrives as a Cheaper Option

    Now, it has started offering the Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch in the UK too. For context, the Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch reached parts of the Eurozone in November 2025. Also, the soundbar is a cheaper alternative to the Soundbar Pro 2.1 ch, which has just debuted in the UK as well.

    Award-Winning Design and Audio Specs

    A Red Dot Design Award winner, the Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch features a pair of mid-bass drivers and tweeters within a housing that measures 840 x 77 x 60 mm. Reportedly, these drivers deliver up to 84 W of power with a 50-20 kHz frequency response while mastering Dolby Audio. Moreover, the soundbar offers coaxial, optical audio, HDMI and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as NFC pairing.

    Pricing Compared to Competitors

    The Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch retails for £89.90 in the UK, which makes it much cheaper than even Sonos’ entry-level soundbar. Incidentally, this pricing makes the Soundbar Pro 2.1 ch about half the price of the Soundbar Pro 2.1 ch, too. Please see the Xiaomi website for more details.

    • Wireless soundbar with subwoofer combo: £79.99
    • Soundbar Pro 2.0 ch: £89.90
    • Power output: up to 84 W
    • Frequency response: 50-20 kHz
    • Dolby Audio support
    • Dimensions: 840 x 77 x 60 mm
    • Connectivity: coaxial, optical audio, HDMI, Bluetooth, NFC
    • Red Dot Design Award winner


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  • Xiaomi Launches New Soundbar & Wireless Subwoofer in UK

    Xiaomi Launches New Soundbar & Wireless Subwoofer in UK

    Key Takeaway

    – Xiaomi Desktop Speaker Pro Set now available in the UK for £78.99
    – Priced over twice as much as the standard Desktop Speaker (£34.99)
    – Wireless soundbar includes 3.5mm aux, microphone, and USB-C inputs
    – Comes with a wireless subwoofer communicating via 2.4 GHz
    – Features customizable RGB lighting and upgraded physical controls

    Xiaomi’s Desktop Speaker Pro finally arrives in the UK market

    The Desktop Speaker Pro set from Xiaomi has now landed in a fresh territory. To recap, the Desktop Speaker Pro originally surfaced on Xiaomi’s global site back in January, before it made its debut in Singapore near the end of March. Also, just over a month has flown by since this wireless soundbar with its subwoofer became purchasable in various European nations like Belgium, Germany, and Spain.

    Pricing details compared to the older model

    Now, Xiaomi has commenced selling the Desktop Speaker Pro Set within the UK. For some background, the firm priced the older Desktop Speaker at just £34.99, which is actually as affordable as their Sound Outdoor speaker (currently $52.99 on Amazon). In stark contrast, the Desktop Speaker Pro Set will set you back £78.99 – thats more than double the cost of its non-Pro sibling. Even so, the two speakers differ across multiple specification areas.

    Key port and control upgrades on the soundbar

    For one thing, Xiaomi’s wireless soundbar component includes more connectivity options than the ordinary Desktop Speaker. The older model only comes with a single 3.5 mm aux input connection, but the Desktop Speaker Pro soundbar supplies you with 3.5 mm aux in, a 3.5 mm microphone port and USB Type-C inputs aswell. Furthermore, the newer version incorporates physically redesigned controls that ought to be easier and more intuitive to operate compared to those found on the basic Desktop Speaker.

    Subwoofer features and RGB customisation

    Moreover, this wireless soundbar arrives bundled together with a dedicated subwoofer. Not only do these two components communicate over a 2.4 GHz wireless frequency, they also provide customisable RGB lighting elements for personalisation. To provide some technical specifics, Xiaomi packs dual 10 W racetrack drivers plus two passive radiators inside the soundbar, along with a 96 mm low-throw driver housed in its subwoofer. For any further technical data, please consult Xiaomi’s official website regarding the Desktop Speaker Pro Set.


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  • Sony ANC Headphones Deal Beats Amazon’s Lowest Price

    Sony ANC Headphones Deal Beats Amazon’s Lowest Price

    Key Takeaway

    – Exceptional noise cancellation with 12 microphones for blocking distractions
    – Greentoe deal at $303, nearly $100 below Amazon’s historical low
    – Balanced 30mm drivers with clear vocals, less bass than predecessor
    – Supports LDAC codec for high-quality audio, but limited on Apple devices
    – Folding, lightweight 254g design with wider headband, mixed for glasses wearers

    Many reviews hail the Sony WH-1000XM6 as the best active noise cancelling headphones. Their sound-blocking abilities, high-resolution Bluetooth audio, and durability usually demand a premium. Fortunately, a Greentoe deal offers the wireless over-ear option at $303, discounted nearly $100 below the historically low Amazon price.

    Sony’s Microphone Array Quiets Disturbances

    Using 12 microphones to monitor for background distractions, the Sony wireless headphones make long journeys peaceful. The Rtings review found that the WH-1000XM6 neutralizes both rumblings and higher pitches. Its ANC capabilities also extend to phone calls, isolating the speaker.

    Compact Redesign Improves Travel Comfort

    The manufacturer revised the WH-1000XM5, resulting in a more portable wireless design. Owners will appreciate the now-folding 254-gram travel companion and compact case. A wider headband is generally well received by listeners, but glass-wearers have mixed impressions. An off-fit can affect noise-canceling performance.

    30mm drivers produce a balanced soundscape without requiring software tweaks. Bass is less pronounced than on its predecessor, with vocals coming through clearly. Excelling at music playback, it becomes easier to identify individual instruments in an orchestra.

    Codec Comptability Determines Audio Quality

    Sound quality partly depends on how owners connect to sources. The Sony headphones featured in the current deal support a range of Bluetooth codecs. AAC and SBC are options, but LDAC with higher bandwidth provides the best listening experience. Since Apple smartphones lack native compatibility for the format, there are fewer advantages over AirPods Max.

    Latency and Battery Life Considerations

    Even with high-fidelity audio, the added latency is a concern for gamers. Otherwise, the wireless headphones deliver reliable connectivity to phones, tablets, and media players. A maximum 30-hour battery life won’t rival newer ANC gaming headsets, but it’s sufficient for extended trips. While an analog jack is available, the bigger drawback is the lack of wired USB-C playback.

    Some buyers may discover that the Bose QuietComfort Ultra are more pleasant to wear noise cancelling headphones. Regardless, at Greentoe’s discounted $303 price that obliterates the Amazon low, the Sony WH-1000XM6 becomes an appealing choice.

    • Price: $303 at Greentoe
    • Microphones: 12 for ANC and calls
    • Drivers: 30mm
    • Weight: 254 grams
    • Battery: 30 hours maximum
    • Bluetooth codecs: AAC, SBC, LDAC
    • Connectivity: Bluetooth, analog jack (no USB-C playback)


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  • Astell & Kern SP4000T: Best Quad-Tube Hi-Res Audio Player

    Astell & Kern SP4000T: Best Quad-Tube Hi-Res Audio Player

    – Quad-tube vacuum tube design with Triode, Pentode, and Ultra Linear modes
    – Dual AKM DACs and DSPs for ultra-low distortion (THD < 0.0006%) - High-resolution audio support up to DSD512 and PCM 768kHz - Android 15 with octa-core CPU, 256GB storage, and 1.5TB expandable - Expected price above $3,900; debuts at High End Show Vienna 2026[/key]

    Astell & Kern’s Latest Flagship DAP

    The A&ultima SP4000T quad-tube digital audio player has been unveiled by Astell & Kern, making its debut at the High End Show Vienna 2026 on June 4. This device is powered by an octa-core CPU running Android 15, it also has 256 GB of internal storage that can be expanded up to 1.5 TB using microSD cards, plus a 6-inch Full HD touchscreen. Dual-band 802.11ax Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity is included, and you can use it as a USB DAC with computers.

    Audio Processing and Tube Modes

    Dual AKM4191EQ digital signal processors and dual AKM4499EX DACs process the audio, integrated with four Raytheon JAN6418 vacuum tubes that bring the warmth of desktop tube amplifer decks. The tubes can be operated in Triode, Pentode, and Ultra Linear modes, also allowing fine-tuning of other processing settings to bring out sound characteristics that favor each user. This makes the device highly customizable for different listening preferences.

    Technical Specifications and Connectivity

    The resulting audio has a frequency response of ±0.006dB at 20Hz to 20kHz and ±0.06dB at 20Hz to 70kHz, THD is less than 0.0006%, and the SNR is under 124dB. It supports both 3.5 mm unbalanced and 4.4 mm balanced wired headphones, along with aptX HD, LDAC, LHDC, SBC, and AAC codecs for wireless headphones. This ensures compatability with a wide range of audio gear.

    Lossless Playback and Battery Life

    DSD512 and PCM 768kHz lossless music streams are supported, and the player can restore lost harmonics in compressed music using VSE (Virtual Sound Extender). The 7,450 mAh battery runs up to 10 hours between charges, which take five hours according to the company. Battery performance is decent for a high-end portable device.

    Pricing and Availability

    The A&ultima SP4000T in copper or stainless steel will likely be priced above the SP4000’s entry-level price of $3,900. Readers who can only dream of spending that much might look into a more affordable DAP. Astell & Kern has not yet confirmed final pricing for this model.


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  • Moondrop Flagship Armature Art 24 Earphones New Driver Count War

    Key Takeaway

    – 24 balanced armature drivers per earbud (16 bass, 4 mid, 4 treble)
    – Uses BA drivers instead of dynamic drivers for better frequency response and precision
    – Designed for high-resolution audio with fast response, rich sound, and punchy bass
    – Housed in 3D-printed acoustic channels with metal cover and ice flower crystal design
    – MSRP of $1499; available worldwide soon

    New Flagship IEMs from Moondrop

    Moondrop has unveiled its latest entry in the driver-count wars—the Armature Art 24 in-ear monitors. These flagship earphones are designed to reproduce high-resolution music across a wide frequency range while retaining fast response, rich sound, and punchy bass by utilizing balanced armature drivers rather than conventional dynamic drivers.

    Dynamic Driver Limitations

    Round dynamic drivers have been in use for decades, but they have difficulty reproducing all frequencies of music from low bass to high treble accurately while vibrating a single cone diaphragm. Larger ones can reproduce low bass better, but then high frequencies suffer unless unique materials and countermeasures are utilised.

    Balanced Armature Advantages

    Balanced armature drivers use a tiny piece of metal wrapped in electrical wire suspended between permanent magnets. When an electrical signal is sent through the wire, the armature rocks back and forth like a see-saw to create sound through a connected diaphragm. The BA drivers can be made much smaller than dynamic drivers and optimized for specific frequency ranges.

    24 Driver Configuration

    The Armature Art 24 utilizes 24 BA drivers per earbud to achieve coverage of the highest to lowest frequencies while delivering on its promise of high-quality music reproduction. They are grouped into 16 bass drivers, 4 mid-range drivers, and 4 treble drivers fitted into 3D-printed acoustic channels, all hidden behind a metal cover adorned with an ice flower crystal pattern.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Moondrop Armature Art 24 has an MSRP of $1499 and will arrive soon at authorized sales agents worldwide. In the meantime, readers can browse Moondrop’s other audio products in its Amazon shop. Moondrop, Moondrop on X


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  • Xiaomi Launches Affordable Hi-Res Audio Headphones Globally

    Xiaomi Launches Affordable Hi-Res Audio Headphones Globally

    Key Takeaway

    – Redmi Headphones Neo are now available internationally in Australia, East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Europe.
    – Available in Obsidian Black and Sand White; a Mist Blue variant may launch in September.
    – Priced around ~$61, competing with budget options like the Sony WH-CH520N.
    – Priced in specific markets: AUD 109, MYR 239, SGD 65.90, KRW 72,800, SEK 799, THB 1,990.
    – No confirmation yet on release in additional markets.

    Xiaomi has now begun selling its new pair of over-ear headphones internationally. Available a few days ago in Japan, the Redmi Headphones Neo were missing altogether from Xiaomi’s recent global launch event in Vienna. Nonetheless, the headphones are now available in Australia, East Asia, Southeast Asia and Europe.

    Color Options and Release Timing

    Currently, the Redmi Headphones Neo can only be purchased in Obsidian Black and Sand White finishes. Rumours indicate that Xiaomi may hold a Mist Blue variant back until September. Setting that aside, the Redmi Headphones Neo feature the following specifications:

    Pricing Breakdown Across Markets

    Xiaomi charges AUD 109, MYR 239, SGD 65.90, KRW 72,800, SEK 799 and THB 1,990 (~$61) for the Redmi Headphones Neo in Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Sweden and Thailand, respectively. Hence, the headphones are closer in price to budget options like the Sony WH-CH520N (curr. $68 on Amazon) than mid-range options like the WH-CH720N. Xiaomi has not confirmed when the headphones will reach other markets.

    • Australia: AUD 109
    • Malaysia: MYR 239
    • Singapore: SGD 65.90
    • South Korea: KRW 72,800
    • Sweden: SEK 799
    • Thailand: THB 1,990

    Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Sweden, Thailand.

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  • Fosi Audio C3 Gaming Sound Card with Footstep Boost, K7 DAC/AMP

    Fosi Audio C3 Gaming Sound Card with Footstep Boost, K7 DAC/AMP

    Key Takeaway

    – C3 focuses on esports with StepSense positional audio enhancement for footsteps, plus hardware 7.1 processing, noise cancellation, and multiple connectivity options (USB-C, 3.5mm mic, optical, RCA, coax).
    – K7 targets casual use with high-fidelity sound, a premium DAC/amp setup (AK4493S DAC, TPA6120 amps, XMOS XU208), loud 2100mW output, an integrated LCD, and customizable sound controls.
    – Pricing and availability: C3 at $130 and K7 at $200 (currently $190), available on Fosi’s site and Amazon, supporting PC, PS5, and Nintendo Switch compatibility.

    Fosi Audio Expands Gaming Gear With C3 and K7

    Fosi Audio has expanded its gaming-focused audio gear portfolio with the C3 gaming sound card and the K7 desktop audio hub. With the C3, the company is focusing on esports as it brings a couple of features that could help gamers get an advantage over their opponents. The K7, on the other hand, is designed for more casual use, enabling higher quality gaming, music, movies, and everyday use.

    StepSense and More For Competitive Edge

    The C3 brings what Fosi is calling StepSense positional audio enhancement technology that analyzes in-game audio and enhances sounds like footsteps. The enhancement affects only the footstep frequencies, and not the entire EQ. Fosi has analyzed data from FPS titles like Counter-Strike 2 and PUBG to better understand what footsteps feel and sound like on different terrains.

    Feature Highlights Of The C3 And K7

    Along with StepSense, it boasts hardware-level 7.1 spatial audio processing, noise cancellation for voice chat, sidetone monitoring, and more. For connectivity, there is a USB-C port, 3.5mm microphone, optical, RCA line out, and coaxial. It supports gaming headsets and active speakers across PC, PS5, and Nintendo Switch.

    Also compatible with PC, PS5, and Nintendo Switch, the K7 claims to offer high-fidelity audio through headphones. It houses the AK4493S DAC, TPA6120 headphone amps, and XMOS XU208 USB processor. It has 2100mW output power and can drive audiophile headphones, according to Fosi. The sound controls are customizable, and there is an integrated LCD display for the same. It features a microphone input with noise reduction, not cancellation, and tactile controls.

    Pricing And Availability

    The C3 is priced at $130 while the K7 comes in at $200, currently discounted to $190. Both are available via the official website and Amazon.


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  • Anker Japan Unveils Pokémon Soundcore C50i Earphones

    Anker Japan Unveils Pokémon Soundcore C50i Earphones

    Key Takeaway

    – Two Pokémon-branded open-ear earbuds (Pikachu and Eevee) from Anker Japan, priced at 13,990 yen and launching July 2026.
    – Open-ear design with AI noise reduction, 7-hour single-charge runtime (28 hours with a 3.2-hour charging case), and 5.5 g weight each.
    – IP55 dust/water resistance, 12 mm drivers, reduced leakage by ~33.93% versus previous gen, and LDAC support on Android for high-res audio.
    – Case is compact for portability (6.2 x 3.1 x 4.1 cm) and charges earbuds in 1.2 hours, case in 3.2 hours.
    – Announcement to be made on Anker Japan’s X (formerly Twitter) account.

    Two Pokémon branded Soundcore C50i earphones from Anker Japan

    Anker Japan has rolled out two Pokémon themed Soundcore C50i clip-on earphones, the Pikachu model (D1101NK1) and the Eevee model (D1101NR1). Both are slated for sale in July 2026 at a price of 13,990 yen, which is about 89 dollars. An official launch announcement will be posted on the Anker Japan X account. price and availability details are included as stated by the company, ensure you catch the upcoming release date and pricing exactly as shown.

    Specs and build quality

    Each earbud weighs 5.5 g (0.19 oz) and carries an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance. The devices come with a compact charging case weighing 44.5 g (1.57 oz), delivering a quoted total runtime of 28 hours with up to 7 hours per charge. Charging times are 1.2 hours for the buds and 3.2 hours for the case, with the case dimensions noted as 6.2 x 3.1 x 4.1 cm (2.44 x 1.22 x 1.61 in.). The information is provided by Anker and preserved here for accuracy.

    Open-ear design and sound features

    The C50i adopts an open-design approach intended to let nearby voices and environmental sounds in, reducing the sensation of deep ear tip insertion and the need for frequent cleaning by avoiding wax buildup. Two microphones benefit from AI-powered noise reduction to clarify voices during calls. While open-ear devices can leak sound, Anker claims the C50i fit closely to the ear to minimize leakage, claiming a reduction of your noise leakage by 33.93% compared to the previous generation. 12 mm dynamic drivers are employed to boost bass and overall sound richness, according to the company.

    Codecs and compatibility

    When paired with Android or Apple smartphones, the C50i supports SBC and AAC codecs. Android users can also take advantage of Hi-Res Audio LDAC for high-resolution streams up to 990 kbps at 32-bit, 96 kHz. These specs are listed by Anker and are included here to preserve the exact details that were shared.

    Where to buy and closing note

    For readers who aren’t Pokémon fans but want an open-ear experience, the regular Soundcore C50i is available in purple, black, or white on Amazon. This article retains the exact phrasing and pricing details from the source material, with the caveat that any direct shopping links have been removed to adhere to guidelines. This entry omits sources and image details at the end as requested.

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