Category: Audio

  • Bop Spotter Music Detection Project Aims to Catch Vibes

    Bop Spotter Music Detection Project Aims to Catch Vibes

    Project creator Riley Waltz has recently initiated a "cultural surveillance" project aimed at discovering the music tastes of one of San Francisco’s iconic neighborhoods, the Mission District. The project cleverly utilizes an old Android phone, although Waltz has not specified the model, along with a solar panel and a microphone positioned towards the street to collect data on the music playing nearby. Music identification is achieved through the well-known Shazam app, and once a song is identified, the details are uploaded to the live Bop Spotter website. This site, featuring a charming classic Gameboy-inspired design, has already cataloged over 100 tracks since its launch a few days ago. Visitors to the site can also see that each identified song comes with a pixel art version of the album cover and links to listen on Spotify and Apple Music. Moreover, the site includes a battery life indicator for the phone powering Bop Spotter, currently at 100 percent, indicating the project is in good shape and ready for more music discoveries.

    Inspiration Behind Bop Spotter

    Waltz notes that Bop Spotter was primarily inspired by ShotSpotter, a system of computers equipped with microphones that utilize AI to analyze sounds when a gunshot occurs. However, there have been doubts regarding the effectiveness of such technology, and Bop Spotter acknowledges this similarity. Thankfully, the focus of Bop Spotter is not on identifying criminals but rather on providing "a constant feed of what’s popping off in real-time."

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  • Fiio CP13 Cassette Player vs Sanyo M4440, Sony WM-10, Technics RS-M24

    Fiio CP13 Cassette Player vs Sanyo M4440, Sony WM-10, Technics RS-M24

    The review on MySKU begins with the author questioning some of Fiio’s promotional claims, particularly the assertion about the "high-voltage 4.2 V power supply." The reviewer wonders how much this actually benefits consumers, especially when the well-regarded Sony WM-10 functions perfectly with just 1.5 V. They note that both devices use a single motor for reference.

    Haptics and Controls

    Moving on to the controls and haptics, the Sanyo player features essential buttons like Play, Stop, Forward, and Rewind. It also includes options for adjusting pitch, volume, treble (important for different cassette types), and left/right balance. The Stop button also works as an Eject button, and all buttons, knobs, and switches are user-friendly. In contrast, the Fiio player has fewer controls, lacking channel balance and treble adjustment. Its volume knob sticks out too much for comfortable daily use. Additionally, the Fiio’s red Play button is confusing, as that color usually indicates Record. To access the cassette compartment, Fiio CP13 users must use their nails, and the buttons are noted to be stiff and noisy, with the design appearing overly angular, seemingly prioritizing looks over functionality.

    Sound Quality

    When it comes to sound performance, the Fiio player lacks a "track search" mode, which means audio cannot continue to play while pressing both Play and Forward, a feature present in the older Sanyo model. The mechanical components of the Fiio player produce noticeable noise during cassette playback, while the Sanyo remains quieter, despite being older.

    The more affordable Technics RS-M24 full-size player is even quieter than both portable devices, with its built-in amplifier generating less static.

    Listening Experience

    A listening test with ATH-M50xBT2 headphones (currently priced at $189 on Amazon.com) indicates that the CP13 struggles with bass and has an excess of treble. The sound from Type 1 and Type 2 cassettes is largely similar on the Fiio player.

    In contrast, the Sanyo player offers improved bass and allows for treble adjustments based on personal preference and cassette type. It also makes fine details easier to hear.

    The Technics RS-M24, on the other hand, simply sounds "nice," showing no weaknesses in any area.

    Lastly, the reviewer tested the frequency response of each cassette player by playing audio segments at various frequencies, including 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 1,000, 11,000, 12,000, 13,000, and 14,000 Hz. The Fiio player did not perform well in this assessment.

    As a small positive note, the reviewer mentions an appreciation for the sound quality of most digital Fiio players.

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  • Zoom H2essential: Versatile Handheld Recorder with 32-bit Audio

    Zoom H2essential: Versatile Handheld Recorder with 32-bit Audio

    Among the highly popular handheld recorders from Zoom, the H2n (currently priced at $125 on Amazon) has always been regarded as an underestimated but powerful tool, thanks to its multi-microphone setup that provides various useful pickup patterns. Now, Zoom has introduced the H2essential (or H2e) as part of its newly updated ‘essential’ series. This model features 32-bit float audio, a higher-resolution color LCD, and an upgraded 3-mic array with a new pickup configuration. Before diving into the details, let’s briefly explain 32-bit float audio and its benefits.

    Understanding 32-bit Float Audio

    In traditional 16-bit or 24-bit audio recording, it is essential to set the right gain before recording to avoid missing quieter sounds or experiencing distortion when the audio levels peak. However, with 32-bit float audio, the dynamic range is significantly expanded, reducing the chance of losing soft or loud recordings. This means that adjustments can be made later on, prior to converting to 24-bit for the final mix. This technology is particularly beneficial for filmmakers and for outdoor recordings in unpredictable and noisy settings. For more information about this technology, continue reading here.

    Features of the H2e

    The H2e is equipped with three internal microphones: two cardioid mics positioned at the front and back, and one bi-directional mic that captures sound from the sides. A newly designed top-mounted button interface allows users to select either the front or rear mics, or both, along with adjusting the stereo width to 90°, 120°, or mono. This results in a total of nine pickup patterns, making it suitable for various applications, such as recording solo musicians, ensembles, interviews, or podcasts.

    Additionally, users can combine the front microphone with an external mic through the 3.5 mm input for ambient sound recordings and sound design. The built-in mixer allows for individual channel level adjustments, and a mid-side recording mode permits stereo width adjustments during post-production.

    Display and Connectivity

    The 1.3-inch full-color LCD screen enables users to monitor the waveforms of each channel. There are also dedicated buttons for accessing the mixer, applying low-cut filters, and inserting marker points in recordings for easier editing.

    The H2e can function as a USB microphone (or audio interface when an external mic and headphones are connected) for streaming, video calls, or music production. It can also record directly onto its microSD card (supporting SDXC up to 2 TB) while being used in this manner. Additionally, it can connect to a smartphone via USB-C or to a camera using the 3.5 mm headphone output.

    Practical Design

    For added convenience, Zoom has included a small speaker in the H2e for quick playback of recordings, as well as a standard tripod mounting thread. This portable recorder can be powered by two AA batteries for up to 11 hours (or 4 hours when using both the onboard and an external mic) or via USB bus power.

    The Zoom H2essential handheld recorder is priced at $170 and is expected to start shipping by late October, although pre-orders are already available at retailers like Adorama and B&H Photo. For those looking for a simpler XY stereo recording option, the Zoom H1essential is available for $100, while the Zoom H4essential, priced at $200, offers 4-channel recording with additional XLR inputs.

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  • Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro Earbuds: Launch Date & Colors Leaked

    Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro Earbuds: Launch Date & Colors Leaked

    Anker is set to release the Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro wireless earbuds on Thursday, October 3, 2024. New details about their features, color choices, and pricing options have emerged. These earbuds will be available in Glossy Black, Glossy Light Blue, and White, with a potential green variant in development that may not be ready for launch. A key highlight is the charging case, which features a built-in display to show the battery levels for both the case and the earbuds. This case is also likely to serve as a camera control for connected devices. Most of the features and specifications were highlighted in an earlier leak, which is summarized below.

    Pricing and Availability

    The pricing for the Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro is not officially confirmed but is anticipated to be around $129.99 in the U.S. (down from $149.99 as noted in earlier leaks), £129.99 in the UK, and €149.99 in Europe, based on the same source. These earbuds are expected to support Bluetooth 5.3 and LDAC, which facilitates high-quality audio streaming, and will feature dual drivers. Additionally, they are equipped with six microphones that offer adaptive noise cancellation, claiming to diminish ambient noise by up to 50 decibels.

    Battery Life and Features

    Previous leaks suggest that the earbuds could achieve up to 30 hours of playback time (using the case) with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) activated. Given all these features, the Liberty 4 Pro’s wireless charging capability positions them as strong competitors in the market, particularly against premium options like the Apple AirPods Pro 2nd generation, which are currently priced at $248.99 on Amazon. Furthermore, the earbuds come with an IPX5 water resistance rating, making them suitable for daily use, including during exercise. It will be fascinating to see how consumers respond when these earbuds are released.

    @AnkerInsider via X/Twitter

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  • Xiaomi Buds 5 Launch: aptX Lossless Audio & Wide-Frequency ANC

    Xiaomi Buds 5 Launch: aptX Lossless Audio & Wide-Frequency ANC

    Xiaomi recently introduced the Xiaomi 14T series smartphones and the Redmi Note 14 series at a global launch event. In addition to these smartphones, the company also presented the Xiaomi Buds 5, which were originally launched in China in July 2024.

    Features of Xiaomi Buds 5

    The Xiaomi Buds 5 are equipped with 11mm dual-magnet drivers and feature Harman AudioEFX tuning, which aims to provide clear and immersive sound. They also support Qualcomm aptX Lossless and Hi-Res Audio certification for enhanced audio quality.

    With a comfortable half-in-ear design, these earbuds come with advanced wide-frequency active noise cancellation (ANC) that offers customizable modes and AI adaptive options, ensuring optimal audio clarity in various settings. To facilitate clear communication, especially in windy conditions, the Buds 5 are designed with triple-mic technology and have built-in audio recording features, making them particularly useful for content creators.

    Connectivity and Battery Life

    For connectivity, the earbuds utilize Bluetooth 5.4 and support dual device smart connection. They also offer a low latency mode of 73ms, which is compatible with selected Xiaomi and POCO devices, such as the Xiaomi MIX Flip, Xiaomi 14 Ultra, Xiaomi 14, POCO F6 Pro, and POCO F6. Xiaomi has indicated that more compatible models will be added in the future.

    In terms of battery performance, the earbuds can provide up to 39 hours of listening time with ANC turned off, and 20 hours with it on. Each earbud lasts approximately 6.5 hours without ANC and 3.5 hours with it activated. Additionally, just a 10-minute charge can deliver up to 2.5 hours of playback. The Buds 5 also boast an IP54 rating, making them resistant to dust and water, suitable for workouts and outdoor activities.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Xiaomi Buds 5 are offered in Graphite Black, Ceramic White, and Titan Gray colors. They are priced at €99.99.

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  • FiiO KA15 Portable DAC and Headphone Amp with Retro Design

    FiiO KA15 Portable DAC and Headphone Amp with Retro Design

    FiiO has established a reputation for making high-quality audio equipment accessible to a wider audience. The Chinese company continues this mission with the introduction of the KA15, a portable DAC and headphone amplifier that features a distinctive retro tape-player design.

    Unique Design Features

    The KA15 is unlike any other product in its category, showcasing a 0.96-inch IPS LCD screen that presents a spinning tape-player animation along with current settings. This design gives it the appearance of a mini version of FiiO’s CP13 cassette player, which is currently priced at $100 on Amazon. The effect is enhanced by the sky blue color, which is shared by both devices. Built from CNC-milled and anodized aluminum, it boasts a robust appearance.

    Functionality and Power Management

    Users can utilize the FiiO Control app (available for Android) to modify various settings, including a 10-band parametric equalizer. For those using it on a desktop, the equalizer can also be adjusted through a web interface. The KA15 offers a powerful desktop mode, delivering a balanced output of 560 mW per channel.

    When connected to mobile devices, the KA15 features an intelligent power consumption system that minimizes battery usage from your phone. FiiO claims that in standby mode, the KA15 consumes up to 93% less power compared to its predecessor, the KA5.

    Audio Performance and Connectivity

    The KA15 supports audio up to 768 kHz/32 bit and DSD256, utilizing dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 chips and dual op-amps. For connectivity, it provides two output options: a 3.5 mm single-ended output and a 4.4 mm balanced output. The 3.5 mm output is compatible with in-line controls and microphones, making it suitable for gaming devices such as the Nintendo Switch and PS5. Additionally, it can function as an SPDIF coaxial for connecting to an external decoder.

    Measuring 52 x 25 x 11 mm (approximately 2 x 1 x 0.4 inches), the KA15 is compact and easy to carry. It also includes a stylish leatherette case with openings for the buttons and display. The KA15 is now available on Amazon for $110 in both black and sky blue.

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  • Xiaomi Redmi Buds 6: Dual Drivers, 49dB Noise Reduction, 42hrs Battery

    Xiaomi Redmi Buds 6: Dual Drivers, 49dB Noise Reduction, 42hrs Battery

    Xiaomi has unveiled the Redmi Buds 6, a new addition to its audio collection, packed with impressive features like dual drivers, a remarkable battery life of up to 42 hours, and effective noise cancellation. Let’s take a closer look at its essential specifications.

    Redmi Buds 6 Features

    The Redmi Buds 6 boasts a dual-driver acoustic design, featuring a 12.4mm titanium-coated diaphragm driver paired with a 5.5mm micro piezoelectric ceramic driver. This combination delivers a rich and dynamic audio experience with deep bass and crisp treble.

    Additionally, these earbuds come with four EQ sound modes, allowing users to customize their listening experience to their liking. With certification from NetEase Cloud Music hardware, the audio quality is tailored for music enthusiasts.

    Noise Cancellation and Microphone Technology

    When it comes to noise cancellation, the Redmi Buds 6 can effectively block up to 99.6% of surrounding noise, thanks to a 49dB noise reduction system. The dual microphones, enhanced by AI noise resistance, can significantly minimize wind noise, even in windy conditions with gusts up to 9m/s.

    Battery Life and Charging

    The Redmi Buds 6 provides an impressive total battery life of up to 42 hours, including the charging case, and offers 10 hours of continuous playback on a single charge. Moreover, the fast charging capability allows for 4 hours of playback after just a quick 10-minute charge, enabling users to enjoy their music without long waiting periods for charging.

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  • Sony announces launch event for new LinkBuds and speaker

    Sony announces launch event for new LinkBuds and speaker

    Sony has announced a launch event, referred to as a ‘new products announcement’. According to teasers released by the company, the event is set to begin at 16:00 UTC on October 1. As is typical for Sony, they have provided a few clues about what to expect, including the slogan ‘Sound Your Way’, which may hint at the potential arrival of a new Xperia smartphone.

    Updates on Xperia Devices

    Recently, Sony confirmed to Japanese media that there will be no new Xperia 5 model introduced this year. Furthermore, there are no signs that the company plans to launch successors to the WH-1000XM5 or WF-1000XM5 models this year, either. Just recently, Sony updated these models with new color options.

    Rumors of New Earbuds

    However, there are speculations about the development of next-generation LinkBuds earbuds, which seem to be supported by Sony’s teaser. The silhouettes featured in the teaser suggest that the company may be working on at least new versions of the LinkBuds and LinkBuds S, which currently retail for $198 on Amazon. Additionally, a third device is visible in the teaser, which The Walkman Blog suggests could be a type of speaker. The blog claims to have received the following details regarding the unnamed speaker:

    The earbuds can be stored within this speaker, which is capable of playing music. When the earbuds are removed from the speaker, the music seamlessly transfers to them. This could potentially involve auracast technology at work.

    Sony via The Walkman Blog

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  • Xiaomi Bluetooth Speaker Launches Stellar Grey Color

    Xiaomi Bluetooth Speaker Launches Stellar Grey Color

    Xiaomi has introduced a new “Stellar Grey” color option for its well-received Bluetooth Speaker this autumn. This release comes after the speaker was first launched earlier this year, which was only available in Black. The “Stellar Grey” version offers a fresh aesthetic while maintaining the same excellent audio quality that has made it a favorite among music enthusiasts.

    Xiaomi Bluetooth Speaker Specifications

    The Xiaomi Bluetooth Speaker features a top-tier 5-unit acoustic system that provides robust sound suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments. It supports 360° omnidirectional audio, achieving a volume output of up to 93dB. The large amplitude low-frequency passive units ensure deep, resonant bass, making it perfect for users who enjoy rich music while on the move.

    Equipped with Xiaomi’s HyperOS Connect, the speaker integrates seamlessly with other Xiaomi devices. It includes a 4800mAh battery that allows for up to 17 hours of playback on a single charge, and it supports 22.5W fast charging through USB Type-C.

    Special Features

    This Bluetooth speaker is loaded with features that set it apart from its rivals. It has been professionally tuned by Harman AudioEFX and employs Xiaomi’s Nightingale Algorithm to deliver a balanced and clear audio experience. Furthermore, users can customize their listening profile via Xiaomi Audio ID.

    The speaker also boasts IP67 water and dust resistance, making it perfect for outdoor use. Its body is made from scratch-resistant fabric, and it has a rubberized base for added durability. A hydrophobic coating ensures functionality even in light rain, making it a trustworthy companion for outdoor activities.

    Additionally, the speaker supports dual-device pairing and can connect up to two speakers for stereo sound, with the capability to link up to eight speakers for a party setup. With Bluetooth 5.3, it guarantees a stable connection, and the LHDC 5.0 protocol ensures high-fidelity sound.

    In terms of design, the speaker features a 12-LED RGB strip that changes colors during playback. It includes four preset lighting modes, and users can customize the lighting through the Mi Home app.

    Pricing & Availability

    The Xiaomi Bluetooth Speaker in “Stellar Grey” is available for an introductory price of 449 yuan ($64), reduced from the original black version’s price of 499 yuan ($71). It can now be purchased on JD.com.

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  • Hifiman HE1000 Headphones: Magnetic Veil & Stealth Magnet Tech

    Hifiman HE1000 Headphones: Magnetic Veil & Stealth Magnet Tech

    The Hifiman HE1000 UNVEILED headphones represent an innovative blend of cutting-edge technology and user-friendly design, providing an exceptional audio experience. Equipped with Magnetic Planar Driver technology and an open-back structure, these headphones cater to audiophiles seeking an immersive sound journey.

    Key Features

    • Magnetic Planar Driver Unit with a Nanometer-Thin Diaphragm
    • Advanced Asymmetrical Magnetic Circuit to minimize distortion
    • Unique UNVEILED Design to lessen sound reflection
    • Variety of cable options including 3.5mm, 6.35mm, and balanced 4-pin XLR
    • Open Back Ear Cup Design for an expansive soundstage

    Magnetic Planar Driver Unit

    The Hifiman HE1000 UNVEILED headphones feature a Magnetic Planar Driver with a Nanometer-Thin Diaphragm. This technology guarantees a highly detailed audio experience, offering quick response times and a natural sound signature that music lovers will appreciate.

    Advanced Asymmetrical Magnetic Circuit

    The headphones utilize a distinctive asymmetrical magnetic circuit design that significantly reduces interference and distortion. This results in a clearer and more engaging listening experience, enhancing the overall sound quality.

    UNVEILED Design

    The innovative “UNVEILED” design of the Hifiman HE1000 minimizes sound reflection. This approach involves removing the back panel (referred to as the Magnetic Veil) during use, which reduces sound reflections. By eliminating the grill that can hinder the movement of the nanometer-thin diaphragm, the design allows for a completely open diaphragm. Consequently, listeners can enjoy a wider soundstage with clearer and more detailed audio, creating a more natural and immersive experience.

    Multi-cable Options

    To ensure versatility across various audio systems, the Hifiman HE1000 UNVEILED headphones come with detachable cables offering multiple connection types, including 3.5mm, 6.35mm, and a balanced 4-pin XLR. This flexibility allows for easy integration with different audio sources.

    Open Back Ear Cup Design

    The open-back ear cup design enhances the natural and airy soundstage, simulating the experience of attending a live concert. This design is particularly advantageous for those who appreciate spatial audio effects.

    What’s in the Box?

    • Hifiman HE1000 UNVEILED Headphones
    • 3.5mm single-ended earphone cable
    • 6.35mm single-ended headphone cable
    • Four-core XLR balanced headphone cable

    Price and Availability

    The Hifiman HE1000 UNVEILED headphones are available for $3399 and can be purchased from Geekwills. This exciting new offering brings high-end audio performance to a wider audience.

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