Category: Audio

July 9, 2025
IKEA Launches Blomprakt Speaker Lamp: Stylish Sound and Light
Key Takeaways
1. The Blomprakt speaker lamp continues IKEA’s journey in smart home products, following the Symfonisk Speaker lamp collaboration with Sonos.
2. It features an LED light source with an adjustable shade and a built-in speaker for streaming music, audiobooks, or podcasts via Bluetooth.
3. The lamp will be available in three colors: beige, black, and blue, but pricing details are not yet disclosed.
4. The anticipated launch date for the Blomprakt speaker lamp is October 2025, with global availability expected.
5. IKEA is expanding its smart home product range, having recently launched the Nattbad Bluetooth speaker and planning more innovations.
IKEA has unveiled its latest product, the Blomprakt speaker lamp. This new device marks a continuation of the journey that began with the Symfonisk Speaker lamp. The previous model was created through the collaboration between IKEA and Sonos, a partnership that has now officially concluded.
Features of the Blomprakt Speaker Lamp
The Blomprakt speaker lamp is designed to create a cozy ambiance. It includes an LED light source and a shade that can be angled, giving users the ability to direct the light where they want it. Moreover, this lamp comes equipped with a built-in speaker, enabling you to enjoy your favorite music, audiobooks, or podcasts. It is believed that Bluetooth support will let users stream their audio content wirelessly. Nonetheless, the complete details regarding the specifications of the IKEA Blomprakt speaker lamp remain undisclosed. As of now, it is uncertain if it will have Matter compatibility or support for Spotify Tap.
Color Options and Availability
The IKEA Blomprakt speaker lamp will come in three different colors: beige, black, and blue. The exact pricing for this exciting addition has not yet been revealed by the company. The product is anticipated to launch in markets around the world in October 2025. In addition, IKEA has recently rolled out the Nattbad Bluetooth speaker on a global scale and shared intentions to introduce more smart home gadgets in the near future.
Looking Ahead
In summary, IKEA’s new Blomprakt speaker lamp is set to blend lighting and sound in a unique way. As the company moves forward, it continues to expand its range of smart home offerings, much to the delight of tech-savvy consumers. Keep an eye out for more updates as we approach the release date!
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Tags: IKEA, Symfonisk
July 9, 2025
IKEA Nattbad Affordable Bluetooth Speaker Now Available Worldwide
Key Takeaways
1. IKEA launched the Nattbad Bluetooth speaker globally, following the end of its collaboration with Sonos.
2. The speaker combines home decor and sound, allowing Bluetooth pairing with devices and connecting multiple speakers for synchronized listening.
3. It features a Spotify Tap option for easy playlist creation and music continuation.
4. The Nattbad has a simple setup, works within a 10m range, and features a retro radio design available in three colors.
5. Priced at $49.99/£29.00/€39.99, IKEA plans to introduce more smart home gadgets, including the Blomprakt speaker lamp, by 2026.
IKEA has introduced a new Bluetooth speaker called the Nattbad, available globally. This launch follows just a few months after they announced the end of their collaboration with Sonos, which produced the Symfonisk series.
Perfect Sound and Design
The IKEA Nattbad Bluetooth speaker is labeled as “the ideal mix of home decor and sound.” You can easily pair your phone, laptop, or tablet with the speaker via Bluetooth to enjoy your favorite content. There’s a feature that allows you to connect multiple Nattbad speakers together, so you can listen to the same music, podcast, or audiobook in different rooms. Additionally, the Spotify Tap option lets you pick up where you left off or create a playlist based on what you’ve recently enjoyed.
Simple Setup and Style
Setting up this device is said to be a breeze, with the Bluetooth speaker working at a range of 10 m (~33 ft) without any disruptions. With a retro radio design, it has dimensions of 3.6 x 7.0 x 4.9 inches (~92 x 178 x 124 mm) and comes in three color options: black, pink, and yellow. You can purchase the IKEA Nattbad Bluetooth speaker for $49.99/£29.00/€39.99. Furthermore, IKEA has revealed plans for the new Blomprakt speaker lamp and is testing a broader selection of smart home gadgets for the year 2026.
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Tags: Bluetooth Speaker
July 9, 2025
KEF XIO Dolby Atmos Soundbar: 12 Speakers, 820W, Wireless Subwoofer
Key Takeaways
1. KEF has launched its first high-end soundbar, the XIO, priced at €2,299.
2. The soundbar features a 5.1.2-channel setup with 820 watts total output and supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Sony 360 Reality Audio.
3. It includes twelve drivers, with advanced bass performance using four rectangular drivers and a built-in sensor for audio adjustment based on placement.
4. Connectivity options include Toslink, HDMI eARC, Bluetooth 5.3, and Wi-Fi 6, along with support for Apple AirPlay and Google Cast.
5. The XIO soundbar is available in gray or black, and a compatible KW2 RX receiver for wireless subwoofer connection is offered for $199.
KEF has launched its first soundbar, aiming for the high-end market with a price tag of €2,299 for the XIO model. This cost could be warranted by its impressive specifications and features. The soundbar spans 47.6 inches and houses twelve drivers powered by dedicated Class-D amplifiers.
Impressive Audio Configuration
The XIO soundbar boasts a 5.1.2-channel setup, delivering a total output of 820 watts. It is capable of producing sound frequencies ranging from 37 Hz to 20 kHz and can achieve a maximum volume of 102 dB. For bass, it uses four rectangular drivers measuring 50 x 180 mm, with three drivers oriented forward and three directed upward. The soundbar can be placed flat on a surface or mounted on a wall; a built-in sensor detects its position and adjusts the audio output accordingly. The soundbar supports key spatial audio formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Sony 360 Reality Audio.
Connectivity and Streaming Options
Connecting the KEF XIO to TVs can be done through Toslink or HDMI eARC. Additionally, music streaming is made easy with Bluetooth 5.3 or Wi-Fi 6, and it supports both Apple AirPlay and Google Cast. By using the KEF Connect smartphone app, users can stream music from services like Tidal, Spotify, Amazon Music, Qobuz, and Deezer directly.
Pricing and Additional Accessories
The KEF XIO soundbar is priced at $2,499 in the manufacturer’s online store, available in gray or black. For those interested in enhancing their audio experience, the KW2 RX receiver, which allows for a wireless connection to any compatible subwoofer, is available for $199.
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Tags: Dolby Atmos
July 9, 2025
Beyerdynamic Aventho 100 Headphones: aptX Lossless & 60-Hour Battery
Key Takeaways
1. Enhanced Audio Quality: The updated headphones support Qualcomm aptX Lossless and aptX Adaptive for improved wireless music streaming.
2. Long Battery Life: They offer up to 60 hours of battery life, which reduces to 40 hours with active noise cancellation (ANC) on; 15 minutes of charging provides 15 hours of use.
3. Premium Materials: Made from a mix of aluminum and fabric, the headphones weigh only 7.8 ounces for comfort during extended use and are foldable for easy transport.
4. Pricing and Availability: The Aventho 100 headphones are priced at €199 and are available on Amazon and the Beyerdynamic online store, but not on the US website.
5. Color Options and Accessories: Customers can choose from brown, beige, or black, and each purchase includes a USB charging cable, a 3.5mm AUX cable, and a soft pouch.
The Beyerdynamic Aventho wireless headphones, which first came out in 2017, are getting a makeover. The German brand is updating these sleek headphones with enhanced specifications and features, while the overall design stays pretty much the same. The 45mm dynamic drivers from the older model are still being used.
Enhanced Audio Experience
The updated Bluetooth chipset now supports Qualcomm aptX Lossless and aptX Adaptive, alongside AAC and SBC. This means you can enjoy lossless music streaming without wires. Additionally, the battery life has seen a significant bump, lasting up to 60 hours. However, when the active noise cancellation (ANC) feature is turned on, it drops to a commendable 40 hours. Charging is done via USB-C, and just 15 minutes of charging gives you enough juice for 15 hours of listening.
Premium Build and Comfort
The headphones are crafted from a mix of aluminum and fabric, which is said to lend them a high-quality feel. Weighing only 7.8 ounces, they should be comfortable for extended wear. They can also be folded for easier transport, though Beyerdynamic only provides a pouch with the Aventho 100 instead of a hard case. Additionally, there’s an option for connecting the headphones through an AUX cable.
Pricing and Availability
The new Aventho 100 headphones are currently priced at €199 and can be found either on Amazon or at the official Beyerdynamic online store. As of now, they are not available on Beyerdynamic’s US website. Customers can choose from three colors: brown, beige, or black. Each purchase comes with a USB charging cable, a 3.5mm AUX cable, and the previously mentioned pouch.
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Tags: Wireless Headphones
July 8, 2025
OnePlus Buds 4 Launch: Affordable Hi-Res Wireless Earbuds
Key Takeaways
1. OnePlus launched the new 43 mm Watch 3, a compact version of its usual 46 mm model.
2. The Buds 4 wireless earbuds are priced at $99.99 with a promo code, down from $129.99.
3. Buds 4 feature dual drivers (11 mm woofer and 6 mm tweeter) for high-quality sound and include LHDC 5.0 support for lossless audio.
4. Customization options include 3D Audio, low latency Game Mode, and the “Golden Sound” feature for personalized audio profiles.
5. The battery life is up to 11 hours with ANC off, 9 hours with ANC on, and a total of 45 hours with the charging case.
OnePlus has launched its new 43 mm Watch 3, which is a more compact version compared to the usual 46 mm model. In addition to this smartwatch, the brand has also introduced budget-friendly wireless earbuds called Buds 4. These earbuds typically retail for $129.99, but for a limited period, they are available for just $99.99 using the promo code BUDS4.
Features of the Buds 4
A standout feature of the Buds 4 is its dual driver configuration. OnePlus states that these economical earbuds come with an 11 mm woofer and a 6 mm tweeter. Each driver is equipped with its own DAC, which enables them to deliver what OnePlus describes as “flagship-level” sound quality.
The company emphasizes that the OnePlus Buds 4 provide “class-leading” audio performance, thanks to the inclusion of LHDC 5.0 support. This is a high-definition audio codec developed by Savitech, and it enables lossless transmission along with a 24-bit/192 kHz sampling rate.
Audio Performance and Customization
In addition, the Buds 4 also feature 3D Audio, and OnePlus claims that these wireless earbuds achieve a low latency of 47 ms when the Game Mode is activated. Users can also personalize their sound experience through a feature known as “Golden Sound,” which analyzes the shape of the user’s ear canal to create a tailored audio profile.
Another key feature is the noise cancellation mode, which OnePlus asserts can analyze the surrounding environment up to 800 times per second for the best performance. The depth of noise reduction can reach up to 55 dB, and the earbuds are equipped with a three-microphone AI system for handling phone calls.
Battery Life Details
When it comes to battery life, the OnePlus Buds 4 are rated for up to 11 hours of use with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) off and the volume set at 50%. With ANC activated, users can enjoy up to 9 hours of playback. Overall, the total battery life with the charging case is 45 hours with ANC and 24 hours without it.
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Tags: OnePlus Buds 4, OnePlus Watch 3, wireless earbuds
July 7, 2025
Skullcandy Hesh 540 ANC Headphones: 3D Sound & 65-Hour Battery
Key Takeaways
1. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): The Hesh 540 ANC features adjustable ANC with four microphones to block background noise, plus a Stay Aware mode for ambient sound.
2. Long Battery Life: Offers up to 65 hours of playback without ANC and 50 hours with ANC on; a quick 10-minute charge provides an additional 4 hours.
3. Immersive Sound Experience: Equipped with THX Spatial Audio for a 3D audio experience and customizable sound options via Personal Sound by Mimi.
4. Versatile Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth 5.3 with Google Fast Pair, connects to multiple devices, and includes a 3.5 mm wired option.
5. User-Friendly Features: Includes wear detection for automatic playback control, voice assistant access, and a foldable design for easy storage.
Skullcandy has introduced a brand new set of headphones, the Hesh 540 ANC, which can be ordered directly from the company at a price of $149.99 or €129.99. These headphones are available in two stylish colors: True Black and Bone.
Features Overview
As indicated by its name, the Skullcandy Hesh 540 ANC is equipped with active noise cancellation (ANC). This technology utilizes four microphones to effectively block out background noise, plus users can adjust the level of noise cancellation. For those who wish to stay aware of their surroundings, the Stay Aware mode allows outside sounds to come through.
Battery Life Insights
Like most headphones that feature ANC, turning it on can eat into battery life. Skullcandy claims that the Hesh 540 ANC can last up to 65 hours without ANC activated and around 50 hours when it is on. A quick 10-minute charge provides an extra 4 hours of listening time. Additionally, these headphones come with a handy wear detection feature that automatically starts and pauses playback when they are put on or taken off.
Sound Quality and Connectivity
A standout feature of the Hesh 540 ANC is its immersive sound experience, bolstered by THX Spatial Audio support. This technology delivers a 3D audio experience for music, films, and more. Users can also personalize their sound through Personal Sound by Mimi and various EQ presets.
Besides offering Bluetooth 5.3 compatibility with Google Fast Pair and the ability to connect to multiple devices at once, the Hesh 540 ANC provides an option for a wired connection using a 3.5 mm jack. Other useful features include voice assistant access with the push of a button and a foldable design for easy storage.
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Tags: Active Noise Cancellation, THX Spatial Audio
July 6, 2025
DJI Mic 3 Launches with Compact Design Inspired by DJI Mic Mini
Key Takeaways
1. DJI’s Mic 3 is set to launch on July 29 alongside the Osmo 360.
2. Product images reveal that the Mic 3 resembles the Mic Mini more than the Mic 2.
3. The Mic 3 is compact at 14 x 28 x 29 mm and weighs 11.7 g, making it smaller and lighter than the Mic 2.
4. Specific specifications for the Mic 3 are not yet disclosed, but updates to the receiver and charging case are expected.
5. Complete specifications and pricing for the Mic 3 will be revealed before its release date.
The date of DJI’s upcoming microphone hardware release has been known for a while now. As mentioned earlier, the Mic 3 is expected to launch alongside the Osmo 360 in a double debut. While we’ve seen the design of DJI’s first 360-degree action camera, the actual appearance of the Mic 3 remained a mystery.
Product Images Revealed
Previously, the Mic 3 was only spotted at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), providing limited hints about its features. However, Jasper Ellens has now come to the rescue by sharing multiple product images that we’ve included below. Interestingly, the Mic 3 resembles the newer Mic Mini more closely than the current Mic 2, which is priced at $164 on Amazon.
Size and Weight Comparison
The Mic 3 is reportedly compact, measuring 14 x 28 x 29 mm and weighing 11.7 g. In contrast, the Mic 2 is larger, measuring 22 x 31 x 46 mm and weighing 28 g. To put it in perspective, the Mic 3 is only slightly bigger than the Mic Mini, which has dimensions of 16 x 26 x 27 mm and weighs 10 g.
Awaiting Specifications
At this moment, specific details about the Mic 3’s specifications are still under wraps. Nonetheless, Ellens suggests that DJI has modernized its current receiver and charging case to meet “new standards.” It is likely that complete specifications and pricing will be available before the Mic 3’s release on July 29.
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Tags: DJI Mic 3, Osmo 360
July 6, 2025
Bowers & Wilkins Launches Pi6 and Pi8 Wireless Earbuds with Better Fit
Key Takeaways
1. Bowers & Wilkins has launched the Pi6 and Pi8 true wireless earbuds with active noise cancellation and an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance.
2. The company invested three years in research and developed over a hundred prototypes to improve earbud comfort and ANC performance, offering four ear tip sizes for a better fit.
3. The Pi6 features Qualcomm aptX Adaptive codec for high-quality audio, 12 mm bio-cellulose drivers, and offers 8 hours of playback with ANC, plus 16 hours from the charging case.
4. The Pi8 uses Qualcomm aptX Lossless codec for superior audio quality, 12 mm carbon cone drivers, and provides 6.5 hours of playback with ANC, along with an additional 13.5 hours from the charging case.
5. The Pi6 is priced at $249 and comes in four colors, while the Pi8 is priced at $399 and is available in four different shades.
Bowers & Wilkins has introduced the Pi6 and Pi8 true wireless earbuds featuring active noise cancellation and an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance.
Extensive Research for Optimal Fit
The company spent three years studying earbud fit, creating over a hundred prototypes to enhance the comfort of the Pi6 and Pi8. They claim that this extensive effort, along with triple microphones in each earbud, has significantly improved the ANC performance compared to their earlier models. Each pair includes four different ear tip sizes to ensure users can achieve a comfortable fit.
Advanced Audio Capabilities
The Pi6 is compatible with the Qualcomm aptX Adaptive audio codec, allowing for 24-bit 96 kHz audio at up to 420 kbps. These earbuds feature 12 mm bio-cellulose drivers and come with a 2-band equalization for better sound output. When using ANC, the Pi6 provides a playback time of eight hours, plus an extra 16 hours available from its charging case, as stated by B&W.
The Pi8, on the other hand, utilizes the Qualcomm aptX Lossless codec, which supports 16-bit 44.1 kHz and 24-bit 96 kHz audio at approximately 1 Mbps. Its charging case offers the ability to transmit music from wired USB-C and 3.5 mm audio sources to the Pi8 earbuds through the aptX Adaptive codec. The Pi8 also has 12 mm carbon cone drivers and supports 5-band equalization. With ANC activated, the Pi8 lasts for 6.5 hours, and users can expect an additional 13.5 hours from the charging case, according to B&W.
Pricing and Availability
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 is priced at $249 (check it out on Amazon) and is offered in colors like cloud grey, forest green, glacier blue, and storm grey. The Pi8 is priced at $399 (also available here on Amazon) and comes in shades of anthracite black, dove white, jade green, and midnight blue.
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Tags: Bowers & Wilkins
July 5, 2025
Xiaomi Launches Affordable Smart Glasses with 11-Day Battery Life
Key Takeaways
1. Affordable Pricing: Xiaomi’s Smart Audio Glasses are priced at $86.54 on AliExpress, making them a reasonable option compared to competitors.
2. Sound Quality: Equipped with an SLS0820 ultrasonic speaker and an echo-cancelling algorithm, the glasses offer optimized sound quality with deep bass and clear treble.
3. Long Battery Life: They boast an impressive battery performance, lasting up to 11 days in standby mode and providing around 10 hours of music playback.
4. Comfortable Design: Weighing only 40 grams, the glasses feature a comfortable frame with adjustable nose pads and a temple curve for all-day wearability.
5. Durability and Convenience: The Smart Audio Glasses have an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance and include touch controls for easy operation.
Xiaomi has launched a new pair of smart glasses for the worldwide market. Known as the Smart Audio Glasses, these are currently listed on AliExpress priced at $86.54. Although this is a reasonable price, the features offered are not as comprehensive as some competing products available.
Features Overview
Specifically, the product, as its name suggests, is essentially a set of glasses that functions similarly to Bluetooth earbuds. Due to their design, these smart glasses can serve as a substitute for open-ear headphones. Xiaomi emphasizes that there are protections against sound leakage, ensuring added privacy when used in public.
Sound Quality Insights
The smart glasses are equipped with an SLS0820 ultrasonic speaker and a sound cavity structure algorithm. This setup enables the glasses to provide “optimized sound quality,” delivering “rich, deep bass” as well as “vibrant, clear treble.” An echo-cancelling algorithm is also included, which helps reduce distortion and guarantees a clear audio experience.
Battery Performance
A standout feature of the Xiaomi Smart Audio Glasses is their battery longevity. The company states that in standby mode, they can last up to 11 days, and they reportedly provide around 10 hours of playback time while listening to music. For recharging the built-in battery, these glasses use a magnetic pogo pin charger, which is similar to those found with most smartwatches.
Design and Comfort
In terms of design, Xiaomi points out that the frame weighs just 40 grams. With a temple curve designed for comfort and adjustable nose pads, these glasses are said to offer all-day wearability. Other notable features include a detachable hinge design for frame interchangeability, an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance, and convenient touch controls.
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Tags: Xiaomi
July 3, 2025
Steinberg SpectraLayers 12: Separate Tracks and Vocals Easily
Key Takeaways
1. AI-Powered Audio Editing: SpectraLayers 12 uses AI to help identify and isolate sounds through a spectrogram representation of audio tracks.
2. Instrument Recognition: The tool can recognize common instruments and can be trained to identify new ones for automatic track separation.
3. Manual Sound Selection: Users can manually select sounds and frequencies for precise editing, including removing unwanted noise.
4. Vocal Enhancement: Features like the Voice Enhance module use AI to improve low-quality vocal recordings and restore lost details.
5. Pricing Options: SpectraLayers 12 Pro is priced at $349.99, while the basic version, SpectraLayers 12 Elements, is available for $89.99.
Steinberg has introduced SpectraLayers 12, a new audio editing tool that can break down music into separate instruments and vocals, as the company reports. These tracks can be repurposed for new mixes, modified to fix audio problems, and improved to enhance low-quality vocal recordings.
AI-Powered Editing
SpectraLayers utilizes artificial intelligence to assist editors in pinpointing desirable or problematic sounds through a spectrograph representation of audio tracks. This spectrogram shows time on the horizontal axis, frequency on the vertical axis, and amplitude represented by various colors.
Enhanced Instrument Recognition
The AI is capable of recognizing typical instruments, including guitar, drums, piano, and saxophone, and can be trained to understand new instrument samples for automatic track separation. It also supports manual selection by helping to identify both the main frequency of an instrument and its harmonic frequencies.
This functionality allows users to swiftly locate sounds, like the deep hum of an air conditioning unit or the crash of a cymbal, and eliminate them from their recordings. Isolated sounds and vocals can be reused, adjusted, or processed to get rid of unwanted background noise. Features like the Voice Enhance module leverage AI to restore lost details in subpar vocal recordings, potentially aiding in the revival of old films and analog recordings or salvaging a poor live performance.
Pricing and Availability
The Steinberg SpectraLayers 12 Pro, which includes all the new features, has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $349.99. In contrast, SpectraLayers 12 Elements, a more basic version with significantly fewer features, is priced at $89.99. Both versions can be purchased through the company’s website and authorized resellers.
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