Category: Audio

  • Vivo TWS Air3 Pro Launch: Bluetooth 6.0, ANC, Endurance Edition

    Vivo TWS Air3 Pro Launch: Bluetooth 6.0, ANC, Endurance Edition

    Key Takeaways

    1. Vivo’s new wireless earbuds feature the latest Bluetooth 6.0 technology, an upgrade from Bluetooth 5.3 in previous models.
    2. The standard Air3 earbuds offer stereo sound and spatial audio, while the Air3 Pro models include an Adaptive Audio function for enhanced listening.
    3. The earbuds are lightweight, with the Air3 Pro at 3.8g each and the standard Air3 at 3.6g, while battery life ranges from 45 hours for standard to 52 hours for the Long Life Edition.
    4. Pricing varies: the Long Life Edition is 229 yuan (~$32), Air3 Pros are 199 yuan (~$28), and standard Air3s are 99 yuan (~$14).
    5. The standard Air3s come in more color options like Blueberry Blue and Peach Pink, while the Pro versions are available in classic colors like Galaxy Black and Vitality White.


    Vivo has released its new wireless earbuds, which aren’t the on-ear types that are becoming more popular. However, they come equipped with the latest Bluetooth 6.0 technology, an upgrade from the 5.3 version seen in their TWS 3e models available on Amazon.de. The standard Air3 versions were launched together with the Pro models.

    Sound Quality

    The standard Air3 earbuds offer Vivo’s latest stereo sound and spatial audio features, though the Air3 Pro models include an added Adaptive Audio function that enhances the listening experience.

    Weight and Battery Life

    The entire series is recognized for being quite lightweight TWS accessories, with the Pro versions weighing in at 3.8 grams (g) each, while the regular Air3 earbuds are slightly lighter at 3.6g. While the standard buds have the shortest battery life, they still provide up to 45 hours on a single charge. The Air3 Pros offer a slightly longer life of 47 hours, and the Long Life or ‘Endurance’ Edition boasts an impressive 52 hours.

    Pricing and Color Options

    The most costly option among the new accessories is the Long Life Edition, priced at 229 yuan (~$32). The Air3 Pros are available for 199 yuan (~$28), and the TWS Air3s are the most affordable at just 99 yuan (~$14). Interestingly, the standard Air3s come in a wider variety of colors, including Blueberry Blue, Peach Pink, and Cloud White, while the Pro versions stick to classic colors like Galaxy Black and Vitality White.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • KRK Introduces Kreate Bluetooth Studio Monitors for Music Lovers

    KRK Introduces Kreate Bluetooth Studio Monitors for Music Lovers

    Key Takeaways

    1. KRK has launched the Kreate studio monitor series for beginner creators and music producers, with prices ranging from $169 to $299.
    2. The Kreate series includes three models: Kreate 3, Kreate 5, and Kreate 8, all available on Amazon.
    3. These monitors are powered speakers with both wired and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity options.
    4. The Kreate monitors feature a textile dome tweeter and glass-fiber composite cone woofer, with adjustable sound reproduction controls.
    5. KRK was founded in 1986 and is known for creating studio monitors that provide accurate sound reproduction for music and vocals.


    KRK has introduced the Kreate studio monitor series aimed at beginner creators and music producers. This budget-friendly line features the Kreate 3 priced at $169, the Kreate 5 at $259, and the Kreate 8 at $299, all of which are accessible on Amazon.

    A Brief History of KRK

    Founded in 1986 by film sound mixer Keith R. Klawitter, the KRK brand specializes in studio monitors. These speakers are crafted to deliver a true-to-source reproduction of recorded music and vocals, maintaining a fairly flat frequency response. This allows sound engineers to identify problems and produce mixes that genuinely reflect their artistic vision.

    Features of Kreate Monitors

    All models in the Kreate series are powered speakers and can connect to audio sources through both wired methods and Bluetooth 5.3 wireless technology. The Kreate 3 includes analog inputs for balanced 1/4″ TRS, RCA, and 1/8” auxiliary connections. Meanwhile, the Kreate 5 and Kreate 8 replace the 1/8″ jack with a balanced XLR input.

    These monitors utilize a textile dome tweeter alongside a glass-fiber composite cone woofer. Users have the ability to fine-tune the sound reproduction of low and high frequencies via dials located at the back of each speaker.

    Purchase Information

    If you’re interested, you can buy the KRK Kreate studio monitors directly from Amazon.

    Source:
    Link


  • EarFun Clip: Bluetooth 6.0 Open-Ear Wireless Buds Under $90

    EarFun Clip: Bluetooth 6.0 Open-Ear Wireless Buds Under $90

    Key Takeaways

    1. Comfort and Design Improvements: The EarFun Clip addresses discomfort from the “C-bridge” structure with a skin-friendly silicone coating on the connecting wire.

    2. Sweat Resistance: They have an IP55 rating, making them suitable for workouts and resistant to sweat.

    3. Hi-Res Audio Technology: Despite their small size, the earbuds include advanced technology like 10.5mm drivers and 3D Surround Sound for enhanced audio quality.

    4. Long Battery Life and Connectivity: The earbuds offer up to 40 hours of battery life with USB-C charging, Bluetooth 6.0, and support for dual device connectivity.

    5. Launch Discount: The EarFun Clips are available with a $20 discount and an additional 20% off coupon for a limited time.


    The EarFun Clip aims to address a major concern with their popular open earbud design, which is the potential discomfort the “C-bridge” structure may cause to the outer ear over extended use.

    Sweat Resistance and Comfort Features

    These new earbuds come with an official IP55 rating, making them resistant to sweat from workouts. They also feature a “skin-friendly” liquid silicone coating on the titanium memory wire that connects the balancing capsule to the part that sits on the ear.

    Compact Yet Powerful Design

    Even with their small size, the Clips incorporate all the technology required to achieve Hi-Res Audio certification. This includes 10.5mm “carbon-fiber diaphragm” drivers and their own in-house 3D Surround Sound and BassSurge technology.

    Calls made using these earbuds promise to be clear, deep, and rich due to the open-ear design, which includes some environmental noise-cancelling (ENC) features, though they only utilize 2 integrated microphones.

    Impressive Battery Life and Connectivity

    The EarFun Clips come in a standard-sized TWS earbud case that can extend battery life up to 40 hours per charge, with charging done via USB-C.

    In terms of connectivity, they surpass most competitors by offering Bluetooth 6.0, support for the LDAC codec, Dual Device Connectivity, and Google Fast Pair.

    However, they do lack some premium features like aptX Lossless and AuraCast, which are available in the more expensive Air Pro 4 models. This is likely due to EarFun pricing the Clips at a recommended $89.99 on Amazon.

    Source:
    Link

  • JBL Launches New Endurance Zone Wireless Headphones

    JBL Launches New Endurance Zone Wireless Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. The JBL Endurance Zone headphones are wireless, open-ear, and designed for comfort during movement.
    2. The open design allows users to hear surrounding sounds, enhancing safety while using them outdoors.
    3. They feature two microphones to reduce background noise during calls.
    4. The headphones have an IP68 certification for durability, sweat resistance, and a unique feature called PulseDry to expel moisture.
    5. Battery life is up to 8 hours, extendable to 24 hours with the charging case, and a quick ten-minute charge provides 3 hours of listening time.


    JBL has introduced a fresh pair of headphones to their collection. The Endurance Zone are wireless, open-ear headphones, which means they don’t go deep into the ear canal or depend on pressure for a snug fit. Instead, they sit on or around the ear. This design aims to ensure a secure fit even during movement, and from what we’ve found, these types of headphones can also feel comfier than typical in-ear models, especially for long durations. The open design allows users to hear surrounding sounds clearly, which can be either a disturbance or a useful feature. For instance, the JBL Endurance Zone lets users detect a bicycle bell while on a shared bike and pedestrian path. Additionally, both earbuds come with two microphones to lessen background noise for the person on the call.

    Durability and Battery Life

    The JBL headphones boast an IP68 certification and are sweat-resistant, although sweat resistance isn’t officially part of the IP68 standard. The drivers are rumored to be able to expel moisture using a unique feature called PulseDry, which employs specific vibrations. The Endurance Zone earbuds offer a battery life of up to eight hours, which can be extended to 24 hours when using the included charging case. A quick ten-minute charge is claimed to provide enough juice for three hours of listening time. The JBL Endurance Zone is expected to be available in July for £119.

    Source:
    Link


  • Skullcandy Crusher PLYR 720 Gaming Headset: Bass & Open-Back Design

    Skullcandy Crusher PLYR 720 Gaming Headset: Bass & Open-Back Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Crusher PLYR 720 features an open-back design and enhanced sound technology, providing an immersive gaming experience with booming bass and spatial audio.
    2. Designed for comfort, the headset includes memory foam ear cushions, a suspension headband, and offers up to 48 hours of battery life in 2.4 GHz mode.
    3. Customization options are available through the Skull-HQ app, allowing users to adjust EQ settings and manage audio preferences.
    4. The headset comes in two variants: one for Xbox and another for multiple platforms, both offering wired connectivity.
    5. Priced at $260, the Crusher PLYR 720 targets the high-end gaming headset market, featuring a removable boom mic with Clear Voice Smart Mic support.


    Skullcandy is broadening its range of gaming headsets with an update to the Crusher PLYR series. The Crusher PLYR 720 introduces exciting features and significant improvements compared to the previous versions released in 2022. Notably, this new headset boasts an open-back design and the signature booming bass that the Crusher series is famous for. There are two variants of the Crusher PLYR 720: one tailored for Xbox and another that supports multiple platforms.

    Immersive Gaming Experience

    For a captivating gaming experience, the Crusher PLYR 720 headset is equipped with Enhanced Sound Perception (ESP) and THX Spatial audio that includes head tracking. Thanks to its multi-sensor bass technology, Skullcandy claims that explosions in games feel more intense, engine sounds resonate deeper, and every hit delivers a punch that can be felt throughout the body. The open-back design contributes to a more natural and expansive sound stage. The headset features 40mm drivers that power the Skullcandy Crusher PLYR 720.

    Comfort for Long Sessions

    The headset is designed with ultra-soft memory foam, heat-absorbing ear cushions, and a suspension headband to ensure comfort during extended gaming sessions. The Crusher PLYR 720 boasts an impressive battery life, rated at 48 hours when using 2.4 GHz mode and 38 hours while simultaneously connected via Bluetooth. It supports dual wireless audio streaming and is compatible with various platforms such as PC, mobile devices, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox (specifically the Xbox model).

    Customization and Features

    With the Skull-HQ app, users can customize the EQ settings, adjust Sidetone, manage output and incoming chat audio, among other options. The removable boom mic is uni-directional and features Clear Voice Smart Mic support, along with an LED indicator to display the mic’s status. Weighing in at 354.2 grams, the headset is considered somewhat heavy.

    The Crusher PLYR 720 carries a price tag of $260, placing it in the high-end market segment for gaming headsets. It’s available for purchase on Amazon and the Skullcandy website. There are two versions: one that supports multiple platforms and another specifically designed for Xbox with wireless capabilities. Both models can connect via a wired connection to all compatible devices, but the multi-platform version does not support Xbox consoles through the 2.4 GHz connection.

    Source:
    Link

  • Soundcore Rave 3S Speaker with AI Vocal Removal Launches Globally

    Soundcore Rave 3S Speaker with AI Vocal Removal Launches Globally

    Key Takeaways

    1. The soundcore Rave 3S AI Karaoke Party Speaker has a powerful output of up to 200W and can reach noise levels of up to 108 dB, suitable for large spaces.
    2. It features AI karaoke technology that removes vocals from tracks with over 95% accuracy and includes two wireless microphones.
    3. Users can customize their karaoke experience with four vocal modes and five reverb levels, along with dynamic HexaGlow lighting effects.
    4. The speaker is portable, offers up to 12 hours of battery life, and is rated IPX4 for splash resistance, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
    5. The price is £329.99/€349.99, with a discount available when purchasing two units, and it’s also available for $299.99 for Prime members on Amazon US.


    The soundcore Rave 3S AI Karaoke Party Speaker has recently hit the shelves in Europe, following its earlier launch in the US this year. It’s crafted for enjoyment both indoors in your living room or outside in your garden.

    Speaker Features

    The Rave 3S, part of the soundcore Anker brand, boasts a powerful output of up to 200W and can reach noise levels of up to 108 dB. It includes three 2.5-inch full-range drivers along with a 6.5-inch subwoofer, which is claimed to cover a space of around 200 m² (approximately 2,153 ft²). The company mentions that the BassUp technology enhances the bass, features a Spatial Mode, and allows for app-based controls.

    Karaoke and Lighting Effects

    With its AI karaoke feature, the speaker can smartly strip away the vocals from the track you select. Soundcore claims this achieves over 95% accuracy, and the package includes two wireless microphones. Users can pick from four different vocal modes and five reverb levels. Additionally, the HexaGlow lighting effects create a lively party vibe with eight dynamic preset modes that can sync with your tunes. This portable speaker reportedly lasts for up to 12 hours on a single charge. It also has a built-in handle for easier transport and is rated IPX4 for splash resistance.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can purchase the soundcore Rave 3S AI Karaoke Party Speaker for £329.99/€349.99. If you buy two units, you can save £100/€100, bringing the total down to £559.98/€599.98. At Amazon US, Prime members currently have the option to snag it for $299.99.

    Source:
    Link

  • Nothing Headphone (1) Specs Leak: Input, Battery, and Charging

    Nothing Headphone (1) Specs Leak: Input, Battery, and Charging

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nothing’s Headphone (1) has received clearance for sale from Taiwan’s telecommunications regulator, NCC.
    2. The headphones feature a unique transparent square earcup design and include Bluetooth capability.
    3. They have an audio jack and a charging port on the right earcup, along with a potential hardware switch for audio output or ANC feature.
    4. The headphones are tested with the model number B170 and have been evaluated at TDRA and SGS Fimko facilities.
    5. Headphone (1) is expected to launch on July 1, 2025, with a battery capacity of 520mAh and a charging rate of 5W.


    Nothing’s Headphone (1) has received clearance for sale from Taiwan’s telecommunications regulator, as per a recent leak.

    Product Overview

    The NCC has allegedly taken pictures of the headphones, showcasing their unique transparent square earcup design in at least one color (white). It has been confirmed that the headphones will come with Bluetooth capability. The leaked images also show an audio jack and a charging port situated on the right earcup.

    Features and Functionality

    These ports are located adjacent to a hardware switch, which could potentially be used to toggle the audio output from the AUX cable that is said to be included in the Headphone (1) package, along with a USB cable. However, it’s also possible that this toggle might serve to activate or deactivate an ANC feature.

    Additional leaks suggest that the new over-ear headphones have also been tested at TDRA and SGS Fimko facilities, further supporting the claim that their model number is B170.

    Battery and Launch Details

    Significantly, it has been hinted that the Headphone (1) comes with a 520mAh battery capacity, which charges at a typical 5W rate.

    The first flagship in the Headphone series is expected to launch on July 1, 2025, possibly as a companion to the upcoming Phone (3).

    Source:
    Link


  • Tronsmart Fiitune X30: New Hi-Res 2.2.1 Channel Portable Speaker

    Tronsmart Fiitune X30: New Hi-Res 2.2.1 Channel Portable Speaker

    Key Takeaways

    1. Design and Portability: The Tronsmart Fiitune X30 features a stylish and clean design with an integrated handle for easy portability.

    2. Immersive Sound Setup: It offers a 2.2.1 channel sound system with an upward-firing driver, dual mid-range drivers, dual tweeters, and a racetrack subwoofer, providing up to 80W of output.

    3. Customizable Audio: The speaker has Hi-Res certification and an application-based equalizer, allowing users to adjust sound settings to their liking.

    4. Wireless Connectivity: It supports True Wireless Stereo (TWS) pairing for connecting two units wirelessly and includes built-in lights and a 3.5 mm AUX input.

    5. Battery and Waterproofing: The integrated battery lasts up to 14 hours, and the speaker has an IPX6 rating for waterproofing.


    The Tronsmart Fiitune X30 Home Speaker has now been launched worldwide. This smart speaker is made for home use and comes with a handy integrated handle for portability. The company has characterized it as stylish, boasting a simple and clean design.

    Immersive Sound Experience

    Tronsmart’s Fiitune X30 offers a 2.2.1 channel sound setup. It features an upward-firing driver that reflects sound off the ceiling, which enhances the audio’s richness. Additionally, the speaker includes dual mid-range drivers, dual tweeters, and a racetrack subwoofer, delivering a total output of up to 80W. The DSP algorithm is claimed to provide a “more immersive depth,” and it supports the LDAC codec.

    Customizable Features

    The X30 holds a Hi-Res certification and comes with an application-based equalizer, allowing users to modify the sound to their preference. Moreover, you can wirelessly connect two units using Bluetooth with True Wireless Stereo (TWS) pairing. Furthermore, the speaker includes built-in lights and a 3.5 mm AUX input. Its integrated battery is claimed to last for up to 14 hours of playback, and it is rated IPX6 for waterproofing.

    You can now purchase the Tronsmart Fiitune X30 Home Speaker for $179.99 on the brand’s official online store. It’s also available through various third-party retailers; in Germany, it costs €189 at Otto, while in the US and UK, it is priced at $222.30/£170.26.

    Source:
    Link


  • Sony WF-1000XM6 Leak Revealed After WH-1000XM6 Launch

    Sony WF-1000XM6 Leak Revealed After WH-1000XM6 Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony may release a new version of its WF-1000X earbuds, the WF-1000XM6, this year.
    2. The model number YY2985 has been referenced in Sony’s Sound Connect app and found in a shipping document.
    3. The WF-1000XM6 is expected to be available in multiple colors, not just black.
    4. The specific design changes from the WF-1000XM5 are currently unknown.
    5. The release date for the WF-1000XM6 is uncertain, but it may be introduced in late fall or early winter 2025, as it appears to still be in the testing phase.


    A new version of Sony’s WF-1000X earbuds might be coming this year. At first, it was thought that Sony would launch the WF-1000XM6 along with the WH-1000XM6 at the same time (currently priced at $448 on Amazon). Although that hasn’t happened yet, Sony has been seen adding references to the WF-1000XM6 in its Sound Connect app, which includes the model number YY2985.

    Shipping Manifest Discovery

    Recently, The Walkman Blog found the same model number in a shipping document. These earbuds are labeled as ‘Bluetooth headphones without [a] frame’, suggesting that Sony plans to offer the WF-1000XM6 in multiple colors beyond just the black option mentioned earlier. The specific design updates compared to the current WF-1000XM5 are not known at this point.

    Release Timeline Uncertain

    It is still not certain when Sony will formally replace the WF-1000XM5 with the WF-1000XM6. However, the ‘description of goods’ indicates that Sony may still be in the testing phase for these high-quality wireless earbuds instead of preparing for their launch. For comparison, similar shipping documents for the WH-1000XM6 appeared several months before Sony started selling the latest over-ear headphones. Therefore, we believe the WF-1000XM6 might be introduced in late fall or early winter 2025.

    Source:
    Link


  • JLab Launches Waterproof Party Speaker with RGB and 100W Sound

    JLab Launches Waterproof Party Speaker with RGB and 100W Sound

    Key Takeaways

    1. JLab has launched a new range of four Bluetooth Party Speakers with RGB lighting and waterproof design.
    2. The Epic Party Speaker delivers 100W sound, 16+ hours of battery life, and can connect with up to 100 other JLab speakers using LabSync technology.
    3. The JBuds Party Speaker offers a 30W output, over 12 hours of playtime, and features a portable design with a built-in loop handle.
    4. The Go Party Speaker provides 16 hours of playback, compact design, and customization options through the JLab App, including speakerphone capabilities.
    5. Prices for the Party Speaker series range from $19.99 for the Pop Party to $149.99 for the Epic Party Speaker.


    JLab has launched a new range of Party Speakers, made up of four Bluetooth speakers that cater to various events. Each model comes with RGB lighting, LabSync technology for pairing multiple speakers, and is designed to be waterproof.

    Epic Party Speaker

    The Epic Party Speaker offers an impressive 100W of sound in all directions, powered by four 2.5-inch full-range drivers and a 5.25-inch passive woofer. It boasts over 16 hours of battery life (14+ hours with RGB lighting) and has an IPX6 waterproof rating. Perfect for big parties, it can connect with as many as 100 other JLab speakers via LabSync.

    JBuds Party Speaker

    The JBuds Party Speaker strikes a balance between sound quality and portability. It features dual 2.5-inch full-range drivers along with two 2-inch passive woofers, giving it a 30W output with a frequency range from 60 Hz to 20 kHz. You’ll get over 12 hours of playtime (10+ hours with RGB) and enjoy its IPX6 waterproof rating. The built-in loop handle and JLab Media Knob make it easy to carry and control.

    Go Party Speaker

    The Go Party Speaker is designed with dual 2-inch full-range drivers and two 2-inch passive woofers, all within a compact cylindrical shape. It offers 16 hours of playback and has IPX6 waterproof protection. Plus, it features a loop handle and allows for RGB lighting and EQ customization through the JLab App. It also includes speakerphone capabilities for hands-free calls.

    Pop Party Speaker

    Weighing in at just 246.5g, the Pop Party Speaker comes with a 2-inch full-range driver and a 2-inch passive woofer. It provides 8+ hours of playtime (5+ hours with RGB) and is rated IPX5. Its detachable loop handle, flexible mounting options, and single multi-function button enhance its usability. The JLab App allows users to control lighting and EQ settings.

    Pricing

    The prices for JLab’s Party Speaker series start at $19.99 for the Pop Party, with the Go Party priced at $29.99, followed by the JBuds Party at $69.99, and the Epic Party at $149.99.

    Source:
    Link