JBL is poised for a thrilling launch in India with its newest wireless earbuds, the JBL Live Beam 3, scheduled to release on June 18th. After being revealed at CES 2024 and showcasing its microsite on Amazon, JBL India, and JBL Malaysia platforms, the brand has announced that these earbuds are priced at Rs. 13,999. The JBL Live Beam 3 is designed to deliver exceptional audio quality along with a host of cutting-edge features.
JBL Live Beam 3 Specifications
The earbuds are fitted with 10mm dynamic drivers powered by JBL’s Signature Sound, ensuring superior audio performance. They come with a customizable SmartCase that lets users control JBL Spatial Sound, manage their music and calls, and personalize the screensaver. The earbuds support Hi-Res audio with LDAC and feature True Adaptive Noise Cancellation along with a smart ambient mode, offering users either an immersive listening experience or situational awareness.
Equipped with six microphones, these earbuds promise clear and crisp call quality. The battery life is notable, providing up to 48 hours of playtime with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) off, and up to 40 hours with ANC on. Additionally, Speed Charge technology gives 4 hours of playtime with just a 15-minute charge. The earbuds also support wireless charging for added ease.
Connectivity and Customization
The JBL Live Beam 3 earbuds use Bluetooth 5.3 for a stable and efficient connection. They are compatible with the JBL Headphones app, enabling users to customize EQ settings and switch between Smart Audio and Video modes. Available in Black, Blue, and Gray, these earbuds cater to different style preferences. Starting June 18th, the earbuds will be available for purchase on Amazon India.
Audio-Technica has launched the ATH-S300BT wireless headphones, offering up to 90 hours of playback. These headphones include noise-canceling technology with options for hear-through, active noise cancellation, and off modes, enabling users to adjust the level of ambient noise they hear.
Exceptional Battery Life
One of the key features of the ATH-S300BT is its impressive battery life. It can last up to 90 hours on a full charge. Additionally, a quick 3-minute charge provides an extra 2.5 hours of playback if the battery is running low.
Design and Comfort
The headphones are crafted for comfort, featuring soft earpads and an ergonomic fit suitable for prolonged use. Available in beige and black, they also boast a terrazzo-marbled design for added aesthetic appeal.
Connectivity and Sound Quality
Utilizing Bluetooth 5.1, these headphones ensure a stable connection up to 33 feet and can connect to two devices simultaneously, making it easy to switch between them. They support SBC and AAC audio codecs to deliver high sound quality. The 40 mm drivers offer clear audio, and built-in MEMS microphones ensure clear calls, even in noisy environments. A low-latency mode reduces audio delay, enhancing the experience for gaming or video watching. Compatible with Siri and Google Assistant, the headphones can also be used wired with the included 3.5mm cable, which features a mic for calls.
Pricing & Availability
The ATH-S300BT will be available in beige and black starting in July, with a retail price of $99 MSRP.retail price of $99 MSRP
Jabra has announced it will discontinue its Elite series of consumer earbuds to focus on expanding its professional audio, video, and hearing product lines. This decision follows the recent launch of the Elite 10 and Elite 8 Gen 2 earbuds.
Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2
Despite the discontinuation, Jabra reassures customers that the new Elite 10 and Elite 8 Gen 2 will remain available and supported. Below are the details of these newly released earbuds.
Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2: The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 comes with several notable features, including an LE Audio smart case. This technology enables the case to function as a wireless audio transmitter. It allows the case to connect to devices that lack Bluetooth capability, such as airline entertainment systems or gym equipment, by using a cable with a 3.5mm jack or USB-C connector, and then transmit the audio to your earbuds via LE Audio.
Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 LE Audio Smart Case The model also features enhanced Spatial Sound with Dolby Head Tracking for an improved Dolby Atmos experience. The Jabra Advanced Active Noise Cancellation is now up to twice as powerful as the earlier Elite 10.
Call quality has been upgraded with six microphones and effective noise-reduction algorithms. The new Natural HearThrough feature with better wind-noise detection is now twice as effective. These earbuds come with 10mm drivers and a semi-open design featuring Jabra ComfortFit technology. They offer up to 6 hours of battery life (27 hours with the case) with ANC enabled and have an IP57 rating for splash and dust resistance.
Additional features include Bluetooth multipoint connection, Fast Pair, Swift Pair, and Spotify Tap playback. The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 is priced at $280 and will be available in mid-June in titanium black, gloss black, cocoa, and two new colors: denim and soft white.
Jabra Elite 8 Gen 2: The Jabra Elite 8 Gen 2 also boasts several updates, including an LE Audio smart case for streaming audio from non-Bluetooth devices. It features enhanced Spatial Sound powered by Dolby Audio and Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, which is now up to twice as strong as the preceding Elite 8 Active.
The Natural HearThrough feature now has superior wind-noise detection and is twice as effective. Call performance is improved with six microphones, a wind-protecting mesh, and a noise-cancellation algorithm. These earbuds are fully sweat-proof and waterproof with an IP68 rating for the earbuds and an IP54 rating for the case.
They provide a secure fit with Jabra ShakeGrip technology and up to 8 hours of battery life with ANC on (32 hours with the case). Additional features include stable smartwatch connectivity, Swift Pair, Google Fast Pair, and Spotify Tap playback, along with Bluetooth multipoint connection.
The Jabra Elite 8 Gen 2 is priced at $230 and will be available in mid-June in navy, black, and two new colors: coral and olive.
Remember the days when smartphones weren’t just glass-and-metal slabs? When each model had its own character designed to resonate with different audiences? Those days seem to be fading, but some companies are attempting to revive that spirit. Nothing, for example, made waves with a unique, affordable transparent phone that shunned bloatware—refreshingly distinct in a market full of lookalikes.
Now, Moondrop, renowned for high-fidelity audio gear, has introduced the MIAD 01. Tailored for audiophiles who demand superior sound quality on the go, what sets this phone apart? Let’s delve into it.
Dual DACs and Headphone Jacks
The MIAD 01 is designed with a strong focus on high-fidelity audio. Unlike most modern phones that have eliminated the headphone jack, this device features two: a standard 3.5mm jack and a 4.4mm balanced jack. The 3.5mm jack serves casual listeners, while the 4.4mm jack caters to audiophiles using balanced headphones for superior signal separation and clarity.
The standout feature is its dual Cirrus Logic MasterHiFi DAC chips. These DACs convert digital audio signals into analog signals for headphones. While most phones have a single, basic DAC, the MIAD 01 uses dual high-fidelity DACs with support for 32-bit audio processing, significantly enhancing sound clarity and detail. This theoretically allows for a wider dynamic range and reduced noise levels, offering a cleaner listening experience.
Additional Audio Features
Moondrop doesn’t stop at dual DACs. The audio circuit boasts a 6-layer gold-sinking PCB to dissipate heat and minimize electrical interference. Additionally, an independent Low-Dropout Voltage Regulator (LDO) ensures a clean, stable power supply for the audio components.
The phone includes a 100-level hardware DAC volume control for precise adjustments without sacrificing audio quality. Audiophiles can also customize EQ settings through a dedicated app. However, the true benefits of these features depend on the quality of your headphones or earphones—lower-end products may not fully exploit the MIAD 01’s capabilities.
Mid-Range Specs
Outside its audio capabilities, the MIAD 01 offers a conventional mid-range phone experience. It features a 6.7-inch 1080p OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. Powered by a mid-range MediaTek Dimensity 7050 processor, it handles everyday tasks but may not impress power users. The camera system includes a 64MP main sensor and an 8MP ultrawide sensor, which are decent but not groundbreaking. Moondrop admits the camera is functional but not exceptional.
The phone runs on Android 13, free from bloatware and intrusive data collection, but lacks Google Mobile Services (GMS) certification. Users will need to sideload essential apps like Gmail and Maps. It is powered by a 5000mAh battery supporting 33W USB-PD charging and offers 5Gbps USB 3.1 connectivity.
Design-wise, the MIAD 01 is quite thick, measuring 9.15mm and weighing 202 grams. It has a unique look with a raised bar housing the camera module, MIAD 01 branding, and orange accents, complemented by a textured finish on the lower half.
Price and Availability
The Moondrop MIAD 01 is priced at CNY 2499 (~$349), placing it in the mid-range segment. It is currently available through select e-commerce partners and authorized stores in China, with no global availability details announced yet.
OS & Software: Android 13 (ships without Google Mobile Services, which users can install manually)
Weight: 202 grams
Conclusion: In its Own Niche
The MIAD 01 carves out a unique niche in the smartphone market. For audiophiles, its dual DACs and headphone jacks are highly attractive. However, its mid-range processing power, potentially underwhelming camera system, and lack of pre-installed Google Mobile Services could be drawbacks for some. As a newcomer to the smartphone market, Moondrop’s long-term software support is also uncertain.
Realme is gearing up to launch the Realme Buds Air 6 Pro in India on June 20th, following their recent release in China. The earbuds will be available for purchase starting at 1:30 PM via Flipkart and the official Realme website. Last month, Realme introduced the Realme Buds Air 6 Pro in China along with the Realme Buds Air 6 and Realme GT Neo 6.
Realme Buds Air 6 Pro Specifications
The Realme Buds Air 6 Pro boasts up to 50dB of active noise cancellation (ANC) and LDAC connectivity. Equipped with a six-mic system and Hi-Res Audio, the earbuds feature dual drivers: an 11mm bass driver and a 6mm micro-planar tweeter.
These earbuds are designed to support a 360-degree Spatial Audio Effect for an immersive sound experience. They also allow dual device connections, enabling users to pair them with two devices simultaneously, such as a smartphone and a tablet.
The Buds Air 6 Pro offers up to 10 hours of playback on a single charge and up to 40 hours of total battery life when used with the charging case. Additionally, a quick 10-minute charge can provide up to seven hours of usage.
Pricing and Availability
The price for the Indian market hasn't been disclosed yet. In China, the Realme Buds Air 6 Pro was launched at 469 Yuan (approximately ₹5,500). The earlier model, the Realme Buds Air 5 Pro, was introduced in India at ₹4,999. It's likely that the new model will be priced similarly.
Upcoming Launches
On June 20th, Realme is also set to unveil the Realme GT 6 in India and other global markets. The company has confirmed that the device will feature a 50 MP Sony LYT-808 primary camera with optical image stabilization. Powered by a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chip, the device promises enhanced image signal processing capabilities. For a preview of some camera samples from this upcoming device, you can click this link.
The Realme GT 6 is scheduled for release in India on June 20. Alongside this smartphone, Realme has also announced the debut of a new TWS earphone, the Realme Buds Air6 Pro. This follows the launch of the Buds Air6 last month, which received a hands-on review. The Pro model is expected to offer slightly enhanced specifications, which have been detailed on the product's microsite.
Realme Buds Air6 Pro to Launch Next Week
The Realme Buds Air6 Pro retains the in-ear design with a stem and angled earbuds featuring silicone ear tips, similar to the Buds Air6. These earphones are equipped with Hi-Fi quality dual drivers, including an 11mm bass driver and a 6mm micro-planar tweeter. They are said to support Hi-Res audio with LDAC codec to ensure streaming of original quality audio.
The Buds Air6 Pro is teased to come with 50dB active noise cancellation and will feature six microphones to ensure clear call quality. These TWS earphones also offer 360-degree spatial audio for an immersive listening experience, along with a personalized audio algorithm. The Buds Air6 Pro are claimed to provide 10 hours of usage on a single charge, with the battery life extending to 40 hours when using the case. Additionally, they support Google Fast Pair and can connect to two devices simultaneously.
Pricing and Availability
Details regarding the pricing and availability of the Realme Buds Air6 Pro will be revealed next week. The earphones will be available for purchase on Flipkart and Realme’s official website.
Meanwhile, the Realme GT 6 will be powered by a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor and will feature a 5,500mAh battery with 120W fast charging support.
Samsung is preparing to unveil its Galaxy Buds 3 series earbuds, likely in conjunction with the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6 smartphones. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, which were introduced in August 2022, are now available at a significant discount in India.
Initially priced at ₹17,999, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro can now be purchased for as low as ₹9,999. On Amazon India, the earbuds are listed at ₹10,949. Additionally, there is a ₹1,250 discount available for HDFC Bank Credit Card EMI transactions over 6 or 9 months. For those preferring shorter commitments, there’s also a ₹1,000 discount on a 3-month EMI using an HDFC Bank debit card.
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Specifications
The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro features a design akin to the original Galaxy Buds Pro, complete with silicone ear tips that enhance fit and noise isolation. They come equipped with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) capable of reducing ambient noise by up to 33dB and also offer a transparency mode.
These earbuds utilize Bluetooth 5.3 and boast an IPX7 water resistance rating. Each earbud is fitted with a 10mm driver, delivering 24-bit Hi-Fi sound for clear and rich audio. They support 360-degree audio for an immersive listening experience and incorporate Dolby Head Tracking for a cinematic soundscape.
For call quality, the Buds 2 Pro are outfitted with three microphones—two external and one internal—to minimize background noise. The Voice Detect feature automatically transitions from ANC to Ambient Mode when you start speaking, making conversations clearer.
Samsung states that the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offers up to 8 hours of battery life on a single charge with ANC turned off and up to 29 hours in total when used with the charging case. The earbuds can be recharged via a USB-C port or wirelessly, with a quick five-minute charge providing around 55 minutes of listening time.
Marshall has widened its selection of TWS earphones in India, which now includes just three models. The newest addition from the renowned British audio brand is the Marshall Minor IV true wireless earbuds. This model showcases the company’s classic design aesthetic, somewhat resembling Apple’s AirPods. However, the TWS earphones do not feature ANC despite their price point. Let’s delve into what the device offers straight out of the box.
Marshall Minor IV specifications and features
The Marshall Minor IV are in-ear TWS earphones that come with silicone ear tips. They boast a leather-like texture and knurled stems for an upscale appearance, with the bottom part of the stem highlighted in Gold. These earphones are also IPX4 water-resistant. Users can perform various functions by tapping on the stems, and music will automatically pause when the earphones are removed and resume when reinserted.
Equipped with 12mm dynamic drivers, the Marshall Minor IV promises to deliver the brand’s signature sound, consistent with other devices in their lineup. The earbuds are acoustically tuned to offer a well-balanced sound and provide excellent call quality without distractions. They are Bluetooth LE audio-ready, ensuring higher audio quality and future-proofing.
Connectivity and Battery Life
The Marshall Minor IV supports Bluetooth Multipoint, allowing connection to multiple devices simultaneously. The earphones are said to provide 7 hours of use on a single charge, with the battery life extending up to 30 hours when using the charging case. An in-app battery management feature is included to help prolong battery life, along with over-the-air software updates for ongoing improvements. The device also supports wireless charging and has a USB-C port for added convenience.
Pricing and Availability
The Marshall Minor IV is priced at Rs 11,999 and is available for pre-order on Amazon, with shipping starting on June 15. Alternatively, they can be purchased from Marshall’s official website.
Edifier has unveiled its latest wireless portable speaker, the Edifier M125, which features a highly compact design and Bluetooth compatibility, along with the ability to play audio locally.
Speaker Specifications
The Edifier M125 is equipped with dual 36mm full-range speakers and an 86 x 35mm large-size passive radiator, delivering a total output of 2x 4W. While it offers Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, it employs the SBC audio codec, which may result in compressed audio quality compared to speakers that support codecs like AAC.
Compact Design and Functionality
Measuring 17.6cm in length, 6.7cm in width, and 2.9cm in thickness, and weighing 260g, the Edifier M125 is remarkably compact. It can play audio via Bluetooth and includes an SD card slot for playing music stored locally on a memory card. Charging is done through its USB Type-C port.
Connectivity and Battery Life
The Edifier M125 supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices. You can control the settings using Edifier’s mobile app on your smartphone. The speaker houses a 2600mAh battery, providing up to 13 hours of continuous playback. Initially launched in China, the Edifier M125 is priced at 169 CNY, which is roughly 23 USD.
Nu Republic, an Indian brand renowned for its wearable technology, has just unveiled an intriguing new audio product with a standout design. The company had previously hinted at the Cyberstud Spin, a TWS earbud that also functions as a fidget spinner. Now, this innovative hearable has officially debuted in India.
Nu Republic Cyberstud Spin: Versatile TWS Meets Fidget Spinner
The truly wireless earbuds feature a unique 2-in-1 design with vibrant colors. Developed as part of Nu Republic’s “wear tech” lineup, the standout feature is its charging case, which sports a metallic finish and a special design that allows it to be used as a fidget spinner. The earbuds have a semi-transparent appearance and boast Nu Republic’s proprietary X-Bass technology, thanks to its 13mm Neodymium audio drivers, which ensures clear vocals and rich bass.
The Cyberstud Spin connects via Bluetooth 5.3 and includes a dedicated gaming mode that reduces latency to just 40ms. It offers a connectivity range of up to 15 meters. According to the brand, a single full charge provides up to 70 hours of usage and supports fast charging. The earbuds also feature ENC (Environment Noise Cancellation) for better call quality. With an IPX5 rating, they are resistant to splashes and sweat, making them ideal for rigorous workouts. Additional features include touch controls for ease of use, 310 hours of standby time, and Dual Mode (Game/Music).
Pricing and Availability
Nu Republic announced the launch in the Indian market today (12th June 2024). The starting price is 2,499 INR (approximately 30 US Dollars). These earbuds are available for purchase on the brand’s official website. If you’re interested in this audio product, you can click here to visit the official listing.
