Category: Audio

May 25, 2025
Galaxy Buds FE Successor May Feature Major Battery Life Upgrade
Key Takeaways
1. New Model Introduction: Samsung’s Galaxy Buds Core (model SM-R410) will replace the 2023 Galaxy Buds FE, targeting the budget-friendly market.
2. Battery Capacity Improvement: Each earbud will feature a 100mAh battery, and the charging case will have a 500mAh capacity, marking a 66% increase from the Buds FE.
3. Enhanced Playtime Potential: The Buds Core could exceed the Buds FE’s playtime of 6 hours with ANC and 21 hours with the case, especially with a modern chipset.
4. Improved Features: Anticipated enhancements include better Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Ambient Mode, appealing to Galaxy users.
5. Expected Launch Timeline: A global launch is likely during the July 2025 Galaxy Unpacked event, with certifications indicating availability in markets like India.
Samsung is getting ready to update its affordable TWS earphones with the Galaxy Buds Core, which will take the place of the 2023 Galaxy Buds FE. Recent leaks indicate a big battery capacity improvement, hinting at an exciting upgrade.
Introducing the Galaxy Buds Core
The Galaxy Buds Core, model SM-R410, is meant to succeed the budget-friendly Galaxy Buds FE, which were launched in 2023 at approximately $100. New findings on Samsung’s support pages and certifications from organizations like BIS and Nemko confirm the model number and suggest that a launch could be happening soon, possibly during the July 2025 Galaxy Unpacked event.
Increased Battery Capacity
A significant revelation from @TheGalox_ on X shows that the Buds Core will feature 100mAh batteries in each earbud and a 500mAh charging case—this is a 66% increase from the Buds FE’s 60mAh per bud and 4% more than its 479mAh case. This battery enhancement could greatly increase the playtime.
The Buds FE provides 6 hours of use with ANC activated and 21 hours when using the case. If the Buds Core comes with a modern chipset, it might exceed these figures, possibly competing with the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro’s 515mAh case and 48mAh buds. There are hints that the larger batteries may come with a new stem design, similar to the Buds 3 series.
Anticipated Features and Launch
The Buds Core is expected to deliver improved ANC and Ambient Mode, making it a great value for Galaxy enthusiasts. With the BIS certification indicating a launch in India, it’s likely that these earbuds will be available globally. Will the battery improvements and possible redesign of the Buds Core set it apart in the budget category? More information, including leaked images, is expected to surface as the launch date approaches.
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Tags: Galaxy Buds Core, Samsung, TWS earphones
May 25, 2025
OnePlus Buds 4 Launch: Affordable Earbuds with 55 dB Noise Cancellation
Key Takeaways
1. OnePlus Buds 4 feature upgraded 55 dB noise cancellation with 5.5 kHz ultra-wideband coverage.
2. The earbuds have a three-microphone setup with AI technology for improved call clarity.
3. They include two built-in DACs for enhanced audio details and a “golden sound” profile for personalized audio.
4. Advanced AI features include two-way translation and language interpretation capabilities.
5. Priced at CNY 449 (approximately $62), global release is expected alongside OnePlus 13S.
OnePlus has introduced a fresh set of wireless earbuds known as the Buds 4. These latest earbuds feature an enhanced 55 dB noise cancellation, which marks an upgrade from the previous generation. The firm also mentions that the noise cancellation mode offers a wide 5.5 kHz ultra-wideband coverage.
Impressive Microphone Setup
Another key feature of the OnePlus Buds 4 is their configuration of three microphones. The company states that this setup works in tandem with AI technology for call noise reduction, promising clearer voice calls even in tough environments. Regarding audio performance, these wireless earbuds maintain the dual-unit driver setup that was present in their predecessors.
Enhanced Audio Experience
Additionally, OnePlus has included two built-in DACs designed to enrich audio details and deliver a more vibrant sound experience. They also offer a unique “golden sound” profile, which is said to provide a tailored sound output that suits individual users best.
Advanced AI Features
Furthermore, the new earbuds boast two AI-driven capabilities. One feature allows for two-way translation, which seems to depend on an accompanying app. The other feature is also focused on communication, designed to help interpret various languages.
In terms of pricing, the OnePlus Buds 4 are launched at CNY 449, which is approximately $62. While there has been no announcement regarding the global release of these wireless earbuds, it is anticipated that they may be introduced to markets outside China alongside the upcoming OnePlus 13S.
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Tags: Buds 4, Noise Cancellation, Oneplus
May 23, 2025
Anker Soundcore V40i Earbuds with Clear Charging Case Released
Key Takeaways
1. Anker is preparing to release the soundcore V40i open-ear earbuds in the US, expected to improve upon the V30i model.
2. The V40i features 15 x 13 x 4 mm drivers, a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, and four microphones for voice calls.
3. Equipped with Bluetooth 5.4, the V40i allows dual connection to two devices simultaneously, with a range of approximately 33 ft.
4. The earbuds have a playback time of around six hours on a single charge, with a total of 21 hours using the charging case, but this is less than the V30i’s performance.
5. The anticipated retail price for the V40i is $90-100, with no official release confirmation from Anker yet.
Anker seems to be preparing to release the soundcore V40i open-ear earbuds in the United States. Known by their model number A3878, these earbuds appear to improve upon the previous V30i model. They were recently found in an update to the soundcore app and can be seen listed at Vietnamese retailer CellphoneS. Additionally, several support videos for this product have surfaced on YouTube.
Specifications and Features
As per the trusted source AnkerInsider, the soundcore V40i earbuds come with drivers measuring 15 x 13 x 4 mm, providing a frequency response range from 20 Hz to 20 kHz and an impedance of 16 Ω. The earbuds are equipped with four microphones, making them suitable for voice calls. Users can take advantage of various tap and hold controls, with more options available in the soundcore app. They also feature Bluetooth 5.4, which is an upgrade from the V30i’s Bluetooth 5.3, allowing for a range of approximately 10 m (~33 ft). The Dual Connection feature enables users to connect to two devices at the same time.
Design and Battery Life
The soundcore V40i earbuds come in silver and black and include a transparent charging case, which is charged via USB-C. They are said to provide around six hours of playback on one charge and up to 21 hours when using the charging case. This is a noticeable reduction compared to the V30i, which offered 12 hours of playback on a single charge and 36 hours with the case. The new model is rated IP55 for dust and water resistance, which is a slight improvement over the V30i’s IPX5 rating, indicating that the previous version lacked dust protection.
Anker is expected to launch the soundcore V40i in the US in the upcoming months with a suggested retail price of $90-100. However, there has been no official confirmation from Anker regarding the product’s release. Previously, the Anker soundcore V30i open-ear headphones were listed at $49.99 on Amazon US, but are currently priced at $36.55.
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Tags: Anker, Open-ear earbuds
May 22, 2025
EarFun Tune Pro: 120-Hour Battery, Hybrid ANC, Hi-Res Audio $69.99
Key Takeaways
1. Hi-Res Sound Quality: The Tune Pro features Hi-Res Audio certification with a dual-driver setup for rich bass, clear mids, and crisp highs, along with a Theater Mode for enhanced gaming and streaming.
2. Effective Noise Cancellation: It includes a hybrid ANC system capable of blocking up to 45dB of noise, easily activated with a toggle, and offers wired listening via an AUX port even when ANC is on.
3. Exceptional Battery Life: The headphones provide 120 hours of playback on a single charge, with a quick 15-minute charge allowing for 10 hours of listening time.
4. Convenient Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4 supports stable connections and multipoint pairing for seamless switching between devices, along with a dedicated Game Mode for low-latency performance.
5. Affordable Pricing: The EarFun Tune Pro is available for $69.99, offering immersive sound, noise cancellation, and clear call quality at an accessible price.
EarFun has launched its latest Tune Pro wireless headphones, designed for everyday use with an emphasis on extended battery life, impressive sound quality, and dependable noise cancellation.
Impressive Sound Features
The Tune Pro boasts Hi-Res Audio certification and a dual-driver setup. It uses a 40mm PET composite film driver for rich bass and clear mid frequencies, while a 10mm LCP polymer driver ensures crisp highs. Additionally, there’s a Theater Mode that enhances stereo and spatial sound, making it perfect for gaming and streaming.
Efficient Noise Cancellation
Noise cancellation is managed by a hybrid ANC system that can block up to 45dB of surrounding noise. Users can easily activate ANC with a quick toggle. For those who prefer wired listening, the AUX port is available even when ANC is on.
Long Battery Life and Call Quality
The Tune Pro allows for an impressive 120 hours of playback on a single charge. A quick 15-minute charge can provide 10 hours of listening time. This means less frequent recharging, even with heavy use. The call quality is enhanced by a five-mic AI system that minimizes background noise while isolating your voice. This feature is particularly useful for video calls, voice chats, and meetings.
Connectivity and Comfort
Bluetooth 5.4 ensures a stable connection and supports multipoint pairing, enabling users to switch between two devices seamlessly. The headphones come with a dedicated Game Mode that provides low-latency performance, which can be turned on through the EarFun Audio app. This app also offers features like a multi-band equalizer, ANC control, and adjustments for sound profiles. Weighing in light, the Tune Pro has soft, breathable ear cups designed for all-day comfort. They also fold up for easy storage, making them ideal for travel or daily use.
Pricing and Availability
You can purchase the EarFun Tune Pro now on EarFun’s website and Amazon store for $69.99.
Experience immersive sound with the EarFun Tune Pro Hybrid ANC. Enjoy 120 hours of Hi-Res audio, powerful noise cancellation, and clear calls—all for under $70.
Tags: EarFun, Tune Pro, Wireless Headphones
May 21, 2025
EarFun Launches Dual-Driver ANC Headphones for Music Lovers
Key Takeaways
1. High-Quality Sound: The Tune Pro headphones feature dual drivers (10 mm LCP and 40 mm PET) for precise music reproduction and meet Hi-Res Audio standards.
2. Active Noise Cancellation: They offer hybrid ANC that reduces external noise by up to 45 dB, enhancing listening experiences and call quality with AI noise reduction.
3. Long Battery Life: The headphones provide up to 80 hours of playtime with ANC on and 120 hours without, with a recharge time of about three hours.
4. Multipoint Connectivity: Equipped with Bluetooth 5.4, the Tune Pro supports multipoint connectivity and also includes wired audio options.
5. Affordable Pricing: Priced at $69.99, the Tune Pro headphones are available for purchase at the EarFun store on Amazon US.
EarFun has introduced the Tune Pro over-ear headphones, featuring active noise cancellation and dual drivers aimed at high-resolution music lovers. With a price tag of $69.99, these headphones are available for purchase at the EarFun store on Amazon US.
Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation
The Tune Pro headphones come equipped with a 10 mm LCP diaphragm driver and a 40 mm PET film along with an LCD diaphragm driver in each ear. This combination allows for precise music reproduction across a broad frequency range, meeting Hi-Res Audio standards. Thanks to hybrid ANC, external noise can be minimized by as much as 45 dB during music listening, and when making calls, AI noise reduction works seamlessly with five microphones.
Connectivity and Battery Life
These headphones offer multipoint wireless connectivity through Bluetooth 5.4, in addition to wired options for audio sources. The internal battery boasts an impressive 80 hours of playtime with ANC activated and 120 hours without it. Recharging the 1,100 mAh battery takes around three hours. In terms of dimensions, the headphones are 195.3 x 164.9 x 81.4 mm (or 7.7 x 6.5 x 3.2 in.) and they weigh 289.5 g (10.2 oz.).
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Tags: EarFun, Noise Cancellation, Tune Pro
May 19, 2025
Pro-Ject Audio Flatten It Machine Restores Warped Records
Key Takeaways
1. Pro-Ject Audio Systems has launched the Flatten It machine for vinyl record enthusiasts, priced at €799 (approximately $893).
2. Vinyl records can warp easily due to improper storage, and cheaper DIY solutions often fail to fix warping effectively.
3. The Flatten It machine uses heated aluminum plates with a temperature-controlled heating element to prevent overheating.
4. The machine is compatible with all record sizes and thicknesses, measuring 365 x 60 x 420 mm and weighing 4 kg.
5. It operates on global power sources, accommodating both 110/120 volts and 230/240 volts at 50 or 60 Hz.
Pro-Ject Audio Systems has introduced the Flatten It machine, designed for those who love vinyl records. The machine is priced at €799 (around $893) and can be bought directly from the Pro-ject website. Customers can also look for availability on Amazon US and Amazon DE.
The Issue with Vinyl Records
Vinyl records, made from polyvinyl chloride, can easily warp if not stored properly. This can happen in hot places, when records are tilted, or if they are not stacked correctly. Many cheaper DIY solutions do not effectively fix warping and often require too much time. Other flattening machines from brands like Orb and Furutech are priced higher.
Innovative Design Features
Pro-ject, which is part of Audio Tuning Vertriebs GmbH, has created its flattening machine using heated aluminum plates. The heating element is temperature-controlled, maintaining a precise hysteresis of 2 °C. This feature helps to avoid overheating the warped records during its one hour of heating and two hours of cooling period.
Specifications and Compatibility
The Flatten It can handle records of all sizes and thicknesses. It has dimensions of 365 x 60 x 420 mm (or 14.4 x 2.4 x 16.5 inches) and weighs about 4 kg (8.8 lbs). It works with power sources globally, accommodating both 110/120 volts and 230/240 volts at 50 or 60 Hz.
Pro-ject Audio Systems US, Pro-ject Audio Systems DE.
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Tags: audio equipment
May 18, 2025
Grab the Sony WH-1000XM5 Now for Just $299 – Limited Time Offer
Key Takeaways
1. Sony has launched the WH-1000XM6 headphones, featuring updated designs and new capabilities at a higher price point.
2. The older WH-1000XM5 model is available for $299.99, a 25% discount from its original price of $399.99.
3. The WH-1000XM5 headphones have eight microphones, noise cancellation, and support for Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
4. They offer a battery life of 30 hours with noise cancellation on and a quick charge feature that provides three hours of listening time after just three minutes of charging.
5. The WH-1000XM5 lacks USB-C audio support, which is found in other models like the Sonos Ace.
Sony has just unveiled the WH-1000XM6 headphones, their latest high-end model. This new version features updated designs and fresh capabilities, but it does come with a steeper price. If you’re not keen on spending that much for headphones, you might consider the previous model, the Sony WH-1000XM5, which is now available at a significantly reduced price.
Pricing and Discounts
The older Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are now priced at $299.99 on Amazon, reflecting a 25% discount from their original price of $399.99. This limited-time offer is applicable to both the Black and Silver color options. The Midnight Blue version, however, has a higher price tag of $348.
Features and Specifications
Even though the WH-1000XM5 model is three years old, it remains a strong contender among over-the-ear headphones. They feature eight microphones along with two processors that aid in noise cancellation and provide clear call quality. Additional features include wear detection, compatibility with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, as well as Bluetooth Multipoint. The headphones also support LDAC, spatial audio with head tracking, and can connect to compatible Sony Bravia TVs for a wireless Dolby Atmos experience.
Connecting the WH-1000XM5 is straightforward, as it supports Google Fast Pair and Windows Swift Pair. Users can enjoy a battery life of 30 hours with noise cancellation activated (or 40 hours without it). When the battery runs low, a quick three-minute charge will give you three hours of listening time. Alternatively, you can use the included 3.5mm audio cable for a wired connection. Unfortunately, they lack USB-C audio support, which is available in the Sonos Ace.
Important Note
Disclaimer: Notebookcheck cannot be held accountable for any price adjustments made by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this article was accurate at the time of writing and may be subject to time limitations and/or limited stock availability.
Tags: discount, headphones, Sony WH-1000XM5
May 16, 2025
Nothing Launches New Over-Ear Headphones This Summer
Key Takeaways
1. Nothing is entering the over-ear headphones market, confirmed through a YouTube video.
2. The company has partnered with KEF, a British audio firm, to enhance product development.
3. The design aims for a unique aesthetic, with clearly marked buttons to improve usability.
4. Nothing plans to price their headphones competitively, targeting a balance between low-cost and high-end options.
5. The headphones will be launched this summer, although they currently do not have a disclosed name.
Nothing has shared that it will be stepping into a brand new product category, which shouldn’t come as a shock following a previous announcement. With a video posted on their YouTube channel, Nothing has confirmed that they are developing their very first pair of over-ear headphones.
Partnership with KEF
This announcement follows closely after the company disclosed a collaboration with KEF, a well-known British audio firm. In that revelation, it was shared that both brands will pool their skills for both new and existing products. In the nearly 4-minute video shared on YouTube, the design team at Nothing gives insights into the forthcoming headphones.
Design Insights
The design leads expressed their dissatisfaction with the current over-ear headphones available, particularly from an aesthetic viewpoint. This indicates that Nothing’s inaugural headphones are likely to have a unique appearance, consistent with their other offerings. An additional feature of these headphones will be clearly marked buttons, which should help avoid the issue of mistakenly pressing the wrong one.
Nothing also pointed out the steep prices of existing headphones, even referencing the $549 AirPods Max (currently listed on Amazon for $479.99) to illustrate their point. The London-based tech firm aims for their headphones to sit between the low-cost and high-end markets, striving to create a product that won’t feel like a downgrade for users transitioning from more expensive headphones.
Expertise in Earbuds
The company is also relying on its background in making earbuds, which have garnered numerous positive reviews. They believe that their expertise in earbud production will aid in their success within the headphones market.
As of now, the Nothing over-ear headphones do not have a designated name, or at least it hasn’t been disclosed yet. However, it has been announced that they will launch this summer, which suggests that we may see them as early as June.
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Tags: KEF, Nothing, Over-Ear Headphones
May 16, 2025
iFi Go Pod Air: Convert Wired IEMs to Bluetooth Hi-Fi Earbuds
Key Takeaways
1. Improved sound quality while being 40% lighter and 20% smaller than the previous Go Pod model.
2. Compatible with all IEMs using 2-pin or MMCX connections, with additional adapters provided.
3. Supports high-quality Bluetooth codecs like Sony LDAC, Qualcomm aptX Adaptive, and LHDC.
4. Features an integrated microphone for phone calls and a touch-sensitive control area for playback.
5. Offers a battery life of 7 hours on its own and 15 hours with the charging case; priced at $249 with pre-orders available.
The iFi Go Pod Air is a new product that maintains the same features as the previous Go Pod model, but it offers improved sound quality while being 40% lighter and 20% smaller for better comfort. The main function stays the same: the iFi Go Pod Air connects wired earbuds and turns them into fully wireless earbuds, thanks to its built-in battery, Bluetooth chip, and amplifier.
Compatibility and Connectability
The iFi Go Pod Air works with all IEMs that have a cable connected through a 2-pin plug or MMCX. Additionally, the company provides adapters for T2, A2DP, and Pentaconn. Once everything is connected, users can link their earphones via Bluetooth, which supports high-quality codecs like Sony LDAC, Qualcomm aptX Adaptive, and LHDC, along with AAC and SBC. iFi claims that the sound quality is top-notch, featuring a 32-bit DAC from Cirrus Logic.
Usability Features
An integrated microphone allows users to make phone calls with the combination of IEMs and the Go Pod Air. There’s also a touch-sensitive area on the outside of the Go Pod Air for controlling playback. The IPX5 certification ensures that the device is protected from rain and sweat. The battery lasts for about seven hours on its own, or 15 hours when using the provided charging case, which is designed to charge the Go Pod Air without needing to take it out of the IEMs.
The iFi Go Pod Air is currently available for pre-order at a price of $249 in the manufacturer’s online shop. Shipping is anticipated to start on May 22.
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Tags: Hi-Fi Audio, wireless earbuds
May 15, 2025
Retro Boombox with Cassette Drive and Bluetooth by We Are Rewind
Key Takeaways
1. The GB-001 boombox combines a nostalgic design with modern technology, following the WE-001 cassette player.
2. It features a cassette drive with Dolby B noise reduction, allowing playback and recording from external devices.
3. Users can connect up to two microphones wirelessly via Bluetooth and enjoy up to 10 hours of playback on the built-in speakers.
4. The sound system includes four speakers for high-quality audio, offering a balanced sound profile without overwhelming bass.
5. The GB-001 will launch in Europe for €449 (around $500), with more details to be announced soon.
We Are Rewind has introduced its latest product, the GB-001, which is a boombox that features a nostalgic design while incorporating some modern technology. This follows their earlier release of the WE-001 compact cassette player. The GB-001’s retro elements, like the handle, VU meters that show the audio levels for both channels, and the various buttons and knobs, conceal the advanced technology inside.
Cassette Drive and Recording Features
One of the standout features of the GB-001 is its cassette drive, which includes Dolby B noise reduction. This allows users not only to listen to cassettes but also to record onto them, using an external device like a smartphone or a microphone. Interestingly, you can connect up to two microphones wirelessly through Bluetooth. The boombox is powered by a 3,000 mAh battery, which is said to offer around ten hours of music playback through its built-in speakers, and even up to 28 hours when using Bluetooth headphones.
Speaker Quality and Connectivity
The sound system in the We Are Rewind GB-001 is made up of four speakers, featuring two woofers and two tweeters that aim to deliver high-quality audio. Enhanced audio processing is said to provide strong stereo effects. Unlike many classic boomboxes from the 1980s, this model offers a more balanced sound profile, avoiding overwhelming bass that obscures higher frequencies. The Bluetooth capability enables users to connect wireless headphones and microphones, and the device can also function as a Bluetooth speaker.
The We Are Rewind GB-001 boombox is set to launch in Europe with a price tag of €449 (approximately $500). While the exact release date has yet to be announced, more information should be available soon on the We Are Rewind website.
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Tags: Boombox