Category: Audio

May 7, 2025
Sony WH-1000XM6 Specs and Pricing Leaked Before May Launch
Key Takeaways
1. Pricing: The WH-1000XM6 will cost €449.99 in France, a €30 increase from the WH-1000XM5, with prices in Spain and Portugal at €469.99, and $449.99 in the US.
2. Release Timeline: Pre-orders in France are expected to start on May 17, with deliveries beginning on May 27, following a probable release date of May 15.
3. Specifications: The headphones feature foldable hinges for easier transport, an HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3, 12 microphones, and improved audio enhancements including 30mm carbon fiber dome drivers.
4. Call Quality and Features: Enhanced call quality with a six-microphone array and AI noise reduction, alongside features like 360 Reality Audio, Speak-to-Chat, and multipoint connectivity.
5. Battery and Design: Battery life remains at up to 30 hours, quick charge capability, weighs about 254g, and will be available in three colors: Black, Platinum Silver, and Midnight Blue.
A recent leak from Dealabs has given us a closer look at Sony’s new WH-1000XM6 headphones. This latest leak aligns with details we saw in a previous Amazon Spain listing, but it also introduces specific pricing for different countries and seems to confirm the pre-order and delivery schedule for France.
Pricing Information
The WH-1000XM6 will be available in France for €449.99, which is a rise of €30 from the WH-1000XM5’s launch price of €419.99. This aligns with earlier reports that hinted at a 10% price increase overall. In Spain and Portugal, the headphones will cost a bit more at €469.99, while in the US and Germany, they’ll be priced at $449.99 and €449.99 respectively. The UK will see a lower price tag of £399.99.
Release Timeline
The latest updates also provide a more precise launch timeframe. Previous leaks suggested a release between May 14 and 16, with May 15 being the most probable date. The Dealabs thread indicates that pre-orders in France are likely to start on May 17, with deliveries expected to begin on May 27. Discussions among sources like The Walkman Blog and forum participants suggest that this might mean different release times for other countries.
Specifications and Features
In terms of specs, the WH-1000XM6 appears to be a major improvement over the previous model. Sony is reintroducing foldable hinges, a feature that users missed in the WH-1000XM4. This should make the new version easier to transport and store. According to speculation from Reddit and product leaks, these hinges have been strengthened to prevent cracking, which was a known problem with the XM5 (currently priced at $348 on Amazon).
Inside, the headphones are equipped with the new HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3, along with 12 microphones and an improved Adaptive NC Optimizer that adjusts according to fit and environment. Audio enhancements include 30mm carbon fiber dome drivers, Hi-Res and LDAC support, as well as a customizable 10-band EQ.
Call Quality and Additional Features
Call quality is improved thanks to a six-microphone beamforming array with AI wind noise reduction. Features like Sony’s 360 Reality Audio, Speak-to-Chat, multipoint connectivity, DSEE Extreme, and Smart Ambient Modes will also be included.
Battery life remains unchanged, offering up to 30 hours of usage, and a quick charge feature allows for 1 hour of playback with just 3 minutes of charging. The weight is approximately 254g, and there will be three color choices at launch: Black, Platinum Silver, and Midnight Blue.
The WH-1000XM6 has been seen on various Amazon platforms, although many listings have been removed, including the one from Amazon Spain that first revealed the €470 price and May 15 release date. With Amazon France now reflecting similar information and providing shipping estimates, it seems we are just days away from an official announcement from Sony.
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Link
Tags: headphones, sony, WH-1000XM6
May 7, 2025
Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 3rd Gen: Better Bass & Battery Life
Key Takeaways
1. Design Consistency: The Beosound A1 3rd Gen retains the donut-shaped design and IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, but is slightly heavier and comes in only three color options.
2. Enhanced Audio Performance: The new model features an improved woofer for better bass and offers up to 24 hours of playtime on a single charge, an increase from the 18 hours of the previous version.
3. Connectivity Features: While it has dropped Amazon Alexa support, it includes Bluetooth Multipoint, Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair, and supports Qualcomm’s aptX Adaptive codec.
4. Speakerphone Capability: The speaker has three microphones for effective speakerphone use and can connect with a second unit for stereo sound, even with the older 2nd Gen model.
5. Pricing and Warranty: The Beosound A1 3rd Gen is priced at $349 in the US and includes a five-year warranty, with a USB-C to USB-C cable provided in the box.
Bang & Olufsen has revealed the latest version of its Beosound A1 portable Bluetooth speaker. Known as the Beosound A1 3rd Gen, this new model doesn’t stray far from the look of the previous version, but it does feature some enhancements.
Design and Build Quality
The speaker keeps the same donut-shaped design as its forerunner. It maintains the same size and holds onto the IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, but it’s slightly heavier than before. Additionally, color choices have been reduced. While the Beosound A1 2nd Gen was offered in six colors, the new 3rd Gen only comes in three: Natural Aluminum, Honey Tone, and Eucalyptus Green. All of these options have an aluminum body with a waterproof leather strap.
Improved Audio Features
Bang & Olufsen claims the new model has a better woofer that provides more bass. Users can expect up to 24 hours of playtime on a single charge, which is an improvement from the 18 hours found in the 2nd generation. Similar to the Beoplay Eleven (priced at $476.19 on Amazon), the Beosound A1 has a replaceable battery, though it must be changed at an authorized service center.
Connectivity and Functionality
On the downside, the Beosound A1 3rd Gen has dropped support for Amazon’s Alexa assistant. However, it still offers Bluetooth Multipoint, Google Fast Pair, and Microsoft Swift Pair, along with a Made for iPhone certification. The speaker also supports Qualcomm’s aptX Adaptive codec, and its three microphones make it effective as a speakerphone for calls. Plus, you can connect it with a second unit for stereo sound, even if that unit is the older Beosound A1 2nd Gen.
The Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 3rd Gen is currently available for purchase at $349 in the US, £299 in the UK, and €349 across Europe. The 2nd gen model can be found for $228.74 on Amazon. In the box, users will find a USB-C to USB-C cable for charging and wired connections. Bang & Olufsen is also providing a warranty of up to five years.
Source:
Link
Tags: Bang & Olufsen, Portable Bluetooth Speaker
May 7, 2025
Sony WH-1000XM6: First Look at Redesigned Over-Ear Headphones
Key Takeaways
1. The Sony WH-1000XM6 was briefly listed on Amazon Spain, revealing key details before the listing was removed.
2. A promotional image of the WH-1000XM6 has surfaced on Reddit, although its authenticity is uncertain.
3. The WH-1000XM6 is expected to have foldable hinges, making it more portable compared to the WH-1000XM5.
4. Design improvements include enhanced hinge design to address issues with cracked hinges experienced by WH-1000XM5 users.
5. The WH-1000XM5 is currently priced at $329.99 on Amazon.
A few days ago, the Sony WH-1000XM6 was listed on Amazon Spain. Although the listing has since been removed, it shared important details like the release date, launch price, and several enhancements compared to the older WH-1000XM5, which is currently priced at $329.99 on Amazon. The only missing information was any promotional images.
Leaked Image Surfaces
Now, it seems that the promotional image has surfaced on Reddit. According to The Walkman Blog, this image is reportedly from a product roadmap that Sony circulated internally about ‘a week or two ago.’ Because of this, we still can’t confirm if it’s genuine, which might explain why the image isn’t very clear.
Design Improvements
Nonetheless, the design modifications from the WH-1000XM5 appear to match the details previously disclosed by Amazon Spain. For instance, the WH-1000XM6 features foldable hinges, a change from the WH-1000XM5, which did not have this feature. This means that the WH-1000XM6 should be easier to store in a bag or suitcase. Moreover, it looks like Sony has made enhancements to the hinge design, which should make many WH-1000XM5 users happy, especially those who have dealt with cracked hinges over the three years since the headphones were first launched.
Source:
Link

Tags: sony, WH-1000XM6
May 4, 2025
iQOO Buds 1i Launch: 50-Hour Battery & Multiple Sound Profiles
Key Takeaways
1. High-Quality Audio: The iQOO Buds 1i feature a 10 mm high-resolution speaker driver and support a frequency response range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz for clear sound.
2. AI Noise Cancellation: They include AI noise cancellation technology to enhance voice clarity during calls by reducing background noise.
3. Customized Sound Profiles: Users can choose from four sound profiles—Mega Bass, Clear Voice, Clear High Pitch, and Melodic Audiobooks—for a personalized listening experience.
4. Impressive Battery Life: The earbuds offer a total battery life of 50 hours with the charging case, and a quick 10-minute charge provides up to 3 hours of playback.
5. Durable and Feature-Rich: The Buds 1i have Bluetooth 5.4, dual-device connectivity, touch controls, and an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, making them suitable for various activities.
iQOO has quietly introduced its new audio accessory, the iQOO Buds 1i (also referred to as iQOO 1i), in Indonesia. Despite the low-key launch, the Buds 1i are already featured on iQOO’s official site. Let’s dive into the features that the Buds 1i bring to the table.
Key Features of iQOO Buds 1i
The iQOO Buds 1i come equipped with a 10 mm high-resolution speaker driver that delivers a detailed and balanced sound experience. They support a frequency response range from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, which ensures clearer audio playback. Additionally, the earbuds utilize AI noise cancellation technology to improve voice clarity during calls by reducing surrounding noise.
Enhanced Listening Experience
To further enhance the listening experience, the device includes DeepX 3.0 stereo sound effects. Users can choose from four distinct sound profiles: Mega Bass, Clear Voice, Clear High Pitch, and Melodic Audiobooks. This variety allows for a more tailored audio experience based on personal preference.
With an impressive 50-hour total battery life when using the charging case, these earbuds are designed for long-lasting use without the need for frequent recharging. The company claims that just a 10-minute charge can provide up to 3 hours of playback time.
Connectivity and Additional Features
This device is enabled with Bluetooth 5.4 and supports dual-device connectivity. For gamers, an ultra-low latency mode of 88ms is available to ensure that audio syncs perfectly with gameplay. The earbuds also feature touch controls, Google Fast Pair, Google Assistant, and a “Find My Earphones” function. They can be used with devices running Android 12 or later. Moreover, the Buds 1i are rated IP54 for dust and water resistance, adding to their durability.
Pricing Information
The iQOO Buds 1i are priced at IDR 349,000 on iQOO’s Indonesia website, which is roughly $22. They come in an eye-catching black-yellow dual-tone finish called Starlight.
Tags: audio accessory, Bluetooth Earbuds
May 4, 2025
Shanling Launches Portable CD Player with Vacuum Tubes and R2R DAC
Key Takeaways
1. Shanling has launched the EC Zero T, a premium portable CD player aimed at audiophiles, competing with the FiiO DM13 CD player but at a higher price point of $589.
2. The device features Shanling’s own R2R type DAC for high fidelity sound and includes JAN6418 vacuum tubes, enhancing its premium appeal.
3. It offers versatile connectivity options with analog outputs (3.5 mm and 4.4 mm), Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX adaptive support, and a USB-C port for use as a DAC.
4. To combat vibrations that can cause skipping, the EC Zero T includes a specialized servo system, motor, and a magnetic mechanism for securing CDs.
5. The EC Zero T weighs 669 grams due to its solid CNC-milled aluminum construction, with a battery life of 8 hours via 3.5 mm output and up to 20 hours when using Bluetooth.
After the comeback of portable cassette players, portable CD players have recently become trendy again. Riding on this wave, Shanling has unveiled the EC Zero T, a somewhat premium product packed with features that are bound to catch the attention of many audiophiles. This device will rival the FiiO DM13 CD player, although it comes with a noticeably higher price tag.
About Shanling
For those not familiar with the brand, Shanling is a Chinese manufacturer known for making CD players since the late 1990s. In recent years, they have also introduced budget-friendly yet highly rated digital music devices, like the M1 Plus, which currently retails for $199 on Amazon.
Notable Features
With the EC Zero T, Shanling has crafted its own R2R type DAC, which is known for its linearity and high fidelity (though the actual noticeable difference is up for debate due to many other factors). Additionally, the device features a pair of JAN6418 vacuum tubes that are intended to elevate its premium status. These tubes are said to be shock and vibration resistant, and like many tube-based products today, they are visible through a small window.
Analog outputs are available through two line level ports, 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm, which allows a broader range of headphone compatibility. There’s also Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX adaptive support, and you can use the USB-C port to connect it as a DAC for external devices like laptops.
Addressing Vibrations
Vibrations pose a challenge for all CD drives, as even the slightest misalignment of the laser can lead to skipping, similar to issues with vinyl records. Shanling asserts that they have integrated features to combat this, including a specialized servo system and motor. They also introduced a magnetic mechanism to secure the CD, moving away from the bead-type clamp you might recall from older laptop CD drives.
Design and Battery Life
Although designed for portability, the EC Zero T is quite weighty at 669 grams, attributed to its construction from solid CNC-milled aluminum. It boasts a battery life of 8 hours when using the 3.5 mm output, and up to 20 hours when connected via Bluetooth.
The EC Zero T is priced at $589 and will be available shortly through authorized sellers in the US and Europe. You can already place a pre-order with a UK-based retailer.
Source:
Link
Tags: portable CD player
May 4, 2025
Sony WH-1000XM6 and Xperia 1 VII Specs and Pricing Leaked
Key Takeaways
1. Release Date and Pricing: The Sony WH-1000XM6 is set to release on May 15, with a launch price of €470 (approximately $438.99).
2. Price Increase: The WH-1000XM6 is expected to be about 10% more expensive than its predecessor, the WH-1000XM5, which is priced at $398.
3. Enhanced Features: The new headphones will include a QN3 processor, more microphones for improved active noise cancellation, and a third-party transparency feature.
4. Design and Battery Life: The WH-1000XM6 will return to a classic foldable design and feature 30mm drivers with up to 30 hours of battery life.
5. Additional Technologies: New features include a magnetic case, a 10-band equalizer, and 360-degree upmix technology for surround sound.
Leaks about Sony’s upcoming high-end wireless over-ear headphones are flowing in rapidly. Just yesterday, fresh design and release details for the WH-1000XM6 were shared online by The Walkman Blog. Now, these headphones have popped up on Amazon Spain ahead of their official announcement.
Release Date and Pricing
As shown in the screenshots below, the listing not only hints at the release date and pricing in Euros for the much-anticipated WH-1000XM6 but also reveals several specifications. According to the listing, a release date of May 15 is mentioned, likely coinciding with the rumored launch of the Xperia 1 VII.
The launch price is listed as €470, which translates to approximately $438.99, excluding the 21% VAT in Spain. This leaked price aligns with earlier predictions that the WH-1000XM6 would cost about 10% more than its predecessor, the WH-1000XM5, which is currently priced at $398 on Amazon. The price point of $438.99 indicates a similar increase in the US market.
Specifications and Features
In addition, the Amazon Spain listing highlights enhancements such as a new QN3 processor and a third more microphones for better active noise cancellation (ANC) and transparency features. There are also mentions of a new magnetic case, a 10-band equalizer, and 360-degree upmix technology for creating surround sound content. As per earlier rumors, the WH-1000XM6 will return to Sony’s classic foldable design style.
On the flip side, it appears the WH-1000X will feature 30mm drivers and boast up to 30 hours of battery life. So far, the only thing that hasn’t leaked about the WH-1000XM6 are the images. We wouldn’t be shocked to see these surface online before the official launch. For now, you can check out the complete list of features mentioned by Amazon Spain in the screenshot below.
Source:
Link
Tags: sony, WH-1000XM6, Wireless Headphones
May 3, 2025
Sony WH-1000XM6 Leak: Foldable Design and US Price Increase Rumors
Key Takeaways
1. The WH-1000XM6 headphones may be about 10% more expensive in Europe than the WH-1000XM5, currently priced at $398 in the US.
2. The US price for the WH-1000XM6 is speculated to be around $449, potentially with a $50 increase.
3. The WH-1000XM6 may not be available in stores until mid-June, with regional availability possibly affecting release dates.
4. The new model will feature a folding design, revisiting elements from the WH-1000XM4, with changes to the headband design.
5. Images of the WH-1000XM6 are expected to be leaked soon, although this remains speculative.
The Walkman Blog has shared fresh details about the WH-1000XM6 just a few days after Roland Quandt made similar claims. To summarize, Quandt mentioned that Sony’s upcoming over-ear wireless headphones would be released soon in three different colors. Most notably, he suggested that the WH-1000XM6 could be approximately 10% pricier in Europe compared to the WH-1000XM5 (currently priced at $398 on Amazon).
Price Speculations
While this might be correct, The Walkman Blog’s recent updates indicate that this price hike won’t apply to the US market. Instead, it reports having information from a “reliable source” stating that the WH-1000XM6 will be priced at $479, based on an unidentified second currency. Thus, the actual price in the US might be less, although we wouldn’t be shocked to see a $50 increase, bringing it to $449.
Availability Timeline
In addition to pricing, The Walkman Blog also mentions that the WH-1000XM6 may not be available in stores until mid-June, even if it officially launches later this month. The site adds that this availability could vary by region, meaning that the WH-1000XM6 might arrive in some important markets a bit sooner than others.
Design Changes
Furthermore, The Walkman Blog states that the WH-1000XM6 will feature a folding design, which marks a shift from its predecessor and brings back elements from the WH-1000XM4. It’s reported that Sony has made changes to the headband design between the two generations, while the ear cups remain the same. According to The Walkman Blog, they have supposedly seen images of the WH-1000XM6, although this remains speculative on our part. Regardless, we believe that the first photos of Sony’s upcoming headphones will be leaked soon.
Source:
Link
Tags: sony, WH-1000XM6, Wireless Headphones
May 2, 2025
NTT Sonority Launches nwm ONE Star Wars Open-Ear Headphones
Key Takeaways
1. NTT Sonority launched special nwm ONE Star Wars open-ear wireless headphones for the 50th anniversary of the first film, priced at 44,000 yen (approx. $300).
2. Preorders start on May 1, 2025, with official sales beginning on May 28, and the headphones will be featured at the Osaka Comic Convention from May 2-4.
3. The limited-edition headphones include sound effects from Star Wars films, such as TIE Fighter lasers and X-wing startup sounds.
4. Users can choose between two designs: an X-wing in white or a TIE Fighter in black, and the package features the Millennium Falcon and Death Star artwork.
5. The headphones have an open-ear design for safety, active noise-leakage suppression, dual drivers for surround sound, and technology for clear vocal communication during calls.
NTT Sonority has revealed special nwm ONE Star Wars open-ear wireless headphones to mark the 50th anniversary of the first film. These headphones are priced at 44,000 yen (approximately $300). Customers can start preordering on May 1, with the official sales commencing on May 28. Additionally, these headphones will be showcased at the Osaka Comic Convention 2025, taking place from May 2 to May 4.
Unique Features
The limited-edition nwm ONE headphones incorporate sound effects from the Star Wars films to enhance user experience. Users can hear iconic sounds like a TIE Fighter shooting its lasers and the startup of an X-wing Starfighter. The headphones display the Star Wars logo along with the choice of an X-wing (in white) or TIE Fighter (in black). Furthermore, a headphone stand featuring the Death Star is also provided. The packaging is visually striking, featuring the Millennium Falcon on the front and the Death Star on the back.
Enhanced Listening Experience
With an open-ear design, the nwm ONE headphones ensure that users remain aware of their surroundings while utilizing active noise-leakage suppression to avoid disturbing others. Each ear features dual drivers, consisting of a 35mm main unit and a 12 mm tweeter, which enables Sony 360 Reality Audio for a rich surround-sound experience. Furthermore, the dual MEMS Magic Focus Voice technology helps minimize background noise, allowing for clear vocal communication during outdoor calls.
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Link
Tags: nwm ONE, open-ear headphones, Star Wars
May 1, 2025
Sony WH-1000XM6 Price Leaked for New Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
Key Takeaways
1. Roland Quandt has indicated that the WH-1000XM6 headphones are expected to be released ‘soon’ after appearing on the MFi database.
2. No detailed specifications or images of the WH-1000XM6 have been shared yet.
3. The anticipated launch date for the WH-1000XM6 could be in the first or second week of May.
4. The WH-1000XM6 will likely be available in Black, Silver, and Midnight Blue color options.
5. A price increase of about 10% is expected for the WH-1000XM6 compared to the current WH-1000XM5 model.
Roland Quandt has shared his thoughts on the WH-1000XM6 after it appeared on Apple’s Made for iPhone/iPod/iPad (MFi) database this week. This MFi certification led us to suspect that more significant leaks might be on the horizon. Quandt suggests that this could indeed be true.
Awaiting Details on WH-1000XM6
Sadly, the well-known leaker hasn’t shared any images or detailed specifications for Sony’s eagerly awaited WH-1000XM5 successors (current price $398 on Amazon). He only hinted that the WH-1000XM6 will be released ‘soon’. While Quandt hasn’t clarified when this might happen, previous rumors have indicated that the launch could occur in the first or second week of May.
Color Options and Price Increase
According to Quandt, Sony plans to release the WH-1000XM6 in Black, Silver, and Midnight Blue, matching earlier leaks. Additionally, he mentions that the price for these high-end over-ear headphones will likely increase by around 10%. It remains uncertain whether Quandt refers to the current price of the WH-1000XM5 or its original price. If it’s the former, then the new WH-1000XM6 might retail for about €339 in Europe. On the other hand, an increase from the original MSRP of the WH-1000XM5 could mean a price closer to €460 for the WH-1000XM6.
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Link
Tags: Roland Quandt, sony, WH-1000XM6
May 1, 2025
Shokz Launches OpenDots ONE: Clip-On Earbuds for Sports
Key Takeaways
1. Open-Ear Design: The OpenDots ONE earbuds allow users to stay aware of their surroundings, making them ideal for sports and physical activities.
2. Sound Quality: Equipped with Bassphere technology and Dolby Audio, these earbuds deliver robust sound and customizable sound options.
3. Comfort and Fit: The earbuds use flexible JointArc bands and silicone touch points for a secure and comfortable fit during workouts, while preventing earwax build-up.
4. Smart Features: They automatically recognize which ear they are in, support touch controls, and can connect to two audio sources simultaneously.
5. Battery Life and Durability: With a 10-hour battery life (40 hours with the charging case) and an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, they are designed for active use.
Shokz has unveiled their new OpenDots ONE earbuds designed specifically for sports and physical activities. The unique open-ear structure lets users stay aware of their surroundings, including hearing their teammates at all times. These earbuds feature Bassphere technology with dual drivers that deliver robust sound, further enhanced by Dolby Audio. Priced at $199.95, the OpenDots ONE can be found on the Shokz store on Amazon, available in both grey and black colors.
Comfort and Fit
To ensure they stay in place during rigorous workouts, the earbuds utilize JointArc nickel-titanium bands. These bands are flexible yet secure, comfortably resting on the outer ear. Additionally, silicone-covered touch points contribute to a better fit and grip. The open-ear format also prevents issues like earwax build-up and the discomfort associated with inserting devices into the ear canals, a common drawback of in-ear styles.
Sound Quality and Noise Management
The Dolby Audio integrated into the earbuds offers four equalizer presets, alongside two customizable options for personalized sound. Thanks to the DirectPitch technology, the open-ear design minimizes sound leakage, ensuring that nearby individuals aren’t disturbed. Moreover, the AI-driven beamforming microphones effectively reduce ambient noise, making calls clearer even in outdoor settings.
Smart Features and Specifications
These clip-on earbuds automatically recognize which ear they are placed on, seamlessly switching audio channels as needed. Users can control the earbuds via touch and connect to two audio sources simultaneously. Weighing just 0.23 oz. (6.5 g) each and 1.8 oz. (52 g) with the charging case, the lightweight OpenDots ONE are also rated IP54, making them resistant to dust and water. The earbuds boast a 10-hour battery life, extending to 40 hours with the charging case. A quick 10-minute charge provides an additional two hours of use, while a complete charge takes only one hour.
Source:
Link
Tags: Open-ear earbuds