Category: Audio

March 30, 2025

Cooler Master Launches Indiegogo for Throne X Vibrating Stool

Key Takeaways

1. Product Overview: The Throne X is an immersive stool that vibrates in response to music, designed for musicians and those wanting to feel music, including individuals with hearing impairments and gamers.

2. Pricing and Discount: The early bird price is $499, offering a 27% discount from the regular price of $600.

3. Modes of Operation: It features three modes – real-time mode for personal performance, audio mode for band sounds, and metronome mode for timing assistance.

4. Compatibility and Specifications: The stool is compatible with standard PA systems, has multiple audio inputs/outputs, adjustable height, supports users up to 300 lbs, and has a battery life of up to ten hours.

5. Portability: Weighing 34.8 lbs, the Throne X is designed for easy transportation and usability in various settings.

Cooler Master has kicked off an Indiegogo campaign for its exciting Throne X immersive stool, which vibrates in response to music. This product is mainly designed for musicians, but it’s also great for anyone who wants to feel the rhythm of the music while sitting, including individuals with hearing impairments or gamers enjoying rhythm games like Persona 5 (available on Amazon). The early bird cost is set at $499, which is a 27% discount from the regular price of $600.

Modes of Operation

The Throne X comes with three different modes that can be chosen using a wired controller. In real-time mode, the stool vibrates based on the user’s own performance. Meanwhile, in audio mode, it vibrates to the sounds made by other band members. The metronome mode assists performers in keeping their timing steady.

For those who struggle with maintaining a consistent tempo, there are additional tools available, like clip-on metronomes (check this one on Amazon) or tuner metronomes (also found on Amazon).

Compatibility and Specifications

The Throne X works well with standard PA systems and includes jacks for 3.5 mm aux, 6.3 mm aux, and 6.3 mm dynamic microphone inputs, as well as a 3.5 mm headphone output. It vibrates within a frequency range of 20 Hz to 200 Hz.

This stool weighs 34.8 lbs. (15.8 kg) and can accommodate users with a weight of up to 300 lbs. (136 kg). The height is adjustable, ranging from 22.28 to 26.77 in. (56.6 to 68 cm). Its internal 6,400 mAh battery allows for up to ten hours of use and can be fully recharged in five hours.

Cooler Master Introduces the Throne X: A Revolutionary Tool for Musicians Looking for Perfect Timing

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Tags: Cooler Master
March 29, 2025

Audio-Technica Launches Limited Star Wars Earbuds for $179

Key Takeaways

1. Star Wars Editions: The ATH-CKS50TW2 earbuds are available in four Star Wars-themed designs: R2-D2, Grogu, The Mandalorian, and Darth Vader, featuring unique character-specific sound effects.

2. Battery Life and Charging: The earbuds offer up to 25 hours of playtime, with an additional 40 hours from the charging case. A quick 5-minute charge provides 90 minutes of listening time.

3. Advanced Features: They include hybrid noise-canceling, ambiance control, and utilize 9 mm drivers for enhanced bass. They also support Bluetooth LE Audio and multipoint pairing.

4. App Integration: The A-T Connect app provides features like low latency mode, equalizer presets, and a headphone locator, along with support for Siri and Google Assistant.

5. Pricing & Launch: Priced at $179, the earbuds will be available for pre-order on April 21 and officially launch on May 4, 2025, coinciding with Star Wars Day.

Audio-Technica has unveiled its ATH-CKS50TW2 earbuds, which first appeared at CES 2025 in Black and Beige. They now come in four exciting new Star Wars-themed designs: R2-D2, Grogu, The Mandalorian, and Darth Vader. These editions not only look great but also include unique sound effects linked to the characters.

Unique Sound Effects

The Darth Vader version, for instance, plays breathing sounds when connecting, lightsaber sounds when the battery is high, and different alerts for low battery, disconnection, and switching between noise-canceling and transparency modes. Meanwhile, the R2-D2 edition uses the character’s iconic beeps and whistles for similar notifications.

Impressive Features

All Star Wars editions come with hybrid noise-canceling, ambiance control, and can last up to 25 hours of playtime (plus an additional 40 hours with the charging case). A quick 5-minute charge grants 90 minutes of listening. The earbuds take 2.5 hours to charge, while the case needs 4 hours via USB and 7.5 hours for wireless charging.

Specifications and App Integration

These earbuds have a Magnetic Switch for power saving when connected, 9 mm drivers for better bass, and dual MEMS mics with beamforming technology. They support Bluetooth LE Audio with the LC3 codec, multipoint pairing, and are compatible with Qi wireless charging. Hybrid ear tips ensure a snug fit.

The A-T Connect app enhances the user experience with features like low latency mode, equalizer presets, and a headphone locator. The low latency mode helps sync audio and video better. A customizable button is available for managing playback, calls, and voice assistance. Soundscape functionality offers nature sounds, noise masking, and meditation sounds. Both Siri and Google Assistant are supported, and the earbuds have an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance.

Pricing & Availability

These Star Wars-themed ATH-CKS50TW2 earbuds are priced at $179, which is a $30 increase compared to the standard models. Pre-orders will start on April 21, with a launch date set for May 4, coinciding with Star Wars Day. They will also be available early at Star Wars Celebration Japan from April 18–20, 2025.

Tags: ATH-CKS50TW2, Audio Technica, Star Wars Edition
March 29, 2025

Soundcore AeroClip: Comfortable Open-Ear Clip-On Earbuds

Key Takeaways

1. Innovative Design: The AeroClip features a flexible open-ring connector for a secure fit, with options for smaller ears and a smaller acoustic chamber to reduce in-ear pressure.

2. Superior Sound Quality: It includes 12mm titanium-coated drivers for clear sound and enhanced bass, with customizable sound settings via the Soundcore app.

3. User-Friendly Features: Full-Surface Tap Control for easy management, voice command support for Google Assistant and Siri, and a battery life of 8 hours per earbud, totaling 32 hours with the charging case.

4. Quick Charging: A 10-minute charge provides an additional 3 hours of listening time, making it convenient for on-the-go use.

5. Pricing & Availability: The AeroClip is priced at $129.99 and available in colors like Midnight, Champagne Mist, and Rosy Brown on Amazon.com and Soundcore.com.

Soundcore, the audio division of Anker Innovations, has launched the AeroClip, a novel open-ear, clip-on earbud that focuses on long-lasting comfort and heightened awareness of one’s environment. Unlike conventional noise-canceling earbuds, the AeroClip enables users to remain attentive to what’s happening around them.

Innovative Design

These earbuds incorporate a flexible open-ring connector that securely attaches to the cartilage of the ear. Inside the connector, there is a titanium wire that guarantees a snug fit. For users with smaller ears, additional grips are provided to ensure a tighter hold. When compared to the C30i model, AeroClip has an acoustic chamber that is 37% smaller, which helps in minimizing in-ear pressure and discomfort. Its ergonomic design is intended to provide a stable and comfortable experience, making it suitable for activities like walking, running, or cycling.

Superior Sound Quality

Equipped with 12mm titanium-coated drivers, the earbuds deliver crystal-clear sound, robust bass, and well-balanced audio. AI algorithms work to enhance low frequencies in real time, improving bass performance. Users can modify sound settings via the Soundcore app, which is accessible on both Android and iOS devices.

User-Friendly Features

The Full-Surface Tap Control allows for easy management of music, calls, podcasts, and navigation with Google Maps. Voice commands can be utilized through Google Assistant and Siri. The battery lasts 8 hours per earbud at 50% volume, and with the charging case, total playtime can reach up to 32 hours. A quick 10-minute charge offers an additional 3 hours of listening time. Other noteworthy features include IPX4 water resistance, the ability to connect to two devices simultaneously, and four beamforming microphones that enhance call clarity.

Pricing & Availability

The Soundcore AeroClip is currently available in the U.S. in colors such as Midnight, Champagne Mist, and Rosy Brown. It is priced at $129.99 on Amazon.com and Soundcore.com.

Tags: Open-ear earbuds, Soundcore AeroClip
March 29, 2025

Audio-Technica Introduces Star Wars-Themed Earbuds for Fans

Key Takeaways

1. New Color Options: The ATH-CKS50TW2 earbuds now come in four Star Wars-themed colors inspired by R2-D2, Grogu, The Mandalorian, and Darth Vader, alongside the original Black and Beige colors.

2. Character Sound Effects: Each Star Wars edition features unique sound effects related to its character, such as Darth Vader’s breathing and lightsaber sounds during various functions like connection and notifications.

3. Pricing and Release: The Star Wars editions are priced at $179, $30 more than the standard model, with pre-orders starting on April 21, 2025, and official release on May 4, 2025 (Star Wars Day).

4. Battery Life and Charging: The earbuds offer impressive battery life of up to 25 hours on a single charge, with a total of 65 hours using the charging case. Fast charging capabilities allow for a quick 5-minute charge for up to 90 minutes of playtime.

5. Magnetic Switch Technology: A unique feature allows users to turn off the earbuds without returning them to the charging case, differing from most earbuds that require this action to power down.

Back at CES 2025, Audio-Technica revealed a new set of earbuds named the ATH-CKS50TW2. Initially offered in Black and Beige, they have recently introduced four additional color choices inspired by Star Wars.

Colorful Inspirations

These new colors are themed around R2-D2, Grogu, The Mandalorian, and Darth Vader. It’s not only the appearance of the earbuds and their packaging that reflect these characters, but their functionalities as well. Each of the four designs includes unique sound effects that relate to the characters.

For example, the Darth Vader version features sound effects that replicate his iconic breathing when the earbuds connect. There are also sounds that imitate the hum of a lightsaber, plus notifications for low battery and disconnection. Specific sounds are even triggered when the noise cancelling or transparency modes are turned on.

Pricing and Availability

The Audio-Technica ATH-CKS50TW2 Star Wars editions are priced at $179, which is $30 more than the regular models. Pre-orders will start on April 21, leading up to their official release on May 4, 2025, known as Star Wars Day. Moreover, they will be up for grabs at Star Wars Celebration Japan from April 18 to April 20, 2025.

The standard ATH-CKS50TW2 earbuds, available on Amazon for $149.00, are designed as in-ear models with silicone tips for a snug fit. They are equipped with 9mm drivers and feature hybrid noise cancellation. With an IP55 rating, they are resistant to dust and water. Additionally, they support Bluetooth multipoint and Bluetooth LE, and they come with a companion app for customizing features like ANC, EQ, and low-latency settings.

Unique Features

A standout feature of these earbuds is the proprietary Magnetic Switch technology, allowing users to turn them off without placing them back in the charging case, which is quite different from most other earbuds that require this action to power down.

The battery life of the Audio-Technica ATH-CKS50TW2 earbuds is also noteworthy, surpassing many competitors. They can last up to 25 hours on a single charge (15 hours with ANC enabled), and with the charging case, they can provide an extra 40 hours (or 25 hours with ANC) for a total of 65 hours (or 40 hours). Fast charging is supported as well, with a quick 5-minute charge offering up to 90 minutes of playtime. The charging case allows for both USB-C wired charging and Qi wireless charging.

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Tags: ATH-CKS50TW2, Audio Technica, Star Wars Edition
March 29, 2025

Anker Soundcore AeroClip Wireless Headphones Now Available

Key Takeaways

1. The Soundcore AeroClip headphones are priced at $129 and are primarily available on Amazon US, with limited availability in Europe.
2. They feature an open-ear design and include four microphones to reduce background noise during calls, but do not have active noise cancellation.
3. The headphones offer a battery life of 8 hours, extendable to 32 hours with the charging case.
4. They have an IPX4 rating, making them resistant to sweat and water.
5. The PearlClip Pro is a more affordable alternative at $39, offering a similar design.

The Soundcore AeroClip are the latest headphones from Anker, now available on Amazon US for $129. Sadly, they aren’t widely sold in several European nations, so people there might need to import them using a Chinese marketplace like Banggood. Be aware that this could lead to extra import fees or taxes, and there might be issues with warranty claims.

Design and Features

The Soundcore AeroClip features open-ear design, meaning they don’t go deep into the ear canal but instead wrap around the outer ear. With four microphones built-in, these headphones aim to minimize annoying background noise when you’re on a call. They house 12mm drivers but lack active noise cancellation capabilities.

Battery and Durability

The official battery life is stated to be 8 hours, but it can be increased by another 24 hours thanks to the charging case that comes with it. Anker also boasts an IPX4 rating, indicating these headphones are resistant to sweat and water. If you are looking for alternatives, the PearlClip Pro offers a similar design and is much more affordable at only $39 on Amazon.

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Tags: Anker, open-ear headphones, Soundcore AeroClip
March 28, 2025

WhatsApp Status Update: Songs Now Available Worldwide

Key Takeaways

1. Users can now add music clips to their WhatsApp Status updates.
2. Music clips can be up to 15 seconds for photos and 60 seconds for videos.
3. A music note icon allows users to select songs from a large library for their Status.
4. Status updates will be securely encrypted, ensuring only contacts can see the shared songs.
5. This feature is rolling out globally and aims to enhance self-expression on WhatsApp, similar to Instagram Stories.

Over the upcoming weeks, users of WhatsApp will get the chance to add music clips to their status updates. The messaging app shared this news on its blog, highlighting that WhatsApp Status is designed for sharing special moments with loved ones and friends. Now, users can enhance their updates with a fitting soundtrack. This new feature is sure to be an enjoyable addition for those who frequently update their WhatsApp Status.

A New Way to Express Yourself

WhatsApp Status, much like Instagram Stories, is a temporary way to share updates with family and friends that vanishes after 24 hours. Previously, users could only post photos, videos, text, and GIFs in their WhatsApp Status, which appear in the Updates section for their contacts. With the latest update, users can now enrich these posts with music clips lasting up to 15 seconds for photos and 60 seconds for videos.

Music at Your Fingertips

While creating a Status, users will notice a music note icon at the top of the screen. This feature allows them to select a song from a huge library, pick a specific section of the song, and add it to their Status update. According to WhatsApp, the Status will be securely encrypted from end to end, meaning that only contacts can see which song has been shared, and WhatsApp itself won’t have access to this information.

This update has begun to roll out worldwide, and most users should expect to see the feature on their devices in the coming weeks. With this enhancement, Meta appears to be bringing WhatsApp closer to Instagram, which also lets users incorporate music into their profiles and updates.

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Tags: WhatsApp
March 28, 2025

Nu Republic Cyberstud Punk TWS Earbuds: 70 Hours Playback, Dual-Mic ENC

Key Takeaways

1. Stylish Design: The Cyberstud Punk True Wireless Earbuds feature a punk style with a removable metal chain and a matte-black industrial finish.

2. Impressive Battery Life: Users can enjoy up to 70 hours of total playtime, with 8 hours on a single charge and quick USB-C fast charging for 200 minutes of playback after just 10 minutes of charging.

3. Enhanced Gaming Experience: A special gaming mode reduces latency to 40ms, ensuring audio synchronization, while Bluetooth 5.3 provides stable connectivity.

4. Advanced Sound Features: The earbuds utilize 13mm dynamic drivers with Xbass technology for deep bass and balanced mids, along with dual-mic Environmental Noise Cancellation for improved call quality.

5. Affordable Pricing: Priced at INR 1,599, the earbuds come with a 6-month warranty and are available for purchase on Nu Republic’s official website.

Nu Republic has introduced the Cyberstud Punk True Wireless Earbuds, which blend a striking punk style with effective sound performance. These earbuds boast a removable metal chain, a matte-black finish inspired by industrial designs, and a one-handed flip-case for easy access. Their splash and sweat resistance make them suitable for active lifestyles.

Sound Quality and Features

The audio is powered by 13mm dynamic drivers featuring Xbass technology that emphasizes deep bass and well-balanced mids. Users can enjoy up to 70 hours of total playtime, with 8 hours available per charge and additional time from the case. The USB-C fast charging allows for 200 minutes of playback after just a 10-minute charge.

Gaming and Connectivity

For gamers, a special mode reduces latency to 40ms, ensuring synchronized audio. Bluetooth 5.3 provides stable connectivity within a 10-meter range. The dual-mic Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) enhances call quality by filtering out background sounds. Touch controls allow users to manage playback, phone calls, and voice assistants like Siri and Google, while auto-pairing makes setup easy.

Pricing and Availability

The Cyberstud Punk True Wireless Earbuds are priced at INR 1,599 and come with a 6-month warranty. They are available for purchase on Nu Republic’s official website.

In addition, if you’re in search of gaming headphones, Nu Republic has also launched the Starboy 6 wireless headphones. These headphones feature gamer-themed aesthetics, including LED lights, 40mm neodymium drivers, 42ms latency in gaming mode, and Environmental Noise Cancellation for clear calls. You can also read our review of the Nu Republic Starboy 6 headphones.

Tags: Nu Republic
March 28, 2025

Focal Bathys MG Headphones: aptX Adaptive, USB-DAC, Magnesium Drivers

Key Takeaways

1. The Focal Bathys MG features a 40mm magnesium driver, delivering sound frequencies from 10Hz to 22kHz with low distortion below 0.2%.
2. Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.2, 3.5mm AUX, and USB-C, with the USB-C enabling 24-bit audio processing at 192kHz.
3. The headphones offer up to 30 hours of battery life with Bluetooth and 35-40 hours with a wired connection, along with advanced noise-cancelling features.
4. Additional features include Google Fast Pair, Bluetooth Multipoint, and automatic music pause when removed.
5. The Focal Bathys MG are set to launch in May at a price of €1,199.

Positioned as a pricier option compared to the previous Focal Bathys, the latest Focal Bathys MG aim to wow listeners with their exceptional audio quality. Focal has introduced a newly crafted magnesium driver measuring 40mm, capable of delivering sound frequencies ranging from 10Hz to 22kHz, with total harmonic distortion kept below 0.2 percent.

Connectivity Options

The Bathys MG come equipped with Bluetooth 5.2 that supports SBC, AAC, and Qualcomm aptX Adaptive codecs. Alternatively, users can connect through a provided 3.5mm AUX or USB-C cable. When using the USB-C connection, the Focal headphones activate a unique DAC mode, allowing for music processing up to 24-bit at 192kHz, though it should be noted that the microphones are inactive in this setting. Additionally, the equalizer in the related smartphone app allows users to tailor audio settings according to their taste.

Battery Life and Features

Focal claims a battery lifespan of as much as 30 hours when using Bluetooth wirelessly, while the wired connection can last between 35 to 40 hours. Equipped with eight microphones, the noise-cancelling and transparency features are reported to be more advanced than prior models. Plus, the Focal Bathys MG weigh in at 12.3 oz and offer several handy functionalities, such as Google Fast Pair, Bluetooth Multipoint, and the capability to automatically pause music when the headphones are removed.

Release Information

The Focal Bathys MG are anticipated to launch in May. Initial European retailers have begun to list the headphones at a price of €1,199. For further details regarding the features and specifications, interested individuals can visit the official product webpage.

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Tags: Bluetooth Headphones, Noise Cancellation
March 27, 2025

Music-Sharing Pioneer Sold for $207 Million: A Historic Deal

Key Takeaways

1. Napster revolutionized music consumption in 1999 through peer-to-peer sharing, changing how people accessed music.
2. The service sparked important discussions in the music industry about digital content sharing, despite its shutdown in 2001 due to legal issues.
3. The Napster brand has been sold to Infinite Reality, which aims to innovate in the streaming space and explore concepts like the metaverse.
4. The new vision for Napster includes creating immersive environments for music communities, connecting artists, influencers, and fans.
5. The reimagined Napster is expected to be a legally compliant platform, contrasting with its original disruptive nature.

In 1999, the landscape of music was quite different from what it is today. People had to pull out their cassette players or get a new Discman to enjoy their favorite tunes. Then came Napster, which completely transformed the way music was consumed. This free service was a pioneer in peer-to-peer music sharing and streaming, long before platforms like iTunes and Spotify became popular.

The Impact on the Music Industry

Although the service was short-lived, shutting down in 2001 due to legal issues, it sparked a much-needed discussion about digital content sharing that music labels were hesitant to have. Napster shook the music industry from its slumber, forcing it to confront the inevitable shift towards digital media.

New Beginnings for Napster

Recently, the Napster brand was sold to Infinite Reality, a tech company that focuses on “Immersive 3D interfaces” and other trendy concepts like AI and the metaverse.

John Acunto, the company’s CEO, shared with CNBC that they aim to leverage the Napster name in the “streaming space” to “create spaces for music.” Napster still holds a significant number of licenses for various music tracks.

A New Vision for the Future

Acunto mentioned that this new iteration of Napster will “disrupt legally” and create “crazy environments that are really only limited by their imaginations.” The goal is to build a shared space in the metaverse where influencers, artists, and fans can form communities around the music they love.

He referred to it as “Clubhouse times a trillion,” suggesting that this incarnation of Napster will be a more controlled entity, ironically restrained by the very corporations it once motivated to “disrupt.”

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Tags: Metaverse, streaming
March 26, 2025

Oppo Enco Free4: Affordable ANC Earbuds with Dynaudio Tuning

Key Takeaways

1. Oppo is set to launch new audio accessories, likely the Free3 earbuds or a Lite version of the Enco X3s.
2. The earbuds may feature a specialized “Co-Created with Dynaudio” equalizer setting for enhanced sound quality.
3. Anticipated features include AI Translation and active noise cancellation (ANC) to compete with flagship models.
4. The expected price is around 500 yuan (~$69), potentially outperforming more expensive earbuds on the market.
5. The official announcement is scheduled for April 10, 2025, alongside the Find X8 Ultra and X8S series.

Oppo is gearing up to unveil a new set of audio accessories, which are likely to be the next version of the Free3 earbuds. There’s also a chance they may be branded as the Lite variant of the high-end Enco X3s, as per the reliable tipster, Digital Chat Station.

Feature Highlights

These earbuds are expected to carry the brand’s premium co-branding, even though they are part of the sub-flagship line. This could show up as a specialized “Co-Created with Dynaudio” equalizer setting for the earbuds rather than just a logo on the plastic charging case.

New Technologies

The anticipated “Free4” earbuds may introduce an innovative AI Translation function and active noise cancellation (ANC), which could rival the stellar performance of the flagship X3s.

While their sound quality might not match the highest levels, they are expected to stay competitive within the ~500 yuan (~$69) pricing bracket of their predecessors. In fact, they could outperform other earbuds currently priced at around double that amount, such as the OnePlus Buds 3 that are on sale on Amazon.

Launch Date

The Oppo Free4 Dynaudio Edition is expected to be announced alongside the Find X8 Ultra and X8S series on April 10, 2025, marking a significant release for the brand.

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Tags: Active Noise Cancellation, Enco X3