Category: Audio

March 26, 2025

Sharp Unveils New Soundbars with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Technology

Key Takeaways

1. Sharp is launching two new soundbars, HT-SBW53121 and HT-SBW55121, under the Q series, featuring modern technology and stylish design.
2. The HT-SBW53121 has a 3.1.2 channel setup, while the HT-SBW55121 features a 5.1.2 configuration, both supporting Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for enhanced sound.
3. The soundbars include upward-firing speakers (HT-SBW53121) and built-in side speakers (HT-SBW55121) for a wider soundstage, developed in collaboration with Devialet.
4. Optional HT-SPR52021 rear speakers can upgrade the systems to 5.1.4 and 7.1.4 configurations respectively, and connect wirelessly.
5. The products will be available in Europe starting April 2025, with prices set at €399 for HT-SBW53121, €549 for HT-SBW55121, and €239 for the rear speakers.

Sharp has announced the launch date for a couple of new soundbars along with optional rear speakers. The soundbars are named Sharp HT-SBW53121 and HT-SBW55121, while the additional speakers carry the model number HT-SPR52021. All of these products fall under the new Sharp Q series, which aims to blend cutting-edge technology with stylish design at affordable prices.

Soundbar Features

The standout products in this new collection are the two Sharp Q soundbars. The HT-SBW53121 comes with a 3.1.2 channel setup, whereas the more advanced HT-SBW55121 boasts a 5.1.2 configuration. Both models are compatible with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, allowing them to deliver an engaging 3D surround sound experience.

To achieve this, the Sharp HT-SBW53121 is designed with two upward-firing speakers, while the Sharp HT-SBW55121 includes built-in side speakers to create a broader soundstage. These two new soundbars have been precisely adjusted in partnership with acoustic experts from Devialet.

Expandable Options

Additionally, both Sharp soundbars can be enhanced with the HT-SPR52021 rear speakers. This upgrade transforms the HT-SBW53121 into a full 5.1.4-channel surround system, and the HT-SBW55121 can be improved to a 7.1.4 setup. The rear speakers connect wirelessly, eliminating the need for any audio cables.

According to the Japanese company, the new Sharp Q soundbars and their optional speakers will be available in the European market starting April 2025, offered in two color options: Black/Blue and Gray/Silver. The recommended retail price for the smaller HT-SBW53121 soundbar is €399, while the larger HT-SBW55121 is priced at €549. The HT-SPR52021 rear speakers will retail for €239.
March 26, 2025

JBL Partybox Encore 2 Launches in China: 100W Sound & Bass

Key Takeaways

1. Powerful Sound Output: The PartyBox Encore 2 delivers 100W RMS with a 135mm subwoofer and two 25mm tweeters, providing deep bass and clear audio across a wide frequency range (40Hz to 20kHz).

2. Improved Wireless Features: It includes Bluetooth 5.4, LE Audio support, and Auracast, allowing multiple speakers to connect wirelessly for enhanced sound experiences.

3. Portability and Durability: Weighing 6.4kg with a silicone handle and an IPX4 rating, the speaker is easy to carry and resistant to splashes, making it ideal for outdoor use.

4. Long Battery Life: The built-in 4722mAh battery offers up to 15 hours of playtime and charges fully in under 3.5 hours, with additional wireless microphones lasting 10 hours on a charge.

5. Customizable Design: The Encore 2 features an eye-catching design with an embossed JBL logo and customizable “angel-eye” light rings that can be controlled via the JBL PartyBox app.

JBL has introduced its newest portable party speaker, the PartyBox Encore 2, in China. It’s currently available on JD.com for a price of 3,699 yuan ($510), but there’s a special pre-sale deal that brings the cost down to 3,099 yuan ($427).

Specifications of the PartyBox Encore 2

The Encore 2 is designed to be the highlight of any gathering, whether it’s inside or outdoors. It delivers a powerful 100W RMS output, thanks to a 135mm long-throw subwoofer and two 25mm dome tweeters. Covering a frequency range from 40Hz to 20kHz, it ensures deep bass that fills the room, along with clear highs and balanced mids.

Enhanced Wireless Capabilities

Wireless functionality has been improved, featuring Bluetooth 5.4 and LE Audio support. Additionally, JBL introduces Auracast, which allows users to connect multiple speakers wirelessly for a more expansive sound experience during events.

Easy to Carry and Durable

The Encore 2 is clearly made for portability. Weighing just 6.4kg and designed with rounded edges and a silicone handle, it resembles a piece of luggage more than a speaker, making it simple to take from your backyard to the beach. Plus, with an IPX4 rating, it can handle splashes and light rain without interrupting the music.

The integrated 4722mAh battery offers up to 15 hours of playtime and can be fully charged in less than 3.5 hours. JBL also provides two wireless microphones with the speaker, each capable of lasting up to 10 hours on a single charge. They connect instantly and feature individual knobs for adjusting volume easily, making them ideal for karaoke or hosting events.

Features for Music Lovers

For musicians, there’s a guitar input with its own gain control available. And for those who prefer wired connections, an AUX port is also included on the back.

Striking Design

In terms of looks, the Encore 2 stands out. Its front grille is adorned with an embossed JBL soundwave logo, and the “angel-eye” light rings can be modified using the JBL PartyBox app, allowing you to synchronize lighting effects and sound profiles to fit the atmosphere.

Source:
Link

Tags: JBL, portable speaker
March 26, 2025

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Now Just $99 in Limited-Time Offer

Key Takeaways

1. Samsung has reduced the price of Galaxy Buds 3 by $80, making them available for $99 instead of $179.
2. The Buds 3 feature IP57 water and dust resistance, active Noise Cancellation, and a battery life of 6 hours (30 hours with the case).
3. The Galaxy Buds FE are also on sale for $79 but lack key features like ANC and have lower water resistance.
4. The promotion offers a choice between the Buds 3’s premium features and the more affordable Buds FE for budget shoppers.
5. Stock levels are low, especially for the white variant, suggesting that interested buyers should act quickly.

Samsung has introduced a remarkable discount on its high-end Galaxy Buds 3, reducing the price by $80 to align with the more affordable Buds FE model. The Buds 3 can now be purchased for only $99, down from its regular price of $179. At the moment, only the silver variant is in stock, as the white option has sold out—likely due to the increased interest generated by the sale.

Key Differences Between Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds FE

The Galaxy Buds 3 are a notable advancement compared to the budget-friendly Buds FE. They come with an IP57 rating for dust and water resistance, a significant upgrade from the Buds FE’s basic IPX2 level. The active Noise Cancellation feature provides excellent audio isolation, while the battery life lasts for 6 hours per charge (5 hours if ANC is activated) and totals 30 hours with the charging case. Additionally, advanced features like the AI-driven Adaptive Equalizer, Interpreter Mode, and smooth device switching within the Galaxy ecosystem further validate their initial premium status.

Pricing Options for Budget Shoppers

For those looking for the lowest possible price, Samsung is also selling the Galaxy Buds FE at a reduced price of $79, down from $99. However, this model lacks some important features, including ANC and has much weaker water resistance than the Buds 3.

This ongoing promotion provides a clear decision for users within the Galaxy ecosystem: choose the discounted Buds 3 for near-flagship capabilities at a more accessible price, or stick with the Buds FE to save money while giving up some premium attributes. Importantly, this offer may not be around for long, as stock levels are showing signs of running low. Samsung hasn’t set an official end date for this deal, but the white models selling out suggests that interested buyers should make their move quickly.

Exceptional Value in the Wireless Earbud Market

This promotion represents one of the best value offers we’ve seen for Samsung’s audio products, effectively making mid-range performance available to budget-conscious consumers. At this pricing, the Buds 3 stand out as an exceptional deal in the wireless earbud space.

Tags: discount, Galaxy Buds 3, Samsung
March 26, 2025

Sony WF-C710N Earbuds: AI Call Clarity & Noise Cancellation for $119.99

Key Takeaways

1. Sony has launched the WF-C710N mid-range wireless earbuds, available for pre-order in four colors: Glass Blue, Pink, White, and Black.
2. Key features include Dual Noise Sensor technology, customizable ambient sound settings, and Adaptive Sound Control for optimized audio based on location and activity.
3. The earbuds are equipped with 5mm drivers, Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE), and EQ Custom for personalized sound profiles.
4. They offer up to 30 hours of battery life with quick charging options and include touch controls, Instant Pause/Play, and IPX4 water resistance.
5. The WF-C710N is priced at $119.99 USD ($169.99 CAD) and can be pre-ordered through Sony’s website, Amazon, and select retailers.

Sony Electronics Inc. has launched its latest mid-range wireless earbuds, the WF-C710N. These earbuds are now available for pre-order and come in four stylish colors: Glass Blue, Pink, White, and Black. They are designed to offer essential features like noise cancellation, an extended battery life, and high-quality call clarity, all packed in a compact form.

Key Features

The WF-C710N earbuds utilize Dual Noise Sensor technology, featuring two microphones that help minimize background noise. Users can customize the ambient sound settings via the Sony Sound Connect app, which provides 20 adjustable levels or allows for voice passthrough. The Adaptive Sound Control automatically alters audio settings based on the user’s location and activity, remembering frequently visited spots such as offices or gyms. Additionally, the AI-driven Precise Voice Pickup Technology, developed using over 500 million voice samples, enhances speech isolation and reduces unwanted noise during calls.

Design and Performance

Each earbud is outfitted with a 5mm driver and includes support for the Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE), which enhances the quality of compressed audio files. The app also features EQ Custom, enabling users to tailor sound profiles to their liking. Weighing very little, the WF-C710N boasts an IPX4 water-resistant design. The earbuds come with a cylindrical case and incorporate touch controls for music playback, calls, and volume adjustments. When used with the charging case, these earbuds can provide up to 30 hours of total battery life. A quick five-minute charge is enough for 60 minutes of playback. Other handy features include Instant Pause/Play and multipoint Bluetooth connectivity.

Pricing and Availability

You can pre-order the WF-C710N through Sony’s website, Amazon, and select authorized retailers. The price is set at $119.99 USD ($169.99 CAD).

Source:
Link

Tags: sony, WF-C710N, wireless earbuds
March 26, 2025

Sony WH-CH720N and WH-CH520 Headphones in New Pastel Colors

Key Takeaways

1. Sony has added new color options for the WH-CH720N and WH-CH520 headphones, including pastel pink and yellow (WH-CH520), plus an exclusive espresso color for Canada.
2. The WH-CH720N features active noise cancellation, DSEE technology, and a battery life of up to 50 hours without noise cancellation.
3. The WH-CH720N includes features like Precise Voice Pickup, physical controls on ear cups, and supports Bluetooth 5.2 with dual-device connectivity.
4. The WH-CH520 is designed as an on-ear headphone with a compact design, featuring a built-in microphone and customizable audio settings via the Sony Headphones app.
5. Pricing for the WH-CH720N is $149.99 USD ($249.99 CAD), while the WH-CH520 is priced at $59.99 USD ($99.99 CAD), with options available for pre-order.

Sony has introduced new color choices for its WH-CH720N and WH-CH520 wireless headphones. Both models now feature a pastel pink option, while the WH-CH520 gets an additional yellow color. In Canada, there will also be an espresso color available. This change is part of Sony’s initiative to provide more aesthetic variety in its current product range.

WH-CH720N: Specs and Features

The WH-CH720N is an over-ear wireless headphone equipped with active noise cancellation powered by the Sony V1 processor. It comes with 30mm dynamic drivers and utilizes DSEE technology to enhance the sound quality of compressed audio. The ambient sound mode lets in some outside noise, and the voice mode simplifies conversations without needing to take off the headphones. Adaptive sound control modifies noise cancellation and audio based on what the user is doing and their environment.

WH-CH720N Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones in Pink

These headphones are designed with Precise Voice Pickup for clearer voice quality during calls. Users can control playback, volume, and noise cancellation with physical buttons located on the ear cups. They support Bluetooth 5.2, Google Fast Pair, and can connect to two devices simultaneously. Battery life lasts up to 50 hours without noise cancellation and 35 hours with it. Fast charging is also available.

WH-CH520: Specs and Features

The WH-CH520 is an on-ear wireless headphone featuring a compact design, an adjustable headband, and soft ear pads. It also includes 30mm drivers and DSEE technology. Users can customize audio settings via the Sony Headphones app. A built-in microphone enables hands-free calling and voice assistant functionality.

Battery life reaches up to 50 hours. Connectivity options feature Bluetooth 5.2 with Swift Pair, Google Fast Pair, and dual-device capability.

Availability and Pricing

The WH-CH720N is priced at $149.99 USD ($249.99 CAD) and is available for pre-order in pink and other previously offered colors through Sony Electronics, Amazon, and authorized sellers.

The WH-CH520 is available for $59.99 USD ($99.99 CAD), and can be pre-ordered in pink, yellow, and existing color choices. The espresso variant will be exclusive to Canada.

Tags: Sony WH-CH520, Sony WH-CH720N, Wireless Headphones
March 26, 2025

Sony WF-C710N Earbuds: New Design, Touch Controls, Longer Battery Life

Key Takeaways

1. Redesigned Look: The WF-C710N earbuds feature a new design, replacing physical buttons with touch controls and revamping the mesh design for a fresh appearance.

2. Enhanced Functionality: The earbuds include dual microphones for better noise cancellation, in-ear detection for automatic playback, and touch controls for music and voice assistant features.

3. Improved Battery Life: Offers up to 8.5 hours of battery with noise cancellation, 12 hours without, and a total of 30 hours with the charging case, which charges via USB-C.

4. Water Resistance and Compatibility: With an IPX4 rating, these earbuds are water-resistant and support various features like Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair, and 360 Reality Audio.

5. Availability and Pricing: Priced at $119.99, the WF-C710N earbuds are available for pre-order with shipping expected to start on March 31, 2024, and come in multiple color options.

Sony has introduced the WF-C710N earbuds, which are the next version of the budget-friendly WF-C700N that came out in 2023. These new earbuds offer a redesigned look, improved battery life, and several other enhancements.

Design Improvements

The Sony WF-C710N maintains a small size but features a new design element where the physical button was located on the previous model. This change was made because Sony has replaced physical buttons with touch controls. Additionally, the mesh design has been revamped, adding a fresh touch to the overall look.

Enhanced Features

In terms of functionality, the WF-C710N now includes dual microphones on each earbud, enhancing its noise cancellation abilities. It also features in-ear detection that pauses music when the earbuds are removed and resumes it when they’re put back in. With the new touch controls, users can play/pause music, adjust the volume, skip tracks, and activate the voice assistant, or quickly access services like Spotify Tap.

Battery Life and Availability

The new earbuds have an IPX4 rating, which means they are water-resistant. They support Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair, Bluetooth Multipoint, and can be used with just one earbud. Additionally, they are certified for 360 Reality Audio, compatible with the 360 Spatial Sound Personalizer app and the Sound Connect app, which allows for switching presets or customizing EQ settings.

The Sony WF-C710N offers a battery life of up to 8.5 hours with noise cancellation enabled and up to 12 hours without it. When combined with the charging case, the total battery life reaches 30 hours, and the case charges via USB-C.

Available in Black, Pink, White, and a transparent Glass Blue, the price for the Sony WF-C710N earbuds is set at $119.99 and they can be pre-ordered now, with shipping anticipated to start on March 31. The earlier model, WF-700N, is still offered at $99.99 from Sony, or you can find it on Amazon for $98.00.

Source:
Link

Tags: Noise Cancellation, wireless earbuds
March 26, 2025

Sony Launches Updated Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

Key Takeaways

1. Sony has updated its WH-CH520 and WH-CH720N over-ear headphone models with new color options.
2. The WH-CH720N now includes a muted pastel pink variant, bringing its total color options to four.
3. The WH-CH520 has added a second soft, muted yellow shade, increasing its color options from four to six.
4. The pricing for both headphone models remains unchanged: WH-CH720N at $88.74 and WH-CH520 at $59.99.
5. New color choices for both models are available for pre-order globally, with deliveries expected soon.

Sony has updated two of its over-ear headphone models, just a bit over a month after news of their upcoming release surfaced online. The refreshed WH-CH520 and WH-CH720N are now available, together with the new WF-C710N. For further information on Sony’s recent TWS earbuds, check out our dedicated launch article.

New Color Options

To summarize, The Walkman Blog disclosed that Sony would introduce a pink variant for the WH-CH720N (currently priced at $88.74 on Amazon), which is now officially launched. In response to the “increasing demand for soft, muted tones,” the addition of this “muted pastel pink” makes the total color options for the WH-CH720N four. It’s worth noting that the pink version has the same hardware as the other three existing color choices.

Pricing Remains the Same

The WH-CH520 follows a similar pattern, keeping its MSRP at $59.99. However, its color palette has increased from four to six, thanks to the introduction of a second “soft, muted yellow” shade. Sony has also mentioned a new color called “Espresso” for the WH-CH520, but this is only available in Canada. All of the new color choices should be up for pre-order globally starting today. Deliveries are expected to commence either this weekend or early next week.

Source:
Link

Tags: sony, WH-CH520
March 25, 2025

FiiO FX17 Flagship Headphones: 13 Drivers & Hi-Fi Sound 8Hz-40kHz

Key Takeaways

1. High-End Design: FiiO FX17 earbuds feature a lightweight titanium shell with 13 drivers, including a 10mm dynamic lithium-magnesium driver, four Knowles Balanced Armature drivers, and eight electrostatic drivers from Sonion.

2. Complex Driver Setup: The earbuds use five crossovers for optimal sound quality, with electrostatic tweeters covering frequencies above 50kHz and a combination of drivers handling bass and mids.

3. Sensitivity and Cable Features: The FX17 has a sensitivity rating of 104 dB/mW, an impedance of 16 ohms, and comes with a replaceable MMCX cable that supports multiple plug types (3.5mm, 4.4mm, USB-C) and includes a built-in DAC.

4. Pricing and Availability: The FiiO FX17 is priced at $1,515 and is available on Aliexpress.

5. Included Accessories: The package includes 22 pairs of eartips for a customized fit, a cleaning brush, and a carrying case.

The brand-new FiiO FX17 are high-end earbuds that feature a lightweight titanium shell. Each earbud is equipped with 13 drivers, including a 10mm dynamic lithium-magnesium driver. Moreover, there are four Knowles Balanced Armature drivers specifically designed for the FX17, along with eight electrostatic drivers from Sonion.

Complex Driver Setup

To achieve optimal sound, FiiO has implemented five crossovers in this configuration. The diverse mix of driver types is expected to enhance audio quality. The electrostatic tweeters can theoretically cover frequencies above 50kHz and have a sensitivity of just 99 dB/mW, which means they may be less loud than dynamic drivers. However, with eight of these drivers in the in-ear design, their volume should be higher overall. The mids are handled by the Knowles Balanced Armature drivers, while the dynamic driver takes care of the bass.

Sensitivity and Cable Features

The FiiO FX17 boasts a sensitivity rating of 104 dB/mW and has an impedance of 16 ohms. These new earbuds come with a replaceable MMCX cable, making it easy to swap out if necessary. The included 4ft cable is a combination of gold, silver, and copper materials and can be fitted with either a 3.5mm, 4.4mm, or USB-C plug. The USB-C adapter includes a built-in DAC that supports audio quality up to 32 bit at 384kHz.

Pricing and Accessories

Currently, the FiiO FX17 flagship earbuds can be found on Aliexpress for $1,515. To provide the best fit, these headphones come with 22 different pairs of eartips. The plug of the supplied cable can be changed, as FiiO provides options for 3.5mm, 4.4mm, and USB-C connectors. Additionally, a cleaning brush and a carrying case are included in the package as well.

Source:
Link

Tags: high-end headphones
March 24, 2025

JVCKenwood Launches WDS-01 Wireless Speaker with Wood Driver

Key Takeaways

1. The JVCKenwood WDS-01 wireless speaker features a unique driver made from pure wood, with cabinet options in cedar, oak, pine, spruce, or dark walnut.
2. It has 60 mm wood cone drivers and supports Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity, allowing devices to be placed up to 10 meters (33 ft.) away, along with an aux in port for wired connections.
3. The built-in rechargeable battery lasts up to eight hours and takes about 4.5 hours to recharge via USB-C.
4. The speaker will be available on March 28, with only 100 units available and prices ranging from 38,500 yen (~$255) to 82,500 yen (~$545) depending on the wood type.
5. The first 30 customers will receive a natural beeswax cream for wood maintenance, and JVC also offers the HA-FW01 earbuds with wood dome diaphragms for those wanting a portable option.

JVCKenwood has introduced the WDS-01 wireless speaker, featuring a distinctive driver made from pure wood. This specially crafted speaker is available with cabinets made of cedar, oak, pine, spruce, or dark walnut.

Specifications and Connectivity

The WDS-01 is equipped with 60 mm wood cone drivers, allowing it to deliver standard SBC streaming audio through Bluetooth 4.2 connections. Users can place wireless audio devices as far as 10 meters (33 ft.) away. Additionally, the speaker includes an aux in port for those who prefer a wired connection.

Battery Life and Charging

The built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery powers the 6-watt speaker for up to eight hours. It takes about 4.5 hours to fully recharge using a USB-C power supply.

Pricing and Availability

The JVCKenwood WDS-01 wireless wood speaker is set to be available for purchase on March 28, with a limited run of just 100 units. Shipping is expected roughly a month after orders are placed. The cedar and pine variants are priced at 38,500 yen (~$255), while the oak and spruce versions cost 55,000 yen (~$365), and the walnut model is priced at 82,500 yen (~$545). The first 30 customers will receive a natural beeswax cream to help maintain the wood surfaces.

For readers seeking a more portable option, the JVC HA-FW01 earbuds, featuring wood dome diaphragms, are available for purchase on Amazon.

Source:
Link

Tags: Wireless Speaker
March 24, 2025

FiiO Launches SA1 Desktop Speakers with 31-Band EQ and LDAC

Key Takeaways

1. Compact Design: The FiiO SA1 speakers measure 13.6 x 15.6 x 18.5 cm and weigh 1.75 kg, making them small yet powerful desktop speakers.

2. Audio Performance: They feature a frequency range of 65 Hz to 20 kHz, a 31-band equalizer app for sound customization, and the ability to connect to an optional active subwoofer.

3. Connectivity Options: The speakers offer various inputs, including aux, TOSLINK, coaxial, USB-C, and Bluetooth 5.4, along with a phono preamp for turntables.

4. Integrated DAC: The built-in DAC supports high-resolution audio signals, handling up to 96 kHz/32-bit and 192 kHz/24-bit through USB and coax inputs.

5. Pricing and Availability: The FiiO SA1 is priced around $200 on AliExpress, with availability expected from global retailers like Amazon shortly after release.

The FiiO SA1 is a set of small desktop speakers that packs a punch. With dimensions of 13.6 x 15.6 x 18.5 cm (5.4 x 6.1 x 7.3 in) and a weight of 1.75 kg (3.86 lb), each unit features a 90 mm wood-fiber woofer and a 20 mm aluminum-magnesium tweeter, powered by a 20-watt and 5-watt amplifier respectively.

Audio Performance

Thanks to this configuration, the speakers provide a frequency range from 65 Hz to 20 kHz. A standout aspect is the 31-band equalizer found in the accompanying smartphone app, which lets users modify the sound output based on their likings and the acoustics of their space. The app also has presets tailored for different music styles. Moreover, the FiiO SA1 can connect to an optional active subwoofer and includes knobs for independent volume and bass control.

Connectivity Options

The FiiO SA1 desktop speakers are created for great adaptability. In addition to aux, TOSLINK, and coaxial inputs, FiiO has added a USB-C port for computer connections, a phono preamp for turntable use, and Bluetooth 5.4 that supports AAC, SBC, and Sony’s LDAC. The integrated DAC can handle 96 kHz/32-bit and 192 kHz/24-bit audio signals through USB and coax inputs respectively.

Pricing and Availability

You can find the FiiO SA1 on AliExpress with a price tag of about $200, not including taxes and shipping costs. If you’d rather not deal with imports, FiiO products usually show up at worldwide retailers like Amazon a few weeks after their initial release. For further details about the SA1, you can check out the official product page.

Source:
Link

Tags: Bluetooth 5.4, desktop speakers