Category: Audio

  • TDM Neo Headphones: Transform into Bluetooth Speaker on Kickstarter

    TDM Neo Headphones: Transform into Bluetooth Speaker on Kickstarter

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dual Functionality: The TDM Neo can transform from headphones to a portable Bluetooth speaker by twisting the earcups, addressing the need for both private and shared audio experiences.

    2. Technical Features: It includes four 40mm drivers, dual amplifiers, adjustable EQ, and supports multiple audio codecs, alongside Bluetooth 6.0 and Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC).

    3. Battery Life: The headphones offer over 200 hours of battery life in headphone mode, but only about 8 hours in speaker mode, with quick charging capabilities.

    4. User-Friendly Design: The battery is user-replaceable and the earcups can be swapped out when worn, enhancing the longevity of the product.

    5. Pricing and Funding: Available for pre-order on Kickstarter at $189, significantly lower than the retail price of $249, with successful funding exceeding $79,000 against a $10,000 goal.

    If you’re looking for headphones that can also function as a Bluetooth speaker, the TDM Neo might be just what you need. Initially introduced at CES 2026, this innovative audio accessory is now up for grabs on Kickstarter.

    Design and Functionality

    At first glance, the Neo resembles standard headphones with its soft headband and comfy memory foam ear cushions. However, it cleverly morphs into a portable Bluetooth speaker when the earcups are twisted in a special way. This is quite different from the JLab Blue XL, which is a Bluetooth speaker styled like oversized headphones.

    TDM claims that the Neo addresses the hassle of switching between headphones and bulky speakers when transitioning from private listening to shared sound. Interestingly, the twisting mechanism is not just practical for using the headphones as a speaker; it also facilitates easy storage, taking up minimal space.

    Technical Specs

    The TDM Neo is equipped with four 40mm drivers, dual amplifiers, and an adjustable EQ. It supports various audio codecs, including SBC, AAC, LC3, MSBC, and CVSD. Weighing in at 330 grams, it also features Bluetooth 6.0, Bluetooth Multipoint support, Google Fast Pair, and a Find Me option. Additionally, there is an aux port and a USB-C port. Although it lacks Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), the specs indicate it has Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) that utilizes four microphones for clear voice calls.

    The headphones boast a battery life exceeding 200 hours, but this decreases to around 8 hours when used in speaker mode. Quick charging is available, with just a 5-minute charge providing 8 hours of playback in headphone mode. TDM mentions that the battery is user-replaceable and users can also swap out the earcups when they become worn.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can pre-order the TDM Neo on Kickstarter at an early bird price of $189, which is a notable reduction from the retail price of $249. At the time of writing, TDM has garnered over $79,000 from backers, far surpassing its $10,000 target. Shipping is expected to begin in July 2026.

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  • Asus ROG Kithara Gaming Headset with 100mm Planar Drivers Launches

    Asus ROG Kithara Gaming Headset with 100mm Planar Drivers Launches

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ROG Kithara gaming headset costs $299 and features 100mm planar-magnetic drivers for high audio quality.
    2. It has a frequency range of 8Hz to 55kHz, with a focus on clear separation of bass, mids, and treble.
    3. The headset is open-back, meaning active noise cancellation is not effective, allowing ambient sounds to be heard.
    4. It includes a MEMS boom microphone, dual 3.5mm connections, a balanced 4.4mm plug, and a USB Type-C adapter for compatibility.
    5. The build features replaceable earpads, adjustable headband, a durable metal frame, and weighs under 15 oz but cannot be folded.

    The ROG Kithara is a fresh gaming headset that can be purchased for $299 on Amazon. It features 100mm drivers, specifically designed Hifiman planar-magnetic drivers that aim to provide superior audio quality. Asus claims that this headset has a frequency range spanning from 8Hz to 55kHz. Additionally, Asus emphasizes a distinct separation of bass, mids, and treble, which is meant to enhance spatial perception. As this is an open-back headset, active noise cancellation (ANC) would not be effective, making it easier to hear ambient sounds.

    Microphone and Connectivity

    Similar to most gaming headsets, the Kithara comes with a microphone. The boom mic utilizes MEMS technology and is reported to capture frequencies ranging from 20Hz to 20,000Hz. It employs a dual 3.5mm connection, ensuring wide compatibility with various devices. Specifically, it features a balanced 4.4mm plug along with 3.5mm and 6.3mm single-ended plugs, plus a USB Type-C adapter is also included.

    Customization and Build Quality

    There are several customization features, such as replaceable earpad cushions. The headband can be adjusted, and the metal frame along with metal hinges are designed to increase the headset’s durability. Asus mentions a signal-to-noise ratio of 74dB, which indicates the distinction between the noise floor and the audio signal. The headset weighs just under 15 oz, cannot be folded, and is shipped without a carrying case but includes extra earpads.

    Geizhals, Asus’

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  • Sony WF-1000XM6: New Wireless Earbuds Comparison Photos Released

    Sony WF-1000XM6: New Wireless Earbuds Comparison Photos Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony will launch the WF-1000XM6 earbuds on February 12, priced at $329.99 in the US and €299.99 in Europe.
    2. The WH-1000XM6 will also be updated at the same event, primarily with visual changes rather than hardware upgrades.
    3. The WF-1000XM6 is thicker and taller than the WF-1000XM5, possibly affecting comfort and fit.
    4. Comparison pictures reveal size differences among the WF-1000X series earbuds, with the WF-1000XM5 being the smallest.
    5. The tech community is eager to assess the performance and comfort of the new WF-1000XM6 as its launch date approaches.

    Sony is just one day away from launching the WF-1000XM6 worldwide. Interestingly, the company also revealed yesterday that it will refresh the older WH-1000XM6 at the same event (curr. $398 on Amazon). From recent leaks and gossip, it seems that the update will mostly be a visual change and not an upgrade in hardware.

    Design Insights

    We already have a good idea of what the WF-1000XM6 will look like. While we eagerly wait for Sony’s official announcement, The Walkman Blog has provided comparison pictures showing how the latest WF-1000X earbuds stack up against each other. The image below reveals that the WF-1000XM5 is the smallest among the three, while the WF-1000XM4 stands tallest.

    Size Differences

    Notably, the WF-1000XM6 is thicker than the WF-1000XM4. Additionally, the new wireless earbuds from Sony are taller than the outgoing WF-1000XM5. This means that the WF-1000XM6 may stick out more from the ears compared to its predecessors. It’s still unclear how these design tweaks will affect comfort and fit, but we will find out soon. The WF-1000XM6 is expected to be available for purchase shortly after 16:00 UTC on February 12. Sony plans to sell these new earbuds for $329.99 in the US and €299.99 in Europe.

    Final Thoughts

    The Walkman Blog has provided valuable insights into these upcoming products. As the launch date approaches, many tech enthusiasts are curious about the performance and comfort of the new WF-1000XM6. With its design changes and pricing, it will be interesting to see how it competes in the market.

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  • Sony Teases Release of WH-1000XM6 Headphones

    Sony Teases Release of WH-1000XM6 Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony’s WF-1000XM6 earbuds will launch on February 12 at 16:00 UTC.
    2. The WH-1000XM6 headphones, first introduced in May 2025, are priced at $398 and available in three colors.
    3. A new color option, Sandpink, for the WH-1000XM6 may be released soon.
    4. An official teaser hints at the upcoming WH-1000XM6 but does not confirm details.
    5. The Sandpink version is expected to be a visual update rather than a hardware change.

    Last week, Sony announced that the WF-1000XM6 earbuds are set to launch soon. The new earbuds will officially be available starting February 12 at 16:00 UTC. Additionally, the company has hinted that there are more products besides the much-anticipated WF-1000XM5 successors coming later this week.

    A Quick Look Back

    Sony first introduced the WH-1000XM6 headphones in May 2025, priced at $398 on Amazon. Since their release, these over-ear wireless headphones have been offered in three colors: Black, Midnight Blue, and Platinum Silver. However, Roland Quandt suggested last week that a refresh in Sandpink might be coming soon.

    Exciting New Developments

    Now, Sony has suggested that the new WH-1000XM6 will also be released before the week’s end. An official teaser shared on their social media does not specifically confirm any rumors but features what seems to be a pair of over-ear headphones covered with a pink sheet. While the complete details and pricing are still under wraps, Sony’s Smoky Pink updates from previous models indicate that this Sandpink version is likely to be more of a visual update rather than a change in hardware.

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  • Bowers & Wilkins 707 Prestige Edition Speaker: Enhanced Sound & Shine

    Bowers & Wilkins 707 Prestige Edition Speaker: Enhanced Sound & Shine

    Key Takeaways

    1. Bowers & Wilkins launches the 707 Prestige Edition, an affordable speaker with a unique “Santos Gloss” finish.
    2. The new model features minor upgrades from the 705 Signature Edition, including a modified tweeter grille and speaker terminals for improved audio clarity.
    3. The 707 Prestige Edition retains the same drivers and crossovers as the 707 S3, resulting in minimal changes in sound quality.
    4. Specifications include a 25mm carbon tweeter, 130mm Continuum Cone driver, frequency range of 45Hz to 33kHz, and a sensitivity rating of 84dB.
    5. The 707 Prestige Edition will be released on January 21, with a retail price yet to be announced, while the standard 707 S3 is priced at $2,000 per pair.

    Audio lovers searching for a unique Bowers & Wilkins speaker with a shiny finish previously had to settle for the pricey 705 Signature Edition. However, the company is now updating the smaller, more affordable 707 S3 by launching a new version called the Prestige Edition. This model is only available in the “Santos Gloss” color, which is also used for the 805 D3 Prestige Edition.

    Luxurious Finish and Minor Upgrades

    The warm reddish wood is treated with twelve layers of paint. Technically, there are just a few enhancements borrowed from the Bowers & Wilkins 705 Signature Edition. For example, the tweeter’s front grille and the speaker terminals at the back have been modified to provide clearer audio and a broader soundstage. Since the drivers and crossovers remain the same, any changes in sound quality are likely to be minimal.

    Specifications and Features

    The Bowers & Wilkins 707 Prestige Edition, like the 707 S3, comes equipped with a 25mm carbon tweeter and a 130mm Continuum Cone bass/mid-range driver. Each speaker weighs around 13.2 lb and has dimensions of 11.8 x 9.7 x 6.5 inches. Bowers & Wilkins also specifies a frequency range of 45Hz to 33kHz, an impedance of 8 ohms, and a sensitivity rating of 84dB. The company suggests using an amplifier that delivers between 30 to 100 watts per channel for the best performance.

    Release and Pricing Details

    The Bowers & Wilkins 707 Prestige Edition is set to be released on January 21. For comparison, the standard Bowers & Wilkins 707 S3 has a retail price of $2,000 for a pair. For additional details regarding the Prestige Edition, you can check out the official product page.

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  • Next AirPods Pro Could Feature Built-In Cameras

    Next AirPods Pro Could Feature Built-In Cameras

    Key Takeaways

    1. Upcoming AirPods Pro may include built-in infrared (IR) cameras to assess surroundings.
    2. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts IR-enabled AirPods will be launched in 2026.
    3. Mark Gurman from Bloomberg notes Apple is considering IR camera integration for AirPods in the near future.
    4. Possible uses for the IR cameras include enhancing spatial audio and gesture control.
    5. Current information is speculative; it’s unclear if this will lead to a new model or an upgrade of the existing AirPods Pro 3.

    Apple might be shifting its focus from just sound to include sight for its upcoming AirPods model.

    Rumors circulating on X suggest that the next version of Apple’s AirPods Pro could feature built-in infrared (IR) cameras designed to assess the user’s surroundings. A leaker named “Kosutami” has indicated that these cameras aim to enhance the spatial audio experience. It is said that each earbud will likely contain at least one camera.

    Analyst Insights

    This speculation aligns with earlier statements from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who mentioned in 2024 that Apple was developing AirPods equipped with IR cameras. Kuo predicted that these IR-enabled AirPods would be launched in 2026. In a blog entry from March 2025, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman also noted that Apple was contemplating the integration of IR cameras into AirPods in the foreseeable future. Additionally, another leaker, “Instant Digital,” asserts that an IR version of AirPods Pro is on the way this year.

    Uncertain Purposes

    The exact function of the IR cameras remains a topic of discussion. Some insiders suggest that they will enhance spatial audio, especially in conjunction with Apple’s Vision Pro headset. Conversely, others propose that they might be used for gesture control, akin to the existing head movements used to accept or decline calls.

    As a reminder, all of these assertions are currently just speculations. It’s still uncertain if they will lead to a fresh model of AirPods Pro or merely an upgraded version of the existing AirPods Pro 3 earbuds, which are currently listed on Amazon for $209.99.

    Kosutami on X

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  • Xiaomi Bluetooth Speaker Essential: Global Launch of Bluetooth 6.0

    Xiaomi Bluetooth Speaker Essential: Global Launch of Bluetooth 6.0

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is set to launch the Bluetooth Speaker Essential, a modified version of the Redmi Bluetooth Speaker 2, globally.
    2. The Bluetooth Speaker Essential features Bluetooth 6.0, an upgrade from the Redmi’s Bluetooth 5.3.
    3. It has an IP66 water resistance rating, which means it cannot be submerged in water, unlike the IP67 rating of the Redmi Bluetooth Speaker 2.
    4. The speaker offers 5 W power, a 1.5-inch driver, a passive radiator, and a 1,000 mAh battery with up to 10 hours of playback at 40% volume.
    5. It includes a USB Type-C port for wired use and supports synchronized playback with up to 10 speakers or TWS pairing with two units.

    It looks like Xiaomi is about to launch a slightly modified version of the Redmi Bluetooth Speaker 2 worldwide. Just to remind you, this speaker was first unveiled in September last year in China. Although it hasn’t been launched yet, the recent appearance of the Bluetooth Speaker Essential on Xiaomi’s global site suggests that it will be available internationally in the coming months.

    Key Differences in Features

    The Bluetooth Speaker Essential isn’t just a rebranded version of the Redmi Bluetooth Speaker 2. For starters, it features Bluetooth 6.0 connectivity, which is an upgrade over the Bluetooth 5.3 standard found in the latter. Additionally, Xiaomi has given the Bluetooth Speaker Essential an IP66 rating for water resistance, which is lower than the IP67 rating that the Redmi Bluetooth Speaker 2 boasts.

    Practical Implications

    What this means in real terms is that the Bluetooth Speaker Essential cannot withstand being submerged in water up to one meter, unlike the Redmi Bluetooth Speaker 2, which can. Aside from the IP ratings, the Bluetooth Speaker Essential provides a rated power of 5 W, similar to the previous Sound Pocket model (currently priced at $24.49 on Amazon). Furthermore, Xiaomi’s latest speaker comes with a 1.5-inch driver and a passive radiator, along with a 1,000 mAh battery that can last up to 10 hours at 40% volume. However, if you crank it up to 100% volume, the official battery life drops to just 2.5 hours.

    Additional Features and Availability

    Moreover, the Bluetooth Speaker Essential can also function as a wired speaker through its USB Type-C port. Xiaomi has also highlighted the ability for synchronized playback among up to 10 speakers or TWS stereo pairing with two units. Currently, the pricing and exact release date are still not known. For more information, you can check Xiaomi’s official website.

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  • Anker Soundcore Nebula Projector Now Available Worldwide

    Anker Soundcore Nebula Projector Now Available Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Anker soundcore Nebula P1 portable projector is priced at €799.99 in Europe and $799 in the US, featuring detachable speakers.
    2. Customers purchasing before February 24th receive a complimentary bundle, including a 100-inch screen and Solix C300Z Power Station.
    3. The projector offers 1080p resolution with a maximum image size of 180 inches and has features like autofocus and keystone correction.
    4. It includes two detachable speakers for 2.0 channel surround sound, providing up to 20 hours of playback, while the projector itself does not run on battery.
    5. The Nebula P1 operates on Google TV, supports HDMI 2.1 (eARC) and USB connections, and has a brightness of up to 650 ANSI lumens with a lifespan of approximately 25,000 hours.

    The Anker soundcore Nebula P1 portable projector, which comes with detachable speakers, has been launched in Europe. This model made its debut in the US in late 2025, currently priced at $799 on Amazon, following some buzz earlier in the year.

    Availability in Europe

    You can now purchase the Anker soundcore Nebula P1 in several countries across Europe, including the Netherlands, France, and Germany, for €799.99. It can be found on the official website of the brand or through its Amazon store. Customers who buy the product before February 24th will receive a complimentary bundle, which features a 100-inch screen valued at €129.99 and a Solix C300Z Power Station, which is worth €229.99.

    Features and Specifications

    The soundcore Nebula P1 is a 1080p (1,920 x 1080p) projector that can project images as large as 180 inches. It boasts 124% coverage of the Rec.709 color space, a native contrast ratio of 400:1, and a 1.2:1 throw ratio. Users can easily enhance the image quality using features like autofocus and keystone correction, plus they can adjust the projection angle up to 130° thanks to the built-in gimbal stand. The LED light source is reported to provide brightness of up to 650 ANSI lumens, with an impressive lifespan of around 25,000 hours.

    Unique Sound Experience

    The soundcore Nebula P1 claims to be the first of its kind with its two detachable speakers, capable of producing 2.0 channel surround sound and offering up to 20 hours of playback. Although the speakers are powered by battery, it’s important to mention that the projector itself does not run on battery. The P1 operates on Google TV, allowing users to access a variety of streaming applications. Moreover, it supports connections through ports like HDMI 2.1 (eARC) and USB. It’s still unknown when this device will be available in the UK.

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  • Xiaomi Redmi K90 Ultra and K Pad 2 to Have Bose Speakers

    Xiaomi Redmi K90 Ultra and K Pad 2 to Have Bose Speakers

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Redmi K90 series launched in October 2025, featuring the Redmi K90 and K90 Pro Max with Bose-tuned audio systems.
    2. The K90 Pro Max includes a 2.1-channel sound system with a subwoofer powered by Bose.
    3. Upcoming devices, including the Redmi K90 Ultra and K Pad 2, are expected to have Bose-tuned speakers.
    4. The K90 Ultra will feature an overclocked MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset, an 8,500mAh battery, and 100W fast charging.
    5. The Redmi K Pad 2 is anticipated to have an 8.8-inch LCD display with a 3K resolution and a 9,000mAh battery, launching in China in early 2026.

    The Xiaomi Redmi K90 series made its debut in October 2025, introducing the regular Redmi K90 and the K90 Pro Max. A standout feature of the series is the audio system tuned by Bose. Notably, the K90 Pro Max comes with a 2.1-channel sound system that includes a subwoofer, powered by Bose. Recently, there have been rumors suggesting that additional Redmi devices will also incorporate Bose-tuned speakers.

    New Devices Featuring Bose Audio

    Tipster Smart Pikachu has revealed that the Redmi K90 Ultra and the Redmi K Pad 2 are set to include Bose-tuned speakers, with the K90 Ultra likely boasting a three-speaker setup (the JBL Go 4 Bluetooth speaker is curr. $40 on Amazon). For those who might not know, the K90 Ultra is predicted to be the top-tier model in the K90 series.

    Performance and Specifications

    According to leaks, this device will focus on performance, featuring an overclocked MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset along with a built-in cooling fan. It is anticipated that the phone will include a battery of approximately 8,500mAh, with support for 100W fast charging.

    On the other hand, the Redmi K Pad 2 is likely to be a smaller tablet, sporting an 8.8-inch LCD display with a 3K resolution and a refresh rate of 165Hz. Reports suggest that it will come equipped with a battery close to 9,000mAh.

    Expected Launch and Global Availability

    The tablet is expected to be unveiled in the first half of 2026 in China. For context, the original Redmi K Pad, which came before the K Pad 2, was released as the Xiaomi Pad Mini in other countries. Therefore, it is possible that we will see the K Pad 2 enter the global market as well, potentially under a different name.

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  • YouTube Music Begins Paying for Lyrics Access for Free Users

    YouTube Music Begins Paying for Lyrics Access for Free Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Free YouTube Music users can only access full lyrics for a limited number of songs before facing a paywall.
    2. A new user interface change displays remaining lyric views and encourages users to upgrade to Premium.
    3. The lyrics paywall appears to be expanding after previous experiments by Google.
    4. It is unclear if the limit is five full songs per month or five views of lyrics before requiring a subscription.
    5. The rollout of this change may be phased, affecting some users while others do not experience it yet.

    According to reports from various media sources, users with free YouTube Music accounts are facing a restriction where they can only access full lyrics for a few songs. After reaching this limit, the app begins to blur the remaining lyrics and encourages users to upgrade to a paid subscription. The message displayed on-screen reads, “Unlock lyrics with Premium,” and a banner indicates the number of lyric views left.

    User Interface Changes

    Additional reports highlight a comparable user interface change on the Now Playing screen, specifically in the lyrics tab. A card shows the message “You have [x] views remaining” along with the Premium upgrade option. Once users hit the limit, they can only see the initial lines of the lyrics; the rest become blurred and cannot be scrolled through.

    Ongoing Developments

    These observations are based on various user experiences, and it is noted that Google had previously experimented with making lyrics accessible only to Premium subscribers. It seems that the lyrics paywall might be expanding its reach after several months of testing, but it is still unclear if the limit of “five free” views resets on a monthly basis.

    Unanswered Questions

    Two significant aspects have not been confirmed yet. The first is whether the actual limit is five full songs each month, as some reports suggest, or if it’s simply five views of lyrics before requiring a Premium subscription. The second concern is about the rollout: some users might currently experience this change while others do not, suggesting it could be a phased rollout or a test based on account types.

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