Category: Audio

January 16, 2025

Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC: 50dB Noise Canceling & 38h Playback

Realme has introduced the Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC neckband earphones in India, coinciding with the launch of the Realme 14 Pro series. These earphones are designed with hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC), spatial audio, and impressive battery life, aiming at the mid-range audio segment. Let’s take a look at the main specifications.

Key Features of Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC

The Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC comes packed with a 13.6mm dynamic bass driver that delivers deep and rich sound. Powered by the BT8931H chipset, this gadget ensures balanced audio output and reliable connectivity. It boasts a hybrid active noise cancellation of 50dB with three adjustable noise reduction settings, significantly reducing surrounding noise for a more immersive listening experience.

The earbuds utilize Bluetooth 5.4 technology and provide a 45ms ultra-low latency, making them perfect for gamers. They also allow dual-device connectivity, which makes switching between devices effortless. Furthermore, they feature 360° spatial audio, which enhances the audio experience for both entertainment and gaming.

Durability and Comfort

When it comes to durability, these earphones have an IP55 rating for water and dust resistance, making them great for exercising and outdoor activities. The neckband design is lightweight, weighing merely 30g, which improves comfort during prolonged use.

Additionally, the device is equipped with a system of five microphones with ENC support, ensuring clear voice capture during calls. The 4000Hz ultra-wideband noise cancellation further enhances call clarity. The neckband also integrates with the Realme Link app, enabling users to customize their EQ settings and noise cancellation preferences.

Battery Life and Pricing

Battery performance is another highlight of the Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC. Users can enjoy up to 38 hours of playback time with ANC turned off, while the active ANC mode offers a commendable 20-hour battery life. The neckband supports fast charging, allowing for 20 hours of playback with just a quick 10-minute charge, which minimizes downtime.

As for pricing, the Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC is available for Rs. 1,799 ($20), but it has an introductory launch price of Rs. 1,599 ($18). The first sale will kick off on January 23, 2025, through Amazon, Flipkart, Realme’s website, and various offline stores. Customers can choose from color options like Twilight Purple, Midnight Black, and Dawn Silver.

In other news, Lenovo has also launched the EA400 clip-on earbuds that feature 13mm drivers, IPX5 water resistance, up to 24 hours of playback, and spatial audio. Meanwhile, Baseus has released the BD1 TWS earbuds, which come with 8.6mm drivers, 35 hours of battery life, dual-mic ENC, and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity.

Tags: Active Noise Cancellation, Bluetooth 5.4, Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC
January 16, 2025

Samsung HW-QS700F: Versatile Flagship Soundbar Launching 2025

Samsung has recently revealed the HW-QS700F soundbar, providing more insights into this new model. It was showcased at CES 2025 alongside the HW-Q990F soundbar, highlighting its flagship status.

Features of the HW-QS700F

The Samsung HW-QS700F is designed as a 3.1.2-channel soundbar equipped with a total of nine speakers. This setup includes both front-facing and upfiring speakers, complemented by a wireless subwoofer. Samsung brands the soundbar as “versatile,” allowing it to be wall-mounted or set on a media cabinet, and it can be oriented either vertically or horizontally. An integrated gyroscope sensor enables the speakers to automatically adjust their roles based on the positioning, ensuring that audio is delivered in a balanced manner.

Advanced Capabilities

Samsung has announced that the QS700F will feature several advanced technologies such as Active Voice Amplifier Pro, Q-Symphony Pro, and the innovative Eclipsa Audio when paired with a compatible 2025 television. Additionally, it is expected to support Apple AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and SpaceFit Sound. There are also rumors suggesting that it will support Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Audio, and DTS:X.

Launch and Pricing

While the HW-QS700F is set to be released in 2025, the exact launch date and pricing remain uncertain. For comparison, the 2023 HW-Q700C, which is also a 3.1.2 channel soundbar, was initially priced at $699.99 but is currently listed for $447.95 on Amazon. In addition to the HW-Q990F, Samsung is also anticipated to introduce the HW-B750F and HW-B650F models later this year.

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Tags: CES 2025, soundbar
January 16, 2025

MorningBlues Launches Gallery T2 Wireless Speaker with 2K Screen

MorningBlues has introduced its newest wireless speaker, the Gallery T2. This innovative speaker, designed in a frame style, offers a variety of features that set it apart from Samsung’s Music Frame, which is currently priced at $397 on Amazon. The sleek design resembles a picture frame, making it suitable for both wall mounting and table placement.

Advanced Audio Features

Inside, the Gallery T2 is equipped with a two-channel speaker system and built-in woofers, delivering triple-frequency Hi-Fi sound for an exceptional audio experience. Specifically, this frame speaker includes two tweeters, two mid-range drivers, and two woofers. It connects easily to phones, tablets, computers, and TVs through WiFi (2.4/5 GHz) or Bluetooth 5.0.

Music Streaming and More

The Gallery T2 allows music streaming from all major platforms, including Spotify, YouTube Music, Apple Music, Tidal, and Amazon Prime Music, all while supporting Hi-Fi audio. Additionally, it features a dynamic lyrics function. This capability provides a visual display of the music, with options for 14 different dynamic lyrics and visualization styles, enhancing the audiovisual experience. The speaker also boasts a 30-inch 2K anti-glare display with a 4:3 aspect ratio. You can use the Gallery T2 to display various artworks, oil paintings, as well as your own photos and videos.

Customizable Clock and App Features

Furthermore, MorningBlue’s digital frame can function as a wall or table clock, courtesy of its dynamic clock feature, which offers six customizable colors and two unique styles. Importantly, it comes with a dedicated MoringBlues companion app that provides access to various features, including selecting art from a collection of over 100 masterpieces, changing lyrics styles, customizing clock styles, and uploading your personal photos and videos. The dimensions of the speaker are 640 x 491 x 53 mm (25.1 x 19.3 x 2 inches), and it weighs approximately 8 kg (17.6 lbs).

The MorningBlues Gallery T2 is priced at $899 and is available only in black. If you’re in the market for a wireless speaker that doesn’t resemble typical tech gadgets, this frame speaker could be the perfect option for you. The Gallery T2 is now available for purchase on MorningBlues’ official website.

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Tags: Hi-Fi Audio
January 15, 2025

Lenovo EA400 Earbuds: 13mm Drivers, IPX5, 24H Playback, Spatial Audio

Lenovo has launched a new set of G-shaped clip-on headphones in China, called the EA400. They are attractively priced at 199 yuan ($27) and can now be found for sale on JD.com. Let’s dive into the key specifications of this product.

Lenovo EA400 Features

The Lenovo EA400 earbuds come with G-shaped ear clips, which are designed to fit any ear size and shape perfectly, ensuring a comfy, stable, and secure fit. Crafted from soft, skin-friendly liquid silicone, these clips can flex up to 180° without losing their original shape. The open-style, ergonomic design guarantees comfort throughout the day, even during vigorous activities or long listening sessions.

Sound Quality and Connectivity

The earbuds deliver high-resolution sound using a 13mm dynamic driver, with a frequency range spanning from 20Hz to 20,000Hz. Through advanced algorithms and bio-diaphragm tech, they provide an immersive audio experience with rich details and deep bass. Directional soundwave focusing minimizes audio leakage, enhancing the clarity of sound.

Equipped with Bluetooth 5.4 technology, the earbuds offer double the data transmission speed compared to previous versions and cut down latency by 40%. This allows for seamless connectivity within a range of 10 meters, providing a smooth audio experience for music and calls alike.

Additional Features and Specifications

The EA400 has a dual-microphone system with noise-cancellation capabilities, ensuring that call quality is crystal clear and feels like a face-to-face chat. They also feature a Type-C charging port and a low-power chip, which grants up to 6 hours of battery life on one charge. When paired with the charging case, users can enjoy a total playback time of 24 hours. Additionally, they are rated IPX4 for water and sweat resistance, making them a great option for outdoor use.

These earbuds include touch controls that allow users to manage music, calls, and voice assistants easily. They are compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows devices as well.

In other news, Baseus has recently launched the BD1 TWS earbuds, which boast 8.6mm drivers, 35 hours of playback, dual-microphone ENC, and Bluetooth 5.4. Moreover, Lenovo has also revealed its TWS Earbuds (X9 Edition) and the Legion H410 Headset during CES 2025.

Tags: Bluetooth 5.4, earbuds
January 15, 2025

AceFit Pro: Open-Ear Headphones with Integrated Lighting

New open-ear headphones are now seeking funding on Kickstarter, called the AceFit Pro. These headphones come packed with unique features and are available for pre-order, complete with an early-bird discount. As with any crowdfunding initiative, there are typical risks involved.

Pricing and Availability

The AceFit Pro is priced at $119, which is a 37% reduction from the retail price of $189. Customers can choose from four vibrant colors: green, pink, purple, and white. Additionally, there are several bundle options available, including a dual pack or packages that include other AceFast products. The global delivery is expected to begin in March 2025.

Unique Features

One standout feature of the AceFit Pro is its built-in lighting that offers eight different light effects. A matrix of 40 LEDs allows these open-ear headphones to shine brightly. This design not only adds a stylish touch but also aims to enhance safety during nighttime activities, like walking in poorly lit areas or jogging after dark. The manufacturer claims that the visibility can reach up to 10 meters.

Sound Quality and Design

For audio quality, AceFast has equipped the AceFit Pro with a 3-magnet Super Linear driver, which has a max amplitude of 0.5 mm. The earbuds are lightweight, weighing just 7.6 g, and they stay secure thanks to a 0.7 mm thin and flexible titanium wire that is wrapped in skin-friendly silicone.

Additional Features

Beyond touch controls, the AceFit Pro includes five different sound effects and ENC Noise Cancellation. The battery life is reportedly around 6 hours, but this can be extended by an additional 25 hours with the included charging case that features an integrated display. AceFast also assures users of reliable Bluetooth connectivity, thanks to LDS antennas, which support dual-device connections.

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Tags: Kickstarter, open-ear headphones
January 14, 2025

Sony WH-C710N: New Wireless Earbuds Leaked Before Launch

Sony doesn’t release new wireless earbuds and headphones as often as some other brands. For example, the WF-1000XM5 will be two years old this year. In comparison, the WH-1000XM5 is nearing its third birthday (curr. $298 on Amazon).

Uncertainty Surrounding Updates

This makes it hard to guess when Sony might update its wireless audio products. However, The Walkman Blog has found some early hints about a new model called WF-C700N, which is said to be a successor to the WF-C500 that came out in early 2023. These new earbuds are expected to include some features from Sony’s pricier models instead of just being basic upgrades.

Features and Battery Life

The Walkman Blog reports that these upcoming earbuds will have the same battery as the WF-1000XM5. If this is true, the WF-C710N could last up to 24 hours with its charging case. This would be a 26% improvement in battery life compared to the previous version.

Design and Release Information

Additionally, the new earbuds might feature touch controls instead of physical buttons. So far, images show that the WF-C710N will come in four different colors, including a stylish translucent one. Unfortunately, there’s no word yet on when they will be released or any other specifics at this time.

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Tags: WF-1000XM5, WF-C710N
January 14, 2025

Moondrop Launches Affordable Edge Headphones with LDAC and ANC

Moondrop has unveiled their newest over-ear headphones, boasting a foldable design that makes them easy to carry around. The headphones come with aluminum hinges, which contribute to their sturdiness. The ear cushions are cushioned with memory foam, allowing them to mold to the unique shape of each ear for improved comfort.

Impressive Sound Features

In addition, these headphones are outfitted with 40mm dynamic drivers that have a beryllium coating, aimed at providing a remarkable dynamic range. The headphones feature four microphones dedicated to active noise cancellation (ANC) and other tasks. To ensure clarity during phone calls, there’s also technology for beamforming and wind noise reduction.

Connectivity and Battery Life

The Moondrop Edge connects to smartphones and various devices using Bluetooth 5.4. These wireless headphones support SBC, AAC, and Sony’s high-resolution LDAC codec. Furthermore, Bluetooth multipoint allows users to connect their headphones to two devices at once. Users can control volume and playback with buttons on the headphones. Moondrop asserts that the Edge headphones can last up to 48 hours on a single charge, and a quick five-minute USB-C charge provides enough power for four hours of playback.

Pricing and Availability

You can now purchase the Moondrop Edge for the official price of $79.99 on Amazon. For more specifics about these new over-ear headphones, you can check out the product page. The package includes a charging cable and a carrying case.

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Tags: Active Noise Cancellation, MOONDROP EDGE, Wireless Headphones
January 14, 2025

Sonos CEO Resigns After Tough 2024; Interim CEO Appointed

Patrick Spence, CEO of Sonos, has decided to resign effective immediately. His departure follows a challenging 2024, which was marked by the launch of a new companion app that was meant to be more user-friendly, quicker, and overall better, as stated by Spence. Regrettably, the app, which debuted in May 2024, missed several key features present in the previous version. Additionally, the company’s first headphones, the Sonos Ace, did not perform as well as anticipated.

Official Announcement

Sonos has confirmed Spence’s resignation in an official statement, noting that he will also resign from his position on the board. As the search for a new CEO begins, Tom Conrad, who has been an independent board member since 2017, will step in as Interim CEO. Conrad brings a wealth of experience, having previously worked as the Chief Product Officer for Quibi, Vice President of Product at Snap Inc., and Chief Technology Officer and VP of Product at Pandora.

Transition Period

As reported by The Verge, Spence is the only high-level executive departing. However, he will technically stay on with the company until the end of June to provide strategic advisory services. After this period, he will receive a severance package totaling $1,875,000.

Future Plans

Sonos has no intentions of reverting to the previous app, nor are there any plans to delay upcoming products, including a rumored streaming device. In a letter to employees, Conrad expressed his commitment to not only getting the company back on the right path but also expanding the Sonos platform.

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Tags: Sonos, Sonos Ace
January 14, 2025

Honor Earbuds Open: AI Translation, ANC, Spatial Audio, 22h Playtime

Honor has recently unveiled its Magic 7 Pro series in Malaysia, following the initial launch in China last year. Along with the smartphone, the company has also rolled out a new set of earbuds known as the Honor Earbuds Open.

Pricing and Availability

While the earbuds are currently listed on Hong Kong’s official website, their pricing has not been revealed there. In Malaysia, however, they are available for RM699 ($155). There are expectations that these earbuds will be introduced in other regions shortly. Now, let’s explore their main features.

Key Features of Honor Earbuds Open

The Honor Earbuds Open are designed to be lightweight and have a unique crescent shape made from food-grade silicone, ensuring comfort during wear. They incorporate a nickel-titanium memory alloy C-bridge, which provides durability and flexibility, making them ideal for long-term use and compatible for those who wear glasses. Each earbud measures 49.22 x 39.52 x 15.6 mm and weighs 7.9g, while the charging case is 80.44 x 61.02 x 20.45 mm and weighs 52.5g.

These earbuds boast a 16mm multi-magnetic circuit dynamic driver equipped with a high-elastic TPU composite diaphragm and a titanium-plated dome tweeter that delivers a rich sound experience. They support spatial audio and carry an IP54 rating which makes them resistant to water and dust.

Advanced Technology for Users

One of the standout features of the Earbuds Open is their AI-driven real-time translation, catering to globetrotters and professionals alike. The “Shared Mode” allows for bilingual conversations, and the translation capability greatly enhances comprehension during lectures and meetings.

The earbuds are also equipped with a triple-microphone hybrid active noise cancellation system, which effectively minimizes background noise during music playback and phone conversations. Furthermore, the AI Privacy Call feature reduces sound leakage, which is essential for maintaining privacy even in quiet settings.

Connectivity and Battery Life

The Honor Earbuds Open utilize Bluetooth 5.2 technology, allowing for dual-device pairing that ensures stable connections and smooth audio transitions. The earbuds come with user-friendly touch controls, including double-tap, triple-tap, swipe, and long press for easy navigation.

On battery life, users can expect up to 6 hours of playback from a single charge, extending to 22 hours when using the charging case. They support quick charging as well, with a mere 15-minute charge offering 2 hours of playback, while the case itself takes about 110 minutes to recharge fully.

These earbuds are available in two attractive colors: Polar Gold and Polar Black.

Tags: honor, Magic 7 Pro
January 13, 2025

Xiaomi Launches 33W and 165W Compact Fast-Charging Power Banks

Xiaomi has unveiled two new portable chargers, the Xiaomi 33W Power Bank 10000 and the Xiaomi 165W Power Bank 10000. These devices, designed to be compact and functional, address various charging needs.

Xiaomi 33W Power Bank 10000

Weighing in at 210g, the Xiaomi 33W Power Bank is a convenient choice for users. It comes with a built-in USB-C cable and can provide 33W fast charging. Its main features include:
– A single USB-C port capable of 33W fast charging.
– One USB-A port that can distribute power up to 22.5W.
– Two 5000mAh battery cells combined with smart detection technology to enhance current output.

This power bank retails for 24.9 Euros (approximately $25) and is ideal for air travel situations.

Xiaomi 165W Power Bank 10000

On the other hand, the Xiaomi 165W Power Bank is tailored for quicker charging and greater output. It provides:
– An integrated USB-C cable that delivers a 120W output.
– Two USB-C ports that can generate a total output of 165W.
– The capability to charge two devices at the same time at 120W and 45W.
– Self-charging at 90W, achieving 75% in 15 minutes and a complete charge in 35 minutes.

Weighing 318g, with dimensions of 143 x 48 x 36mm, it holds a capacity of 10,000mAh (comprising four 2500mAh cells) and features a display for battery status. Its price is set at 49.9 Euros (around $51).

Availability

Both of these power banks are accessible in select regions of Europe and Asia. Their practical designs and various features make them great options for charging while on the move.

In addition, Xiaomi has rolled out the Redmi Buds 6 and Buds 6 Pro globally. The Redmi Buds 6 comes with a dual-driver system for clear sound, active noise cancellation (ANC) that reduces noise by up to 49 dB, and offers up to 42 hours of playback when used with the case. Meanwhile, the Redmi Buds 6 Pro boasts a triple-driver configuration for superior audio, ANC that cuts noise by up to 55 dB, compatibility with high-resolution codecs like LDAC, spatial audio with head tracking, and a total battery life of 36 hours.

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Tags: Redmi Buds 6 Pro, Xiaomi 165W Power Bank 10000, Xiaomi 33W Power Bank 10000