Category: Audio

  • Blaupunkt Releases Atomik PS30 Pro Portable Speaker in India, Priced at Rs. 2,999 (~$36)

    Blaupunkt Releases Atomik PS30 Pro Portable Speaker in India, Priced at Rs. 2,999 (~$36)

    German electronics company Blaupunkt has recently introduced the Atomik PS30 Pro portable speaker in the Indian market. This new speaker aims to enhance every gathering by creating an electrifying atmosphere. Blaupunkt claims that the PS30 Pro will redefine the way celebrations are enjoyed.

    Precision-Crafted Design

    The PS30 Pro is meticulously crafted from high-quality materials, showcasing Blaupunkt's legacy of over a century. The company is known for its reliable and durable products, and the PS30 Pro is no exception.

    Exceptional Sound Quality

    Despite its compact design, the PS30 Pro delivers exceptional sound quality. Equipped with 30W drivers, it produces energetic and powerful sounds. The speaker's Dual Passive Radiators create a deep and resonant sound, ensuring that the music is not only heard but also felt. The sturdy design of the compact speaker is complemented by its smooth edges and a comfortable carrying strap, making it suitable for outdoor activities such as hikes and trips. The PS30 Pro also features a wide volume knob and touch controls, providing users with precise control over the speaker.

    Portability and Power Combined

    The Blaupunkt PS30 Pro speaker offers an intriguing combination of portability and power. It is equipped with a 3,000mAh battery that can be quickly recharged using Blaupunkt's TurcoVolt charging technology. This allows the speaker to operate for extended periods at full volume. Additionally, the PS30 Pro features RGB lights that create a visually captivating party atmosphere. These lights can provide a visual show that complements the music. With its German engineering excellence, the PS30 Pro embodies Blaupunkt's commitment to reliability, trustworthiness, dependability, and longevity.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Blaupunkt PS30 Pro portable powerful speaker is priced at Rs. 2,999 (~$36) in India. It is exclusively available for purchase on Amazon India, with the possibility of expanding its availability to other markets. Blaupunkt is confident that the PS30 Pro will be warmly received in India, aligning with the company's philosophy and reputation for excellence.

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  • Pre-Order the Redmi Desktop Speaker with RGB lights in China at an Affordable Price of 199 Yuan ($27)

    Pre-Order the Redmi Desktop Speaker with RGB lights in China at an Affordable Price of 199 Yuan ($27)

    Redmi Launches Its First Desktop Speaker for Pre-Order in China

    Xiaomi’s sub-brand, Redmi, has recently introduced its first audio peripheral designed specifically for desktop devices. The Redmi Desktop Speaker is now available for pre-order through all channels in China, starting from December 7th. This sleek and stylish speaker comes with a competitive price tag of 199 yuan (~$27).

    Design and Distinctive Features

    The Redmi computer speaker boasts a unique and eye-catching design. It features a sleek cylindrical one-piece structure, embellished with exquisite mesh fabric and a vibrant RGB light strip. The combination of these elements creates a fashionable and modern aesthetic.

    When it comes to sound quality, the Redmi computer speakers deliver a well-balanced performance across various frequencies, including high, medium, and low ranges. The speakers are designed with a 53° tilt angle architecture specifically for desktop use, ensuring optimal sound projection. In fact, the speakers have received high scores in a double-blind test conducted by the Golden Ear Laboratory, earning them the prestigious “CGEC Golden Ear Preferred Product” honorary certificate.

    The Redmi Desktop Speaker also offers five different lighting effects through its light strip. In the pickup rhythm mode, the DSP (Digital Signal Processor) intelligently analyzes the music spectrum, allowing the light strip to respond in real-time and creating a dynamic visual experience for users.

    Moreover, these computer speakers are equipped with built-in hidden microphones, making them versatile for various tasks such as voice calls, online classes, remote meetings, and online gaming. Redmi has taken into consideration the diverse needs of users by combining aesthetics with functionality, promising an immersive audiovisual experience for desktop users.

    Advanced Connectivity Options

    Redmi has ensured that their desktop speakers offer advanced connectivity options. The speakers support USB one-line connection, which combines USB-A and Type-C interfaces into one, providing convenience and versatility. Additionally, these speakers support low-latency Bluetooth 5.0 technology, allowing for seamless wireless connections. For users who prefer a wired connection, the Redmi computer speakers come equipped with a 3.5mm audio output interface.

    With its impressive design, sound quality, and advanced connectivity options, the Redmi Desktop Speaker aims to cater to the needs of desktop users who seek both functionality and style. The pre-order availability in China makes it accessible to a wide range of consumers.

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  • Introducing the boAt Stone Majestic Riverdale Rocker: An Indian Launch with Retro Design and Built-In Subwoofer

    Introducing the boAt Stone Majestic Riverdale Rocker: An Indian Launch with Retro Design and Built-In Subwoofer

    boAt Stone Majestic Riverdale Rocker: A Retro Design Bluetooth Speaker

    boAt, the popular Indian brand, has recently launched its latest limited edition Bluetooth speaker in partnership with OTT streaming giant Netflix. Named the boAt Stone Majestic Riverdale Rocker, this speaker is designed to connect with The Archies universe’s music theme, featuring the brand’s founder dancing to the boAt jingle. Let’s take a closer look at what this speaker has to offer.

    Retro Design with Dual-Toned Aesthetic

    The boAt Stone Majestic Riverdale Rocker boasts a retro design that resembles Marshall’s speakers. It sports a rectangular form factor with a unique dual-toned design. The back half of the speaker features a wooden surface, while the front half showcases a black-colored textured pattern. At the front, there is a rotating control knob that adds to its vintage charm. The top panel of the speaker is equipped with six physical buttons, reminiscent of classic speakers.

    Powerful Audio Performance

    When it comes to audio performance, the boAt Stone Majestic Riverdale Rocker doesn’t disappoint. It comes with 30W dual speakers and a 4-inch 30W built-in sub-woofer, delivering a total output of 90W sound. This ensures a rich and immersive audio experience. Additionally, the speaker offers dual EQ modes specifically optimized for movies and music, allowing users to tailor the sound according to their preferences.

    Versatile Connectivity Options and Long Battery Life

    The boAt Stone Majestic Riverdale Rocker provides various connectivity options to cater to different user needs. It supports Bluetooth, AUX, USB, and HDMI connections, making it compatible with a wide range of devices. This versatility ensures that users can easily connect their preferred devices to the speaker and enjoy their favorite content.

    In terms of battery life, the boAt Stone Majestic Riverdale Rocker offers up to 7 hours of playback time on a single charge. This allows users to enjoy uninterrupted music and entertainment without worrying about running out of power.

    Pricing and Availability

    The boAt Stone Majestic Riverdale Rocker is priced at Rs 9,999 and is currently available for pre-orders exclusively on the brand’s official website. This limited edition Bluetooth speaker is expected to be in high demand due to its unique design and partnership with Netflix.

    In conclusion, the boAt Stone Majestic Riverdale Rocker is a Bluetooth speaker that combines retro aesthetics with powerful audio performance. With its dual-toned design, versatile connectivity options, and long battery life, this speaker is a compelling option for music and entertainment enthusiasts.

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  • Ahead of launch, battery life of Vivo TWS 3e hinted in teaser

    Ahead of launch, battery life of Vivo TWS 3e hinted in teaser

    Vivo TWS 3e Earbuds: Teased Specs and Features

    Vivo is all set to introduce its latest offering, the Vivo S18 series of smartphones, in China. However, the launch event will not only showcase smartphones but also the Vivo TWS 3e earbuds. Ahead of the official release, the key specifications of these truly wireless earbuds have been teased.

    Vivo TWS 3e Specs

    The upcoming hearables and S18 series are scheduled to be unveiled on December 14, 2023. The Vivo TWS 3e was previously spotted on various certification platforms, including TDRA, SIRIM, and SDPPI, indicating an imminent launch. A recent teaser also revealed that the wireless earbuds will be available in a Blue and White color option.

    Now, a new teaser has revealed additional details about the Vivo TWS 3e. The earbuds will boast a remarkable 44-hour battery life on a single full charge when used with their charging case. Furthermore, they will support fast charging. One of the standout features is the inclusion of intelligent ANC (Active Noise Cancellation), ensuring an immersive surround sound experience.

    Design and More

    From the images, it can be observed that the Vivo TWS 3e has a pebble-like charging case and in-ear earbuds with silicone tips. Unfortunately, this is all the information available about the new wireless earbuds at the moment. Stay tuned as we will provide updates on any new teasers and cover the launch event later this month.

    The Vivo TWS 3e earbuds promise to deliver impressive battery life, fast charging, and immersive sound quality with intelligent ANC. With the launch event just around the corner, Vivo fans can look forward to the unveiling of these highly anticipated wireless earbuds along with the S18 series of smartphones.

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  • EarFun Introduces the Free Pro 3: The First Ever Snapdragon Sound and Hi-Res ANC Earbuds

    EarFun Introduces the Free Pro 3: The First Ever Snapdragon Sound and Hi-Res ANC Earbuds

    EarFun has recently introduced their latest addition to their lineup of earbuds, the EarFun Free Pro 3. These earbuds are being promoted as the first-ever true wireless stereo (TWS) earbuds to feature active noise cancellation (ANC) and support for Hi Res Audio and Snapdragon Sound. With its dual TWS earbuds design and hybrid active noise cancellation architecture, the Free Pro 3 offers an enhanced listening experience. Furthermore, these earbuds boast an impressive battery life and the convenience of wireless charging.

    Enhanced Features for Optimal Performance

    The EarFun Free Pro 3 earbuds are equipped with a range of features that ensure optimal performance. The model incorporates a refreshed QCC 3072 Qualcomm audio chip that powers the aptX Adaptive Audio codec. It also utilizes QuietSmart 2.0 hybrid active noise cancellation technology, allowing users to enjoy their music without any distractions. Additionally, the earbuds support Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, enhancing the clarity of audio transmission.

    Impressive Noise Cancellation and Improved Stability

    The Free Pro 3 earbuds offer an impressive noise cancellation capability of up to 43dB, creating an immersive audio experience. For added stability, the buds are designed to support removable in-ear hooks. With six built-in microphones, the earbuds also feature Qualcomm cVc 8.0 Echo Cancelling and Noise Suppression technology, ensuring clear and crisp phone calls.

    Convenient Charging and Extended Battery Life

    The charging case of the EarFun Free Pro 3 earbuds is sleek and compact, setting it apart from most other cases in the market. It supports both USB Type-C and wireless charging, providing users with flexibility and convenience. The battery system of the earbuds, including the charging case, can deliver up to 33 hours of continuous usage on a single charge. Thanks to the Low-Energy Audio Bluetooth protocol enabled by Snapdragon Sound, the device operates with low energy consumption.

    Pricing and Availability

    The EarFun Free Pro 3 TWS earbuds are currently available exclusively from EarFun and Amazon. They are offered in three color options: black, white, and navy blue. The Free Pro 3 is priced at $79.99, making it an attractive option for consumers seeking high-quality earbuds with advanced features. The company has also hinted at the possibility of expanding availability to other platforms in the future.

    In summary, the EarFun Free Pro 3 earbuds bring together cutting-edge technology and innovative features to deliver an exceptional audio experience. With its ANC capabilities, support for Hi Res Audio and Snapdragon Sound, and extended battery life, these earbuds are a compelling choice for those seeking a premium listening experience.

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  • China witnesses the launch of Meizu’s PANDAER 1s: Gaming and noise-canceling earphones

    China witnesses the launch of Meizu’s PANDAER 1s: Gaming and noise-canceling earphones

    Meizu has recently introduced two new earphone models in the market – PANDAER Gaming Earphones 1s and PANDAER Noise-Canceling Earphones 1s. These earphones are now available for purchase on various e-commerce platforms in China. Each model is designed to cater to different user needs and preferences, offering unique features and designs.

    Meizu PANDAER Earphones Specifications

    PANDAER Noise-Canceling Earphones 1s

    The PANDAER Noise-Canceling Earphones 1s are priced at 399 yuan ($55). These earphones come with an in-ear design, featuring a shorter handle and a stylish metal body. The earphones are made using CNC-integrated molding technology, ensuring a premium and high-quality feel. The materials used include robust aluminum alloy.

    The charging case of these earphones has an octagonal shape and is decorated with platinum unicorn family-style paint in grey and white, complemented with gold accents. The PANDAER Noise-Canceling Earphones 1s are tailored to deliver high-fidelity sound quality, thanks to the upgraded Meizu acoustic EQ tuning. They also feature a 38dB intelligent noise cancellation function, ensuring an immersive audio experience. The earphones offer an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours and come with LED battery level indicators. Additionally, they support Flyme Smart Connection, making it easy to pair them with Meizu devices.

    PANDAER Gaming Earphones 1s

    The PANDAER Gaming Earphones 1s start at 299 yuan ($41). These earphones have a semi-in-ear design and stand out with their brown transparent earplugs and white handle, following the "Comet Fluid Design" concept.

    The charging case of the PANDAER Gaming Earphones 1s is predominantly black and features a rotating opening mechanism. It is also enhanced with LED lighting effects, adding a touch of style. These earphones are equipped with a 13mm large dynamic driver and have a sensitivity of 105dB, ensuring high-resolution audio output. With a low latency of just 0.035s, they are ideal for gaming and music enthusiasts. The PANDAER Gaming Earphones 1s offer up to 28 hours of wireless charging and feature Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) for clear calls. Similar to the noise-canceling earphones, these earphones also support Flyme Smart Connection.

    Comparison of Features

    When it comes to wireless connectivity, the PANDAER Noise-Canceling Earphones 1s utilize Bluetooth 5.4, while the PANDAER Gaming Earphones 1s use Bluetooth 5.3. In terms of durability, the noise-canceling earphones have an IPX1 waterproof rating, providing protection against daily life conditions. On the other hand, the gaming earphones have an IPX4 splash resistance rating, ensuring durability even in slightly more demanding environments.

    Overall, Meizu's PANDAER earphone models offer a range of features and designs to cater to different user preferences. Whether you are looking for noise cancellation and high-fidelity sound or low latency for gaming, these earphones have you covered. With their competitive pricing and reliable specifications, they are worth considering for your audio needs.

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  • Xiaomi Launches Affordable Redmi Desktop Speaker with Dynamic RGB Lights in China for 199 yuan ($27)

    Xiaomi Launches Affordable Redmi Desktop Speaker with Dynamic RGB Lights in China for 199 yuan ($27)

    Xiaomi’s Redmi Brand Unveils Fresh Soundbar for Computers

    Modern Aesthetics and Engaging Illumination

    The Redmi computer soundbar presents a modern cylindrical structure donning a matte grey appearance, coupled with RGB ambient lighting that harmonizes with the audio rhythm.

    High-Quality Sound Output

    Equipped with Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology, the Redmi computer sound system ensures optimal audio output across various applications such as music, gaming, and movies.

    Competitive Pricing

    The Redmi Desktop Speaker, packed with advanced functionalities, maintains an attractive price point of 199 yuan ($27), catering to budget-conscious consumers.

    Information Availability

    As of now, official sources have not disclosed further information, and the product is yet to be featured on the Xiaomi online store.

    Past Audio Product Launch

    Redmi had previously rolled out the Redmi TV Soundbar, equipped with two 30W speakers and a variety of connectivity choices, enhancing user convenience.

    Overall Impression

    Xiaomi’s Redmi brand is diversifying its audio product portfolio with the launch of the Redmi Desktop Speaker, promising a sophisticated design, captivating lighting effects, and top-tier audio performance to enrich the desktop audio landscape.

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  • Xiaomi Launches Redmi Buds 5 Pro Gaming Edition in China at 499 Yuan ($70)

    Xiaomi Launches Redmi Buds 5 Pro Gaming Edition in China at 499 Yuan ($70)

    Xiaomi Unveils Redmi Buds 5 Pro Gaming Edition

    Last week, Xiaomi introduced the Redmi Buds 5 Pro Gaming Edition alongside the Redmi K70 series. These earphones are currently available for purchase at a price of 499 yuan ($70) and feature a unique orange-black color combination that sets them apart.

    Key Specs of Redmi Buds 5 Pro

    The Redmi Buds 5 Pro is designed with a semi-in-ear stem and silicone ear tips to ensure comfortable wear. These earphones are equipped with a 10mm tweeter for clear treble and an 11mm dynamic subwoofer for powerful bass. They utilize 20ms latency full-link technology, which guarantees low latency during gaming sessions. The earbuds also come with Type-C connectivity, LHDC 5.0 codec, and Hi-Res wireless audio support, ensuring lossless audio quality.

    Impressive Noise Reduction and Adaptive Adjustment

    These earbuds offer an impressive 52dB noise reduction and AI adaptive adjustment. With the help of a 4kHz ultra-wide noise reduction frequency band, they adapt to the surrounding environment for an optimal listening experience. Additionally, the Redmi Buds 5 Pro provides spatial audio, delivering a 360-degree sound experience. It also includes a three-level transparency mode for situational awareness.

    Long Battery Life and IP54 Rating

    When it comes to battery life, the Redmi Buds 5 Pro offers 2 hours of playback with just 5 minutes of quick charging. The total battery life extends to 38 hours, with 10 hours of usage for a single earphone without active noise cancellation (ANC) and 6.5 hours with ANC enabled. Moreover, these earbuds have an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, making them suitable for various environments.

    Professional Audio Certifications

    Furthermore, the Redmi Buds 5 Pro holds three prestigious professional audio certifications. It has received a dual certification from QQ Music for "Premium Master Tape" and "Premium Spatial Audio." Additionally, it has been certified by NetEase Cloud Music as "NetEase Cloud Audio" and by Kugou Music as "Viper Panoramic Sound."

    With its impressive features and affordable price, the Redmi Buds 5 Pro Gaming Edition is a compelling choice for gamers and audio enthusiasts alike.

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  • Samsung and Google Introduce New 3D Audio Standard, Posing a Challenge to Dolby Atmos

    Samsung and Google Introduce New 3D Audio Standard, Posing a Challenge to Dolby Atmos

    Samsung and Google recently announced their collaboration on a new open-source 3D spatial audio technology named Immersive Audio Model and Formats (IAMF). This development poses a potential challenge to the dominance of Dolby Atmos in the market.

    Addressing Limitations in Existing Solutions

    The motivation behind the creation of IAMF was the recognition of limitations in current 3D audio solutions, including Dolby Atmos. Samsung’s research team discovered that existing technologies often fail to accurately interpret 3D sound information, leading to a diminished audio experience.

    Key Features of IAMF

    IAMF aims to overcome these shortcomings by incorporating three crucial features: vertical sound, AI scene analysis, and user-customized audio. WooHyun Nam from Samsung Research’s Visual Technology Team explained that IAMF enhances sound realism by allowing listeners to experience audio from various directions, including in front, behind, to the sides, as well as above or below them. This means that when IAMF technology is integrated into home TV speakers and soundbars, users can expect to hear sounds like birds flying overhead on their TVs.

    IAMF also utilizes AI and deep learning algorithms to intelligently analyze scenes and adjust audio levels accordingly. For example, during scenes with prominent background music or soundtracks, IAMF balances the sound to ensure that the main focus remains on the dialogue.

    Furthermore, IAMF offers personalized audio customization options, allowing users to tailor the audio to their preferences. These options include adjusting the intensity of sound effects in action scenes or enhancing the clarity of dialogue during conversations.

    Samsung’s Shift in Strategy

    Samsung’s adoption of Dolby Atmos in its TVs in 2022 demonstrated the company’s commitment to providing immersive audio experiences. However, the decision to prioritize its own HDR10+ format over Dolby Vision raised questions about its future relationship with Dolby Atmos.

    The introduction of IAMF suggests that Samsung may be charting its own course in the 3D spatial audio space, potentially indicating a shift away from Dolby Atmos in future Samsung TVs. By partnering with Google and developing their own open-source solution, Samsung aims to offer a competitive alternative to existing audio technologies.

    In conclusion, Samsung and Google’s collaborative effort in creating IAMF showcases their ambition to challenge the dominance of Dolby Atmos in the market. With its unique features like vertical sound, AI scene analysis, and user-customized audio, IAMF aims to provide an enhanced and personalized audio experience for users. Samsung’s decision to pursue its own path in the 3D spatial audio space through IAMF may signify a potential departure from Dolby Atmos in their future TV offerings.

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  • Spotify to Cut Nearly 1500 Jobs Companywide

    Spotify to Cut Nearly 1500 Jobs Companywide

    Spotify, the popular music streaming platform, has recently made a surprising announcement regarding a significant reduction in its workforce. This decision, made by CEO Daniel Ek, will affect 17% of the company's employees and is aimed at addressing financial challenges and aligning operational costs with financial goals.

    Spotify's Growth and Financial Challenges

    Despite a strong performance and positive earnings report, Ek explained that the company had to make a tough choice between making smaller reductions over the next two years or taking decisive action now. Ultimately, Ek opted for the latter, emphasizing the need for a substantial adjustment to ensure the company's costs are in line with its objectives. While acknowledging the pain this decision would cause for the affected employees, Ek believes it is necessary for the company's long-term success.

    The backdrop to this decision is Spotify's rapid expansion in 2020 and 2021, which was fueled by lower capital costs. These investments paid off and contributed to the company's growth. However, despite previous layoffs in early 2023 and May, which resulted in a reduction of about 8% of the workforce, Ek noted that the company's cost structure still remained too large for its future needs.

    Impact on Employees and Transition Support

    Approximately 1,500 employees will be impacted by this latest round of layoffs. To ease the transition, Spotify has planned to offer an average of five months of severance pay to the affected employees. They will also receive healthcare coverage during this period, as well as immigration and career support.

    Adopting a Leaner Operational Model

    Ek's announcement highlights the importance for Spotify to adopt a leaner operational model in its next phase. This comes after the introduction of a revamped royalty model, which aims to increase payouts to working artists while reducing fraudulent streams. By streamlining its operations and reducing costs, Spotify aims to position itself for sustainable growth and profitability in the future.

    Continuing User Growth and Profitability

    Despite the challenges, Spotify has consistently grown its user base and now boasts 574 million monthly active users, which is a 26% increase year-over-year. However, achieving profitability has been elusive for the company, with rare profits reported in recent quarters. Ek has promised to provide more details on the implications of these changes in the coming weeks, shedding light on how Spotify plans to navigate its financial challenges while continuing to serve its growing user base.

    In conclusion, Spotify's recent announcement regarding a significant workforce reduction reflects the company's efforts to address financial challenges and align its operational costs with its financial goals. While this decision will undoubtedly have an impact on employees, Spotify is committed to providing support during the transition period. By adopting a leaner operational model, the company aims to position itself for long-term success and profitability.

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