Tag: Bluetooth 5.2

  • Xiaomi SonicBass 2 Headphones Now Available in Europe

    Xiaomi SonicBass 2 Headphones Now Available in Europe

    Key Takeaway

    – Xiaomi Redmi SonicBass 2 available in Germany for €34.90, with limited availability and no official local launch.
    – Specs include 9.2mm drivers, Bluetooth 5.2, neckband-style cable, USB-C port, and 16-hour battery life.
    – IPX5 water resistance protects against sweat, but lacks active noise cancellation (ANC).
    – Cable design prevents earbud loss during sports but may be bothersome; ear hooks are an alternative.
    – Best for non-ANC-tolerant users; traffic noise may be an issue during outdoor use.

    It’s been almost six years since we reported on the Xiaomi Redmi SonicBass

    Back then, hardware was a little cheaper and our hair a little less gray. Now, the successor headphones are available from a retailer based in Germany for €34,90, but immediate availability isn’t guaranteed. The headphones are expected to arrive no later than Saturday, July 4. This puts the SonicBass 2 on the list of Xiaomi products that apparently aren’t officially launching or are rather trickling into the local market.

    The product specifications are already known

    Featuring 9.2-millimeter drivers, the SonicBass 2 are rather unusual headphones that connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth 5.2, but are connected to each other by a cable. The center section apparently houses not only the USB-C port but also the battery, which is said to allow for approximately 16 hours of music playback. According to Xiaomi, the headphones are protected against dust and water damage in accordance with IPX5 and so should not be damaged by sweat.

    Whether the SonicBass 2 are suitable for sports likely depends on personal preference

    I used headphones like these with an extension cable for a while years ago, even during intense running workouts. One thing is clear: if a earbud falls out of your ear, the earbud itself usually doesn’t fall to the ground thanks to the cable. However, such a cable can definately be bothersome. For athletes, (open-back) headphones with ear hooks, such as the Belkin SoundForm Clear Fit, may be an alternative. Traffic noise may also be a problem with the SonicBass 2, as active noise cancellation (ANC) is not supported.

    • Price: €34,90 from a German retailer
    • Drivers: 9.2-millimeter
    • Bluetooth: 5.2
    • Battery life: Up to 16 hours music playback
    • Water/dust resistance: IPX5
    • No ANC support
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  • Xiaomi Launches Sound 2 Pro Hi-Fi Speaker with Metal Enclosure

    Xiaomi Launches Sound 2 Pro Hi-Fi Speaker with Metal Enclosure

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has launched the Sound 2 Pro as a budget-friendly alternative to the Sound 2 Max, featuring a simpler design.
    2. The Sound 2 Pro has a single mid-woofer and tweeter, reaching a maximum volume of 96.3 dB, lower than the Sound 2 Max’s 101 dB.
    3. It offers a frequency response range of 53 Hz to 21.7 kHz, compared to the Sound 2 Max’s 47 Hz to 22 kHz.
    4. The Sound 2 Pro supports pairing with up to four units simultaneously and includes Bluetooth 5.2 and WiFi 6 connectivity.
    5. Priced at CNY 1,399 (around $201), the Sound 2 Pro is CNY 600 (about $86) cheaper than the Sound 2 Max, but international availability is still unclear.

    Xiaomi has refreshed its speaker lineup by introducing a more budget-friendly alternative to the Sound 2 Max, which was released at the end of the previous year. The Sound 2 Max is a larger speaker compared to Xiaomi’s portable models, such as the Sound Outdoor, which is currently priced at $49.99 on Amazon. It boasts two 4-inch woofers, a mid-range driver, and a dedicated tweeter, allowing it to reach volumes of up to 101 dB per speaker.

    New Features of the Sound 2 Pro

    In contrast, the recently launched Sound 2 Pro comes with a single mid-woofer and a tweeter, with 40 W power dedicated to the woofer and 20 W for the tweeter. This means that the Sound 2 Pro falls short of the Sound 2 Max in terms of maximum loudness, with a peak volume of 96.3 dB listed on Xiaomi’s website. Additionally, the frequency response range for the Sound 2 Pro is between 53 Hz and 21.7 kHz, whereas the Sound 2 Max offers a range of 47 Hz to 22 kHz. However, a notable feature of the Sound 2 Pro is its ability to pair with up to four units at the same time, unlike Apple’s HomePod speakers.

    Connectivity and Controls

    Returning features include physical controls, as well as RCA and USB Type-C ports for both analog and digital audio inputs. The Sound 2 Pro also supports Bluetooth 5.2 and WiFi 6 connectivity, along with a proprietary transmission standard that works with its Sound Wireless Audio Connector accessory. The current retail price for the Sound 2 Pro is CNY 1,399 (around $201), which represents a saving of CNY 600 (about $86) compared to the Sound 2 Max. However, Xiaomi has yet to provide details about an international release for this speaker.

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  • Xiaomi Sound 2 Max Hi-Fi Speaker: 4 Drivers, 100 Watts Power

    Xiaomi Sound 2 Max Hi-Fi Speaker: 4 Drivers, 100 Watts Power

    Key Takeaways

    1. Design and Dimensions: The Xiaomi Sound 2 Max features a simple metal design, measuring 14.3 × 7.8 × 5.3 inches and weighing about 18 lbs.

    2. Audio Configuration: It includes four drivers: two 4-inch woofers with 30-watt amplifiers, a midrange driver, and a tweeter, delivering sound frequencies from 47Hz to 22kHz at a peak volume of 101dB.

    3. Wireless Capabilities: Users can pair two speakers for stereo sound or connect up to four for surround sound, but it does not support a dedicated subwoofer.

    4. Connectivity Options: The speaker offers RCA and USB-C for wired connections, as well as Bluetooth 5.2 and WiFi 6 for wireless, but does not support Apple AirPlay or Google Cast.

    5. Price and Customization: The Xiaomi Sound 2 Max is priced at approximately $290 in China, with options for fabric, metal, or wood front covers for personalization.

    Xiaomi has just unveiled its latest speaker, which boasts a simple yet elegant metal design. The dimensions of this speaker are 14.3 × 7.8 × 5.3 inches, and its weight is about 18 lbs. Inside the stylish casing, it incorporates four drivers. To be precise, there are two 4-inch woofers, each paired with a 30-watt amplifier. Additionally, it features a midrange driver and a tweeter, which form part of a coaxial driver setup that is driven by a 30-watt and a 10-watt amplifier.

    Sound Performance

    With this configuration, Xiaomi aims to deliver sound frequencies ranging from 47Hz to 22kHz and achieve a peak volume of 101dB. Users have the option to pair two Xiaomi Sound 2 Max speakers for wireless stereo sound, or even connect four units together to set up a surround sound experience. However, it’s important to note that Xiaomi does not allow for the addition of a dedicated subwoofer to the system. The speaker has buttons on the top for easy control of playback and volume adjustments.

    Connectivity Options

    For music playback, the Xiaomi Sound 2 Max can be connected through RCA or USB-C for wired connections, while wireless options include Bluetooth 5.2 and WiFi 6. It is worth mentioning that this speaker only supports a proprietary transmission format, meaning that options like Apple AirPlay or Google Cast are not available. Users can utilize a dedicated smartphone application to tweak the sound using an equalizer. Moreover, built-in microphones are included for users who want to access an AI voice assistant.

    The Xiaomi Sound 2 Max is priced at approximately $290 in China per unit. Customers have the choice of a fabric, metal, or wood front cover, allowing for some personalization.

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    Xiaomi Sound 2 Max Hi-Fi Speaker: 4 Drivers, 100 Watts PowerXiaomi Sound 2 Max Hi-Fi Speaker: 4 Drivers, 100 Watts PowerXiaomi Sound 2 Max Hi-Fi Speaker: 4 Drivers, 100 Watts PowerXiaomi Sound 2 Max Hi-Fi Speaker: 4 Drivers, 100 Watts PowerXiaomi Sound 2 Max Hi-Fi Speaker: 4 Drivers, 100 Watts Power

     

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  • Huawei FreeBuds 6 Launch: Unique Design & Improved Battery Life

    Huawei FreeBuds 6 Launch: Unique Design & Improved Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lighter Design: Each earbud weighs 4.9 grams and the charging case weighs 40.3 grams, making them lighter than the FreeBuds 5.

    2. Enhanced Sound Quality: Improved frequency range from 16Hz-40KHz to 14Hz-48KHz, with a dual-magnetic driver unit still in use.

    3. Better Battery Life: Up to 6 hours of playback without ANC and 4.5 hours with ANC, plus a total of 36 hours with the charging case, which is an increase from the FreeBuds 5.

    4. Charging Features: The charging case supports wired and wireless charging, fast charging capabilities, and has a 510mAh battery.

    5. Price and Availability: The FreeBuds 6 are priced at €159 and will be available for purchase through Huawei’s online store.

    Huawei recently revealed its newest set of truly wireless earbuds, the FreeBuds 6. These earbuds maintain the distinctive open-fit style seen in the FreeBuds 5, but they come with several significant enhancements.

    Color Options and Weight

    The FreeBuds 6 can be purchased in Black, White, and Purple, and they are now lighter, with each earbud weighing 4.9 grams compared to the FreeBuds 5, which weighs 5.4 grams each. Additionally, the charging case is lighter too, weighing only 40.3 grams, in contrast to the 45 grams of the previous model.

    Design and Sound Quality

    These earbuds still hold an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, and they continue to use a dual-magnetic driver unit. However, Huawei has improved the frequency range from 16Hz-40KHz on the FreeBuds 5 to a broader 14Hz-48KHz on the FreeBuds 6.

    The lighter design is attributed to a smaller battery inside. Each earbud now has a 39.5mAh battery, down from 42mAh in the previous version, but this change hasn’t harmed battery life. In fact, it is now even better.

    Battery Life and Charging

    Huawei claims that the FreeBuds 6 can offer up to 6 hours of playback time without Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and 4.5 hours with ANC active, which is an hour longer than the FreeBuds 5 (which is currently priced at €129.99 on Amazon.de). The total listening time with the case is 36 hours without ANC and 27 hours with it, an increase from the FreeBuds 5’s 30 hours and 20 hours. The charging case has a 510mAh battery and allows both wired and wireless charging, plus it supports fast charging, with just 5 minutes providing up to 2.5 hours of playback.

    The FreeBuds 6 features Bluetooth 5.2 and is compatible with A2DP, HFP 1.7, and AVRCP 1.6. It also supports various codecs like LDAC, AAC, and SBC. Each earbud includes three microphones, and Huawei states they have earned Hi-Res Audio Wireless Certification. These earbuds are compatible with both iOS and Android devices.

    Purchase Information

    The Huawei FreeBuds 6 come with a price of €159 and will be available for purchase through Huawei’s online store.

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  • Koss Launches Wireless Update of Iconic Porta Pro Headphones

    Koss Launches Wireless Update of Iconic Porta Pro Headphones

    The Koss Porta Pros have been beloved since they launched in 1984. Their distinctive design and exceptional sound quality at a reasonable price have kept enthusiasts engaged through various updates in the series. The latest version, the Porta Pro Wireless, brings a significant design update that fans will appreciate.

    Wireless Features and Battery Life

    A standout feature of the Porta Pro Wireless is its use of Bluetooth 5.2 for wireless connection. While it may not be the newest Bluetooth version, the energy efficiency of Bluetooth 5.2 enhances battery performance, allowing for over 20 hours of playtime. Users can also manage calls and adjust volume thanks to an integrated microphone and audio controls. Charging is done via USB-C, and if the battery runs low, the USB-C port supports analog audio pass-through with the provided USB-C to 3.5 mm cable.

    Innovative Design Elements

    One of the most noteworthy design changes is the introduction of the dual steel headband. This new dual-band design allows audio to be transmitted between the two drivers, creating a truly wireless experience. Fans will be pleased to know that the Porta Pro Wireless retains the 60-ohm drivers that were a hallmark of the original Porta Pros. These drivers are celebrated for delivering powerful bass, clear highs, and excellent midrange frequencies ranging from 15 to 25,000 Hz.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Porta Pro Wireless is available for $99 on Amazon, and interested buyers can also check the Koss website for additional promotional offers.

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  • Creative Unveils Zen Hybrid 2 Wireless Over-Ear Headset – Bluetooth 5.2 at 399 Yuan

    Creative Unveils Zen Hybrid 2 Wireless Over-Ear Headset – Bluetooth 5.2 at 399 Yuan

    Latest Bluetooth Headset with Impressive Attributes: Creative ZEN Hybrid 2

    Key Features of ZEN Hybrid 2

    Offering an immersive auditory journey, the ZEN Hybrid 2 boasts:

    • Advanced 40mm neodymium drivers
    • Broad frequency response spanning 20-20,000 Hz
    • Impressive sensitivity at 116dB
    • Operating impedance of 32 ohms
    • Cutting-edge Bluetooth 5.2 technology
    • Supported profiles: A2DP, AVRCP, HFP
    • AAC and SBC audio codecs for superior sound
    • Integration of hybrid active noise reduction
    • Enhanced by the presence of four ANC microphones
    • Noise suppression capability extends up to -30 dB

    Unmatched Battery Performance

    • Equipped with a robust 600mAh battery
    • Prolonged battery life reaching 67 hours without ANC
    • With ANC activated, enjoy 49 hours of uninterrupted usage
    • Quick-charge functionality, granting 5 hours of listening on just a 5-minute charge

    Further Specifications and Market Availability

    • Weighing in at 271 grams
    • Available in classic black and milky hues
    • Bundled accessories: 3.5mm stereo audio cable, USB-C to USB-A charging cable, quick start guide
    • Priced competitively at 399 yuan ($56)
    • Backed by a 1-year limited hardware warranty for added peace of mind
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