Tag: High-Resolution Audio

  • Audeze MM-520 Planar Headphones for Music Producers

    Audeze MM-520 Planar Headphones for Music Producers

    Key Takeaway

    – Flagship open-ear monitoring headphones with planar driver technology for reduced distortion
    – SLAM technology enhances low bass reproduction
    – Frequency response from 5 Hz to 50 kHz with less than 0.1% THD
    – User-replaceable memory foam earpads with magnetic mounts
    – Priced at $1,699, available from Audeze website and Amazon

    New Flagship Headphone from Audeze

    Audeze has released the MM-520, its latest flagship monitoring headphone. It is designed for accurate sound reproduction in an open-ear design that provides a wide soundstage. The headphones utilize the company’s latest planar driver technologies to handle the latest high resolution music mixes.

    How Planar Technology Works

    Planar headphones vibrate an ultra-thin, flat transducer rather than convenional cone drivers, with the goal of reducing distortion. They incorporate the company’s Symmetric Linear Acoustic Modulator (SLAM) technology to enhance low bass reproduction.

    Extreme Frequency Range and Power Handling

    The MM-520 are able to cover a frequency range of 5 Hz to 50 kHz with a total harmonic distortion less than 0.1% (at 100dB SPL, 1 kHz) as a result. They handle a maximum input of 5-watts to produce sounds as loud as 130 dB SPL.

    Physical Specifications and Accessories

    The 555 g (19.6 oz.) headphones come with memory foam earpads that can be replaced by the user thanks to their magnetic mounts. They come with a 2.5 m (8.2 ft.) headphone cable, 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm adaptor, a travel case, and a soft carry bag.

    Pricing and Availibility

    The MM-520 monitoring headphones are priced at $1,699 and can be purchased from the Audeze website. Readers can also look for them to arrive.

    • Frequency range: 5 Hz – 50 kHz
    • Total harmonic distortion: less than 0.1% at 100dB SPL, 1 kHz
    • Maximum input: 5 watts for 130 dB SPL
    • Weight: 555 g (19.6 oz.)
    • Included: memory foam earpads with magnetic mounts, 2.5 m cable, 3.5 to 6.3 mm adapter, travel case, soft carry bag
    • Price: $1,699 USD


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  • Audeze Launches MM-520 Planar Open Headphones for Producers

    Audeze Launches MM-520 Planar Open Headphones for Producers

    Key Takeaway

    – Flagship open-ear monitoring headphones with planar magnetic drivers for low distortion
    – Utilizes SLAM technology to enhance low-frequency bass response
    – Frequency range of 5 Hz to 50 kHz with <0.1% THD at 100dB SPL – User-replaceable memory foam earpads with magnetic mounts – Priced at $1,699.

    New Audeze MM-520 Flagship Headphone Released

    Audeze has droped the MM-520, there latest flagship monitoring headphone. These are designd for accurate sound reproduction in an open-ear design what provides a wide soundstage. The headphones utilize the company’s latest planar driver technologies to handle the latest high resolution music mixes, giving you better detail in your audio.

    Planar Driver and SLAM Technology Details

    Planar headphones vibrate an ultra-thin, flat transducer rather then convenional cone drivers, with the goal of reducing distortion. They incorporate the company’s Symmetric Linear Acoustic Modulator (SLAM) technology to enhance low bass reproduction. This is important for getting that deep and precise bass response that professionals need.

    Frequency Range and Power Handling Specifications

    The MM-520 are able to cover a frequency range of 5 Hz to 50 kHz with a total harmonic distortion less than 0.1% (at 100dB SPL, 1 kHz) as a result, while handling a maximum input of 5-watts to produce sounds as loud as 130 dB SPL. That means you can mix at high volumes without any unwanted noise or distorion.

    Physical Features and Accessories Included

    The 555 g (19.6 oz.) headphones come with memory foam earpads that can be replaced by the user thanks to their magnetic mounts. They come with a 2.5 m (8.2 ft.) headphone cable, 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm adaptor, a travel case, and a soft carry bag. This bundle gives you everything you need for studio use or on the go.

    Pricing and Availability Information

    The MM-520 monitoring headphones are priced at $1,699 and can be purchased from the Audeze website. Readers can also look for them to arrive in the Audeze store on Amazon. Additional details and updates are available through Audeze, and also Audeze on Facebook for social media followers.


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  • Colorful Mondrian USB-C DAC Now Available in Japan

    Colorful Mondrian USB-C DAC Now Available in Japan

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Artpical Mondrian USB DAC features an ESS ES9281AC Pro chip for lossless music playback.
    2. It supports high-resolution audio formats, including 32-bit, 768 kHz PCM, DSD512, and MQA.
    3. The DAC has a signal-to-noise ratio of 118 dB when used with 4.4 mm balanced headphones.
    4. Connectivity is provided through a USB-C port, and headphone gain can be adjusted across three settings.
    5. The price in Japan ranges from 37,800 to 42,000 yen, while in the U.S., it is available for pre-order at $250.

    Artpical has introduced the Mondrian USB DAC aimed at audiophiles in Japan. This DAC features an ESS ES9281AC Pro chip, enabling it to handle lossless music playback. Its aluminum alloy casing, crafted using CNC machining, is designed to echo the abstract art of Dutch painter Piet Mondrian, showcasing vibrant primary colors arranged in structured rectangular segments.

    Technical Specifications

    This portable DAC is capable of playing high-resolution audio formats including 32-bit, 768 kHz PCM, DSD512, and MQA. It has a frequency response range of 20 Hz to 40 kHz, with a total harmonic distortion (THD) of just 0.001%. When used with 4.4 mm balanced headphones, it boasts a signal-to-noise ratio of 118 dB. The balanced headphones are more effective at separating left and right audio channels compared to the usual 3.5 mm unbalanced ones, leading to less signal crosstalk and noise interferance.

    Connectivity and Features

    The Mondrian DAC connects seamlessly to various audio devices, such as smartphones and laptops, via its USB-C port. Users can easily adjust the headphone gain across three settings (15 mV, 2.48 mV, or 4.1 V RMS) by pressing the Buff button situated on the side of the device.

    Pricing Details

    The Artpical Mondrian DAC does not have a fixed price, but in Japan, it is available through dealers for prices between 37,800 yen (about $240) at E-Earphone and 42,000 yen (around $265) at Bic Camera. In the United States, MusicTeck is offering it for pre-order at a price of $250.

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  • iBasso DX340 Limited Edition: Dual Battery Titanium Music Player

    iBasso DX340 Limited Edition: Dual Battery Titanium Music Player

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iBasso DX340 features a customizable design with interchangeable amplifier modules, allowing users to enhance their audio experience.
    2. It includes a high-power amplifier module capable of delivering 2,150 mW per channel at 32 ohms, managed by an FPGA chip for improved sound quality.
    3. The device has a 6-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 2,160 x 1,080 pixels and is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 chip, featuring 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of expandable storage.
    4. Battery life allows for up to eleven hours of continuous music playback, with separate power circuits for digital and analog components to enhance audio fidelity.
    5. The Titanium Limited Edition is priced at €1,790 and is limited to just 300 units globally, making it a rare and premium choice for audiophiles.

    The iBasso DX340 is a premium music player weighing 486 grams and made of stainless steel, but the Titanium Limited Edition swaps this for a sleek CNC-milled titanium body. The design stands out even more due to a unique feature: by unscrewing two screws on the bottom, users can easily take out the AMP15 amplifier module and replace it with any module from the iBasso AMP1x series.

    Custom Sound Experience

    This interchangeable design lets audiophiles customize their listening experience. The included amplifier module already delivers sufficient power for most headphones, with an impressive specification of 2,150 mW per channel at 32 ohms. An FPGA chip manages the digital-to-analog conversion process, which iBasso claims enhances the overall sound quality. Additionally, iBasso offers flexibility in the operating system, allowing users to choose between the music-centric Mango OS and the full Android 13, which opens the door to various third-party streaming services.

    Impressive Specifications

    The iBasso DX340 boasts a vibrant 6-inch AMOLED display that features a resolution of 2,160 x 1,080 pixels and is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 ARM chip, a well-known option for music devices. It comes equipped with 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage, which can be expanded using a microSD card. The device has two batteries with capacities of 4,000 mAh and 2,100 mAh. Furthermore, the design includes separate power circuits for digital and analog components, aimed at enhancing audio fidelity. Users can enjoy up to eleven hours of continuous music playback.

    Limited Availability

    The iBasso DX340 Titanium Limited Edition is currently available from iBasso Audio and HiFi Passion for around €1,790, but it is restricted to just 300 units globally. This makes the limited edition model €200 pricier compared to the standard iBasso DX340.

    iBasso | HiFi Passion | Press release

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  • JVC HA-A110T Earbuds: Hi-Res Audio with Spiral Dot Tips

    JVC HA-A110T Earbuds: Hi-Res Audio with Spiral Dot Tips

    Key Takeaways

    1. High-Quality Sound: Equipped with LDAC Hi-Res Audio codec and 10 mm LCP drivers for superior audio quality and enhanced sound clarity with Spiral Dot ear tips.

    2. Battery Life and Durability: Offers up to 13 hours of playtime with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on, and 34 hours total with the charging case; IPX4 rated for splash resistance.

    3. Advanced Connectivity: Utilizes Bluetooth 6.0 technology, supports multipoint connections for two devices, and features a smartphone app for easy customization.

    4. Color Options: Available in appealing colors including Charcoal Black, Teal Green, Ivory Gold, and Bronze Brown.

    5. Pricing and Availability: Priced at 19,800 yen (approximately $129) and available at the JVC Shop in Japan and later on Amazon US.

    JVC Japan has recently introduced the HA-A110T earbuds, designed for daily use under the Next Standard theme. These earbuds are available in several appealing colors, including warm Charcoal Black, Teal Green, Ivory Gold, and Bronze Brown.

    High-Quality Sound Experience

    These earbuds come equipped with the LDAC Hi-Res Audio codec, allowing for high-resolution music playback of up to 24-bit and 96 kHz. The 10 mm liquid crystal polymer (LCP) drivers work to produce superior audio quality. Additionally, the unique Spiral Dot ear tips help to enhance sound clarity by diffusing reflected sound waves, which minimizes muddiness often found in directly channeled music. To further improve the listening experience, each earbud uses two microphones to effectively cancel out background noise.

    Impressive Battery Life and Durability

    According to JVC, the HA-A110T earbuds boast an IPX4 rating, making them splashproof. They offer impressive battery life, providing up to 13 hours with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) turned on and 17 hours with it off. When using the charging case, users can enjoy a total of 34 or 44 hours, respectively. The charging case is also compatible with Qi wireless chargers.

    Advanced Connectivity Features

    These earbuds utilize Bluetooth 6.0 technology and support multipoint connections, allowing users to connect to two devices simultaneously. The JVC smartphone app enables users to adjust volume levels, playback settings, ANC, and equalizer presets easily.

    The JVC HA-A110T earbuds are available for purchase at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of 19,800 yen (approximately $129) from the JVC Shop in Japan. Additionally, customers can check the JVC store on Amazon US for availability later this year.

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  • Audeze Launches LCD-5 Master-Grade Planar Magnetic Headphones

    Audeze Launches LCD-5 Master-Grade Planar Magnetic Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Audeze has launched the LCD-5s, an upgrade to the previous LCD-5 model, priced at $4,500.
    2. The LCD-5s feature updated 90 mm planar magnetic drivers for high-resolution sound with a frequency range of 5 Hz to 50 kHz and low distortion.
    3. They incorporate ultra-thin Parallel Uniforce diaphragms and SLAM technology for enhanced bass and sound accuracy.
    4. Audeze recommends an audio source with over 500 mW of power for optimal performance, despite the headphones’ low impedance of 30 ohms.
    5. The LCD-5s come with a 4-pin XLR balanced cable, adapters, and a stylish aluminum travel case, and are available for purchase on Audeze’s website and Amazon.

    Audeze has introduced the LCD-5s, their premium headphones that feature ultra-thin planar drivers. This new model is an upgrade from the previous LCD-5 headphones which were released in 2021 and had a suggested retail price of $4,500.

    Enhanced Audio Experience

    The LCD-5s are equipped with updated 90 mm planar magnetic drivers that are capable of delivering high-resolution sound. They boast a frequency range from 5 Hz to 50 kHz and have a total harmonic distortion (THD) of less than 0.1% at 100 dB. The drivers incorporate ultra-thin Parallel Uniforce diaphragms and Symmetric Linear Acoustic Modulator (SLAM) technology, which Audeze claims results in impressive low-end bass and precise sound reproduction.

    Power Recommendations

    Even though the LCD-5s have a low impedance of 30 ohms, Audeze suggests using an audio source that can output more than 500 mW of power. The headphones are capable of handling a maximum input power of 5 W RMS. Weighing in at 475 g (1.05 lbs), these headphones come with a 4-pin XLR balanced cable and include both 6.3 mm and 3.5 mm adapters, all packaged in a stylish aluminum travel case.

    You can purchase the Audeze LCD-5s directly from the company’s official website or check for their availability at the Audeze store on Amazon. For gamers, Audeze also offers the Maxwell 2 gaming headset, which might be worth considering.

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  • Khadas Tea Pro: Wireless DAC with Magnetic Mount & 11-Hour Battery

    Khadas Tea Pro: Wireless DAC with Magnetic Mount & 11-Hour Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. High-Quality Audio: The Khadas Tea Pro features an ESS ES9039Q2M DAC chip, supporting both balanced and unbalanced headphone connections with excellent audio performance.

    2. Versatile Connectivity: It supports wired input and wireless high-resolution audio streaming, including formats like DSD512 and LDAC, ensuring compatibility with various devices.

    3. Long Battery Life: With a 2,100 mAh battery, it offers up to 8 hours of wired use and 11 hours of wireless use, making it suitable for extended listening sessions.

    4. Compact Design: The slim and lightweight design allows for easy attachment to devices like iPhones with MagSafe, ensuring portability and convenience.

    5. Wide Compatibility: The Tea Pro works with smartphones, laptops, tablets, and gaming consoles, supporting USB Audio Class 1.0 and 2.0 for versatile usage.

    The Khadas Tea Pro lets users of smartphones, laptops, and tablets enjoy high-quality music playback for both balanced and unbalanced wired headphones, all while offering long hours of use due to its integrated battery.

    Audio Performance

    Featuring an ESS ES9039Q2M DAC chip, the Tea Pro can power standard headphones via a 3.5 mm unbalanced jack and balanced headphones through a 4.4 mm balanced jack. It supports both wired input and wireless high-resolution audio streaming (DSD512, 768 kHz PCM, LDAC, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive) with an impressive analog audio output that boasts a signal-to-noise ratio of 122 dB and total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) as low as -118 dB. A two-stage gain feature makes it suitable for both low and high-impedance headphones.

    Battery Life and Display

    According to Khadas, a 2,100 mAh battery allows for 8 hours of wired use and 11 hours when used wirelessly. The device includes a 0.95-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 120 × 240 pixels, which lets users view adjustments made to the equalizer, gain, and other sound settings.

    Design and Compatibility

    The DAC is quite slim, measuring just 7.85 mm (0.31 in.) thick and weighing 96 g (3.39 oz.). It magnetically attaches to devices like Apple iPhones equipped with MagSafe, and its dimensions of 102.7 x 64.0 mm (4.04 x 2.52 in.) allow it to stay discreetly behind the phone. The Tea Pro is also compatible with gaming consoles, supporting UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0 USB audio, making it usable with PlayStation, Switch, and Xbox systems.

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  • Fiio Launches Slim JM21 DAP/DAC with Balanced Output for Audiophiles

    Fiio Launches Slim JM21 DAP/DAC with Balanced Output for Audiophiles

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Fiio JM21 2026 is a digital audio player and converter that supports high-resolution music files, featuring a Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 SoC and 4 GB of RAM.
    2. It includes 64 GB of internal storage, expandable up to 2 TB via microSD, and runs on a customized version of Android 13.
    3. The device offers superior audio performance with dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chips, achieving a signal-to-noise ratio over 130 dB and THD+N below 0.0006%.
    4. It has a 3,100 mAh battery providing up to 700 mW of output power, with customizable three-way gain settings for various headphone requirements.
    5. The JM21 2026 will launch on January 23, 2026, priced at approximately $250, available in black or blue.

    Fiio has revealed the sleek JM21 2026, a device that combines a digital audio player (DAP) and a digital audio converter (DAC), designed for high-resolution music files.

    Specifications and Features

    The JM21 2026 is driven by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 SoC, a processor you typically find in mid-range smartphones. It features 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of ROM, all running on a customized version of Android 13. Users can expand storage thanks to a microSD slot that supports cards up to 2 TB.

    This audio player excels in delivering balanced headphone output, owing to its dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chips and separate left and right circuitry. This setup achieves a signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 130 dB, with total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) below 0.0006%. It is capable of playing high-resolution audio files up to 32-bit and 384 kHz and holds Hi-Res Audio certification. The device also supports streaming codecs like LDAC, LHDC, and aptX HD, as well as DSD512.

    Battery Life and Power

    Equipped with a 3,100 mAh battery, the JM21 2026 can deliver up to 700 mW of output power, making it suitable for more demanding headphones. A three-way gain setting, along with an adjustable volume curve, allows users to fine-tune the device to cater to the impedance and power needs of different headphones.

    The Fiio JM21 2026 DAP/DAC will be available in black or blue starting on January 23, 2026, with a suggested retail price of 39,600 yen (around $250). Its dimensions are 120.7 × 68 × 13 mm (4.8 x 2.7 x 0.5 in.), and it weighs 156 g (5.5 oz.). Customers can expect to find the JM21 2026 at the Fiio store on Amazon.

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  • Questyle Launches Qlink-C Ultra-Light USB-C DAC for Audio Excellence

    Questyle Launches Qlink-C Ultra-Light USB-C DAC for Audio Excellence

    Key Takeaways

    1. High-Quality Audio Playback: The Qlink-C supports high-resolution audio up to 32-bit and 384 kHz for smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

    2. Performance Metrics: It features a signal-to-noise ratio of 100 dB and total harmonic distortion (THD) of –95 dB, which are decent but not the best compared to some high-end devices.

    3. Design and Build: The DAC has an 8-core, braided OFC silver-plated wire cable and aluminum alloy connectors, designed for durability withstanding 15,000 bending cycles.

    4. Compact Size: The Qlink-C measures 11.81 x 0.99 x 0.58 cm (4.65 x 0.39 x 0.23 in.) and weighs only 4.54 g (0.16 oz.), making it ultra-compact.

    5. Affordable Pricing: Priced at 4,153 yen (about $26), it is a budget-friendly option for high-quality audio.

    Questyle has unveiled the Qlink-C, a budget-friendly USB-C digital audio converter featuring a 3.5 mm audio jack.

    High-Quality Audio Playback

    This DAC is compatible with smartphones, tablets, and laptops, allowing users to enjoy high-resolution audio playback, with support for music recordings up to 32-bit and 384 kHz.

    Performance Metrics

    It boasts a signal-to-noise ratio of 100 dB and a total harmonic distortion (THD) of –95 dB. While these figures indicate reasonable performance, they aren’t top-notch; for instance, the LG G7 smartphone equipped with a quad-DAC surpasses these specs in testing. However, many devices do not offer high-quality sound output like audiophile gear.

    Design and Build

    The Qlink-C stands out visually, featuring an 8-core, braided OFC silver-plated wire cable designed to endure 15,000 bending cycles. The ends are finished with aluminum alloy connectors. The DAC itself measures 11.81 x 0.99 x 0.58 cm (4.65 x 0.39 x 0.23 in.) and weighs 4.54 g (0.16 oz.).

    The Questyle Qlink-C ultra-compact USB-C DAC is priced at 4,153 yen (about $26) on Amazon Japan and various other retailers in Japan. The company’s other products can be found on Amazon US.

    Questyle press release, Questyle.

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  • UX5000 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones with Hybrid Noise Reduction

    UX5000 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones with Hybrid Noise Reduction

    Key Takeaways

    1. High-Resolution Sound: The UX5000 headphones are designed for high-quality audio with a frequency range of 20 Hz to 40 kHz and 40 mm drivers.

    2. Advanced Audio Codecs: They support Sony LDAC and Qualcomm aptX Adaptive HQ audio codecs for enhanced wireless sound quality.

    3. Hybrid Noise Cancellation: Features both feedforward and feedback microphones for effective noise cancellation, with an ambient sound mode for awareness.

    4. Long Battery Life: Offers up to 45 hours of playback with active noise cancellation on, and a quick recharge time of two hours with a replaceable battery.

    5. Comfort Features: Weighing 310 grams, they include magnetically-mounted memory foam ear pads and a detachable headband for customizable comfort.

    Final has introduced the UX5000 wireless over-ear headphones, tailored for music lovers who appreciate high-resolution sound and want detailed, rich audio through Bluetooth 5.4 or wired options. These headphones are finely tuned to capture subtle sonic details with a deeply resonant quality.

    Specifications and Features

    Equipped with 40 mm drivers, these headphones deliver a frequency range of 20 Hz to 40 kHz. They feature a Qualcomm QCC3095 system on chip (SoC) which enables support for Sony LDAC and Qualcomm aptX Adaptive HQ audio codecs along with hybrid noise cancellation that employs both feedforward and feedback microphones. Users can switch to an ambient sound mode, allowing them to listen to announcements and conversations without the need to take off the headphones. The accompanying smartphone app provides options to adjust headphone settings, including a 10-band equalizer.

    Comfort and Battery Life

    According to Final, the headphones offer up to 45 hours of playback time with active noise cancellation (ANC) activated and can be fully recharged in just two hours. Notably, the battery is replaceable by the company itself. Weighing in at 310 grams (10.9 oz.), they come with magnetically-mounted memory foam ear pads and a detachable headband, both of which can be replaced by the user. The ear cups are designed to rotate on hangers, ensuring a more comfortable fit.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Final UX5000 headphones are priced at 32,800 yen (around $225). Customers can expect them to become available in the Final store on Amazon soon.

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    UX5000 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones with Hybrid Noise ReductionUX5000 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones with Hybrid Noise Reduction

     

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