PC Audio

Sleek Audio's SA1 Earbuds: Wireless, Custom Tuned, Just $80

News — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 23:37:53 GMT

Headphones and earbuds are a dime a dozen these days, and frankly it's tough to keep track of which ones are worth a listen and which are just worth passing over. Sleek Audio has been a trusted name in the industry for some time now, though most of its loyal fan base were of the affluent type. Sleek's earbuds are generally expensive, and some are custom tunable to give buyers that perfect sound they've been searching for.

Now, that same tunable luxury is hitting the lower-end, as the SA1 earbuds are priced for just about anyone. Or at least anyone that would seriously consider investing in a good pair of 'buds. Another interesting tidbit about the SA1s are that these have wireless capabilities thanks to Kleer technology, which actually enables users to listen without those dangling cables around their neck.

They're available to order right now for $79.99.

The SA1’s wooden body features the same patented cable design as the SA6 and CT6 and is compatible with Sleek Audio’s Kleer wireless system. For sound, the SA1 utilizes a first-of-its-kind, custom tuned 6mm dynamic driver for surprising bass impact, stunning clarity and balanced sound signatures. It is also part of the VQ system line and allows listeners to adjust the frequency response of the earphone with treble tuning options.
“It can be a wireless earphone or wired earphone, we leave the choice up to the listener. Our products are about options, and allowing our customers to find what works best for them,” added Krywko.
The SA1 is now shipping and can be found online at www.sleek-audio.com as well as through many of the world’s top audio e-tailors.

Sound Card Recommendations

Iain — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 02:40:39 GMT

So I've recently developed an obsession for audio quality that I've determined is not going to go away! I've got Sennheiser HD280s that sound worse than some $20 Skullcandy's on my PoS MP3 Player because my PC's sound card is garbage. I was looking at the HT Omega Striker for an upgrade but I was wondering if there was a cheaper option you guys might know of that I could go with?

Bowers & Wilkins Enter Headphone Game With Retro-Looking P5 Cans

News — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:55:42 GMT

Bowers & Wilkins is a well known name in the high-end audio world. If you're spending big bucks on a new sound system, you're probably at least giving B&W a look. But if you're not one of those high rollers, you probably only know this company because of its Zeppelin iPod sound system (and its wild design).

Now, however, you may end up knowing it for one other thing: headphones. As the world moves towards becoming the "iPod world," it seems like just about everyone wants to get in on the accessories game. The P5 Mobile Hi-Fi Headphones are the company's first-ever headphones, and according to B&W, these deliver bright, clean audio with a "a natural, unfatiguing performance."

You'll find ultra-linear neodymium magnets and highly optimized Mylar diaphragms, but sadly, you won't find a price. We do know that they'll ship in early 2010, though, and we'd bring quite a few blank checks just in case.

Bowers & Wilkins headphones hit the streets

Concert for one

Unfatiguing natural sound gets you closer to the music. Noise isolatingdesign for use on the move. Metal an sealed-leather constructionmaximizes comfort, for life-long listening. Made for iPod®, weithcables supplied for speech and device control.

Bowers & Wilkins is proud to announce its first ever headphone.Designed for use on the move, the P5 Mobile Hi-Fi Headphone allowspeople to have Bowers & Wilkins sound quality wherever they are.

Some 45 years of audio experience has gone into the P5; close tofive-decades of research into what true sound is. The ultimate aim ofall Bowers & Wilkins products is to bring the listener as close aspossible to the sound intended by the recording engineers. That is astrue of the world-renowned 800 Series speakers used in the likes ofAbbey Road Studio, as it is for the best sounding premium iPod® speakeravailable, Zeppelin. And now it's true for Mobile Hi-Fi Headphones.

Recognizing that many mobile headphones can be tiring when listened toover extended periods, Bowers & Wilkins' engineers at theworld-famous Stenying Research Establishment have worked tirelessly toproduce a headphone with a natural, unfatiguing performance. The use ofspecially developed ultra-linear neodymium magnets and highly optimizedMylar diaphragms provide the best possible sound quality. As always,countless hours of critical listening and tuning have played a majorpart in the P5's natural and engaging performance.

This pristine sound performance is married to design and constructiontechniques aimed at isolating as much noise as possible, for consumersthat do not require full electronic noise cancellation. This isolationis achieved through a combination of the closed-back design featuring arigid metal faceplate, and the sealed-leather ear pads. These materialsnot only remove a lot of external noise, providing an envelopinglistening experience without completely removing the user's sense ofplace, they also offer an extremely comfortable user experience. Theleather-clad headband has been designed for extreme comfort where itinterfaces with the side of the head, while the softest availablesheep's leather from New Zealand has been used for the ear pads.Recognizing the dominance of Apple's iPod and iPhone® in the portablemedia market, the P5 comes supplied with a Made For iPod approvedcable, which allows for speech and device control. It also comessupplied with a high-quality, standard audio cable with gold-platedplugs. Switching between the two is facilitated by the magneticallyattached ear pads, which simply pop off allowing access to the cable.

Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin and Zeppelin Mini provide the bestpossible sound from an iPod at home, and now the P5 lets you take thatgreat performance with you wherever you go. Bowers & Wilkins P5 isavailable from January 2010 To find your nearest Bowers & Wilkinsstockist visit www.bowers-wilkins.com.

Klipsch Offers Wireless Version Of ProMedia 2.1 Speakers

News — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 20:02:19 GMT

If you've been around audio for awhile, you definitely know Klipsch. It's a mainstay in the industry, particularly the home A/V market and the PC audio market. Awhile back, the company introduced a set of computer speakers that would change the way people viewed PC speakers: the ProMedia 2.1. It led companies like Logitech to develop killer 5.1 systems in a box for PCs, something that was rarely or never done beforehand.

Now, Klipsch is unveiling the wireless version of its ProMedia 2.1 system. Just like the originals, the wireless set is totally THX-certified. The different here is the USB nature, which allows users to plug a transceiver into their USB port and then continue sending signal even if they relocate. Granted, this is mostly useful for laptop owners, as the satellites themselves are still tethered to the subwoofer (which is tethered to an AC outlet), but it's definitely beneficial for some.

The ProMedia 2.1 Wireless is available exclusively at klipsch.com and only to U.S. consumers for $199, while the wired set can also be secured at Best Buy for $149.99.

Klipsch Puts Wireless Spin on Popular ProMedia 2.1 Computer Speakers
New twist on award-winning system conveniently brings better sound to laptop and notebook users

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (November 4, 2009) Today more and morepeople use laptops and notebooks to listen to music, watch movies andplay games. And surprisingly enough, many of them will accept theircomputer's poor sound performance just to stay mobile. But now theydon't have to thanks to the wireless technology Klipsch has added toits ProMedia 2.1 computer speakers.

The original ProMedia 2.1 system was introduced in 2000, and overthe years it has become one of the highest praised, best-sellingproducts Klipsch has ever produced. But given the increase in laptopand notebook usage, company officials decided to put a fresh spin onthe classic setup by introducing a wireless version.

The new ProMedia 2.1 Wireless looks and sounds like theTHX-certified original, only the Klipsch logos are silver instead ofcopper. "The ProMedia is still the defacto 2.1 standard for computerspeakers. It's been known to put some home stereo systems to shame, andwe want to keep it that way with or without wires," said Don Inmon,Klipsch director of product development for personal audio.

The real difference between the two designs lies within a USBwireless transmitter that plugs into the computer's USB port. "Only afew simple steps are required to get the ProMedia Wireless up andrunning. Just plug, play and enjoy the full sonic impact of your music,movies and games without being tied down," said Inmon. "No router orinstallation software is needed."

Inmon, however, notes the misconception that many consumers haveabout wireless audio. Often times, when people see the words "wireless"and "speakers" together, they assume the entire sound system is wireand cable free. However, no such speaker system exists unless it runsoff of batteries. "Speakers need a power source to drive them and thatsource needs to connect to electricity," he says.

With the ProMedia 2.1 Wireless, the subwoofer is the power source.This heavy-hitter plugs into a wall outlet and then the two speakersconnect to it via wires. Wireless, in the case of the ProMedia, meansno wires attach to the computer. This allows users to move theirlaptops freely around the room without ever losing their 2.1 sound. TheProMedia and computer wirelessly connect via the USB wirelesstransmitter.

The wireless range of the ProMedia spans approximately 30 feet in asingle room. The system is perfect for dorm rooms, offices, bedroomsand family rooms really wherever people use their laptops and notebooksthe most. ProMedia 2.1 Wireless owners with a Wi-Fi connection and aniPhone or iPod Touch can use Apple's Remote Application to controltheir iTunes from anywhere in the house covered by Wi-Fi.

Technical Information:
The two-way ProMedia speakers are driven by exclusive MicroTractrixHorns that cleanly and accurately handle the high frequencies, creatinga precise image and soundstage. Each speaker employs a 3-inchfiber-composite cone driver for smooth mid-bass reproduction. Apreamplifier control pod, which features separate main volume andsubwoofer level controls, a headphone jack and the miniplug input, islocated on one of the speakers. Each speaker comes with aself-supporting pedestal, but Klipsch also sells adjustable WB-1 wallbrackets through its online store for $21.99 a pair.

The high-output, low distortion subwoofer is a bass-reflex typewith a flared, tuned front port and 6.5-inch side-firing driver. The200-watt amplifier housed inside the subwoofer enclosure ensures thatthe ProMedia 2.1 Wireless can deliver superior sound over conventionalmultimedia systems.

Pricing and Availability:
Priced at $199, the ProMedia 2.1 Wireless is available exclusively at klipsch.com and only to U.S. consumers. The original ProMedia, which retails for $149.99, is available at Best Buy and klipsch.com.

About Klipsch
Founded in 1946 by Paul W. Klipsch, one of America's mostcelebrated audio pioneers, Klipsch has long been a high-end name inspeaker design. Today, the brand continues its success as a leadingglobal manufacturer of premium sound solutions for home, personal andcommercial use. From massive professional cinema speakers to tinyheadphones, Klipsch remains committed to delivering the most powerful,detailed and emotional sound experiences. Family owned and operated,chairman Fred Klipsch and vice chairman Judy Klipsch set the vision andstrategy for the brand as well as the entire Klipsch Group, Inc.organization. For more information, visit klipsch.com.

Monster Intros Flashy $300 Turbine Pro In-Ear Headphones

News — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 02:14:51 GMT

For the longest time, Monster was known for one thing and one thingonly: for producing high-quality, over-the-top, overpriced cables.These days, a lot of folks have caught on to Monster's games and arelooking elsewhere, so maybe that's why we've seen the company branchingout more into varying sectors of consumer electronics. Specifically,Monster has been cranking out headphone after headphone, with thelatest set being of the earbud variety.

In typical Monster fashion, the new Turbine Pro headphones areextremely flashy, and if you believe the press release, they'reprobably the best in-ear headphones money can buy. Described as"professional" earbuds, Monster has engineered these "to deliver thekind of reference-quality sound necessary to meet the exacting demandsof today’s music professionals and discriminating audiophilelisteners." The standout feature in the new 'buds is the 'SuperTip'eartips, which offer up noise isolation and prevent sound leakage.Speaking of tips, a trio of sizes ship with 'em, so pretty much any earcanal should be taken care of.

The new Monster Turbine Pro headphones will be available in November2009 in a pair of colors: gold with black chrome, and copper withbright chrome. Unlike most headphones, Monster is standing behind thesein a big way. They'll come with a one-time Lifetime ReplacementGuarantee – even if users break the headphones themselves. Of course,we'd expect nothing less given the monstrous $299.95 price tag, whichactually soars to $329.95 if you get the bundle that includes Monster'sControlTalk headphone cable to use with Apple's iPhone, iPod and mostother multimedia-friendly smartphones.

Polk's HitMaster Speaker Wedge Makes Rock Band More Real

News — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 04:15:32 GMT

Altec Lansing has already busted this market wide open, but now theaudio lovers over at Polk are looking to take their shot, too. Forthose unaware, there's apparently a small movement going on in the rockmusic game arena where folks are looking for individual monitors to userather than standard TV speakers. It sure sounds crazy to us, but hey,who are we to judge?

Polk Audio's HitMaster is for all intentsand purposes a dedicated stage monitor meant for use with DJ Hero, RockBand and Guitar Hero. You just plug your console's audio outputsdirectly into this (rather than into your TV or other sound system),and just like that, you're taken to a surreal world where you're withina real rock show. Or, at least that's the idea.

The deviceitself houses two 2.5"x5.5" horns, two 1" neodymium tweeters and asingle 6.5" woofer, all within a cabinet that measures 14"w x 9 1/2"h x8 1/2"d and weighs 13 lbs. There's also a 60W (RMS) amplifier, linelevel inputs/outputs and a 1/8" input jack for directly connecting toTVs, iPods, etc. It's slated to be available early next year for $99.99.

Case In Point: THX on Wheels

News — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 16:06:21 GMT

When Graham McKenna, the PR guy at THX, contacted me and asked me if I’d like to borrow a new Lincoln MKT SUV for a few days, I jumped at the chance. To be perfectly honest, I didn’t care a whit about the MKT itself. I wanted to check out how THX and Ford engineered the sound system in the vehicle.

When McKenna arrived with the MKT, I was a little taken aback. The MKT is built on Ford’s Flex platform. So although it seats up to seven people, it’s relatively low slung. It is, however, long. As it turns out, the MKT isn’t the car for me (even if I could afford the price tag), mostly because it seems to be engineered for fairly tall people – and at 5 foot 7 inches in socks, tall I’m not. Still, it proved to be a polished ride, and it was great fun driving a luxury vehicle that wasn’t even for sale on car lots yet. Though this isn’t about the car, but about the sound system...

Case In Point: THX on Wheels

Home theater reciever

fl3x — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 03:04:32 GMT

Well i got a cheap coby hometheather system and I was wondering withn i plug in my pc into the aux i notice only 2 speakers play (the front right and left and also the sub) my qustion is if i can some how seperate the sound to play in all the speakers. Currently using a laptop xps 1210 with the basic sound card.

Speakers what R U guys using

amdcrankitup — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 13:17:20 GMT

I gtting the urge to buy a set of spaekers and for the time being Im gng to use onboard sound from my

Asus M4A79dt Deluxe ! Im thinking on using Logitek but was just curious what all of you are using more

or less a survey from all of you!

Ultrasone Caters To High-End Listeners With $329 HFI-2400 Headphones

News — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 22:17:21 GMT

Ultrasone may not be a household name in the headphone arena, but forthose with lots of dough and a thing for pristine sound quality, we'resure they know the label well. The company's latest high-end effort isthe open-backed HFI-2400, a member of the HFI series that is doused inblack and silver and equipped with an "airy tone."

Within, you'll find 40mm gold-plated drivers, the firm's own S-Logictechnology, MU Metal shielding (which reduces the amount of magneticradiation emitted from standard headphones up to 98%) and a removablethree-meter long, straight cable with 6.3 millimeter gold-plated stereoplug. As with most luxury headphones, these also come with a velvetcarrying bar and a demo CD. Ultrasone plans to ship these startinglater this month for $329, which actually isn't half bad consideringsome of the company's other offerings.

Ultrasone Debuts its Flagship HFI Series Headphone with the Open-backed HFI-2400

Wildomar, Calif. - (October 6, 2009)– Ultrasone Inc., distributor for German headphone manufacturerUltrasone AG, is proud to announce the release of its flagship HFISeries headphone – the HFI-2400. With the debut of the HFI-2400,Ultrasone has designed an eye-catching black and silver, open-backedheadphone that satisfies the highest of listening demands.

TheHFI-2400s are the flagship headphones in Ultrasone’s famed HFI Series.Distinguished by its airy tone and its modern and elegant design, theHFI-2200s 40mm gold-plated driver provides the finest ofthree-dimensional sound thanks to Ultrasone’s patented S-Logic™technology. The HFI-2400 comes outfitted with MU Metal shielding,similar to all other Ultrasone headphones, which reduces the amount ofmagnetic radiation emitted from standard headphones, up to 98%.

EachHFI-2400 comes with a removable three-meter long, straight cable with6.3 millimeter gold-plated stereo plug, a velvet carrying bag and theUltrasone demo CD.

HFI Series
Classicalenjoyment at home, listen to your favorite music while on the go, orcapitalizing on all of the acoustical facilities of a computer game –just a few examples of the many uses of the HFI Series from Ultrasone.All of the headphones are aligned with the individual needs of thelistening community. From the ultra-light and small HFI-15G, designedfor mobile applications, to the headphones exclusively designed forhome and studio use, to the new open HFI-2400, at Ultrasone, everyonefinds their favorite headphone.

Headphone Technology from Ultrasone
Ultrasoneincorporates its own developed and patented S-Logic™ technology in allof its headphones. It presents an acutely precise sound that listenersfeel as if they are in a live concert. At the same time, the soundpressure is reduced by approximately 3-4 dB providing 40% less burdenand strain on the eardrum. The technology is at the heart of everyUltrasone headphone and makes sure that that the music is phoneticallyand spatially at the highest levels. The headphones integrate theentire pinna, or outer ear, into the hearing process the way naturemeant us to hear, so that the sound is considerably more natural thannormal headphones or in-ear phones.

Availability and Price
Thenew HFI-2400 from Ultrasone has a MSRP of $329 and will be availablebeginning October/November 2009 from all Ultrasone retailers anddistributors, in addition to www.ultrasone.com.

Foradditional information on Ultrasone’s HFI-2400 headphones, pleasecontact PR Representative Brian Metcalf at (305) 576-1171 x11 or bye-mail at brianmetcalf@maxborgesagency.com. To learn more about Ultrasone, go to www.ultrasone.com

About Ultrasone
Basednear Munich, Germany, Ultrasone AG has been manufacturing headphonesfor the audio market for over 17 years, during which time the companyhas developed and applied for more than 60 patents for its innovativetechnology. The company's unique, patented S-Logic™ technology createsnatural surround sound without the use of additional electronicdevices. Ultrasone headphones represent a safer listening experience byreducing sound pressure on the ear drum by up to 40% and also byoffering shielding from EMF radiation up to 98% through the use ofpatented ULE (ultra low emission) technology. For more informationabout Ultrasone headphones, go to www.ultrasone.com.

Eye Control Coming To iPods And Music Players...One Day

News — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 10:36:24 GMT

Here's the thing--having a phone that plays music, or even an iPod, is great. And it's really great if you've got the time to establish playlists that you never need to touch once you hit "play" that first time and head out for the morning. But what about for everyone else? Everyone else is stuck fiddling with volume controls, back/forward buttons and all sorts of other tweaks in order to find musical enjoyment, and NTT DoCoMo realizes just what a hassle all of that has become.

The Japanese telecommunications firm has showcased recently a new breakthrough technology that could very well change the way we listen to music on the go. Not since the introduction of the original iPod have we been able to say that with a straight face, but it's true. The new eye-recognition demo essentially enables music listeners to flick their eyes to the left/right to move a track forward/back, while looking up or down briefly could lower or raise volume. It's controlling music with your eyes, and it's brilliant.

The system was shown off this past week at the Ceatec trade show in Japan, though it did require a dedicated camera to watch the eyes. We're hoping that a commercialized version of this (should it ever arrive) would be able to use bone conducting technology or something else in order to detect eye movements. Hmm, maybe the age of mind and body control really is upon us?

New Sony Earbuds Sense When You Take Them Out

News — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 18:42:22 GMT

It happens to everyone: You're listening to your favorite band on your MP3player and a friend comes over and starts talking to you before youeven have a chance to get the earbud out, nevermind turn off the music.

Sony Ericsson believes it's solved that pesky issue, with what it says is "the world's first ever motion activated headphones."

Basically, if you pull the bud out of your ear, the music or the callyou're on stops. Right in its tracks. You can see by the publicity shotSony Ericsson released to accompany the headphones that it makes peoplereally happy.

The earbudscome in either yellow/white or "Titan Chrome" (which appears to beblack and silver) and work on most Sony Ericsson phones with a fastport connector. They're 164 cm long and weigh a mere 25.32 grams.

The funky video Sony hired animator Kristofer Ström to create shows a worldin which the earbuds allow the user to transport himself from aKansas-like black and white boring world into an Oz-like colorful worldwith odd-looking bunnies.

Bose SoundDock 10 -- Most Expensive iPod Speaker System Ever?

News — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 05:19:54 GMT

"Bose" and "budget" just don't go in the same sentence together, and that fact has never been more true with the introduction of the company's latest iPod music system. As families across the world look for ways to cut back, Bose is helping you find new ways to splurge, as the SoundDock 10 is right up there with the most expensive iPod accessories known to man.

We never expected a device to make B&W's Zeppelin Mini look inexpensive, but the large MSRP here sure had that effect. Packing a traditional Bose design, this one-piece speaker system is considered a "premium" device and was designed specifically for Apple's runaway hit, the iPod. Measuring approximately 9" high, 17" wide and 10" deep, it incorporates new and existing Bose technologies, including a new version of Bose proprietary waveguide technology -- debuting for the first time and developed specifically for the SoundDock 10 system. It is matched with a newly designed Bose woofer, which supposedly delivers 4x the efficiency of a conventional woofer.

That's about as detailed as Bose gets, but the company does make clear that this works fine with any click-wheel iPod, iPod touch, iPhone, iPhone 3G and/or iPhone 3GS. For those with Bluetooth devices, a $149 BT dock is offered separately and streams music wirelessly from a stereo Bluetooth music phone. There's also a 3.5mm aux jack for connecting other sources, and the video output even lets you pass through media while docked to at TV.

Bose is shipping the SoundDock 10 starting on September 21st, but you'll have to find $599 before you can grab one.

Razer Issues Limited Edition PAX Moray+ Headset

News — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 00:37:34 GMT

Razer has been branching out on their products for quite some time,with the company's audio range being its go-to line when the mice andkeyboard grows tired. With the PAX 2009 conference in full swing out onthe west coast of America, Razer is joining forces in order to issue alimited edition PAX series of its Moray+ mobile gaming communicator.

Tailored specifically for gamers, the device is an in-ear noiseisolating earphone equipped with an omnidirectional inline microphone.There doesn't seem to be much difference between the original Moray+and this one, but we suspect the hardcore gaming crowd will have aneasier time buying in to something with a PAX logo on there. Robert"Razerguy" Krakoff, president, Razer, had this to say about hisnewly-branded kit:

"We're excited about continuing our relationship with PAX again, thistime with the Razer Moray+, a superior mobile gaming communicator, tocreate a memorable, special edition quality product. This gives on-the-go gamers who travel to events like PAX a compactheadset solution that is portable and lightweight. No need to lugaround large headsets - this is an earphone that satisfies gamers'audio, communication and gaming needs."

The device will be made available in PAX Blue, with the omnidirectionalpickup pattern capturing sound input from any direction when used withVoIP/chat apps like Skpe, Ventrilo, etc. Razer also throws in adaptersin order to make this compatible with Apple's iPhone and the averagePC, and there is also three adapters that make it play nice with theNintendo DS Lite/DSi, netbooks, laptops, and Sony's PSP. The only wayyou're getting one is if you drop by Razer's PAX booth and hand over$60, but we're sure someone on the floor would gladly ship you once fora small premium.

Earphones
Frequency response: 20 to 11,000 Hz
Sound pressure level (@1KHz, 1mW): 110 dB
Impedance: 17 ohms
Max rated input: 20 mW
Cable length: 1.3m
Connector: 3.5mm miniplug
Weight (including cable): 12.5g
Microphone
Frequency response : 300 to 3,000 Hz
Output level: -46 dB
Pick-up pattern: Omnidirectional
Output impedance: 2.2 Kohm
Signal to noise ratio : 55dB min

XM SkyDock Turns iPod touch/iPhone Into Sat Radio Receiver

News — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 15:55:29 GMT

It's still a little funny to think that Sirius and XM Radio are nowone, and honestly, it's funny to think the company is still hangingaround. After being recently bailed out by Liberty Media and getting an iPhone app into the approval queue, the company is taking things onestep further by introducing its SkyDock mounting system.

Essentially, the $120 XM SkyDock converts one's iPhone or iPod touchinto an actual satellite radio receiver, and it gets power from yourautomobile's cigarette adapter. The device sounds a little pricey, butthe features are certainly nice. For example, users can easily flagsongs that play in order to purchase them later on iTunes. Needless tosay, the move is being made in an attempt to boost its subscriberratings from around 19 million; currently, it picks up the most newcustomers via new car sales, but it's having a hard time generatinginterest outside of the dealership.

And given that just about everyone has or knows someone with an iPodtouch or iPhone, this plan certainly seems like one that could generateinterest. The SkyDock is one of the first items to actual takeadvantage of the new hardware control capabilities in iPhone OS 3.0,and obviously it charges the device when plugged in. It should shipthis fall right around the time that the aforesaid app gets approved,though it still sounds as if NFL content will be missing despite thefact that you need a full subscription to listen in at all.

Bose Puts A Hurting On Noise With $300 QuietComfort 15 Headphones

News — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 05:09:55 GMT

The greatest name in sound? The only name in sound? Yeah, something like that. Whatever Bose's slogan happens to be these days, the company is doing itself proud by introducing yet another glorified set of cans designed to help you tune out mortar fire and crumbling buildings, not to mention airplane noise and rowdy children.

Dubbed the "quietest Bose headphones ever," the fresh QuietComfort 15 acoustic noise-cancelling headphones are said to be the company's best performing, ever. While details are scant on the product itself, Bose tells us that the QC 15s "offer more attenuation in louder environments and across a wider range of frequencies -- without compromising the audio quality and comfortable fit of the acclaimed QuietComfort headphone line."

The QuietComfort 15 headphones debut a "more sophisticated, proprietary electronics approach" to active noise reduction, placing microphones both inside and outside the earcup. Supposedly, this approach better senses sound and can then more effectively measures, compares and reacts to the noise. Think noise-cancelling, just smarter (and more expensive).

Furthermore, these cans boast new ear cushion technology to keep your listeners free from aches, and the single AAA battery required to nix the noise can last for around 35 hours of use. The new QC 15s are available starting today for $299.95, while the QuietComfort 3 headphones are priced at $349.95.

iHome Goes Upscale With Ritzy iP1 iPod/iPhone Dock

News — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 05:24:40 GMT

iHome has been pushing out iPod and iPhone docks for as long as we can remember. The company has to have literally dozens of options ranging from bottom-end to fairly nice, some of which actually double as alarm clocks. The company's latest, however, is uniquely upscale, with sound from Bongiovi Acoustics and a design that'll have anyone swooning.

The iP1 is the first item in iHome's Studio Series, and the Bongiovi Acoustics Digital Power Station technology includes a processor that actively scans the recorded material and compensates for any deficiencies across the audio frequency spectrum, effectively restoring it to the sound the artist originally intended to be heard. The device outputs 100 watts of audio through 4" woofers and 1" silk dome tweeters, and it ships with a remote control and component video outputs for connecting to a variety of video equipment.

The iP1 Speaker System for iPod/iPhone is currently available for purchase at Apple and Best Buy, as well as on iHomeaudio.com for $299, so you best bring the big bucks if you're looking to step up from your bundled earbuds.

Audigy 2 ZS RM-1500 not working

ljCharlie — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 22:24:44 GMT

For some reason my remote is not working. I don't believed there is anywhere hardware problem with the remote. It's something to do with the computer, I think. The remote controls does seems to work but there is no response from the computer. When I check the task manager, I do see the the rcman.exe process is running and there is no error in the event log so I don't know where else to check next. Any suggestion is much appreciated.

Belkin Makes Any Headphones Compatible With iPod Shuffle

News — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 21:07:09 GMT

As you probably know, Apple's iPod shuffle created quite a stir when it was introduced with no screen and no buttons. How are you really supposed to control it, after all? Of course, Apple's innovative (and hampering, in some ways) solution was VoiceOver, a system that enables owners to shout commands and have it respond accordingly.

Unfortunately, this svelte workaround presents a problem: you can only use the headphones which Apple ships with the shuffle, as no other headphones have that VoiceOver chip built in. Of course, a few companies have introduced their own VoiceOver-capable earbuds in the interim, but what if you're not looking to buy new 'buds? Fret not, as Belkin has you covered.

Today, the accessory company has announced its simply named Headphone Adapter, which includes the control buttons you need to change tracks and adjust volume, while still using the headset of your choice. Think of it as a direct link from your favorite cans to the shuffle. This in-line solution enables you to plug any headphones in yet still retain control over the shuffle--it's the best of both worlds, in a sense. It's shipping any day now in North America for $19.99, while Europe, Asia and Australia will have to wait until mid-August.

Headphone
Adapter for iPod shuffle (F8Z452) - $19.99

Play/Pause: Single-Click

Next track: Double-Click

Previous track: Triple-Click

Hear title and artist of song playing (VoiceOver): Press and hold the
multifunction button

Move between playlists (VoiceOver): Press and hold, and then release
the multifunction button after you hear a tone. Click to select
playlist.

This accessory is compatible with the following iPod models:

iPod shuffle, 3rd generation, 4GB

Audio-Technica ATH-ANC7b Cans Kill The Noise

News — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 14:56:36 GMT

Done with Bose? Looking for something new to strap on your cranium? Audio-Technica has just the thing. The company--which is known for designing cutting-edge, high-end cans--has just issued its ATH-ANC7b QuietPoint active noise-canceling over-ear headphones. Sure, they're just improvements upon an earlier model, but aside from providing 85% noise-cancelation, listeners will find better sound quality, comfort and convenience.

According to A-T, these new headphones provide a smoother, more natural tonal balance, and the earcups have been redesigned for greater comfort. In addition, the ATH-ANC7b is supplied with 1.6 m (5.2') and 1.0 m (3.3') detachable cables, and offers easier battery access. Speaking of noise, these employ QuietPoint active noise-cancelation technology that eliminates up to 85% of outside noise, as a miniature microphone in each earcup detects environmental noise, and a corresponding sound-canceling signal is applied. You'll also find large-aperture 40 mm drivers for a wide 10 to 25,000Hz frequency response along with a high 109 dB sensitivity.The headphones fold for storage and come with two detachable cables, a 1/4-inch adapter, an airline adapter and a hard, durable carrying case.

They'll be available in August for $219.95--start saving!

Headphones

bob_on_the_cob — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 06:17:18 GMT

So my headphones are developing a short in one ear and I think its time to get a new set. I am looking for a set well under $100. Maybe $60, but that is flexable. My biggest complaint with my current set is that they hurt my ears after a half hour or so. So comfort and a decent mic is really my only needs. I don't want them to sound like crap, but I have tin ears and I don't expect to much for $60.

Looking for a new sound card

Nerfhurter514 — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 19:37:14 GMT

Well I broke down and bought myself a great pair of cans ( ATH- Ad700) and so now I'm in the market for a new sound card. I curently have the turtle beach Riviera which is nice but lacks EAX support and drivers are exteemly flaky. I need to spend less than $100 and I would greatly appretiate less than $75. I would prefer Toslink out and DDL support. EAX would be nice too as I play alot of FPS's. If anyone knows of any that really stand out please let me know. Right now I have it narrowed down between Turtle beach Montego DDL, and HT-Omega , or a Creative X-fi (non Audio). If anyone has used any of these and can offer an opinion please let me know.

PS: The amount of channels really doesnt matter but 7.1 seems to be the norm now.

Audio stutters or sounds timestretched when CPU activity increases

tristan888 — Mon, 03 Apr 2006 11:43:57 GMT

Hi all,

For the last few weeks, whilst playing music/videos on my Sony Vaio laptop, the sound flickers and stutters when the CPU activity increases or when there is hard drive activity (for example, when I load another program). This is obviously causing some form of interference with the sound. It never used to do this before; audio playback used to continute to sound smooth and uninterrupted whilst I was using the laptop for other things. Disabling services and statup processes reduced the problem, but that was only because there was less for the system to execute, therefore less processing activity, but this isnt really a solution. It is as if there must be nothing running at all in order to achieve continuing seamless playback.
The sound card uses RealTek audio drivers, which I have obtained from the Sony Vaio website.
(OS: WinXP Service Pack 1 - might I need service pack 2?)

Cheers,
Tristan

MSI Introduces Syren Line Of Audio Products

News — Fri, 08 May 2009 15:36:25 GMT

MSI is busting out another bag of tricks today, deviating from its usual onslaught of notebooks and graphics cards to offer up a number of audio products. The appropriately named Syren series aims to deliver dream-worthy sound, and at least initially, the family will consist of the SyrenSound X-Fi high-end sound card, the SyrenPhone Gaming headphones and the SyrenSpeaker mini speaker system.

The SyrenSound X-Fi sound card is powered by Creative Audio Processor CA0110, optimized for PCI Express to deliver accelerated audio while supporting X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity Audio technology. Unlike traditional cans, the MSI headphones connect to your PC via a USB port, and there's also a noise-reducing microphone for chatting whilst playing online. Finally, the in-line volume control ensures that you won't need access to your PC's volume sliding in order to raise or lower the decibels. The cube-like speaker system also connects via USB and includes a Class-D amplifier and a mini volume rocker. Unfortunately, MSI hasn't issued pricing or release details, but specifications are all posted below.

Specifications

Connectivity
Interface	PCI-Express (x1)
Playback	24-Bit/96kHz up to 7.1
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	104dB (20kHz Low-pass filter, A-Weighted)
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise at 1kHz	0.007% (20kHz Low-pass filter)
Recording	24-bit/96kHz
Line in / Microphone In	Shared 1/8" mini jack
Speaker Out	4x 1/8" mini jacks
Optical Out	Supports stereo SPDIF out and pass through of multichannel DVD sound.

Specifications

Earphone
Driver Units	40mm Neodymium Magnet
Frequency Response	10Hz~20KHz
Impedance	50Ω
Sensitivity (1kHz)	110dB
Microphone
Microphone Type	Uni-directional Microphone
Frequency Response	50Hz~16KHz
Impedance	680Ω
Sensitivity (1kHz)	-47dB ± 3dB

Specifications

Interface	USB
Rated Voltage	5V ±10%
Driver Units	1.5” Neodymium Magnet
Frequency	260Hz ~ 18KHz
R.M.S	1W x 2
Dimension (mm)	50 x 50 x 50
Weight (g)	170g

Speakers 4.1 or 5.1 for me

Ebreeqelshay — Sun, 03 May 2009 07:25:05 GMT

Hi,

should I get

Creative Inspire 4.1 m4500 http://asia.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=4&subcategory=789&product=16000&nav=1&listby=usage

Creative SBS 5.1 A500 http://asia.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=4&subcategory=789&product=16927&nav=1&listby=usage

I want to get serround sound in GAMES, I am on a budget but I can buy Creative SBS A500 5.1 if it's worth it.

I wonder if the center speaker would make a difference,without it they are the almost the same.

Thank you