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Bowers & Wilkins kicks out P3 headphones, brings upscale sound to the commoners (update)
Were you eying Bowers & Wilkins' P5 headphones, but put off by the initial $300 (now $250) sticker price and not so inclined to the in-ear C5? Someone at the company heard you, as we're now getting the P3 for a more affordable $200. What changes when you pocket the extra cash? You'll get aluminum and other hallmarks of buying the British outlet's audiophile gear, but the cost trimming brings a special "ultra-light acoustic fabric" instead of sheepskin leather and a more portable folding design instead of the pivoting earcups found on the P5. Bowers & Wilkins is light on performance details, but it promises that the design will be comfortable for long listening sessions, and there are both universal and Apple-friendly in-line remotes to make your phone calls and skip tracks. Black- and white-hued versions of the P3 should be hitting American shops in June. Update: Ah, some things in this life are just too good to be true. In this case, a B&W representative has just informed us that the stated $250 price point for the P5 headphones was an error within the press release. They are indeed still $300.
Sennheiser intros ritzy IE 800 earphones and HDVD 800 amp, your wallet screams
You thought Sennheiser had already done enough to appease audiophiles this year at CES? Think again. The company has announced yet another new set of headphones with an amp to keep it warm at night, but the high-end wares come at a high-end price. The ceramic IE 800 buds (€599 or $787) offer a broad 5 - 46,000 Hz audio range in spite of their mere 7mm drivers, while stainless steel vents on the back supposedly "improve bass and airflow." If you need some extra juice and don't mind forking over the premium €1,499 ($1,973), the HDVD 800 headphone amp's shell is rocking anodized aluminum and a glass window for peering at the bantam circuitry within -- way over the top, but also, pretty amazing. It supports 24-bit 192kHz sources and is engineered for ideal synergy with Senn's HD 800, HD 700, HD 650 and HD 600. Both should hit the shelves by summer of this year.
Sound Sofa is a sofa with an iPod dock
If you want to use your iPod in the living room for ambient sound, but abhor the look of a black, plastic dock, then you should check out the Sound Sofa by CSL. The Sound Sofa is a sectional sofa that houses a built-in audio system with an iPod dock. You can pick among different combinations of love seats and armchairs that let you design your ideal seating arrangement. There's even matching chairs and foot stools, so you don't have to sacrifice the overall look of your living room. The Sound Sofa starts at a US$1600 and is available in England. [Via Dvice]
HTC updates Beats Audio, makes it work with any third-party app
Let's just say we were underwhelmed by the first iteration of HTC Beats on the Sensation XE. But now it looks like the technology has been revamped for the latest One handsets, so -- once we've tasted the pudding -- we might just have to revise that opinion. The new Beats is claimed to make music sound more "authentic," and whereas the previous version could only be activated inside HTC's stock music player, this time it'll work with YouTube, Pandora, Spotify and any other third-party Android app. What exactly will it do with those apps? And will it move beyond its current gimmicky bass-boost status? We'll just have to wait and listen.
Klipsch Mode M40 noise-cancelling headphones review
Around these parts, we've generally had favorable opinions of Klipsch's audio products. Whether it's been something as small as its S4 line of smartphone oriented in-ears or grand speaker systems like its AirPlay-enabled G-17 Air, we've usually ended up awarding the brand our highest praise. If you'll recall, it was little over a year ago that Klipsch introduced its $150 Image One on-ear headphones -- the company's first set ever that weren't of the intra-aural variety, and a favorite of our own James Trew. Fast forward to the present, and the company's unleashed its second proper over-the-head headphone, the Klipsch Mode M40 with active noise-cancellation. In recent years, headphones have exploded in popularity -- many companies have been furiously trying to blend good sound with fashion-forward looks. It's safe to say that's Klipsch's end game here, and is asking that you part ways with 350 bones to get in on the action. Put simply, these aren't a follow-up to the Image Ones, but rather, a luxury pair that takes cues from the company's reference series headphones. Of course, as we've come to expect from Klipsch, the M40s do have some notable tricks up their yokes aside from their debatably fashionable looks -- the company promises they'll cancel noise for a massively long 45 hours on a single AAA battery, and both earcups feature an interesting dual-driver array with a 15mm tweeter and a 40mm woofer. So, have the M40s made us smitten with Klipsch all over again? Or not? Maybe something a bit more complicated? Click on past the break to find out!
Sennheiser unveils $1k HD 700 reference headphones, HD 25-based Amperior for mobile audiophiles
Here at CES, Sennheiser's just unveiled its latest duo of headphones set to please audiophiles at home and on the go. First up is the company's HD 700, which at a glance, appears to be a suave hybrid of its esteemed HD 800 and 650 reference cans. If you've lusted after the HD 800, but couldn't stomach the $1,500 price, you'll be happy to know that the HD 700 can be yours for a cool (albeit still wallet-thinning) 1,000 smackers. Notably, these 150-Ohm, open-backed headphones are loaded with 40mm Duofol dynamic drivers, and are capable of an impressive 10Hz to 42kHz frequency response. Next up, its Amperior supra-aural headphones take the already portable HD 25 DJ 'phones, and spices 'em up with an iDevice-compatible inline remote / mic, updated specs and aluminum, closed-back earcups. While there's no word on pricing just yet for the We're told that the Amperior will sell for $350, and it'll hit shelves along with the HD700 this March. HiFi audio lovers will find a detailed rundown of each unit's ear-tingling specs in the press releases after the break.
Klipsch launches Lou Reed X10i Signature Edition headphones, vivaciousness follows
We knew good and well Klipsch was dabbling in all sorts of various paint schemes when we toured its Indiana-based headquarters in the winter of 2009, and now it seems that one of those prototypes has found a place in the market. The company has just launched the Lou Reed X10i Signature Edition headphones ("coming soon"), a glittered-up version of the X10i that we already feel head over heels in love with. Outside of aesthetics, there's nothing significant changing here, but the extra $50 will net you a purple inline remote (compatible with Apple's iOS devices), a screened Lou Reed autograph, a 360-degree mic and a sense of gratification that could only be matched by being elected president of the free world. Or, something like that. Hit the source for a full helping of specifications, but it's on you to find a safe and legal method for acquiring $399.95. %Gallery-139413%
Altec Lansing announces a trio of 'Custom Series' in-ear monitors -- no, seriously
Sure, we've covered in-ear monitors from the likes of Westone and Shure, but Altec Lansing? Believe it. Taking a sidestep from its usual consumer-focused audio wares, the company today announced a partnership with ACS Custom to bring a trio of custom-molded IEMs, packing balanced-armature drivers to market. Each ear-mold is "handcrafted from advanced, medical-grade silicone" and you can expect noise isolation in upwards of 27dB, although, you'll somewhat disappointingly be stuck with Altec's signature smoked-grey and gold color scheme. The IEMs feature kevlar-wrapped cabling -- which notably, isn't removable like similar offerings at this price -- and a right-angle 3.5mm plug for hook-up. The trophy piece of the bunch, dubbed A3 (pictured), is aimed at music professionals and will retail for $1000, featuring a duo of treble and mid-range drivers along with a single woofer. For those leaning toward something less spendy, the $750 A2 variant drops one of the high / mid drivers in favor of a dual-driver setup, while the $500 A1 gets even smaller with a single full-range driver. Better yet, after ordering a set from Altec or an authorized retailer, you'll have a choice of about 300 audiologists -- hopefully within reasonable distance your abode -- to get you ear's impressions taken and sent over for creation. If you're willing to give 'em a shot, the Altec Lansing Custom Series IEMs will be available starting this month, and you'll find the full press release after the break. %Gallery-139366%
Soundfreaq's Sound Stack Bluetooth speaker sports dual subwoofers, $400 pricetag
Soundfreaq doesn't release speaker systems often, but it's safe to expect something spectacularly sexy when it does. Such is exactly the case with its latest audiophile-aimed creation, the Sound Stack wireless speaker. The company is toting this $400 Bluetooth-enabled HiFi rig as a "2.2" speaker system, thanks to its DubSub design -- a duo of active subwoofers pump out lowend in an effort to complement its two other "full-range" drivers. Soundfreaq's also packed this puppy with its UQ3 processing to keep the soundstage wide despite the unit's size. Better yet, downloading a free Remote App (available on Android and iOS) unlocks the system's FM radio -- perfect for when you're feeling nostalgic. If that wasn't enough, the Sound Stack's also loaded with an iThing dock and a USB input, both of which can be used to re-juice your devices while streaming. If your Gadget Acquisition Syndrome is already kicking in, fret not, the Sound Stack is available for purchase now. You'll find more details past the break.
HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio review
We had some hands-on time with HTC's new European Android flagship a short while back, but it wasn't nearly enough to answer all our questions about how the 4.3-inch, 1.5GHz dual-core XE compares to the original 1.2GHz Sensation, or whether the implementation of Beats Audio was anything more than a cunning scheme cooked up between the manufacturer's marketeers and Dr. Dre's agent. Now, though, this phone has been our closest companion for long enough to reveal its true colors. They're red, primarily, but there's a whole rainbow of detail right after the break. %Gallery-135086%
HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio, we go ears-on (video)
Guess who's back? HTC let us play with the new and improved Sensation XE in London last night and we even managed to find a secluded spot to bop our heads to the integrated Beats Audio and packaged YourBeats headphones. The XE is very similar to the original 4.3-inch flagship Sensation in terms of hardware, except there's a 300MHz clock-speed bump to 1.5GHz, a slightly larger 1750mAh battery and also a packaged 16GB (instead of 8GB) microSD card. But aside from that, we expect it'll be the audio credentials and related marketing hype that will attract most attention when the device reaches shelves later this month. Current Sensation owners probably won't even consider the upgrade unless they're chronic Dr. Dre fans, but what about those with more sticky icky icky devices? Should they be enticed by all the fuss? Click past the break if you think rap's changed and you want know how we feel about it. Update: HTC has been in touch to clarify that this device is not coming to the US. An intriguing decision to say the least. Update: The latest word is that HTC is working on bringing "other Beats-integrated devices" to the US market -- "soon." So, you might find this hands-on relevant after all. %Gallery-134610%
Sony releases XBA balanced armature headphones, eleven times over
This dizzying array might seem like overkill, but Sony's premium "Experience Balanced Armature" (XBA) 'phones are carefully targeted at different price points and types of listener. You've got the entry-level XBA-1 containing a single full-range driver. Add a woofer for bigger bass and you get the XBA-2. The XBA-3 also squeezes in a tweeter for high-freq perkiness, while the XBA-4 rounds it all off with a super woofer. Each pair also has a smartphone twin with inline controls, denoted by the iP suffix. Finally, there's a trio of single-driver specialists: the noise-cancelling XBA-NC85D, the sporty XBA-S65 with basic waterproofing for sweat and rain, plus the Bluetooth XBA-BT75. It's unclear when these will hit our hemisphere, but we're looking at a November release in Hong Kong and Taiwan with prices ranging from 3,000 to 14,000TWD ($100 to $475) depending on the model. Need more detail? We have product pics and info slides below courtesy of our bros at Engadget Chinese. %Gallery-134197% %Gallery-134196%
NuForce's Icon iDo amp improves iPod sound, costs more than a Classic
Ever feel the temptation to run your iDevice straight into a set of 250-ohm Beyerdynamic or Sennheiser cans? You could, but the resulting sound would hardly rock you. Thankfully, NuForce's colorful Icon iDo is ready to assist in your iAudiophile needs for only $250. This headphone amp -- supporting sampling rates up to 48kHz, 24-bits of resolution and a 10-20kHz frequency -- cables into your iPod's 30-pin connector to bypass the digital audio converter and uses its own to amp up the quality of your audio. The iDo promises to drive headphones all the way up to 300-ohms with 12mW of power via its 3.5 jack, and it's also sporting digital / analog RCAs if you want to share the love with some speakers. You'll be at the whim of wall outlets as plug-in power is required for operation, but at least its built IR receiver will let you remote control your playlists from afar. It's available today if you're finding your HiFi bugged piqued, and a backside shot with PR is just past the break.
Engadget's back to school guide 2011: headphones
Welcome to Engadget's Back to School guide! We know that this time of year can be pretty annoying and stressful for everyone, so we're here to help out with the heartbreaking process of gadget buying for the school-aged crowd. Today, we're giving your ears some love with a plethora of headphones that will keep you rocking around campus -- and you can head to the Back to School hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the month. Be sure to keep checking back -- at the end of the month we'll be giving away a ton of the gear featured in our guides -- and hit up the hub page right here! Whether you're dubstepping, duck walking or just plain sprinting to and from classes, you may want to add a soundtrack to your campus travels with some slick new headphones. Although, with so many choices and styles it can be a bit overwhelming to find a set that's right for you. Luckily, we're here to help! Don't forget to enter our giveaway as well if you want a shot at winning your own set B&W's brand spankin' new C5 in-ears -- not to mention more than $3,000 worth of gadgets that are sure to induce an extreme case of Gadget Acquisition Syndrome!You'll find some of our own recommendations just past the break, and another chance to enter our back to school giveaway. Simply leave a comment below to be entered to win, and click on over to our giveaway page for all the details.
Sony intros G-Series micro HiFi iPhone / iPod systems, blends retro looks with modern features
Sony's got a reputation for pumping out forwardly-designed wares, but its new G-Series micro HiFi systems are a blast from the past -- at a glance, anyway. Both rigs are MP3 and iPhone / iPod-compatible via USB and will be available in two different configurations. To start, the CMT-G1BiP / G1iP feature 60 watts of RMS power with DAB packed into the former for those who find only having AM/FM is passé. Next up, the CMT-G2BNiP / G2NiP add WiFi for getting your stream on from the Web or a PC and can be remote-controlled with a free iOS app. The "HiFi" moniker mixed with iPod connectivity might have audiophiles raising a brow to sound quality, but the brushed metal console and its piano-gloss satellites are lookers none-the-less. A single variant is currently listed on the Sony UK site, although there's not a squeak regarding cost or release dates. For now, we'll refer you to the PR after the break.
Olympus' LS-20M boasts dual mics and 1080p recording, split personality
Cisco may have washed its hands of pocket camcorders, but Olympus is ready to dive into the market with gusto. The company, best known for its cameras and voice recorders, just brought those two worlds together by announcing the LS-20M, a handheld whose relatively high-end audio specs should help it go toe-to-toe with Zoom. In addition to 1080p video, the LS-20M records 24 bit / 96 hHz Linear PCM audio using a pair of condenser mics. Alas, at $300 it has a small 2-inch screen and no optical zoom, but at least Olympus borrowed four of the visual effects that make its PEN cameras so fun to use. Look for it in June, and in the meantime, hit the PR for more details.
The Daily Grind: What game sounds do you like the best?
Sounds may always get the back seat to graphics and animation in MMOs, but in my opinion they're just as -- if not more -- important than what you see. If you'll allow for a bit of cultured snobbery, a game with lackluster sound effects are just so... so... pedestrian. Common gutter trash, even. I'm always keeping an ear out for great sounds in the games I play, such as the meaty thwack of a sword slamming against a mutated iguana or the sonic boom of a misfired mage spell. One of the things I love about RIFT is how the sounds are muted when you're underwater or near death; it's a small touch, to be sure, but it helps to pull me into the world even more. Are you somewhat of an audiophile? Then today tell us what MMO sounds you love the best. Are they spells, attacks, NPC noises, ambient sounds, or something different completely? Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!
Westone 4 earphones review
Westone isn't exactly a household name, even in the earphone universe. But what the company lacks in recognition, it more than makes up for in quality. If you'll recall, we had a listen to its ES5 custom in-ear monitors earlier in the year, and while they cost a staggering $950, they also managed to melt our brain and thoroughly spoil us in the process. Thankfully, there's a budget alternative: the Westone 4. Granted, even 50 percent off still lands you right around $449, but many audiophiles would argue that said price is a small one to pay when looking at a quad-driver setup, a three-way crossover network and an insanely robust set of earbud tips. There's no question that these guys are aimed at the professionals in the crowd, and if you're interested in seriously stepping up your mobile listening game, you owe it to yourself to peek our full review. It's after the break, per usual. %Gallery-119832%
AuraSound Sound Station is the audiophile-grade iPod dock for your audiophile-grade bedstand
It's no good plunking your precious iPhone into a little dock that tries to skitter away from you. You need something with mass. Something with presence. Something like the AuraSound Sound Station, which offers an "audiophile-class acoustic design" in something a little less... dirigible-esque than other high-end docks we've seen. It also sports a seven-inch touchscreen wedged in the middle there, enabling "unrivaled ease of use," also letting you play videos and things. AirPlay support appears to be missing, but the device is said to be upgradeable to make it a "living, learning machine" that can grow with you. That and many, many more idealistic euphemisms are waiting for you in the press release embedded below -- but no mention of price.
Oppo opens up preorders for the BDP-95 Blu-ray player at $999
If you're one of the audiophiles Oppo is targeting with its new BDP-95 Blu-ray player, click the read link to get in line first for the new hardware. Other than preorders being available, it appears that the predicted ship date has slipped to "early March" but if toroidal power supplies and SABRE 32-bit digital-to-analog converters are your thing, we're sure you'll be willing to wait until then to shell out your $999. Of course, that's twice the price of the base model BDP-93 that keeps the Blu-ray 3D and dual HDMI out accoutrements plus is available right now -- your choice.