Loudspeaker Bass Reflex Alignments
The use of standard filter alignments represents a foundational concept in the loudspeaker industry, with an impact nearly as significant as the invention of the electro-dynamic loudspeaker principle itself. As one of the creators of Speakerbench, a web-based speaker design tool, in collaboration with Jeff Candy, Claus Futtrup is in a unique position to discuss the evolution of enclosure designs based on this electrical filter theory, including the concept of an alignment chart.
Orchard Audio Releases New 500W GaN Monoblock Audio Amplifier
Following the launch of its Starkrimson 150W monoblock, Orchard Audio now announced its new state-of-the-art, gallium nitride (GaN) 500W monoblock audio amplifier. The Starkrimson Mono Ultra Premium represents the culmination of Orchard Audio's - and its founder's Leonid (Leo) Ayzenshtat - relentless pursuit of new approaches for audio. This meticulously crafted monoblock amplifier leverages GaN technology and unique Class-D design to deliver unparalleled power, detail, and clarity.
xMEMS Labs Debuts Reference Designs for True Wireless Stereo Earbuds and In-Ear-Monitors
Intended to accelerate the adoption of its MEMS microspeakers in true wireless earbuds and in-ear monitors, xMEMS Labs announced the availability of two innovative reference designs available for purchase directly at the xMEMS web store. These reference designs, featuring production-ready MEMS drivers, allow developers to get familiarized with the implementation and performance of xMEMS products, setting brands or manufacturers on a clear and accelerated path to market.
Nexum Promotes AERO Earbuds and Auracast Bundles on Kickstarter
Taiwanese audio company Nexum wants to anticipate the benefits of next-generation Bluetooth LE Audio technology and is promoting its AERO TWS earbuds as one of the first solutions on the market to harness the power of Auracast. Using an Airoha AB1565 chipset, Nexum is now promoting a Kickstarter campaign for the AERO earbuds, also sold bundled with the company's VOCE Auracast adapter and transmitter, which can be retrofitted to any audio device with a USB-C or 3.5mm aux output. One way to enjoy the benefits of Auracast before it becomes widely adopted.
The 2024 Loudspeaker Industry Sourcebook (LIS) Edition is Now Available!
The 2024 edition of the Loudspeaker Industry Sourcebook (LIS) refreshes the renowned annual industry supply chain reference publication and includes a valuable overview of the State of the Speaker Industry, including some of the speaker designs that stand out in past months. The 2024 edition also offers a series of must-read Industry Features, celebrates industry milestones, and includes our traditional questions and answers with a select audio industry panel.
IDUN Spatial Audio Now Available on Bragi 5 Platform
IDUN audio announced that its spatial audio software for wireless headphones and earbuds is now available on the latest Bragi 5 audio platform. The partnership between the Danish developers of advanced embedded audio solutions and the German smart hearables pioneer will enable users of Bragi-enabled headphones and earbuds to experience the immersive world of spatial audio, responding to a growing consumer demand for more dynamic and realistic sound experiences.
Alcons Audio Introduces WR20 Pro-Ribbon Stage Monitor
Following a preview at the NAMM show in January 2024, Alcons Audio has officially introduced the WR20 high performance stage monitor sound system. For this new design, the Dutch audio innovator is once again exploring the advantages of its renowned pro-ribbon technology to stage monitoring, matched with a passive-filtered system that brings the well-recognized dynamic and ultra-low distortion Alcons signature sound in a slim and unobtrusive package.
IK Multimedia Launches Improved iLoud MTM MKII Ultra-Nearfield Monitors
Adding a host of improvements while maintaining its compact size and price, IK Multimedia unveiled the iLoud MTM MKII active studio monitors. While maintaining the original's iconic MTM design, the MKII models further surpass the limits of its compact size to offer features that dramatically elevate performance. More efficient drivers, twice the processing power, and now with advanced ARC auto-calibration already built-in.
Infineon Announces Next Generation CoolGaN Transistor Families
Infineon Technologies announced two new generations of high voltage (HV) and medium voltage (MV) CoolGaN devices which now enable Gallium Nitride (GaN) to be used in voltage classes from 40V to 700V in a broader array of applications that help drive digitalization and decarbonization. These two product families, now expanded with the portfolio that resulted from the GaN Systems acquisition, are manufactured on high performance 8-inch in-house foundry processes in Kulim (Malaysia) and Villach (Austria).
2024 Jeep Wagoneer S Launch Edition Features Exclusive McIntosh Entertainment System
The 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S Launch Edition will be the first electric vehicle to feature a completely new McIntosh-branded entertainment system. The new segment-exclusive MX1200 Entertainment System will be available in the Jeep brand's first global battery-electric vehicle (BEV), which will launch first in the US and Canada. Meticulously engineered and tuned by the luxury audio brand for the Jeep Wagoneer S, the new entertainment system fully translates McIntosh's unique experience to an electric vehicle.