AKM Launches AK5705 Low Power 4-Channel 32-bit A/D Converter
Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) has developed the AK5705, a low power consumption 4-channel 32-bit A/D converter (ADC) with a built-in transimpedance amplifier in addition to a low-noise microphone amplifier. The new AKM the AK5705 ADC is connectable to current output sensors, supports a sampling frequency of 384kHz, and achieves a dynamic range of 109dB, while consuming 43% less power than existing AKM products. The built-in AC coupling capacitor significantly reduces the mounting area including external components.
Soranik Introduces World's First Dual MEMS IEM Design Powered by xMEMS and USound
In an interesting development, Soranik, a leading IEM manufacturer from Vietnam launched its new MEMS-2 in-ear monitor (IEM) design, which uses not one but two different MEMS drivers, both reproducing a full-range signal with no crossover. Inside the Soranik MEMS 2 IEMs we can find one USound Conamara 6mm tweeter, known for its thinness and integration flexibility, along with an xMEMS Montara full-range monolithic MEMS microspeaker.
Sphere Entertainment Unveils the Most Advanced Concert-Grade Audio System in the World, Powered by Holoplot
Sphere Entertainment is finally unveiling details about its Sphere Immersive Sound, powered by Holoplot, the world’s most advanced concert-grade audio system, which provides optimized sound to every seat in Sphere, a next generation entertainment medium opening in Las Vegas in fall 2023. Sphere Studios, the company that is responsible for the overall technology and content, partnered with Holoplot to create this completely new immersive audio experience.
Sony Takes the ANC Pole Position with WF-1000XM5 Truly Wireless Earbuds
Off-season, Sony Electronics jumped to the lead, and announced the WF-1000XM5 earbuds – the latest truly wireless model in its best-selling 1000X series. According to Sony's own internal research, using JEITA-compliant measurement guidelines, the new design offers the "Best Noise Canceling" by reducing external noise over a wide bandwidth, so users can focus on the music. While at it, Sony updated all other specs in this new flagship product, now ready for Bluetooth LE Audio.
How to Get Alexa-Enabled Devices AVS Certified
Getting AVS certified for your Alexa built-in integrations is no trivial task. Amazon expects OEMs to follow specific processes when building and testing their devices including Acoustics, Security, Music, Functional, and User Experience. David Berol, Director of the Authorized Test Labs for Alexa at Silicon Valley pioneer Surfaceink, shares his insights on what you need to know about getting your Alexa-enable devices through AVS Certification process. Learn How.
Hifiman Debuts Goldenwave Prelude, Fully Balanced, Class A, Reference Headphone Amplifier
Hifiman, the most dynamic headphone and personal audio manufacturer from China, has announced a new fully balanced Class A desktop headphone amplifier, the Goldenwave Prelude. Originally released by the Goldenwave brand that was acquired by Hifiman earlier in 2023, the Prelude headphone amplifier (SRP: $2,499) is the company's reference headphone amplifier, and boasts several features that make it an appealing option for headphone enthusiasts and music lovers.
USound MEMS Drivers Selected for LINNER Deluxe OTC Hearing Buds
The MEMS transducer technology from Austrian company USound has been selected by LINNER for the development of a new discreet over-the-counter (OTC) hearing device, LINNER Deluxe. The new design, very similar to true wireless earbuds like previous LINNER products, will integrate USound’s Conamara thin, lightweight, full-range MEMS speakers, recognized for their integration flexibility, and benefiting also from the Tarvos low-power amplifier integration.
State of the Audio Economy: Macroeconomic Headwinds Also for the Audio Industry?
How well is the audio industry doing? Is there anything specific we in the audio industry can do, or are we just floating with the tide? Any attempt to characterize the state of the economy for the audio industry is limited to reading the signs from what are apparently very distinct, broader product segments. Yet, understanding these larger and wide-reaching product classes enables a better understanding of the overall macroeconomic picture and trends in consumer behavior.
Book Review: An Exploration of Rock and Pop Venues, Acoustic and Architectural Design
In its regular Sound Control column, Richard Honeycutt explored this book by Niels Werner Adelman-Larsen., first published in 2014. This review covers the second edition, published in 2021, which is available in e-book, softcover, and hard-cover. The book was referenced in previous Sound Control articles and details an interesting study of the acoustics for rock and pop concerts and the differences in the acoustical requirements for these types of music. An important and updated perspective on modern acoustics. This article was originally published in audioXpress, June 2023.
Patent Review: Two Pioneer Patents. Same Speaker Invention
This article reviews two patents titled simply "Speaker Device" from four Japanese inventors, on behalf of Pioneer Corp. of Japan. The original and expanded patent describes a flat speaker device capable of emitting loud reproduced sound, using a mechanical structure that converts a linear voice coil motion in one axis to an orthogonal mechanical diaphragm displacement. The system functions much like a scissor-jack you would use to raise your automobile to change a tire. The linear motion of the threaded rod coverts the axial force to a 90° lift movement.