Neumann Releases KH 120 II Next Generation Studio Monitors
Neumann has announced the release of the KH 120 II studio monitors. Building upon the success of its predecessors, Neumann says the KH 120 II design offers improvements in all acoustic parameters for deeper bass, higher SPL capability, and increased resolution. In addition, its internal DSP engine allows for phase linear crossovers and room correction via Neumann’s MA 1 Automatic Alignment.
New Line of Focal Theva Loudspeakers Introduced at Axpona 2023
With Axpona (Audio Expo North America) opening its doors in Schaumburg, IL, Focal has introduced Theva, a new range of more affordable loudspeakers combining pure hi-fi sound and design. The French brand has designed, developed and manufactured the six-model range to span the spectrum of Hi-Fi and Home Cinema listening at home with superior levels of performance. In every Theva product, Focal delivers not only in sound, but also through an elegant design and great finishes.
Audeze Releases MM-100 Professional Studio Headphones
Audeze, the premium planar headphone manufacturer, announced its latest headphone design made in collaboration with 17-time Grammy-winning engineer/producer Manny Marroquin. The new MM-100 are headphones intended to bring the "studio sound for everyone," with a more consumer-friendly price point. This is the second time Audeze will be teaming up with Manny Marroquin following the launch of the MM-500 in 2022, which immediately received a warming welcome from recording and studio communities.
Test Bench: The SW26DBAC76-4 Shallow-Mounting Subwoofer from SB Acoustics
This Test Bench article analyzes the popular SW26DBAC76-4 10" low-profile subwoofer from SB Acoustics, specifically designed (and patented) for applications that require a subwoofer that will fit into very shallow-depth enclosures. The SW26DBAC76-4 has a unique and interesting feature set that starts with an extremely shallow 79.5mm (3.13") cast-aluminum frame. The outside rim of the inverted cone is attached to the outside perimeter of the spider, and moves with the cone assembly. The inside diameter of the spider that would normally be glued to the voice coil assembly is then connected to the motor structure. This is a clever design.
Fresh From the Bench: Echo AIO - A Cost-Effective Audio Test System
Headquartered in Santa Barbara, CA, Echo Test + Measurement is a little company with a big impact on audio test and measurement. As many large consumer electronics companies started using its AudioFire studio sound cards for production line testing, Echo designed a highly cost-effective, modular range of USB-based audio test interface solutions, which Stuart Yaniger had the opportunity to evaluate. He completed a series of tests and shares his experiences with the new Echo AIO modular audio test system.
Sony Electronics Launches MDR-MV1 Open Back Monitor Headphones for Spatial Sound Creation
Sony Electronics announced the MDR-MV1 Reference Monitor Headphones, designed for sound engineers and music creators looking for accurate spatial sound field reproduction. The new Sony headphones combine sound quality with long-lasting wear, comfort, and reliability. The open-back design enables a wide sound field, making the MDR-MV1 a suitable option for mixing and mastering immersive spatial sound, such as 360 Reality Audio, as well as high-resolution audio stereo material.
Amphion Goes Active with One25A 3-Way Studio Monitors
Amphion announced it will be launching the One25A at NAMM 2023. This is the first active studio monitor design from the Finnish loudspeaker manufacturer, which, since its foundation, has remained faithful to passive speakers, although the company always supplied the full system, with a dedicated amplifier in a separate black box. This new 3-way reference monitor design is said to exemplify the brand’s 25-year commitment to advanced acoustic design, top-quality component selection, and pure signal path, while providing a uniquely Amphion twist to the perks of an active monitor design.
Rycote Relocates Operations to Upgrade and Expand Manufacturing Capabilities
Rycote, the renowned developer and manufacturer of shock and wind protection systems for field production sound, has been a key industry player since its foundation in 1969. In a significant update, the company recently declared its decision to transition from Stroud to Ashby-De-La-Zouch, United Kingdom, expanding its manufacturing capabilities and efficiency. This move underscores the company's commitment to achieving the highest levels of excellence in the audio industry.
audioXpress May 2023. Tubes, Amplifiers, and Audio Electronics!
In this Glass Audio special issue, Menno van der Veen brings us his latest Vanderveen TRANS-PP80 Valve Amplifier, Tom Perazella remakes a famous (Z)OTL amplifier with 300Bs, and Peter Dieleman debunks recurring myths in tube circuit designs. Stuart Yaniger reviews the Hypex NCORE NCx500 amplifier module, while Burkhard Vogel expands his article on Vintage Op-Amp Noise Simulations, and Bruce E. Gillingham concludes its unique MB1 Monoblock Power Amplifier with Precision Bias Control.
Bose Corporation Announces Sale of Bose Professional to Transom Capital
Bose Corporation, a US-based multinational audio systems company, has announced the sale of the Bose Professional Division to private equity firm Transom Capital Group. With this deal, Transom (the same company that previously acquired the LOUD Group of audio companies that includes Mackie - Loud Audio) will assume ownership of the Bose Professional commercial installation and conferencing businesses. Bose will retain its portable PA systems as part of its core consumer product business.