You Can DIY! Built-In Guitar Effects
A fresh, analog-friendly electronics project, this article proposes one of many DIY examples from the author’s Audio Circuits Cookbook. An excellent way to dive into the art of guitar effects and tone shaping, benefiting from the experience of someone who's been doing this since the 1960s, this article shows how to rewire a typical guitar using a Fender Telecaster as the example, and how to build small high-gain circuits like a fuzz-tone or a compressor, to great effect.
Røde Launches NTH-50 On-Ear Headphones
Following the enormous success of its NTH-100 circumaural headphones launched in 2022, Røde has now unveiled the NTH-50 professional on-ear headphones, expanding its lineup. With a design that is somewhat similar to the famous Sennheiser HD 25 without being a blatant copy, the new NTH-50s are made for professionals and any user who demands sonic precision, exceptional comfort, and superior noise isolation in a lightweight, durable on-ear design. At the heart of the NTH-50 headphones is a custom-engineered 40mm dynamic driver.
Qobuz Launches Qobuz Connect at High End 2025
Qobuz, the French high-quality music streaming and download platform, is the latest to launch a direct streaming feature that offers simplified control and seamless continuity between devices. Qobuz Connect enables users to stream music directly using Qobuz to control their compatible hifi devices without the need for third-party applications, while benefiting from the best possible sound quality.
Dirac AudioIQ Now Supported by Asahi Kasei Microdevices’ Automotive DSPs
Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) and Swedish digital audio processing pioneer Dirac have announced a partnership to integrate Dirac’s suite of software-defined smart acoustics solutions, AudioIQ, into AKM’s line of automotive audio digital signal processors (DSPs), including the flagship AK7709. The partnership provides OEMs and Tier 1 partners with a scalable suite of advanced algorithms as an embedded turnkey solution, significantly reducing tuning time while enhancing sound quality within vehicle interiors.
ESS Technology Announces New Flagship SMART High-Resolution Analog-to-Digital Converters
ESS Technology has announced three new flagship Sabre Pro Smart Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADCs) based on the company’s patented Hyperstream IV ADC architecture. The new devices target both professional and consumer audio applications and include the ES9823MPRO and ES9823PRO 2-channel ADCs and the 4-channel ES9843PRO ADC. The Sabre ES9823MPRO is the first ADC to incorporate the new FOQUS by MQA Labs architecture, eliminating unnatural pre-ringing and post-ringing of impulse responses.
Apple CarPlay Ultra Showcases New Approach in Automotive Software Integration
Many automakers still struggle with dashboard software and user interfaces for the car, leading drivers to mostly ignore the features that were painstakingly implemented at enormous cost. This also encourages the use of CarPlay or Android Auto display and controller solutions. Apple designed CarPlay Ultra to offer a deeper level of software integration with the car’s systems, with a unique look and feel for each automaker. The first CarPlay Ultra integration is now available from luxury brand Aston Martin.
Sony WH-1000XM6 Noise Cancellation Headphones Revealed. What Changed Three Years Later?
In May 2022, Sony launched the WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones, which immediately reclaimed the position as a market reference in active noise cancelling headphones and personal audio. Three years later, the new WH-1000XM6 model, powered by next-gen processors, 12 microphones, and intelligent algorithms, combines the best noise canceling into a new seamless, foldable design. This time, guided by world-renowned mastering audio engineers, Sony expects the WH-1000XM6 headphones to set a new standard for music lovers, travelers, and music professionals.
WiiM Expands Lineup with WiiM Amp Ultra Smart Amplifier
WiiM introduced its most powerful and refined streaming amplifier to date: the WiiM Amp Ultra. Housed in an aluminum chassis and featuring a vibrant 3.5” glass-covered touchscreen, the WiiM Amp Ultra delivers 100W per channel at 8 ohms, with ultra-low distortion. The WiiM Amp Ultra builds on the streaming power of the existing Amp Pro model, and combines it with the premium display experience introduced in the WiiM Ultra streamer, adding more output options for home theater applications.
NAD Electronics Introduces Next-Generation Masters M33 V2 and M23 V2 Amplifiers
NAD Electronics announced the release of two updates to its Masters Series: the M33 V2 BluOS Streaming Amplifier and the M23 V2 Stereo Power Amplifier. These next-generation models build on the legacy of the original M33 and M23 with cutting-edge digital architecture, refined sonic performance, and enhanced connectivity. An upgrade that expands on the successful models that have proven to be favorites for custom integrators, premium audio dealers, and discerning listeners.
Test Bench: Dayton Audio’s UMII10-22 Ultimax II 10” Subwoofer
This Test Bench characterizes the Dayton Audio UMII10-22 Ultimax II 10" Subwoofer, a recent example of the upgraded, high-performance designs that succeeded the brand’s original Ultimax subwoofer line. Available for now in four diameters (18", 12", 10", and 8"), the common feature set for the new line includes a large aluminum shorting ring and aluminum pole sleeve for lower magnetic distortion, a lightweight and rigid woven carbon fiber cone assembly, high Xmax, with a frame and motor designed with extensive thermal venting, all optimized for compact sealed enclosures.