GRAS Launches New Configurations for GRAS 45CC Headphone Test Fixture
As the headphones market continues to grow, and more companies are working on frequency response correction and emulation for headphones, the requirements for reliable and calibrated test fixtures are also increasing. A recognized leader in the segment, GRAS Sound & Vibration has just launched new variations of its popular GRAS 45CC headphone test fixture, allowing for the incorporation of pinnae along with other new features.
Bluesound Professional Announces B170S Networked Streaming Amplifier
Bluesound Professional continues to expand its concept of a modern music distribution ecosystem for commercial spaces and new announced a high-quality, low impedance and constant voltage amplifier with a BluOS-enabled music player. The B170S Networked Streaming Stereo Amplifier is a versatile amplified streamer that offers a complete stereo solution for commercial installations, including native integration of partner music services like SoundMachine, Custom Channels, SiriusXM for Business, Qsic, Tunify and others.
Theory Audio Design Introduces 4-Channel IP Amplified Distribution Loudspeaker Controller
Premium audio brand, Theory Audio Design, announced the DLC-250.4 distribution amplifier loudspeaker controller, a flexible and powerful half-rack amplifier/controller solution. Ideal for any residential or commercial installation where distributed audio is desired, each DLC-250.4 offers 4-channels of intelligent power, a full DSP matrix, and is TCP/IP controlled through a wired connection, or directly via its on-board Wi-Fi access point.
PulseAudio Releases In-Wall Audio Distribution Amplifier
Vanco International, a leading manufacturer in AV distribution and electronic accessory products, announced the release of a new PulseAudio 6X6 in-wall amplifier and accessory kit for distributed audio systems. The PulseAudio brand allows integrators to create affordable, right-sized systems with easy installation and clean finishes. The new PA66MK2 distribution amplifier and accessory kit features PulseAudio’s hallmark flexibility and modular functionality.
Microchip Enables Qi 1.3 Wireless Charging with Authentication
In order to ensure high quality wireless charging power transmitters, the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) has released the Qi 1.3 Wireless Charging specification with the extended power profile. This new specification created demand for high security silicon authentication devices for full-service support. In response, Microchip Technology announced the new industrial grade TrustFLEX ECC608 and the automotive grade Trust Anchor TA100 combined with Microchip secure key provisioning services for Qi 1.3 power transmitters.
The Metz Preamp
A serious electronics enthusiast with an engineering background, when Reinhard Metz set out on this design the main goal was to create a straightforward stereo source selector, monitor selector, volume control, and line amp, and not much more. The resulting preamplifier, with 8 inputs, including MM phono, plus 4 recording outputs and a front panel headphone output, is a popular project. This article was originally published in audioXpress, August 2010.
Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar and Control App Receives Major Software Update
The future of Sennheiser's AMBEO technology just received an important boost with the announcement of the all-new AMBEO|OS to provide AMBEO Soundbar users with an even more immersive 3D home audio experience. With AMBEO|OS, all AMBEO Soundbars will now support Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect. Additionally, Sennheiser has completely updated its Smart Control app with an intuitive and new user experience to give Soundbar and headphone users effortless sound control and personalization.
Roon Announces New Partner Devices and Online Store
Roon, the innovative music management, discovery and streaming platform, has introduced its official online store, dedicated to showcasing the best audio products that work seamlessly with Roon. With over 40 new audio devices that have achieved Roon Ready or Roon Tested status in 2022, Roon provides the largest ecosystem for listening to high-resolution music on the widest range of high-performance audio equipment – from stylish wireless speakers to high-end AV receivers.
Soundboks Announces Lightest Soundboks Go Bluetooth Speaker
Soundboks, the Danish company that is also one of the most unexpected startups to ever succeed in the audio lifestyle space, continues to grow and just announced its second design in seven years. Being the famous inventors of the gigantic Soundboks Bluetooth speaker that required a reinforced dedicated backpack to be called portable, Soundboks now announced the launch of the Soundboks Go Speaker. This lighter, battery—powered version is still a big speaker for the segment, and uses an efficient Infineon Merus two-channel Class D amplifier.
Dear Reality Software Production Bundle for Spatialization and Binaural Rendering
Immersive audio specialist Dear Reality has been refocusing on production tools for spatial audio applications, including binaural rendering of those sources for regular headphones. To address growing requirements in that field, Dear Reality launched a plugin bundle to enhance any stereo production with a simplified mixing workflow and adding spatial audio. The bundle combines the dearVR MIX virtual mix room plugin with stereo music spatializer dearVR MUSIC.