TDK InvenSense Expands Design Options With New SmartSound MEMS Microphones
TDK introduced three new MEMS microphones as part of the SmartSound family of products for mobile and consumer connected devices. The new TDK T5919 is a high performance PDM digital MEMS microphone and is the first with built in particle ingress filter (PIF) for harsh environments. The new T3903 is a high performance PDM digital MEMS microphone with very low power and wide dynamic range, while the also T4086 is an analog output MEMS microphone in a tiny package, ideal for very space constrained applications.
Neutrik Group Announces Global Launch of REAN Brand of Audio, Video and Data Connectors
The Neutrik Group has announced the launch of REAN as a global brand and a complete catalog of connectors for audio, video, lighting, power, and data applications. Since acquired by Neutrik in the 90's, REAN connectors have remained available in select markets. Now marrying over 45 years of precision engineering know-how with the group’s own dedicated state-of-the-art production facilities, REAN is relaunched with a wider portfolio and closer support to audio OEM's.
Practical Considerations for Quality Control Testing of Loudspeakers
Integrating a power amplifier, microphone power supply, and analyzer required for speaker tests, the article details how the Audio Precision APx517B can save time in the overall test process through reduced setup and configuration steps. The authors also explain how this new AP solution meets the need to balance the cost of test including time, test methods, and system cost, against "the cost of failure" that might result from the expense of warranty repairs, or the possible negative impact to brand from product returns. This article was originally published in Voice Coil, April 2021.
Alango Technologies Now Licensing Hearing Enhancement Technology to OEMs
Alango Technologies announced that OEMs and ODMs will now be able to license the same technologies that power its BeHear Bluetooth assistive hearing headsets. The audio and voice embedded DSP software specialist firm is now licensing its set of software technologies for full-featured customer-fit hearing personalization and amplification, enabling the rapid development of advanced hearables in new designs and form-factors.
Sennheiser Introduces CX True Wireless Earbuds Focusing on Sound and Call Quality
Once again promoting superior sound quality as a differentiating feature, the consumer arm of Sennheiser, which is currently under ownership transition, introduced a new true wireless stereo model with plenty of outstanding features. The new CX True Wireless earbuds from Sennheiser offer a personal audio experience with crystal-clear sound, great battery life and effortless ease of use at an affordable price point.
Poikosoft’s EZ CD Audio Converter Software Now Supports xHE-AAC Audio Codec from Fraunhofer IIS
Fraunhofer recently licensed its xHE-AAC implementation to Poikosoft, makers of the EZ CD Audio Converter software that allows users to convert files into many lossless and compressed audio formats. With xHE-AAC encoding and decoding, users of EZ CD Audio Converter 9.3 will gain access to the best-performing general audio codec available today. The Converter also fully supports the xHE-AAC loudness metadata, with which users can adapt content playback to the listening situation and dynamic range available.
Skullcandy Confirms Partnership with Bragi for Software Upgradable True Wireless Earbuds
Skullcandy, the headphone company from Park City, Utah, announced a partnership with Bragi, the inventor and largest intellectual property owner of true wireless headphones, now licensing its software to brands and manufacturers worldwide. The partnership enables Skullcandy to create truly smart, future-proof audio products, infused with easy-to-use, transformative technology incorporating Bragi’s software platform featuring embedded AI.
Elk Audio Announces Availability and Pricing for Elk LIVE Realtime Remote Collaboration Music Service
Swedish startup Elk, developers of the claimed "world’s lowest latency audio OS," announced the commercial availability of its Elk LIVE real time remote collaboration music service (formerly Aloha by Elk). The system, which promises to solve the constraints still restricting live-collaboration between musicians over the Internet, is available to pre-order now, with the hardware interface scheduled to start shipping in early Q4 2021.
MSE Audio Now Shipping SoundTube IPD-TSB2.0 STNet Dante Soundbar
MSE Audio is now shipping its SoundTube IPD-TSB2.0 STNet Dante-enabled soundbar. Built with high-quality materials and stylish brushed metal cosmetics, this slim soundbar brings Dante audio-over-IP connectivity from end-to-end in conferencing and boardroom video installations and is interoperable with all other Dante products. This gives integrators additional flexibility when designing and installing audio systems.
VOXX International Confirms Joint Venture Agreement With Sharp To Acquire Onkyo Home Entertainment Business
VOXX International announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Premium Audio Company, and Sharp have successfully entered into a joint venture to acquire certain assets of the audio/video business of Onkyo Home Entertainment Corporation. This follows the Asset Purchase Agreement signed by the parties as announced on May 3, 2021. Premium Audio will own Onkyo and Integra products, IP and brands, and will market and sell the Pioneer and Pioneer Elite brands worldwide, except in China.