Bluesound Introduces New Generation Node and PowerNode Hi-Res Multiroom Streaming DAC and Amplifier
Bluesound has announced a new generation of its best-selling Node Wireless Hi-Res Multi-Room Music Streamer and PowerNode Wireless Hi-Res Multi-Room Streaming Amplifier. The upgrades include new DAC designs, more powerful quad-core processors, and touch panel controls with presets and proximity sensors, while the PowerNode now offers substantially more power. Both feature an easy-to-clean satin finish in either black or white.
CEVA to Acquire Intrinsix to Offer Full Turnkey SoC Platforms
CEVA announced that it agreed to acquire Massachusetts-based Intrinsix Corp., a leading chip design specialist, for approximately $33 million in cash, subject to working capital and other customary purchase price adjustments. The closing of the acquisition is anticipated to take place during the second quarter of 2021. The acquisition allows CEVA to offer IP, software and chip development.
PreSonus Introduces MicroStation BT Bluetooth 5 Stereo Monitor Controller
Recognizing the ubiquity of Bluetooth as a requested wireless audio option, PreSonus announced a new stereo receiver solution for convenient connectivity with studio monitors and speakers. The new PreSonus MicroStation BT compact device is a Bluetooth 5.1 stereo monitor controller that is able to receive audio from a smartphone, tablet, or another Bluetooth source and feed it to existing audio systems. For better integration with studio systems, the MicroStation BT can also be hardwired to a powered subwoofer to create a 2.1 listening environment.
HEAD acoustics and Rohde & Schwarz Test Voice over 5G New Radio Communication Quality
Working together with Rohde & Schwarz, HEAD acoustics have created a test solution that was able to successfully verify the communication quality of 5G (VoNR)-capable devices. VoNR, or “Voice over 5G New Radio” is a call service which fully explores the capabilities in the SA architecture for 5G networks. Compared to other communication services, VoNR provides significantly lower latency and improved sound and picture quality, improving the calling experience.
Sonova Acquires Sennheiser Consumer Division to Expand and Enter New Growth Markets
Hearing solutions provider Sonova Holding AG, has signed an agreement to acquire the Consumer Division from Sennheiser electronic GmbH & Co. KG (Sennheiser). The announcement from the Switzerland-based company follows on the statement, made earlier in 2021, that Sennheiser was planning to focus on its Professional business, and aiming to secure a partnership to strengthen its market position in Consumer Electronics.
Deezer Makes Strategic Investment in Dreamstage to Expand Into Live Music Streaming
Deezer, the audio streaming service, is becoming a cornerstone investor in Dreamstage, a US-based live music streaming startup. Like all streaming content companies, the expansion into live concerts is regarded as a promising option for differentiation and subscriber retention. The new funding will also enable Dreamstage to significantly speed up growth and expand its operations.
Loudsoft Appoints New North American Agent
Loudsoft, one of the leading global providers of loudspeaker and headphone design software and test equipment, announced the appointment of Andy Lewis of Sound Product Strategy as the new North American agent. Loudsoft, offers a complete range of FINE Design Software and Test & Measurement solutions, including speaker and headphone test systems, and the globally recognized FINE R+D)) Acoustic Audio Analyzer System.
Test Bench: The AUGWL0006-JN01 Aluminum Cone Woofer from Eastech’s Punktkilde Line
The AUGWL0006-JN01 is a new 2.25" woofer from Eastech’s Punktkilde lineup. With a depth of 7/8", the AUGWL0006-JN01 is part of the Ultra-Thin Series. The feature set is rather clever, using a black anodized aluminum cone assembly and dust cap, suspended with a NBR surround. A 25mm round foam surround supplies the additional compliance, and a large 35.5mm diameter under hung voice coil rides inside a double set of neodymium ring magnets. This article was originally published in Voice Coil, February 2021.
R&D Stories: The Evolution of True Wireless Stereo
Adding a valuable perspective to the topic of True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds and hearables development, Jean-Marc Luneau (7 Sensing Software) details meaningful new features and improvements for brands to differentiate their products and make them stand out in today’s crowded market. This article was originally published in audioXpress April 2021.
Sensory Privacy-Focused Custom Voice Assistants Power New Generation Appliances
Deep learning voice AI is finding its way into everything from appliances to toys. Sensory believes that not all applications require Internet-based voice assistant platforms and that privacy is key for consumers’ acceptance. But so is reliability. For such requirements Sensory now offers its fully edge-based Custom Voice Assistants solution that offers total privacy.