Bryston Unveils Flagship Active Loudspeaker Systems
Bryston has announced the introduction of their Active Loudspeaker lineup, featuring three speaker models of different sizes (Model T Active, Middle T Active and Mini T Active) mated to a sophisticated DSP-enabled active crossover (BAX-1) and Cubed Series Bryston amplifiers. Two new amplifier models, the 3-channel 21B3 and 6-channel 24B3 have been created especially for the Bryston Active systems.
Harman Expands Voice Solutions with Multiple Products and Voice Platforms
At CES 2018, Harman International announced the launch of JBL LINK View, a voice-controlled, smart display speaker with Google Assistant built in. The LINK View, featuring a high-resolution touch screen and camera, will join the recently launched JBL LINK series of voice-activated speakers. Harman also announced the new JBL Everest Headphone series optimized for Google Assistant, and a new Harman Kardon Allure Portable speaker with Amazon Alexa Voice Service.
Mytek Digital Now Shipping Clef Portable Hi-Fi System for Smartphones
At CES 2018, Mytek confirmed the shipping date for its new Clef portable DAC, which was unveiled precisely a year ago at the Las Vegas industry event. Now available for pre-order, the new Mytek Clef is an ergonomic hi-res audio headphone amplifier and DAC, offering up to 32bit/384kHz PCM, DSD 128, and 120dB of dynamic range, with driverless USB Class 2, MQA unfolding capability, plus aptX Bluetooth and AAC for improved Bluetooth audio streaming.
Fostex Introduces Two New Headphone Models at NAMM 2018
Fostex, a division of Foster Electric and one of the world's foremost manufacturers of headphones and transducer technology with over 40 years, announced two new headphone models to be introduced at the American Music and Sound booth, during NAMM 2018. The first is the Fostex TH-900mk2 Sapphire Blue, a limited edition 5th anniversary of the brand's flagship premium audiophile headphone. The second, is the T60RP, modified and tuned especially for music enthusiasts, featuring wooden cups and a balanced connection.
Wireless Charging Technology Pioneer Powermat Joins the Wireless Power Consortium
Powermat, the wireless charging technology pioneer, announced it will become the newest Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) member. Powermat will contribute its technology and expertise to further advance inductive wireless charging capabilities while maintaining backwards compatibility to the existing Qi ecosystem, which was recently converted to the leading global standard, following Apple's decision to adopt Qi in the latest iPhone generation.
Ambiq Micro, DSP Concepts and Sensory Join Forces to Bring Always-On Voice Control to Portable, Battery-Operated Devices
Ambiq Micro, the pioneer in ultra-low power solutions, announced a partnership with DSP Concepts, a global developer of embedded digital signal processing audio solutions and specialist in voice UI technologies, and Sensory, the leading provider of embedded artificial intelligence (AI) and speech recognition technologies. The collaboration aims to provide extremely power-efficient, always-listening voice control on battery-operated, intelligent devices without sacrificing quality of experience.
USB-IF Introduces Fast Charging to Expand its Certified USB Charger Initiative
During CES 2018, USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF), the support organization for the advancement and adoption of USB technology, announced that it will expand its Certified USB Charger Compliance and Logo Program to include Certified USB Fast Chargers. Certified USB Fast Chargers support the Programmable Power Supply (PPS) feature of the USB Power Delivery 3.0 specification.
Roku Unveils Whole Home Entertainment OEM Licensing Program for Audio Devices Compatible with Roku TV and the Roku Ecosystem
At CES 2018, Roku unveiled plans to make it easier for consumers to enjoy streaming entertainment around the whole home. Roku plans to make it especially easy for Roku TV users to add great audio to their TV experience, including voice control. The new whole home entertainment licensing program will enable OEM brands to build soundbars and smart speakers, surround sound and multi-room audio systems that use Roku Connect software to work together as a home entertainment network.
Cadence Tensilica HiFi Audio DSP IP Core Now Supports Dolby Atmos for PCs
Cadence Design Systems announced that the Cadence Tensilica HiFi DSP core now supports Dolby Atmos for PCs, becoming the first DSP IP core to provide this capability. Cadence has optimized Dolby Atmos to run on the HiFi DSP, enabling consumers to experience Dolby Atmos over headphones or through PC speakers while reducing power consumption and improving battery life. A number of PCs featuring Dolby Atmos are currently available, including Huawei's Matebook X and the Lenovo Yoga 920 2-in-1 convertible laptop.
Snugs Wants to Revolutionize Custom-Fit Earphones with Snapp Mobile App
During CES 2018, Snugs, a company specializing in consumer custom-fit earphones, announced its plan to revolutionize the custom-fit earphone market with the launch of a groundbreaking new mobile app – Snugs Snapp - that converts a simple photo into a 3D ear scan. Snugs Snapp will allow music enthusiasts and even musicians to order their earphones from anywhere in the world, without the need for a scanning appointment or visit to an audiologist.