It’s Day 4 of Tech Guide’s 2023 12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas we want to help you find the right gift for your family and friends in this busy shopping period.

Today we’re talking about one of the most popular tech category – headphones, earphones and speakers which will be on everyone’s shopping list.

Here are Tech Guide’s 12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas:

Day 1: Cameras

Day 2: Smartphones

Day 3: Wearables/smartwatches

Day 4: Headphones/speakers

DAY 5: Gaming

DAY 6: Tablets/e-readers

DAY 7: Drones/Gadgets

DAY 8: Smart/IoT devices

DAY 9: In-car gadgets

DAY 10: TVs/Blu-Ray/4K

DAY 11: Appliances

DAY 12: Computers

DAY 4: HEADPHONES/EARPHONES/SPEAKERS

JBL LIVE FREE 2 – $199

The new JBL Live Free 2 TWS earphones offer some of the best value for customers who want to enjoy excellent audio quality and adaptive active noise cancellation and all for less than $200.

The JBL Live Free 2 TWS have a neat, compact design that fit comfortably in your ears for hours.

They have an oval pill shape which makes them easily fit in ears of all sizes and remain comfortably in place for hours at a time.

Under the hood, JBL has done it again with its Signature Sound which is an impressive mixture of clarity and bass.

READ OUR REVIEW HERE

APPLE AIRPODS PRO (2^ND GEN) – $399

Apple’s AirPods Pro (second generation) just got even better with the introduction of a range of new features that have been enabled by iOS 17.

These new features include Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness and Personalised Volume.

Since the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro announcement about the inclusion of USB-C, Apple has also released an updated AirPods Pro (second generation) earphones with a MagSafe Charging Case with USB-C.

The earphones included with the USB-C charging case themselves are identical to the earphones included with the previous lightning case.

Adaptive Audio is a combination between active noise cancellation and transparency mode which can adjust the level of noise cancellation based on the noise around you.

This feature is powered by the H2 Apple silicon aboard the AirPods Pro (second generation) which can adjust the listening experiences as your environment changes.

The good thing about it is that is intelligent enough to be able to tell what sound to suppress and which to enhance.

READ OUR FULL REPORT HERE

PANTHEONE OBSIDIAN – $1,999

When is a speaker also a work of art? Answer: When it’s the new Pantheone Obsidian that is a much a feast for the eyes as it impressive to the ears.

How many speakers have you heard of that are individually hand-crafted and named after a stone that’s formed when lava cools.

The minimalistic style and sculptured shape are striking – and this is even before we’ve even turned it on.

It is unlike any other speaker on the market – in looks, style and quality.

And the best thing is Pantheone is a 100 per cent award-winning Australian company flying the flag in the prestige audio market.

READ OUR COMPLETE REVIEW HERE

SKULLCANDY CRUSHER ANC 2 – $449.95

The perfect gift for any music lover this Christmas – so they can blast their Christmas carols on repeat. The next generation of the fan-favourite headphone, Crusher ANC 2 is Skullcandy’s newest premium headphone.

With features such as Skull-iQ Smart Feature Technology, hands-free voice control and a flat-folding lightweight and durable design, the Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 will be on everyone’s wishlist. Available via JB Hi-Fi or Skullcandy’s website.

DENON PERL PRO – $549

The Denon PerL Pro true wireless earphones are unique in a couple of ways – first they look a little different than regular earphones and second, they can create a personalised audio profile so it sounds better for you.

Denon is a brand we’ve known in the audio space but it has now turned its attention to personal audio with the PerL Pro earphones.

The most obvious thing you’ll notice is the slightly unusual design.

The buds have a flat circular panel that are quite noticeable. It’s about the size of a 10 cent coin.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW HERE

ECHO POP – $79

Echo Pop is the latest member of the Echo family and has a semi spherical design with an enhanced speaker to offer an improved audio experience.

The device is available in Lavender Bloom at Midnight Teal as well as the traditional Charcoal and Glacier White colours.

The front-facing directional speaker offers a full bodied sound that’s ideal for any room in your home or any small space.

And of course, you can simply ask Alexa to play your favourite music, radio station, remind you of your daily calendar, read your audiobooks and control compatible smart devices like lights and plugs.

FULL REPORT HERE

JBL AUTHENTICS – From $499

JBL has unveiled Authentics – a new series of multi-room smart speakers which offer a retro look, wi-fi and Bluetooth connectivity and access to both Alexa and Google Assistant in the same unit.

Unveiled at the IFA tech trade show in Berlin, there are three speakers in the range – the JBL Authentics 200, the JBL Authentics 300 and the JBL Authentics 500.

The speakers have a leather retro look and are fitted with Quadrex speaker grille which draws inspiration from the iconic JBL L100 speaker which was released in the 1970s.

READ OUR REPORT HERE 

BELKIN SOUNDFORM NANO FOR KIDS – $69.95

The SoundForm Nano earbuds are the perfect way for kids to enjoy their music and audio. With a volume limiter that protects young, sensitive hearing, and five sizes of ear tip options, these earbuds are comfortable and safe for kids of all ages.

The SoundForm Nano earbuds also offer up to 5 hours of non-stop playtime, with an additional 19 hours of battery life in the charging case. This means that kids can enjoy their music all day long without having to worry about running out of charge.  The quick 2-hour charging time for both the case and earbuds ensures minimal waiting. Available from  Amazon.com.au and leading Australian retailers.

SONY WF-1000XM5 – $499.95

Sony has revealed its new WF-1000XM5 earphones which the company says delivers a new-level of sound quality and its best noise cancellation over an even wider bandwidth for the best performance in any environment.

There are two proprietary processors in the earbuds that can cancel even more ambient sound than ever before plus dual feedback microphones and noise isolation eartips.

All of that adds up to a noise cancelling quality for Sony like never before.

On the audio side the Dynamic Driver X driver unit provides wide-frequency reproduction for deeper bass, crisp vocals and all the finer details.

FULL REPORT HERE

BLUEANT X3i – $249

Australian company BlueAnt has pumped up the bass in its new X3i range of portable speakers so you can enjoy your music whenever and wherever you want.

The BlueAnt’s audio profile has been tuned by audio engineers to offer crisper output and the thumping bass the company is well-known for.

This new model is being released three years after the original X3 was unveiled and offers a new design, a sturdier speaker base and BlueAnt’s patented Shimmerweave fabric.

READ OUR FULL REPORT HERE

SONOS MOVE 2 – $799

Sonos has launched the Move 2 portable speaker which incorporates brand new acoustic architecture with dual tweeters to offer wider and crisper audio from a relatively small speaker.

Under the hood are three class-D digital amplifiers and a precision-tuned woofer that can produce impressive bass from a speaker that’s small enough to carry anywhere.

The device has both Bluetooth and wi-fi connectivity so you can pair the Move 2 to a mobile device and take it anywhere or place it in your home with the rest of your Sonos system via wi-fi to enjoy multi room audio.

READ COMPLETE REPORT HERE

LG TONE FREE T90 – $319

LG not only make great TVs and home appliances they also offer excellent earphones as well including the Tone Free T90 which now includes Dolby Atmos and Dolby Head Tracking – a world first.

So they are useful for enjoying your music, movies, TV shows and games which are now using Dolby Atmos audio to create a soundscape that comes from all directions.

And with Dolby Head Tracking the sound is pinned in front of you putting you at the centre of the scene.

As you move your head the sound stay in the same position relative to your head.

READ OUR REVIEW HERE

ULTIMATE EARS EPICBOOM – $499.95

Indulge in the latest addition to the Ultimate Ears family with Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM. Crafted from recycled materials, its innovative design delivers a loud, portable 360° bassy sound. Waterproof and dustproof, it’s the perfect companion for indoor and outdoor festivities.

JBL TOUR PRO 2 – $329.95

When it comes to wireless earphones there’s not much that distinguishes one from the another, but the JBL Tour Pro 2 are absolutely one of a kind because it includes a display on the charging case.

JBL, one of Australia’s leading audio brands, is offering a unique user experience with the Tour Pro 2 earphones.

With the display on the charging case, users can control their music and all the settings without the need to open an app or touch their device.

And the impressive thing is the JBL display case is about the same size as a regular charging case.

READ OUR COMPLETE REVIEW HERE

BOWERS & WILKINS 600 SERIES S3 – From $499 a pair

Bowers & Wilkins has released its new 600 Series S3 – the eight generation high performance loudspeakers which include some of the biggest upgrades they’ve ever received.

The 600 Series is the second longest series in the Bowers & Wilkins portfolio after the popular 800 Series.

The release of the new 600 Series S3 comes at a time when more people are demanding higher quality sound while listening to vinyl or high-resolution streaming services.

READ OUR FULL REPORT HERE

BLUEANT X6 – $579

It’s go big or go home for Australian audio company BlueAnt with the release of the monster X6 Bluetooth Speaker that can be the life of the party.

This large portable speaker can go anywhere with you and offer a huge sound that can easily fill a room or take over poolside or in the garage.
Onboard are 15 light modes so it looks as good as it sounds.

Under the hood is 160W of power with punchy bass response and two equalisers tuned by audio engineers.

FULL REPORT HERE

TECHNICS EAH-AZ80 – $499

The Technics earphones allow users to express their own personal style, while enjoying impeccable sound quality in every part of their lives. Technics has drawn upon 55 years of experience to ensure the audio quality is pure, focusing on every aspect of sound – from the driver and acoustic structure to the mechanical structure and digital signal processing – so listeners can hear every detail.

What’s more, the flagship EAH-AZ80 features a new 10mm, free-edge aluminium

diaphragm, delivering the highest sound quality ever achieved from Technics’ true wireless

earbuds.

ASTELL & KERN – $499

Astell & Kern’s UW100 MK II is an update to the brand’s popular audiophile-grade True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earphone first released in 2022.

In the UW1000 MK II, Astell & Kern combines the unique amplifier and audio circuit technology developed for A&K’s digital audio players with an Asahi Kasei AKM 32-bit Hi-Fi DAC, to reproduce sound on a whole new level compared to other true wireless earbuds that just use the BT-chipset-integrated DAC.

The UW100 MK II enables clearer and more accurate sound reproduction in all music genres by adopting Knowles Balanced Armature Drivers, which are typically used in expensive IEM (in ear monitor) systems, instead of the Dynamic Drivers that are common in generic TWS systems.

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Spotify has unveiled its 2023 Wrapped campaign which shows the top artists, songs, albums and podcasts that more than 574 million people around the globe have been listening to.

And it was female artists who were dominating.

Taylor Swift was the most streamed artist in Australia in 2023 for Flowers by Miley Cyrus was the most streamed track of the year.

Among Australian artists it was The Wiggles that took the crown as the most streamed local artists and Riptide the most popular song for a local artist.

Country music star Morgan Wallen’s album One Thing At A Time took was the most streamed album in Australia, even beating out Taylor Swift who came in second with Midnights and SZA’s SOS.

Globally Taylor Swift was Spotify’s 2023 top artist with more than 26.1 billion global streams since January 1.

Swift was followed by Bad Bunny, The Weeknd, Drake and Peso Pluma.

Miley Cyrus had more than 1.6 billion global streams of her song Flowers to make it the top choice followed by Kill Bill by SZA and As It Was by Harry Styles.

Spotify 2023 Wrapped Global Top Lists 

Most-Streamed Artists Globally 

1. Taylor Swift
2. Bad Bunny
3. The Weeknd
4. Drake
5. Peso Pluma
6. Feid
7. Travis Scott
8. SZA
9. Karol G 
10. Lana Del Rey

Most-Streamed Songs Globally

1. “Flowers” by Miley Cyrus
2. “Kill Bill” by SZA
3.  “As It Was” by Harry Styles
4. “Seven (feat. Latto) (Explicit Ver.)” by Jung Kook, Latto
5. “Ella Baila Sola” by Eslabon Armado, Peso Pluma

Most-Streamed Albums Globally 

1. Un Verano Sin Ti by Bad Bunny
2. Midnights by Taylor Swift
3. SOS by SZA
4. Starboy by The Weeknd
5. MAÑANA SERÁ BONITO by KAROL G

Top Podcasts Globally 

1. The Joe Rogan Experience
2. Call Her Daddy
3. Huberman Lab
4. anything goes with emma chamberlain
5. On Purpose with Jay Shetty
6. Crime Junkie
7. This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von
8. Serial Killers
9. The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett
10. TED Talks Daily
11. Relatos de la Noche
12. Caso 63
13. Psicologia Al Desnudo | @psi.mammoliti
14. The Daily
15. Lex Fridman Podcast
16. Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard
17. El Podcast de Marian Rojas Estapé
18. Gemischtes Hack
19. The Psychology of your 20s
20. Stuff You Should Know
21. SmartLess
22. La Cotorrisa
23. Se Regalan Dudas
24. The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast
25. Conspiracy Theories

Top Sports Podcasts Globally 

1. New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce (US)
2. Pardon My Take (US)
3. The Bill Simmons Podcast (US)
4. Fozcast – The Ben Foster Podcast (UK)
5. Fantasy Footballers – Fantasy Football Podcast (US)

Spotify 2023 Wrapped Australia Top Lists

Australia Most-Streamed Artists

1. Taylor Swift
2. Drake
3. The Weeknd
4. Ed Sheeran
5. Morgan Wallen

Australia Most-Streamed Local Artists

1. The Wiggles
2. The Kid LAROI
3. Vance Joy
4. Flume
5. AC/DC

Australia Most-Streamed Songs

1. “Flowers” by Miley Cyrus
2. “Last Night” by Morgan Wallen
3. “Kill Bill” by SZA
4. “Boy’s a liar Pt. 2” by PinkPantheress, Ice Spice
5. “As It Was” by Harry Styles

Australia Most-Streamed Local Songs

1. “Riptide” by Vance Joy
2. “STAY (with Justin Bieber)” by The Kid LAROI
3. “How Do I Say Goodbye” by Dean Lewis
4. “LOVE AGAIN”  by The Kid LAROI
5. “Say Nothing (feat. MAY-A)” by Flume

Australia Most-Streamed Albums

1. One Thing At A Time by Morgan Wallen
2. Midnights by Taylor Swift
3. SOS by SZA
4. Harry’s House by Harry Styles
5. Starboy by The Weeknd

Top Podcasts in Australia 

1. The Joe Rogan Experience
2. Call Her Daddy
3. Huberman Lab
4. Casefile True Crime
5. The Inspired Unemployed

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Panasonic has released its latest SoundSlayer wearable speaker that can deliver an exciting audio experience while playing your favourite games.

The GNW10 SoundSlayer is the newest version of the SoundSlayer speaker released last year.

The lightweight speaker is worn around your neck and places four 38mm speakers right below your ears to add even more realism to your game.

“The GNW10 SoundSlayer delivers an immersive audio soundscape and intense gaming experience, along with crystal-clear communication,” says Fifi Tjiong, Product Marketing Manager – AV, Panasonic.

“It’s combined with an ergonomic design that removes pressure on ears and the head, so you can play hard in comfort.”

By connecting the transmitter to a PC or console via USB, this creates a wireless connection to the speaker so you’re not getting tangled up in cables.

The GNW10 SoundSlayer works with Windows 10/11 PCs, PS4 and PS5 consoles and the Nintendo Switch in TV mode only.

The speaker has new housing that’s 60 per cent larger than the previous version and offers improved audio and more powerful bass to help immerse you into the game even further.

The GNW10 SoundSlayer is an alternative to conventional headphones and players can still hear dialogue, music, sound effects and chat.

Play who connect the speaker to their PC can also install the SoundSlayer app which brings added functionality including accessing the equaliser, adjusting chat volume and choosing a sound mode.

The GNW10 SoundSlayer Is designed to be worn for hours and eliminates contact pressure around the ears and the top of your head that’s often the result of wearing headphones for extended periods.

Panasonic did a long study of ergonomics and created a housing that avoids contact with the collarbone and places no pressure on the trapezius muscles. The results in a comfortable lightweight fit.

Onboard is proprietary wireless technology that can transmit six channel audio signals on a dedicated 2.4Ghz band with the latency below 20ms so you can stay competitive and comfortable within the game.

There are also microphones on both sides of the speaker to make sure you’re heard during the game no matter where your head is facing.

The GNW10 SoundSlayer Also has AI voice control and noise cancelling that eliminates the ambient noise around you so your fellow players will only hear your voice loud and clear.

The Panasonic GNW10 SoundSlayer will be available in mid-December through Amazon and will be priced at $449.

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Rode has just released the Signature Edition of its popular NT1 Studio Condenser microphone which – after sales of more than six million units worldwide since it was released 30 years ago – is the world’s most popular studio microphone.

The new NT1 Signature Series offers the same high performance, durability and classic sound quality of the original NT1 and includes the original XLR-only design.

This comes after the recent release of the Rode NT1 5^th Generation which offered Dual Connect with both XLR and USB connectivity, 32-bit float digital input and onboard DSP.

For the first time, the NT1 Signature Series will be available in a range of limited edition colours – red, green, purple, pink and blue – so creators can add a splash of colour to their studio and reflect their personality.

The NT1 Series has a warm and silky sound signature and is the go-to choice for many musicians, voice over artists, podcasters, streamers any many other content creators.

Under the hood is Rode’s HF6 capsule which has been precision engineered for consistent performance in tonality and frequency response.

Background noise is rejected thanks to the tight cardioid polar pattern while still offering smooth frequency response, high sensitivity, balance and clarity.

The NT1 Signature Series is made in Rode’s manufacturing facility in Sydney and comes with a 10-year warranty. It is priced at $US159.

KEY FEATURES OF THE NT1 SIGNATURE SERIES:

– RODE HF6 large-diaphragm (1-inch) condenser capsule, precision engineered to sub-micron tolerances

– Tight cardioid polar pattern for excellent background noise rejection

– Classic NT1 sound signature – rich, warm bass, detailed midrange and sparkling highs for exceptional performance in a wide range of studio applications

– Smooth frequency response and high sensitivity for incredible balance and clarity Extremely low noise (4dBA) – the world’s quietest studio condenser microphone

– High SPL handling capabilities for capturing very loud sounds

Studio-grade shock mount and pop filter, premium XLR cable included

– Available in classic black or a range of limited-edition colours, including red, green, purple, pink and blue

– Rugged aluminium body and high-grade finishes – highly resistant to scuffs and scratches

– Industry-leading 10-year warranty

– Designed and made in RØDE’s precision manufacturing facilities in Sydney, Australia

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Google has released the new Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel Buds Pro with a range of updated features to round out the updated Google Pixel ecosystem.

Also unveiled today were the latest Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones.

All the new Pixel products will be available to pre-order from today and go on sale on October 12.

GOOGLE PIXEL WATCH 2 $549 (Bluetooth and Wi-Fi) and $649 (LTE)

The Google Pixel Watch 2 hasn’t changed much design-wise but there are plenty of changes on the inside including a new multi-path heart rate sensor for more accurate tracking of your health, fitness and sleep.

There is also a new body-response sensor and skin temperature sensor so the Pixel Watch 2 can also manage your stress levels as well.

When exercising the watch now has automatic start and stop reminders for seven common workouts like running, cycling and more.

There’s also Heart Zone Training that can coach you to train at the correct intensity to help up you meet your fitness goals.

Pixel Watch 2 now supports features like Fall Detection and Emergency SOS while Safety Check lets you schedule a timer for when you expect to be home.

When the timer expires, you are prompted to confirm you got home safely if you haven’t already done it.

Pixel Watch 2 comes in four colour combinations – polished Silver/Bay, polished Silver/Porcelain, matte Black/Obsidian and Champagne Gold/Hazel.

PIXEL BUDS PRO 2 – $299

The latest Pixel Buds Pro 2 will soon have Bluetooth Super Wideband via a software update which offers even more bandwidth for voice calls and for your music to sound clearer.

Also coming soon is Clear Calling on Pixel so you can be heard clearly on a call with the suppression of ambient noise around you.

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 also have your hearing health in mind and can keep track of the volume you’re using to listen to music and suggest times when you need to lower the volume.

Conversation Detection uses Google AI to detect your voice and then immediately pause your music and switch to Transparency Mode until you stop talking and then the music resumes.

They still have impressive active noise cancellation using Google’s integrated system, custom processor and custom algorithm.

The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 will be available in two new colours – Bay and Porcelain.

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Samsung has released the Fan Editions (FE) of the Galaxy S23, the Galaxy Tab S9 and Galaxy Buds which offer all your favourite features but at a more affordable price.

They include the iconic flagship designs and performance while offering powerful cameras and impressive audio performance.

“At Samsung, we are committed to bringing world-class innovation to everyone through epic mobile experiences that fit their lifestyle,” said TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics.

“Our new FE devices are packed with crowd-pleasing capabilities that, on their own or as part of a connected ecosystem, let Galaxy users maximise their creativity and productivity.”

SAMSUNG GALAXY S23 FE – From $999

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE has a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with Vision Booster that detect the brightness of your surroundings and keep the screen bright and vivid.

It also has an excellent camera system which includes a 50-megapixel lens and 3X optical zoom and that can also easily handle low light situations and still produce excellent images and videos.

The S23 FE also has a Pro Mode so you can dive even deeper into the settings and adjust shutter speed, aperture and ISO.

Photographers can customise their shooting experience with the Camera Assistant app.

The smartphone has a 4,500mAh battery for all day usage.

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is priced from $999 and available in Mint, Cream, Graphite, Purple, Indigo and Tangerine. It will be available on October 12.

SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB S9 FE and TAB S9 FE+ – From $749

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE and TAB S9 FE+ tablets can be used for work, for play and to create.

The Tab S9 FE has a 10.9-inch display while the Tab S9 FE+ has a 12.4-inch screen with both featuring up to a 90Hz refresh rate.

The tablets have the same rugged build quality and a battery that lasts up to 20 hours on a single charge.

The Galaxy Tab S9 FE is available from October 12 for $799 in Mint, Silver, Grey and Lavender.

SAMSUNG GALAXY BUDS FE – $199

The Samsung Galaxy Buds FE includes many of the company’s audio innovations and packs them into these tiny earbuds.

These include Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Ambient Sound and personal beamforming which uses the three onboard microphones to enhance your voice and separate it from background noise.

The Galaxy Buds FE offer up to eight hours of playback even when using ANC and a total of 30 hours with the charging case.

They are priced at $199 and available October 12 in Graphite and White.

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While the new iPhone 15 and new Apple Watches got most of the attention at the launch event, Apple also introduced the AirPods Pro (second generation) with the MagSafe Charging Case with USB-C.

With updated case with USB-C, this means users can charge their AirPods Pro with the cable that will be included with the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max which now also include a USB-C connector.

The new AirPods Pro earbuds also have an improved IP54 rating for durability which adds resistance to dust along with existing resistance to sweat and rain.

AirPods Pro (second generation), including current models with the Lightning charging case, will receive some impressive new updates when iOS 17 is released for iPhones this week.
These include Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness and Personalised Volume.

Adaptive Audio is a new listening mode which can give you the best of Transparency Mode and Active Noise Cancellation based on your surroundings.

Advanced computational audio can turn down annoying noises like chatter at a café and the sound of a vacuum cleaner while letting sounds like a car horn or airport announcements.

Conversation Awareness kicks in when you start talking.

Imagine you’re listening to music and bump into a friend, as soon as you say hello the music volume is pulled right down while enhancing the voice of the person you’re talking to while also reducing the background noise.
And as soon as the conversation is over your music and listening mode automatically resumes.

Personalised Volume uses machine learning to take note of your volume preferences while assessing the environmental conditions to deliver the ideal volume for your content without you lifting a finger.

AirPods Pro (second generation) will also enable Loss Audio with low latency when paired with Apple’s Vision Pro.

The AirPods Pro and Vision Pro both have H2 chips to allow for this wireless audio protocol that delivers 20-bit, 48kHz lossless audio while dramatically reducing latency.

The AirPods Pro (second generation) with MagSafe Charging Case USB-C go on sale on September 22 and will be priced at $399.

* Stephen Fenech travelled to the Apple event in Cupertino as a guest of Apple

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Cowabunga dudes! Laser has launched a range of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles-branded products to celebrate the release of the new film Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.

Created under licence with Paramount Pictures, the new Laser TMNT products include an alarm clock, portable speaker, charging cables, earphones, headphones and a powerbank.

Each of the products includes the latest graphics from the franchise so every fan can get their own Turtle Power and stay connected to their favourite characters.

“Everyone wants affordable tech now more than ever. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have been an iconic part of pop culture, capturing the hearts of kids and adults alike for generations,” said Chris Lau, Managing Director at Laser Corporation.

“As the franchise continues to re-invent itself and resonate with fans around the world, Laser is excited to bring this fantastic new range to Australian kids.”

The range includes:

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Alarm Clock – $17.95

The TMNT Glow Cube Alarm Clock includes a large screen with built-in backlight to display time, date, temperature, and alarms including snooze functions. Users can customise the colour of the soft LED glow around the clock and simply tap to activate the light for a few seconds.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Portable Speaker – $39.95

This is a compact, lightweight speaker which can be connected via Bluetooth to your mobile device so you can hear your music and take hands-free phone calls. It includes MP3 support via USB or micro-SD so that you can play all your saved music from storage.

 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Charging Cables – $19.95

Stay connected with the 1M cable length, with aluminium connectors and bonus cable tie with the TMNT Charging cables.

– TMNT Lightning to USB-A cable

– TMNT USB-C to USB-A cable

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 5000mAh Powerbank – $29.95

Keep all your devices with the 5000mAh powerbank. It has a built-in LED battery level indicator so you’ll never be short of a charge.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles TWS Wireless Speaker (In Green or Black) – $29.95

This compact, lightweight connects via Bluetooth so you can listen to your favourite music. The battery offers up to six hours of battery life and includes MP3 support via USB or micro-SD.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Wireless Earbuds with Charging case (In Black or White) – $34.95

These true wireless earphones offer Environmental Noise Cancelling, multi-function touch controls and up to four hours of battery life.

 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Wired Stereo Headphones – $19.95

These headphones feature your favourite TMNT heroes are foldable to easily fit in your bag and take them anywhere. They offer immersive stereo sound with soft-padded ear cups and a volume limit to protect young ears.

The TMNT Laser range of products is available from Big W and other national retailers.

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Technics has launched its next generation direct drive turntable which offers smooth and accurate rotation stability and a new power supply for lower noise.

The SL-1200GR2 and SL-1210GR2 turntables are the latest models in the popular GR Grand Class turntables.

“This is the first offering in the fourth generation of the Technics turntable lineup. A key objective with this new model is to further enhance sound quality by eliminating micro vibrations from the motor, using the new Delta-Sigma-Drive system.” Says Aaron Waters, Product Marketing Manager, Technics.

“Customers will also enjoy the classic Technics design in both silver and black versions, with a robust and stable chassis, the benefit of expanded cartridge compatibility, and EPS-free smart cardboard packaging.”

The SL-1200GR2 and SL-1210GR2 turntables have improved performance over their predecessors with improvements in signal precision in its digital audio components.

It has also taken direct drive technology to the next level with a significant reduction in motor vibration and an improvement in tracking precision.

The result is impressive signal precision that offers an accurate sound stage and a very low noise floor.

The SL-1200GR2 and SL-1210GR2 turntables also have Multi-Stage Silent Power Supply working at more than 100kHz alongside a noise-cancelling circuit which comes from the reference class SL-1000R turntable.

The Technics SL-1200GR2BS Grand Class Turntable (Silver) and Technics SL-1210GR2BK Grand Class Turntable (Black) are both priced at $3,299.

SL-1200GR2 / SL-1210GR2 Key Capabilities

– The new Delta-Sigma-Drive combines the highly reliable Technics coreless direct-drive motor with a new motor drive system. It ensures high accuracy and stable rotation, improving electromagnetic conversion accuracy.

– The system makes use of a low-noise, low-voltage variation power circuit through the combination of a switching power supply – using expertise developed from Technics Grand Class amps and players – and a proprietary noise cancelling circuit.

– The turntable boasts design inspired by high-end models, and excellent usability with a traditional Technics layout.

– 3mm die-cast aluminium cartridge spacers ensure an improved cartridge height compatibility of 14-23mm.

– It incorporates a rock-solid 2-layered bottom chassis made of aluminium and BMC (Bulk Moulding Compound), the combination of which enables high resistance against vibrations; a 2-layered platter made of aluminium and dampened by heavy-weight rubber; a high-sensitivity S-shaped aluminium tonearm and extremely effective insulator feet.

– To reduce its environmental impact, while ensuring that the turntable is fully protected, the new packaging for SL-1200GR2 / SL-1210GR2 is free of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS). Instead, it is made of smart-shaped cardboard, also including a cardboard box for the accessories for ease of removal and storage. Technics is currently working to expand new packaging to other line-ups and to integrate more recyclable content in the future.

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Sonos has launched the Move 2 portable speaker which incorporates brand new acoustic architecture with dual tweeters to offer wider and crisper audio from a relatively small speaker.

Under the hood are three class-D digital amplifiers and a precision-tuned woofer that can produce impressive bass from a speaker that’s small enough to carry anywhere.

The device has both Bluetooth and wi-fi connectivity so you can pair the Move 2 to a mobile device and take it anywhere or place it in your home with the rest of your Sonos system via wi-fi to enjoy multi room audio.

Move 2 offers up to 24 hours of playback – that’s twice as long as the original Move – so the party can go all day and night.

There’s also a USB-C port on the rear panel that makes it possible to charge your phone or other devices on the go.

On the sustainability side, Move 2 has been created with recycled plastics and uses a removable and replaceable battery to extend its product life.

The chassis and packaging were created using sustainably sourced content.

Move 2 is designed to go anywhere and has a durable design with an IP56 rating so it can handle accidental drops, splashes, rain, dust, dirt and sun.

It also incorporates Trueplay tuning which allows you to optimise the audio quality based on your surroundings so you’re always getting the best possible quality no matter where you are.

Move 2 has an intuitive user interface on top of the device or you can use Sonos Voice Control, Amazon Alexa, the Sonos app, Apple AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth to control your playback and check your battery.

Move 2 also has the Sonos line-in adapter which means you can connect your turntable, computer and other audio sources.

Sonos Move 2 is available black, white and olive and priced at $799 and will go on sale in Australia on September 20.

The post Sonos unveils new Move 2 portable speaker with improved audio architecture appeared first on Tech Guide.

Premium brand Bang & Olufsen has partnered with iconic brand Ferrari to launch a collection of products including headphones, earphones and speakers which all have a striking shade of Ferrari’s signature red.

The collection has been created to celebrate the things the two brands have in common including design excellence, poise, power and precision.

“We are very excited about this collaboration. There was a strong sense of history in the making as we came together to create it,” says Bang & Olufsen CEO Kristian Teär.

“It goes all the way back to the start for B&O and Ferrari. The founders, Enzo Ferrari, Peter Bang and Svend Olufsen, were visionaries, who redefinedtheir industries by challenging the status quo.

“Their legacies ring down through the decades to push both brands to new heights to this day.

“The combination of best-in-class performance, graceful aesthetics and meticulous craftsmanship brought B&O and Ferrari together to create the collection.

“This is elevated by the unrivalled heritage of both brands, making this collaboration one to remember.”

Between them there is more than 150 years of innovation which has been poured into this partnership.

Bang & Olufsen have been innovating the sound and vision landscape since 1925 when they launched in Struer, Denmark while Ferrari has been a figurehead of the automotive industry since 1947 when it started up in Maranello, Italy.

The partnership is actually a departure from Bang & Olufsen’s usual approach.

“Our classic speakers are meant to naturally blend in with people’s homes while also standing out for their beautiful design,” says Senior Vice President of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships at Bang & Olufsen, Christoffer Poulsen.

“This collection is different. They’re statement pieces. Much like supercars, they make themselves seen and heard everywhere they go.”

The Bang & Olufsen Ferrari connection includes:

BEOSOUND 2 FERRARI EDITION – $8,990

This is a 360-degree speaker that can fill any space with music and can be placed on the floor, table or on a shelf.

It includes Active RoomSense and proximity sensors to optimise the audio no matter where it’s positioned.

The Beosound 2 has a distinctive anodized aluminium body in the signature Ferrari red with the iconic Ferrari emblem sitting just below the grille.

BEOPLAY H95 FERRARI EDITION – $2,500

The Beoplay H95 is Bang & Olufsen’s flagship headphones with titanium drivers under the hood to deliver high quality sound.

It also offers adaptive active noise cancellation which can be adjusted by simply rotating the ear cup’s aluminium ring

It is finished with soft lambskin leather and offers up to 38 hours of listening on a single charge.

In this collection the headphones incorporate Ferrari’s jet black shade and include laser etched Bang & Olufsen and Ferrari’s prancing horse logos.

Inside the ear cups the titanium speaker grilles have been anodized in the rich red Ferrari hue.

BEOSOUND EXPLORE FERRARI EDITION – $450

This is a portable speaker that can go anywhere thanks to its IP67 rating which makes it waterproof and dustproof.

The Beosound Explore has Bluetooth and fast pairing so you can hear your music anywhere with up to 27 hours of playtime.

The speaker comes with Ferrari’s laser etched prancing horse logo and includes a black carabiner to secure it for your adventures.

The speaker body has two layers that are anodized in red and black to make the grill stand out from the dark interior.

BEOPLAY EX FERRARI EDITION – $900

These are Bang & Olufsen’s most powerful true wireless earphones with active noise cancellation and stunning sound.

There are six microphones onboard and intelligent beamforming technology so your music and calls are equally crystal clear even in a noisy environment.

The right earbud has a black Ferrari emblem sitting under glass and polished to provide a mirror-like finish.

The included charging case, which adds up to 20 hours of listening time, is also emblazoned with the Bang & Olufsen and Ferrari logos in unmistakably Ferrari red.

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JBL has unveiled Authentics – a new series of multi-room smart speakers which offer a retro look, wi-fi and Bluetooth connectivity and access to both Alexa and Google Assistant in the same unit.

Unveiled at the IFA tech trade show in Berlin, there are three speakers in the range – the JBL Authentics 200, the JBL Authentics 300 and the JBL Authentics 500.

The speakers have a leather retro look and are fitted with Quadrex speaker grille which draws inspiration from the iconic JBL L100 speaker which was released in the 1970s.

The JBL Authentics range of smart speakers can be set up and controlled by the JBL One app and are compatible with AirPlay, Alexa Multiroom Music, Spotify Connect and Chromecast.

The JBL Authentics 500 offers 270W of 3.1 channel sound and virtual Dolby Atmos.

Under the hood are three 1-inch tweeters alongside three 2.75-inch midrange woofers and a 6.5-inch downfiring subwoofer.

The JBL Authentics 300 has a 5-inch woofer and a downfiring 6-inch passive bass radiator which is all complemented by a pair of 1-inch tweeters.

The 300 is the only model that comes with rechargeable battery that offers up to 8 hours of playback and a handle so it can be taken anywhere.

The 500 and 300 also have an Ethernet port for a wired Internet connection and a 3.5mm audio input.

The Entry level JBL Authentics 200 has a pair of 1-inch tweeters and the full range 5-inch woofer and downfiring 6 inch passive radiator which offers a bass sound that belies its small size.

The JBL Authentics speakers will be released on October 3.

The Authentics Speaker range is priced at $499 for the Authentics 200, $599.95 for the Authentics 300 Portable and $999.95 for the Authentics 500.

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Bowers & Wilkins has released its new 600 Series S3 – the eight generation high performance loudspeakers which include some of the biggest upgrades they’ve ever received.

The 600 Series is the second longest series in the Bowers & Wilkins portfolio after the popular 800 Series.

The release of the new 600 Series S3 comes at a time when more people are demanding higher quality sound while listening to vinyl or high-resolution streaming services.

The 600 Series S3 are the ideal entry point to the Bowers & Wilkins brand so customers can hear “True Sound” so you’re hearing sound as the artist intended.

There are four models in the new range – 603 S3, 606 Se Standmount, the 607 S3 bookshelf speaker and the HTM6 S3 – a dedicated centre channel for home theatre systems.

Each is available in a range of finishes including Oak, White or Black and Red Cherry.

The 600 Series S3 has a new tweeter dome technology made of titanium.

It has an elongated tube-loading system inspired by the 700 Series S3 and creates a more open sound which is less affected by the cabinet that houses it.

The 600 Series S3 also include more power, lower distortion motor assemblies for midrange and bass/midrange drive units.

The cabinets of the 600 Series S3 have also been improved with the tweeter and main drive units now mounted closer together.

 “After nearly 30 years of continual evolution and improvement, we believe that the latest 600 Series S3 continues to set a benchmark in its category,” says Dave Sheen, Brand President of Bowers & Wilkins.

“Cascading key technologies down from our high-end loudspeaker ranges means everyone experiencing the new 600 Series will enjoy performance that genuinely delivers on our promise of True Sound and brings the listener closer than ever to the artist’s intent.”

PRICING

603 S3

$3,499 / pair
A floorstanding speaker featuring an all-new 25mm (1”) Titanium Dome tweeter, a 150mm (6”) FST Continuum Cone midrange driver plus two 165mm (6.5”) paper- cone bass drivers.

606 S3

$1,499 / pair
A standmount or bookshelf speaker featuring the all- new 25mm (1”) Titanium Dome tweeter with a 165mm (6.5”) Continuum Cone mid/bass driver.

607 S3

$1,149 / pair
A compact standmount or bookshelf speaker featuring the all-new 25mm (1”) Titanium Dome tweeter and 130mm (5”) Continuum Cone mid/bass driver.

HTM6 S3

$1,149 / each
A dedicated, high-performance centre-channel speaker featuring the all-new 25mm (1”) Titanium Dome tweeter plus dual 130mm (5”) Continuum Cone mid/bass drivers.

FS-600 S3 floor stand

$499 / pair
A mass–loadable stand suitable for use with both 607 S3 and 606 S3 available in black or silver and with top plate fixings for a direct connection to the speaker.

ASW608, ASW610 and ASW610XP

$999, $1,299 and $2,199 respectively
Three active subwoofers are available in matte black or matte white.

600 Series S3 Theatre

$7,096
5.1 speaker Home Theatre package featuring 603 S3, 607 S3, HTM6 S3 plus the ASW610 active subwoofer

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When it comes to earphones one size doesn’t fit all so JBL has launched its new True Wireless range which gives customers the choice of form factor and features and with prices to suit all budgets.

So how do customers know which JBL True Wireless earphones is right for them?

JBL has created a grid with three different series which have three different form factors and three different price points.

The three series are Wave, Tune and Live and each come in three different design options  – bud, stick closed style with tip and stick open style to suit your style and listening needs.

Bud style are ergonomically designed to fit completely inside your ears.

Stick with tip have a smaller bud with a short stalk and a silicon tip that fits your ear. These are a closed stick which means the sound is more contained within the earbud for a better sound.

Open type stick prevents pressure building up inside and offer a more natural sound.

The Wave Series is the entry level model and offers JBL’s usual sound quality at a more affordable price of $89.95.

The series includes Wave Bud, Wave Beam (closed stick) and Wave Flex (open stick).

Moving up to the Tune series ($149.95) introduces active noise cancellation with four microphones and smart ambient technology to stay in touch with the outside world while still wearing the earphones.

The Tune Bud has a 10mm driver and IP54 water and dust resistance, Tune Beam (closed stick) has a 6mm driver and IP54 water and dust resistance while the Tune Flex (open stick) has a 12mm driver and IPX4 water resistance.

The Live series ($199.95) is available in three shapes including Live Free 2 (bud), Live Pro 2 (closed stick) and Live Flex (open stick).

They offer premium True Adaptive Noise Cancellation with Smart Ambient which uses six microphones to cancel the outside noise so you can focus in on your music.

They have up to 40 hours of playback, up to eight hours in the earphones and up to 32 hours in the charging case.

Stay tuned to Tech Guide for a full review in the coming weeks.

The post JBL’s new True Wireless range have three different series and three different form factors appeared first on Tech Guide.

Rode has unveiled a new wireless microphone system – the Wireless PRO – which is designed to meet the needs of filmmakers and content creators.

The new compact wireless system is the most powerful Rode has ever created and delivers both versatility and high-quality audio to satisfy the most demanding filmmakers and creators.

The Wireless PRO has an impressive set of features not found in any microphone and Rode has managed to pack them in to this compact wireless system.

And Rode has still managed to offer the same pocket-sized design as the rest of the company’s range with a black-on-black colour to make them easier to stay hidden.

“In 2019, the Wireless GO was the first truly wireless microphone to enter the market,” says Rode CEO Damien Wilson.

“Rode was the first company to create a compact and easy to use workflow that forever changed the way creators capture audio for their content.

“The Wireless GO II took this even further, adding incredible new features and setting a new standard for compact wireless audio.

“Today, we take this iconic microphone a step further once again with the Wireless PRO.”

The Wireless PRO uses Rode’s Series IV 2.4Ghz digital transmission and near zero latency codec along with 128-bit encryption.

It has a wireless range of up to a remarkable 260m line of sight.

The device has 32-bit float onboard recording capabilities so you can record directly to the transmitters without audio clipping.

This means there will be a backup of the session and eliminates the need to set gain levels before shooting which saves valuable time.

There is 32GB of internal memory which means you can have more than 40 hours of onboard recording with dedicated buttons on the transmitters that allow you to easily start the recording.

When recording audio directly into the camera, the Wireless PRO uses GainAssist technology, first seen with the Wireless ME, that uses an intelligent algorithm to control your audio levels in real time.

This will ensure smooth output that’s balanced while minimising the risk of clipping.

The Wireless PRO offers a flexible output control with a 30dB gain range so you can set the mic’s output to suit the camera.

There are also pre-configured camera presets so you can set up quickly and easily.

The Rode Wireless PRO also has a safety channel which can output a second channel of audio 10dB lower than the main channel just in case the signal is too hot and clips the camera input.

This is like an insurance policy in the event of a ruined recording.

The Wireless PRO has advanced timecode sync capabilities which makes it easier to sync audio to video in post-production.

There is an internal time code generator that can sync audio with any camera which can easily be set up on a computer or smartphone via Rode Central.

There are also a number of other professional features including locking lavalier connectors to ensure your microphone stays in place along with plug-in power detect on the receiver which can automatically turn the unit on and off with the connected camera to extend battery life in the field.

The 3.5mm output on the receiver can also be used as a headphone output for monitoring as well as an audio input for headset or other TRRS narrator microphone such as a lavalier.

Wireless PRO can be easily set up to use on the go on a computer or with a smartphone using the Rode Central companion app.

Wireless PRO comes with everything you need to get to work including a smart charge case which can protect the transmitters and receiver wall not in use but also ensure they’re fully charged and ready to go.

The charge case also makes it easier to transfer data quickly so you can get your on board recordings to a computer in the studio or on the move.

Also included are two Lavalier II microphones for broadcast quality audio and the MagClip GO magnetic clips which offer other mounting options on the talent or on the recording device.

Also in the box are three high quality furry windshields so you can record in any conditions along with all the cables necessary for connecting to cameras, smartphones and other devices.

The Rode Wireless Pro will be available in late August and is priced at $699.

KEY FEATURES OF THE WIRELESS PRO:

– Compact dual-channel wireless microphone system

– Rode’s state-of-the-art Series IV 2.4 GHz digital transmission with 128-bit encryption for crystal-clear, incredibly stable audio at up to 260m (850 ft) line of sight

– Universal compatibility with cameras, smartphones and computers

– 32-bit float on-board recording with 32GB internal memory for clip-free audio in any recording application

– Advanced timecode capability for quick-and-easy audio sync in post-production

– Intelligent GainAssist technology, flexible output gain control and safety channel for ensuring pristine audio when recording direct to camera

– Locking 3.5mm lavalier connectors for complete security

– Headphone output with on-board level control

– TRRS input for headset or other “narrator” microphone on receiver for recording up to three audio channels simultaneously

– Plug-in power detect for extended battery life

– Complete accessory kit, including smart charge case, two Lavalier II microphones, cables, MagClip GO magnetic mounting clip and accessory case

– Easy configuration on a computer or smartphone via Rode Central

– Designed and made in Rode’s precision facilities in Sydney, Australia

The post Rode releases Wireless PRO – a wireless microphone system that’s packed with features appeared first on Tech Guide.

Sennheiser has released the Conversation Clear Plus earphones which do exactly as the name suggests – makes hearing conversations clearer even in noisy environments.

Not only can you listen to your audio content with the Conversation Clear Plus, but you can also use them to pick up what people are saying whether you’re in a busy restaurant or in the street.

The Conversation Clear Plus earphones lets users choose the level of background noise you want to block while still focussing in on people’s voices.

Also onboard the Bluetooth earphones is Active Noise Cancellation can also reduce outside sounds so you can focus on your music or podcast while Ambient Awareness mode lets you stay connected to the environment around you.

“Sennheiser Conversation Clear Plus reflects our customers’ dynamic lives, allowing users to follow every conversation with ease, wherever they are,” says Daniel Holenstein, Sennheiser Senior Product Manager.

“An independent study showed 95 per cent of users experienced significant speech enhancement in noisy situations when using the product.”

The Conversation Clear Plus earphones can detect and enhance conversations thanks to the Sennheiser Automatic Scene Detection feature which can analyse the noise levels around you and match the speech enhancement at the same time.

The technology has been incorporated into the compact Sennheiser earphones so it can be used at any time you’re wearing them and can also work when talking to someone on the phone.

The Conversation Clear Plus earphones have three listening scenarios – one lets listeners adjust the level of noise cancellation to hear your content, a second boosts the level of conversation around you and the third offers higher clarity while streaming content.

The earphones have a nine-hour battery life while the charging case offers another 27 hours of listening time.

The Sennheiser Conversation Clear Plus earphones are available now and are priced at $1,399.95.

The post Sennheiser Conversation Clear Plus earphones lets you easily hear those talking around you appeared first on Tech Guide.

Dyson’s Zone noise-cancelling headphones and air purifier – first unveiled in March last year – has now gone on sale in Australia starting at $999.

Dyson, a company best known for its powerful cordless vacuums and hair care products, has taken its first step into the competitive audio space.

But when you think about it – producing good audio is all about pushing air around inside a speaker – and Dyson knows a thing or two about air movement with its motors and highly-engineered products.

The Dyson Zone noise-cancelling headphones offers up to 50 hours of listening and high quality audio thanks to its low distortion drivers and advanced active noise cancellation.

Dyson engineers have taken a scientific approach with sound reproduction measurements, harmonic distortion and frequency response rather than extensive user testing like the existing audio companies.

Onboard the Dyson headphones are 11 microphones – eight of these are used to reduce ambient sound by up to 38dB by monitoring your surrounds 384,000 times per second.

The electroacoustic system is made up of 40mm and 16 ohm neodymium speakers which have a wide frequency range to allow accurate sound reproduction between 6hz and 21Hz, so you don’t miss a single note.

Intelligent signal processing equalises the output 48,000 times per second and neutralises distortion, so they are inaudible over the entire frequency range.

On the design side, the Dyson Zone headphones have comfort pads on the headband and earcups which can adapt to the shape of the users head and ears.

But not only can the Dyson Zone headphones reduce noise pollution it can also tackle air pollution as well.

Users can equip the headphones with a visor to stream purified air into your nose and mouth when moving through polluted areas.

Dyson has leaned into its deep understanding of airflow, filtration and indoor and outdoor air quality and have developed a system for the headphones.

There are compressors in each earcup that draw air through double-layered filters before projecting two purified air streams to the user’s nose and mouth.

The MyDyson app can be used to monitor and control the headphones with the ability to adjust audio settings as well as keeping an eye on air quality levels.

The Dyson Zone noise-cancelling headphones are available now from Dyson Demo Stores or via dyson.com.au.

The Dyson Zone Absolute+ limited edition headphones in Prussian blue/bright copper include the headphones, Explorer case, 4x filters, visor cleaning brush, visor sleeve, soft pouch, USB-C and in-flight adaptor kit. It is priced at $1,099.

The Dyson Zone limited edition headphones in Prussian blue/dark blue and includes the headphones, Quarter turn case, 2x filters, visor cleaning brush, visor sleeve, USB-C. It is priced at $999.

The post Dyson Zone noise-cancelling headphones and air purifier now available in Australia appeared first on Tech Guide.

Australian company BlueAnt has pumped up the bass in its new X3i range of portable speakers so you can enjoy your music whenever and wherever you want.

The BlueAnt’s audio profile has been tuned by audio engineers to offer crisper output and the thumping bass the company is well-known for.

This new model is being released three years after the original X3 was unveiled and offers a new design, a sturdier speaker base and BlueAnt’s patented Shimmerweave fabric.

“We’ve made a number of engineering and design tweaks under the hood that simply deliver the best audio experience for a speaker in this form factor and at this price point,” says BlueAnt CEO Taisen Maddern.

“What our customers are getting is a speaker which can be the feature speaker in any room or party, one that can be taken anywhere and everywhere, or one that can exist at home without standing out yet deliver the right level of audio for any setting or mood.”

The X3i includes Grammy Award-winning DSP software and the patented psycho-acoustic bass extension to achieve those deep lows and drops you’ll feel in your body as well as in your ears.

Also under the hood are intelligent volume stabilisers and customised equalisation so there is no distortion when playing music at higher volumes.

The BlueAnt X3i is IP67 waterproof so you can have it poolside, at the beach or beside your bath.

Duo mode also lets you pair another X3i to experience an even larger soundstage.

“I think people have come to expect that full volume in a Bluetooth speaker brings with it a downside of distortion, or that we’d compromise on sound or volume output to make this affordable,” said Maddern.

“We’ve worked hard to make that a thing of the past with the X3i. And the hard work has paid off.”

“Between the duo mode and waterproof rating, you can put one of these speakers at either end of a 25m pool and hear clear audio no matter how far along you are in each lap, and not have to worry about splashes, let alone a full dunking, ruining your day,” said Maddern.

The BlueAnt X3i is priced at $249 and available in select Telstra stores or the BlueAnt website.

Key Features:

– Portable 30-Watt Bluetooth Speaker offers 15 hours playtime with built-in power bank

– 2 x 57mm drivers, 2 passive radiators and Bass Boost button

– Bluetooth 5.0 and Aux playback options

– Duo mode can connect two X3i speakers, with simple re-pairing

– IP67 rating will keep the sound up at the beach, pool and everywhere between

– Features one-touch controls with Siri/Google Integration and built-in microphone

– USB-C Charging and Auto-Power Off to maximise battery life

Tech Specs

– Power Requirements – DC 5V 3A

– Power Consumption – 15W

– Power Consumption Standby – <5mW

– Power Output – 15W*2(RMS) @10% THD

– Battery – 3.7 9600 mAh (3*3200Ah cells in a pack)

– Total Max Power Output – 30W

– Frequency Response – 150Hz-20kHz

– AUX in Jack – 3.5mm

– Operating Temperature – 5°C-40°C

– Bluetooth(R) Version – 5.0

– Bluetooth Profiles – A2DP, HSP, HFP

The post BlueAnt’s new X3i portable speaker delivers crisp audio and thumping bass appeared first on Tech Guide.

Sony has revealed its new WF-1000XM5 earphones which the company says delivers a new-level of sound quality and its best noise cancellation over an even wider bandwidth for the best performance in any environment.

There are two proprietary processors in the earbuds that can cancel even more ambient sound than ever before plus dual feedback microphones and noise isolation eartips.

All of that adds up to a noise cancelling quality for Sony like never before.

On the audio side the Dynamic Driver X driver unit provides wide-frequency reproduction for deeper bass, crisp vocals and all the finer details.

The diaphragm structure has different materials for the dome and the edge resulting in even lower sound distortion and clearer audio.

No matter what type of music you’re listening to the Sony WF-1000XM5 can deliver the quality customers come to expect from the brand.

The Sony WF-1000XM5 earphones also have head tracking which can adjust the sound based on your head movements while still aligning the origin of the sound in front of you or aligned to a screen if you’re watching video content.

The 360 Spatial Sound Personaliser also lets you enjoy spatial audio where the music is coming from all directions rather than just left and right.

The noise-reduction technology combines with AI-based noise-reduction algorithm to also improve call quality and ensure your voices is crystal clear.

The earphones also use bone-conduction sensors to help deliver your voice loud and clear while suppressing background noises.

Design-wise, the Sony WF-1000XM5 earphones have a more premium and luxurious look and feel with a glossy texture.

They are small enough to fit comfortably in your ear thanks to the shrunken design that’s 25 per cent smaller and up to 20 per cent lighter than last year’s WF-1000XM4.

Users can control the earphones with the on-ear controls or with head gestures.

For example, if a call comes in you can choose the answer the call with a nod of your head or reject the call with a shake of your head.

Users can enjoy up to eight hours of charge on the headphones with another 16 hours from the case.

A three minute quick charge will offer up to 60 minutes of playback – long enough for a run, a session in the gym or a commute on a bus or train.

The Sony WF-1000XM5 earphones are available in white or black and are priced at $499.95. They go on sale in August.

Stay tuned to Tech Guide for a complete review in the coming weeks.

The post Sony reveals new WF-1000XM5 earphones with improved audio and noise cancellation appeared first on Tech Guide.

Amazon’s Prime Day is here and there are lots of tech bargains on offer during the sale on July 11 and July 12 – and we’ve gone through them and found the best deals.

Customers need to be Amazon Prime members to enjoy the discounts. For $9.99 a month or $72 annually, members receive free shipping all year round as well as subscriptions to Prime Video, Amazon Music and Prime Reading.

Here are the best deals we’ve rounded up:

Amazon Devices – Echo, Fire TV, Kindle and Ring:

– Save 63 per cent off RRP on the brand new Echo Pop, the latest compact smart speaker with Alexa, just $29

– Save 56 per cent off RRP on the Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen), featuring an 8” HD touchscreen with Alexa, just $99

– Save 50 per cent off RRP across the entire range of Fire TV products, including the Fire TV Stick 4K Max our most powerful streaming media stick

– Save 30 per cent off RRP on the Kindle Paperwhite range, purpose-built for reading with adjustable warm light, from just $187

– Save 51 per cent off RRP on the Ring Indoor Cam, watch over your home with the compact plug-in HD camera for just $49

– Save 34 per cent off RRP on the Ring Video Doorbell, to help you monitor your home your way, for just $99

Amazon Basics – additional discounts on already great value! 

– Save up to 30 per cent on select Amazon Basics range products including select Batteries, Luggage, Bedding, Kitchen items and more

Electronics, Home Entertainment and Videogames

– Save up to 50 per cent off RRP on select Philips TVs, 20per cent off on select Sony TVs

– Save up to 45 per cent off RRP on select soundbars, headphones and speakers from brands including Sony, JBL, Bose and Ultimate Ears

– Save up to 54 per cent off RRP on select Fujifilm Instax products

– Save up to 35 per cent off RRP on select PC Accessories and Routers from Logitech, Corsair and ASUS

– Save up to 30 per cent off RRP on select Laptops and Monitors from LG, Lenovo and Samsung

– Save up to 46 per cent off RRP on select Samsung Galaxy phones and accessories

– Save up to 30 per cent off RRP on select printers from Canon, Epson and Brother

– Save up to 26 per cent off RRP on select Nintendo Switch grey console

– Save up to 38 per cent off RRP on select Nintendo Switch games including The Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild, The Legend of Zelda Links Awakening, Mario Strikers and New Super Mario Bros U Deluxe

– Prime members get $50 promotional Amazon credit with eligible purchase of select PlayStation 5 consoles (per console purchased)

– Save up to 31 per cent off RRP on select PlayStation Pulse 3D Wireless Headsets

– Prime members get $100 promotional Amazon credit with eligible purchase of Meta Quest 2 or Meta Quest Pro VR Headsets (per headset purchased)

– Save on select Prism+ Monitors

– Save on select Prism+ TVs

– Save on select HP Probook

– Save on select Dyson V15 Detect Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

– Save on select electronics, chargers and more from Anker

– Save on select headphones and accessories from Avantree

– Save on select Bang & Olufsen

– Save on select Edifier Speakers

– Save on select SoundPEATS Earphones.

– Save on Select Viewsonic projectors

Ecovacs Robotics

Customers can enjoy up to 43 per cent off the recommended retail prices of the ECOVACS DEEBOT range.

There are seven models that will be available at greatly reduced prices – the T10 Plus, N10. X1 Turbo, X1 Omni, N8+, N8 and the Winbot W1 Pro.

Huawei

Audio deals

HUAWEI FreeBuds 5i – $89 (45 per cent off) at Amazon

HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 2 – $149 (57 per cent off) at Amazon

HUAWEI Sound Joy – $169 (27 per cent off) at Amazon

Wearable deals

HUAWEI Band 7 – $87 (55 per cent off) at Amazon

HUAWEI Watch Fit 2 Active – $177 (41 per cent off) at Amazon

HUAWEI Watch GT 3 46mm Brown– $289 (42 per cent off) at Amazon

HUAWEI Watch GT 3 46mm Black – $239 (47 per cent off) at Amazon

Tineco

– 36 per cent OFF FLOOR ONE S5 Steam – RRP $699, On sale for $449. Available on Amazon Australia
– 33 per cent OFF iFLOOR3 – RRP $549, On sale for $369. Available on Amazon Australia 
– 33 per cent OFF A11 Pet – RRP $449 and now available at $299. Available on Amazon Australia
– 38 per cent OFF PWRHERO 11 Snap – RRP $319 and now available at $199. Available on Amazon Australia

CuboAi

– CuboAi Plus Smart Baby Monitor 3-Stand Set RRP$499 30 per cent down to $349.30

– CuboAi Plus Smart Baby Monitor Wall Mount RRP$329 30 per cent down to $230.30

– CuboAi Sleep Safety Bundle RRP$699 30 per cent down to $489.30

The post We’ve rounded up the best tech deals for Amazon’s Prime Day sales appeared first on Tech Guide.