Latest news with #audiophiles
Forbes
21 hours ago
- Business
- Forbes
Noble Audio Introduces New Multi-Driver Knight IEMs With An Entry-Level Price Tag
Buying a pair of In-Ear Monitors, such as the recently launched Campfire Audio Clara IEMs, will set you back $2,000. They sound great but not everyone is willing to drop that much on a pair of posh earbuds. However, if you want a high-performance pair of multi-driver IEMs but you can't or won't pay a high price tag, then the new Noble Audio Knight IEMs might be just what you've been looking for. For the past decade, Noble Audio has been building a reputation for itself by making some excellent IEMs aimed at discerning audiophiles at the top end of the market. The company has a passion for making hand-crafted IEMs with both universal and custom fits. Custom fit IEMs are molded to suit an individual's ears, while universal IEMs use ear-tips of different sizes to suit all ears. With the launch of the new Knight IEM, Noble Audio is taking aim at the growing market for entry-level market for IEMs. Plenty of people want the subtleties and sophistication of multi-driver IEMs but without the eye-watering price tag. By producing an affordable pair of multi-driver IEMs, without compromising on sound and build quality, Noble Audio hopes to bag a slice of this growing market. Historically, knights in shining armor were members of the nobility and warriors whose job it was to protecting a kingdom and its subjects. Knights were expected to embody honesty and chivalry. It's the honesty that Noble is chasing on with the Knight IEMs thanks to their carefully engineered response at a sensible price. With Noble Audio's rich signature sound , the Knight IEMs offer a premium performance at an accessible price without compromising on sound quality. Encased in an aluminum shell with a striking three-dimensional acrylic faceplate in deep purple and blue, the Knight IEMs strike a bold look. Designed to offer clarity and a rich audio performance, the Knight IEMs are fitted with a dual-magnet, dynamic 10mm driver in each earpiece. This robust driver can elevate the power of the overall audio performance while serving up a deep and controlled bass and sub-bass which creates a more immersive listening experience. Alongside the dynamic drivers, Noble Audio has selected a Sonion balanced armature driver which has exceptional clarity as well as articulate mid-range frequencies. For the treble end of the sound, Noble has opted for a Piezo super tweeter that rounds things off with detailed high frequencies that provide the focus for a stereo soundstage. The Noble Knight IEMs are priced affordably, although the company says it hasn't cut corners on quality. The combination of all three drivers enables the Knight IEMs to adapt to a wide range of musical genres and can provide the kind of audio performance that will satisfy the demands of everyone from enthusiasts, audiophiles or casual listeners looking for an audio upgrade. The Knight IEMs ship with high-quality 8-core OCC cable with OFC silver plating. The cable is coated in a PU skin-friendly material and is detachable, using 0.78-2 pin connectors with L/R markings. The cable is terminated with a balanced 4.4mm Pentaconn jack plug, although the detachable two-pin cable can be easily swapped out or upgraded with different cable and plug. The Noble Audio Knight IEMS are available to buy from and priced at $289 / £269 / €309 which is significantly less than many high-end and multi-driver IEMS.
Forbes
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Forbes
We've Got The Beat: Maserati GranTurismo And Its Super Sound System
Maserati GranTurismo Trofeo Maserati In the heart of the Chelsea district in New York City, the House of Sound opened in September of 2023. This showcase for audio brands in the McIntosh Group—McIntosh, Sonus faber, Pro-Ject, Rotel, and Sumiko—is a haven for audiophiles, set up for immersive introductions to some of the high-quality sound money can buy. And to match, a striking Maserati GranTurismo Trofeo finished in a vibrant yellow (called Giallo Modenese) is in the garage. During the New York Auto Show this year, Maserati showed off its premium Sonus faber sound system within the Maserati GranTurismo. Inside the Maserati are 19 carefully placed speakers, and Sonus faber Global Marketing Manager for Automotive and Marine Raffaele Frontera demonstrated the setup's chops with rich, multilayered songs like Queen's 'We Will Rock You' and Frank Sinatra's 'Fly Me to the Moon.' One floor above the Maserati display, Sonus faber offered demonstrations of its incredible Suprema system, its supersystem with pair of towers and dual-15-inch subwoofers. While the cost of the Suprema is an eye-popping $750,000, know that this is best of the best available, and all handcrafted. Inside the Maserati GranTurismo, you can choose between a standard 14-speaker setup pushing out 860 watts of power or upgrade to the 19-speaker option with 1195 crystal clear watts. Maserati GranTurismo and Sonus faber Kristin Shaw You might notice the Sonus faber brand is unique in that the second word is in all small letters, and that's deliberate. The phrase Sonus faber is Latin for 'artisan of sound' and the brand says it chooses to emphasize the sound part to keep it in sharp focus. Frontera says the fact that both Maserati and Sonus faber are Italian companies makes for a harmonious partnership. Each company's pride in its beloved home country is evident, and it makes sense for them to pair up. 'It's a very interesting and romantic story,' he says, 'We are just two hours from each other, and this kind of story in the automotive industry is not so common.' Just as an engineer considers acoustics in a concert hall, audio system engineers consider all the materials that will affect the sound quality. In a Maserati, for instance, the leather absorbs the sound, but the glass reflects. Getting it right requires a fair amount of math, physics, and acoustical engineering. Every detail is analyzed to maximize sound quality, Maserati says, down to the tiniest features. Sonus faber operates inside a very competitive world. Take a look at all of the companies that create the best sound systems around the world and you'll find Bang & Olufsen, Bowers and Wilkins, Burmester, and more. Every one of these companies reproduces sound beautifully to achieve the optimum results, so how does Sonus faber differentiate itself if all of these brands sounds amazing? Frontera says it has do to with Sonus faber's chosen path to excellence. 'We choose a natural sound,' he explains. 'Bowers and Wilkins is more precise, for example. It's a detailed sound, like a sharp knife; very precise.' That doesn't mean the sound inside a Maserati vehicle isn't crisp and precise, however. It's a matter of emotion and philosophy, and the company's artisans keep that in mind all the way through the final tuning. 'The spirit of the sound should evoke emotion without thinking too much of the technicalities," Frontera says. "Our aim is to give this this kind of emotion. This is a wonderful car for sure, and it also helps that the music sounds great." Whether you're listening to the dulcet tones of famous Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli or the heavier sounds of Nirvana or Shinedown, inside the Maserati GranTurismo it's all going to sound incredible. Maserati GranTurismo Maserati
Geeky Gadgets
6 days ago
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
Sony WH 1000XM6 vs. AirPods Max: The UNDISPUTED Champion Is...
When selecting premium headphones, the Sony WH1000XM6 and Apple AirPods Max stand out as top contenders. Both models promise exceptional performance, but how do they compare in critical areas such as sound quality, noise cancellation, comfort, battery life, connectivity, and overall value? By examining these features in detail, you can determine which option aligns best with your preferences and lifestyle. The video below from MacRumors gives us more details. Watch this video on YouTube. Sound Quality: Tailored for Different Preferences The Sony WH1000XM6 and Apple AirPods Max both deliver high-fidelity audio, but their sound profiles cater to distinct listening preferences. The WH1000XM6 offers a balanced sound signature, characterized by deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs, making it versatile across various music genres. Additionally, Sony's companion app includes an equalizer, allowing you to customize the audio experience to suit your tastes. On the other hand, the AirPods Max leans toward a neutral sound profile, emphasizing clarity and precision. This approach appeals to audiophiles who prioritize accuracy and detail in their listening experience. However, the AirPods Max lacks the customization options available with the WH1000XM6. For users who value flexibility and the ability to fine-tune their audio, the WH1000XM6 holds a distinct advantage. Active Noise Cancellation: Cutting Through the Noise Noise cancellation is a defining feature of premium headphones, and both models excel in this area. The AirPods Max employs Apple's computational audio technology, which adaptively blocks ambient noise to create an immersive listening experience in most environments. This technology is particularly effective in quieting mid-range and high-frequency sounds. In comparison, the WH1000XM6 uses Sony's advanced noise-canceling algorithms, which are especially adept at reducing low-frequency sounds such as airplane engines or city traffic. Furthermore, the WH1000XM6 includes an ambient sound mode, allowing you to stay aware of your surroundings when needed. While both headphones deliver impressive noise cancellation, the WH1000XM6 offers greater adaptability across a wider range of scenarios, making it a more versatile choice for diverse environments. Design and Comfort: Built for Long Listening Sessions Comfort and design are critical for extended use, and both headphones prioritize ergonomic features. The AirPods Max features a stainless steel frame paired with a breathable mesh canopy, giving it a premium and durable feel. However, its weight—384 grams—can become noticeable during prolonged listening sessions, potentially causing fatigue. The WH1000XM6, in contrast, weighs just 254 grams, making it significantly lighter and more comfortable for extended wear. Its plush ear cushions enhance comfort, while its foldable design improves portability, making it an excellent choice for travel or daily commutes. While the AirPods Max impresses with its luxurious build quality, the WH1000XM6 is better suited for users who prioritize lightweight comfort and practicality. Battery Life: Power That Lasts Battery life is a crucial factor for wireless headphones, and the WH1000XM6 outperforms the AirPods Max in this category. Sony's headphones offer up to 30 hours of playback with noise cancellation enabled, compared to the AirPods Max's 20 hours. This extended battery life makes the WH1000XM6 a more reliable option for long trips or busy days. Additionally, the WH1000XM6 supports quick charging, providing five hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge. It uses a USB-C port, which is more widely adopted and convenient than the AirPods Max's proprietary Lightning cable. For users who value long-lasting performance and fast charging capabilities, the WH1000XM6 is the clear winner. Connectivity: Flexibility vs. Ecosystem Integration Both headphones offer reliable Bluetooth connectivity, but their strengths differ based on user needs. The AirPods Max integrates seamlessly with Apple devices, thanks to its H1 chip. This enables features like spatial audio, automatic device switching, and hands-free Siri activation, making it an excellent choice for users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem. However, its functionality is more limited when paired with non-Apple devices, reducing its versatility. The WH1000XM6, equipped with Bluetooth 5.2, offers broader compatibility across platforms. It supports high-resolution audio codecs like LDAC and allows multi-device pairing, allowing users to switch between devices effortlessly. While the AirPods Max excels within the Apple ecosystem, the WH1000XM6 provides greater flexibility for users with diverse devices, making it a more versatile option for those who use multiple platforms. Price and Value: Balancing Cost and Performance Price is often a deciding factor, and the difference between these two models is significant. The AirPods Max is priced at $549, positioning itself as a luxury product. In contrast, the WH1000XM6 is more affordable at $399, yet it delivers comparable—or in some cases superior—performance in key areas such as sound quality, noise cancellation, and battery life. For users seeking premium features without the premium price tag, the WH1000XM6 offers better value for money. It combines high performance with a more accessible price point, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers who do not want to compromise on quality. Final Verdict: The Sony WH1000XM6 Stands Out Both the Sony WH1000XM6 and Apple AirPods Max deliver exceptional features, but the WH1000XM6 emerges as the more well-rounded option. Its customizable sound profile, advanced noise cancellation, lightweight design, extended battery life, and competitive pricing make it an ideal choice for most users. While the AirPods Max excels in its seamless integration with Apple devices and offers a luxurious build, it falls short in versatility and cost-effectiveness. For those seeking headphones that combine performance, comfort, and value, the Sony WH1000XM6 is the clear winner, offering a superior balance of features at a more accessible price point. Stay informed about the latest in Sony WH1000XM6 by exploring our other resources and articles. Source & Image Credit: MacRumors Filed Under: Apple, Gadgets News, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Yahoo
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Scientists just made guinea pigs listen to Adele for seven days… and the results are both surprising and worrying
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. If you're a music maker then you can't fail to have grasped the concept of compression and, more than likely, thanked your lucky stars that it was there to help. Whether it's evening out your iffy performance or making bad drums and thin bass sound insanely great, compression is a simple but magic trick of the volume level that can put any music in your face and number one in your affections. If it's too quiet a compressor makes it louder. Now everything is at the same level. But, just like amping up food with artificial flavourings or taking political opinion to extremes, it's possible to have too much of a 'good' thing. While the arguments both for and against compression are well known (remember the 'loudness war' that saw remastered classic albums coming back 'brickwalled' with all of their subtle dynamics disappeared?) it's now been medically proven that compression equals bad… While 'playing music loud is going to damage your ears' is common sense, surely the amount of compression employed on a track doesn't make a difference? Not so. Now, new research with guinea pigs has shown that compression may not be your best friend after all and that compressed music damages ears in ways that uncompressed, more dynamic music does not. The experiment's findings suggest that having silence between sounds – giving the brain a chance to process 'what just happened' and appreciate the surprising peaks to come – gives the listener's brain sufficient headroom to recover from their last surprise allowing them to listen and understand and enjoy music for longer. It's a known fact that listening for too long (and perhaps at two high a level) produces a fatigue that is the scourge of musicians and studio staff worldwide. In short, compressed audio is more tiring to listen to and – thanks to some new research – may just be officially bad for you too. And the guinea pigs in this new experiment?… Were actual guinea pigs… And what unpleasantries were they subjected to in the pursuit of science? Adele's 2015 single I Miss You. Obviously The guinea pigs were split into two groups. One group listened to the Adele favourite in unmolested form while the others were endlessly fed a compressed version, with both groups listening to the track at the same perceived volume level of 102 decibels. And it that sounds like a lot, it's because it is. It's actually just below Britain's Health and Safety Executive's recommended maximum average for live music. Needless to say, tests of the various guinea pig's cochlea's post Adele trauma revealed damage to their inner ear, leading to mild temporary impairment which would, in time, produce permanent damage. No surprises thus far. However the group listening to the compressed version had endured more lasting damage to the middle ear's stapedius muscle. This component of every ear (humans too) protects the inner ear from loud noises and, at just 1mm long, is actually the smallest skeletal muscle in the body. This, despite the music – uncompressed and a compressed version – being played at the exact same volume. In the tests, the hearing of those animals who had listened to the uncompressed Adele made a full recovery within a day, with their hearing and performance of the stapedius muscle returning to normal. The test was repeated for seven days with no discernible lasting effects. However, those who had encountered the compressed Adele did not get off so lightly, with their stapedius reflexes never fully recovering and exhibiting half of their strength at the end of the experiment a week later. Thus Paul Avan, an audiologist at the Pasteur Institute in Paris who wrote up his results in the journal Hearing Research, has concluded that the constant stimulus of compressed music overwhelms the nerve cells in auditory processing, affecting their ability to bounce back and recover. While there's still much to unpack – how much compression is 'bad', can a full recovery be made through an extended rest period, and so on – the results are nonetheless conclusive and surprising, suggesting that not only volume level but the relentless dynamics of what we're actually listening may have serious later repercussions on our hearing. You heard it here first.
Geeky Gadgets
19-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Is Sony Back on Top? The WH-1000XM6 Review
The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones represent a significant step forward in the realm of premium noise-canceling technology. Building on the strong foundation of the WH-1000XM5, this latest iteration refines its predecessor's features while introducing notable upgrades. Designed with audiophiles, frequent travelers, and professionals in mind, the WH-1000XM6 combines advanced technology with user-focused design. However, its premium price point may prompt some buyers to weigh its benefits carefully. The video below from Marques Brownlee gives us a detailed look at the new Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones. Watch this video on YouTube. Key Highlights Enhanced noise cancellation powered by 12 microphones and the advanced QN3 chip. powered by 12 microphones and the advanced QN3 chip. Improved sound quality with upgraded drivers and customizable EQ settings. with upgraded drivers and customizable EQ settings. Foldable design reintroduced for greater portability and convenience. reintroduced for greater portability and convenience. Multi-device connectivity for seamless switching between devices. for seamless switching between devices. Extended battery life of up to 30 hours with fast-charging capabilities. Design and Comfort: Built for Long Listening Sessions The WH-1000XM6 headphones are crafted with comfort and practicality in mind, making them ideal for extended use. The lightweight frame, combined with soft vegan leather earpads and a flexible headband, ensures a snug yet comfortable fit. Sony's decision to reintroduce the foldable design is a welcome change, allowing the headphones to collapse neatly into a compact, magnetically-closed travel case. This feature is particularly beneficial for frequent travelers who value portability. The earcups now rotate more freely, enhancing both adjustability and storage convenience. However, the lack of ventilation in the earcups may lead to slight discomfort during prolonged use, especially in warmer conditions. Despite this minor drawback, the WH-1000XM6 delivers a premium feel and thoughtful design enhancements that cater to a wide range of users. Sound Quality: A Richer, More Immersive Experience Sony has elevated its audio performance with the WH-1000XM6, setting a new standard for premium headphones. The upgraded drivers produce a balanced sound profile, characterized by punchy bass, detailed mids, and crisp highs. The enhanced sub-bass performance is particularly noteworthy, delivering a richer and more immersive listening experience compared to the WH-1000XM5. The updated 'Sound Connect' app provides customizable EQ settings, allowing users to tailor the audio to their preferences. Whether you're enjoying classical music, podcasts, or bass-heavy tracks, the WH-1000XM6 adapts seamlessly to your needs. This level of personalization reinforces Sony's reputation for delivering exceptional sound quality in the premium headphone market. Noise Cancellation and Transparency: Best-in-Class Performance Noise cancellation has long been a defining feature of Sony's WH-1000X series, and the WH-1000XM6 takes this capability to new heights. With an increase from 8 to 12 microphones and the integration of the advanced QN3 chip, these headphones excel at isolating external noise. Whether you're on a crowded flight or in a bustling café, the WH-1000XM6 ensures an uninterrupted listening experience. The transparency mode has also been refined, offering a more natural and clear ambient sound. This feature is particularly useful for staying aware of your surroundings without removing the headphones. Together, these advancements make the WH-1000XM6 a standout choice for users who prioritize both immersion and situational awareness. Features and App Integration: Tailored to Your Needs The WH-1000XM6 is equipped with a suite of features designed to enhance usability and personalization. The refreshed 'Sound Connect' app introduces environment-specific listening modes, such as café, living room, and cinema, allowing users to optimize their audio experience for different settings. Multi-device connectivity is another standout feature, allowing seamless switching between devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets without the need for manual pairing. However, the touchpad controls, while functional, can sometimes be inconsistent, which may frustrate users who prefer more tactile feedback. Despite this, the WH-1000XM6 offers a highly customizable and user-friendly experience. Battery Life: Reliable and Convenient Battery performance remains a strong suit for the WH-1000XM6. With up to 30 hours of playback on a single charge, these headphones are well-suited for long trips or extended work sessions. The fast-charging capability is another highlight, providing up to 5 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge. This feature minimizes downtime and ensures that the headphones are ready when you need them. How It Stacks Up Against Competitors In a competitive market, the WH-1000XM6 stands out as a top-tier option. Compared to alternatives like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra, Sonos, JBL, and Beats Studio, Sony's offering excels in noise cancellation, sound quality, and multi-device connectivity. While the AirPods Max offers a comparable experience, the WH-1000XM6 is more affordable and provides superior compatibility with non-Apple devices. This versatility makes it an attractive choice for a broader audience. Drawbacks to Consider Despite its many strengths, the WH-1000XM6 is not without its shortcomings. The $449 price tag may deter budget-conscious buyers. Additionally, the touchpad controls can be finicky, and the lack of ventilation in the earcups may cause discomfort during extended use. While these issues are relatively minor, they are worth considering for potential buyers. A Worthy Investment for Premium Audio The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones successfully reaffirm their position as a leader in the premium noise-canceling headphone market. With improvements in design, sound quality, noise cancellation, and app integration, they offer a well-rounded and high-performing package. While the higher price may be a barrier for some, the WH-1000XM6 delivers exceptional value for those seeking the best in comfort, functionality, and audio performance. For discerning listeners, these headphones set a new standard in the industry and are a compelling choice for anyone in search of premium audio. Source & Image Credit: Marques Brownlee Filed Under: Gadgets News, Reviews, Technology News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
