Audioscenic Marks Impressive Growth with New Hires as they Widen their Ambitions in Consumer Audio Spatial Technology

Audioscenic, developers of the innovative 3D Audio Beamforming Technology Amphi, have announced a substantial team expansion including 15 new staff members across their Software Engineering, DSP, Computer Vision, and Audio R&D teams, along with a new CFO. The expansion comes as a result of rapid and successful growth. In the last six months Audioscenic has completed a successful Series A funding round as well as widespread industry accolades and awards for the first consumer implementation of its Amphi technology in the Razer Leviathan V2 Pro sound bar at the 2023 CES Show, Las Vegas. Audioscenic’s expanded teams see the brand poised to expand its technology to a global customer base.

“We’re very proud to grow the size, and skill, of our team to meet the rapidly expanding scope of Amphi within the consumer audio realm,” comments David Monteith, Audioscenic CEO. “The strategic focus of this expansion is on increasing our capabilities in key areas, so that we can continue to explore and implement our technology across the broadest possible range of consumer devices.”

The expansion of Audioscenic’s team signifies the company’s commitment to advancing spatial audio technology and strengthening its market position. With an increased talent pool, the company is well-equipped to improve existing products, develop innovative solutions, and explore new market opportunities, solidifying its position as a leading provider of immersive audio experiences. Additionally, the team’s diverse composition, spanning over four continents and representing 14 nationalities, fosters a global perspective and enriches the company’s ability to serve a diverse customer base worldwide.

The new team members include Balu Raj, Dimitris Zantalis, Robert Alcock and Kartik Prakash in Audioscenic’s Software Engineering Department, who will contribute to the ongoing development and improvement of the Amphi software solutions. George Howell and Georgii Zagoruiko have joined the DSP Department and will be working to expand the firm’s capabilities for implementing Amphi within embedded devices at lower cost. Jose Cappelletto will be part of the Computer Vision Engineering Team, which focuses on Amphi’s head-tracking technology. Yury Ushakov, Jago Reed-Jones, Jacob Hollebon and Neil Crawshaw in the Audio R&D Team will be focused on improving software performance and new product development which includes integration in laptops, car stereo systems, and other commonly available consumer listening devices. Finally, our new Chief Financial Officer will optimise the company’s financial operations and make informed decisions regarding financial planning and budgeting.

“We’ve assembled an incredible global team, hailing from countries around the world, to take us into the next phase of our journey,” said Dr. Marcos Simon, Audioscenic CTO and Co-Founder. “The diversity of background and thought gives us a rich tapestry of perspectives, ideas, and insights, which will allow us to continue to innovate and develop our approach to consumer spatial audio technology. As a united team our goal is the same,  to bring an accessible and affordable spatial audio experience to customers around the world, and elevate the experience of some of our most commonly used audio and viewing devices.”

As Audioscenic continues to evolve and expand its market presence, the company recognises the importance of strong business development efforts. To capitalise on commercial opportunities and foster strategic partnerships, Audioscenic has plans to onboard a dedicated business development professional. This individual will focus on driving commercial growth, identifying new markets, and establishing mutually beneficial relationships with key industry stakeholders.

For more information about Audioscenic, please click here.

Tech Review – Edifier WH820NB Plus headphones

The Edifier WH820NB plus are an affordable pair of headphones with a bit of punch thrown in when it comes to the audio experience, over the years we have being checking out the tech from the company they have been consistent when it comes to audio at all price points and in short there is no cheap take on it when it comes down to how your music is delivered to you via their products

The headset itself this time around comes in several colours which is a good start and might look and feel a bit cheap but still it is robust and it is a headset that can be worn for hours on end with no clamping effect and sweaty cups, I have tested these on my travels to Milan recently and with the humidity over there they did not cause any issues for me and the fact they are so light makes them super comfortable over hours of listening to music or even gaming if you wish as these have a gaming mode included.

The buttons on the headphones are on the small side but work well and all is kept to one side which makes navigation simple and after a few minutes use you will have no issues using them and they are tactile and work really well dishing out the commands you want with no mistakes so in that department all is good. On the buttons you can control your listening mode volume levels track selection and so on.

With the audio aspect again the company has delivered here with an excellent pair of cans with 40mm drivers and a great audio experince in gaming music and more so for those who want to take a punt you will not be sorry, during my usual test run they surpassed all expectations with nice volume decent ANC was noted, no distortion on maxed out volume and overall the highs lows and mids and no matter what genre was listened to they done a superior job and I would not expect anything less from the company anyway at this stage. Calls also done really well for me on my testing and from the few calls I tool people could here me clearly and same on my end and you have built in DNN which aides the quality.

Battery life is also excellent here on the headphones and at the higher end of the tier for longevity

The app as seen below is again available for the headphones and works really well and is simple to use you can also avail of their widget too if you wish, check out the video review for more where we take a look at the app and discuss the features and more and you get to see what value you get for your money here.

Features of the WH820NB Plus

  • Hi-Res Audio standard for a rich listening experience
  • Active noise cancellation technology isolates unwanted noise
  • Ambient sound mode allows you to hear environmental sounds such as traffic or flight announcements
  • Built-in microphone with DNN (deep neural network) noise cancellation for clear phone calls
  • Large driver with titanium diaphragm delivers crystal-clear sound
  • Low latency for game mode gives players an immersive gaming experience
  • Up to 49 hours continuous playback
  • Lightweight headset assures comfortable fit

BUY 

Video Review

Missed out on Glastonbury this year? Get your summer music fix with JBL!

Gutted to be missing out on this year’s Glasto? Bring the festival vibes to your home this summer with JBL’s latest Bluetooth speakers and soundbars. Whether you’re streaming your favourite artists’ performances or choosing your own line-up and setlists, get into the full festival spirit with powerful JBL Original Pro sound.

Recreating the festival scene in your garden? Tune into your JBL Charge 5 Wi-Fi or JBL Boombox 3 Wi-Fi for even bigger sound with seamless connectivity. Off to the park instead? Attach your JBL Clip 4 Eco to your backpack for your own personal performance from your favourite acts. Catching up on the Glasto sets you missed? Immerse yourself into the performance with surround-sound from the JBL Bar 1000.

JBL Charge 5 Wi-Fi, JBL Boombox 3 Wi-Fi and JBL Clip 4 Eco are all waterproof, dustproof and allow for hours of playtime, so you can take them anywhere without stress. If you fancy staying home instead, immerse yourself in true surround sound with the JBL Bar 1000’s detachable speakers. Wherever this summer takes you, JBL has you covered.

JBL Boombox 3 Wi-Fi

£549.99 / uk.jbl.com

The JBL Boombox 3 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth speaker delivers massive JBL Original Pro Sound with the deepest bass from a portable speaker. Stream your favourite festival acts in high-definition anywhere with the JBL Boombox 3, including 3D Dolby Atmos over Wi-Fi. Taking a call or scrolling your feed? Go ahead—it won’t interrupt your music. Switch easily to Bluetooth and keep enjoying seamless audio experiences whether you’re listening to your favourite artists indoors or outside. With a battery packing 24 hours of playtime and a waterproof and dustproof design, the JBL Boombox 3 Wi-Fi won’t let you down, wherever you take it. Stream music through AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music, Chromecast built-in™ and Spotify Connect. Enjoy all of your favourite audio content, Internet radio, and podcasts in high definition. And wherever you go, the eco-friendly materials—incorporating recycled fabric and plastic—will help to make the world a little greener.

 JBL Charge 5 Wi-Fi

£229.99 / uk.jbl.com

Go anywhere, hear anything. The bold JBL Original Pro Sound and deep bass of the JBL Charge 5 Wi-Fi keeps you moving to your own personal beat, setting the festival scene anywhere you go. Stream music anywhere over Wi-Fi, while still using your phone. Taking a call or scrolling your feed? Go ahead—it won’t interrupt your music. Switch easily to Bluetooth and keep enjoying seamless audio experiences whether you’re indoors or outside. The waterproof, dustproof portable speaker is powered by 20 hours of battery life and comes with a handy powerbank to keep your devices charged so you can stay connected with your fellow festival-goers. Stream music through AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music, Chromecast built-in™ and Spotify Connect. And the eco-friendly design—incorporating recycled fabric and plastic—helps to make any adventure a little greener.

JBL Clip 4 Eco

£59.99 / uk.jbl.com

New innovative eco-friendly design, same rich JBL Pro Sound performance. The compact JBL Clip 4 Eco packs 10 hours of playtime and big bass performance into a compact and convenient speaker. Hook the JBL Clip 4 Eco onto your bag so you can beat the crowds without worrying about losing it. The JBL Clip 4 Eco is available in Forest Green, Ocean Blue and Cloud White.

JBL Bar 1000

£849.99 / uk.jbl.com

Experience Glastonbury from the comfort of your own home with sound that puts you right in the middle of the action, thanks to 880W of total output power and thunderous bass from the 10″ subwoofer. The JBL Bar 1000 has MultiBeam™ and four up-firing drivers – two in the bar and two in the detachable battery-powered surround speakers – to envelop you in a sphere of Dolby Atmos® and DTS:X 3D surround sound with a wide, spacious soundstage with no need to draw extra cables. You’ll never miss a lyric with our PureVoice technology, which makes sure the dialogue is clear even when other sounds are at their loudest. When you’re ready to switch it up, stream your favourite playlist from AirPlay, Alexa MRM, and Chromecast built-in™ and it will feel like the headline acts are in your living room.

Introducing HUGO x Urbanista: Iconic Fashion Label Joins Forces with the Swedish Lifestyle Audio Brand to Launch the Must-Have Audio Fashion Accessory of the Season

Iconic German fashion brand, HUGO, and Swedish lifestyle audio brand, Urbanista, are proud to announce the launch of HUGO x Urbanista Los Angeles headphones: the must-have audio fashion accessory of the season. HUGO x Urbanista Los Angeles is an exclusive, limited edition HUGO-style version of the innovative Urbanista Los Angeles solar-powered headphones, using ground-breaking Powerfoyle™ solar cell technology.

HUGO is for those who prefer to lead, not to follow. Geared towards style individualists who always go their own way, the HUGO brand combines a mix of modern tailoring and strong casual influences, delivering unconventional looks for trendsetters, movers and shakers. Urbanista was born in 2010 in Stockholm, Sweden, out of love for cities and urban life, and is renowned for producing products rooted in Scandinavian design tradition and inspired by music, arts, fashion, and urban culture.

The HUGO x Urbanista collaboration combines HUGO’s streetwear-inspired flair with Urbanista’s understated Scandinavian design aesthetic, coming together in an exclusive, limited edition pair of headphones. These audio accessories are truly a one-of-a-kind style statement, with their unique two-tone colourway taking inspiration from HUGO’s iconic collections.

Urbanista Los Angeles was first launched in August 2021, as the world’s first self-charging wireless headphones, powered by Powerfoyle™ solar cell material. Using advanced green technology, Los Angeles converts all light, outdoor and indoor, into energy to deliver virtually infinite playtime. Since 2021, the Urbanista Los Angeles headphones have been awarded with numerous design awards, including the renowned Red Dot Best of the Best 2022 Award and iF Design Award 2022, among many others.

The HUGO x Urbanista limited edition headphones will be compatible with the Urbanista mobile companion app. The mobile app allows you to customise features and personalise the way you use and experience your audio. The app has a live-charging view for following the headphones’ battery gain and drain status. You can also switch between different sound modes with ease, create personal settings to your headphones’ controls, and six unique EQ settings.

Priced at 209 GBP/249 USD/239 EUR, the HUGO x Urbanista Los Angeles will be available from 14th June 2023 at selected retailers worldwide, and online at www.urbanista.com/hugo and www.hugo.com

Tuomas Lonka, Brand and Marketing Director, Urbanista, comments: “The HUGO x Urbanista collaboration is a unique pair of headphones that’s truly designed to stand out. We are proud and honoured to partner with HUGO to bring the exclusive HUGO x Urbanista limited edition headphones to our fans and customers, letting them express their personal style with a true audio fashion accessory.”

HUGO x Urbanista Los Angeles Key Features:

  • Virtually infinite playtime
  • Always charging when exposed to light
  • 80 h battery reserve
  • Hybrid active noise cancelling
  • Ambient sound
  • On-ear detection
  • USB Type-C charging
  • Bluetooth 5.0
  • Siri and Google Voice Assistant
  • App support
  • Compatible with iOS & Android

First Look – EDIFIER W820NB Plus ANC headphones

Edifier have just launched some new cans and this comes quick on the heels of the recent headphones from the company we review called the WH950NB which you can see the review of here and these headphones are excellent as expected from the brand who is consistent on delivering great audio products.

The W820NB Plus are very affordable with some great specs on board such as LDAC and Hi-Res audio which we of course will put to the test here at techbuzz and will of course have a full hands on review, Today we unbox and tour the W820NB and put them up side by side with the WH950NB plus so if you have any questions feel free to fire over and questions you might have.

Features of the WH820NB plus include

  • Hi-Res Audio standard for a rich listening experience
  • Active noise cancellation technology isolates unwanted noise
  • Ambient sound mode allows you to hear environmental sounds such as traffic or flight announcements
  • Built-in microphone with DNN (deep neural network) noise cancellation for clear phone calls
  • Large driver with titanium diaphragm delivers crystal-clear sound
  • Low latency for game mode gives players an immersive gaming experience
  • Up to 49 hours continuous playback
  • Lightweight headset assures comfortable fit

BUY 

Unboxing video

Edifier Announces W820NB Plus Headphones

Edifier, the forward-thinking audio-technology brand, have announced the release of the W820NB Plus which continues the brand’s outstanding record for affordable but premium quality audio products incorporating the latest technologies.  The W820NB Plus is an update to the top selling W820NB headphones. This latest version features support for LDAC coding, certification of Hi-Res Audio Wireless, 40mm dynamic driver with Titanium coated composite diaphragm for crystal clear listening and up to 49 hours of playtime.

The W820NB Plus is certified by Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Wireless Audio, providing a high-frequency bandwidth of up to 40kHz. Whether you prefer wired or wireless connectivity, you can enjoy music with enhanced details, a wider sound field, and richer emotions.

These latest headphones utilize LDAC high-definition codecs technology that allows for a transmission bandwidth of up to 990kbps, similar to a highway in wireless protocol. This ensures that high-bit-rate audio files are transmitted with great protection, retaining about three times the amount of music detail and delivering nearly lossless, natural and full sound.

The W820NB Plus headphones feature Hybrid ANC technology that can effectively cancel up to 43dB of background noise, resulting in an immersive music listening experience. Moreover, these headphones use advanced deep neural network call noise reduction technology, ensuring clear voice calls by accurately capturing the human voice and filtering out unwanted sounds. Business or personal calls can be made and taken with the confidence that call quality is guaranteed.

Equipped with 40mm dynamic driver with Titanium coated composite diaphragm, the W820NB Plus offers an exceptional transient response that enhances the clarity of high-frequency sounds. This results in rich, dynamic bass and clear, well-defined mids and highs, which create an immersive music experience background noise. 

With a high capacity battery and an energy saving Bluetooth chip, the W820NB Plus provides up to 49 hours of non-stop playtime, making it ideal for travel. Even if the battery runs low, charging for just 10 minutes gives up to 7 hours of music playback ensuring that you can listen to your favourite playlist anytime, anywhere without missing a beat! 

Turn on the ambient sound mode and enjoy your music whilst being aware of your surroundings without worrying about missing that important train, plane, bus announcement and more. With an ultra-low game mode of just 0.08 seconds, you will experience perfectly synchronized sound.  Every sound and position is accurately heard, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your game and play your role effortlessly. 

The W820NB Plus is also compatible with The Edifier Connect App which offers a wide range of musical options and allows you to tailor your listening experience. You can customize settings such as power display, EQ selection, shutdown timer, prompt volume and soothing sounds to your own preference.

Available in Grey, Green, Blue, Ivory or traditional Black, there is a colour for everyone! The super soft headband and ear cushions are comfortable to wear for long periods of time. The retractable headphone arm will give you a secure fit with less pressure and help prevent sound leakage.

Main Features:

  • Immersive sound with both Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified
  • Active Noise Cancellation with ambient mode
  • DNN noise cancellation technology for crystal clear call quality
  • Up to 49 hours of continuous playback with ANC off
  • 0.08s of low latency for the seamless gaming experience
  • Super soft and comfortable ear cushion for all day entertainment
  • Can be use as wired headphones via a USB cable connection

 

Price & Availability:

The W820NB Plus is available at £79.99 from: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09YV6FRVT

 

 

 

 

First Look – Soundcore Liberty 4, earbuds with heart rate tracking and spatial audio

The Liberty Soundcore range have been a favourite with me over the years and the Liberty 3 pro are one of the best earbuds of 2021 and even still highly regarded today for me and today we have the all new Liberty 4 in for review. These earbuds have a lot of claims made here which I really look forward to finding out and no doubt they will be interesting to see and they also come packed with great specs too and not only this these have heart rate tracking built in and 360 spatial audio which sounds really cool.

We will be testing these out over the coming weeks and will have a full review soon as we always do with a hands on look and also a look at their app which is also neat, if you have any questions feel free to comment and we answer all questions and give you a real hands on look rather than stock images in our final review of all our products.

Features

  • Crisp, clear sound via ACAA™️ 3.0 Coaxial Acoustic System
  • 360° immersive spatial audio with music and movie modes
  • CloudComfort™️ ear tips for long-lasting comfort
  • All-new heart rate sensor with soundcore app
  • HearID personalized active noise cancelling
  • 9/28 hours of playtime for all-day listening

BUY

Unboxing

How To Turn A Mediocre Band Into An Awesome One?

Are you a musician or part of a band trying to make it big, but feel like you’re stuck in mediocrity? Don’t worry – achieving greatness is possible! The key lies in having an effective workflow and understanding the fundamentals of success.

In this blog post, we’ll cover the steps involved with transforming your mediocre band into an awesome one. From finding reliable equipment that provides quality sound to mastering marketing techniques and implementing different networking strategies – we got it all covered!

So if you’re looking for ways to create music that sets you apart from the competition – read on! Let’s dive right into how to turn a mediocre band into an awesome one through effective management.

Invest in better instruments and sound equipment

Investing in high-quality instruments and sound equipment can have a tremendous impact on the overall sound quality of your music. Whether you’re a professional recording artist or a beginner musician, making this investment will be worth it in the long run. Upgrading your hardware will allow you to produce exceptional sound quality that will stand out and impress your audience.

Quality sound equipment can capture all of the nuances and subtleties of your performance that might otherwise be lost with inferior gear. Not only will investing in better instruments and sound equipment elevate your sound, but it will also inspire you to reach new heights as a musician. For example, with a vocal equalizer, you can fine-tune the timbre of your voice to give it a unique and professional sound. On the other hand, higher-quality speakers will help you get the most out of your mixes.

Make sure to do your research when it comes to finding the right gear for you. Consider factors like budget and portability in order to make an informed decision that best suits your needs. Additionally, be sure to read reviews from other musicians to gain a better perspective on the product before making a purchase.

Take time to practice and rehearse regularly

In order to master any skill, practice, and dedication are essential. Whether it’s learning a new instrument or perfecting a dance routine, taking time to practice and rehearse regularly is crucial. It’s not just about putting in the hours, but also about making each practice session count.

By setting clear goals and focusing on areas that need improvement, you can ensure that every practice session is productive and effective. Regular practice also helps to build muscle memory, allowing you to perform tasks more easily and with greater confidence.

So if you want to excel in your chosen field, make sure to prioritize time for practice and rehearsal. After all, there’s no substitute for hard work and devotion.

Listen to other bands for inspiration

As a musician, it can be easy to get stuck in a creative rut. That’s why it’s so important to constantly seek out new sources of inspiration. Listening to other bands and genres can open up a whole world of possibilities.

You might hear a new chord progression that you never thought of before or a singer with a unique vocal style that inspires you to try something different. It can also be helpful to analyse the structures of your favourite songs to see what makes them so memorable.

So the next time you’re feeling stuck, don’t be afraid to branch out and explore new musical horizons. Who knows what kind of magic you might create?

Explore different genres of music

Music is the language that connects people across the world. It is an expression of emotions and ideas that varies with different genres. As a band, exploring different genres of music can help you find your own unique style. Consider listening to a range of music from classical to hip-hop, rock to jazz, and even folk to electronic.

By exposing yourself to different types of music, you can find inspiration and ideas to incorporate into your own music. As you experiment with different sounds and styles, you’ll start to notice what works best for your band and what sets you apart from others.

Knowing your unique style is essential as it can help you stand out from the saturated music industry and build a loyal fan base. So keep exploring, stay open-minded, and create music that reflects your own identity.

Experiment with new ways of songwriting and playing songs

Artists are constantly searching for ways to push the boundaries of creativity and take their craft to new heights. Experimenting with new ways of songwriting and playing songs can help achieve that goal. Whether it’s exploring different genres, incorporating unconventional instruments, or approaching lyrics from a fresh perspective, the possibilities are endless.

Embracing a spirit of curiosity and exploration can lead to unexpected breakthroughs and pave the way for truly unique and innovative work. So why not step outside of your comfort zone and see where your experimentation takes you? Who knows what new ideas and sounds you might discover?

Focus on making the live experience great

As technology continues to evolve, it’s important to remember the value of a live performance. Capturing the hearts and minds of an audience can be achieved in many ways, but two key elements to focus on are stage presence and lighting design. From the moment the lights go down, a great lighting design can create an atmosphere that’s both engaging and memorable.

Equally important is the performer’s stage presence. Whether it’s through high-energy dance moves, witty banter, or simply a powerful vocal performance, a performer who can command the stage will leave a lasting impression on their audience. So, if you’re looking to make your next live show truly unforgettable, make sure you’re paying attention to stage presence and lighting design.

In conclusion, turning a mediocre band into an awesome one requires hard work and lots of dedication. It takes time to master the craft of being a successful musician.

With the right tools, practice, and discipline, any band can make it to the top! Invest in better instruments and sound equipment, take time to rehearse regularly, listen to other bands for inspiration, explore different genres of music to find your band’s own style, experiment with new ways of songwriting and playing songs, and focus on making the live experience great by developing stage presence and lighting design.

All these elements come together to create great music experiences that will catch the attention of listeners all over the world. So get out there; get inspired; practice today—you can be an awesome band tomorrow!

Boom Gemini – Expandable Wireless Audio Is A Sound Idea From Boom Collaboration

Fast-growing video conferencing manufacturer, Boom Collaboration, has developed a wireless and expandable audio solution for smarter and more flexible meeting experiences.

The portable Boom GEMINI is a dual unit system, where each device features four omnidirectional microphones each with an impressive reach of up to eight metres.

Dynamic noise reduction and automatic echo cancellation are combined with wideband audio for supreme plug-and-play performance. It provides the ability to double the audio and microphone capacity for medium to large meeting rooms, as well as more adaptable spaces.

Boom Collaboration was created in 2020 by founders Fredrik Hörnkvist and Holli Hulett, in a bid to disrupt the sector and stand out from the crowd – creating high performance, high value advanced products.

The ambitious Texas-based business has quickly developed an extensive conferencing portfolio and operates in 20 countries, with plans for major expansion to 30 more this year including the UK and central Europe.

Flexible spaces

Hulett explained: “Our latest innovation signals the end of messy wires ruining office aesthetics. The Boom GEMINI is a perfect solution and represents the future of audio devices for virtual meetings.

The main stylish unit benefits from five easy control buttons and can be discreetly connected via daisy chain to its twin’ for expandable audio which effectively doubles the range. It’s designed for medium to large rooms, flexible spaces or even meetings on the go.

The Boom GEMINI boasts 10 hours talk time plus 90 days in standby. It charges over USB and can also connect and call over USB as an alternative to the battery. Bluetooth 5.0 comes with a BT dongle for easy pairing.

She concluded: “Enjoy professional, wireless audio in conference rooms and meeting spaces on any meeting platform. The Boom GEMINI twin speakerphones make meetings better, simply. Wireless connectivity with Bluetooth ensures attractive cable-free audio in an ideal centralised location without the expense of running cables under flooring.

When paired with our MAGNA or MIDI PTZ cameras it creates a very powerful complete conferencing system which is both flexible and high performance.