Tag: #creative

Creative launches wireless headphones with Multi-Stream Capabilities & Super X-Fi

Creative Technology today announced the release of the all-new Creative Zen Hybrid Pro wireless headphones and their accompanying bundles, the Creative Zen Hybrid ProClassic and Creative Zen Hybrid ProSXFI, all adorned with an alluringly sleek new finish. Equipped with nifty features such as Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Ambient Mode, a powerful 40 mm Neodymium driver, and an impressive battery life of up to 100 hours, these latest headphones are perfect for everyday adventures, from commuting to movie nights to gaming.

This pioneering launch also heralds a new era in wireless audio, as this latest range of Creative Zen Hybrid Pro headphones harness LE Audio to provide users with pristine sound quality, ultra-low latency streaming, and the versatility of multi-streaming for a truly elevated audio experience.

Complementing this release are the all-new Creative BT-L3 and Creative BT-L4 audio transmitters, which serve as gateways to unlocking the core features of LE Audio and Super X-Fi technology as well as paving the way for an expanding LE Audio ecosystem.

Creative Zen Hybrid Pro                        Creative Zen Hybrid ProClassic                               Creative Zen Hybrid ProSXFI

 

Creative Zen Hybrid Pro headphones usher in a new era of audio experiences for audiophiles, gamers, and anyone who appreciates pristine audio.

Unlocking the Power of LE Audio

LE Audio technology is changing the game in the audio industry, aiming to transform how users experience wireless audio. This technology offers enhanced next-generation wireless audio performance with lower bitrates, beyond the classic Bluetooth technology users have become accustomed to over the years. In short, LE Audio not only elevates audio performance but also extends battery life, ensuring a seamless and uninterrupted listening experience.

With LE Audio, the power to share audio experiences takes on a new dimension. With support for both unicast and broadcast modes, users have the flexibility to enjoy their chosen audio streams privately or share them across multiple devices, bringing a new level of convenience and versatility.

Lastly, the Ultra-Low Latency (ULL) mode ensures impeccably smooth audio playback, boasting latency as low as ~ 20 ms. This feature not only promises seamless synchronization but also redefines the audio experience for both movie enthusiasts and avid gamers.

Headphones Fit for Every Adventure

The Creative Zen Hybrid Pro wireless headphones and their associated bundles, the Creative Zen Hybrid ProClassic and Creative Zen Hybrid ProSXFI have all the hallmarks of the perfect go-to pair of headphones fit for every audio adventure, from daily commutes to immersive gaming sessions. Each iteration of these cutting-edge headphones caters to varying audio preferences and needs.

Notably, the standalone Creative Zen Hybrid Pro is LE Audio READY, which serves as a cornerstone to unlock the world of LE Audio. To tap into this feature, users can easily activate it when paired with the Creative BT-L3 and Creative BT-L4 audio transmitters, which are thoughtfully bundled with the Creative Zen Hybrid ProClassic and Creative Zen Hybrid ProSXFI, respectively.

Alongside this, the latest Creative Zen Hybrid Pro boasts an array of core features, including Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation and Ambient Mode, giving users the flexibility to fully immerse themselves in their audio or stay attuned to their surroundings with modes that seamlessly adapt to any environment. It also comes equipped with custom-tuned 40 mm, powerful yet light Neodymium drivers, which ensure every note is reproduced with power and precision, delivering a rich and captivating sound experience.

Users can also enjoy crystal-clear call quality with the integration of the advanced AI-powered Deep Neural Network (DNN) noise cancellation technology that allows for conversations to be heard loud and clear, even in bustling environments.

Designed for seamless on-the-go use, the Creative Zen Hybrid Pro also boasts an impressive battery life of up to 100 hours, perfect for extended trips. Switching between devices is also made simple with Bluetooth 5.3 and multipoint connectivity. Additionally, its sleek and lightweight build also offers comfort while users embark on their audio adventures, making it easy to bring their favourite tunes wherever they go.

Adding a touch of personal flair, the customizable RGB LED lights enable users to tailor the headphones to match their unique style. Users can also further fine-tune their audio experience through the Creative App’s customizable EQs and controls.

For users who are seeking an elevated audio experience, the bundled options open the doors to the world of LE audio and Super X-Fi. The Creative Zen Hybrid ProClassic offers an enhanced yet versatile audio solution that includes the Creative BT-L3 audio transmitter, which unlocks the power of LE Audio, as well as a detachable boom mic, creating an all-encompassing audio experience ideal for entertainment and seamless communication.

The Creative Zen Hybrid ProSXFI, on the other hand, is tailored for gamers and offers the best of both worlds, allowing users to experience both LE Audio and Super X-Fi magic with the Creative BT-L4 audio transmitter. The Super X-Fi UltraDSP chip fitted in the audio transmitter is a powerhouse that fuels the SXFI BATTLE Mode, which is specifically designed to give users a competitive edge in virtual battlegrounds. The bundle also includes a detachable boom mic for improved voice pickup and clarity for clearer in-game chat.

LE Audio Ecosystem

At the heart of this expanding LE Audio ecosystem are the Creative BT-L3 and Creative BT-L4 audio transmitters, designed to unlock the full potential of LE Audio and Super X-Fi technology while paving the way for an array of forthcoming products. These include soundbars and True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds, all of which will seamlessly integrate with the LE Audio ecosystem. The introduction of the Creative Zen Hybrid Pro headphones and audio transmitters lays the foundation for a future audio experience that is seamless and integrated across devices.

“The launch of the Creative Zen Hybrid Pro headphones and the LE Audio Ecosystem represents an unparalleled revolution in the world of wireless audio. We’re proud to offer users a gateway to the future of sound, redefining their audio experiences and paving the way for a new era of connectivity and entertainment,” said Song Siow Hui, CEO of Creative Technology.

Pricing and Availability

Step into the future of wireless audio and preorder now for exclusive access to the latest range of Creative Zen Hybrid Pro headphones available at Creative.com.

Creative Zen Hybrid Pro is priced at UK£89.9 and is available at Creative.com.

Creative Zen Hybrid ProClassic is priced at UK£119.99 and is available at Creative.com.

Creative Zen Hybrid ProSXFI  is priced at UK£134.99 and is available at Creative.com.

For more information, visit creative.com/ZenHybridPro

Tech Review – Creative Outlier Free+ and Outlier Free Pro+

Bone conduction headphones have surged in popularity over the last two years and we know that due to the numerous models we have tested and stay tuned for more by the way which are in the review process and for the most these are simple products to use and set up and again for the most there is no app to content with so they are a connect to your phone device and away you go, some however offer more and then you have Air conduction headphones.

Creative however is not new to the scene here nor is the brand and known for delivering excellent audio products be it speakers headphones or earbuds and this is their second time around now with these bone conducting headphones and there is an improvement on last years models and that being in the sound department.

I am speaking about the two products in one review because they are almost identical and the pro offering extra on board storage and a better IP rating other than that the sound for me was identical the controls are identical and the audio profiles are also identical so is the looks apart from the colour choice.

The build quality is great as before and these are super robust they could be flung about the place and still work they can be twisted and tortured and they still work so they are built to last.

Some folk find these neckband type headphones annoying and the questions I always get asked is does the band bounce up and down and how do they sound same two questions all the time oddly enough they never ask about battery life or any other factors.

The neckband sits nicely on your neck to begin with and stays there even in the gym once you have these sat on your ears correct there will be no issue now you might get the odd bounce on the neck if you push it but for the most they are grand and comfortable the only difference is they don’t do in your ears and that is a transition you can only decide if it is for you and it is not as bad as some might be lead to believe.

Controls are simple to use on these guys and both identical you cet three small raised buttons that are tactile and work well to do all the things you need to do so which is volume control skip and reverse tracks play and pause control calls and activate your voice assistant so you have all the controls required however there is no app here.. You have a mfb or better known as a multifunction button which you press 4 times yes 4 times to change the latency, now I say 4 times however there is some earbuds I recently tested that went up to 5 times to do something which is a bit of a joke to be honest.

How do they sound then, well they will and bone conducting headphones will never be as good as headphones or earbuds however the sound quality is getting better as the technology improves over time and for me it has from what I have tested to date and these have vastly improved over their previous models and you have to take into account these are aimed at the sporty person but anyone can wear them which I often do asides from testing.

These both have some bass in there pretty decent sound overall for the technology in play here and deliver a good audio experience whilst being able to hear what is going on around you which is important, not as good as in ear earbuds or headphones but overall you can’t complain when using this technology but it is getting better.

Creative Outlier Free+ is priced at £89.99 and is available at Creative.com. For more information, visit creative.com/OutlierFreePlus

Creative Outlier Free Pro+ is priced at £119.99 and is available at Creative.com. For more information, visit creative.com/OutlierFreeProPlus

Video Review

 

 

First Look – Creative Zen Air DOT

Creative recently announced another super affordable set of earbuds called the Zen Air DOT which come in at 30 quid at the time of publishing,now that is cheap however creative do not do cheap things and you expect cheap result from my testing over the years so it will be interesting to see how these fair out under my strict earbuds test regime.

The Creative Zen Air DOT boasts custom-tuned 13 mm Neodymium drivers that deliver powerful and detailed audio with deep bass, clear mids, and highs, ensuring that users will experience great audio with every beat. Together with Bluetooth® 5.3 technology and a battery life of up to 24 hours (7 hours on a single charge), users can enjoy uninterrupted audio throughout the day, making them the perfect companion for daily commutes, workouts, or travel. Moreover, the IPX4 rating offers water protection, making them suitable for intense workouts and outdoor activities.

We will have our full review soon so if you have any questions feel free to ask and we will gladly answer as always and stay tuned for the real hands on review later on.

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Unboxing Video

Creative Labs Partners With xMEMS to Unlock Full Audio Potential

Creative Technology is excited to announce a strategic partnership with xMEMS Labs, the pioneers in solid-state fidelity, bringing in a new era of audio excellence for users worldwide by incorporating xMEMS’ cutting-edge micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) solid-state speaker technology into Creative’s True Wireless Stereo (TWS) products.

xMEMS technology is a breakthrough in the audio industry, bringing unparalleled sound quality and efficiency to audio devices. Currently, traditional audio devices use conventional drivers to produce sound, which can sometimes result in distortion or loss of audio fidelity. Whereas, with xMEMS’ tiny yet powerful hardware, Creative’s TWS earbuds are set to deliver crystal-clear sound that reproduces every nuance of music and audio content with astounding accuracy. Users will get to enjoy a truly immersive and lifelike audio experience, whether they are listening to their favourite songs, watching movies, or engaging in conference calls.

The solid-state, all-silicon MEMS-based drivers also boast exceptional phase consistency (7x better than conventional drivers), offering superior spatial audio experiences with improved detail and separation. Furthermore, with the integration of xMEMS’s compact hardware, users can expect lighter, sleeker, and more ergonomic Creative TWS earbuds that provide better wearability for users on the move.

“We are excited to partner with Creative to revolutionize the true wireless audio experience,” said Joseph Jiang, CEO and Co-Founder at xMEMS Labs. “By integrating our advanced solid-state MEMS speakers into Creative’s TWS products, we are confident that users will enjoy an unprecedented level of audio quality and efficiency. Together, we aim to redefine the way people listen to music, communicate, and immerse themselves in audio content.”

“As an audio company committed to delivering superior sound experiences, Creative is excited to partner with xMEMS Labs to integrate their innovative MEMS technology into our TWS products,” said Song Siow Hui, CEO of Creative. “By doing so, we are confident that our TWS products will stand out in the market, delivering exceptional sound quality, comfort, and style to our users.”

The partnership between Creative and xMEMS Labs marks a significant milestone in the audio industry, raising the bar for True Wireless Stereo audio devices. The first series of Creative TWS products powered by xMEMS technology are expected to hit the market later this year, promising a game-changing experience for audio enthusiasts and casual users alike.

About xMEMS Labs

Founded in January 2018, xMEMS Labs is reinventing sound with the world’s first solid-state True MEMS speakers for TWS and other personal audio devices. xMEMS has over 100 granted patents worldwide for its technology. The innovative, monolithic transduction architecture implements both actuation and diaphragm in silicon producing the world’s fastest and most precise micro speakers, eliminating spring and suspension recovery of coil speakers. This results in the most accurate time domain music reproduction, unmatched sound clarity, and an elevated sense of space. For more information, visit https://xmems.com.

About Creative

Creative is a worldwide leader in digital entertainment products. Famous for its Sound Blaster® sound cards and for driving the multimedia revolution – which established a user base of 400 million – Creative drives digital entertainment with cutting-edge audio solutions that include premium wireless speakers, wireless headphones, powerful audiophile-grade digital amplifiers and next-generation home-theatre systems. Aiming at the new mobile networked generation by bridging the worlds of the computer, smartphones, and tablets, Creative continues to reinvent the Sound Blaster, with its ground-breaking Sound Blaster Roar series and USB-audio class of products such as the Sound Blaster X7.

In 2016, Creative unveiled the X-Fi Sonic Carrier: a brand-new concept in hi-res audio and video delivery for home entertainment. This technology powerhouse dubbed ‘the soundbar of the gods’ personifies the Audio of Tomorrow.

In 2018, Creative launched an all-new game-changing technology for headphones called Super X-Fi® Headphone Holography. This technology uses computational audio to recreate the listening experience of a high-end multi-speaker system in a professional studio, and delivers the same expansive experience – with the same original depth, detail, realism, and spaciousness – in headphones. Super X-Fi further uses Artificial Intelligence to compute a custom audio profile based on a person’s unique anthropometry. Super X-Fi has won multiple accolades worldwide, including an unprecedented 23 awards at CES 2019-2020.

Creative launches Zen Air DOT noise cancellation wireless earphones

Creative Technology today announced the release of the Creative Zen Air DOT, the latest true wireless earbuds designed to fit perfectly in the user’s palm while delivering a powerful audio punch that outshines both its compact form and wallet-friendly price point. Despite weighing only 33g, these earbuds offer more than meets the eye, with custom-tuned 13 mm Neodymium drivers, dual microphones with Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) technology, a long battery life of up to 24 hours, Bluetooth® 5.3 connectivity, and an IPX4 rating, making them the ideal audio companion fit for every user.

Creative Zen Air DOT is the perfect combination of portability and performance all in one small package

The Creative Zen Air DOT boasts custom-tuned 13 mm Neodymium drivers that deliver powerful and detailed audio with deep bass, clear mids, and highs, ensuring that users will experience great audio with every beat. Together with Bluetooth® 5.3 technology and a battery life of up to 24 hours (7 hours on a single charge), users can enjoy uninterrupted audio throughout the day, making them the perfect companion for daily commutes, workouts, or travel. Moreover, the IPX4 rating offers water protection, making them suitable for intense workouts and outdoor activities.

Fitted with dual microphones enhanced with Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) technology, these latest earbuds take call quality to the next level. The integrated microphones analyze and filter out unwanted background noise, providing crystal-clear voice input for better call quality, no matter the environment.

Lastly, the Creative Zen Air DOT also seamlessly integrates with popular third-party voice assistants such as Siri and Google Assistant, offering hands-free control and added convenience for a truly connected experience.

Pricing and Availability

Creative Zen Air DOT is priced at UK£29.99 and is available at Creative.com. For more information, visit creative.com/ZenAirDOT

Tech Review – Creative Sound Blaster Katana SE Soundbar

The Creative Sound Blaster Katana SE is the fourth in the series from the company making it slip into a different price bracket so what we have here is a product that suits ones needs when it comes to sound, size and features and the case here there is no subwoofer with this one meaning less space taken up but it is slightly larger than others in the range and with all that in mind this still has plenty of ports and connectivity options that caters for just about anyone and not forgetting the RGB lights built in.

The build quality is excellent here again and it is a familiar affair when it comes to the layout of the I/Os and buttons which makes it good for existing users per say to change up or down their current models, for someone new buying this at its price and target market there will be no issues at all with the product. Check out the unboxing below before you read on if you are a first timer and have decided to go for this one.  You can see the Stage 360 here and the Katana V2X here which was our last model to test and sit nicely in line with this one we have now. There is many other models to find on site if you want to have a look.

Unboxing and Walkthrough – Creative Sound Blaster Katana SE

 

 

How does it sound then, hard to call over video but we have a video review below and in short this is excellent and almost up there with the last model and for me this is ideal for anyone who has not ventured into the soundbar game which is now popular, I have an expensive TV  and one for gaming which was not cheap and you expect decent speakers but no, rubbish and downward firing which is still a feature when you buy a TV today and this is why soundbars are popular. Again a caveat here is where your IR port is on TV and soundbars usually block most of them but you can prop up your TV legs if required or fix the speaker the a wall with a bracket mine luckily enough allows me to use the remote but sometimes it is a pain.

The sound is great and that is all that matter I have tried and test with my Phone TV and gaming console and the result is the same optimal audio performance, no lag latency noted which I have notice this being an issue in the past with some soundbars again though this is with streaming and depending on your tv with some have the option to add delay and yes me having and expensive TV still has not got this feature but I am glad to say there is NO lag latency when streaming.

Best placed on your floor or on your TV stand and tuned up to the max sit back and enjoy the thumping bass and sound if your floors are wooden of course and it vibrates through the couch, not only this is coupled with Super X-Fi technology, 5.1 virtual surround capabilities, and versatile connectivity options, the Sound Blaster Katana SE is the ideal soundbar for gamers, movie lovers, and music enthusiasts who want an elevated audio experience without compromising on space or audio quality. If you have not yet tried this or a pair of compatible headphones you do not know what you are missing..

At the end of the day this soundbar delivers and all fronts, there is cheaper out there the price might put some off but from someone who has tested countless soundbars over the years this is worth the investment as it can be used in many scenarios and not just your TV, it is a one stop for sound quality and connectivity options and it is portable around the home or if needs be the office and in my case it does them all including my external office out my back which I often use to get away from the noise and just chill out.

Sound Blaster Katana SE is priced at UK£299.99, US$299.99, EU€329.99 and is available at Creative.com.For more information, visit www.creative.com/katanase

Video Review

Creative Outlier Free Pro+ and Outlier Free+ First Look

Last year Creative launched their first bone conduction headphones and they seemed popular from what I read and by our views on them both and these are what is on the menu these days alongside Air conduction headphones which there is a difference. Again we have two pairs for two target markets here and a new pair for the younger teens will be dropping next month which is an interesting move.

Today we take a first look at the latest on offer and show you what you get for your money and from initial testing again it seems like another two pairs of very robust headphones for the music lover and the fitness fan. Check out the video below for more and if you have any questions feel free to ask while we test them out.

For Creative Outlier Free+, users can choose between the classic yet stylish dark slate grey and matte black combination or make a striking statement with the lively dark slate grey and lime green fusion. The Creative Outlier Free Pro+, on the other hand, is available in midnight blue and matte black or midnight blue and fiery orange combinations. With these additional color options, users can now match their headphones to their personal style.

Designed for an active lifestyle, these bone conduction headphones are built to withstand the elements. The Creative Outlier Free+ has an IPX5 water-resistant rating, while the Creative Outlier Free Pro+ has an IPX8 waterproof rating and a built-in 8 GB memory, allowing users to experience absolute audio playback freedom while running, cycling, and even swimming. Together with seamless Bluetooth® 5.3 connectivity and an extended battery life of up to 10 hours, these headphones are the perfect companions, delivering impressive audio performance in any environment.

Pricing and Availability

Creative Outlier Free+ is priced at £89.99 and is available at Creative.com. For more information, visit creative.com/OutlierFreePlus

Creative Outlier Free Pro+ is priced at £119.99 and is available at Creative.com. For more information, visit creative.com/OutlierFreeProPlus

Unboxing and first look

Creative launches new open ear bone conduction earphones, Outlier Free Pro and Outlier Free+

Creative Technology today announces the release of the Creative Outlier Free Pro+ and Creative Outlier Free+, the latest bone conduction headphones to join the well-loved Outlier series.

Building on the foundation of its predecessors, these latest headphones bring an elevated open-ear listening experience with better precision and optimal sound conduction efficiency through the innovative adjustable transducers that adapt to the unique contours of each individual’s ears. With the ability to customize the fit, users can now enjoy unrivaled comfort and stability, allowing them to focus on their music or calls without any distractions. Along with an added burst of vibrant color options, these latest Plus versions add a playful and colorful twist to the user’s everyday life.

 

 

Experience a customized fit that hugs your ears just right, delivering quality audio that moves with you.

For Creative Outlier Free+, users can choose between the classic yet stylish dark slate grey and matte black combination or make a striking statement with the lively dark slate grey and lime green fusion. The Creative Outlier Free Pro+, on the other hand, is available in midnight blue and matte black or midnight blue and fiery orange combinations. With these additional color options, users can now match their headphones to their personal style.

Designed for an active lifestyle, these bone conduction headphones are built to withstand the elements. The Creative Outlier Free+ has an IPX5 water-resistant rating, while the Creative Outlier Free Pro+ has an IPX8 waterproof rating and a built-in 8 GB memory, allowing users to experience absolute audio playback freedom while running, cycling, and even swimming. Together with seamless Bluetooth® 5.3 connectivity and an extended battery life of up to 10 hours, these headphones are the perfect companions, delivering impressive audio performance in any environment.

And that’s not all—Creative will also be launching a mini version of the bone conduction headphones in August 2023 that will be suitable for pre-teens and teenagers, allowing them to enjoy their favorite tunes and experience quality audio with a comfortable fit.

Pricing and Availability

Creative Outlier Free+ is priced at £89.99 and is available at Creative.com. For more information, visit creative.com/OutlierFreePlus

Creative Outlier Free Pro+ is priced at £119.99 and is available at Creative.com. For more information, visit creative.com/OutlierFreeProPlus

First Look – The Creative Sound Blaster Katana SE soundbar

The Creative Sound Blaster Katana has dropped in for review and we are excited as always with their products and having tested many of their soundbars in the past they have lived up to the hype and have served me well over the years and we look forward to the latest on offer from the company to see what you get for your hard earned cash.

Again packed with features and some RGB love this is bound to sound good too which we will soon find out here on techbuzz and on YouTube so we take a quick first look at what this product looks like and show you all the features outline, of course a full hand on review will be in soon as always with some sound demos and so on and if you have any questions feel free to ask and we answer all questions and dont leave you with stock image review which lack context.

The Sound Blaster Katana SE offers a seamless yet powerful audio solution for users looking to take their audio game up a notch. Fitted with 0.75″ fabric dome tweeters that help to produce cleaner and more refined highs and upgraded dual up-firing 3″ mid-bass drivers that deliver full-sounding bass, this latest soundbar surpasses expectations to deliver an impressive audio experience that belies its size. Like its predecessor, the Sound Blaster Katana SE is also a certified Dolby Audio decoder, which allows users to easily recreate the cinematic audio experience within the comfort of their own homes.

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Unboxing video