Tag: #EARBUDS

Mixx launches the upgraded StreamBuds Sports Charge 2 Wireless Earbuds to celebrate Global Running Day

Mixx, known for its premium, yet affordable, audio solutions, is pleased to announce the launch of the upgraded StreamBuds Sports Charge 2 wireless earbuds. With a 7-hour play time and a handheld charge case for an additional 25 hours, a choice of 3 EQ sound modes, touch sensor control and many more premium features, it is the perfect companion for an active lifestyle. Added features in this new model include Apple and Google compatibility, hands-free calling and USB Type C charging and the Sports Charge 2 earbuds have also had a complete physical makeover to make them more aesthetically pleasing and compact for increased portability. The StreamBuds Sports Charge 2 are available from MIXX in a choice of black, blue or burgundy all for an incredibly affordable £40. Check out our Mixx Streambuds Ultra and Solo review.
Preset EQ sounds and ease of control:
The touch buttons on the earbuds make controlling music an absolute breeze and users can play and pause, adjust the volume, answer or decline calls on the go and activate Google Assistant or Siri with a single touch. No need to pause the workout to look for a phone now! With the EQ presets, users can also choose between music, bass boost or voice dependent upon preference and the listening environment.
Quick charging:
The Sports Charge 2 earbuds offer 7 hours of playtime on a single charge with the handheld charge case adding another 25 hours of charge totalling an impressive 32 hours. In the unlikely event, a wearer runs out of juice, the quick charge feature gives 2 hours of additional playtime in only 15 minutes, so the music never needs to stop during a long workout or even a marathon! The digital display on the charging case shows the battery status of each individual earbud and the case itself so users can see clearly at a glance when a recharge is needed. Built in Qi Wireless charging is also available with the Sports Charge 2 for added ease.
Over ear hooks:
 
The over-ear hooks on the StreamBuds Sports Charge 2 are flexible loops that wrap around the ear to provide a secure and comfortable fit during physical activities. This offers stability and prevents the earbuds from falling out during hardcore workouts, making them an ideal choice for working out at the gym, for the daily run or a long cycle ride. For added comfort the earbuds come with 3 silicone ear cushions (small, medium and large) to ensure users get the best possible fit.
Eco friendly packaging:
 
MIXX makes a huge effort to keep packaging eco-friendly. Made with paper from sustainable sources, it is FSC certified. Any plastic used on the box is made from 30% recycled plastic and the whole package is 100% recyclable.
The MIXX StreamBuds Sports Charge 2 wireless earbuds are the ultimate partner for an active lifestyle and at only £50 offer true value for money too.
Main Features:
  • 7 hours play time on a single charge
  • *32 hours in total if you include the charge case
  • Touch sensor controls to play, pause, skip tracks and talk hands free
  • 3 EQ sound mode presets to choose from, Music, Bass or Boost
  • Handheld charge case
  • In-ear fit
  • Silicone ear cushions (small, medium, large)
  • Digital display screen
  • Siri and Google compatible
  • Over ear hooks for a secure fit

xMEMS Labs Debuts Cutting-Edge Reference Designs for True Wireless Stereo Earbuds and In-Ear-Monitors

Accelerating the adoption of solid-state micro speakers in consumer audio products, MEMS audio and semiconductor pioneer xMEMS Labs today announced the availability of two innovative reference designs for purchase at the xMEMS web store. 

The first unit, known as Harding, serves as xMEMS’ reference design for 2-way True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds, while the other is for audiophile-level full-range in-ear-monitors (IEMs). Both are available for a limited time and in extremely limited quantities, with the goal of providing interested audio brands and manufacturers with accelerated time-to-market leveraging xMEMS’ patented designs. 

According to xMEMS VP of Marketing and Business Development Mike Housholder, by making these reference designs available for purchase, the company is giving brands the best possible starting point so they and their customers can immediately begin reaping the benefits of the world’s first all-silicon, monolithic MEMS micro speakers. 

“As we continue to build momentum and awareness around our MEMS-based technologies that deliver a better sounding speaker with greater production efficiency and uniformity, we’re doing everything we can to support every customer who understands the value of making MEMS speakers part of their future product story,” Housholder said. “That’s why we’re making available for purchase a limited number of our TWS earbud and IEM designs to any forward-looking brand or manufacturer seeking a roadmap for the fastest possible adoption of xMEMS technology.” 

In addition to the design itself, those who make a purchase will be able to request the complete xMEMS design files for each solution, including their acoustic, mechanical and electrical components. 

The Harding 2-way TWS earbud design delivers superior high-frequency response and clarity featuring Cowell, the world’s smallest solid-state micro speaker. Cowell serves as the tweeter for highly realistic mids and highs and is paired with a custom-designed 9-mm dynamic driver woofer that delivers thumping bass. This ANC-ready (Active Noise Canceling) design embeds a Qualcomm Bluetooth Audio SoC and three microphones per earbud for noise canceling.

All told, Harding is a turn-key ODM design that’s fully integrated with all the needed components and expertly tuned acoustics to enable a seamless transition from legacy coil speakers to all-silicon micro speakers in TWS earbuds. 

Montara Plus, the world’s highest output MEMS micro speaker, is the ideal full-bandwidth transducer for an IEM reference design that delivers sound pressure levels up to 120 dB @ 200 Hz. This USB-C IEM design embeds a hi-res audio DAC from Synaptics and a voice microphone for phone call and web support.

Furthermore, Montara Plus’ lightning-fast transient response and wide bandwidth (20Hz to >40kHz) achieve the highest fidelity and clarity in a simplified, single speaker IEM, creating a path to smaller, lighter, simpler IEM designs without the phase alignment and design complexities of multi-driver IEM implementations.

“We’re seeing demand for xMEMS speakers grow exponentially as brands all over the globe try to stand out in the market and streamline their production efforts. By selling these reference designs, we’re doing our part to ensure the switch to MEMS speakers is as smooth and efficient as possible so more brands, manufacturers and their customers can soon benefit from xMEMS’ industry-changing innovations,” Housholder concluded.

Tech Review – Sony WF-C700N earbuds

Sony, a renowned Japanese electronics giant, has maintained its stronghold in the earphones and headphones market, with its division reporting annual sales revenue exceeding $1 billion. The Sony WF-C700N earbuds are a budget-friendly option that offers key features expected from a premium brand, while also considering sustainability.

Design and Comfort

The earbuds weigh in at a surprisingly light 4.6 g each, thanks to their plastic-type material construction. The case also features the same material, ensuring a lightweight and portable package. The WF-C700N earbuds come in a variety of colours, including Sage Green, White, Black, and Lavender, allowing users to choose a style that suits their preferences.

Features

 

Features

  •         Waterproof IPX4 rating, protecting against splashes of water, making them ideal for gym use but not suitable for underwater activities
  •         Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity for stable and reliable wireless performance
  •         USB-C charging for convenience and compatibility with modern devices
  •         Support for Sony 360 Reality Audio and AAC codecs for immersive and high-quality audio
  •         Frequency range of 20Hz – 20kHz for a wide and detailed soundstage

Headset operation features 

Battery:

Sony Headphones Connect App

The Sony Headphones Connect app, with over 10 million downloads and 229,000 reviews, boasts a 4.1 score on the Google Play Store. This app allows users to customise their listening experience by offering a variety of presets to match the genre of music they’re listening to, as well as the option to create their own custom EQ settings. The 360 Spatial Sound Personalizer feature also captures and analyses the user’s ear shape, creating a personalised spatial sound field when paired with BRAVIA XR™ TVs.

 

 Warranty and Drawbacks

The 1-year warranty is a disappointment, as I prefer to see longer coverage periods. Additionally, the build quality is noted to be plasticky, which may not appeal to those seeking a premium feel. The  Sony website has lots of information for support but is avoided given the actual warranty details which indicate retailers/regions may offer unique warranties depending on the promotions.

Performance

The WF-C700N earbuds deliver a lively and engaging sound, with good volume and stability. They provide clear vocals, detailed instruments, and a balanced sound profile that prioritises clarity. While the bass may not be as powerful as in more expensive options, it still offers richness and weight.

Overall

The Sony WF-C700N earbuds are a budget-friendly option with an abundance of features These earbuds come with 5mm drivers, active noise cancellation, and a battery life of 7.5 hours with ANC on and 15 hours total with the case. They weigh 4.6g per earbud and have Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, USB-C, and support for Sony 360 Reality Audio and AAC. The frequency range is 20Hz – 20kHz, and they have an IPX4 waterproof rating. The Sony Headphones Connect companion app allows for customisation, including ambient sound control and wind-reduction mics. The multimode option allowing connection to 2 phones Android & iPhone is a bonus which is a must for my requirements while carrying 2 phones on most occasions. The weight of the earphones stands out lighter than expected without compromising on the key features. The standardised USB C cable included is great to see from a premium brand rather than a proprietary cable with a solid app for customisations.

The Sony WF-C700N earbuds are a solid choice for those seeking a budget-friendly noise-cancelling option with good sound quality and a range of features. With their lightweight design, customizable sound profile, and support for advanced audio technologies, these earbuds offer excellent value for money. While the warranty and build quality may not be on par with more expensive models, the WF-C700N earbuds still deliver a satisfying listening experience that is hard to beat in their price range.

https://www.harveynorman.ie/tvs-headphones/headphones/all-headphones/noise-cancelling-headphones/sony-wf-c700n-in-ear-wireless-noise-cancelling-headphones-black.html

Video Review

JBL Live Beam 3 First look. Control your music from your earbuds case.

JBL had a Dubin launch event recently and we went along to check out the latest on offer from the brand and there is some really cool tech on offer if you are into your audio and after several demos there is plenty here to keep those ears happy let me tell you.

We have several reviews coming up an if you want to see the coolest earbuds case on the market it has to be this one on the Live beam 3 which we are looking at today. if you have any questions do drop them in the comments and we will gladly answer. Check out the JBL Go4 speaker Tune 770 NC headphones and watch out for more reviews soon.

With three different wearing styles – Buds, Beam and Flex – the JBL Live 3 Earbuds series ensures comfort and flexibility. Equipped with Hi-Res Audio Wirelessly and JBL Signature Sound, the newest true wireless lineup also features Bluetooth 5.3 with LE so users can enjoy stable multipoint connections plus an improved, extended battery life. Available in two new colorways, Black and Silver, the JBL Live TWS 3 lineup offers users both style and durability with an IP55 waterproof rating.

Features

● Smart charging case

● 10mm dynamic driver

● True Adaptive Noise Cancelling with custom controls

● BT 5.3 with LE Audio*

● High-res audio wireless with LDAC

● JBL Spatial Sound

● 6 mics for perfect calls and customized call experience

● IP55 certified waterproof

● Personi-Fi 3.0

● Multipoint connection

● Wireless charging

Up to 40 hours total playtime

10+30H play time (ANC off) with speed charge (10min=4h) via Type-C

The JBL Live 3 Earbuds series are now available on JBL.com for $199.95

 

Unboxing

Creative Zen Air SXFI earbuds & Creative Zen Hybrid SXFI headphones launched

Creative Technology today proudly unveils its latest True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds and headphones, the Creative Zen Air SXFI and Creative Zen Hybrid SXFI, designed to transport users into the immersive world of Super X-Fi. With a simple tap, users can expand their soundstage and be engulfed in every detail of their preferred content across platforms like Netflix, Spotify, and YouTube, all powered by the built-in SXFI technology. Boasting additional features such as Adaptive Hybrid ANC and Ambient mode, Bluetooth 5.3, low-latency of up to ~100 ms, the Creative Zen Air SXFI and Creative Zen Hybrid SXFI are poised to redefine how users engage with their favourite content.

Renowned for its ability to recreate the expansive soundstage of a high-end multi-speaker surround system, Super X-Fi now shines in the latest Creative Zen Air SXFI and Creative Zen Hybrid SXFI, enriching users’ listening experience with spatial audio. With Super X-Fi activated, users can transcend the boundaries of traditional stereo sound, immersing themselves in a three-dimensional audio world teeming with heightened realism and depth. Whether it’s the thunderous roar of a cinematic explosion, the subtle rustle of leaves in a forest, or the precise positioning of footsteps in a game, Super X-Fi delivers unparalleled spatial accuracy and depth, allowing users to truly feel like they’re part of the action.

Coupled with the SXFI APP, available on iOS and Android phones, the full potential of Super X-Fi can be further unlocked by personalising Super X-Fi to users’ exact head and ear shape for an even more precise rendition.

Beyond the Super X-Fi integration, the Creative Zen Air SXFI and Creative Zen Hybrid SXFI are packed with nifty features to cater to today’s diverse users. With Hybrid ANC, Adaptive ANC, and Ambient mode, users can seamlessly switch between the three modes, adapting to different environments and choosing to immerse themselves in music or stay aware of their surroundings. Moreover, the low-latency mode ensures audio stays perfectly synced up, whether users are gaming or watching movies. And with Multipoint connectivity, users can easily switch between two Bluetooth devices without missing a beat.

Zooming in on their primary features, the Creative Zen Air SXFI boasts custom-tuned 10mm Neodymium drivers, ensuring crystal-clear highs and well-balanced mids for an exceptional audio playback experience. With a total playtime of up to 39 hours (with ANC OFF), along with IPX5 water resistance and wireless charging capabilities, it’s perfect for those on the move.

The Creative Zen Hybrid SXFI features custom-tuned 40mm Neodymium drivers, delivering precise highs and deep lows for an elevated audio experience. With an impressive total playtime of up to 70 hours (with ANC OFF), users can enjoy extended listening sessions without any interruptions. Its foldable headband design adds to its portability, and support for analog line-in offers versatile connectivity options. Additionally, the built-in mics with ENC (Environment Noise Cancellation) ensure clearer communication during calls and voice commands, enhancing the overall user experience.

Pricing and Availability

Creative Zen Air SXFI is priced at £69.99 and is available for pre-order at Creative.com.

Creative Zen Hybrid SXFI is priced at £89.99 and is available for pre-order at Creative.com.

For more information, visit here

Tech Review – MIXX StreamBuds Ultra Mini true wireless earbuds

The MIXX StreamBuds Ultra Mini true wireless earbuds are one of their latest earbuds to hit the shelves and have much more to offer than the StreamBuds Solo 1 we recently reviewed here and this time they have access to their app which offers more features.

OK so first thing to note is the packaging which is well presented again and hard to open but joking aside they do give a good presentation to start off with which for me means a lot and it only gets better from there.

The charge case is certainly one that gets a thumbs up for me with a weighty feel to it and also an LED display so you know where you stand with your battery life, this is nothing new however looks well on this case and it good to see, the case have MIXX on top to and the build quality of the case is excellent and has a secure lid and magnets inside to keep the buds secure and the case is made with Zinc Alloy.

These buds have a small stem on them which I prefer and a similar footprint on the earbuds themselves to the Solo 1 so if you are moving from one to the other here there is no real difference when it comes to the feel of them. They are also super light.

Controls
The earbuds have controls which you can take control of via their MIXX Control app which has a nice UI and is simple to use which is a great start and when you open the app first it looks really well with a tiled approach. It is simple to navigate and we go though this in the video review below to show you the features.
Find it:
The App has another useful function which may prove invaluable to many who are constantly misplacing earbuds. Just use ‘find it’ and it will show the last location the Ultra Mini earbuds picked up signal and by pressing the ‘click to play’ button it will produce a noise to help find them.
Clear Voice:
‘Beam-forming’ technology is used to focus the four 4 built-in microphones which pick up more of the voice and less of the surrounding noise, making phone calls sound much clearer. Ideal in a noisy environment, a busy office or for a conference call from home and in my testing the calls do sound great both ends also working with Zoom and Teams.
Sound

The sound is crisp and sharp and overall decent for the price you pay there is no lag latency and no tinny sound when maxed out, they are loud enough for me and overall the audio was good, highs lows and mids fine and all genres tested had no issues to report and anyone that just wants to have a decent pair of earbuds that will not break the bank and a cool case will be happy, they have no ANC on board which is the only gripe for me but other than that they are a worthy pair of earbuds to put on your list.

MIXX Control App

 

Product Features:
  • Robust zinc alloy charge case
  • Customise sound settings with the mixx control app
  • Touch sensor controls – play, pause and more
  • Digital display screen showing battery
  • Hands free calling
  • 6 Hours battery time on single charge
  • 24 Hours total play time with charge case
  • 15 Minute quick charge – 15 mins = 2 hours of play time

BUY

Video Review

Tech Review – Skullcandy EcoBuds Sustainable earbuds

The Skullcandy Ecobuds are the latest edition to their earbuds collection which are aiming at the environment all round but not forgetting their audio prowess either at an affordable price.

Coming with a new look charging case and a built in cable these look well out of the box and a different approach to their case and how they charge which is through your smartphone or tablet with a USB-C connection, you can off course opt to plug into a wall but charging this handy and different and then you have no need to worry about forgetting a cable with you as it is right there on the case.

The fit is secure with the  design and will not fall out of your ears they are a perfect fit with the right tips giving an excellent seal which is the best way to use your earbuds, always check the tips to get the best seal.

The sound here is great and I expected no less,based on the Dime series earbuds the controls have all the features you would expect to find here with plenty to keep you going and their EQ mode is excellent here given there is no app this time around.

Controls

Hold for one second on left and right for volume up and down

Track forward and reverse tap twice on left and right

Voice assistant tap the right earbud for 4 seconds

EQ change is tap`the left earbud for 4 seconds

Play and pause is a single tap on either

The sound overall is great and well balanced and I am not complaining one bit here they have done a great job with decent volume and a full suite of controls for calls and music with no lag latency or tinny sound and you will be impressed at what is given here.

Overall you can’t go wrong for what you get here and their mission and they also look cool and with a built in cable you are always covered should you need to charge up.

Features

  • Up to 8 Hours of Battery Life + Rapid Charge – 10 minutes of charging gives you 2 hours of playtime • Charge From Your Phone with Integrated USB-C Charging Cable
  • Premium Audio Quality with Microphone in Each Earbud
  • Noise Isolating Fit
  • Music, Bass Boost and Podcast EQ Modes
  • Bluetooth® (v5.2)
  • IPX4 Sweat and Water Resistance
  • Auto On/Connect
  • Call, Track & Volume Controls with Capacitive Touch
  • Use Either Bud Solo

BUY 

Video Review

Tech Review – MIXX StreamBuds Solo 1

The MIXX StreamBuds Solo 1 are a new trio of earbuds recently launched that are an affordable pair of earbuds that come in a unique kind of charging case too which piqued my interest out of the box as to how secure my earbuds would be in this and all being told they are safe and sound with a good strong magnet behind the magnetic flap that closes them in.

The earbuds are small and so is the charge case here which is handy for pockets and handbags alike and for earbuds it is not often you see them this small but they fit well in the ears and are secure and look different by their design which again I like which is a different take to the common look on earbuds today, there is no srem so they just sit in the ears and again as always mentioned go through the tips to get the right ones for you, the better the seal the better the sound and that will always be the case.

Being cheap does not mean bad performance in some cases and given there is no app here I was not expecting them to be by all means high end when it comes to sound as there is no EQ here but out of the box they sound good in fairness with decent volume they are not overloaded with bass but on the brighter side for me, the highs lows and mids are fine no lag latency noted or tinny sound as you would tend to find on cheaper earbuds.

Battery life is decent enough and they come with fast charge too which is fine considering the size of these earbuds which is smaller than my usual go to but i have come to like them alot while reviewing them.

They have plenty of controls built in and nothing missing here which stands up for them, there is no auto play or pause or wireless charging and you are given all the basics such as voice assistant access, play and pause tracks, volume control and call control and you can skip and reverse tracks too.

Overall these are a solid pair of earbuds that do a good job for the price which a different look all round with the case and earbud design.

MIXX StreamBuds Solo 1 out of case – techbuzzireland

Features

  • 4.5 hours play time on a single charge
  • 13 hours extra charge in charge case
  • *Total of 18 hours playtime when you include the charge case
  • Hands free calling
  • Dots design – small and discreet in size
  • Changeable ear cushions to find perfect size
  • Touch sensor controls – play pause and more
  • Google and Siri Assistant compatible
  • Quick charge option – 15 mins charge = 2 hours play time

BUY

Video Review

MIXX launches its new StreamBuds Ultra Mini true wireless earbuds offering true customisation of sound and touch control at an affordable price

Mixx, known for its premium yet affordable audio solutions, is pleased to introduce the Mixx StreamBuds Ultra Mini True Wireless Earbuds range. They provide the ultimate audio immersion with a beautifully designed, robust zinc alloy charge case and sound settings that are fully customisable via the Mixx Control App. With hands free calling, personalised touch sensor control and quick charge, they are ideal for use when exercising, on a daily commute or on a holiday break. The earbuds are made from a silicon stem design, perfect for those that prefer the more traditional stem design. They come with three sizes of silicon cushions for the perfect fit to make them comfortable enough for all day use. The MIXX StreamBuds Ultra Mini true wireless earbuds are available from MIXX in a choice of black gun metal, silver white or champagne for a very affordable RRP of £69.
Personalise EQ sounds and customise controls:
The Ultra Mini earbuds bring customisation to a whole new level and users can now completely change the sound to suit individual personal preference. With the Mixx Control APP, the earphones can be tuned with a simple 10 band graphic equaliser and once the sound is as desired, the earbuds will be programmed instantly with the wearers’ personal sound signature. Offering a truly hassle free experience, this only needs to be done once so, afterwards, the App is not needed, and the sound does not need to be configured again unless any changes are required. It is not only possible to customise the sound but the touch controls too. The fully configurable touch controls allow for complete personalisation of the way the earbuds operate so a user can programme the touch buttons. The touch buttons on the earbuds make controlling music an absolute breeze and users can play and pause, answer or decline calls on the go and activate Google Assistant or Siri with a single touch.
Find it:
The App has another useful function which may prove invaluable to many who are constantly misplacing earbuds. Just use ‘find it’ and it will show the last location the Ultra Mini earbuds picked up signal and by pressing the ‘click to play’ button it will produce a noise to help find them.
Clear Voice:
‘Beam-forming’ technology is used to focus the four 4 built-in microphones which pick up more of the voice and less of the surrounding noise, making phone calls sound much clearer. Ideal in a noisy environment, a busy office or for a conference call from home. 
 
 
Quick charging:
The Ultra Mini earbuds offer 6 hours of playtime on a single charge with the magnetic flip top case adding another 18 hours of charge totaling an impressive 24 hours. In the unlikely event, a wearer runs out of juice, the quick charge feature gives 2 hours of additional playtime in only 15 minutes, so the music never needs to stop. The digital display on the charging case shows the battery status so users know when a recharge is needed. Ideal for long commutes, for holiday travel or to keep the tunes coming all day long.
The MIXX Ultra Mini true wireless earbuds are the ultimate partner for a premium, customisable audio journey and at only £69 offer true value for money too.