Tag: Headphones

PSB Announces the M4U 8 MKII in Espresso Brown

PSB Speakers, long renowned for affordable excellence in loudspeaker and headphone design, announces a new Espresso Brown colourway for the M4U 8 MKII wireless ANC headphones at the CanJam premier headphone and audio show in New York City, New York, ahead of the public release. The advanced, wireless active noise cancelling headphones are the company’s leading headphone product and the new finish option will be made available across PSB sales channels in the spring of 2023.

New Colour, Same Great Sound

PSB has a long-held reputation since 2011 of creating award-winning headphones. The M4U 8 MKII implements advanced personalization technology by Audiodo Personal Sound™ along with a comprehensive set of features. The new Espresso Brown colourway continues this legacy while bringing added luxury to the mobile listening experience.

Personalised Sound with Audiodo™

Using breakthrough technology and a non-replicable set of algorithms, Audiodo Personal Sound™ calibrates the headphones to adjust to the unique hearing of every listener, revealing the “True to Nature” sound signature which PSB Speakers is known for. Through a quick and easy hearing assessment, Audiodo Personal Sound™ maps out a precise and thorough understanding of the listeners hearing, calculates what changes need to be made based on personal sound perception and hearing abilities, and creates a unique profile for every user. All customisation options, including Audiodo Personal Sound™ profiles, are accessed through the PSB Headphones app, a full-featured app that regularly keeps the headphones up-to-date with the latest firmware updates and codes.

M4U 8 MKII in Espresso Brown

Feature and Comfort Rich

Enhanced battery life, aptX™ HD Bluetooth, the latest active noise cancelling technologies and more highlight the M4U 8 MKII listening experience, while PSB’s immersive RoomFeel™ technology delivers the clear, natural sound of a live performance and stunning musicality overall. To ensure fatigue-free listening over long periods, the two-way adjustable ear pads are gyro-suspended for optimal ergonomics and supreme comfort. Soft foam ear pads, an adjustable, expandable headband and a lightweight design provide a customised, unrestrained fit so that nothing stands between users and what they want to listen to. Whether for work or play, the M4U 8 MKII headphones bring comfortable and noise-free extended listening to any hi-fi lover on-the-go.

Key Features of the M4U 8 MKII

Bluetooth HD wireless connection with aptX™ HD and Qualcomm® cVc™ technology
Separate Active Noise Cancelling (ANC), Active, and Passive Modes
All-digital ANC with digital MEMS microphones decreases audio conversion error
PSB’s latest RoomFeel™ technology with greater detail and better imaging
Personal Sound by Audiodo™ through the PSB Headphones app
Access additional features, settings, and over-the-air updates using the PSB Headphones app
NFC pairing for supported devices
Over-ear, amplified, closed back design
Physical controls for volume, playback, and mode selection
Unique dual 3.5mm input connections (left or right side)
Tangle-free cords for analogue wired and USB-C connection
1/4” stereo and dual-input flight adapters
Runs on included rechargeable battery power
Up to 25 hrs battery playtime in Active Mode
Gyro-suspended ear pads
Carry case and easy folding for travel and storage

Sennheiser announces the HD 660S 2 audiophile headphones

Sennheiser’s updated HD 660S2 expands the capabilities of the 600-series family, the longstanding benchmark for high-performance audiophile headphones. Sennheiser responded to the hi-fi community’s feedback, crafting a headphone that skillfully balances reference-level detail with engaging frequency response. The headphones features a more dramatic listen with greater intensity from enhanced sub-bass tuning, extracting dynamic impact and emotion from audio enthusiasts’ favourite recordings. The updated acoustics offer a delightful new way to experience music all over again.

“Our new Sennheiser HD 660S2 offers listeners what they requested most from the headphones’ predecessor,” says Jermo Koehnke, Sennheiser Audiophile Product Manager. “With precision and power like no other and new sensitivity across all frequencies, listeners will hear details they’ve never heard before, especially at the lower end of the spectrum.”

 

The depth and drama audiophiles crave

​Improving on a beloved classic while retaining its best traits was a challenging task, starting with the lowest end of the frequency plot. The HD 660S2’s warm bass characteristics pair perfectly with its silky-smooth treble performance and trademark vocal presence, allowing the timbre and uniqueness of any instrument part to stand out.

Across the entire frequency spectrum, the HD 660S2 delivers a refined listening experience thanks to improved transducer airflow and a refined voice coil. From thunderous timpani crescendos to pulsating EDM rises, even the most discerning audiophiles will notice the depth and nuance of low-frequency passages, adding dramatic flair to any type of music. Ultimately, listeners are treated to deeper, clearer bass without sacrificing the expansive detail the series is known for. By reducing the voice coil’s weight, impulse response improves, bringing hyper-realistic textures to the forefront of any performance reproduction. The overall experience is smoother and warmer than the original HD 660S, thanks to ​ that reduces the distances between select peaks and troughs. The overall impedance matches that of the HD 600 and HD 650, at an audiophile-friendly 300 ohms, for punchy dynamics and impressively low distortion.

​

A fit for the long haul
​Designed in Germany and manufactured at Sennheiser’s state-of-the-art Ireland production facility, the HD 660S2 continues the series’ emphasis on quality, functional design using materials that contribute to the hi-fi experience. Plush earpads and cushy headband padding place the revised 300-ohm transducers at the optimal distance from the ear resulting in a spacious soundstage with an abundance of detail – even for extended musical exploration. The transducer surround drops the resonant frequency from 110 Hz (original HD 660S) down to 70 Hz for hefty kick drums that move with ease. Even the outer mesh grilles are crafted to manage airflow at the ideal impedance for exquisite open-back listening sessions.

Versatile enough to connect to vintage classics and modern solutions alike, the HD 660S2 ships with two 1.8 meter (5.8 ft) user-detachable cables that terminate to 6.3 mm (1/4-inch) single-ended stereo and 4.4 mm balanced stereo jack plugs, respectively. A 6.3 mm to 3.5 mm (1/8-inch) adapter is also included, for use with popular hi-fi gear from DAC-amps, DAPs, and dedicated amplifiers such as the Sennheiser HDV 820. Distinguishing bronze accents complement the elegant jet-black finish, all of which is protected by a storage pouch.

Pricing and availability
​The Sennheiser HD 660S2 will be available for pre-order globally from 8th February 2023 and will go on sale 21st February 2023, with an RRP of £499 / €599.

Hands On – Skullcandy x SLYR gaming headset and Dime 2 Doritos edition #Skullcandy #Doritos

The latest new tech to drop into techbuzz is a collaboration between Skullcandy and Doritos edition which of course is limited and will start shipping next month and we have been lucky to get our hands on them early to check them out, this is not the first time Skullcandy have done a collaboration and we hope to see more down the road and cast your mind back to last October when they announced a collaboration with Capcom and check out our review of the Limited edition Street fighter headset.

Not much has changed here but the branding which is stansoutish to say the least which I like over the neutral colours we see everyday and with the collaboration it makes it that bit more special and of course been a limited run.

“Skullcandy and self-expression are synonymous and this drop is no different. Together with Doritos, we’re adding a little flavour to a space traditionally saturated with muted colourways, allowing gamers to stand out from the competition,” said Derek Steiner, Director of Global Brand Partnerships, Skullcandy. “The SLYR and Dime 2 are the ideal products for this collab, both accessible and packed with flavour so gamers can boldly be themselves. The duo provides the best of both worlds – SLYR for gaming at home and Dime 2 for on-the-go mobile sessions.”

If you want to know anymore ask as always and we will gladly answer you and we will test them out over the coming weeks given there is more aesthetics that has changed here we will test them out and check the full unboxing video below for all the details.  The limited-edition Skullcandy x Doritos are available now for purchase exclusively on Skullcandy.com and will ship mid-February. Overall my first impressions so far are they stand out and are loud and sound as good as their original models.

Skullcandy x Doritos Limited-Edition SLYR Multi-Platform Wired Gaming Headset – £69.99

  • UV-Reactive Glow Graphics

  • Skullcandy Supreme Sound – Unique audio-tuning process enables users to maximize the depth and detail of each sound

  • Multi-Platform Connectivity – Crystal clear audio on PC, Playstation, Switch and Xbox, levelling-up

  • the listening experience on any platform. And with the 3.5mm audio cable, SLYR is the definition of ‘plug and play’

  • Bi-Directional Mic – Improves voice pickup for enhanced communications and clarity in multiplayer settings

  • Mute & Volume Control – Easy-to-reach, on-board controls enable gamers to quickly mute and adjust volume without gameplay interference

  • Durable, Lightweight Design – Constructed from tough, lightweight materials including head-conforming memory-foam ear cushions wrapped in moisture-wicking and breathable material for all-day comfort

Skullcandy x Doritos Limited-Edition Dime 2 True Wireless Earbuds – £39.99

  • UV-Reactive Glow Graphics

  • Built-In Tile Finding Technology

  • 12 Hours Total Battery Life

  • Microphone, Call, Track & Volume Controls

  • Auto Connect

  • IPX4 Sweat & Water Resistant

  • Micro-USB charging case with snap lid and integrated lanyard

BUY

Unboxing

Edifier launches the New WH950NB Hi Resolution Audio Wireless headphones

Wireless Noise-Cancelling Over Ear Headphones Featuring “Hi Resolution Audio” and “Hi Resolution Audio Wireless” Certification plus LDAC Codec and Advanced 4-Mic ENC for The Best Voice and Audio Clarity.

Edifier, the forward-thinking audio-technology brand, have announced the release of a brand new wireless over-ear headphone, the WH950NB, which continues the brand’s outstanding record for manufacturing affordable but premium quality audio products. 

The WH950NB is equipped with intelligent active noise cancellation algorithms that remove surrounding noise. There are two active noise cancellations that meet everyone’s needs. Furthermore, user’s can choose between ambient sound or wind reduction in different scenarios to create the ideal environment. 

The WH950NB is certified to both “Hi Resolution Audio” and “Hi Resolution Audio  Wireless” standards with LDAC certification. The headphones have been expertly tuned by Edifier’s world class audio team to deliver professional studio grade sound. The headset reaches a frequency response of 40kHz and output high quality audio quality. Whether it’s listening to music, audiobooks/podcasts, gaming, using for conference calls or travel, the Edifier WH950NB provides exceptional levels of control and audio as users utilize a selection of highly competitive features.

The WH950NB uses four built in microphones to ensure clear voice calls. These microphones are integrated with the audio signal processor to direct your voice, reduce irritating background noise and suppress wind noise which adds an extra layer of crystal-clear quality to the conversations that matter most – a real bonus when making important calls “on the move” or in a busy office environment. When listening to music, or immersed in a thrilling action-packed game, audio is rich and powerful with a boosted bass depth.

The headset has a 40mm composite titanium film driver that delivers exceptional sound. It accurately presents natural and balanced audio for all music genres.

The latest Bluetooth 5.3 allows you to switch from one device to another. You can multi-task while watching a movie on your laptop then moving to answering a call. Also included are Music-, Game- and Theatre-mode. Music mode has the best setting for enjoying your favourite playlists. Game Mode has an ultra-low latency of 80ms, allowing you to experience smoother, faster, more immersive gameplay. Theatre mode is a combination of surround sound features and professionally tuned EQ that’s made for watching movies or videos anywhere, anytime.

The Edifier WH950NB has a fast-charging time of 10 minutes giving up to 7 hours of charge – this is better than most comparable headphones in this product range in the market. A full charge of 1.5  hours gives up to 55 hours of audio or you can enjoy up to 34 hours of playback time with ANC. These are the perfect choice for commuters or travellers who don’t need to keep worrying about whether they need to plug in and recharge.

Stylishly designed with a brushed, stainless-steel headband encompassing PVD and durable protein leather, the WH950NB are hard wearing yet very comfortable to wear. The earpads have memory foam pads to ensure a pleasurable listening experience. The WH950NB is foldable and can easily be carried in a backpack or briefcase.

Main Features:

  • Active Noise Cancellation + Ambient Sound selection
  • LDAC codec with Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification
  • Advanced 4-Mic ENC for the best voice clarity
  • Personalization EQ and select various music modes in Edifier Connect APP
  • Supports Google Fast Pair for Android users
  • 1.5 hours fully charged for at least 34 hours playtime (ANC ON)/ 55 hours (ANC OFF) 
  • Fast Charging: 7 hours play back in just 10 minutes
  • 40mm dynamic driver
  • Double Protection for safe hearing: Volume less than 85dB and a cut off timer
  • Foldable and lightweight design. Ideal for daily use, conference meetings and travel

 

Price & Availability:

Available in White or Black at £179.99 from https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BM92D2D1

 

 

 

Skullcandy and Dorito Bring Bold Self Expression with Latest Collaboration

Skullcandy, the #1 selling brand in stereo headphones and true wireless earbuds under $100, announced today a limited-edition collaboration with Doritos, the #1 flavoured tortilla chip brand. The exclusive drop reimagines the Skullcandy SLYR Multi-Platform Gaming Headset and Dime 2 True Wireless Earbuds in Doritos Red with a zesty UV-reactive “blacklight” effect that looks right at home alongside dialed-in RGB setups. Ideal for gaming at home or on the go, the limited-edition Skullcandy x Doritos drop is available now for purchase exclusively on Skullcandy.com and will ship mid-February.

“Skullcandy and self-expression are synonymous and this drop is no different. Together with Doritos, we’re adding a little flavour to a space traditionally saturated with muted colourways, allowing gamers to stand out from the competition,” said Derek Steiner, Director of Global Brand Partnerships, Skullcandy. “The SLYR and Dime 2 are the ideal products for this collab, both accessible and packed with flavour so gamers can boldly be themselves. The duo provides the best of both worlds – SLYR for gaming at home and Dime 2 for on-the-go mobile sessions.”

The newly-launched SLYR delivers rich, detailed audio, crystal-clear communication and all-day comfort. With premium audio drivers, SLYR delivers Supreme Sound and additional features designed to maximize the gaming experience. Next-level, in-game audio depth ensures that users not only hear enemies creeping up from behind but also the roar of the crowd. The ultra-compact Dime 2 earbuds are easy to carry for gaming on the go, and packed with features, including built-in Tile-finding technology so users never have to worry about losing their buds.

Skullcandy x Doritos Limited-Edition SLYR Multi-Platform Wired Gaming Headset – £69.99

  • UV-Reactive Glow Graphics

  • Skullcandy Supreme Sound – Unique audio-tuning process enables users to maximize the depth and detail of each sound

  • Multi-Platform Connectivity – Crystal clear audio on PC, Playstation, Switch and Xbox, levelling-up

  • the listening experience on any platform. And with the 3.5mm audio cable, SLYR is the definition of ‘plug and play’

  • Bi-Directional Mic – Improves voice pickup for enhanced communications and clarity in multiplayer settings

  • Mute & Volume Control – Easy-to-reach, on-board controls enable gamers to quickly mute and adjust volume without gameplay interference

  • Durable, Lightweight Design – Constructed from tough, lightweight materials including head-conforming memory-foam ear cushions wrapped in moisture-wicking and breathable material for all-day comfort

Skullcandy x Doritos Limited-Edition Dime 2 True Wireless Earbuds – £39.99

  • UV-Reactive Glow Graphics

  • Built-In Tile Finding Technology

  • 12 Hours Total Battery Life

  • Microphone, Call, Track & Volume Controls

  • Auto Connect

  • IPX4 Sweat & Water Resistant

  • Micro-USB charging case with snap lid and integrated lanyard

  • Ultra-compact at just 2.45 inches long and 1.53 inches wide. The small, efficient battery cuts its carbon footprint to less than half that of other earbuds.

Tech Review – Edifier WH500 headphones

The Edifier WH500 headphones are the latest on offer from the company at an affordable price and at first look I did not think these would sound good and I was totally wrong. Why you might ask well small cups and thin bands just remind me of office headsets and do not provide decent audio well let me tell you these give an excellent audio experience they are comfortable, super light and gave me a little nudge not to judge a book by its cover, however coming from Edifier I knew they would not sound terrible but they just excelled in my opinion.

OK so these are packed with features as expected with access to the Edifier Connect app which for me is important with headphones, there is a safety level here to to conserve your ears which again is important and has been in the media of late but this does not take away from the great audio experience you will find here, there is also good battery life to be found with up to 40 hours and based on my test it was around 39 max volume which is still good, you have fast charging which gives you around 6 hours playback in 10 mins which is pretty impressive and it takes 2 hours to fully charge the headphones.

Powered with 30mm drivers these do pack a punch and better than I anticipated and with access to the app enhances the experience with good bass, highs lows and mids and no distortion with that said you have other options in the app to which can also see in the video review below. No lag latency was noted either during testing and calls also very good both ends.

Overall with all the options in the app seen below makes these a good headset and one to watch if you like the small cups approach, for me I never took a shine to such but this pair has changed my mind.

 

Main Features:

    • Personalize EQ and select various music modes via Edifier Connect APP.
    • 2hrs fully charged for 40hrs music playtime.
    • Fast charging: 6hrs playback in just 10mins.
    • 30mm dynamic driver
    • Double protection for safe hearing: Volume less than 85dB and a cut off timer
  • Foldable and lightweight design. Ideal for daily use and travel.
  • Trendy color options for users to match their style

Price & Availability:  £44.99 om Amazon

Video Review

Tech Review – OneOdio A30 ANC headphones

Stuck for a pair of ANC headphones and on a budget well these might be something to look at coming in under 60 euro, From testing and owning countless pairs of leading headphones myself it is great to see how much the cost to performance ratio has hit headphones and TWS earbuds and with ANC being a must have these do rather well given the cost here.

Having tested these over the Xmas period these do a really good job overall and this includes sound. More on the bass heavy side those who like bass will like these and the also get really loud too which is a personal feature I like however if using an iPhone APPLE will tell you otherwise and from testing these for a week solid several hours a day APPLE turned the volume down on my behalf.

So they are loud and the sound is great, especially watching films, I had these paired with my Projector too and they really give you that immersive feel to whatever you watch, direction is good highs lows and mids are fine and voice, background noises also picked up really well, the controls are simple to use with raised buttons and these are easy to navigate blindly too and work very well and all housed on the left side, on the right side you have got your ANC switch too and this works well, I have a fan beside my bed and once switched on the noise is gone and a good indicator as some headphones I have used you could still here it but not this time. Given once placed on the ears most of the external noise is gone but I could hear the fan but not after turning on the ANC.

For the money you cant complain really they are built well they are comfortable good battery life and they have decent ANC compared to more expensive headphones out there..

BUY HERE 

Tech Review – OneOdio Fusion A70 headphones

OneOdio is brand we have worked with before and they have some new headphones to check out and first out to test was the A70 fusion which are super affordable and thats what people like these days with the cost of living crisis. But what most people are interested in is how a product that is affordable sounds and it is a good report here.

Bass driven is the word I would use here after testing these for a few days, comfort too with soft plush cups they can be worn for long periods of time, with the controls on one side it makes navigation easy and works well and for me I had no issues with them and they just simply work..

You can use these if you are a DJ or have equipment to do the same but for my testing they were tested on a smartphone, there is no app and it is a simple pairing process and off you go and listen to your hearts content.

The controls allow you to make your last phone call, access your voice assistant, skip and reverse tracks and of course volume and call control and all kept simple as mentioned placed on one side.

The sound is bass driven as mentioned above with no overlapping or distortion at max volume,highs lows and mids are fine and overall these are a great pair of headphones with really good bass powered with 40mm drivers and battery life is decent too at 70 hrs at 80% volume and less on full volume, there is no ANC present but the cups cover your ears and block out most of the outside world and with no ANC present this also gives them better longevity with the battery.

See the video below for more.

  • Hi-Res Sound Quality by Professional Audio Team – Equipped with custom-made Aluminium Fascia for Punchy Bass & Dynamic 40-millimeter Neodymium drivers, we provide you with stereo sound & powerful bass. Wearing this over-ear headphone, you can hear every detail of the music, and will be amazed by its sound quality
  • Dual Mode & Never Power Off – 1) Wireless mode, OneOdio Fusion A70 provides up to 72 hrs playtime on a single charge. 2) Wired mode, you can also use it as a wired headphone with the provided 2 different audio jack cables (6.35mm to 3.5mm; 3.5mm to 3.5mm), so the headphone will be never powered off
  • Maximum Comfort & Space Saving – Over-ear ergonomic design ensures long-lasting wearing. The rotatable and foldable structure ensures this over-ear headphone fits your head properly and gives great sound isolation. Soft memory cotton and skin-friendly protein leather ensure long-lasting comfort. The foldable headband for saving space and is convenient for carrying
  • Music or Audio Sharing – Our headphones have developed and applied this technology for allowing 2 or more people to listen to music or watch TV simultaneously. Pair the 1st main headphones with your device via Bluetooth, plug the 6.35mm jack into the headphone and the other side 3.5mm jack into the 2nd headphone, and so on, then be ready to share your tunes with your friends or families
  • Wired Aux Jack Lock Design – To make sure the cable lock is in place for a stable connection, we add a jack lock system on the Aux plug. You don’t need to worry about any connection problems when connecting the jacks and sockets

BUY

Video Review

Tech Review – OneOdio Studio 10 Pro headphones

The OneOdio Studio 10 Pro are a simple to use pair of headphones with no controls at all so in short it is just pop them on sit back and enjoy the sounds, there is no app here either. They have 50mm neodymium drivers built in to deliver a powerful sound with good bass, aimed at the DJ these can also be used on mobile phones with a headphone jack and can plugged into games consoles and your TV, You can also plug into an amp or guitar.

These would be ideally used in a studio or for mixer panels and turntable something which we do not have here and tested in a casual capacity with a sound system and mobile phone and for me the sound is quite good and loud with some bass thrown in, you can change the EQ via your device or platform used but in short these just plug in and you just listen to the tunes, they do come with an inline control which we demo in the video review so you have some control over your music like skip and reverse tracks and play and pause you can also answer and hang up on calls…Overall the sound is quite good no lag latency, highs lows and mids are fine and in general a decent audio experience for the price.

If you want a simple pair of cans to use these are just what you need with having super comfortable cups that block pretty much all the outside world and ideally used at home.

Features

  • BASS SOUND: Enjoy powerful bass and comfort with the OneOdio Studio headphones. Large 50-millimeter speaker unit drivers combined with neodymium magnets deliver dynamic bass, great for DJing, mixing, monitoring, or listening to music.
  • BUILT TO STAY COMFORTABLE: The soft padded ear cushions are designed for monitor headphones’ comfort and noise isolation. The headband is adjustable and stretchable for you to find the desired angle you like to fit in.
  • NO MORE ADAPTER: DJ-style coiled cord (9.8Ft Stretched) easily reaches from the TV or stereo to your chair. They both are completely detachable, so you can plug in any devices that have a 3.5mm or 6.35mm jack.
  • SINGLE-SIDE MONITORING: 90° swiveling ear cups for single-ear monitoring anytime; self-adjustable and flexible headband delivers a fatigue-free listening experience that can last for hours, ideal for mastering and mixing.
  • WORKS WITH: All devices have a 3.5mm or 6.35mm audio jack. Bass sound, durability, and comfort. These are the headphones you’ve been looking for.

BUY

Video Review