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Sonos Enters Headphone Market with $449 Ace Model

Sonos Enters Headphone Market with $449 Ace Model

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Sonos Enters Headphone Market with $449 Ace Model

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Sonos has introduced the Sonos Ace, the company’s first over-the-ear headphones, as part of a major product line extension. With a $449 price tag, these headphones represent the company’s debut in the highly competitive high-end headphone market, which has historically been dominated by companies such as Apple, Bose, and Sony. The Ace headphones, which come in black and soft white, will go on sale on June 5, 2024.

Important features and details

The Sonos Ace headphones have a number of cutting-edge features that cater to both casual listeners and audiophiles:

  • Dynamic Drivers: Ace claims to have high-quality sound thanks to its 40mm dynamic drivers.

  • Lossless Audio: Allows Android devices to stream lossless audio wirelessly using Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound AptX or via a 3.5mm connection.

  • Active Noise-Cancelling: Utilises eight in-built microphones to enable active noise-cancelling (ANC) and transparency mode. 

  • Battery Life: With ANC turned on, the battery can last up to 30 hours. It also has a rapid charge feature that can charge the battery in only three minutes and give three hours of use.

  • TV Audio Swap: A special function that lets owners of Sonos Arc soundbars switch the audio on their TV to their headphones by pushing a designated button. Soon, the first-generation Beam and all current Sonos soundbars will also have this feature.

Both Functionality and User Experience

First impressions of the Ace headphones were favourable at a press conference. The physical comfort was cited as a noteworthy feature, and the clarity and strong bass of the sound quality was acknowledged. The large ear cups and memory foam cushioning help the headphones’ overall comfort, even though their 11 ounces (312 grams) weight makes them slightly heavier than some rival models.

Design and Develop

The practicality of the design of the Ace headphones is seen in its usage of physical buttons rather than touch controls. Their design is recognisable, emulating the appearance and texture of other high-end headphones available, which may appeal to those looking for a straightforward, classic headphone experience.

Manoeuvre Strategic

Sonos’s foray into the headphone market is a calculated move to expand its product line beyond speakers. The company intends to capitalise on its reputation for providing high-quality audio and smooth interaction with its current devices, even though the Ace relies on Bluetooth instead of Wi-Fi. The launch of TV Audio Swap and the soon-to-be TrueCinema room-scanning effect are examples of Sonos’ dedication to improving the home theatre experience.

Also Read: Elon Musk Launches SpaceX’s Starlink Internet Services in Indonesia

Position in the Market and Prospects for the Future

Although there is fierce competition from well-known manufacturers for the Ace headphones, Sonos thinks it can carve out a niche by providing excellent comfort and sound quality, especially for owners of Sonos soundbars. It may have been a lost opportunity, but Sonos’ whole-home music systems do not integrate the headphones. The business does stress, though, that user testing indicated a preference for simple, conventional Bluetooth headphones over more intricate models.

In summary, The Ace headphones from Sonos reflect a daring entry into a brand-new market niche. With a focus on comfort, sound quality, and connection with home theatre systems, the Ace is poised to draw in both current Sonos users and new ones. The Ace headphones may be essential in determining Sonos’s future in the larger audio industry as the business innovates and broadens its product line.

Best Early Black Friday Deals on Headphones and Earbuds

Best Early Black Friday Deals on Headphones and Earbuds

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Finding the ideal headphones or earbuds to meet your lifestyle is like opening the door to a whole new world of blissful personal audio. These are the greatest early Black Friday offers on headphones and earbuds that you are probably looking for right now, regardless of your preferences for noise cancellation, affordable earbuds that won’t cost you very high, or high-quality headphones.

Best Prices On Earbuds And Headphones With Noise Cancellation

Headsets: The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling headphones are a good option if you’re searching for dependable noise-cancelling headphones that allow you to work from home or block out the outside world. They are now available at Walmart for $254.96 which was initially $348. It’s the most affordable price it’s been in the last three months and the lowest that any shop is offering it for. 

Best Early Black Friday Deals on Headphones and Earbuds

Image Source: businessinsider.com

Earphones: If you’d rather separate yourself with earphones, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II, which were previously priced at 279 dollars, are presently available for 199 dollars. These have a lot of features, but what really sets them apart is their noise-cancelling functionality.

Best Price On Headphones That Let You Hear What's Around You

The JBL Endurance Peak 3 is a great option for individuals who want safe earphones for the gym but yet allow them to be aware of their surroundings because of its aural aware technology and pleasant, safe fit. They were previously $99.95, but are now $69.95.

The Best Affordable Earbuds And Headphones

Earphones: If you frequently misplace your earphones and want high-quality earbuds at a reasonable price, have a look at the 2023 Echo Buds, which are currently on sale for $34.99 which was initially $49.99. The pricing of these sweat-resistant earphones with voice control for Alexa is the cheapest it has been in the past three months.

Also Read: Why ChatGPT-maker OpenAI Fired CEO Sam Altman? What’s Next?

Headsets: Try the Sennheiser HD 458BT Wireless that come with noise Cancelling from Best Buy, which are now on sale for $99.98 which was originally $199.98, if you’re looking for affordable headphones that block out noise. Not due to their quality, but solely given that they are half off, these noise-cancelling headphones are included in the budget category.

The Ultimate Guide to Selecting Value-for-Money Noise-Cancelling Earbuds​

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In a world where the hustle and bustle of daily life can be overwhelming, noise-cancelling earbuds have become a sanctuary for music lovers and busy professionals alike. But with a plethora of options available, how do you select a pair that offers the best bang for your buck? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the nuances of noise-cancelling technology and what to look for when choosing your perfect pair.

Understanding Noise Cancellation Technology

Before diving into the selection process, it’s crucial to understand the technology behind noise cancellation.

Active vs. Passive Noise Cancellation

Noise-cancelling earbuds come in two Flavors: active and passive. Active noise cancellation (ANC) uses microphones and speakers to create sound waves that counteract ambient noise. Passive noise cancellation, on the other hand, relies on the physical design of the earbuds to block out sound.

How Noise Cancellation Works

ANC earbuds pick up external sounds with built-in microphones. They then produce sound waves that are the exact opposite (anti-phase) of the unwanted noise, effectively cancelling it out. This technology is particularly effective against consistent, low-frequency sounds like the hum of an airplane or the rumble of a train.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Earbuds

With a basic understanding of noise cancellation, let’s delve into the factors that make a pair of earbuds truly value for money.

Sound Quality
The primary purpose of earbuds is to deliver sound, so quality is paramount. Look for earbuds with clear highs, rich mids, and deep bass. Reading reviews and testing them out (if possible) can give you a good idea of their audio fidelity.

Battery Life
ANC technology requires power, so battery life is a significant consideration. Ensure that the earbuds you choose can last through your daily activities without frequent recharging.

Comfort and Fit
Comfort is subjective, but it’s essential for long listening sessions. Look for earbuds with multiple ear tip sizes or those made from soft, flexible materials.

Build Quality and Durability
Your earbuds should withstand the rigors of daily use. Durable materials and solid construction are indicators of a pair that will last.

Additional Features

Modern earbuds come with a suite of additional features like touch controls, voice assistants, and customizable sound profiles. While not essential, these can enhance your listening experience.

Top Picks for Value-for-Money Noise-Cancelling Earbuds

Let’s explore some options across different price ranges.

Budget-Friendly Options

You don’t have to break the bank to get decent noise-cancelling earbuds. Brands like  Anker and Taotronics offer affordable options that don’t skimp on quality.

Mid-Range Contenders

For those willing to spend a bit more, brands like One Plus, Jabra and Sony provide a balance between cost and advanced features.

Premium Choices

If you’re looking for the crème de la crème, brands like Apple, Bose and Sennheiser offer top-tier noise cancellation and sound quality, albeit at a higher price point.

Where to Buy Your Earbuds

Once you’ve made your choice, it’s time to purchase. Consider buying from reputable retailers or directly from the manufacturer to ensure authenticity and warranty coverage.

Caring for Your Noise-Cancelling Earbuds

To get the most out of your investment, proper care is essential. Store them in a case when not in use, keep them clean, and avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures.

Conclusion

Selecting the right noise-cancelling earbuds doesn’t have to be daunting. By understanding the technology and considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can find a pair that offers excellent value for money and enhances your audio experience.

FAQs

  1. Can noise-cancelling earbuds completely eliminate all sounds? No, while they significantly reduce ambient noise, they can’t block out everything, especially sudden, high-frequency sounds.
  2. Do noise-cancelling earbuds pose any health risks? There’s no evidence to suggest that noise-cancelling earbuds pose health risks. However, listening at high volumes for extended periods can damage hearing.
  3. How long do noise-cancelling earbuds typically last? With proper care, quality noise-cancelling earbuds can last several years.
  4. Can I use noise-cancelling earbuds without music? Yes, you can use them to reduce ambient noise even when you’re not listening to audio.
  5. Are there noise-cancelling earbuds suitable for exercise? Yes, many brands offer sweat-resistant earbuds designed for physical activity.
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Yamaha Wireless Headphones

Yamaha Wireless Headphones, Neckband Earphones Series Debuted in India: Check Price And Features

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In India, Yamaha has announced the release of six new wireless audio products. Premium wireless headphones and wireless neckband earphones are part of the collection. According to Yamaha, the high-end Yamaha wireless headphones also feature Listening Optimiser, a feature that makes adjustments to music in real-time.

Yamaha EP-L700A: Specifications & Features

SBC, AAC, and Qualcomm aptX Adaptive Bluetooth codecs are supported by the high-end Yamaha YH-L700A over-the-ear headphones, which have 40mm, dynamic drivers. The headphones are compatible with the company’s companion app, which allows you to control various settings. According to Yamaha, the pair has 3D sound immersion, head tracking, and internal microphones to measure listening conditions.

Yamaha claims that the ANC on the YH-L700A headphones does not interfere with the sound source. The headphones have a swivel folding design and a 3.5mm headphone jack that supports Hi-Res Audio. The Yamaha YH-L700A headphones have a maximum battery life of 34 hours on a single charge and support voice assistants on connected devices. The wireless headphones are 330 grammes in weight.

Yamaha EP-E700A: Specifications & Features

The Yamaha YH-E700A wireless over-the-ear headphones, which are second in line, have 40mm dynamic drivers and support SBC, AAC, and Qualcomm aptX Adaptive Bluetooth codecs. To control settings and features, the headphones pair with Yamaha’s app. The Yamaha YH-E700A, unlike the higher-end Yamaha YH-L700A, does not have 3D sound immersion or head tracking. Microphones can be used with headphones to monitor internal listening conditions.

The Yamaha YH-E700A also supports ANC without affecting the original sound source, as well as voice assistants on connected devices, according to the company. They have a swivel folding design and a 3.5mm headphone jack that supports Hi-Res Audio. The Yamaha YH-E700A headphones have a battery life of up to 35 hours on a single charge.

Yamaha Wireless Headphones
Image source: ecoustics.com

Yamaha EP-E500A: Specifications & Features

The Yamaha YH-E500A headphones have an on-ear design, unlike the Yamaha YH-E700A and YH-E700A headphones, which are over-the-ear headphones. SBC, AAC, Qualcomm aptX, and aptX HD Bluetooth codecs are supported by the headphones, which have 40mm, dynamic drivers.

The Yamaha YH-E500A, like the Yamaha YH-E700A and YH-E700A headphones, supports ANC. It has a 3.5mm headphone jack as well, but it does not support Hi-Res Audio. The headphones have the longest battery life of the three headphones launched by the company in India, lasting up to 38 hours. Yamaha’s YH-E500A wireless headphones are 200 grammes in weight.

Yamaha EP-E70A: Specifications & Features

With 9.2mm dynamic drivers, the Yamaha EP-E70A wireless earphones have a hard neckband design. SBC, AAC, and Qualcomm aptX Adaptive Bluetooth codecs are supported by earphones. The Yamaha EP-E70A has a Bluetooth range of up to 10 metres without interference.

The Yamaha EP-E70A earphones, like the headphones, are said to have advanced ANC that does not affect the original audio source. With the ANC feature enabled, the earphones offer 18 hours of battery life and support voice assistant on connected devices. The earphones are 90 grammes in weight.

Yamaha EP-E50A: Specifications & Features

The Yamaha EP-E50A earphones, which were just released, have a soft neckband design and 9mm dynamic drivers. SBC, AAC, and Qualcomm aptX HD Bluetooth codecs are supported by earphones. The Yamaha EP-E50A also has a communication range of up to 10 metres without interference.

The new Yamaha EP-E50A earphones, unlike the Yamaha EP-E70A, do not support advanced ANC, which does not affect the source audio, but rather regular ANC. These earphones support voice assistants on connected devices and have a battery life of 9 hours, which is exactly half that of the more premium Yamaha EP-E70A earphones with ANC. The wireless headphones are 35 grammes in weight.

Yamaha EP-E30A: Specifications & Features

The Yamaha EP-E30A, the series’ most affordable earphones, has a soft neckband design and 8.6mm dynamic drivers. Unlike the Yamaha EP-E70A and EP-E50A models, which also support Qualcomm’s proprietary codec, the earphones only support the SBC and AAC codecs. The earphones have a range of 10 metres with no interference.

The Yamaha EP-E30A wireless earphones do not support active noise cancellation, but they do support voice assistants on connected devices and have a battery life of up to 14 hours. The Yamaha EP-E30A wireless earphones are 19.5 grammes in weight.

Price And Availability

Yamaha has released the YH-L700 Over-Ear Wireless Headphones with 3D Sound and Head Tracking in India for Rs 43,300. The YH-E700A Wireless Noise-Canceling Over-Ear Headphones costs Rs 29,900, while the YH-E500A Wireless Noise-Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones costs Rs 14,800. The EP-E70A Neckband Wireless Noise-Canceling Earphones costs Rs 23,600. The EP-E50A Wireless Noise-Cancelling Earphones neckband costs Rs 12,400, while the EP-E30A Wireless Earphones neckband costs Rs 4890. On Amazon, Yamaha Music Store, and Bajaao.com, all Yamaha headphones will be available.

Sennheiser HD 450SE

Sennheiser HD 450SE Headphones With ANC And Built-in Alexa Now Launched In India.

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On Wednesday, the Sennheiser HD 450SE headphones were released in India. The German audio brand’s over-the-ear headphones have active noise cancellation (ANC), a 30-hour battery life, and Bluetooth v5 connectivity. Sennheiser HD 450SE is a limited-edition version of the Sennheiser HD 450BT, which was released in March 2020. Amazon Alexa integration and a dedicated voice assistant button are included in the new over-the-ear headphones. The Sennheiser HD 450SE’s frequency response ranges from 18Hz to 22,000Hz. They are also foldable.

Specifications and Features

Sennheiser’s HD 450SE over-the-ear headphones support Bluetooth v5 and the AAC, aptX, aptX low latency, HSP, HFP, AVRCP, and A2DP codecs. The Sennheiser Smart Control app for Android and iOS allows users to control various aspects of their Sennheiser headphones. The app displays the battery level, provides a quick start guide, and allows for firmware updates. The use of a podcast mode improves vocal clarity.
Sennheiser HD 450SE has 32mm dynamic transducers, a frequency response range of 18Hz to 22,000Hz, and a dual-beamforming MEMS microphone. The Sennheiser headphones have ANC, a closed-back design, and a compact folding design, as previously mentioned. With a dedicated voice-assistant button, they can also use Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. Furthermore, the headphones feature an Amazon Alexa integration for improved connectivity.
Sennheiser HD 450SE can last up to 30-hours on a single charge when ANC is enabled. Using the USB Type-C port, the Sennheiser headphones can be fully charged in 2 hours. They are 195x100x232mm in size and weigh about 238 grams.

Sennheiser HD 450SE
Image source: technosports.co.in

Price And Availability

The Sennheiser HD 450SE will cost Rs. 14,990 at retail. They’ll be available for purchase exclusively on Amazon starting January 16 during the Amazon Republic Day Sale 2022. The Sennheiser headphones will be available in only one color: black.

About The Company

Sennheiser Electronic GmbH & Co. KG, based near Hannover, Germany, is one of the world’s leading audio equipment manufacturers. Neumann GmbH, the company’s Berlin-based subsidiary, is the world market leader in high-end studio recording microphones. Sennheiser is a well-known supplier to the global music and entertainment industries, as well as the broadcasting media. The company’s high-end microphones and headsets for professional and personal use, including noise-canceling headsets for pilots and headsets for call centres and multimedia applications, generate the majority of the company’s revenue. As well as hearing aids and wireless broadcasting systems, Sennheiser manufactures audio-communication systems for conference centres, museums, and trade shows.
Customers all over the world have praised their headphones, microphones, and all-around audio solutions, as well as their dependable service and dedicated staff. Sennheiser stands for premium products, the ultimate in sound quality, and undistorted listening enjoyment, whether their customers are artists, disc jockeys, scientists, sound technicians, or demanding music fans. Their drive for excellence stems from this enthusiasm. This is what drives the company to achieve its goal of transforming tones and sounds into the ideal auditory experience every day.
They are present on every continent, just like their customers. Sennheiser now employs more than 2,800 people around the world. Their production centers at their main plant in Wedemark, Germany, meet the highest technical standards. This is where they make microphones, cordless microphone and monitor systems, conference and guided-tour technology, aviation transmitter/receiver sets, and microphone and headphone capsules, among other things.

JBL logo

James Bullough Lansing – Story of Innovative Radio Engineer to JBL’s founder

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Today, JBL is a very famous brand for speakers and headphones. It has a huge electronic audio market. Whether it is simple consumer speakers, headphones or studio speakers; JBL is one of the demanding brands. It is founded by an audio engineer and a loudspeaker designer, James Bullough Lansing. He is one of the innovative engineers of America, who did remarkable work in the technical field.

In the middle of the 20th century, the whole world was mad over innovations. Also, many scientists were busy discovering new technologies. In such a challenging period, this audio engineer formed the base of the leading electronics company of the present era. 

Today, the world knows him as a pioneer and innovator. He inspires many entrepreneurs to be passionate about work, regardless of difficult situations.

Early life

James Bullough Lansing was born on 14 January 1902, in Greenridge, Illinois. He was the ninth of fourteenth kids of the Martini family. His father, Henry Martini was a coal mining engineer. Due to his father’s changing worksites, the family has to change their location simultaneously. Therefore, James spent childhood days in many different places.

JBL Founder
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At his young age, James lives with the Bullough family for a short duration. Thereafter, he changed the name from James martini to James Bullough Lansing in 1927.

Education

James Lansing brought up in Springfield, Illinois at his teenage. Where he completed his primary schooling at Lawrence school. He was a talented student at Springfield High School.

Also, he attained some training courses at a small business college in Springfield. He was famous amongst his friends, for playing pranks with his innovative ideas. Once, he built a Layden jar to trick his friends. 

He was an innovative child. James’ schoolmates get flatten over his powerful enough radio transmitter’s design.

Career

In early days of career, he worked as an automotive mechanic. While working, he attended an automotive school at one of the dealers’ Detroit courtesy. Afterward, he worked as an engineer at the radio station, Salt Lake City. 

James Lansing’s career took a new turn when he joined Baldwin Radio company. He got the opportunity to meet Ken Decker, who turned out as a business partner in upcoming years. 

Personal Life

At the age of 21, he left home after his mother’s death. Later, he settled in Salt Lake City for his job. It was the period, where he met a beautiful lady Glenna Peterson, who became his wife in the future.

New Business 

On 9 March 1927, James Lancing and decker founded Lansing Manufacturing company. It was the loudspeaker manufacturing unit. 

After the death of Decker, the company’s growth was declined enormously. At that time, Altec Service Corporation bought the company in 1941. Afterward, Lansing manufacturing company renamed Altec Lansing. In the end, James left the company after his 5-year contract as VP of the engineering section had terminated.

Establishment of JBL

In the year 1946, he established Lancing Sound, Incorporated. Due to some trademark issues with Altec lancing, the company renamed “James B. Lancing sound, Inc.” Furthermore, the company name shortened as JBL for product branding. In the future, JBL became the official name.

D101, a 15inch loudspeaker was the first product of the company. After that, the company launched D130, 15inch transducer in the market. In fact, the model’s several versions remain in the production for over 55 years.

Later Life

No doubt, James was a hardworking innovative engineer. But, the lack of business skills results in faltering business conditions. As a result, JBL started losing the market and the investors’ interest. For a few years, Marquardt corporation offered modest investment to the JBL. But after the acquisition of Marquardt by General Tire company, they broke ties with JBL.

The degrading financial conditions became out of the reach for the compassionate innovator. Also, several personal problems worsen the situation. Unfortunately, James Bullough died on 24 September 1949.

Bottom Line

James, with his innovative mind, constructed a strong base for JBL. In the present electronics market, JBL is trustworthy for its advanced Loudspeakers, headphones, and amplifiers.

JBL’s car audio system used in Ford’s top vehicle. Currently, it is one of the most loved headphone brands in all ranges of customers.