
H&S HighTech Invests in AONDevices and Becomes Preferred Distributor in Korea and Key Global Markets
AONDevices received a strategic investment from H&S HighTech Corp., a semiconductor manufacturer and electronics distribution company from South Korea. H&S HighTech will also serve as AONDevices' preferred distributor and strategic partner across Korea and select international markets. The two companies want to accelerate adoption of next-gen AI with smarter, ultra-efficient devices powered by AON’s tiny AI chips.

FiiO Unveils K15 Affordable Desktop DAC and Headphone Amplifier Featuring Dual AKM AK4497S Converters
FiiO (FiiO Electronics Technology Company), a Chinese manufacturer from Guangzhou established in 2007 by a team of engineers from OPPO - and one of the rare examples of a decent brand name - announces the launch of its new K15 Desktop DAC and Headphone Amplifier. This new model, described as a "trickledown" version of the FiiO K17, was carefully engineered to hit a price point which is half the price of any rival, and leverages the latest AK4497S Velvet Sound DAC from Asahi Kasei Microdevices Corporation (AKM) in a dual configuration.

New Bela Gem Stereo and Multi Audio Embedded Linux Boards
Bela announced the launch of Bela Gem, a powerful and accessible platform for real-time audio and sensor processing. Available in two versions – Stereo (2-in/2-out) and Multi (10-in/10-out) – Bela Gem transforms the PocketBeagle 2 single-board computer (SBC) into a lightning-fast embedded system for instruments, sound installations, effects units, and more. The two products are available through a Crowd Supply campaign now live, with shipping planned for October 2025.

Ceva RealSpace Software Adds Immersive Spatial Audio to Nothing Headphones and Earbuds
In a move that pushes the boundaries of personal audio, Ceva announced a new collaboration with London-based lifestyle consumer brand Nothing to bring Ceva's RealSpace Spatial Audio Software to its upcoming audio lineup. Ceva will power enhanced listening experiences across the Nothing and CMF sub-brand audio product lines, including the newly announced Nothing Headphone, which is the company’s first entry into the over-ear style audio device, developed in cooperation with KEF.

Test Bench: GAIT BGD-D72-64-4-0A1 Glass Diaphragm 1" Dome Tweeter
Glass Acoustic Innovations Technologies (GAIT) is a company from Taiwan and a renowned specialist in Ultra-Thin Glass (UTG) diaphragm technology, quickly gaining recognition in hifi and high-end audio circles. This 1" dome super tweeter uses a unique glass diaphragm formed using a chemical strengthening process, and includes a 1” voice coil and neodymium magnet motor, assembled with an injection-molded plastic faceplate, a phase plug, and a damped rear chamber.

You Can DIY: A New Op-Amp for Phono Preamps Part 1 - The Design
Brian Lowe (Belleson) developed a unique custom designed transconductance amplifier (Bel Amp) with fully differential (balanced) low noise JFET inputs and current output for phono preamps. This article details the requirements and parameter values, while exploring design options. A second article explains the discrete op-amp design, complete with simulations and measurements.

Brandenburg Labs introduces Directivity Transfer Function for Okeanos Pro
Brandenburg Labs has updated its advanced headphone system, Okeanos Pro, intended for music production and scientific research. Starting in August 2025, users will have access to the Directivity Transfer Function (DTF) editor. This new tool enables Okeanos Pro users to adjust the directivity of virtual sound sources. By incorporating DTFs into their workflow, audio professionals will be able to experience a more realistic representation of their studio.

Audio Engineering Society Heading to Long Beach, California
The 159th Audio Engineering Society's International Convention returns to the West Coast for the first time since 2016. The AES Show 2025 will take place at the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center, from Thursday, October 23, through Saturday, October 25, with additional Skill Building Workshops and Tech Tours taking place on Wednesday, October 22. The Exhibit Hall will be open October 23-24, with educational content and sessions running all three days. Registration is now open.

Cambridge Audio Rebranding and New Evo 150 SE Enhanced Streaming Amplifier
Cambridge Audio, the British brand that has been synonymous with high-performance audio for over five decades, announced a rebranding that is intended to reinforce the connection with people and the power of music. The choice was to drop the "Audio" in the new logo, which will be introduced in the latest 2025 products. The first product to feature the single word is the Evo 150 SE, an enhanced special edition of the company's latest streaming amplifier.

StormAudio Launches Core 16+ Compact Immersive Audio Processor
StormAudio, the manufacturer of high-performance audio processors and power amplifiers for the home theater market, has announced the release of the Core 16+, an enhanced version of its acclaimed Core 16 processor. The Core 16+ introduces expanded channel capability and includes their most powerful advanced features as standard. That includes the latest version of Dirac Live, with Active Room Treatment.