Dirac AudioIQ Now Supported by Asahi Kasei Microdevices’ Automotive DSPs
Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) and Swedish digital audio processing pioneer Dirac have announced a partnership to integrate Dirac’s suite of software-defined smart acoustics solutions, AudioIQ, into AKM’s line of automotive audio digital signal processors (DSPs), including the flagship AK7709. The partnership provides OEMs and Tier 1 partners with a scalable suite of advanced algorithms as an embedded turnkey solution, significantly reducing tuning time while enhancing sound quality within vehicle interiors.
ESS Technology Announces New Flagship SMART High-Resolution Analog-to-Digital Converters
ESS Technology has announced three new flagship Sabre Pro Smart Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADCs) based on the company’s patented Hyperstream IV ADC architecture. The new devices target both professional and consumer audio applications and include the ES9823MPRO and ES9823PRO 2-channel ADCs and the 4-channel ES9843PRO ADC. The Sabre ES9823MPRO is the first ADC to incorporate the new FOQUS by MQA Labs architecture, eliminating unnatural pre-ringing and post-ringing of impulse responses.
Apple CarPlay Ultra Showcases New Approach in Automotive Software Integration
Many automakers still struggle with dashboard software and user interfaces for the car, leading drivers to mostly ignore the features that were painstakingly implemented at enormous cost. This also encourages the use of CarPlay or Android Auto display and controller solutions. Apple designed CarPlay Ultra to offer a deeper level of software integration with the car’s systems, with a unique look and feel for each automaker. The first CarPlay Ultra integration is now available from luxury brand Aston Martin.
Sony WH-1000XM6 Noise Cancellation Headphones Revealed. What Changed Three Years Later?
In May 2022, Sony launched the WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones, which immediately reclaimed the position as a market reference in active noise cancelling headphones and personal audio. Three years later, the new WH-1000XM6 model, powered by next-gen processors, 12 microphones, and intelligent algorithms, combines the best noise canceling into a new seamless, foldable design. This time, guided by world-renowned mastering audio engineers, Sony expects the WH-1000XM6 headphones to set a new standard for music lovers, travelers, and music professionals.
WiiM Expands Lineup with WiiM Amp Ultra Smart Amplifier
WiiM introduced its most powerful and refined streaming amplifier to date: the WiiM Amp Ultra. Housed in an aluminum chassis and featuring a vibrant 3.5” glass-covered touchscreen, the WiiM Amp Ultra delivers 100W per channel at 8 ohms, with ultra-low distortion. The WiiM Amp Ultra builds on the streaming power of the existing Amp Pro model, and combines it with the premium display experience introduced in the WiiM Ultra streamer, adding more output options for home theater applications.
NAD Electronics Introduces Next-Generation Masters M33 V2 and M23 V2 Amplifiers
NAD Electronics announced the release of two updates to its Masters Series: the M33 V2 BluOS Streaming Amplifier and the M23 V2 Stereo Power Amplifier. These next-generation models build on the legacy of the original M33 and M23 with cutting-edge digital architecture, refined sonic performance, and enhanced connectivity. An upgrade that expands on the successful models that have proven to be favorites for custom integrators, premium audio dealers, and discerning listeners.
Test Bench Dayton Audio’s UMII10-22 Ultimax II 10” Subwoofer
This Test Bench characterizes the Dayton Audio UMII10-22 Ultimax II 10" Subwoofer, a recent example of the upgraded, high-performance designs that succeeded the brand’s original Ultimax subwoofer line. Available for now in four diameters (18", 12", 10", and 8"), the common feature set for the new line includes a large aluminum shorting ring and aluminum pole sleeve for lower magnetic distortion, a lightweight and rigid woven carbon fiber cone assembly, high Xmax, with a frame and motor designed with extensive thermal venting, all optimized for compact sealed enclosures.
Fresh From the Bench: mh acoustics Eigenmike em64, Sixth-Order Ambisonics Microphone and Software Suite
A unique insight into the future of microphone technology, this article reviews the Eigenmike em64, a sixth-order Ambisonics microphone with Dante connectivity, extended with a comprehensive recording and decoding software suite. Updating its previous Eigenmike em32 model, the company introduced a state-of-the-art higher order Ambisonics capture tool to the market. The patented design combines microphone programmable gain preamplifiers, 24-bit A/D conversion and microphone calibration, all integrated.
WiiM Expands Audio Ecosystem with WiiM Sound Smart Speaker and WiiM Sub Pro Subwoofer
WiiM is on a roll, delivering simple, affordable, and high-performance products that directly meet the needs of consumers in the streaming age. The brand created by Linkplay now announces a surprising expansion into two new product categories with the debut of the WiiM Sound and WiiM Sub Pro, its first-ever smart speaker and wireless subwoofer. This expands WiiM's ecosystem to deliver a further connected, personalized, and complete audio experience throughout the home.
Sonos Introduces AI-Powered Speech Enhancement App
Designed in collaboration with the UK’s Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID), addressing the needs of people with hearing loss, but not only, the new Sonos speech enhancement solution is now available on the Sonos Arc Ultra soundbar. Supported by an AI-Powered app, the speech enhancement processing clarifies dialogue for all those struggling to catch what a character just said on TV, movies, or shows.