AKM Announces New Low-Power 32-Bit Stereo DAC with 32% Smaller Footprint

Asahi Kasei Microdevices Corporation (AKM) has started mass production of the AK4333ECB, a 32-bit stereo audio D/A converter (DAC) with built-in headphone amplifier. While the mounting area has been significantly reduced by 32% compared to AKM's previous products, it features Velvet Sound technology for high sound quality. The new low power DAC was developed to enhance mobile and portable wireless designs, such as wireless headphones and VR/AR headsets.

Facebook/Meta believes that adding features to glasses without improving its primary feature of augmenting/protecting eyesight is the "next big thing" - after the metaverse (which is not to be mentioned). In partnership with EssilorLuxottica, Mark Zuckerberg unveiled a new generation of Ray-Ban Meta "smart glasses" that have speakers on the side, and cameras and microphones in the front. Apparently they are better than the others launched before, that no one bought.

As it happens every year, Apple promoted its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) from June 5–9, 2023. Did you notice Apple’s important breakthrough in headset audio design? It was easy to just be dazzled by all the technology involved in the Vision Pro, but this design was described as providing "mind-boggling audio fidelity" by those who tried it. The Vision Pro features an interesting audio system that was the focus for this editorial, together with Adaptive Audio and other important technology innovations.

Extending its engagement in VR/AR applications, Sennheiser has partnered with spatial computing and mixed reality specialist Magic Leap and joined the “Works with Magic Leap” certification program. This partnership consolidates Sennheiser’s presence and thought leadership in spatial audio as it continues to develop innovative audio tools for spatial audio visionaries and content creators.

Veteran gamers know that audio quality can genuinely impact the gaming experience when competing in a highly-charged environment. Serious players require a winning combination of all-encompassing surround sound without the distraction of background noise. French audio software company A-Volute is taking that immersive audio experience to CES 2018 in Las Vegas, where they will debut new Nahimic 3D audio solutions, including the first version of Nahimic for Mac.

The Audio Engineering Society’s Technical Council (AESTC) has formed a new group to advance the science and application of Audio for New Realities. The group will serve the needs of the audio community working in Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality environments. “New realities” covers a whole gamut of application areas including film, games, music, communications, medicine, forensics, simulations, education and virtual tourism.