Schiit Audio Introduces Updated Yggdrasil+ True Multibit Modular DAC

Schiit Audio announced the availability of Yggdrasil+, its flagship True Multibit DAC, now updated, featuring a choice of D/A converter options, remote control, non-oversampling (NOS) mode, and phase inversion. The Yggdrasil+ combines performance and value in a high-end DAC, together with the peace of mind of a fully modular platform that is ready for the future. Yggdrasil+ prices start at $2,299 and top out at $2,799, depending on D/A and finish options.

How many times we have seen displays full of the cheapest headphones, all wrapped in rigid plastic blisters that go straight into the trash? House of Marley once again leads by example with the launch of their Smile Jamaica Wireless 2 earbuds and the move to 100% recyclable paper fiber packaging. The entire package contents can now be put into the single mixed-paper recycle bin without the need to separate different materials, a common issue when it comes to the recycling process.

In this article, Mike Klasco provides a unique overview of the neodymium supply chain, rare earth minerals trade, and its implications for the loudspeaker industry. Part 1 of the article explored the Chinese influence on the supply chain for rare earth ores and how that might have strategic implications if the trade wars between countries. This article was originally published in The Audio Voice newsletter of August 23 and 30, 2018. An extended version, also divided in two parts, was later published in Voice Coil magazine in November and December 2018.

In this article, Mike Klasco provides a unique overview of the neodymium supply chain, rare earth minerals trade, and its implications for the loudspeaker industry. Neodymium magnets are a sensitive issue for the future, given the trend for escalating trade skirmishes with China. This article was originally published in The Audio Voice newsletter of August 23 and 30, 2018. An extended version, also divided in two parts, was later published in Voice Coil magazine in November and December 2018.

A group of stakeholders from the Rare Earth supply chain met recently for The Global Rare Earth Industry Association Conference, June 25- 27 in Brussels, Belgium. The meeting was also the first General Assembly to establish a global association to develop an integrated, de-risked and sustainable value chain for rare earth materials. The Rare Earth Industry Association (REIA) was founded by 12 organisations, including Italian loudspeaker manufacturer B&C Speakers, which was already part of a European-funded project committed to the reuse of rare-earth magnets.

House of Marley launched round two of their sustainable wireless product line, Positive Vibration 2 Wireless, further expanding within the innovative tech and music space. After launching a new wireless in-ear headphone in July, the brand has developed a new on-ear headphone with Bluetooth 4.2, a new 50mm driver, and increased battery capacity for 10 - 12 hour play time, a technological improvement on the brand's successful Positive Vibration style.

Magic-PCB is an identification solution for the electronic industry from Beta Layout. This unique system for identifying PCBs and electronic devices is fast, copy-proof, reliable and virtually indestructible. This embedded RFID technology is now certified according to the US safety standards for Electronic products.