Audio Exotics brings the art and precision of sonic truth to Hi-End Asia

Source: AE. The Engström Tube Suite will be on display at Hi-End Asia this year.

Audio Exotics (AE), a curator of ultra-high-end audio experiences, will be participating for the first time at the Hi-End Asia International Audio Visual Show, unveiling two system philosophies that embody its pursuit of musical purity, emotional truth, and the art of silence - according to AE, “Silence is not the absence of sound — it is the canvas upon which music breathes”.

The Engström Tube Suite with APL technology and Cessaro Horns features Lars 3 power amplifiers, a Monica preamplifier, and a M-Phono stage, paired with the APL Tube DAC and Streamer and voiced through Cessaro Horn loudspeakers. Together, the Engström–APL–Cessaro ensemble defines the art of purity: the natural liquidity of tubes, the serenity of design, and the living poetry of music in motion.

Engström embodies the rare Scandinavian synthesis of technical mastery and poetic minimalism. Each amplifier is designed to be both an instrument of power and a sculpture of sound and form. Hand-built in Sweden, the Lars 3 and Monica exude tonal refinement that balances warmth and transparency, delivering a sound described by reviewers as “liquid, dimensional, and emotionally luminous”. Their aesthetics — glass, copper, and wood in architectural harmony — evoke serenity and purity.

The APL Tube DAC and Streamer, crafted by Alex Peychev Laboratories (APL) in Bulgaria, continues this tradition of emotional digital playback. Its fully discrete tube output stage, handmatched components, and proprietary digital topology transform bits into breath. Anchoring the system are Cessaro Horn loudspeakers, hand-built in Germany, whose dynamics and tonal realism make music feel physically alive, AE said.

The Göbel High End & JMF Solid-State Suite and the Stellavox IDEM mono amplifier expresses the opposite pole of Audio Exotics’ philosophy — the precision of silence and the architecture of control.

Göbel High End loudspeakers from Germany translate material science into emotion. Their proprietary bending-wave driver technology and resonance-optimised construction unveil textures and micro-details that transcend traditional loudspeaker boundaries.

Driving them are JMF Audio electronics from France — precision-crafted amplifiers and converters born from professional mastering heritage. Assembled by hand in the Jura mountains, each JMF component is designed for neutrality, power, and silence. Their amplifiers reveal the full dynamic energy of a recording while preserving the intimacy of a human voice or the decay of a string.

The Pink Faun Ultra 2.16 music transport from the Netherlands anchors the digital stage with ultra-low-noise linear power supplies, OCXO clocking, and modular I²S architecture for true-time playback. Feeding into the Synästec DAC from Germany — a design that marries FPGA architecture with analogue finesse — the result is extraordinary transparency and tonal depth.

Touraj Moghaddam, founder of Vertere Acoustics and one of the visionaries of modern turntable design, will personally present his turntables in both systems. His presence bridges the tactile beauty of analogue with AE’s philosophy of curated listening — a testament that music, when faithfully rendered, unites all forms of technology and craft.

Details

Hi-End Asia will be held from 23 October to 25 October 2025 at level 3, Suntec Convention & Exhibition Centre. Get tickets from www.hiendasia.com

Audio Exotics has sponsored a premium lucky draw prize for the event, an Ediscreation Fiber Box Mk. II, valued at S$2,500. This advanced fibre isolation system is designed to deliver cleaner, purer signal transmission for the ultimate audiophile experience.

All ticket holders are automatically entered into the lucky draw.

*DAC stands for digital-to-analogue converter; and FPGA for field-programmable gate array. 

Sony launches two premium wireless speakers

• Ambient room-filling sound with Immersive Audio Enhancement and 360 Reality Audio

• Sound calibration providing effortless adjustment for optimum audio performance

• Smart and easy operation for seamless music enjoyment

Sony has announced the SRS-RA5000 and SRS-RA3000, its latest premium wireless speakers. Equipped with Sony’s unique spatial sound technologies and packed with smart features, the speakers deliver sound that envelop the listener in all directions.

According to Sony, most speakers spread sound horizontally, whereas the RA5000 and RA3000 diffuse sound both horizontally (wall-to-wall) and vertically (floor-to-ceiling) with its Immersive Audio Enhancement and 360 Reality Audio content playback technologies.

Immersive Audio Enhancement transforms two-channel stereo tracks into ambient room-filling sound while 360 Reality Audio tracks incorporate three-dimensional sound location data, allowing the RA5000 and RA3000 to make use of the speaker’s structure more effectively. 360 Reality Audio can be enjoyed through compatible music streaming services. Listeners can currently access approximately 4,000 songs in 360 Reality Audio¹ from artistes like Alicia Keys, Lil Nas X, and Megan Thee Stallion.

The RA5000 features a trio of up-firing speakers that spread music vertically, while the three speakers in the middle spread sound horizontally. These are complemented by a subwoofer which helps to flood the room with rich, deep bass. The speaker unit incorporates neodymium magnets help to enable its compact size, while a mica-reinforced cellular diaphragm gives strength to the structure.

The humidity-resistant² RA3000 achieves omnidirectional sound with deep bass by using a full-range speaker, an omni-diffuser that spreads sound throughout the room in every direction and a dual passive radiator to produce deep bass. The speaker’s overlapping beam tweeters form a wavefront that goes upward, which delivers sound vertically. This helps fill the space with ambient room-filling sound, making sure that the RA3000 hits the sweet spot wherever the listener is in the room.

Source: Sony. The SRS-RA5000 (left) and SRS-RA3000 (right) premium wireless speakers.

Through sound calibration, the RA5000 and RA3000 considers the unique acoustic profile of a space and optimises its output accordingly. Begin sound calibration by pressing the Immersive Audio Enhancement button on the RA5000, or wait while the RA3000 auto adjusts in the background as audio is played. The RA3000 recalibrates automatically after it is restarted.

Tracks will never seem too loud or muted. The RA5000 and RA3000 will analyse each track and automatically play them back at a consistent volume.The RA5000 is also Hi-Res Audio certified for superior sound quality through High-Resolution Audio playback.

The RA5000 and RA3000 work with Bluetooth-compatible smartphones, laptops or tablets. Music can be directly streamed in high quality over a Wi-Fi network. These wireless speakers also provide an option of an analogue connection. The RA5000 has an additional option of using one-touch NFC to connect compatible smart devices. The RA5000 and RA3000 are also compatible with Spotify Connect and have Chromecast built-in for added convenience and flexibility.

The RA5000 and RA3000 is voice-compatible with a Google Assistant⁴-enabled device, and with Amazon Alexa-enabled devices. The speakers can also be grouped with multiple compatible devices for multiroom playback using the Google Home app or Amazon Alexa app. Play different songs in different rooms, or the same music in all rooms at the same time.

Control the RA5000 and RA3000 from a smartphone with the Sony | Music Center app. Users can manage playlists, adjust equaliser (EQ) settings or enable/disable the Immersive Audio Enhancement and Auto Volume features with the app.

Enjoy lower latency wireless connectivity with compatible BRAVIA televisions via a Bluetooth connection⁵.

Details:

The SRS-RA5000 and SRS-RA3000 will be available in selected countries in Asia Pacific from January 2021. A free 360 Reality Audio service trial coupon⁶ is included with every purchase of the RA5000 or RA3000.

1 Requires download of Sony | Music Center app. Subscription to compatible online music service and third party terms, conditions, account and fees may apply. Compatible services may not be available in certain countries/regions.

2 The humidity-resistant performance of the product is based on our measurements under a certain temperature/humidity level. (35°C/35%-95%)

3 The product is not waterproof. Do not use the product near water and do not expose it to dripping or splashing. Do not use the product in a location close to a bathtub, kitchen sink, laundry tub, swimming pool, etc.

4 Google Assistant is available in selected languages and countries/regions.

5 Wireless connection via Bluetooth, BRAVIA supporting Bluetooth A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) is needed. Applicable TV models.

6 The 360 Reality Audio free trial subscription offer is available until 31 December 2021. This promotion entitles participants to a three-month free trial subscription to one of the participating 360 Reality Audio music services available in your country as listed in the promotion redemption pages. Participating services may not be available in certain countries/areas – please check the music service website for availability. Find out more.

Huawei launches wireless audio speaker

The Huawei Consumer Business Group has announced a number of consumer products in addition to a new iteration of its flagship P series smartphones, including the HUAWEI Sound X, a new wireless HUAWEI speaker.

The HUAWEI Sound X is an all-new Huawei-Devialet joint wireless speaker that the company says will revolutionise high-end acoustic technology. Devialet is a global audio brand that is known for premium hi-fi products. The company produces power and performance within a limited-sized body, while providing distortion-free sound even at maximum volume levels and low-pitched vibrations that can literally be felt in the listener's bones.
As the first top-notch wireless speaker product from the Chinese telecommunications giant, the HUAWEI Sound X marries first-rate aesthetics with exquisite craftsmanship, and has already been recognised by the 2020 iF Design Award committee for its appearance. The main, glossy portion of the body is crafted with an advanced non-conductive vacuum electroplating process to ensure quality signal transmission and reception. The lower portion uses a seamless cover that further facilitates free, lossless transmission.

The HUAWEI Sound X comes equipped with Devialet's patented signal-processing SAM (speaker active matching) technology. SAM introduces an efficient compensation algorithm that is capable of adapting output signal to match the specific characteristics of the speaker and minimise sound distortion.

The HUAWEI Sound X has twin subwoofers that deliver 60 W of bass, while remaining compact. The Push-Push structure places the two high-power speakers symmetrically, so that their back-wave vibrations cancel each other out. This means even when the walls are shaking from the bass, the Sound X body remains cool.

The HUAWEI Sound X plays audio via Wi-Fi, a process that leads to much less data compression, and fewer lag or latency issues than Bluetooth transmission. That is built on HUAWEI’s self-developed technology, EMUI 10.1 Multi-Device Control Panel which is similar to Apple’s Airplay. 

The HUAWEI Sound X is designed for seamless interaction with smart devices. Gently tapping the phone against the HUAWEI Sound X transmits audio to the speaker, while calls can be answered on the HUAWEI Sound X in call mode with a tap of the hand.

Details: Pricing and availability to be announced at a later date.

X-mini launches new portable audio solutions at CES

- X-mini INFINITI S offers signature 360° 3D surround sound for immersive audio

- X-mini EVOLVE 2 is the second-generation wireless hybrid speaker headphones with aptX technology 

- New line of IPX7 waterproof portable speakers

X-mini, makers of portable speakers and a specialist in portable audio innovation, is unveiling a range of new audio devices at this year’s CES. The brand, which launched in 2007 with iconic capsule speakers, is instrumental in pioneering the portable speaker category.

Audio manufacturers need to keep up with demand for music wherever and whenever consumers want it, said Ryan Lee, Co-founder of X-mini. “As market leaders in innovative audio design and engineering, we strive to break new (ground) constantly and provide our users with great audio solutions that meets their lifestyles.”

X-mini INFINITI S

The X-mini INFINITI S is a compact 360° 3D surround sound speaker. Housing four drivers, one dedicated subwoofer, and built-in dual pressure air compression (DPAC) and digital signal processor (DSP) audio technologies, the X-mini INFINITI S is designed to disperse immersive high quality sound in all directions. It has a removable genuine leather strap, a HDMI port, and a USB Type-C port. 

X-mini EVOLVE 2 

Source: X-mini.
The X-mini EVOLVE 2.

The second-generation X-mini EVOLVE 2 features dual Bluetooth and AUX-in connectivity. The speaker headphones have built-in swivel and leather ear pads with memory foam to improve noise isolation and add comfort. The hybrid speaker headphones feature quad drivers and a bass port for enhanced audio in speaker mode. The headset also includes aptX audio technology, for improved audio and video synchronisation over Bluetooth.

X-mini XOUNDBAR W

The X-mini XOUNDBAR W IPX7-certified ultra portable Bluetooth speaker is made to fit in pockets. Housing dual 36mm audio drivers for full-range stereo sound, the speakers can be submerged in water for up to 1m for a maximum of 30 minutes. 

X-mini KAI X1 W

  

Source: X-mini.
The KAI X1 W.

The X-mini KAI X1 W comes with a large 50mm driver for quality sound. The IPX7-certified rating means this portable speaker can also be submerged underwater for 30 minutes to a depth of 1 m. With an in-built camera mount, the X-mini KAI X1 W can be fixed to a bicycle handle or tripod for a fuss-free outdoor audio experience. 

Source: Popsical, X-mini. X-mini and Popsical to offer compact karaoke speakers that work with Popsical's app.

X-mini further announced a partnership with Popsical, the smart karaoke system provider. The collaboration leverages on the synergies of the X-mini's audio technologies and the content and karaoke streaming expertise of Popsical to produce a series of compact karaoke speakers. A prototype compact speaker for karaoke lovers was showcased at CES. 

The speakers will offer features such as track request, track list queue, updated seasonal and favourite playlists using the Popsical app, available on the App Store and from the Google Play store. Content on the app can be enjoyed with a 24-hour subscription package at S$3.99, or monthly subscription of S$9.99 model to cover licensing rights.

“X-mini is a leader in bringing big sound from small form factor devices, and Popsical – a passionate advocate of a fun and seamless karaoke experience through both hardware and software. From this partnership, we are looking to develop a range of karaoke audio products that sound, look and deliver a great karaoke experience in any room,” said Faruq Marican, the CEO and Co-founder of Popsical. 

Details:

The X-mini INFINITI S will be available in Q318, at a suggested retail price of US$399.

The X-mini EVOLVE 2 will be available in Q218, at a suggested retail price of US$149. 

The X-mini XOUNDBAR W will be available in Q218, at a suggested retail price of US$45.90. 

The X-mini KAI X1 W will be available in Q218, at a suggested retail price of US$54.90. 

The karaoke speakers will be available in Singapore in Q118 at S$399, with international distribution to roll out over the year.

Hashtag: #CES2018

Nakamichi launches two Bluetooth speakers

Nakamichi, the Japanese high fidelity audio company, has launched two new Bluetooth speakers – the Nakamichi Music One+ Wireless Bluetooth speaker and the Nakamichi Music Element Wireless Bluetooth speaker.

Source: Nakamichi. The Nakamichi Music One+ Bluetooth speaker.

The Nakamichi Music One+ mimicks the design of a table lamp. The smallest audio details are captured through a custom-tuned digital signal processor (DSP).

Product features and specifications:

• Hands-free speaker phone function;
• AUX 3.5mm stereo port;
• Bluetooth technology for music streaming;
• Simple pairing Near Field Communication (NFC);
• Frequency response: 80Hz to 20KHz;
• Accessories included: Audio cable, power adapter, remote control;
• Dimensions: Approximately 288mm x 187mm x 188mm.

Source: Nakamichi. The Nakamichi Music Element Bluetooth speaker.

The rectangular Nakamichi Music Element Bluetooth speaker hints of a vintage radio box, but with the modern innards. The Music Element adopts Nakamichi’s revolutionary TAIKO Bass Booster. a unique arrangement of the frequencies in each audio note. The speaker also comes with a handy USB charging function.

Product features and specifications:

• USB recharging mobile phone and digital device;
• Hands-free speaker phone function;
• Voice promote and easy to pair;
• Simple pairing near field communication (NFC);
• Bluetooth technology for music streaming;
• AUX 3.5mm stereo port;
• MicroSD slot;
• Accessories included: Audio cable, power adapter;
• Frequency response: 50Hz – 20KHz;
• Dimensions: Approximately 350mm x 117mm x 160mm.

Interested?

The Nakamichi Music One+ Wireless Bluetooth speaker retails for S$299 with GST. The Nakamichi Music Element Wireless Bluetooth speaker retails for S$239 with GST.

Both Nakamichi speakers are available at all Sprint-Cass outlets, select Challenger stores, Mobile City, Million Tech, Mustafa Centre, and SE IT Solutions. For the full list of stores, check Facebook

Apple recalling Beats speakers, giving refunds

Apple yesterday announced a voluntary recall of Beats Pill XL speakers, including a refund for customers. Apple has determined that, in rare cases, the battery in the Beats Pill XL may overheat and pose a fire safety risk, the company said.

The recall does not affect any other Beats or Apple products, and only applies to the Beats speaker pictured below.

"Because customer safety is the company’s top priority, Apple is asking customers to stop using their Beats Pill XL speakers," Apple said in a statement on its website.

Beats Pill XL speaker owners should visit www.apple.com/support/beats-pillxl-recall for details about how to return their product to Apple, and how to receive an Apple Store credit or electronic payment of US$325, or equivalent in local currency. The recall is only done through the Web, and owners can choose their country through a drop-down menu on the left of the screen.

The Beats Pill XL was introduced by Beats by Dre in November 2013. Apple acquired Beats in 2014. The Beats Pill XL can be identified by the Beats “b” logo on the speaker grille and the words “beats pill XL” on the handle.

posted from Bloggeroid

Bluetooth speakers, headphones from Bose make connections easier

Bose has announced two additions to its SoundLink family of mobile audio solutions: the SoundLink Color Bluetooth speaker, the most affordable SoundLink speaker from Bose, and SoundLink Bluetooth on-ear headphones, the first on-ear Bluetooth headphones from Bose. 

The SoundLink Color Bluetooth speaker is a completely new SoundLink design. It weighs 1.25 pounds (567g), and measures 5” wide, 2.1” deep and 5.3” high. Bose combined exclusive dual-opposing passive radiators with two high-efficiency transducers for full-range sound, including deep, low-note performance. Essential controls are on the product, and a 3.5mm stereo auxiliary input is integrated on the back of the enclosure.

The SoundLink Color Bluetooth speaker connects wirelessly to a smartphone, tablet or other Bluetooth enabled device, and uses voice prompts - available in several languages - to simplify setup, and identify which source is connected. If it is turned off, the speaker remembers the last eight devices it was paired with when powered back on. It then automatically connects to the two most recently used, such as the iPhone, iPad, Android, or other Bluetooth-enabled device. 

The SoundLink Color Bluetooth speaker runs on a lithium-ion battery for up to eight hours, and fully recharges with most USB power sources in about three hours. Its exhaustively-tested housing is made of elastomer and plastic and comes in black, white, blue, red and mint.

The new SoundLink on-ear Bluetooth headphones are lighter and more comfortable than conventional Bluetooth headphones, the company said, and deliver all the audio performance of a Bose wired headphone. Bose Active Equalization and TriPort technology combine for smoother, more balanced sound. Mid-high frequencies are natural, and low-frequencies are detailed and full. 

A new two-microphone system rejects distractions like wind, so callers can hear what you’re saying more, and the sounds around you less. Adaptive Audio Adjustment technology automatically changes volume based on speech level and ambient noise, letting wearers move from a quiet environment to a noisier one without missing a word.

Just like the new speakers, the SoundLink on-ear Bluetooth headphones connect up to two devices at a time and lets the wearer switch between them. Users can for example watch a video from a tablet while staying connected to A smartphone. Simple voice prompts identify who’s calling, battery status and source connection. With commands on the earcup, wearers are in control: turn it on and off, answer and end a call, adjust volume, play/pause, or control tracks, without using your phone.

The SoundLink on-ear Bluetooth headphones weigh only 5.5 ounces (156g). Designed to be worn comfortably for hours, they feature soft ear cushions and a headband pad made of fabric used in high-end automotive applications. To stow away, they fold smoothly for compact storage in a matching case. The SoundLink Bluetooth headphones come in black or white, and charge easily with an included USB cable for up to 15 hours of listening, or up to two hours after a 15-minute charge.

The SoundLink Color Bluetooth speaker and the SoundLink on-ear Bluetooth headphones will be sold* for US$129.95 and US$249.95, respectively. The SoundLink Bluetooth headphones are already available*, while pre-orders for the SoundLink Color Bluetooth speaker will be available* starting September 25, 2014. All SoundLink products are sold* at Bose retail stores, Bose.com, and at authorised Bose dealers.


*Images from Bose. Prices and availability varies across countries.