Showing posts with label audio. Show all posts
Showing posts with label audio. Show all posts

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

HTC One gets camera update, improves HDR images and audio recording



Despite recent strong competition, several Engadget editors' love affair with the HTC One continues unabated. We've mused plenty on its Ultrapixel camera, but we're not going to refuse improvements, which is good, because that's exactly what HTC's offering its European customers. An incoming software update for existing handsets promises better noise reduction on slow-motion videos, improved dynamic range from HDR shots and enhanced audio recording on your Zoe clips. Naturally, there's some performance and stability improvements included, if you're not all about the imaging. According to SlashGear, the software refresh will arrive on European handsets this week, though we're still waiting for it to land on our own UK device.


Source: SlashGear

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Google Glass support page lists tech specs for camera, battery, audio and display



The trickle of Google Glass details (they're shipping, the API is available and an Android companion app is live) has suddenly turned into a flood tonight, as 9to5Google points out a support page listing the device's technical specs. While we knew some bits about its capabilities (some of which were explained in a patent application), the official list reveals its display will be equivalent to a 25-inch HD screen viewed from eight feet away, while it's camera does 5MP stills and 720p video. It packs 16GB of storage onboard, 12GB of which are available to the wearer. Audio is transferred via a bone conduction transducer, while its wireless capabilities include Bluetooth and WiFi 802.11 b/g. There's a micro-USB charger included with it and the battery is expected to last a "full day of typical use" although video and Google Hangouts will drain it more quickly. Also published is an FAQ for things like "Is it ok to go scuba diving with Glass?" (A: No, jackhammering is also probably out, while laws concerning mobile devices and driving may rule out use behind the wheel as well), covering things any Explorers should know before their headset arrives.


Via: 9to5Google


Source: Google Glass Tech Specs, FAQ

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Corsair pops the question, acquires Scotland-based Simple Audio

Simple Audio acquired in multi-million dollar deal

Simple Audio®, a networked audio company based in Scotland, today announced that it has been acquired by leading US-based PC enthusiast hardware company Corsair® in a multi-million dollar deal. The deal marks another positive chapter in the Simple Audio story and puts the company in a strong position to extend its reach globally.

Simple Audio's world-class engineering and product development teams will continue to develop and market the company's range of music streaming products from its offices in Glasgow, Scotland.

Simple Audio released its first range of networked audio products last year into UK and European markets where the young company quickly built a strong reputation for superior sound quality and exceptional product design.

Peter Murphy, Founder and CEO of Simple Audio commented:

"When I started Simple Audio the aim was to make high quality digital music accessible to more people. Now the company is in a much stronger position to make this a reality. Corsair's extensive resources and worldwide distribution infrastructure will undoubtedly help Simple Audio achieve its ambitions, including plans to launch our products in the USA and Asia during 2013. We're delighted to be a part of Corsair and very excited about the future."

Corsair, with half a billion dollars in annual revenue, has built an excellent reputation for designing and manufacturing innovative, high-performance components and peripherals for PC enthusiasts and gamers.

Andy Paul, President and CEO of Corsair commented:

"We have followed Simple Audio as a potential investment opportunity since 2010 and we are extremely impressed by their vision of HD digital music in the post-iPod era. Their high quality, high-performance Roomplayer system demystifies and simplifies the process of playing digital music throughout the home. We believe now is the right time to invest in the fast-growing digital music space and are delighted to help Simple Audio bring their incredible vision into reality and to music lovers around the world."

Simple Audio received investment in the early stages of its growth from the Edinburgh based investor syndicate Par Equity and the Scottish Co-Investment Fund from the Scottish Investment Bank, a division of Scottish Enterprise. This funding was paramount in helping to support the company's product development plans.


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Friday, January 25, 2013

Apogee revamps One and Duet audio interfaces for iOS and Mac, updates Quartet to match

Apogee Electronics introduces all new "ONE", audio interface & microphone featuring iPad & Mac compatibility, upgraded sound quality and new Maestro control app for iOS

Anaheim, California, January 24, 2013 - Apogee Electronics is pleased to introduce the completely redesigned ONE, a 2 IN x 2 OUT USB audio interface and microphone. The all new ONE is the first studio quality audio interface and microphone that makes a direct digital connection to Apple's iPad (iPhone, iPod touch) and Mac. ONE features Apogee's Maestro control software, iOS device charging, optional battery power for portable recording with iPad and professional sound quality. ONE is the all-in-one solution that makes it easy for musicians, songwriters, recording engineers, film makers, audiophiles, and anyone else to enjoy professional sound quality on iPad and Mac.

ONE offers three input options; a built-in omni-directional condenser microphone, XLR input for dynamic, condenser or ribbon microphones, and 1/4" instrument input for electric guitars, keyboards or any instrument with an electric pick-up. An upgrade from the original design, ONE now has the ability to record two inputs simultaneously (instrument plus built-in microphone or external microphone). The updated AD/DA converters and mic preamps deliver best-in-class, studio quality sound and allow you to capture and playback your recordings with incredible clarity and detail.

ONE's audiophile quality headphone amplifier/DAC is a favorite for enhanced music listening on Mac. Now ONE delivers the same hi-fi quality sound to iPod touch, iPhone and iPad users for listening to streaming radio and music libraries with incredible clarity and detail.

ONE's built-in condenser microphone is a unique feature allowing anyone to record with incredible results and without the need for an external microphone. This paired with the option of connecting to iPod touch, iPhone or iPad and battery power enables studio-quality recordings to be created in any location.

"We have completely redesigned ONE, incorporating highly anticipated features; iPad compatibility, simultaneous recording of guitar and a microphone, enhanced sound quality, and a much desired metal chassis," says Apogee CEO and Co-Founder Betty Bennett. "This is an innovative interface, ideal for the musician who wants an all-in-one solution they can count on for ease of use and professional studio quality results, no matter where they are. We're excited to welcome this next generation of a classic Apogee product and we know our customers will love it."

Apple's iPad has revolutionized music creation with an intuitive touch interface and a universe of powerful and very affordable music apps. As a studio quality microphone and audio interface, ONE delivers key features to this new paradigm. Apogee's Maestro software for iOS lets you control ONE's inputs, mic preamp, outputs and set up low latency monitoring. ONE's DC power charges iPad while in use so recording is not interrupted. The option of battery power for ONE allows for truly portable professional recording.

When used with iPad or an iOS device, ONE works with any Core Audio compliant app like GarageBand, Auria and MultiTrack. For recording on a Mac, ONE works with Logic, Pro Tools, GarageBand, Ableton Live and any Mac Core Audio compliant application.

ONE for iPad and Mac - Highlights

First studio quality audio interface and microphone for iPad
New circuitry, mic capsule and upgraded sound quality
Redesigned die cast aluminum chassis
Direct digital connection to iPod touch, iPhone, iPad
Works with new iPhone 5, iPad (4th generation), iPad mini
(Lighting adapter required - Sold separately)
Works with GarageBand, MultiTrack, Spotify; Any Core Audio compatible app on iOS
Works with GarageBand, Logic, Pro Tools, Ableton, iTunes; Any Core Audio compatible app on Mac
Low latency monitoring, complete input/output control with Apogee's Maestro software (iOS & Mac)
DC power supplies charge to iPod touch, iPhone or iPad
Optional battery operation for remote recording on iPad (2 AA batteries not included)
USB 2.0 audio with 24-bit/96kHz A/D and D/A conversion
Built-in omnidirectional condenser microphone (mic stand adapter included)
2 Analog Inputs (XLR microphone and 1/4" instrument connector on breakout cable)
Record up to 2 inputs at a time (instrument + internal microphone or external microphone)
1 1/8" stereo output for headphones or powered speakers
Legendary Apogee sound quality
Designed in California - Made in the U.S.A.

System Requirements

Mac OS:

Computer: Intel Mac 1.5GHz or faster
Memory: 2 GB RAM minimum, 4 GB recommended
OS: 10.7.5 or greater
Connection and power: Any available USB port on a Mac
USB bus powered; DC power optional
(DC power supply included)

iOS:

iOS version: 5.1 and later
Connection: 30-pin dock connector
Power supply or two AA batteries required
(Batteries not included)
iOS device compatibility (Lightning connector)

iPod touch* (5th generation)
iPhone 5*
iPad* (4th generation)
iPad mini*
* Requires Apple's Lightning to 30-pin adapter. Sold separately.

iOS device compatibility (30-pin connector)

iPod touch (4th generation)
iPhone 4S
iPhone 4
iPad (3rd generation)
iPad 2
iPad

Price: $349
Availability: March 2013

Apogee Electronics introduces new Duet featuring iPad & Mac compatibility, MIDI I/O and new Maestro control app for iOS

Anaheim, California, January 24, 2013 - Apogee Electronics is pleased to introduce Duet for iPad and Mac, a 2 input, 4 output USB audio interface. The new Duet is the first professional stereo audio interface that makes a direct digital connection to Apple's iPad (iPhone, iPod touch) and Mac. Duet features Apogee's Maestro control software, iOS device charging, MIDI connectivity and professional sound quality. Duet is the ideal personal studio interface for stereo music recording, mixing and audiophile-quality listening on iPad and Mac.

First introduced in 2007, the original Duet was a 2 IN x 2 OUT FireWire Audio Interface for Mac and became one of the most popular audio interfaces of all time, starting a home studio revolution and winning many industry awards and accolades. Duet received an upgrade in May of 2011 when Duet 2 took its place with a new 2 IN x 4 OUT format, redesigned AD/DA conversion and mic preamps, and USB 2.0 Mac connectivity. The new Duet for iPad and Mac builds on this legacy by offering the same professional quality as the Duet 2 for the iPad based personal studio.

"Apogee has pioneered professional digital recording on iPad and iOS devices with products like JAM, our studio quality guitar input, and MiC, the first studio quality digital microphone for iPad and iPhone. We are now taking the next step, offering a range of professional multi-channel recording solutions for iPad and all iOS devices," says Apogee CEO and Co-Founder Betty Bennett. "Enabling amazing products like Duet to be directly connected to the increasingly powerful iPad and all other iOS devices, seamlessly integrated with apps like GarageBand and Auria, controlled with our Maestro software allows you take mobile music creation to the next level. It truly is a new frontier for the personal studio and we're proud to be at the forefront."

Apple's iPad has revolutionized music creation with an intuitive touch interface and a universe of powerful and very affordable music apps. Duet delivers key features to this new paradigm that bring professional stereo audio recording to iPad for the first time. Apogee's Maestro software for iOS lets you control Duet's inputs, mic preamps, outputs and set up low latency monitoring. Duet's DC power charges iPad while in use so recording is not interrupted. Duet provides plenty of power for studio headphones, microphones and MIDI keyboards. In addition, Duet accepts and provides professional audio level (ie. balanced, +4 dBu reference level).

When used with iPad or an iOS device, Duet works with any Core Audio compliant app like GarageBand, Auria and MultiTrack. For recording on a Mac, Duet works with Logic, Pro Tools, GarageBand, Ableton Live and any Mac Core Audio compliant application.

Duet for iPad and Mac - Highlights

First professional stereo audio interface for iPad
Direct digital connection to iPod touch, iPhone, iPad
Works with new iPhone 5, iPad (4th generation), iPad mini
(Apple's Lighting to 30-pin adapter required - Sold separately)
Works with GarageBand, Auria, MultiTrack; Any Core Audio compatible app on iOS
Works with GarageBand, Logic, Pro Tools, Ableton; Any Core Audio compatible app on Mac
Low latency monitoring, complete input/output control with Apogee's Maestro software (iOS & Mac)
MIDI input/output (USB-A type connector)
DC power supplies charge to iPod touch, iPhone or iPad
USB 2.0 audio with 24-bit/192kHz A/D and D/A conversion
2 Analog inputs with world-class mic preamps and selectable 48v phantom power
2 Balanced analog line outputs
1 Independent 1/4" stereo headphone output
Legendary Apogee sound quality
Designed in California - Made in the U.S.A.

System Requirements

Mac OS:

Computer: Intel Mac 1.5GHz or faster
Memory: 2 GB RAM minimum, 4 GB recommended
OS: 10.6.8, 10.7.4 or greater
Connection and power: Any available USB port on a Mac
USB bus powered; DC power optional
(DC power supply included)

iOS:

iOS version: 5.1 and later
Connection: 30-pin dock connector
DC Power supply included
iOS device compatibility (Lightning connector)

iPod touch* (5th generation)
iPhone 5*
iPad* (4th generation)
iPad mini*
* Requires Apple's Lightning to 30-pin adapter. Sold separately.

iOS device compatibility (30-pin connector)

iPod touch (4th generation)
iPhone 4S
iPhone 4
iPad (3rd generation)
iPad 2
iPad

Price: $595
Availability: February 2013

Apogee Electronics announces iPad compatibility for Quartet USB audio interface and new Maestro control app for iOS

Anaheim, California, January 24, 2013 - Apogee Electronics is pleased to announce iPad compatibility for Quartet, a 4 input, 8 output USB audio interface. Quartet is the first professional multi-channel audio interface that makes a direct digital connection to Apple's iPad (iPhone, iPod touch) and Mac. Quartet for iPad and Mac features Apogee's Maestro control software, iOS device charging, MIDI connectivity, advanced monitor control and professional sound quality. Quartet is the ideal studio control center for multi-channel music recording and mixing on iPad and Mac.

"Apogee has pioneered professional digital recording on iPad and iOS devices with products like JAM, our studio quality guitar input, and MiC, the first studio quality digital microphone for iPad & iOS. We are now taking the next step, offering a range of professional multi-channel recording solutions for iPad and all iOS devices," says Apogee CEO and Co-Founder Betty Bennett.

"Enabling amazing products like Quartet to be directly connected to the increasingly powerful iPad and all other iOS devices, seamlessly integrated with apps like GarageBand and Auria, controlled with our Maestro software allows you take mobile music creation to the next level. It truly is a new frontier for the personal studio and we're proud to be at the forefront."

Apple's iPad has revolutionized music creation with an intuitive touch interface and a universe of powerful and very affordable music apps. Quartet delivers key features to this new paradigm that bring professional multi-channel audio recording to iPad for the first time. Apogee's Maestro software for iOS lets you control Quartet's inputs, mic preamps, outputs and set up low latency monitoring. Quartet's DC power charges iPad while in use so recording is not interrupted. Quartet provides plenty of power for studio headphones, microphones and MIDI keyboards. In addition, Quartet accepts and provides professional audio level (ie. balanced, +4 dBu reference level).

When used with iPad or an iOS device, Quartet works with any Core Audio compliant app like GarageBand, Auria and MultiTrack. For recording on a Mac, Quartet works with Logic, Pro Tools, GarageBand, Ableton Live and any Mac Core Audio compliant application.

Quartet for iPad and Mac - Highlights

First professional multi-channel audio interface for iPad
Direct digital connection to iPod touch, iPhone, iPad
Works with new iPhone 5, iPad (4th generation), iPad mini
(Apple's Lighting to 30-pin adapter required - Sold separately)
Works with GarageBand, Auria, MultiTrack and any Core Audio compliant app on iOS
Works with GarageBand, Logic, Pro Tools, Ableton and any Core Audio compliant app on Mac
Low latency monitoring, complete input/output control with Apogee's Maestro software (iOS & Mac)
MIDI input/output (USB-A type connector)
DC power supplies charge to iPod touch, iPhone or iPad
USB 2.0 audio with 24-bit/192kHz A/D and D/A conversion
4 Analog inputs with world-class mic preamps and selectable 48v phantom power
6 Balanced analog line outputs
ADAT/SMUX digital Inputs
Monitor control - up to 3 speaker sets
1 Independent 1/4" stereo headphone output
QuickTouch pads for input/output selection and advanced control
Legendary Apogee sound quality
Designed in California - Made in the U.S.A.

System Requirements

Mac OS:

Computer: Intel Mac 1.5GHz or faster
Memory: 2 GB RAM minimum, 4 GB recommended
OS: 10.6.8, 10.7.4 or greater
Connection and power: Any available USB port on a Mac
Power: DC Power supply included
iOS:

iOS version: 5.1 and later
Connection: 30-pin dock connector
DC Power supply included
iOS device compatibility (Lightning connector)

iPod touch* (5th generation)
iPhone 5*
iPad* (4th generation)
iPad mini*
* Requires Apple's Lightning to 30-pin adapter. Sold separately.

iOS device compatibility (30-pin connector)

iPod touch (4th generation)
iPhone 4S
iPhone 4
iPad (3rd generation)
iPad 2
iPad

Price: $1295
Availability: February 2013


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Saturday, January 12, 2013

HiFiMAN launches HM-901 'high resolution' audio player, we go ears and hands on

HiFiMAN launches HM901 'high resolution' audio player, we go ears and hands on


The humble personal music player has seen many iterations over the last few decades. That doesn't mean that people aren't still giving the area some love, and HiFiMAN is definitely flying the flag with its HM-901 Reference Music Player. The unit incorporates dual Saber ES9018 32-bit DAC chips, with upsampling 20 24-bit / 96kHz. It claims to be able to play most lossless audio formats, including Apple lossless. Of course, it'll still play your regular MP3s too, should you so desire. One neat trick is a removable amplifier card which means -- at a future date -- you could be able to swap them out for other amp cards that bestow a different sound, much like different guitar amps etc. Other forthcoming features include gapless playback, and the ability to use it as a WiFi music server. If you want some hard numbers, then HiFiMAN states that the distortion is less than 0.003 percent, with a signal to noise ratio of 107dB. Want to know the stereo cross talk? That'd be 86 db (line) and 76 db (headphone). Head past the break for our impressions.


HiFiMAN launches HM-901 'high resolution' audio player, we go ears and hands onSee all photoswhen.eng("eng.galleries.init")


The HM-901 is the follow-up to the firm's 801 model we saw a few years ago. While the 801 took a minimalist modern design, the 901 goes takes a straight-up retro vibe. The finish is a mix of textured black plastic that you might find on a classic camera and silver accents. The controls are a mix of simple click buttons and a physical jog-wheel (rather than a touch surface). As you can see, there is a small screen, but this beast is definitely audio only, so if you thought you might be able to sneak an episode or two of your favorite show on there, we're sorry to say, that won't be happening. Memory-wise, it's all about the SD card, so pick your capacity all the way up to 128GB we believe. There is also a companion dock, that carries the same vintage look and feel. One thing's for sure, this definitely has a distinctive look. And while it's not exactly slimline or light in the hand, this only really serves to remind you that you are holding something more serious than just any old me-too media player. Of course, looks and finish are one thing, but with a device that is selling itself on audio quality, the proof is in the listening. We tried it out with a variety of sound sources on some of the firm's own headphones, and we were extremely impressed with the quality. Classic, Opera and Jazz sounded incredibly clear, but, sadly, we didn't get chance to check it out with anything electronic. We're confident it would do the business though. If this sounds like something you can get behind, or have a large collection of FLACs you want to give an appropriate home, you can bag yourself one for the uncompressed price of $999, add another $399 if you want the dock. Both shipping in March.

Show full PR text

HiFiMAN Launches HM-901 Reference Music Player


Company's High-Res Player Raises the Bar on What is Possible with Portable Audio


CES Las Vegas, NV January 7, 2013 -– HiFiMAN, a leading designer/manufacturer of high performance headphones and portable audio products, formally introduced its new flagship portable music player, the HM-901. In addition to offering unrivaled sound quality, the new HiFiMAN player accepts a wide array of audio formats, is expandable and easy to operate. HM-901 will be shipping in March 2013 with an MSRP of $999 for the player.



HM-901 High Resolution Music player


Three years in the making, this remarkable HiFiMAN reference player is destined to set the bar higher by incorporating:


Dual Saber ES9018 32-bit DAC chips for highest sound quality
Upsampling to 24/192
Accepts most lossless audio formats, including Apple lossless
Step potentiometer for the volume control
TAICHI UI for fast response and simplicity of operation
Sleek design with robust case made of high-tech composites
Expandable including amplifier card
Digital input/output and USB decoding through optional docking station
WiFi Music Server (will support via firmware upgrading)
Gapless playback (will support via firmware upgrading)


According to HiFiMAN Founder and President, Dr. Fang Bian, "The best technology and great sound is only as good as the user's ability to operate their device and access their music, quickly and easily. Ease of use was a high priority in designing the HM-901 along with creating a rich, sleek appearance. For example, on the User Interface for the HM-901, you'll notice that the buttons and a rotating navigation menu cleverly comprise the main interface. The innovative TAICHI UI and high quality volume controller also add value and performance to the entire operating system."


Dr. Bian went on to add, "We see a clear parallel between digital photography and portable audio. For example, an inexpensive point-and-shoot camera does a reasonable job of taking pictures but cannot begin to compare with the imaging quality of a professional SLR. Same holds true for an iPod. It has adequate sound quality but cannot compare to the finest digital playback systems. The HM-901 has been extensively tested in double-blind listening sessions and compares favorably to the highest quality digital players. I believe that when music lovers and audiophiles know that they can have this level of sound quality in a portable player, they will readily see the parallel with digital photography."


HM-901 with Docking Station


The HM-901 player alone will sell for $999 MSRP. The optional docking station will be available in April 2013 and sell for $399. WiFi music server and gapless playback function will be available at a later date TBA via firmware upgrading.


HM-901 Specifications:
Music Formats: Wav, flac: 24/88.2, 24/96, 24/176.4, 24/192; Mp3, alac, aac, aiff:16/44.1, 16/48.
Distortion: less than 0.003%
S/N: 107dB
Stereo crosstalk: 86 db (line output), 72 db (balanced headphone output)


Supplied Accessories:


The player
Power supply
Amplifier card
Extension socket (Line out, coax input, coax output, USB cable, charge port)
HiFiMAN will be exhibiting at CES 2013 in # 21706 in the LVCC South Hall. In addition to the revolutionary HM-901, on display and demonstration will be the entire line of HiFiMAN award-winning full-size headphones, headphone amplifiers and high-res portable music players, including the new RE-600 and RE-400 in-ear monitors.


Key Features of the HiFiMAN HM-901:
Sound quality comparable to reference digital playback systems
Accepts most major audio formats
Easy to set up, Simple to operate
Expandable – optional docking station and modules will be available
Can function as a network music server

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Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Plex desktop app becomes Plex Home Theater, adds AirPlay and HD audio

Plex desktop app becomes Plex Home Theater, adds AirPlay and HD audio

Plex wants us to settle in for some holiday viewing in front of our home theater PCs, and to that effect it's delivering a major beta update to its desktop app -- including a new name. The more clearly defined Plex Home Theater syncs up with the XBMC 12 beta and simplifies Plex's own update process. For those in the living room, shifting to the newer base brings AirPlay streaming from nearby Apple-friendly gear as well as 10-bit H.264 video and HD audio. Behind-the-scenes updates bring more efficient video rendering and fix some older bugs, such as audio sync with SD footage. The catch to enjoying all this? As the upgrade is pre-release code, Plex is limiting early access to PlexPass subscribers. Media mavens still willing to pay the premium can check out the source link for an upgrade to their end-of-year movie marathons.

Filed under: Home Entertainment, Software, HD

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Via: GigaOM

Source: Plex

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