Tag Archives: media

Transforming Audio: Octavio’s Innovative Approach to Spatial Sound

February 5, 2025Audio, CES 2025, Entertainment, Gadgetsces2025, gadgets, media, spatial audio, SpeakerPLUGHITZ Live

In the rapidly evolving landscape of audio technology, the concept of spatial sound has emerged as a groundbreaking innovation that enhances the way we experience audio. Traditionally, spatial sound has been reserved for high-end audio systems or specialized setups, often requiring significant investment in equipment and technology. However, recent advancements, particularly those introduced by companies like Octavio, are paving the way for the democratization of spatial sound technology, making it accessible to a broader audience.

What is Spatial Sound?

Spatial sound refers to the ability to perceive sound from multiple directions, mimicking the natural auditory experiences we encounter in our daily lives. Imagine standing outdoors, surrounded by the sounds of nature: birds chirping, a gentle breeze rustling the leaves, and the distant babble of a creek. This immersive experience is what spatial sound aims to replicate in a controlled environment, such as a living room or home theater. Yet, until recently, achieving this level of audio immersion required expensive equipment and technical expertise.

Octavio, a French audio company, is at the forefront of this movement. With over five years of experience in the hi-fi market, Octavio has developed innovative products that integrate both hardware and software to deliver spatial sound. Their flagship products, Harmony Bridge and Harmony Link, exemplify their commitment to democratizing audio experiences. Harmony Bridge acts as an interface between various audio sources-such as televisions, turntables, and streaming platforms-and any existing speaker system. Harmony Link, on the other hand, is a compact device that can be connected to speakers, enabling them to access Octavio’s spatial sound technology.

Democratizing Spatial Sound Technology Access

The brilliance of Octavio’s approach lies in its compatibility with a wide range of audio systems. Unlike traditional surround sound setups that require extensive wiring and specific equipment, Octavio’s solutions can work with any speaker, whether it’s a passive bookshelf speaker or a soundbar. This flexibility allows consumers to enhance their audio experience without the need for significant investment in new hardware. By leveraging existing equipment, Octavio effectively lowers the barriers to entry for spatial sound technology.

A significant aspect of Octavio’s innovation is its collaboration with the French audio research center IRCAM. This partnership has led to the development of algorithms capable of converting standard stereo content into spatial sound. This breakthrough means that users can enjoy an enriched audio experience regardless of the source material. Whether listening to music, watching movies, or playing video games, the technology ensures that sound is not only heard but felt, creating an immersive environment that enhances the overall experience.

Expanding the Possibilities of Content Creation

The implications of democratizing spatial sound technology are profound. For one, it opens up new avenues for content creators, musicians, and filmmakers to explore innovative ways of engaging their audiences. By providing an accessible platform for spatial sound, Octavio empowers creators to push the boundaries of their work, leading to richer and more immersive storytelling. Furthermore, as spatial sound becomes more commonplace, it may influence the design and production of audio content, encouraging a shift towards more dynamic and engaging auditory experiences.

Moreover, the democratization of spatial sound technology aligns with broader trends in technology and media consumption. As consumers increasingly seek personalized and immersive experiences, the demand for accessible audio solutions will continue to grow. Companies like Octavio are not only responding to this demand but are also setting new standards for what is possible in audio technology.

Conclusion: Spatial Sound in Any Environment

In conclusion, the efforts to democratize spatial sound technology access represent a significant leap forward in the audio industry. By making advanced audio experiences available to a wider audience, Octavio and similar innovators are reshaping the way we interact with sound. As this technology continues to evolve and become more integrated into everyday life, it holds the promise of transforming our auditory experiences, enhancing the way we consume media, and ultimately enriching our lives. The future of audio is not just about hearing; it’s about experiencing, and with advancements like those from Octavio, that future is becoming increasingly accessible to all.

Interview by Marlo Anderson of The Tech Ranch.

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Insights and Tools from Alpha Networks to Build Your Own Netflix

February 5, 2025CES 2025, Videoces2025, livestream, media, streamingPLUGHITZ Live

The rapid evolution of technology has significantly transformed the way we consume video content. From traditional television to on-demand streaming services, the demand for high-quality, user-friendly platforms has never been greater. As the discussion with Alex Mathieu, a product manager at Alpha Networks, reveals, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into video platforms is a game-changer, enhancing user experiences and streamlining operations for content distributors and producers.

The Complexity of Video Platforms

Creating a robust video platform is a multifaceted endeavor that encompasses various components, including video transcoding, distribution, and editorial tools. These elements work in concert to ensure that users have access to a seamless viewing experience. However, building such a platform from scratch is no small feat, even for experienced software engineers. The challenges include not only technical hurdles but also meeting the high expectations of users who are accustomed to the quality offered by established streaming giants like Netflix and Hulu. The tools from Alpha Networks, however, streamlines the process significantly.

AI as a Solution

AI plays a pivotal role in addressing these challenges. As Mathieu explains, AI can elevate the content on video platforms by automating numerous tasks that traditionally require significant manual effort. For instance, AI can generate images, create synopses, and produce keywords, all of which are essential for enhancing discoverability and engagement. Furthermore, AI can analyze viewer behavior to improve recommendation engines, ensuring that users are presented with content tailored to their preferences.

One of the standout features enabled by AI is the ability to create time markers for various video segments. This functionality allows for features like info skipping and chapter navigation, which enhance user experience by providing viewers with greater control over their viewing journey. By integrating these AI-driven capabilities, video platforms can not only meet but exceed the expectations of modern consumers, who seek personalized and efficient content consumption.

Targeting the Right Audience

Alpha Networks operates within a B2B framework, partnering with enterprises such as video content distributors and producers. This focus on business clients allows the company to tailor its solutions to meet the specific needs of different organizations, whether they are starting from scratch or looking to enhance an existing platform. The modular approach adopted by Alpha Networks enables them to deploy comprehensive video solutions in a matter of months, providing businesses with the tools necessary to compete in a crowded market.

Understanding the diverse needs of clients, Alpha Networks offers flexible business models that adapt to various monetization strategies. Whether a client operates on a subscription basis or utilizes ad-supported content, the company can customize its offerings accordingly. This adaptability is crucial in an era where hybrid models are becoming increasingly popular, as seen with platforms like Hulu, which now blends subscription and ad-supported content.

Conclusion: A Powerful Way to Build Your Media Brand

The integration of AI into video platforms is not merely a trend but a necessity for enhancing user experiences and operational efficiency. By automating content management tasks and providing advanced features, AI empowers video distributors and producers to deliver high-quality, engaging content that meets the evolving demands of viewers. As the landscape of video consumption continues to change, those who embrace AI-driven solutions will undoubtedly lead the way in shaping the future of digital entertainment. These tools and more, provided by Alpha Networks, allows media producers to get their platforms to market faster and easier than ever before.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

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CANVAS HiFi’s Sustainable and Stylish New Era of Home Audio Systems

February 5, 2025Audio, CES 2025, Entertainment, Videoces2025, gadgets, home theater, media, speakers, televisionPLUGHITZ Live

In the rapidly evolving world of home entertainment, the integration of sound systems with television sets has emerged as a revolutionary concept. As consumers increasingly seek to enhance their viewing experiences, the fusion of high-fidelity audio with visual technology presents a compelling solution. CANVAS HiFi has combined the innovative design and functionality of integrated sound systems for TVs, highlighting their aesthetic appeal, sustainability, and adaptability to various home environments.

Integrated sound system for TVs

At the core of integrated sound systems is the idea of creating a seamless experience where audio and visual components coexist harmoniously. One such example is the product developed by CANVAS HiFi, a company based in Denmark. Their system combines high-end acoustic speakers with a sleek design that fits neatly beneath the television, effectively merging the two components into a single, elegant unit. This innovative approach not only enhances sound quality but also simplifies the setup process, eliminating the clutter often associated with separate audio systems.

The design philosophy behind integrated sound systems emphasizes aesthetics as much as functionality. By allowing consumers to choose from a variety of front covers and wood finishes, these CANVAS HiFi systems can be customized to match the decor of any living space. The use of sound-transparent fabrics from renowned Danish textile brands further enhances the visual appeal, ensuring that the system complements rather than detracts from the overall design of the room.

Sustainability and longevity

Sustainability is a critical consideration for modern consumers, and CANVAS HiFi addresses this concern by offering a long-term investment. Unlike traditional audio setups that may require frequent upgrades, these systems are designed to adapt to changing television technology. As new smart TVs with varying sizes and thicknesses enter the market, integrated sound systems can be adjusted accordingly. This flexibility ensures that consumers can enjoy high-quality audio for decades, as the sound system remains relevant even as they upgrade their television.

The emphasis on durability is another key aspect of the CANVAS HiFi systems. Constructed with robust materials and high-end components, they promise longevity and sustained performance. This approach not only reduces electronic waste but also provides consumers with peace of mind, knowing that their investment will stand the test of time.

Adaptability and customization

One of the standout features of the CANVAS HiFi systems is their adaptability to different television sizes and styles. This speaker system can accommodate televisions up to 85 inches in size, with the capacity to adjust for larger models in the future. The system’s design allows for easy modifications in height and depth, ensuring that the audio unit aligns perfectly with the television. This thoughtful engineering results in a cohesive look that enhances the overall aesthetic of the entertainment center.

Moreover, the ability to customize front covers based on television size – where a 55-inch TV uses the same front cover dimensions regardless of brand-demonstrates an understanding of consumer needs. This feature not only simplifies the purchasing process but also allows for a personalized touch, enabling users to choose colors and materials that resonate with their individual style.

Conclusion: Sustainability and flexibility in your home theater setup

CANVAS HiFi’s integrated sound systems for TVs represent a significant advancement in home entertainment technology. By combining high-quality audio with sleek design, these systems offer consumers an aesthetically pleasing and functional solution that enhances their viewing experience. With a focus on sustainability, adaptability, and customization, integrated sound systems are poised to become a staple in modern living rooms. As technology continues to evolve, the demand for such innovative solutions will only grow, making integrated sound systems an essential consideration for anyone looking to elevate their home entertainment setup.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

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How Zoog brings families together through storytelling @ CES 2024

February 11, 2024CES 2024, Entertainmentandroid, ces2024, gadgets, ios, media, readingPLUGHITZ Live

Zoog digital storytelling Zoog is a platform that aims to connect generations through technology. The idea for Zoog was born during the COVID-19 pandemic when the founders realized the difficulty grandparents and parents faced in communicating with their children and grandchildren over video. They wanted to create a way for them to engage with kids in a similar way to offline activities such as reading books, singing songs, and making them laugh, but in an immersive and fun way that could be done remotely.

Zoog is an innovative platform that leverages technology to bridge the gap between generations. By providing a simple and immersive way for grandparents to connect with their grandchildren through storytelling and interactive videos, Zoog enhances the bond between generations and creates lasting memories. It is a testament to the power of technology in bringing people together, even when physical distance separates them.

Zoog – Connecting generations through technology

The concept behind Zoog is simple. Users can choose children’s content, such as Winnie the Pooh, and use the app to record themselves reading the story. As they read, the app adds animations, face filters, background animations, sound effects, and music to create an engaging and interactive video. This video can then be shared with grandchildren, who can view it on any device at any time. They can react to the video with emojis and even request the next content they want their grandparents to read.

The primary users of Zoog are grandparents who use the platform to connect with their grandkids, especially if they don’t live in the same house. The platform is designed to be user-friendly for older adults, and the creators actively involve grandparents in the product development process to ensure it meets their needs and preferences. Many grandparents today are technologically savvy, having used iPhones and computers for years, making Zoog’s intuitive interface and simplicity appealing to them.

How to use Zoog

To use Zoog, users can download the app for free from the iOS App Store. The app offers some free content for users to try, but to access the full library, a subscription called Zoog+ is required. Creating a video is straightforward, and grandparents can share it with their grandchildren as a link, similar to sending a text message. The child does not need to have the app installed to view the video, making it convenient for both parties. The child can watch the video at their convenience.

The delivery of media through Zoog is done via text message links. When a grandparent shares a video, the link leads the recipient to a webpage where they can view the video and interact with it. The child can leave emojis and request specific content for future videos. The company has partnered with various content creators, such as DreamWorks, to offer a wide range of children’s content, including popular characters like Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse and soon-to-be-released Paw Patrol content.

In terms of pricing, the Zoog+ monthly subscription is available for $9.99. However, they also provide cheaper plans for those who opt for annual or quarterly subscriptions. This pricing structure allows users to choose the plan that best suits their needs and budget.

Conclusion: A simple way to read across the world

The Zoog app is currently available for iOS devices, with an Android option coming soon. This means that iPhone and iPad users can easily download the app from the iOS App Store and start using it to connect with their loved ones. The app is called Zoog: Magical Storytime and can be found in the App Store.

In conclusion, the Zoog app is a groundbreaking platform that enables grandparents and grandchildren to connect through storytelling and interactive videos. Overall, the app is a testament to the power of technology in bringing people together and creating lasting memories.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

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Sennheiser: Innovative sport earbuds with biometric sensors @ CES 2024

February 6, 2024Audio, CES 2024, Entertainment, Healthces2024, earbuds, gadgets, Health, media, wearablePLUGHITZ Live

Sennheiser MOMENTUM Sport The fitness industry has witnessed a technological revolution in recent years, with innovative tools emerging to enhance workout tracking and performance. A notable development in this domain is the advent of sports earbuds equipped with biometric sensors.

Great audio and biometric tracking together

Sennheiser, in collaboration with fitness company Polar, has developed what they term the “world’s best sport headphones” – the MOMENTUM Sport. These earbuds are uniquely designed with two biometric sensors – a heart rate sensor and a core body temperature sensor. The integration of these sensors enables fitness enthusiasts to track their workouts with greater accuracy and depth. By monitoring heart rate and core body temperature, users can gain valuable insights into their performance and exertion levels during exercise.

The sensors are strategically placed inside the earbuds, leveraging the unique characteristics of the inner ear. The inner ear, being quiet, dark, and muscle-free, provides a stable and consistent environment for biometric readings.

These sports earbuds offer a level of versatility and convenience not found in traditional fitness tracking devices. They can be used independently or in conjunction with a sports watch, accommodating a variety of athletic activities and personal preferences.

The earbuds also boast several additional features that set them apart. These include wireless charging, noise cancellation, and a built-in 3-axis accelerometer. The accelerometer allows users to control their earbuds even when wearing gloves or ear warmers, simply by tapping their cheek.

Set to be released in April, the MOMENTUM Sport earbuds are priced at $329. While this may be considered a premium price point, the extensive feature set justifies the investment for fitness enthusiasts seeking superior audio quality and comprehensive workout tracking capabilities.

MOMENTUM True Wireless 4: A blend of affordability and quality

The company also introduced its new MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 earbuds. These earbuds promise a premium audio experience at a price point that balances affordability and quality. The decision to set the price at $299 reflects Sennheiser’s commitment to delivering value to its customers without compromising on the quality of the product.

The design of these earbuds has been enhanced over its previous models, particularly the antenna design, resulting in improved connectivity. This is a critical feature for wireless earbuds, as a stable and reliable connection is vital for a seamless listening experience. Moreover, the earbuds come with a noise-canceling feature, ensuring that users can immerse themselves in their music without external distractions.

Conclusion: Great sound and features from Sennheiser

In conclusion, the introduction of the MOMENTUM Sport earbuds with biometric sensors marks a significant advancement in fitness technology. These earbuds offer a comprehensive solution for workout tracking, with features such as heart rate monitoring and core body temperature sensing. The strategic placement of biometric sensors ensures accurate readings, while additional features like wireless charging and noise cancellation enhance user experience.

The new Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 earbuds, priced at $299, present a compelling option for audio enthusiasts. With their enhanced antenna design, noise-canceling feature, and numerous other improvements, these earbuds are set to deliver a superior listening experience. Their affordability broadens their reach to a wider consumer base, ensuring that more people can enjoy the high-quality audio that Sennheiser is renowned for.

As for availability, the earbuds will be accessible on the Sennheiser website, allowing customers to easily purchase these earbuds directly from the manufacturer. Sennheiser is also actively engaging with its audience, promising to provide more information as the launch date nears.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

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WAVS Custom earphones: Custom-fit for transformative audio @ CES 2024

February 3, 2024Audio, CES 2024ces2024, earbuds, gadgets, in-ear monitor, mediaPLUGHITZ Live

WAVS Custom in-ear monitors Creating custom-fit earphones using 3D scanning technology has revolutionized the way we experience audio. At CES 2024, we spent some time with Ric Hoke, the energetic inventor of WAVS Custom, who has revolutionized the 3D scanning process for creating custom-fit earphones. The WAVS Custom app has immensely simplified the scanning process, completely eliminating the need for a visit to an audiologist for a fitting, and making it simple and convenient to get the best earphone fit.

WAVS Custom app brings custom fitting 3D scanning tech right to your phone

The WAVS Custom app is key to the snug customized fit of the company’s earphones and in-ear monitors. Using the their patented mobile 3D scanning technology you can perform the scanning process anytime, anywhere, with your phone in under 90 seconds. The app collects biometric data that is turned into a 3D model, which is then used to create a set of custom-fit earphones tailored specifically to the shape of your ears.

Unlike traditional 3D scanning methods that require scanning around the head, the WAVS Custom process uses the data collected from your face ID, which consists of infrared dots, making the 3D scan as quick and simple as taking a photo.

From your phone to your ear: These custom earphones offer state-of-the-art comfort and quality

After the 3D model of your ear is created, it goes to the WAVS Custom lab for processing. The company has perfected their 3D printing manufacturing method to ensure that the earphones are biocompatible and comfortable. The earphones are sleek and fit naturally in the ear, creating a fantastic seal and comfort.

The earphones are equipped with advanced audio technology and features, and can be used with a Bluetooth hookup or directly connected to a device. Additionally, WAVS Custom is releasing a first-ever custom fit, custom design gaming headset for mobile gaming and the Quest.

Conclusion: WAVS Custom brings custom Fit and clear audio as close as your phone

Custom-fit earphones created by 3D scanning have transformed the way we listen to audio, providing a personalized and immersive experience. The way WAVS Custom has transformed 3D scanning technology has revolutionized custom-fit earphones that can now be designed for everyone, satisfying different preferences and budgets.

Each set of WAVS is digitally processed and handcrafted here in the USA, and the company prides itself on providing a state-of-the-art product and a personalized experience for all their customers through their open-door approach to doing business, where every order is personal to them.

WAVS Custom earphones and in-ear-monitors range in price from $199 to $699, depending on the number of drivers and the level of customization desired – and there’s a lot of customization possible, from a variety of attractive colors and finishes to an Eddie Van Halen design.

You can learn more about the WAVS Custom patented 3D Scanning technology, and get an inside look at these high tech earphones and in-ear monitors at the WAVS Custom website where you can also ask questions, check out the FAQ and order your own custom audio gear.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

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Roland AeroCaster: The live streamer’s new best friend @ CES 2023

February 24, 2023Cameras, CES 2023, Entertainmentces2023, gadgets, livestream, media, roland, streamingPLUGHITZ Live

Roland AeroCaster Live streaming has become a big business. Between gaming platforms like Twitch and standard platforms like YouTuve and Rumble, it’s never been easier to stream video. Even podcasters have gotten into the video game in larger numbers than those of us who have done it for over a decade. But proper production setups can be incredibly expensive and require a lot of specific hardware. The Roland AeroCaster is the company’s answer to cumbersome production systems.

What is the Roland AeroCaster?

The Roland AeroCaster is a live and recorded video switching system for small and medium sized setups. The system integrates nearly everything that a broadcast might need and does it in an incredibly small format piece of hardware. The core device is a small switching board with a few core inputs. On the back is a pair of combo jacks, so you can plug in XLR microphones, instruments, or even a soundboard. There are also RCA jacks for a line level connection.

On the front are a series of controls. For audio controls, there are sliders for mic 1, mic 2, line-in, and main. This gives you the ability to control the individual volumes for each direct audio input on the back of the board. There are also audio quality controls, such as de-esser and low cut filters. There is also control for an on-board microphone, sync delays, and more.

For video, it is a pretty standard basic video switcher. You’ve got buttons for your four video inputs, as well as the ability to create split-screen variants between any pair of inputs. However, the controls on the board are just the beginning of the story. The real magic comes from the connected software.

Roland AeroCaster LIVE app

The Roland AeroCaster LIVE app is really what separates the system from its competitors, some of which we have tried out. The software is well thought out and gives a lot of capabilities that we have complained about with other devices. First and foremost, the system allows you to import photos, audio, and video from your iPad for broadcast. This means that you have the ability to run bumpers, advertisements, and more. This is a huge benefit and something that makes the system really attractive.

In addition, the software integrates with streaming destinations to create a single point of connection. For those who are looking for a simple setup, you can connect to Twitch, Facebook, YouTube, and more. You can also monitor chats and comments on these platforms all within the software. For those looking to broadcast on a bigger stage, you can use RTMP directly to a service like Restream or Wowza to stream to multiple platforms.

Mobile cameras

One thing that really makes the Roland AeroCaster unique is its use of mobile phones as cameras. Rather than having to purchase special hardware, you can use your existing phone or tablet as a camera. This makes sense, especially for startup broadcasters, as we all have our current phone and many of us also have our last generation phone. This gives older phones a new life while producing a video quality that is equal to most professional streaming webcams.

Summary

The Roland AeroCaster is available now with a retail price of $295. You can get it right now at Amazon, B&H Photo, and more. To learn more about it, check out the product page.

Interview by Allante Sparks of PLuGHiTz Live Special Events.

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Roland BRIDGE CAST makes game streaming a lot easier @ CES 2023

February 24, 2023CES 2023, Entertainmentces2023, gadgets, gaming, livestream, media, roland, streamingPLUGHITZ Live

Roland BRIDGE CAST Videogame streaming has become a major part of the entertainment industry. In our offices, you can almost always find at least one Twitch stream running with one of the popular streamers. As the industry grows, new issues are introduced. For example, the RIAA has recently discovered what’s going on with Twitch and started handing out DMCA strikes for music usage. Gamers have been looking for a middle ground on this issue, and the Roland BRIDGE CAST might just be the solution they’ve been looking for.

What is the Roland BRIDGE CAST?

The Roland BRIDGE CAST is a new audio interface designed specifically for online broadcasters. This can be gamers, podcasters, and more. The device is a broadcaster’s dream with all of the inputs you can need. Across the back, it features an auxiliary input and a line out, both of which are 1/8″ jacks, as well as a 1/8″ headphone jack.

The interface has also got dual USB-C ports. One is a dedicated power port, which is a nice choice for those who aren’t going to have the device in a highly trafficked area. The other is for connecting the mixer to a computer for input and output of sound.

Most importantly, the Roland BRIDGE CAST features an XLR jack for a microphone. This allows you to use any type of professional microphone you might want to use. To make the offering better, the XLR jack has 48 V Phantom power to support the more powerful professional microphones like the ones we use in our studios.

What sets the Roland BRIDGE CAST apart?

One of the features that really sets the Roland BRIDGE CAST apart from the other competing options is its dual mix option. This means that you can have two separate and unique outputs coming from the same set of devices. The most common usage today would be for different music options for the streamer and their audience.

Why might a streamer want to hear something different from their audience? Because of copyright concerns. Many gamers like to listen to certain music to help get them in the zone to play better. But, to include that audio as part of a public broadcast, the streamer can be hit with DMCA strikes for using copyrighted music without permission. By using dual outputs, the gamer can listen to the copyrighted music that they want to listen to while playing something else, such as royalty-free music publicly.

On that topic, the Roland BRIDGE CAST system actually includes a large collection of royalty-free music that can be used safely on streams. So, those who are looking to keep their streams both entertaining and legal can use this collection as part of their public feed.

Summary

If you are a streamer or podcaster and are looking for a serious audio interface, the Roland BRIDGE CAST is a solid choice to consider. It is not yet available but is expected to launch in Quarter 2 of 2023. To learn more about the Roland BRIDGE CAST, head over to the product page.

Interview by Allante Sparks of PLuGHiTz Live Special Events.

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TWT Audio makes durable headphones for music and gaming @ CES 2023

January 27, 2023CES 2023, Entertainmentces2023, gadgets, gaming, headphones, mediaPLUGHITZ Live

TWT Audio Durable Headphones When you work with audio hardware, you know that it can be fragile. This is especially the case when you take something like headphones and put them into a public space, like a school, library, or gaming center. When people don’t have to pay for something, they don’t have a lot of respect for it. This is known as the tragedy of the commons. However, sometimes a company comes along to tackle these common issues, like TWT Audio.

Who is TWT Audio?

TWT Audio is a brand that designs and produces headphones. The brand started out in the educational space producing headphones for schools. The top challenge that they experienced in schools was the durability of the headphones. Kids didn’t have any interest in maintaining headphones that weren’t theirs, especially in an environment they might not want to be in. So, the company took on this challenge to help reduce costs for schools.

Today, the company has taken what it learned in the educational sphere and has applied it to the consumer market. By bringing the concept of durability to consumer headphones, they have entered into an interesting space that has been sorely lacking for years. In addition, the company also focuses on keeping the cost of the products down while also making them visually unique.

TWT Audio’s focus on design

The initial products from the product line are focused on standard headphone use – music and speech. These headphones are comfortable and durable, while also sounding great. But the company has another differentiator – modular design. Many of the products have the ability to replace the pieces that take the most damage through usual use. For example, if your ear cups wear out or start to shred, which they will, you can unclip them and replace them.

Another aspect of modular design is in the cabling. The cable itself can be removed, allowing you to replace it in the event the cable wears out. We know that these cables, no matter what you do to prepare, are going to wear out, so this is a nice option. However, it also gives the ability to change the type of cable. Want to hook up to a headphone jack? No problem. Connecting to a computer? That’s an option. Looking to connect to a Hi-Fi system? That cable exists, too. So, one headset to rule them all.

In addition to the standard audio headphones, the company is also releasing their Victory series – a line of gaming focused headphones. They feature the same focus on quality and durability, but with different tuning. Rather than tuning the headphones for speech and music, the Victory series is tuned for foley. Foley is an term for the physical sound effects in media, such as snapping celery to create the sound of a punch.

In this case, the tuning allows a gamer to hear things like gunfire and footsteps in more detail than other sounds. With that focus, a player can get a better feel for where another player is in relationship to themselves.

Summary

TWT Audio products are available for purchase now. Headphones range in price from around $20 to $180. To learn more about the company, you can go to its website. To purchase one for yourself, you can find them on Amazon.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central and Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

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Toniebox makes story and music time easier for young kids @ CES 2023

January 24, 2023Accessories, CES 2023, Entertainment, Gadgetsces2023, gadgets, kids, media, music, Speaker, storytellingPLUGHITZ Live

tonies kids' smart speaker Children enjoy music and stories, but younger kids need help. Things like CDs or even streaming services require too much interaction and knowledge – plus they usually require a screen. This is where the Toniebox comes in, producing a smart speaker that allows kids to listen to music and stories on their own in a safe and easy way.

What is the Toniebox?

It’s an innovative audio system designed specifically for little listeners. With its soft, rugged construction and low-maintenance charging, Toniebox is the perfect companion for your child’s music adventures. It also comes with a select compilation of traditional children’s songs preloaded, so there’s no need to search through endless libraries of music!

Just turn it on and pop a Tonie on top, and your child can be off to explore the audio world! With its long-lasting battery life of up to 7 hours, you can be sure that Toniebox will keep kids entertained all day long. So, set your little ones free with this speaker – they’ll love it!

The Toniebox is a fantastic way to introduce children to music, stories, and sound effects in an interactive and engaging format. Get your kids’ imagination running wild with this fun and an easy-to-use audio system!

How does the Toniebox work?

Simply turn on the Toniebox and pop a Tonie on top. The device then automatically starts playing audio content from the chosen Tonie. If this is the first time that the Tonie has been placed on the box, it will go out to the internet and download the associated audio file. This means that you’ll need to be connected to the internet the first time you use a new Tonie. After that, the audio is stored on the Toniebox for future listening. In fact, the speaker has the ability to hold around 100 audio files and has an algorithm to determine what to remove based on how frequently and recently a Tonie has been used.

When your child is done listening, just take off the Tonie and the Toniebox will power down automatically. With its easy-on, easy-off charging system, you can be sure that your Toniebox is always ready for those long listening sessions. This makes it easy for the kid to use the box and not have to worry so much about charging.

What audio is available?

There are some great options available, including children’s songs, stories, and sound effects – so there’s something for everyone! The company produces a variety of Tonies based on existing and original characters. These characters include everything from Sesame Street to Disney to Peter Rabbit. Some of these Tonies have licensed content that already exists, while others have original content.

For example, the company has worked directly with the voice actors for several Sesame Street voice actors in order to create exclusive stories within the Sesame Street experience. The company also has its own characters available. This allows them to expand the offering beyond just licensing.

Summary

The Toniebox is currently available in several various markets. The starter sets run $100 which includes the Toniebox and a variety of Tonies depending on the set. Additional Tonies are available generally running at $15. Some of the more unique Tonies, such as the nightlight, cost more. To learn more about Tonies and the Toniebox, head over to the company’s website.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

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