Rotel Launches DX-3 Headphone Amplifier, Preamp and DAC
In hifi circles, Rotel is renowned for its stereo amplifiers. But the Japanese company recognized growing demand for high-quality headphone listening experiences and the fact that more people are spending time at home or by their computers. The Rotel DX-3 Headphone Amplifier introduces a new product category with a new, modern, fully balanced design. The built-in ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC renders music via USB input (32-bit/384kHz), coaxial/optical (24-bit/192kHz), aptX HD Bluetooth, and legacy audio equipment via an AUX RCA input.
Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro Wi-Fi Support 24-bit/96kHz Lossless Audio at 4.2Mbps
A year past since Qualcomm announced its S7 Pro Snapdragon Sound platform with micro-power Wi-Fi, Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi unveiled the new Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro Wi-Fi earbuds at MWC 2025. The brand designed a premium model with a triple coaxial driver system, hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC) up to 55dB, support for AI-powered transcription, and Qualcomm XPAN for direct connectivity to smartphones, enabling 24-bit/96kHz lossless audio with an expanded 4.2Mbps bandwidth.
Outboard DSP: Danville Signal dspNexus
The first in a series of reviews of outboard DSP processors available in the market and of interest to loudspeaker engineers, this article explores an extremely versatile and powerful DSP audio processor and DAC, crossover, and control center for any audio system. The dspNexus comes with balanced inputs and outputs, USB, S/PDIF and Bluetooth aptX HD, and processing is handled by a latest-generation Analog Devices SHARC DSP, with Audio Weaver as the programming interface.
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Fresh From the Bench: APL Virtuoso v2 Binaural Renderer for Multichannel and Immersive Audio Formats
Originally launched in May of 2023, APL Virtuoso is a culmination of more than 10 years of research into binaural audio and spatial sound, offering users the ability to mix and monitor immersive audio over headphones, without the need for complex loudspeaker setups. The v2 update of APL Virtuoso introduced acoustics emulation and externalization, simulating the experience of listening to loudspeakers in a perfectly tuned room.
T+A Unveils Symphonia Streaming Integrated Amplifier
German high-end audio manufacturer T+A elektroakustik launched the Symphonia, a streaming integrated amplifier that embodies the company’s unique vision of “The Future of Retro”. The one-box system combines cutting-edge technology paired with classic design elements such as beveled aluminum front panels and hand-assembled analog VU meters, modern rotary/push controllers, and extensive connectivity for both analog sources and modern digital media. Now available for pre-order at an MSRP of USD $9,990, the new integrated design will start shipping in April 2025.
Rohde & Schwarz and Ceva Announce Over-the-Air Bluetooth Test Solution
The next Bluetooth release is expected to be ratified soon. One important new feature is the Unified Test Protocol (UTP) Test Mode for Bluetooth Low Energy, that will complement existing test methods. The UTP Test Mode will additionally enable over-the-air (OTA) controlled device testing, which will simplify measurements of small and highly integrated devices enormously, since no direct wired connection to the tester is needed. Rohde & Schwarz and Ceva, in close cooperation, have developed a solution for this new test mode.
STMicroelectronics Reveals New STM32 Ultra-Low Power MCUs and Wireless Microcontrollers
STMicroelectronics has introduced new STM32U3 microcontrollers (MCUs) with power-saving innovations that ease deployment of smart connected devices, especially in remote locations. The company has also unveiled the next generation of its STM32 power-efficient short-range wireless microcontrollers that simplify connecting consumer and industrial devices. The two new MCUs leverage near-threshold chip design to set a record performance-per-watt efficiency benchmark.
Shure Announces MoveMic 88+ Wireless Microphone with Four Selectable Polar Patterns for Videography and Field Recording
Shure unveiled the MoveMic 88+ Wireless Stereo Microphone, a wireless microphone system designed for location recording. Building upon the existing MV88 Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone, the new MoveMic 88+ is an all-in-one solution that delivers broadcast-quality audio with improved portability. Featuring stereo, cardioid, bi-directional, and mid-side selectable polar patterns, it adapts to any recording environment and production needs.
The Audio Industry Mourns the Loss of George Krampera
KV2 Audio has confirmed the news of the passing of its founder and industry pioneer George Krampera Sr. A true sound reinforcement visionary, Krampera devoted the last decades of his life to the professional audio company he founded in Milevsko, Czech Republic. But his name will be also remembered for his pioneering work with RCF, from where he left to work at B&C Speakers, and later to create Fussion, a new company in partnership with Marcelo Vercelli, which was eventually bought by Mackie, which subsequently also bought RCF.
AAVAA’s Blink & Click Head-Mouse Devices Receive FCC Certification
Following the announcement that its assistive devices had received CE Certification in the European Market earlier in 2025, AAVAA has now received FCC certification for its Blink & Click Head Mouse devices, ensuring compliance with US regulatory standards for electromagnetic compatibility and safety. The Canadian pioneer of assistive technology is now able to expand across the North American market and empower individuals with mobility and communication challenges.