New AKM AK4498EX Partitioned Stereo D/A Converter Now Sampling

Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) announced the new AK4498EXVQ Stereo Premium DAC that utilizes advanced Switched Capacitor Filter Voltage Output Velvet Sound technology. Like the existing AK4499EXEQ, launched in 2022 as part of AKM's two-chip solution, when paired with the AK4191EQ separate digital filter with multi-bit sigma delta modulator, the new AK4498EXVQ also delivers a completely partitioned digital and analog architecture to improve noise isolation, enabling analog conversion from ultra-high-resolution audio sources, including DSD.

TEAC Corporation announced the release of a completely redesigned 500 Series DAC/Preamp/Headphone Amplifier, embracing the high-end 700 Series design concept in a compact A4 size package. The new TEAC UD-507 has everything to please anyone looking for a high-quality, affordable DAC, with all the right features for high-resolution audio, wired and wireless. The headphone amplifier is a fully balanced dual mono circuit, and the preamplifier features multiple analog/digital inputs.

Apogee Electronics announced the release of the 40th Anniversary Edition Apogee Groove, marking four decades of excellence in audio interfaces and technology. This special edition of the Apogee Groove pays homage to the company's legacy while introducing cutting-edge enhancements for an even more exceptional listening experience. The 32-bit/192kHz ESS Sabre DAC and headphone preamp is now compatible with USB-C devices, including iPhones.

Almost a year ago, Focal introduced two important new headphones one after the other. The main announcement was the introduction of its flagship Focal Utopia 2022 Edition. The second announcement was the Bathys, its first wireless headphones with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). This sequence didn't help to project the sales of the Bathys, which also offer a high-quality USB-DAC wired mode. Now, Focal relaunched the Bathys with a new color and support for Mimi hearing personalization.

With the launch of the new Sound Blaster X5, a desktop USB DAC and amplifier design, Creative targets the more demanding requirements of music enthusiasts looking for a companion interface to their music streaming sources, with enough power to match the most demanding headphones. Using class-leading components, latest audio technologies, and comprehensive connectivity options, the Creative Sound Blaster X5 is a compelling audio solution that sets a new standard in the range.

To Wire or Not To Wire? Why not have both? Zorloo, a consumer electronics brand from Hong Kong introduced a product design that does both and manages to explore the best of wired or wireless audio. The Zophia Wire.less earphones support both modes by combining Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX support, with a built-in USB-DAC on the pluggable cable that allows listening to Hi-Res Audio and MQA files at their best.

Another week and more audio products are pitched on crowdfunding platforms. Some products have new or clearly differentiated arguments - sometimes so new or different that it's hard to believe! - while others are simply well-designed or products that have to rely on better quality and technical arguments that consumer's will find hard to understand or believe. The latter is the reason why we decided to write about the new Dense Audio USB audio DAC, called Adapt. This is a product designed by an experienced team, who have ventured into creating a new company and launch a product "that could set a new standard and be used for a long time in this fast-changing world."

CEntrance’s campaign to launch its DACportable USB DAC on crowdfunding website Indiegogo received an amazing response and quickly surpassed its funding goal. The DACportable is a battery operated, powerful, palm-sized USB DAC designed to convert the average audio of any smartphone, tablet or computer into a high-quality, high-resolution, listening experience.