Category Archives: Audio

2026, Audio, Bluetooth, Gadget Man, Streaming

Noble Sceptre Review – Unlocking Proper Bluetooth Without Replacing the Kit You Love

Leave a comment

There’s a quiet frustration that many of us never quite articulate.

You buy excellent headphones. You invest in something genuinely special. Then you discover that the weakest link in the entire chain isn’t the drivers, the tuning or the comfort… it’s the Bluetooth chip inside your phone or laptop.

The Noble Sceptre arrives as a rather elegant solution to that problem.

Noble Sceptre Review - Unlocking Proper Bluetooth Without Replacing the Kit You Love
Noble Sceptre Review – Unlocking Proper Bluetooth Without Replacing the Kit You Love

Launching at £64.99, this compact Bluetooth transmitter promises to bypass the limitations of built-in wireless hardware and deliver high-resolution codecs like LDAC and aptX Adaptive to virtually any compatible device .

And in typical Noble fashion, it does so without fuss.

What Exactly Is It?

At first glance, the Sceptre looks like a small, understated USB-C dongle. No flashing lights. No oversized branding. Just a compact metal unit designed to disappear into your setup.

But internally, it’s built around Qualcomm’s QCC5181 chipset with Bluetooth 5.4 support . That’s the important bit.

Rather than relying on whatever Bluetooth radio your phone, tablet or laptop happens to include, Sceptre handles the transmission itself. It becomes the brains of your wireless link.

The result? Access to advanced codecs including:

  • LDAC
  • aptX Adaptive
  • AAC
  • SBC

In practical terms, that means cleaner transmission, better detail retrieval and more consistent audio quality.

Noble Sceptre Review - Unlocking Proper Bluetooth Without Replacing the Kit You Love
Noble Sceptre Review – Unlocking Proper Bluetooth Without Replacing the Kit You Love

Why This Matters

Modern smartphones, particularly some iOS devices, are notoriously restrictive with codec support. Even on Android, implementation can be inconsistent.

Sceptre effectively levels the playing field.

Plug it into a USB-C device and suddenly you’re no longer at the mercy of whatever the manufacturer decided to include. It supports iOS, Android and Windows platforms , and it’s compatible with a wide range of Bluetooth headphones, true wireless buds and even powered speakers.

For anyone running premium wireless IEMs or high-end Bluetooth headphones, that’s a significant upgrade path without replacing your existing gear.

Noble Sceptre Review - Unlocking Proper Bluetooth Without Replacing the Kit You Love
Noble Sceptre Review – Unlocking Proper Bluetooth Without Replacing the Kit You Love

Real-World Use

What impressed me most is how practical it feels.

There’s a charge-through USB-C port, meaning you can power your phone or laptop while using Sceptre . That makes it viable for long commutes, flights or desk use. No battery anxiety.

Bluetooth profiles supported include HFP, A2DP and AVRCP , so calls and media control work as expected. Transmission range is rated at up to 20 metres , which in everyday terms means stable connection across a room, through a couple of interior walls, or around a typical office.

Setup is handled via the Noble app for the initial pairing, after which it behaves like a proper plug-and-play device .

Design and Build

The design language is classic Noble.

Minimal. Purposeful. Compact.

It doesn’t scream “audiophile accessory”. Instead, it feels like a professional tool. Something you carry because you know what it does, not because you want attention.

It’s lightweight enough to live permanently on a laptop. Small enough to disappear into a pocket alongside your phone. And crucially, it doesn’t add clutter.

Noble Sceptre Review - Unlocking Proper Bluetooth Without Replacing the Kit You Love
Noble Sceptre Review – Unlocking Proper Bluetooth Without Replacing the Kit You Love

Who Is It For?

This isn’t aimed at casual listeners.

It’s for:

  • People who own serious wireless headphones
  • Commuters who stream lossless or high-quality audio
  • Gamers who want more consistent wireless performance
  • Anyone frustrated by codec limitations on their device

If you’re perfectly happy with standard SBC streaming, this probably isn’t essential.

But if you’ve invested in quality audio and feel your source is holding you back, Sceptre makes a compelling case.

Noble Sceptre Review - Unlocking Proper Bluetooth Without Replacing the Kit You Love
Noble Sceptre Review – Unlocking Proper Bluetooth Without Replacing the Kit You Love

The Bigger Picture

Noble built its reputation on handcrafted in-ear monitors and distinctive true wireless designs. With Sceptre, they’ve moved upstream into the signal chain itself .

That’s clever.

Rather than asking customers to buy new headphones, they’re enhancing what people already own.

At £64.99 / $69.99 / €69.99 , it’s positioned accessibly for a performance upgrade that could genuinely transform a wireless setup.

Gadget Man Verdict

The Noble Sceptre is one of those devices that solves a problem many people don’t realise they have.

It doesn’t try to be flashy. It doesn’t attempt to reinvent wireless audio. Instead, it quietly improves the weakest link in the chain.

And in audio, the chain matters.

If you’ve invested in quality Bluetooth headphones and want to hear what they’re truly capable of, this small dongle may well be the missing piece.

Compact. Practical. Sensible. And surprisingly impactful.

Exactly the sort of understated gadget I rather enjoy discovering.

2026, Audio, Final, Gadget Man, Gaming

Final expands its gaming line-up with VR3000 Recable and VR3000 +Condenser Mic

Leave a comment

Tokyo, Japan – 19 February 2026: Japanese audio specialist Final has announced two new additions to its popular VR3000 for Gaming series: the VR3000 Recable for Gaming and the VR3000 +Condenser Mic for Gaming.

With sales of the original VR3000 exceeding 160,000 units worldwide, the series has become a popular choice for gamers seeking immersive, spatially accurate sound. The two new models introduce detachable cable support and enhanced communication options, giving players greater flexibility to tailor their setup to their gaming style and environment.

Final expands its gaming line-up with VR3000 Recable and VR3000 +Condenser Mic
Final expands its gaming line-up with VR3000 Recable and VR3000 +Condenser Mic

Both models will be available from selected retailers worldwide from 19 February 2026.

  • VR3000 +Condenser Mic: $99.99 / £79.99 / €99.99
  • VR3000 Recable: $84.99 / £69.98 / €84.99

Designed for immersive gaming

The VR3000 for Gaming series was developed through Final’s research into immersive binaural sound reproduction. Rather than artificially boosting certain frequencies, the earphones are tuned to accurately recreate spatial information and deliver a realistic sense of presence within the game world.

This approach allows players to experience clear front, back, left, right and vertical positioning, along with a convincing sense of distance and space. In fast-paced FPS titles or narrative-driven adventures, the natural spatial presentation is designed to enhance immersion and support instinctive reactions.

Final expands its gaming line-up with VR3000 Recable and VR3000 +Condenser Mic
Final expands its gaming line-up with VR3000 Recable and VR3000 +Condenser Mic

VR3000 Recable for Gaming

The VR3000 Recable introduces a detachable cable design, offering improved flexibility and longevity. Gamers can replace or upgrade the cable independently, helping to extend the product’s lifespan.

It features a high-precision in-house 0.78mm 2-pin connector and includes a soft black OFC cable designed to minimise touch noise while remaining flexible and comfortable during extended gaming sessions.

Specifications

  • Housing: ABS
  • Driver: Dynamic
  • Connector: 0.78mm 2-pin
  • Cable: Black OFC cable with in-line controller mic
  • Sensitivity: 101 dB
  • Impedance: 18 Ω
  • Weight: 20 g
  • Cable length: 1.2 m

Included accessories:

  • Eartips (TYPE E, 5 sizes)
  • Ear hooks (TYPE B)
  • Dedicated pouch
Final expands its gaming line-up with VR3000 Recable and VR3000 +Condenser Mic
Final expands its gaming line-up with VR3000 Recable and VR3000 +Condenser Mic

VR3000 +Condenser Mic for Gaming

The VR3000 +Condenser Mic model supports recabling and adds a lightweight dedicated condenser microphone for clear in-game communication.

The microphone is designed to deliver natural voice reproduction without interfering with gameplay. It includes a windscreen sponge to reduce pop noise and maintain clarity, while the cable features integrated controller buttons for convenient volume adjustment during play.

Specifications

  • Housing: ABS
  • Driver: Dynamic
  • Connector: 0.78mm 2-pin
  • Cable: Black OFC cable with condenser mic
  • Sensitivity: 101 dB
  • Impedance: 18 Ω
  • Weight: 23 g
  • Cable length: 1.2 m

Included accessories:

  • Eartips (TYPE E, 5 sizes)
  • Ear hooks (TYPE B)
  • Two windscreen sponges
Audio, Earbuds, Final

Final Launches A2000 Wired In-Ear Monitors with Exceptional Clarity and Energetic Bass

Leave a comment

Tokyo, Japan – 19 February 2026: Japanese audio specialist Final has announced the Final A2000, a new wired in-ear monitor designed to deliver exceptional clarity and punchy, energetic bass at an accessible price point.

The A2000 will be available from selected retailers worldwide from 19 February 2026, priced at £79.99 / $79.99 / €74.99.

Final Launches A2000 Wired In-Ear Monitors with Exceptional Clarity and Energetic Bass
Final Launches A2000 Wired In-Ear Monitors with Exceptional Clarity and Energetic Bass

Clear sound with lively, bouncy bass

Final says the A2000 delivers precisely imaged notes with strong definition, combining extreme clarity with tight, energetic low-end impact. The aim is a balanced and engaging signature that works well across a wide range of genres.

A new approach to sound evaluation

According to Final, the A2000 is the result of a newly established sound-quality evaluation methodology, first developed during the creation of the company’s flagship A10000.

Rather than relying solely on fixed sound-pressure testing, Final analysed how music is experienced in real-world listening conditions across varying volumes and recording qualities. The goal is to keep the A2000 sounding natural, controlled, and musical in everyday use.

Final Launches A2000 Wired In-Ear Monitors with Exceptional Clarity and Energetic Bass
Final Launches A2000 Wired In-Ear Monitors with Exceptional Clarity and Energetic Bass

In-house 6mm “f-Core DU” dynamic driver

At the heart of the A2000 is Final’s in-house 6mm f-Core DU dynamic driver. Final states that every component, from diaphragm and voice coil to magnet and production equipment, has been engineered internally.

  • A brass front housing is used to reduce magnetic interference.
  • An ultra-fine 30μm CCAW voice coil is designed to improve transient response.
  • Each diaphragm is pressed in small batches for uniform, low-distortion performance.

Refined fit and distinctive finish

Building on the design philosophy of Final’s B Series, the A2000 uses a stable three-point support fit at the ear pocket, eartip, and tragus. Final says this reduces pressure while maintaining security, delivering a natural, almost custom-like feel across a wide range of ear shapes.

The housing features a two-tone design, pairing classic black with vivid blue accents, finished with Final’s textured “shibo” coating to resist fingerprints and help maintain a clean appearance.

A high-precision 0.78mm 2-pin connector and soft black OFC cable are intended to minimise microphonics and maintain flexibility. The A2000 also includes five sizes of dual-hardness silicone eartips: SS / S / M / L / LL.

Final Launches A2000 Wired In-Ear Monitors with Exceptional Clarity and Energetic Bass
Final Launches A2000 Wired In-Ear Monitors with Exceptional Clarity and Energetic Bass

Specifications

  • Housing: ABS resin
  • Driver: Dynamic (f-Core DU)
  • Connector: 0.78mm 2-pin
  • Cable: Black OFC cable (1.2m)
  • Sensitivity: 99 dB/mW
  • Impedance: 19 Ω
  • Weight: 20 g

About Final

Established in 2007, Final began as a subsidiary of a major American connector brand. In 2014, the company became independent through a management buyout, which Final describes as its “second formation”.

Final says it aims to create earphones and headphones that people develop an affinity for and continue to use for years, supported by product design decisions and a repair system. The company’s brand concept is “the comprehensive pursuit of things that are fundamentally right”, and it notes that it actively adopts cutting-edge technologies such as 3D printing in support of that goal.

2026, Audio, Bluetooth, Streaming

Noble Launches Sceptre, a Tiny Bluetooth Dongle with a Big Impact on Wireless Audio

Leave a comment

Noble Audio has spent the last decade quietly earning a serious reputation among audiophiles, not by chasing trends, but by obsessing over sound quality. From handcrafted in-ear monitors to some of the most refined true wireless earphones on the market, Noble has always focused on performance first.

Now the company is turning its attention to something many people overlook entirely: the Bluetooth source itself.

Meet Sceptre, a compact USB-C Bluetooth dongle designed to dramatically improve wireless audio quality from phones, tablets and laptops, without forcing you to replace the headphones you already love.

Noble Launches Sceptre, a Tiny Bluetooth Dongle with a Big Impact on Wireless Audio
Noble Launches Sceptre, a Tiny Bluetooth Dongle with a Big Impact on Wireless Audio

Fixing the Weakest Link in Bluetooth Audio

Most devices today rely on built-in Bluetooth hardware that prioritises power efficiency and compatibility over outright audio quality. Even with excellent headphones, that internal Bluetooth chip can be the bottleneck.

Sceptre sidesteps that problem entirely. By acting as an external high-performance Bluetooth transmitter, it bypasses your device’s internal Bluetooth hardware and unlocks support for advanced codecs such as LDAC and aptX Adaptive. The result is cleaner, more consistent and noticeably more detailed wireless sound.

For anyone who has ever wondered why Bluetooth audio still feels like a compromise, this is a refreshingly direct solution.

Noble Launches Sceptre, a Tiny Bluetooth Dongle with a Big Impact on Wireless Audio
Noble Launches Sceptre, a Tiny Bluetooth Dongle with a Big Impact on Wireless Audio

Serious Hardware in a Tiny Package

At the heart of Sceptre is Qualcomm’s latest QCC5181 chipset, delivering Bluetooth 5.4 with improved efficiency and stability. By handling Bluetooth transmission externally, Sceptre enables advanced codecs including LDAC, aptX Adaptive, AAC and SBC, even on devices that would normally be limited to basic Bluetooth audio.

Paired with Noble’s own true wireless earphones or any high-quality Bluetooth headphones, the improvement is immediately obvious. Music sounds more open, dialogue is clearer and wireless audio finally starts to feel worthy of good headphones.

Noble Launches Sceptre, a Tiny Bluetooth Dongle with a Big Impact on Wireless Audio
Noble Launches Sceptre, a Tiny Bluetooth Dongle with a Big Impact on Wireless Audio

Designed for Real-World Use

Noble has clearly thought about how Sceptre will actually be used day to day. A charge-through USB-C port allows your phone or tablet to charge while you listen, which is ideal for long journeys, desk use or extended gaming sessions.

Support for HFP, A2DP and AVRCP means calls, media playback and controls all work exactly as they should. With a Bluetooth range of up to 20 metres, Sceptre remains stable in typical home and office environments, and it works happily with true wireless earphones, over-ear headphones and even powered Bluetooth speakers.

Initial setup is handled via the Noble app, after which Sceptre can be plugged into any compatible USB-C device and just gets on with the job.

A Small Device That Expands the Noble Ecosystem

What makes Sceptre particularly interesting is what it represents for Noble Audio. This is not just another accessory. It is an expansion into the wider wireless signal chain, improving sound quality at the source rather than only at the headphones.

It also feels very on brand. Instead of forcing users into a closed ecosystem, Noble has created a compact, portable tool that improves wireless audio across a wide range of existing gear.

Pricing and Availability

Sceptre launches on 6 February 2026 with a UK price of £64.99, alongside pricing of $69.99 and €69.99 internationally. It will be available directly from nobleaudio.com and selected retailers worldwide.

For anyone serious about wireless audio, Sceptre is one of those rare products that solves a real problem in a simple, elegant way. Sometimes, better sound is not about new headphones at all, but about fixing what feeds them.

2026, Audio, CES, CES 2026, Gadget Man, Speakers, Streaming

Edifier brings HDMI eARC to active speakers with the new M90

Leave a comment

At CES in Las Vegas, Edifier continued its push beyond traditional desktop audio with the announcement of the M90 Compact Active Speaker. Building on the design thinking behind the M60, the M90 is positioned as a flexible, high-resolution audio solution for desks, bookshelves, and TV setups alike.

The M90 reflects a broader shift in how speakers are expected to perform. Rather than serving a single purpose, it is designed to move comfortably between work, gaming, music, and home entertainment.

Edifier brings HDMI eARC to active speakers with the new M90
Edifier brings HDMI eARC to active speakers with the new M90

Compact design with serious output

Despite its relatively small footprint, the M90 delivers a combined 100 watts RMS of output, split across a bi-amped 2.0 configuration. Each speaker combines a 4-inch long-throw aluminium mid-low driver with a 1-inch silk dome tweeter, driven by high-efficiency Class-D amplification.

Measuring just 133 mm wide, 212 mm high, and 225 mm deep per speaker, the M90 is compact enough for desktop use while offering sufficient output to fill a room. This balance of size and power is central to its appeal, especially in multi-use spaces where equipment needs to stay discreet.

Edifier brings HDMI eARC to active speakers with the new M90
Edifier brings HDMI eARC to active speakers with the new M90

End-to-end high-resolution audio processing

At the core of the M90 is a fully digital signal path supporting 24-bit, 96 kHz high-resolution audio. The system uses an active crossover with dynamic range control to maintain smooth transitions between frequencies and balanced sound reproduction at different listening levels.

Both Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certifications underline Edifier’s focus on fidelity, whether audio is delivered via wired connections or over Bluetooth.

Edifier brings HDMI eARC to active speakers with the new M90
Edifier brings HDMI eARC to active speakers with the new M90

HDMI eARC and wide connectivity

One of the most notable features of the M90 is the inclusion of HDMI eARC, a connection typically associated with soundbars and AV receivers rather than compact active speakers. This allows the M90 to connect directly to compatible TVs for high-bandwidth audio transmission, simplifying setups and reducing the need for additional hardware.

Alongside HDMI eARC, the M90 offers optical, USB-C, and analogue AUX inputs, making it compatible with a wide range of devices including computers, media players, and turntables. A dedicated subwoofer output is also included for users who want to extend low-frequency performance with an external sub.

Edifier brings HDMI eARC to active speakers with the new M90
Edifier brings HDMI eARC to active speakers with the new M90

Modern Bluetooth and app control

Wireless connectivity is handled by Bluetooth 6.0 with support for the LDAC codec, enabling high-resolution audio streaming at up to 990 kbps from compatible Android devices. Bluetooth multipoint is supported and can be enabled through the EDIFIER ConneX mobile app, allowing easy switching between multiple sources.

Physical control is managed via a rear-mounted control knob for power, volume, and source selection, complemented by a 2.4 GHz omnidirectional remote. When connected via HDMI eARC, HDMI CEC allows volume and power control directly from a TV remote.

Edifier brings HDMI eARC to active speakers with the new M90
Edifier brings HDMI eARC to active speakers with the new M90

Customisable sound for different uses

The M90 includes three preset sound modes accessible via the remote, with further sound shaping available through a 9-band EQ in the EDIFIER ConneX app. Users can tailor the sound to suit music, gaming, or TV viewing, and manage inputs, playback, and settings from a single interface.

A clear signal of where active speakers are heading

With the M90, Edifier is clearly positioning compact active speakers as central audio devices rather than accessories. By combining high-resolution processing, HDMI eARC connectivity, modern Bluetooth, and app-based control in a compact form, the M90 points toward a future where a single pair of speakers can handle most everyday listening scenarios without compromise.

2026, Audio, Gadget Man, Majority, Streaming

Majority unveils the Move range of portable Bluetooth speakers

Leave a comment

Portable speakers are no longer just about being loud enough for the kitchen. They have become everyday companions that move with us from room to room, into the garden, and occasionally into a backpack. With that in mind, Majority has announced its new Move range, a family of four portable Bluetooth speakers designed and developed in the UK, with pricing that looks deliberately disruptive.

Launched from Cambridge, the Move range includes the Move M1, M2, M3 and M4, each stepping up in size, power and capability. Across the range, Majority has focused on simple usability, rugged builds, waterproofing, and the latest connectivity features including Bluetooth 6.0 and true wireless stereo pairing.

According to Majority founder Eddie Latham, the aim was straightforward. Build fun, modern speakers that match how people actually listen to music every day, while delivering features usually reserved for higher price points.

Move M1: small speaker, big stamina

The Move M1 is the entry point, and arguably the most surprising. It is palm sized, lightweight, and designed to be genuinely portable rather than something that just looks the part.

Despite its compact dimensions, the M1 delivers a claimed 70 hours of playtime, which is remarkable at this size and price. It is water resistant to IPX5, making it suitable for bathrooms, kitchens, or hanging from a backpack using the built in strap.

This is the kind of speaker you leave on a desk for podcasts, take into the shower, or hand to kids for audiobooks. Pair two together and you get proper stereo sound without complication.

Key specs

  • 12W output
  • Bluetooth 6.0
  • Up to 70 hours playtime
  • IPX5 water resistance
  • TWS stereo pairing
  • Hands free calling
  • USB C fast charging
  • £29.95

Move M2: more presence, more flexibility

The Move M2 builds directly on the M1, offering a fuller and more confident sound while still remaining easy to carry around. This is the sweet spot for shared spaces, whether that is a kitchen, workshop or a casual gathering with friends.

What really sets the M2 apart is flexibility. In addition to Bluetooth, it supports USB, AUX and Micro SD card playback, allowing you to play music without a phone entirely. Dynamic LED lighting adds a visual element without feeling over the top.

Key specs

  • 30W output
  • Bluetooth 6.0
  • Up to 30 hours playtime
  • IPX7 waterproofing
  • USB, AUX and Micro SD playback
  • TWS stereo pairing
  • Dynamic LED lights
  • £49.95

Move M3: proper power, still portable

If you want noticeably more punch, the Move M3 steps things up with increased power and improved bass performance. This is the model aimed at people who want room filling sound or something that can hold its own outdoors.

Despite the extra output, the M3 remains portable and practical, with IPX7 waterproofing and long battery life. It still supports stereo pairing, multiple playback options and LED lighting, making it a strong all rounder for home and away use.

Key specs

  • 40W output
  • Bluetooth 6.0
  • Up to 30 hours playtime
  • IPX7 waterproofing
  • USB, AUX and Micro SD playback
  • TWS stereo pairing
  • Dynamic LED lights
  • £79.95

Move M4: built for social listening

At the top of the range sits the Move M4, the most powerful speaker in the lineup. With 70W of output, it is designed for social spaces, larger rooms, and gatherings where volume and bass matter.

Like the rest of the Move range, two M4 units can be paired for stereo sound, effectively turning them into a portable sound system. Despite its size, it remains rechargeable, waterproof, and easy to move around.

Key specs

  • 70W output
  • Bluetooth 6.0
  • Up to 30 hours playtime
  • IPX7 waterproofing
  • USB, AUX and Micro SD playback
  • TWS stereo pairing
  • Dynamic LED lights
  • £119.95

Availability and pricing

Majority Move M1 £29.95

Majority Move M2 £49.95

Majority Move M3 £79.95

Majority Move M4 £119.95

The range will be available from Amazon, Currys and Argos.

The Gadget Man verdict

Majority has clearly put thought into how people actually use portable speakers, not just how loud they can go. Bluetooth 6.0, stereo pairing across the range, long battery life and waterproofing make the Move lineup feel modern and well judged.

At these prices, especially at the M1 and M2 end, this is a range that looks set to appeal to students, families, and anyone who wants fuss free audio that can move with them through daily life. I will be keen to get hands on with them soon.

2026, Audio, Home Audio, Sonos, Sound Bars, Streaming, Surround

Sonos Arc Ultra Review: With Sub 4 and Ace: a system that finally feels complete

Leave a comment

There was always something quietly impressive about the Sonos Arc Ultra. Even before the latest software updates, it delivered an expansive, room-filling Dolby Atmos experience from a single, discreet soundbar. What has changed is not how it looks, or even fundamentally how it sounds, but how finished the entire system now feels.

This is no longer just a very good soundbar. It is the centre of a genuinely flexible home cinema and personal listening system.

Design and presence

Arc Ultra remains a masterclass in restraint. Its slim, curved profile and matte finish allow it to sit beneath large televisions without shouting for attention. It does not block bezels, it does not dominate the room, and it blends in far better than most high-end audio hardware.

Sonos Arc Ultra Review: With Sub 4 and Ace: a system that finally feels complete
Sonos Arc Ultra Review: With Sub 4 and Ace: a system that finally feels complete

That calm design language continues into daily use. There are no flashing lights, no distracting displays, and no sense that you are living with a piece of “tech” rather than a home product.

Sound quality: wide, controlled, and confident

On its own, Arc Ultra delivers a convincing 9.1.4 Dolby Atmos presentation. Sound does not simply fire forwards; it spreads across the room, with effects placed to the sides and above in a way that feels natural rather than exaggerated.

Dialogue is consistently clear, helped by Sonos’ enhanced Speech Enhancement options. Voices cut through dense mixes without sounding artificially boosted, and the balance of music and effects remains intact. It is one of those features you quickly stop thinking about because it just works.

Bass performance from the soundbar alone is impressive thanks to Sonos’ Sound Motion™ woofer, but pairing Arc Ultra with the Sub 4 (£799) transforms the experience. Low frequencies gain genuine physical presence. Explosions hit harder, music gains weight, and the overall soundstage feels more grounded. Importantly, the Sub integrates seamlessly. It never draws attention to itself.

Sonos Ace: the update that changes everything

At £399, Sonos Ace headphones were already strong, but the recent major software update fundamentally changes their role in the system.

TrueCinema is the standout. Instead of collapsing sound into your head, it recreates the acoustic character of your room inside the headphones. Watching a film feels like you are still sitting in front of the TV, just privately. It is not a gimmick. It is genuinely convincing.

The updated TV Audio Swap for two is equally important. Two people can now listen to the same TV audio simultaneously on their own Ace headphones, perfectly in sync. Late-night viewing, shared spaces, or simply different listening preferences suddenly become non-issues.

Noise cancellation has also been refined, adapting in real time to glasses, hair, or hats, while call quality feels more natural thanks to improved voice handling and SideTone.

Why software matters here

This is where Sonos quietly pulls away from many rivals.

None of these improvements required new hardware. Arc Ultra, Sub 4, and Ace simply became better through software. Features that would normally justify a new product launch arrived overnight, free of charge.

This matters because it changes the value equation. You are not just buying hardware as it exists today. You are buying into a platform designed to evolve.

In a market obsessed with fast churn, this feels refreshingly grown-up.

Short verdict

The Sonos Arc Ultra system now feels complete.
With Sub 4 adding authority and Ace headphones transformed by TrueCinema and dual-listener TV Audio Swap, this is no longer just a soundbar setup. It is a flexible, future-proof home audio system that adapts to how people actually live.

Sonos Arc Ultra (with Sub 4 and Ace)
9.5 / 10

Pros

  • Exceptional Dolby Atmos performance from a single bar
  • Seamless integration with Sub 4
  • TrueCinema on Ace is genuinely transformative
  • Dual-listener TV audio is brilliantly practical
  • Software updates meaningfully improve value over time

Cons

  • Premium pricing
  • Full experience requires buying into the ecosystem

Final thoughts

At £999 for Arc Ultra, this is premium territory. Add the Sub 4 and Ace and the investment grows. But unlike many premium systems, this one earns its place over time.

This is not about excess or spec-sheet bravado. It is about refinement, flexibility, and sound that adapts to real life.

Sonos has not reinvented home audio here.
It has quietly perfected it!

2025, Audio, Streaming, Technology, The Gadget Man

Streamplayer: The Little Box That Brings Every Speaker Back to Life

Leave a comment

There is something rather special about great audio gear. Whether it is a cherished pair of bookshelf speakers from the seventies or a hefty amplifier that once powered many late nights, older kit carries a charm that refuses to fade. The trouble is that modern streaming rarely considers this history. We juggle apps, fight with compatibility issues, and often end up restricted to one manufacturer’s ecosystem.

Streamplayer: The Little Box That Brings Every Speaker Back to Life
Streamplayer: The Little Box That Brings Every Speaker Back to Life

Atonemo, a young company based in Stockholm, has stepped in with a refreshingly simple answer. Their new device, the Streamplayer, aims to bring every speaker you own into the streaming age. It works with speakers of any brand, size, or era and gives older equipment a modern purpose again.

Streamplayer: The Little Box That Brings Every Speaker Back to Life
Streamplayer: The Little Box That Brings Every Speaker Back to Life

Listening to music used to be an uncomplicated affair. You pressed play, and the sound travelled through a cable without any fuss. Today, we navigate multiple services that do not always get along. Streamplayer strips away that complexity by giving you a single, universal way to stream music across your home.

Streamplayer: The Little Box That Brings Every Speaker Back to Life
Streamplayer: The Little Box That Brings Every Speaker Back to Life

The concept is brilliantly straightforward. Streamplayer is a compact wireless audio streamer that connects to any speaker or amplifier. Once it joins your Wi Fi network, you can play music through AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, or Tidal Connect. Your vintage hi fi becomes wireless. Your modern speakers can work side by side with your older favourites. You can even synchronise completely different speakers into one unified system.

Streamplayer: The Little Box That Brings Every Speaker Back to Life
Streamplayer: The Little Box That Brings Every Speaker Back to Life

For fans of classic audio equipment, this is especially exciting. Many older speakers sound superb but lack the streaming features that modern life expects. Atonemo’s mission is to bring them back into everyday use, turning beautiful old gear into fully capable modern systems.

Atonemo’s Approach

The company was founded by two childhood friends, one a mathematician and the other a designer. Their shared passion for music and frustration with over engineered audio systems inspired them to create products that feel human, simple, and purposeful. Their philosophy focuses on clear communication and design that does exactly what it needs to do without clutter.

Key Features

Streamplayer is small, but the specification is impressive:

  • 24 bit 192 kHz audio
  • Gapless playback
  • AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect
  • Analogue line out and optical S PDIF out
  • Wi Fi 6 with WPA2 and WPA3 security
  • USB C power
  • Works with active speakers, amplifiers, hi fi systems, and vintage audio gear
Streamplayer: The Little Box That Brings Every Speaker Back to Life
Streamplayer: The Little Box That Brings Every Speaker Back to Life

Everything about it is built around compatibility and convenience. It arrives with a USB C power cable, an AUX cable, and a simple quick start guide, making setup as painless as possible.

A Simple Idea with Real Impact

The launch of Streamplayer feels like a moment for anyone who loves audio but dislikes unnecessary complication. It brings your favourite speakers back into daily use, unifies the systems you already have, and avoids locking you into any single brand.

For anyone with a cupboard full of forgotten gear or a cherished pair of speakers that deserve to be heard again, this little box might be one of the most appealing products of the season.

More information is available at atonemo.com.

2025, Audio, Cassette Player, retro, Retro Gadgets

Duran Duran teams up with We Are Rewind for a gorgeous new cassette player

Leave a comment

Every so often a product lands on my desk that pulls me straight back to the excitement of discovering music on a physical format. This week it is the WE-001 Duran Duran Special Edition from We Are Rewind, a modern portable cassette player created with the band’s full blessing and visual flair.

Duran Duran teams up with We Are Rewind for a gorgeous new cassette player
Duran Duran teams up with We Are Rewind for a gorgeous new cassette player

If you grew up with cassettes, you will remember the thrill of flipping an album over, hearing the clunk of the keys, and watching the spools spin. This special edition brings all of that back with a welcome dose of modern engineering. Even better, it arrives with a fresh cassette reissue of Pop Trash, complete with those familiar metallic and neon touches that have always followed Duran Duran through their career.

Duran Duran teams up with We Are Rewind for a gorgeous new cassette player
Duran Duran teams up with We Are Rewind for a gorgeous new cassette player

A cassette player built for the present day

The WE-001 looks and feels like something from the band’s own design board. The aluminium shell has a satisfyingly weighty feel, the buttons have a smooth mechanical action, and the audio side of things has been taken very seriously. A dedicated headphone amplifier gives the tapes far more presence and clarity than the portable players many of us owned the first time round.

It connects to wireless headphones and speakers thanks to Bluetooth and charges by USB C, giving around twelve hours of playback. It even records. Plug in a powered mic or use the line input and you can capture your own mixtapes in proper analogue fashion.

For anyone who wants the full nostalgic experience, a pencil is included in the box. You know exactly what that is for.

Duran Duran teams up with We Are Rewind for a gorgeous new cassette player
Duran Duran teams up with We Are Rewind for a gorgeous new cassette player

A collaboration with real heart

The band’s creative art director Andrew Day summed up the project perfectly. When Pop Trash came out, streaming barely existed. Two and a half decades later, celebrating the album with a beautifully designed cassette player feels surprisingly right. He described the finished product as “more Pop and less Trash”, which is a very neat way of putting it.

We Are Rewind founder Romain Boudruche added that Duran Duran’s long history with physical media made the project a natural fit. At a time when music discovery is often reduced to an endless scroll of digital tracks, it is refreshing to see an artist celebrate the value of something you can actually hold.

Interestingly, UK cassette sales rose by more than two hundred percent in the first quarter of this year, so the timing could not be better.

Duran Duran teams up with We Are Rewind for a gorgeous new cassette player
Duran Duran teams up with We Are Rewind for a gorgeous new cassette player

Price and availability

The WE-001 Duran Duran Special Edition is priced at £149 and is available directly from We Are Rewind. If you are a fan of the band, a lover of physical media, or simply someone who enjoys a beautifully built gadget, this is well worth a look.