ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) today announced an all-new gaming peripherals lineup that channels the minimalist feel of monochrome through a striking Moonlight White color scheme. The ROG Strix Scope NX TKL 80%, tenkeyless mechanical RGB gaming keyboard, ROG Strix Impact II ambidextrous gaming mouse, ROG Strix Go Core gaming headset and ROG Cetra II Core in-ear gaming headphones are all now available in North America in this stunning colorway.

ROG has a long history of weaving Aura Sync into a huge ecosystem of devices to let gamers shine a light on their personalities through their gear - but many players also seek a minimalist look. That's why the ROG color palette is expanding to include the Moonlight White series, providing a commanding counterpart to the signature red-and-black color scheme.

The latest true wireless earbuds from JBL deliver sound that fits into every type of lifestyle - from urban explorers to fitness enthusiasts. Bursting with upgrades and exciting new features, the JBL Reflect Flow PRO guarantees a superior, secure fit with the signature JBL POWERFIN ear tip design. With its IP68 rating, these headphones are both dustproof and wave proof. It's the highest industry standard, ensuring ultimate performance, even in salt water.

Also launching are the successors of the popular JBL Tune 125 TWS and JBL Tune 225 TWS, the JBL Tune 130NC and 230NC. The latest earbuds to enter the Tune series deliver active noise cancelling for $99.95. "We have never needed music more than we do now," said Dave Rogers, President, HARMAN Lifestyle Division. "It's exciting to bring our new True Wireless products to JBL fans and to be able to offer new features and a new look after a challenging year. We are always pushing ourselves beyond the cutting edge of sound so that whatever we do, we are connecting people to others and to themselves. Whether you need active noise cancellation or extra-long battery life to get you through a long trip to see friends and family, JBL has you covered."

Apos Audio is an audio retailer based out of California, and got in touch with us to let us know of the Caspian—the brand's first set of headphones. It came about as a collaboration with Soundnews and Kennerton Audio. Using the ~$1000 Kennerton Vali as the base, the Caspian gets a tweaked sound signature and different design while managing to cut down the price by half. It uses a 50 mm dynamic driver, natural oak ear cups, and oval-shaped ergonomic sheepskin ear pads. Pre-orders are now up for those interested, and further information straight from the company is seen past the break. I especially like the "How it's made" page, but that may just be the engineer in me speaking.

Hyland Headphones, a boutique manufacturer of headphones based in Watford, on the outskirts of London, UK, has introduced their newest headphones: the Eclipse—the first closed-back model in the firm's line-up—and the Venus, the latest step up in the open-back range. The new headphones are the latest products of Hyland Headphones' research and development and feature the firm's widely applauded approach to building their products with care, and in small quantities, from beautiful, ethically sourced hardwoods.

The closed-back Eclipse (priced at £850) uses a complex cup design machined from separate pieces of wood in a two-step, two-day process, to give a sound quality that is the equal of their open-backed designs, but with the advantage of the passive noise cancelling that makes a closed-back design so appealing. The cup features an inner and outer chamber, with sound-absorbent damping in the outer chamber to ensure no stray reflections colour or distort the sound that reaches the listener's ear. The multi-wood design of the Eclipse also allows for additional customisation options: "...how about a creamy white Maple cup with a deep red Padauk top? Or a dark, gold flecked Panga Panga cup combined with the beautiful figuring of rippled Ash?"

I know what you are thinking—this isn't the typical news content we see on TechPowerUp. Yes, we do cover audio products with plenty of reviews here, including Audeze planar magnetic headphones. When Audeze mentioned there's a whole different thing coming up, and that it involves carbon nanotubes (CNTs), I was quite intrigued. Some of you may have picked it up by now, but all the neat toys I have access to and used in several reviews come because I am a research scientist by profession, with a specialization in carbon nanomaterials including CNTs. So this news post is about my attempt to help explain why the Audeze technology is such a big deal. This is not a review of the actual devices and neither is it a sponsored post, or even solicited by Audeze. It is purely me geeking out about a fairly novel use of CNTs in the audio world, especially when there have been CNT coatings on a few dynamic drivers before but barely put to the potential capable until now.

See, the whole reason the Audeze CRBN (Carbon, get it?) even came about is because an indirect research colleague of mine, Prof. Mark Cohen from the University of California, Los Angeles as well as his startup company SMRT Image, saw a need for a more calming influence for patients undergoing fMRI imaging, as well as better means for the technicians to communicate with said patients while they are inside an operating MRI machine. If you have ever been inside one, you would know that thing gets real loud with magnetic coils rapidly going around and clacking noises galore. Audeze is also based in California, and multiple years of research led to the development of the Audeze CRBN—starting off for medical applications and then coming out also as a high-end retail headphones experience based on the knowledge and IP gained in the process. Read past the break for more on the science and tech, if this is of interest to you!

As the market becomes saturated with commoditized headphone offerings that often put convenience-oriented features ahead of sound quality, Campfire Audio encourages music lovers to experience their music as it was meant to be heard: in full-bodied, no-compromise high fidelity audio. The company's new wired IEMs—which feature unique, hand-crafted designs in two sonically tailored variations, Satsuma and Honeydew—offer listeners an audiophile-grade soundstage and spectacular clarity at an affordable price.

As the quality and sophistication of consumer playback systems and streaming technologies continue to advance rapidly, Campfire Audio believes that many consumers are seeking a 'back to basics' approach with their audio—favoring features such as customized acoustic chambers, full-range balanced armature drivers, and quality cabling over convenient add-ons such as voice command and wireless capabilities. Both the 'orange-fizz' colored Satsuma and the 'mellow-yellow' colored Honeydew earphones are characterized by their superior acoustic performance and instantly recognizable design aesthetic.

Jaybird, a leader in true wireless earbuds for athletes, today announced the launch of Jaybird Vista 2 True Wireless Sport Earbuds. Vista 2 builds on the success of the original true wireless Vista earbuds, with unmatched durability and military-grade construction that allow users to seek out new and exciting experiences everywhere they go. Equipped with SurroundSense technology and a 6 mm driver, Vista 2 allows adventurers to amplify ambient sounds for safety or stay focused with Active Noise Cancellation, achieving the perfect balance of adventure-ready, premium sound and safety.

Vista 2 holds 24 hours of battery life and delivers up to eight hours of straight play time. A five minute charge gives users one full hour of play time, so premium audio is always available. The earbuds feature a pair of microphones in each bud with beamforming technology, plus Jaybird's new WindDefense fabric technology for clearer voice pickup and phone calls on the go. Vista 2 also introduces in-ear detection. This allows the music to automatically restart where users left off when they put the buds back in their ears, preserving battery life.

Etymotic has announced the release of EVO, a culmination of 30 years of earphone engineering research and innovation. The Etymotic engineers have worked diligently to make these the highest-quality and truest sounding earphones on the market. The EVO was created to match the audiophile's lifestyle. By using a two-way design, it produces a tight, low-end sub bass while providing a true and transparent sound across the entire frequency spectrum. Beautifully integrating three balanced armature drivers into a molded stainless-steel shell, the Evo truly is beautiful in both sight and sound.

Accuracy-driven engineering and comfort-based design deliver an innovative new product for the Etymotic line. The Etymotic EVO is the most accurate multi-driver earphone on the market. Commenting on the new release, Tal Kocen, Director of Consumer Product Development at Lucid Audio said: "We waited so long to put out a multi-driver earphone because we wanted to make sure that it was the best it could be and held to our exacting standards for earphone design and sonic qualities. The EVO is truly where precision meets audio and you'll immediately hear it the first time you listen".

ROCCAT, Turtle Beach's (Nasdaq: HEAR) Hamburg, Germany-based PC gaming accessories brand, today launched a new color option for itsElo 7.1 Air wireless PC gaming headset. The Elo 7.1 Air is now available in a stand-out white color that is visually stunning with the headset's alluring AIMO RGB lighting. The black Elo 7.1 Air that originally debuted with the wired Elo 7.1 USB and Elo X Stereo, are also still available. The Elo Series headsets perfectly blend ROCCAT's award-winning design and innovation with Turtle Beach's unrivaled gaming audio expertise and exclusive audio technologies. Elo 7.1 Air is the premium wireless model in the series and has been lauded by reviewers and fans alike for its premium offering at $99.99 MSRP. In April 2021, RTINGS.com named ROCCAT's Elo 7.1 Air the Best Wireless Gaming Headset Under $100. The all-new Elo 7.1 Air white is available now at participating retailers worldwide and from www.roccat.com.

KS Distribution is pleased to announce the release of the new Lypertek PurePlay Z3 2.0 true wireless earphones. This update to the multi award-winning PurePlay Z3 adds features such as the new Qualcomm QCC3040 chipset, Bluetooth 5.2, wireless charging, Hear Through mode and the new PureControl app compatibility - all this and more while keeping the price at £99/$99/€99.

Successor to the multi award-winning PurePlay Z3 (TEVI), the PurePlay Z3 2.0 takes the performance of Lypertek's first true wireless earphones to a whole new level. Utilising Qualcomm's latest QC3040 chipset allows for Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity and superior connection quality thanks to its TrueWireless Mirroring technology. Added features including wireless charging, Hear Through mode and compatibility with the new Lypertek PureControl app guarantees to offer an outstanding and customisable audio experience.

Sonarworks—the company behind precision audio software used by Grammy Award-winning engineers and recording artists like Lady Gaga, Madonna, Rihanna, Adele, Coldplay, and Kanye West—announces its partnership with Drop: the data-driven product design company built by and for enthusiasts. Together, Sonarworks is integrating its SoundID personalized audio technology into the Drop + THX Panda Wireless Headphones, the company's groundbreaking audiophile headphones offering audio at its purest, free of distortion and wires. They are also the first to feature SoundID's Advanced Parametric EQ feature, allowing listeners to create their own custom preset—giving them ultimate control over the sound they really want.

SoundID represents a paradigm shift in audio quality, moving away from the traditional one-size-fits-all approach, to personalizing sound for individuals. SoundID unlocks the full potential of your Panda Headphones so you can rediscover your favorite songs with unprecedented audio clarity. Your individual sound profile is as unique as your fingerprint—but even more advanced, thanks to smart algorithms and machine learning that evolve with you over time. The free profile can be set up in minutes with a simple app test to identify your SoundID, based on your unique hearing ability and listening preferences, and is automatically saved directly on your Panda headphones. With SoundID's Advanced Parametric EQ built-in, there are infinite ways to create your own custom preset or reset your frequency response curve to its flat state. Intuitive adjustments are tailored for even the most demanding audiophiles for an unmatched level of personalization, detail, and clarity.

Skullcandy, the #1 selling brand in Stereo Headphones and True Wireless Earbuds under $100, announced today its all-new Dime True Wireless Earbuds. Priced at $24.99 MSRP, the latest solution outperforms other earbuds at the same price point, offering an affordable way to get into the true wireless game. Dime grants users the freedom to live without wires, combining expertly tuned audio with a noise-isolating fit and must-have features, like a microphone in each bud. Available now at Skullcandy.com and major retailers nationwide, Dime delivers a pocket-friendly, stylish form factor in a variety of colors that won't break the bank.

Dime is an ideal, everyday audio companion that boasts up to 12 hours of battery life, freeing users from the hassle of snagging, yanking and tangling wires. When earbuds are removed from the charging case secured with a snap lid, the buds automatically turn on. Easy connection offers a simplified listening experience that's perfect for those new to true wireless. Intuitive, touch-enabled media controls on the compact stick-style buds enable Dime users to effortlessly take calls, change tracks, adjust volume and activate native voice assistants like Google and Siri, all without ever reaching for their devices.

Razer, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers (Hong Kong Stock Code: 1337), today announced the Razer Anzu Smart Glasses, its first ever eyewear product. Razer Anzu combines the valuable protection of 35% blue light filtering lenses, 99% UVA/UVB protective polarized sunglasses, touch controls, and open-ear audio for a one-of-a-kind wearable. Razer Anzu seamlessly enhances the experience of working from home, and makes digital entertainment or outdoor activities another opportunity to demonstrate your style.

Open-ear wireless sound and the use of Razer's low-latency Bluetooth technology offer consumers greater immersion and convenience to enjoy work-play lifestyles. A less-than 48 g light weight and ergonomic design delivers a comfortable fit for extended use, particularly during work-from-home sessions. Razer Anzu will be available from Best Buy and Razer.com in fashionable rectangular or round frame designs, each in two sizes with subtle branding adorning the durable and flexible frame hinges meant for easy storage.

Cleer Audio, industry-leading headphone and smart speaker manufacturer plans shipment of its new noise cancelling headphone, the Enduro ANC in first quarter of 2021. The Enduro ANC noise cancelling headphone operates for 60 hours of extended playback with the noise cancelling feature enabled —doubling the industry-average time. Cleer Audio is one of the first brands implementing Qualcomm's QCC5126 chip, along with Cleer's software team accounts for the Enduro ANC's advanced power management ability. In addition to being able to block noise up to 25 decibels, the noise-cancelling performance is customizable, based on where its being used, optimizing the balance between limiting unwanted noise and audio performance.

Using the new Cleer Connect app, users will be able to adjust settings for specific situations, e.g., traveling via airplane, train or car or use in a café or outdoors. Enduro ANC also features Cleer's patented 40mm Ironless DriverTM and Google Fast Pair 2.0. Made from a high-grade molded plastic, with ergonomically designed memory foam earpads, the Enduro ANC craftsmanship and light weight design ensures that is comfortable to wear for the long haul. Its slim adjustable headband flexes but doesn't weaken, so that the out-of-box pressure on the ears and crown of the head is optimum. (Enduro ANC U.S. MSRP: $149.99, available in Navy, and Light Grey. Shipping February 2021)

Cleer Audio, industry-leading headphone and smart speaker manufacturer introduces two new True Wireless Headphones with noise cancellation, the Ally Plus II (two) and Roam NC models for early 2021 that are certain to shake the competition with new technologies, features and lower True Wireless pricing.

The new ALLY Plus II noise cancelling true wireless headphone delivers industry leading hybrid noise cancellation, and battery life for up to 11 hrs. of playback. Its strong wireless connectivity, enhanced call quality with dual-microphones and Qualcomm cVc 8th generation noise reduction technology makes these a perfect companion for on-the-go lifestyles. Complemented by the new Cleer+ app, users can customize both the noise cancelling and sound performance of the Ally Plus II. Its small jewel box style charging case offers both USB-C and Qi wireless charging options for an additional 22 hrs. of playback, ¾33 hrs. of total playback. The wireless charging case showcases the earbuds with its see-through window helping confirm that the earbuds are charging when stored.

V-MODA, the award-winning manufacturer of the world's finest high-fidelity audio devices, announces the availability of the M-200 ANC, its first Bluetooth active noise cancelling headphones, featuring award-winning V-MODA sound coupled with hybrid active noise cancellation. The M-200 ANC takes V-MODA customization one step further by working in tandem with the new V-MODA app, allowing listeners to adjust their noise cancellation level and personalize their sound with EQ presets to fit their lifestyle.

"With this new release, we are propelling ourselves into a new generation of headphones that are unlike anything we've ever done before and into the V-MODA of the future," says Luca Bolognesi, VP of Marketing Technology of V-MODA. "We're thrilled to be introducing our customers to a brand-new kind of ANC headphone where they can fully customize their listening experience, as well as the physical build and design of the headphones they're wearing."

For 75 years, JBL has been at the heart of the entertainment scene, from powering sound at major pop culture events to partnering with some of the world's top talent across music, sports and esports. As the number one leader in portable speaker sales and the fastest growing headphones brand worldwide, this year marks an epic 75th anniversary for the brand, with multiple new JBL products announced today designed to enhance everyday experiences.

Since its inception, JBL has expertly blended a bold vision of the future with the passion and talent of engineers and designers around the globe. From day one, JBL has built its legacy based on a passion, energy, and love of sound. No matter how consumers listen to or how they listen to it, it is JBL's mission to make sure they love every minute.

[Editor's note: This press release is from the Philips US division, regional applicability may vary. Street pricing is already down to $149.]

Envision Peripherals, Inc. (EPI) today debuts a new pair of premium, true wireless ear buds, the Philips In-Ear True Wireless Headphones TAT8505BKs. The True Wireless version of the popular Philips Wireless Over-ear Noise Cancelling Headphone TAPH805BK earbuds feature classic minimalist design and boast Hybrid Active Noise Canceling and Awareness Mode for control over what is heard, letting users sink into rich, detailed sound or tune into the world around them. The Philips TAT8505BKs are available on Amazon, for $199.99 USD, starting December 15, 2020 at 12:01 AM PST.

Love What You Hear
The perfectly tuned 13mm neodymium drivers ensure a detailed, expansive sound with rich, powerful bass and thrilling clarity for every track. When an earbud is taken out, the music pauses. Put the earbud back in, and the music starts up again. The Philips TAT8505BKs have a refined geometric design creating a comfortable in-ear fit. The circular earbud housing is tactilely pleasing and is designed to subtly catch the light, creating an elegant, understated look.

Razer, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, today announced the Razer Hammerhead True Wireless Pro earbuds, featuring both THX Certified audio for high-fidelity sound and advanced hybrid Active Noise Cancellation to achieve an unrivaled, undisturbed listening experience with crisp, clear audio and impactful bass, ready for any situation - no matter if you are on the go or working from home.

As with the fan-favorite standard Hammerhead True Wireless earbuds, the Pro model features convenient touch controls and voice assistance compatibility, a customized low latency Bluetooth connection and extended battery life with the recharging case. A comfortable, secure fit with enhanced noise isolation is guaranteed by an in-ear design and the inclusion of premium memory foam Comply ear tips. The Hammerhead True Wireless Pro earbuds are also IPX4 rated for sweat and splash protection.

Ultimate Ears (UE) today introduced UE FITS, the first-ever true wireless earphones with instant custom fit. Similar to fingerprints, each person's individual ear is unique. No two prints, even on the same person, are the same. UE FITS mold to perfectly fit individual ears in less than a minute with its patented Lightform technology. This goes beyond the standard tip sizes of small, medium and large. From podcasts and playlists on morning commutes, to conference calls while working from home or rocking that evening run, these instant, fit-for-only-you earbuds will stay in place for all-day comfort and deliver an exceptional audio experience.

"We are redefining wireless earphones with UE FITS," said Jonah Staw, General Manager and Head of Ultimate Ears Custom Earphones. "For the first time ever, we are bringing instant custom fit to premium earbuds. With the press of a button and in under 60 seconds, consumers can experience exceptional comfort and sound quality from earphones that perfectly fit the unique shape of their ears."

ASTRO Gaming, the leader in premium video gaming equipment, today announced the release of the newest addition to its award winning family of gaming audio products, the A03 In-Ear Monitor (IEM). Engineered specifically for Mobile and Console gaming, the A03 IEM differs from traditional earbuds thanks to the two separate drivers in each ear housing. One driver is dedicated to bass, while the other is dedicated to mids and highs. This architecture delivers a powerful audio experience with a rich soundscape, revealing every detail of game environments and clearly separating voice chat.

Gamers want a convenient way to enjoy pro-grade audio while on the go," said Aron Drayer, vice president of marketing for ASTRO Gaming. "The new A03 IEM expands our line-up with a competitively priced solution designed to deliver the sound quality, comfort and style ASTRO customers expect."

1MORE, a globally distributed premium consumer audio company, unveiled today their QuietMax active noise cancelling technology suite, which is supported on the world's first THX Certified true wireless headphones, the True Wireless ANC In-Ear Headphones ($199.99). As the first ever true wireless headphones to earn THX Certification and now also feature 1MORE's QuietMax technology, the 1MORE True Wireless ANC headphones deliver next level audio and ANC performance. Released earlier this year, the Dual Driver ANC Pro Wireless Headphones ($149.99), feature QuietMax technology for superior active noise cancelling alongside the signature 1MORE multiple driver design for the ultimate sound experience.

With QuietMax technology the two marquee products are set to blaze a new way forward in Hi-fi ANC products. Both products are available globally on Amazon while THX Certified ANC TWS headphones are currently only available on the 1MORE U.S. website. For a limited time consumers can also enjoy a free 2-month Tidal Hi-fi membership on 1MORE's U.S. website when they purchase either the Dual Driver ANC Pro or True Wireless ANC headphones.

Leading value-for-money digital lifestyle accessories brand, Trust Electronics Ltd, is pleased to introduce its newest launches, the Nika Touch and Primo Touch Bluetooth Wireless Earphones, and the Tones and Eaze Bluetooth Wireless Headphones. The new launches offer the ultimate true wireless experience for an incredibly affordable price.

Combining great sound, an extra-long wireless range, portable charging capabilities and a premium, on-trend design, the Nika Touch offers a fantastic listening experience that is ideal for those who are always on-the-go. With a wireless range of 10 metres and Bluetooth 5.0, the earphones make listening to music or taking calls as convenient as possible, without the risk of losing connection. The earphones provide up to 6 hours of playtime from a single charge, however the carry case included with the earphones gives on-the-go charging, making the total playtime of the earphones up to 16 hours; ideal for long working days and traveling. With a stylish design, a secure silicone fit, touch controls and a built in microphone, the Nika Touch is a fantastic option for those looking for an affordable, ultimate true wireless experience.

Razer, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, today announced the definitive esports headset with the Razer BlackShark V2. Featuring the all-new Razer TriForce Titanium 50 mm Drivers, Razer HyperClear Cardioid Mic with USB Sound Card, advanced passive noise cancellation, and with THX Spatial Audio's new Game Profiles feature making its debut, the BlackShark V2 is the new pinnacle of multi-platform, wired gaming headsets - designed and tested in conjunction with some of the world's top esports athletes.

In esports, clarity of sound and communications is everything. Being able to hear the slightest audio cue and communicate clearly with teammates makes the difference between the glory of the win or being a footnote on the tournament roster. For the Razer BlackShark V2, Razer has developed an entirely new 50 mm audio driver which, coupled with a new custom-tuned microphone and superior passive noise cancelling earcups, creates the ultimate triple threat in esports - clear sounds, clear communication, and minimal external noise - a deadly audio trinity.

Creative Technology today announced the launch of Creative Aurvana Trio Wireless, the latest addition to its well-received Aurvana headphone series. Featuring a new upscale neckband design powered by the same high-definition hybrid triple-driver system as the Aurvana Trio - only better, lighter, and wireless. Intricately designed for all-day comfort, excellent audio and call quality, and long-lasting battery life, Aurvana Trio Wireless makes for the perfect audio companion for both discerning audio lovers and casual listeners on the go.