Taiko Audio, a Dutch high-end audio manufacturer, has unveiled what might be the most over-engineered music server ever created—the Extreme Server. With a starting price of €28,000 (US$29,600), this meticulously crafted device embodies either the pinnacle of audio engineering or the epitome of audiophile excess. The Extreme's most distinctive feature is its unique dual-processor architecture, using two Intel Xeon Scalable 10-core CPUs. This unusual configuration isn't just for show—Taiko claims it solves a specific audiophile dilemma: the impact of Roon's music management interface on sound quality. By dedicating two processors to Roon and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019 interface, they've made Roon's processing "virtually inaudible", addressing a concern most music listeners probably never knew existed.

Perhaps the most striking technical achievement is the server's cooling system, or rather, its complete absence of conventional cooling. Taiko designed a custom 240 W passive cooling solution with absolutely no fans or moving parts. The company machined the CPU interface to a mind-boggling precision of 5 microns (0.005 mm) and opted for solid copper heat sinks instead of aluminium, claiming this will extend component life by 4 to 12 years. The attention to detail extends to the memory configuration, where Taiko takes an unconventional approach. The server uses twelve 4 GB custom-made industrial memory modules, each factory pre-selected with components matched to within 1% tolerance. According to Taiko, this reduces the refresh rate burst current by almost 50% and allows for lower operating temperatures. The PSU that powers the PC is a custom 400 W linear power supply, an in-house development designed specifically for the Extreme's unique needs. It combines premium Mundorf and Duelund capacitors for sonic neutrality, Lundahl chokes selected by ear, and extensive vibrational damping using Panzerholz (a compressed wood composite) for durability, low temperature operation, longevity, and exceptional sound quality.

Microsoft is introducing Windows 365 Link, a compact cloud PC for business users. The device costs $349 and measures just 120 x 120 x 30 mm, making it smaller than Apple's Mac mini. The compact size comes from the fanless cooling design and the fact that the device doesn't have local storage capabilities. This small computer has quite a variety of connectivity options, including one USB-C, three USB-A ports, HDMI, DisplayPort, and Ethernet connections, supports two 4K monitors, and has Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6E wireless capabilities. The specific hardware details are not yet revealed by Microsoft.

It requires Windows 365 with Microsoft Intune and Entra ID, and it works with 365 Frontline, Enterprise, and Business editions. As with other cloud-based solutions, Microsoft will lock some of the security options, "features like Secure Boot, the dedicated Trusted Platform Module, Hypervisor Code Integrity, BitLocker encryption, and the Microsoft Defender for Endpoint detection and response sensor can't be turned off, further helping to secure the device". Microsoft plans to launch the device in April 2025, with early previews in the US, Canada, UK, Germany, Japan, Australia and New Zealand. Businesses interested in testing the device can contact their Microsoft account team before December 15, 2024, to join the preview program.

NVIDIA today announced incoming changes to its GeForce Now game streaming service, some of which are not likely to sit well with gamers. The biggest, and likely most controversial change coming to GeForce Now is the addition of monthly playtime caps for all GeForce Now users, regardless of which plan they're on. According to the blog post announcing the changes, GeForce Now gamers will be limited to 100 hours of gameplay per month in addition to the daily playtime caps. NVIDIA will allow gamers who don't use their whole monthly cap to roll 15 hours of game time into the following month.

It's not all bad news, however, as NVIDIA also announced that it will be increasing the resolution and image quality of the GeForce Now Performance tier—previously Priority—from 1080p to 1440p. The Ultimate and Basic tiers remain unchanged in both name and feature set. NVIDIA says the playtime limit was necessary in order "to continue providing exceptional quality and speed—as well as shorter queue times." Of course players can buy extra playtime at a rate of $2.99 for 15 hours of GeForce Now Performance and $5.99 for 15 hours of GeForce Now Ultimate. The playtime limits will come into effect on January 1, 2025, and anyone that signs up for a paid GeForce Now subscription before then won't be subjected to the new playtime limits until January 2026.

SPARKLE is launching a brand-new Streamer 4K60 PCIe Capture Card, which comes with 4K@60 / 2K@120 / FHD@240 capture and pass-thru. Dual-HDMI input design and designate software "Streamer Assistant" support PIP function (Picture-in-picture). Compatible with all the mainstream software, including OBS, XSplit…etc. SPARKLE Streamer 4K60 PCIe Capture Card is ready to GO LIVE your every gaming highlight.

4K@60 / 2K@120 / FHD@240 Capture & Pass-thru
As one of the most advanced models on the market, the SPARKLE Streamer 4K60 PCIe Capture Card offers top-tier video capture and pass-through capabilities. Supporting 4K@60Hz, 2K@120Hz, and FHD@240Hz, along with RGB444, YUV444, YUV422, and YUV420 hardware compressions, this card delivers exceptional video quality, both on your pass-through monitor and in your streaming PC.

While it was keen to show off its earlier released Live Gamer ULTRA 2.1 (GC553G2) USB and Live Gamer 4K 2.1 (GC575) PCIe HDMI 2.1 capture cards which have recently got a big firmware update, giving them 4K144 capture, support for 5.1 multi-channel audio, and support for Windows 11 Dynamic Lighting, AVerMedia had a lot of other new things to show at the Computex 2024 show, including the new Premium Go Series, which includes the world's first Capture Dock, the X'tra Go GC515, the Elite Go GC313Pro and Core Go GC313 GaN charger and capture device, new AVerMedia Streaming Center software, and a couple of NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX-based Box PCs for edge AI.

As said, the new AVerMedia Premium Go Series kicks off with the X'tra Go GC515, which is the world's first Capture Dock for various handheld devices. The Xtra Go GC515 does exactly what you think it does, and that is record 4K30 or 1080p120 footage from a handheld gaming device with just a simple click and without a computer. It is compatible with popular models like Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and probably most other handheld consoles. Of course, since it does not require a PC, it records everything on a microSD card. The Premium Go Series also features GaN chargers with video capture capability, including the Elite Go GC313Pro, a 100 W charger with HDMI 4K60 output, USB-C 1080p60 capture, and an ability to charge multiple device. There is also the Core Go GC313 GaN charger and capture device, which allows users to display their video signal on a monitor at up to 4K60 via HDMI while the device is charging.

Gear up, Trailblazers - Honkai: Star Rail lands on GeForce NOW this week, along with an in-game reward for members to celebrate the title's launch in the cloud. Stream it today, along with five new games joining the GeForce NOW library of more than 1,900 titles this week.

Five Stars
Take a galactic journey in the cloud with Honkai: Star Rail, a new Cosmic Adventure Strategy role-playing game from HoYoverse, the company behind Genshin Impact. The title seamlessly blends intricate storytelling with immersive gameplay mechanics for an epic journey through the cosmos. Meet a cast of unique characters and explore diverse planets, each with its own mysteries to uncover. Assemble formidable teams, strategically deploying skills and resources to overcome mighty adversaries and unravel the mysteries of the Honkai phenomenon. Encounter new civilizations and face off against threats that endanger the Astral Express, overcome the struggles caused by Stellaron together, powerful artifacts that hold the keys to the universe's fate. Begin the trailblazing journey without needing to wait for downloads or game updates with GeForce NOW. Members who've opted into GeForce NOW's Rewards program will receive an email with a code for a Honkai: Star Rail starter kit, containing 30,000 credits, three Refined Aethers and three Traveler's Guides. All aboard the Astral Express for adventures and thrills!

SteelSeries, the worldwide leader in gaming and esports peripherals, today unveiled its newest franchise and the first microphone solution that's been purposely built for gamers. With over 20 years of design and engineering expertise dedicated to solving problems for gamers and making every gaming session glorious, the #1 premium gaming audio brand introduces Alias microphones powered by Sonar for Streamers. Now "Gamers Finally Have a Voice."

When gamers stream, they get animated, move around their gaming setups and battlestations, shout with unbridled excitement and enthusiasm, narrate gameplay, and tell stories with style and personality. The current offering of microphones on the market does not address these needs and doesn't allow users to be dynamic, while Alias microphones allow for the freedom and true range that gamers seek. Others have introduced microphone solutions that are 4-in-1, but they are a master of none.

Elgato, a brand of CORSAIR, is proud to announce Marketplace, a first-of-its-kind virtual platform for content creators. On the Elgato Marketplace, creators can discover digital assets of all kinds, all in one convenient website. From plugins to graphics to voice effects, Marketplace offers creators new ways to personalize their favorite Elgato devices, like Stream Deck. It works with popular apps such as Wave Link and OBS Studio, making assets easy to install and customize. In a world of virtual landscapes, Marketplace empowers creators to express themselves and shape their identities.

With thousands of free and premium products, there's a digital asset for almost anyone on Marketplace. For those with a Stream Deck, there are hundreds of plugins to control apps like Discord and Microsoft Teams. Streamers can build their brand with graphics from top designers like Nerd or Die and OWN3D. Meanwhile, podcasters can pull from a library of voice effects and sounds to tune their audio. There's even a collection of video templates and transitions for YouTube editors to produce incredible content. That said, Elgato plans to grow the ecosystem even further in the future, adding new product types like video filters, voice changers, and AR effects in the future.

Logitech G, a brand of Logitech (SIX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI) and leading innovator of gaming technologies and gear, announced the new Streamlabs Desktop Plugin for the Loupedeck. The new plugin provides Streamlabs creators with simple and powerful controls over their live streams, and direct access to the Streamlabs Desktop software using Loupedeck devices. Loupedeck builds consoles designed to improve the experience of major software programs such as Streamlabs across photo, video and audio editing, design, and livestreaming.

"When we acquired Loupedeck earlier this year we had a goal of providing a more seamless experience for Streamlabs creators from onboarding to everyday use with presets available out of the box for Loupedeck devices," said Ujesh Desai, general manager of Logitech G. "This release is our first offering, which accelerates our goal to bring an ecosystem of hardware and software to creators everywhere, enabling them to focus on doing what they do best, which is make amazing content."

AVerMedia Technologies, a leading provider of audio and video solutions, is excited to announce the launch of Live Gamer ULTRA 2.1 (GC553G2), the world-leading HDMI 2.1 USB capture card. This state-of-the-art device aims to revolutionize the streaming experience for gamers across the globe. Game streamers have been eagerly awaiting a solution to meet the demands of the latest games and next-gen consoles, and the Live Gamer ULTRA 2.1 is here to fulfill that need. This high-performance capture card leverages the power of HDMI 2.1 technology, offering uncompromising video quality with up to 4K144 pass-through HDR/VRR, ensuring that every moment of the gameplay is transmitted with stunning clarity and fluidity. Additionally, it supports up to 4K60 capture, providing streamers with the option of capturing their memorable gaming moments in pristine clarity.

"We believe every gamer deserves the best tools to showcase their skills and passion. With this new HDMI 2.1 USB capture card, we're taking game streaming and capturing to a whole new level," says Michael Kuo, President and CEO of AVerMedia. "Our goal is to empower gamers to create content that truly reflects their talent and dedication."

Bigger, better, bolder. JBL's popular PartyBox speakers have a new headline act, introducing the JBL PartyBox Ultimate. Packed with superior JBL Original Pro Sound, Dolby Atmos immersive audio, and a breathtaking light show moving in sync with your beat, the JBL PartyBox Ultimate will be available in North America October for $1,699.95. The JBL PartyBox Ultimate is guaranteed to level up any party, anywhere.

Feel the sound, don't just hear it. The JBL PartyBox Ultimate is the best-sounding and loudest JBL PartyBox yet, featuring superior JBL Original Pro Sound with two high-sensitivity mid-range drivers and dual tweeters so you can listen to all the details of your favorite tracks, even at the loudest volumes. No space is too big - the JBL PartyBox Ultimate can rock the size of two basketball courts as a pair of 9-inch subwoofers provide thunderous bass you can feel from anywhere in the room. Dolby Atmos puts you in the center of your favorite songs as the music comes alive around you with unparalleled clarity and depth.

Introducing the JBL Authentics series. Striking sound performance meets timeless retro design inspired by JBL's heritage. The portable JBL Authentics 300 is a true decorative piece of the home, an all-encompassing Wi-Fi and Bluetooth smart speaker delivers room-filling professional sound to envelop you in 360-immersive audio - with portability to carry your music anywhere in your home. The JBL Authentics 200 and JBL Authentics 500 home speakers complete the all-new JBL Authentics series, available September 17th.

Room-filling sound throughout the home
Be at the center of your favorite song as the JBL Authentics 300 invites you to experience music like never before. For those looking for superior sound in and around the house, the JBL Authentics 300 offers portable high-performance sound with a built-in 8-hour battery. Delivering distinctive highs and deep bass, enjoy amazing audio performance wherever you are - from the kitchen to the garden or the next outdoor party.

MSI has done it yet again, that is to leak Intel confidential information about upcoming products. In a live stream earlier today, the company put on a slide clearly marked "NDA, do not share!" which confirms the specs of some of Intel's upcoming 14th Gen Core CPUs, also known under the Raptor Lake-S Refresh code name. That said, the only thing that really needed confirmation that is on the slide is that the Core i7-14700K is getting an additional four E-cores.

That said, MSI does provide some insight on what to expect in terms of performance gain over the 13th Gen Core processors and it's not a whole lot. According to MSI, we should expect an average performance boost of around three percent compared to the same SKU from the previous generation. That's possibly one of the worst performance gains ever from Intel, generation to generation, although it is only a refresh, but the question is, why did Intel even bother? The Core i7-14700K does on average get a 17 percent performance boost in multi-threaded applications thanks to the extra E-cores, but this is hardly going to make anyone with a Core i7-13700K going to want to upgrade. Note that the video has been taken down by MSI as of the time of this article being posted.

We've been focused on creating a great gaming experience for our members since 2021 when we added mobile games to Netflix. Our goal has always been to have a game for everyone, and we are working hard to meet members where they are with an accessible, smooth, and ubiquitous service. Today, we're taking the first step in making games playable on every device where our members enjoy Netflix - TVs, computers, and mobile.

We are rolling out a limited beta test to a small number of members in Canada and the UK on select TVs starting today, and on PCs and Macs through Netflix.com on supported browsers in the next few weeks. Two games will be part of this initial test: Oxenfree from Night School Studio, a Netflix Game Studio, and Molehew's Mining Adventure, a gem-mining arcade game. To play our games on TV, we're introducing a controller that we already have in our hands most of the day - our phones. Members on PCs and Macs can play on Netflix.com with a keyboard and mouse.

AVerMedia Technologies, a leading provider of audio and video solutions, is thrilled to unveil the AM350, the world's first USB condenser microphone custom-tuned by DIRAC. With its exclusive tuning technology and remarkable features, the AM350 sets a new standard in audio recording, empowering podcasters, vocal performers, singers, and other use cases to achieve exceptional sound quality and captivating performances.

The AM350 features high-sensitivity capsules and durable metal housing, allowing detailed audio capture and enhanced robustness. The AM350 also offers ultra-low noise performance and includes a built-in pop filter, ensuring clear and clean audio capture. Its plug-and-play USB interface makes it accessible for users of all levels, providing a professional recording experience without the need for additional equipment.

Get into your favorite games faster by linking GeForce NOW to Steam, Epic Games Store and Ubisoft accounts. And get a peek at more games coming to GeForce NOW later this year by tuning in to Ubisoft Forward on Monday, June 12, when the game publisher will reveal its latest news and announcements. Plus, two new games are available to stream from the cloud this week, as well as the newest season for Tom Clancy's The Division 2 from Ubisoft. GeForce NOW makes gaming convenient and easy for members by enabling them to link their accounts from Steam, Epic and, most recently, Ubisoft, directly to the service. Instead of signing into their accounts for each play session, members can be automatically signed in across their devices after linking them up just once.

Starting today, launching Ubisoft Connect games requires members to link their Ubisoft accounts in the app. Once that's completed, members can effortlessly play hit Ubisoft games, including Rainbow Six Siege, Far Cry 6 and The Division 2. Members also have the benefit of library account syncing, which automatically syncs supported GeForce NOW games from Ubisoft Connect and Steam libraries - helping members find their Ubisoft games instantly. For an even more streamlined experience, upgrade to an Ultimate or Priority membership to skip the waiting lines over free members and get into gaming faster.

NVIDIA and VMware are helping professionals elevate extended reality (XR) by streaming from the cloud with Workspace ONE XR Hub, which includes an integration of NVIDIA CloudXR. Now available, Workspace ONE XR Hub enhances the user experience for VR headsets through advanced authentication and customization options. Combined with the cutting-edge streaming capabilities of CloudXR, Workspace ONE XR Hub enables more professionals, design teams and developers to quickly and securely access complex immersive environments using all-in-one headsets.

Many organizations across industries use XR technologies to boost productivity and enhance creativity. However, teams often come across challenges when it comes to integrating XR into their workflows. That's why NVIDIA and VMware are working together to make it easier for enterprises to adopt augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). Whether it's running immersive training sessions or conducting virtual design reviews, professionals can achieve the highest fidelity experience with greater mobility through Workspace ONE XR Hub and CloudXR.

At the start of 2023, EMEET previewed its first-ever self-created streaming camera, the EMEET StreamCam One, at CES 2023 in Las Vegas. Now EMEET, as a global leader in professional audio and video conferencing solutions, is proud to announce the launch of EMEET StreamCam One. This self-created streaming camera has been designed for both personal and enterprise users. This product offers high-quality video and audio, multiple features, and easy-to-use operation.

The StreamCam One is the latest wireless network camera they have launched, which represents an innovation in the field. With this product, users can take advantage of its multi-camera support, high-quality audio, support for multiple platforms, user-friendly operation, and quality assurance.

Streamplify, a new German-based designer and manufacturer of livestreaming products, is proud to announce the launch of its latest line of affordable gear for content creators. "Many streamers have told us how they wished there were affordable options like this from brand-name companies when they first started. That's the kind of kit we are building: you can have your playground for growing your audience and improving your production, without the massive investment," said Nils Klakow, the Head of Brand Marketing for Streamplify.

The team behind Streamplify has a combined experience of over 20 years in the gaming and PC hardware industries, and they are all devoted gamers themselves. With over two years of development, testing, and revision, the new line of products has been created with input from streamers, musicians, content creators, technicians, and video and photography professionals to ensure reliable products that conform to real-world creator needs.

Powerful coolers for large processors on Intel Socket LGA 4677! With the new Enterprise Solution Jet and Stream CPU coolers, Alphacool presents progressive solutions for CPU cooling in server and workstation systems.

The Alphacool ES Jet CPU Cooler is equipped with a new complex 4-nozzle technology. For the first time, it distributes water evenly over the cooler base via four nozzles incorporated into the cooler. Thereby, all cores of the high-performance processor are optimally supplied and thus effectively and precisely cooled. The organic water flow ensures a disturbance-free water flow and thus increases the cooling performance. This method makes it possible to optimally dissipate waste heat of up to 800 watts. The chrome-plated cooler base is made of copper and is ideally suited for server and workstation systems with its extremely high thermal conductivity.

IK Multimedia releases iRig Stream Mic Pro, combining a professional multi-pattern condenser microphone and 24-bit, 96 kHz audio interface for iPhone, iPad, Android, Mac and PC into a single ultra-portable solution for music and content creation. iRig Stream Mic Pro makes it easier than ever for users to share their voice and music.

Multi-pattern Condenser Microphone
With dual mic capsules, iRig Stream Mic Pro offers selectable cardioid, figure 8, omnidirectional or stereo pickup patterns. These patterns range from noise-rejecting to immersive audio, so whether it's recording a podcast, interview, instrument or ensemble, the sound signal is crisp, clear and detailed with easily adjustable gain and selectable high-pass filter.

Samsung Electronics announced exciting new ways for gamers to experience game streaming with the addition of new partners and the introduction of game streaming to select 2021 Samsung TV models and 4K games, further delivering on its promise of bringing the future of gaming to consumers across the globe.

Antstream Arcade is the world's largest cloud gaming service that provides players access to over 1,500 iconic games and weekly new multiplayer challenges and tournaments. Select Samsung TV owners will soon be able to battle their friends and the global community at the best games from the 80s, 90s and 00s, from Pac-Man to Mortal Kombat and Metal Slug.

The Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) announced today that it has released DisplayPort 2.1, the latest version of the DisplayPort specification, which is backward compatible with and supersedes the previous version of DisplayPort (DisplayPort 2.0). VESA has been working closely with member companies to ensure that products supporting DisplayPort 2.0 would actually meet the newer, more demanding DisplayPort 2.1 spec. Due to this effort, all previously certified DisplayPort 2.0 products including UHBR (Ultra-high Bit Rate) capable products - whether GPUs, docking station chips, monitor scalar chips, PHY repeater chips such as re-timers, or DP40/DP80 cables (including both passive and active, and using full-size DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort or USB Type-C connectors) - have already been certified to the stricter DisplayPort 2.1 spec.

Achieving a robust, end-to-end user visual experience remains the utmost priority for VESA's DisplayPort specification, whether across a native DisplayPort cable, via DisplayPort Alt Mode (DisplayPort over the USB Type-C connector), or tunneled through the USB4 link. As such, DisplayPort 2.1 has tightened its alignment with the USB Type-C specification as well as the USB4 PHY specification to facilitate a common PHY servicing both DisplayPort and USB4. In addition, DisplayPort 2.1 has added a new DisplayPort bandwidth management feature to enable DisplayPort tunneling to coexist with other I/O data traffic more efficiently over the USB4 link. This increased efficiency is on top of mandated support for VESA's visually lossless Display Stream Compression (DSC) codec and VESA's Panel Replay capability. DSC bitstream support can reduce DisplayPort transport bandwidth in excess of 67 percent without visual artifacts, while VESA's Panel Replay capability can reduce DisplayPort tunneling packet transport bandwidth in excess of 99 percent when Panel Replay operation is taking place.

Today, Logitech G introduced the Aurora Collection, a new collection featuring the G735 Wireless Gaming Headset, G715 Wireless Gaming Keyboard, G713 Gaming Keyboard, G705 Wireless Gaming Mouse and eight custom accessories. The new collection was designed to be gender inclusive, not gender exclusive, addressing the needs and wants of women gamers while also appealing to all gamers who are looking for a playful design and curated experience. The Aurora Collection has a distinctive aesthetic and design language while also allowing for personalization through custom accessories and color options. It also includes Logitech G's advanced gaming grade technologies like LIGHTSPEED high-performance wireless technology and Blue VO!CE microphone technology. The result is a collection of gear that invites all gamers to come as they are, while delivering the advanced feature set all gamers expect.

"Much of the gaming industry has been stuck in a one-size-fits-all mentality. But that hasn't reflected the wide range of consumers who are focused on self-expression and playing games for fun, and it certainly didn't fit Logitech's commitment to delivering solutions for all gamers. When we looked at our own gaming products, we realized we could be doing more," said Ujesh Desai, Vice President and General Manager of Logitech G. "With the Aurora Collection we've created a gender-inclusive collection centered around comfort, approachability and playfulness that supports our long-term commitment to enabling everyone to experience the joy of play."

Razer, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, today announced the Razer Stream Controller, an all-in-one solution that streamlines content creation and places all the functionality that creators will ever need right at their fingertips. The Stream Controller offers endless shortcuts, easy multi-tasking, and instant access to any function, with near limitless software compatibility through its fully customizable touchscreen, commands, dials, and more.

Streamers and content creators alike can let their creativity flow with the Razer Stream Controller, with its user-interface specifically designed for intuitive organization by prioritizing multi-tasking and customization. The 12 haptic switchblade keys are bindable to an infinite number of commands and macros while the customizable icons allow for easier visual navigation. Powered by Loupedeck, nearly every aspect of the controller is customizable, all the way down to the haptic feedback range, allowing for the ideal level of tactile response. The 6 tactile analog dials provide on-the-fly audio adjustments to conveniently tweak the levels of audio, media, and other channels, as creators manage it all at a glance using the controller's dynamic LCD touchscreen. The 8 programmable buttons also let creators seamlessly toggle between multiple workspaces or activate common commands.