No, they aren’t the Nothing Headphones we’ve been waiting for all this while… but they are pretty spectacular-looking. Meet the Mondo Headphones by Defunc, a pair of over-ear cans with wireless audio and beefy sound that boast a gorgeous transparent body design. Equipped with clear covers on the left and right, the Mondo Headphones are yet another example of the rise in transparency in design. Whether it’s Nothing launching transparent phones and TWS earbuds, or even Beats making a see-through version of their StudioBuds +, it seems like there’s a rise in companies being more transparent with their consumers… literally. The Mondo Headphones come with a design that bares all, allowing you to see the circuitry, drivers, microphones, and batteries underneath the hood. The headphones come with dual-drivers and dual-mics, Bluetooth 5.2, and Environmental Noise Canceling. Plus, a highly affordable price tag of sub-$150 makes them almost a no-brainer to add to your tech gear collection.
The Mondo’s design language feels very reminiscent of Nothing x Apple. The headphones themselves are styled with the air of the AirPods Max, boasting metal stems, and comfortably rounded earpieces that cushion you in your own audiosphere. The headphones fold flat too, making them ideal for traveling with, but don’t expect an Apple-style carrying case with these. (Which may as well be a good thing given how unappealing the AirPods Max case is)
The over-ear headphones come with a dual-driver design, delivering balanced full-range audio. Each earpiece is equipped with a 1.6″ and a 0.4″ driver, delivering a respectable frequency range of 20 Hz – 20 kHz for punchy lows, rich mids, and crisp highs. Dual mic arrays also ensure the headphones have great ENC or environmental noise cancellation, allowing you to listen to music, make calls, or even record voice notes with minimal interference from the world around you.
The headphones boast Bluetooth 5.2, offering quick and reliable pairing, and come with a battery that offers 45 hours of constant playback on a full charge – a feature that’s further enhanced by how comfortable the over-ear plus earcups are to wear for long periods of time. The Mondo has 430 hours of standby time, so your battery doesn’t drain too much when not in use (take that, AirPods Max), and a USB-C port lets you charge your headphones from 0-100 in 2 hours.
The Mondo headphones weigh just 9 ounces, undercutting most brands like Microsoft, Sony, Sonos, and Apple which range anywhere from 11 to 13 ounces. The price is a pretty compelling factor too, with a $144.9 tag for a pair of plush headphones with ENC. On the other hand, you do have controls for volume on the Mondo, and there’s a palpable lack of a dedicated button for your phone’s Voice AI like Siri on the AirPods Max. That shouldn’t be a deterrent though, for the budget range. The Mondo Headphones also ship with a USB-C charging cable and a coiled 1/8-inch audio cord for versatile listening options.
Small enough to fit in a pocket, lighter than an iPhone, but equipped with a 25+ sound bank, MIDI capabilities, 25 keys, and its own built-in speaker system, the EASYPLAY 1s might just be the easiest way to play music anywhere you go. Music instruments, whether digital or physical, have had a problem of being too expensive, too bulky, or both. The $99 EASYPLAY 1s makes music production and even jamming as simple as pulling the MIDI synth out of your pocket and starting to play. It comes with multiple instruments built-in, a drum machine for you to drop beats, and knobs that let you change octaves and instruments in mere seconds. When you’re done playing with the built-in instrument packs, the EASYPLAY can hook to your laptop or tablet, working as an external synth to let you access millions of other instruments… or even build your own.
The beauty of the EASYPLAY 1s is that it rejects the status quo with a design that feels fresh, fun, and inviting. It doesn’t look like an electronic keyboard or piano, and opts for a more retro-funk design that’s reminiscent of something Teenage Engineering would create. The EASYPLAY 1s comes with colored keys, the ability to change keycaps, and a design that encourages endless experimentation. When you start playing with the EASYPLAY 1s, you start afresh – the entire experience feels new, which means you learn new things, stumble across new patterns, and create something that feels absolutely original. With time, muscle memory kicks in, and your fingers figure out how to dance across the EASYPLAY 1s’ 25-key interface.
Think of the Casio synthesizers back in the 80s and 90s, and imagine it condensed down into the size smaller than a Nintendo Switch. The EASYPLAY 1s has a small form factor that can be either used handheld, or even kept on a tabletop surface. Switch it on and it starts working off the bat, allowing you to choose instruments, set your pitch or octave, and begin playing. A set of two 2W speakers on each side is enough to play solo, or if you want something a little more comprehensive, a 3.5mm input lets you hook the EASYPLAY 1s to a set of headphones or even a speaker system. Want to go a step further? A USB-C port lets you hook the device to a computer or tablet running any DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), effectively turning your EASYPLAY 1s into an external synth. Use it to jam, produce music, or even play samples and loops during a deejay set. Heck, you could even use the EASYPLAY 1s as a gaming controller for games like Guitar Hero, or a slew of other key-smashing games.
The small, lightweight device packs its own 25+ bank of music instruments. You can choose between traditional instruments like a guitar, piano, accordion, saxophone, or go more electronic with waveforms like sawtooth or square waves. Two knobs on either side let you choose instruments or octaves, while keys at the center become your MIDI pads, allowing you to tap for singular notes, or press multiple buttons together to create chords. There’s also a built-in metronome that makes playing in rhythm easy when you’re learning or composing, and Bluetooth capabilities that let you connect your EASYPLAY 1s to a smartphone and play along with your favorite songs on Spotify or any other streaming service.
What sets the EASYPLAY 1s apart is its incredibly low barrier for entry. At $99, it’s more affordable than most regular instruments, making it a great addition to your music arsenal, or even a perfect first gift for a youngster interested in music production. The entire device weighs around 6 ounces (170 grams) and is made of durable ABS and Silicone, making it impervious to rough usage. The $99 variant will get you one EASYPLAY 1s and a set of stickers to put on the keys, or upgrade to the full package for $129, which also includes a lanyard, a carry case, and four sets of keycaps to replace the current ones, for a more themed music experience.
Learning a musical instrument is often a demanding yet rewarding journey that requires consistent practice, dedication, and the right environment. For many musicians, especially flutists, the challenge is not just mastering the instrument but also finding a space where they can practice without disturbing those around them. Practicing inherently involves experimenting with the instrument, which can lead to playing a few bad notes—a normal part of the learning process that others may find disturbing. Addressing this issue, FlüGo emerges as a revolutionary concept in flute training, combining technology, flexibility, and respect for others into one comprehensive solution.
Designer: Junyi Chen,Huijie Qu, Jinze Li, and Jingzhe Zhang
Every musician faces the challenge of creating a nuisance at some point. Even the most proficient players may need to halt their practice sessions due to noise complaints. For flutists, this challenge is particularly enunciated due to the nature of the instrument and the lack of adequate, soundproof practice spaces. FlüGo aims to tackle this issue head-on, offering a smart training kit that allows flutists to practice wherever they are without causing disturbances. The kit includes a modular instrument, a foldable music stand, and a collapsible support. This innovative setup allows for high mobility and flexibility, making it ideal for flutists who need to practice in various environments.
At the core of FluGo is an interchangeable smart head joint that integrates advanced technology to simulate realistic flute sounds. By combining data on airflow and finger movements, it emits a lifelike sound through directional speakers, ensuring that the music is confined to the player’s area. This means that the sound only reaches where it is intended, providing privacy and minimizing disturbance to others.
FluGo is more than just a practical solution for noise control. It represents a significant step forward in making musical practice more accessible and less intrusive. In a world where learning a musical instrument can be seen as a niche or even a luxury activity, it democratizes access to musical education. It breaks down logistical barriers that have traditionally isolated musicians, particularly those who play louder instruments like drums and wind instruments.
Beyond noise control, it opens up new avenues for learning and connection. The device’s ability to record and analyze performances, access interactive educational content, and connect with other flutists transforms it into a tool for growth and cultural exchange. Musicians can share their experiences, seek advice, and draw inspiration from a global community of enthusiasts.
Moreover, FluGo features a folding smart sheet music terminal that automatically turns pages, allowing flutists to focus solely on their playing. The system also records performances and offers real-time sound simulation, making it a comprehensive tool for both practice and performance review.
YouTube Music for Android is finally releasing a long-awaited tool that lets people hum a song to search for it, in addition to singing the tune or playing the melody on an instrument, according to reporting by 9to5Google. The software has been in the testing phase since March.
All you have to do is tap the magnifying glass in the top-right corner and look for the waveform icon next to the microphone icon. Tap the waveform icon and start humming or singing. A fullscreen results page should quickly bring up the cover art, song name, artist, album, release year and other important data about the song. The software builds upon the Pixel’s Now Playing feature, which uses AI to “match the sound to the original recording.”
The tool comes in a server-side update with version 7.02 of YouTube Music for Android. There doesn’t look to be any availability information for the iOS release, though it’s most likely headed our way in the near future.
You don't need to be @KidCudi to use Hum to Search. Hum a song into your Google app, and we'll identify it for you. Test it with your favorite songs, or use it to figure out the song that's been stuck in your head and find your new favorite. 🎶 pic.twitter.com/MluVNesTpE
This type of feature isn’t exactly new, even if it’s new to YouTube Music. Google Search rolled out a similar tool back in 2020 and the regular YouTube app began offering something like this last year. Online music streaming platform Deezer also has a “hum to search” tool, released back in 2022.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/you-can-now-hum-to-find-a-song-on-youtube-music-for-android-190037510.html?src=rss
Mercedes-Benz as an automotive icon has set the tone for the 21st century with supercars like AMG GT and the CLA concept. The German marque has pushed the limits of automotive technology, design aesthetics and luxurious comfort for purists who desire nothing but the best with the least strings attached.
Lately, we had a fancy for wild concepts like the Dresscode which is inspired by the smooth silhouettes of a classy suit and now we’ve tripped over another Mercedes-Benz supercar concept that derives inspiration from the beauty of silent luxury. This core idea is combined with the shapes of musical instruments (a Harp to be precise) to create a concept that harmonizes the pure and geometric form. Thus the namesake, Mercedes-Benz Harp!
The front of the concept Mercedes car is inspired by the W196R Formula-1 racing car developed for the 1954 and 1955 seasons. Of course, the front grille is not that open and is streamlined along the front seam for a more modern aesthetic look. This is combined with the asymmetric windshield panel to the rear which has a polygon and pure sculpture shape. The contrast between the contoured front and the sharp rear gives the HARP a distinct persona. It’s just like a god-like figure draped in the most beautiful costume.
The way those strings are aligned with the rear explains the asymmetric shape of the rear which when viewed from the top looks like a Harp in motion. Even the rear lights are shaped like strings which I think should trickle down to a real car coming from Mercedes Benz. Moving on to the interiors, they have two contrasting sections – a silent compartment for people who seek solitude and an open compartment for people who want to socialize.
The Mercedes-Benz Harp concept is an interesting take on silent luxury, artist forms and the pleasure of driving. And yes, I almost forgot to mention the contrasting color hues of matte silver and glossy black!
Earbuds are a kind of accessory you’ll find most common in anybody’s arsenal. They isolate you from the distracting outside world and help you focus while working, exercising, commuting, or anything in between. Extending the usability of earbuds for people with vision problems or in general even the common users who like to turn on their ANC at full blast. Apart from the audio information, the eyes are the best sensors to gauge the environment.
The Cell Buds are an evolution of the good old earbuds into a wearable that assists the blind in navigating crowded spaces or even being aware of what’s around them with sound cues coming from the buds equipped with nano camera units that keep track of any information that may be vital. This eliminates the need for transparency mode to be aware of the space, or even situations where you want strong ANC while being totally aware of what’s happening around in a crowded urban area, essentially making them your eyes and mind for daily life assistance.
These earbuds are loaded with an ultra-compact vision cam and AI to bring all the smart features of your smartphone to this cool gadget plugged into the ears. As a part of the Samsung Design Membership course, Minwoo conceptualized this design to dramatically improve the user’s experience. The on-device AI brings personalized interaction with information available in the cloud and the compact vision cameras keep sensing the surrounding environment around you for any signs of danger or information that might be important to you. For example, an approaching motorist from the left when you are busy crossing the street.
With smart AI, the wearables can be useful for frequent travelers or people with vision impairments. The hands-free personal assistance provided by Cell Buds keeps you from checking your phone, thereby curbing your digital life for good. Design and comfort are prime when it comes to the concept, as Kim has managed to fit a rotating camera unit inside the housing that houses the driver units, microphones, and the battery. According to him, the camera drive unit slightly protrudes from the ear to increase the camera’s field of view.
In this installment of What We're Listening To, Engadget writers and editors discuss some of the recent music releases we've had on repeat. It's safe to say there's some variety on this list.
Sierra Ferrell - Trail of Flowers
Sierra Ferrell seems almost like an anachronism in 2024, but in the best possible way. She has this effortless, old-timey country style that is at points reminiscent of the likes of The Carter Family or Flatt and Scruggs (her brilliant covers of songs once performed by the latter duo are permanently seared into my brain), and it’s just so refreshing. Trail of Flowers, Ferrell’s second studio album, toes a little further into a more modern sound, but it maintains this deeply Americana feel that just seems to roll off the West Virginia-born artist so naturally.
Country music isn’t just one thing, and neither is Trail of Flowers. It meanders through different flavors — folk, bluegrass, hints of jazz — but it manages to do so in a way that feels cohesive when it’s all taken together. The wistful “American Dreaming” and “Wish You Well” are offset by sillier, whimsical numbers like “I Could Drive You Crazy” or the deep cut cover, “Chitlin' Cookin' Time in Cheatham County.” Tracks like “Money Train,” “I’ll Come Off the Mountain” and “Lighthouse” are instantly catchy. “Why Haven’t You Loved Me Yet” and “No Letter” feel like classics in the making.
And then there’s the cheekily sinister, scorned-lover’s lament, “Rosemary.” It’s one of the songs that first got me hooked on Sierra Ferrell years ago, as I imagine is the case for a lot of fans who have followed Ferrell’s career since her busking days or her unforgettable GemsOnVHS performances. I was almost nervous to hear it on Trail of Flowers, with a full production, after loving the raw, stripped-down recording I’ve been replaying on YouTube for so long. But they’ve done a beautiful job of capturing that magic, and “Rosemary” may be my favorite track on the album. It’s hard to pick, though.
Castle Rat - Into the Realm
Sometime early last year, I discovered something I didn’t realize was missing from my life: medieval fantasy doom metal. I was at a show at the gloriously trippy Brooklyn Made watching an opener ahead of the band I’d gone there to see, and unexpectedly found myself witness to an on-stage choreographed sword fight (well, there was a scythe involved too) between a woman in chainmail and someone wearing a hooded rat mask and lingerie. I’d already been enraptured by the band’s heavy, immersive riffs and the singer’s hypnotic 1970s-esque vocals, but in that moment, yeah, things really clicked into place. This was my introduction to Castle Rat, and it was a damn good one.
I’ve been eagerly awaiting the release of their debut album ever since, and from the second it dropped last month — an LP called Into the Realm — I’ve pretty much been playing it on a nonstop loop. It would actually be embarrassing if you were to check the number of times I’ve listened to the album’s standout ballad, “Cry For Me.” It is a haunting, emotional song that really takes you on a journey and I’m a little obsessed with it. Into the Realm opens strong with the boppy “Dagger Dragger,” and some real heavy-hitters follow in tracks like “Feed the Dream,” “Fresh Fur” and “Nightblood.” “Red Sands” is a slow-building powerhouse, and I’ve even found myself loving the three roughly minute-long instrumental interludes that tie the whole album together.
Doom bands love a good theme (as do I), and we tend to see a lot of weed, witchcraft, science fiction and fantasy pop up throughout the subgenres that fall under this umbrella. Castle Rat definitely isn’t the first to have a shtick, but there’s a certain freshness to the band’s even more specific, self-described medieval fantasy brand, perhaps because they commit to it so hard. Their ‘70s and ‘80s influences are obvious, yet everything they’ve put out so far still feels original. Some people might find the whole thing gimmicky, but I think it’s working. Especially since they have the chops to back it up. I’m excited to see where Castle Rat goes from here.
Honorable Mentions:
Girl with No Face, Allie X— Another song I’ve been listening to an embarrassing amount these days is Weird World, off Allie X’s latest album, Girl with No Face. I somehow haven’t tired myself of it yet, it makes me go absolutely feral. Girl with No Face is full of synth-pop gems, like “Off With Her Tits” — a dancey, angsty anthem sure to resonate with anyone who has experienced dysphoria around their body image — “John and Johnathan,” “Black Eye” and “Staying Power.”
Club Shy, Shygirl — This is just a collection of straight-up bangers. It’s not even 16 minutes long, but it really hits. If you need an instant mood-elevator ahead of a night out, this album is it.
Stampede: Volume 1, Orville Peck — Orville Peck’s first release in his fringeless era is a duets album, the first part of which was released on Friday and features artists including Willie Nelson, Noah Cyrus and Elton John. I haven’t had much time to spend with Stampede: Volume 1 yet, but I’m into it so far. “Conquer the Heart” ft. Nathaniel Rateliff and “How Far Will We Take It?” with Noah Cyrus feel like they combine the best elements of Pony (2019) and Bronco (2022). Bronco came in two waves, so I expect we’ll see a Volume 2 for Stampede before long, too.
— Cheyenne MacDonald, Weekend Editor
Hannah Jadagu - Aperture
Whenever I hear the words “banger” or “bop,” I don’t think about artists like Taylor Swift. I think about the nebulous musical genre known as bedroom pop. Bop, after all, is right there in the name. Hannah Jadagu is a bedroom pop wizard of the highest order. Her first EP was made entirely on an old iPhone and still slaps, though she has since graduated to real recording studios. Jadagu’s latest full-length on Sub Pop, Aperture, is filled with both bangers and bops, and my favorite is the lovelorn “Say It Now.” Listen to this thing. It just may be the perfect pop song and is absolutely crying out for some road trip singalongs. The shoegaze-adjacent “What You Did” is another classic and would be at home on any decent summer playlist.
— Lawrence Bonk, Contributing Reporter
Justice - Hyperdrama
Justice’s first full-length release Cross from 2007 is one of my favorite albums of all time. Not only did it define the crunchy electronic sound of the blog house era in the late 2000s and early 2010s, it also felt like a new French duo had picked up where Daft Punk left off following 2005’s Human After All. Now Justice is back with its fourth album in Hyperdrama. But instead of being inspired by a specific genre of music like we heard in Audio, Video, Disco’sstadium rock tracks or Woman’sdisco-fueled beats, this album feels more like the soundtrack to a moody sci-fi thriller, almost as if this is Justice’s alternate reality take on the Tron: Legacy soundtrack.
“Generator” is a certified banger and probably the song that sounds the most like classic Justice. “Neverender” and “One Night/All Night” are also highlights, though I think Justice may have leaned a bit too heavily on Tame Impala to give this album personality. “Dear Alan” delivers super smooth vibes and Thundercat makes a delightful appearance and finishes things strong in “The End.”
The one thing I really miss is at least one trulydanceabletrack like we got on all of the band’s previous albums. I also have to admit that some of the songs in the middle blend together in a less-than-memorable way. So while Hyperdrama isn’t the top-to-bottom masterpiece that Cross was a decade and a half ago, more Justice isn’t a bad thing.
— Sam Rutherford, Senior Reporter
Utada Hikaru - Science Fiction
Over the past few weeks, I've mostly been listening to songs from Science Fiction, the first greatest hits album by J-Pop artist Utada Hikaru. I've been a fan since they released their debut album First Love back in 1999, when people were far more likely to be weirded out by the fact that yes, you can enjoy music with lyrics in a language you don't understand. Utada has been in and out of the J-Pop scene since then, and there were long stretches of time when I wouldn't hear anything about them. Every new music drop is a gift, especially this album, since it's tied to an upcoming concert tour, which they only do once in a blue moon.
Utada experienced a resurgence in 2022 when their songs “First Love” and “Hatsukoi” — which also translates to “first love” — were featured in a hit Japanese drama series on Netflix called (you guessed it) First Love. Those tracks are, of course, in Science Fiction, which also includes songs from various points in Utada's career.
The album will take you on a journey from when they mostly wrote R&B-inspired pop to an era when their music became more experimental, and it will introduce you to their current sound, which is both mainstream and unique. While some of the re-recorded versions of their older songs like “Traveling” don't quite hit the mark, it's still a good representation of who Utada is as a musician. As a long-time fan, though, this album isn't just a collection of songs to me, but a collection of memories from different stages of my life.
— Mariella Moon, Contributing Reporter
Caroline Polachek - “Starburned and Unkissed”
There are a few reasons that “Starburned and Unkissed” stands out against the I Saw the TV Glow soundtrack, which is replete with not only beloved mainstays like Broken Social Scene's “Anthems For A Seventeen-Year Old Girl” as well as other original songs from luminaries like Phoebe Bridgers and Hop Along's Frances Quinlan. If cornered, I would say the most brilliant thing about “Starburned and Unkissed,” its greatest strength, is that it's just a little too slow.
Every note stretches and yearns with the impatience of adolescence, verges on running out of air, of snapping in two. Much like the scene of the utterly and equally brilliant I Saw the TV Glow it was written for, it captures the sleepy anxiety of a too-warm high school, overcrowded and isolating. The heaviness of its crushing guitars ebbs and flows unsteadily, mimicking the experimentation of callow hands. (It takes the second try on the chorus for the drums and guitars to all come in on cue.)
It's unstable, hopeful. Caroline's voice — gently mangled by intentional autotune pitch shifts — falls out of key in the song's last few refrains, threatening to derail the dreamy beauty of the past three minutes. It ends abruptly, begging for another listen, another return to a time that can't be recaptured.
Honorable mentions:
“Lover's Spit Plays in the Background,” Claire Rousay — Rousay's sentiment is a perfect album for reading outside on an overcast day. I'm not sure I can pick a standout track, as the experience is really in letting the whole thing wash over you, but this one's close enough.
“Stickers of Brian,” Hot Mulligan — Classic pop punk subject matter (“my job sucks and I hate everyone”) but my god what an earworm.
“On Brand,” Ekko Astral — Levels of snottiness previously considered unachievable. Hard not to love what a beautiful mess these folks make.
“Cometh the Storm,” High on Fire — Most of High on Fire's 20+ years of output sounds like — and lyrically is probably about — an axe-wielding barbarian ripping a bong, or whatever other D&D nonsense they're up to. (I say this lovingly. I adore High on Fire.) The title track off the new one is… unusually dirge-like? At first it felt very “old band showing their age” but it's grown on me as an intentional and welcome change. They're not off the hook for using AI for the “Burning Down” music video though. C'mon guys.
— Avery Ellis, Deputy Editor, Reports
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/what-were-listening-to-trail-of-flowers-hyperdrama-science-fiction-and-more-143052023.html?src=rss
Automobili Lamborghini and Technics, both leaders in automobiles and audio equipment, have long upheld traditions of excellence. Each, known for innovation and expertise, continually advances their respective fields. Their collaboration has produced the SL-1200M7B turntable, a product that combines top-tier engineering and design, showcasing the strong capabilities of both brands.
Designer: Technics + Lamborghini
Founded in 1963 by Ferruccio Lamborghini, Automobili Lamborghini set out to create the world’s most beautiful and powerful sports cars. Known for their dramatic designs and thunderous V12 engines, Lamborghini cars quickly became symbols of status and performance. Over the decades, Lamborghini has consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering, achieving a legendary status among car enthusiasts.
On the flip side, Technics, established by Panasonic in 1965, revolutionized the audio industry with its direct-drive turntable technology, first introduced in the early 1970s. This innovation was crucial for DJs, as it provided a more reliable and precise way to mix and scratch records, effectively changing the DJ scene forever. The SL-1200 series, introduced for DJs, is appreciated for its reliability and sound quality, making it a common choice in clubs globally.
Both brands have continuously evolved, driven by a commitment to innovation and a passion for delivering extraordinary experiences. Their collaboration on the SL-1200M7B turntable represents a blend of cutting-edge audio technology and automotive design flair anchored in their shared heritage. For enthusiasts of both brands, this turntable showcases decades of pioneering history and performance.
The SL-1200M7B’s tonearm, a key component in the DJ scene for years, provides excellent tracking performance due to its high-precision bearings and superior initial-motion sensitivity.
Firing up the SL-1200M7B goes beyond playing vinyl—it ignites the visceral thrill of a Lamborghini. The turntable includes an exclusive vinyl record featuring the sweet-sounding engine exhaust notes of six iconic Lamborghini V12-engine super sports cars: the 400GT 2+2, Miura SV, 25th Anniversary Countach, Diablo 6.0 SE, Murciélago LP 640, and Revuelto. These sounds mirror the exhilarating sensation of driving a Lamborghini, where every rev feels like the roaring bull comes to life.
This special edition turntable turns each playback into a performance, highlighting Lamborghini’s rich legacy. The picture disc, illustrating the tire of the Revuelto, adds visual drama to the auditory experience. The package is completed with a custom slipmat and stickers featuring the Automobili Lamborghini and Technics logos, enriching its collectible appeal.
Experience the roar of Lamborghini with Technics’ exclusive gift: a turntable adorned with prestigious logos.
Turning Tables: The SL-1200M7B Combines Top-Notch Audio with Sleek Design
The SL-1200M7B turntable represents a significant leap forward in audio technology, combining Lamborghini’s dynamic flair with Technics’ renowned precision. At its heart is a coreless direct drive motor that provides stable, cogging-free rotation and powerful torque. This feature ensures that DJs can perform without experiencing the interruptions or inconsistencies that can occur with lesser equipment. The motor’s ability to maintain consistent speed under varying loads means that the audio output is always crystal clear and faithful to the original recording.
In addition to its robust motor, the SL-1200M7B boasts a highly sensitive tonearm that uses high-precision bearings, surpassing the performance of its predecessors. This tonearm is adept at reading the nuances in vinyl grooves, translating them into audio with minimal error or distortion. Whether it’s old classics or new cuts, this tonearm ensures that every detail of the music is captured and conveyed with exceptional clarity. The ability to track grooves accurately, even during intensive scratching sessions, makes this turntable a reliable choice for DJs who demand the best in their performances.
Coreless Direct Drive Motor Achieving Stable Rotation and Stylus Illuminator Featuring a High-brightness and Long-life White LED
Design-wise, the SL-1200M7B does not disappoint, featuring a two-layer structure platter that significantly enhances vibration damping. Together with a high-rigidity cabinet and high-damping insulator, the turntable is virtually immune to external vibrations, preserving sound quality even in high-energy environments. The visual aesthetics are equally compelling, with the design drawing inspiration from Lamborghini’s iconic style. This turntable not only sounds exceptional but also stands as a striking piece of craftsmanship that complements any DJ setup or home audio system.
Let’s Set the Right Tone: Power and Prestige in Lamborghini’s Legendary V12 Lineup
Lamborghini 400GT 2+2 (Introduced: 1966)
Lamborghini 400 GT 2+2
Engine: 3.9-liter V12
Power Output: 320 horsepower
Exhaust Note: Smooth yet robust, with a deep rumble that underscores its grand touring capabilities.
Features: This grand tourer blends power with luxury, offering a spacious interior and refined driving experience. It marks a significant early step in Lamborghini’s performance car history.
Notable Design Feature: The 400GT 2+2 features a distinctive, elongated front end and sleek, rounded body lines that exude elegance and sophistication, setting it apart as a true classic in automotive design.
Lamborghini Miura SV (Introduced: 1971)
Lamborghini Miura SV
Engine: 4.0-liter V12
Power Output: 385 horsepower
Exhaust Note: Sharp and intense, the Miura SV’s sound is as dramatic as its appearance, with a high-pitched roar that crescendos rapidly with acceleration.
Features: This is the pinnacle of the Miura line, with technical refinements for improved handling and a more powerful engine setup.
Notable Design Feature: The Miura SV is renowned for its revolutionary rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout that significantly improved the car’s balance and handling, making it a trendsetter for sports cars. Its striking “eyelash” headlight surrounds became one of its most distinctive and iconic visual elements.
Exhaust Note: Aggressive and loud, the Countach’s exhaust bellows with a raw, mechanical intensity that is unmistakable.
Features: Introduced to celebrate 25 years of Lamborghini, this model sports aesthetic and functional enhancements, maintaining the Countach’s iconic status.
Notable Design Feature: The 25th Anniversary Countach features distinctive scissor doors, a hallmark that became synonymous with Lamborghini’s image of exotic performance and dramatic flair. This edition accentuated the model’s wedge-shaped, sharply angled design, further solidifying its presence as a symbol of 1980s automotive extravagance.
Lamborghini Diablo 6.0 SE (Introduced: 2001)
Engine: 6.0-liter V12
Power Output: 550 horsepower
Exhaust Note: Deep and powerful, the Diablo’s roar is commanding with a clear, thunderous pitch that signals its formidable power.
Features: Among the most powerful Diablos, featuring advanced engineering for improved stability and an ultra-modern look.
Notable Design Feature: The Diablo 6.0 SE features a distinctive wedge-shaped body that is both aerodynamic and aggressively styled. Its sharp, angular lines and gullwing doors accentuate its appearance, making it instantly recognizable as a symbol of 90s supercar design.
Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640 (Introduced: 2006)
Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640
Engine: 6.5-liter V12
Power Output: 640 horsepower
Exhaust Note: Overwhelmingly ferocious, the Murciélago’s exhaust has a guttural growl that turns into a piercing scream at high revs, embodying the beast it is named after.
Features: Known for its raw power, the Murciélago LP 640 offers advanced aerodynamics and a robust frame, enhancing speed and performance.
Notable Design Feature: The Murciélago LP 640 features iconic scissor doors that rise up and forward when opened, a hallmark of Lamborghini’s most exclusive models. This dramatic door design not only adds to the visual impact but also reflects the car’s bold, aggressive nature.
Lamborghini Revuelto (Introduced: 2022)
Lamborghini Revuelto
Engine: Latest V12 hybrid technology
Power Output: Unspecified, but includes electric boost
Exhaust Note: A complex symphony of traditional V12 bellow blended with the whir of electric motors, offering a glimpse into the future of hybrid sports cars.
Features: Combining classic V12 engine power with electric motors, the Revuelto showcases Lamborghini’s innovation towards more efficient and high-performing hybrids.
Lamborghini Revuelto 1001-HP Hybrid V-12
Key Notable Design Feature: The Revuelto features a cutting-edge aerodynamic design with active elements that adjust to enhance performance and efficiency dynamically. The exterior incorporates sharp lines and an aggressive stance, embodying Lamborghini’s modern design ethos while optimizing airflow to reduce drag and improve handling at high speeds.
Lamborghini Revuelto
Each of these models showcases Lamborghini’s evolution in automotive design and performance, with their distinctive exhaust notes playing a crucial role in defining the visceral driving experience they offer.
Purist audiophiles always come back to the DAPs and high-resolution audio players to enjoy their favorite music collection in high definition. Sony has a foothold in the hi-res audio game for as long as memory goes back, and they continue to offer some of the best players for music listening. Walkman MW-A306 released last year is a favorite one for music lovers.
Teenage Engineering resonates the same value for its consumers with a broader portfolio of innovative and unconventional audio gadgets. Both Sony and TE have things like modern design, Gen-Z targeting and sublime quality at their helm to attract a niche set of audio lovers. We certainly love TE and so does the community of designers who have been mustering up cool concepts inspired by the Stockholm-based electronics company.
This cool concept of collaborating together the two loved brands is surely going to bring the heat to the likes of Astell&Kern, Fiio, iBasso and Shanling. Interestingly called the Pony Project, the DAP has the design DNA and color theme of Teenage Engineering. It gets a digital display to show the currently playing music and library elements to search for tracks. All the other buttons for toggling the elements like the tempo, loop, mode or FX. The tactile input for the L-Shift, R-Shift, Mic, Select and Start is heavily inspired by the Teenage Engineering aesthetics.
The top of the gadget has the volume rockers, bass and treble, power and stop buttons. A lot of mind has been put into the design and conceptualization of the music player by Evgeniy. The popular color theme of the TE products is so good to see in a DAP which usually comes in contemporary dark hues. If you’ve already not noticed, the audio player comes with the Pony branding which dupes the Sony brand name.
Hot on the heels of the new Beats Solo 4 headphones and Solo Buds earbuds, eagle-eyed fans spotted F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo and basketball star LeBron James carrying what appears to be a brand new Beats Pill speaker. This has ignited speculation about a potential revival of the popular portable speaker line, discontinued in early 2022.
The original Beats Pill, launched in 2012, quickly gained a loyal following for its compact size, bold design, and surprisingly good sound quality. After Apple acquired Beats in 2014, they introduced the slightly larger Pill+ in 2015, addressing some sound quality concerns and adding a Lightning port for charging (likely to be replaced with USB-C in the new iteration).
These celebrity sightings with the new Pill come across as a calculated marketing strategy, similar to how the Beats Pill gained traction in the past. The new Beats Pill maintains the familiar pill-shaped design of its predecessors, measuring roughly 8 inches long and 2.5 inches wide. It retains the clean look with just the Beats logo adorning the front grille. A continuous rubberized strip separates the front and back speaker grilles, and rubber feet on the bottom keep it from rolling around.
For reference, the discontinued Pill+ earned praise for its significantly improved sound quality thanks to an internal redesign. It also sported a Lightning port for charging, which will likely be swapped for USB-C in this new iteration. The Pill+ offered a respectable battery life of 12 hours. While details remain scarce, the leaked images show a design that stays true to the classic Beats Pill silhouette. A lanyard attachment hints at portability remaining a key feature.
