Tag Archives: Music

Apple Music brings its audio haptics feature to all users as part of iOS 18

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Apple’s Music Haptics feature is now live, as part of the official release of iOS 18. This is an accessibility tool that integrates with Apple Music on iPhones. Simply put, it uses the phone’s speaker-based haptics system, which the company refers to as the Taptic Engine, to create “taps, textures and refined vibrations to the audio of the song.”

This is quite obviously aimed toward those affected by hearing loss, allowing them to feel the music. It works with Apple Music, but also with Apple Music Classical and Shazam. The company says it’ll also integrate with some third-party apps, so long as the iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi or cellular. 

To get started, just head into the Accessibility settings menu and turn on “Music Haptics.” An easily identifiable logo will appear on the Now Playing screen in the Apple Music app when activated. Tapping this logo will pause the feature and tapping it again will turn it back on. Music Haptics is supported globally on iPhone 12 and later, as long as the device is updated to iOS 18.

To commemorate the launch, Apple Music has released a series of playlists that take advantage of the haptic technology. These channels have names like Haptics Beats and Haptics Bass, so they are filled with songs with plenty of opportunity for taps and vibrations.

People have already been experimenting with the feature. Some users have suggested that it “sounds like an Atari game” when a phone is placed on a box with Music Haptics turned on. I don’t agree but, well, listen for yourself.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/apple-music-brings-its-audio-haptics-feature-to-all-users-as-part-of-ios-18-184753345.html?src=rss

This ultra-thin portable music player redefines music listening experience

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Portable music players have for long been the staple of audiophiles who cannot compromise on the audio quality of the tracks they listen to. Astell&Kern, FiiO and Sony have dominated this space for a long with their consistency.

Now Steelworks Studio wants these big names to level up their game with the SW-1 music player, which a proposed concept for a DAP that embodies functionality with visually pleasing aesthetics for a unified listening experience.

Designer: Steelworks Studio

A bezeless responsive touchscreen that is encapsulated by the durable aluminum body frame without subduing the retro charm signifies this design leap. The minimalist aesthetic is complemented by the stunning OLED display that fits the vibe of modern audio listeners. This concept chooses the trending silver finish for the frame that has a beautiful volume knob in the bottom center to induce a tactical feel.

The user can listen to their music on the 360-degree surround sound speakers as well as the gadget can be placed in the horizontal orientation. Yes, it’s got an equally robust kickstand for placing the device on a flat surface in landscape mode. So, you’re not just limited to music, but can also enjoy immersive binge-watching on the player.

The SW-1 music player has a very sleek and ergonomic footprint so that it can be carried easily in your daily commute to work. While the form factor is slightly taller than your usual Hi-res music player, the gadget is far thinner than other DAPs out there. Honestly, the height could have been a little less considering the display only occupies around 1/4th of the screen real estate. Anyways, the skim form fits like a charm in hand and that volume knob adds spice to your music listening experience.

 

 

 

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AirPods Pro 2 can now function as Hearing Aids after FDA grands Apple approval

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Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 have taken another significant step forward in redefining personal tech by earning FDA approval to function as over-the-counter hearing aids. This announcement comes as no surprise given Apple’s continued focus on integrating health-related features into its devices. At $250, the AirPods Pro 2 are positioned as a cost-effective solution compared to traditional hearing aids, which often cost thousands of dollars.

Apple is also helping users become more aware of their hearing health through an integrated, clinically validated hearing test. Conducted right from the AirPods Pro 2 paired with an iPhone, the test takes just five minutes. Users simply respond to tones at varying volumes and frequencies, making it a quick and accessible method to check for early signs of hearing loss. The results are then stored securely in Apple’s Health app, where users can track their hearing health over time and share the data with healthcare providers if needed​. Given that 80% of adults in the U.S. haven’t had their hearing checked in the last five years, according to Apple’s findings, this feature could play a crucial role in detecting hearing problems earlier.

The technology behind this innovation leverages the AirPods Pro 2’s H2 chip. Users can perform these hearing tests right from the iPhone. Once the user completes the hearing test, the AirPods Pro can automatically adjust audio settings to amplify sounds specifically tailored to their hearing profile. This means that whether you’re in a conversation, listening to music, or on a phone call, the AirPods Pro 2 will enhance the sounds that matter most to you, making interactions clearer and more accessible. Unlike traditional hearing aids, which can be costly and often come with limited sound quality, the AirPods Pro 2 offers a more affordable and seamless solution. Apple’s tight integration of hardware and software ensures that users benefit from pro-level sound quality in every aspect, from listening to music to engaging in real-world conversations.

The FDA’s approval followed a clinical study involving 118 participants who experienced mild to moderate hearing loss. According to the results, the self-fitting feature of the AirPods Pro 2 provided comparable benefits to professionally fitted devices, with no adverse effects reported. This breakthrough is part of a broader regulatory shift in the U.S., which, starting in 2022, allowed for over-the-counter hearing aids. This effort was driven by a desire to provide more affordable options for the approximately 30 million Americans who suffer from hearing impairments. With regulatory approvals from bodies like the FDA, the hearing aid functionality will be available in over 100 countries, including the U.S., Germany, and Japan, Apple says.

Despite its potential, using AirPods Pro 2 as hearing aids does come with limitations. Traditional hearing aids are designed to be worn for extended periods, offering maximum comfort and effectiveness. While AirPods Pro 2 are known for their comfort, they are still consumer-grade earbuds with a limited battery life lasting just a few hours rather than entire days. Their primary function remains entertainment, and they may not be suitable for people with severe hearing issues. Moreover, this functionality will only be available in the AirPods Pro 2 model, not the more affordable $130 or $180 versions of AirPods 4, which also launched recently.

Nonetheless, this is a critical development for accessibility in personal technology. Compared to traditional hearing aids, which can range from $2,000 to $10,000, Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 offer a solution at a fraction of the cost. Although Apple is not known for affordable budget-friendly products, its disruption of this market underscores the need for more affordable health tech options.

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Apple turned the Voice Memos app into a Makeshift Recording Studio for Artists

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Just like the company practically redefined the calculator with Math Notes for the iPad Pro, Apple’s turned a humble voice-note app into a blessing for musicians who use it to record samples, hooks, and lyric ideas.

Apple’s latest update to the Voice Memos app is bound to capture the attention of musicians, especially those who often rely on their iPhone for quick recordings of new sparks of inspiration. With iOS 18 and the iPhone 16, Apple has introduced key features that greatly enhance the functionality of this simple recording app, making it a more useful tool for creative professionals. The ability to layer tracks within the Voice Memos app turns the otherwise basic app into a ‘sonic doodle-pad’ for creating layered multitrack compositions. Previously, musicians would have to open a separate digital audio workstation (DAW) to layer vocals and instruments together, which required time and technical know-how. Now, with this update, musicians can record an instrumental track, such as guitar or piano, and then layer vocals over it without leaving the app. This simple feature is particularly useful for singer-songwriters, allowing them to develop ideas more organically without the distraction of switching between apps. Recording two tracks simultaneously may sound limiting for professional production, but for quick idea generation and song structure building, it’s a practical improvement. Musicians can also mix the two tracks within the app, adjusting volume levels to ensure that vocals and instrumentals are well-balanced.

Advanced processing isolates the vocal from the background sound, delivering a clean, professional result without requiring additional apps or headphones. This integration offers a simple, intuitive way for musicians to build multi-layered recordings directly on their phones, a leap forward for on-the-go production. The iPhone 16 lineup also introduces new audio processing technologies powered by Apple’s A18 chip. With this boost in processing power, the devices can handle real-time audio adjustments more efficiently. Apple’s new AI software, Apple Intelligence, plays a role in optimizing the sound recording experience, ensuring every track captured through Voice Memos or other apps benefits from smart noise reduction and dynamic range adjustments. While these features may not be as obvious to casual users, they represent significant improvements for anyone serious about audio quality.

Another helpful addition is transcription, which converts voice recordings into text. For songwriters, this feature can make the creative process smoother by providing a way to quickly view and edit lyrics. Rather than having to manually type out or remember lyrics after a recording session, users can now see their words appear directly in the app. The transcription function is easy to use; after recording, users tap on the three dots next to their recording and choose the “View Transcript” option. They can then make edits to specific sections, replacing only the parts they want to change. This integration of audio and text simplifies the workflow for lyricists, allowing them to focus more on refining their craft and less on the technicalities of documenting ideas.

I wouldn’t be surprised if this feature saw further innovation over the years. Sure, Apple’s added more mics for better recording chops, and a dual-track ability to the voice-notes feature. A year from now, they could turn it into a multitrack app with the ability to cut/edit/loop samples, probably within the app. Given that the iPhone doesn’t have a Logic Pro app, expanding the Voice Memos feature to become a makeshift DAW sounds wonderful. Who knows, they could revamp Garage Band too, allowing you to make entire album demos right on your smartphone. Sounds too good to be true, sure, but who knows what the future holds?!

The new iPhones are set to hit the market on September 20, with prices starting at $799 for the base model and $999 for the Pro. It’s unclear whether the new Voice Memo features will come to older iPhones given the reliance on the A18 chip. Given that Apple Intelligence will be made available to the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max, one could assume that at least last year’s flagship Pro models should get this new set of app-based features.

The post Apple turned the Voice Memos app into a Makeshift Recording Studio for Artists first appeared on Yanko Design.

We saw the Gravastar Assassin’s Creed Speaker at IFA 2024 and it’s Just Gorgeous

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Modeled on the mythical Apple of Eden orb from the smash hit game series Assassin’s Creed, this limited-edition speaker from Gravastar comes with a gorgeously grungy design, and even sports the assassin hood on top to complete the visual metaphor. I was walking by at IFA 2024 when my eyes first saw the Gravastar booth – known for its beautiful steampunk tech designs, the company’s booth was sure to impress. I walked over, and the first thing my eyes saw was this almost sentient-looking orb facing my way, playing music. As a passionate gamer myself (I just finished replaying AC Odyssey a few months ago), the speaker instantly stood out. It had a piercing personality, with an oxidized metal finish well known in the game, given its ancient Greek origins.

The special-edition speaker is a variant of the company’s existing Mars Pro, but uplifted with a special colorway, an assassin hood, and a special Assassin’s Creed box. Announced just months ago, the speaker is limited to just 1000 units, of which the company says only 20 or so are left.

Inspired by the Apple of Eden, the speaker’s golden, orb-like shape features intricate patterns and glowing LEDs that could easily make you feel like you’ve uncovered a piece of ancient tech from the Assassin’s Creed world. Its sharp aesthetic isn’t an afterthought either—it’s a deliberate tribute to the game’s rich lore, which will resonate deeply with fans.

Built from a zinc alloy, the Mars Pro has a solid, hefty feel with a meticulously hand-painted exterior to give it that grunge appeal. This metal build not only makes it durable, but it also minimizes vibrations, ensuring the sound stays clear even at higher volumes. And, of course, there are GravaStar’s signature tripod legs that make the speaker look more like a futuristic drone than a traditional Bluetooth speaker. The legs provide excellent stability and elevate the design, making it more of a centerpiece than a background device.

Under the hood, the speaker packs a 20W system with a built-in subwoofer and two full-range drivers, providing rich, immersive sound. Whether you’re blasting out action-packed game soundtracks or mellow acoustic tracks, the Mars Pro handles a wide range of frequencies with precision.

Bass is strong but balanced, thanks to a dedicated passive bass radiator at the back (visible if you take off the hood). This makes it ideal for a variety of listening experiences—from gaming marathons where you need to hear every in-game detail to casual music sessions. It also supports Bluetooth 5.0, offering a stable connection with minimal lag. You’ll have no problem streaming high-quality audio from your phone, laptop, or other devices. Battery life is solid, too, with a 6,000mAh battery that provides up to 15 hours of playtime, perfect for long listening sessions without needing to recharge constantly.

What makes this edition truly special is its limited availability. GravaStar has a history of releasing attention-grabbing, limited-run designs, and this Assassin’s Creed collaboration fits right into that mold. Fans of the franchise will appreciate the thoughtfulness behind the design, while collectors will want to grab it for its exclusivity alone. With only a limited number of 1000 units being produced, this speaker feels more like a piece of memorabilia than just an everyday Bluetooth speaker.

Even the packaging has been designed with the collector in mind, featuring Assassin’s Creed-themed artwork and presentation that further highlights its appeal. From unboxing to placing it on your shelf, it feels like you’re handling a genuine artifact from the game.

All in all, the Mars Pro Assassin’s Creed edition serves as a fine example of how gaming culture and high-end audio can blend seamlessly. With a $329.95 price tag, it’s both a collector’s dream and a speaker that delivers on its promises. Sure, it might not unlock ancient secrets or manipulate time, but it will make your playlist sound legendary.

The post We saw the Gravastar Assassin’s Creed Speaker at IFA 2024 and it’s Just Gorgeous first appeared on Yanko Design.

Alleged fraudster got $10 million in royalties using robots to stream AI-made music

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A North Carolina man is facing fraud charges after allegedly uploading hundreds of thousands of AI-generated songs to streaming services and using bots to play them billions of times. Michael Smith is said to have received over $10 million in royalties since 2017 via the scheme.

Smith, 52, was arrested on Wednesday. An indictment [PDF] that was unsealed the same day accuses him of using the bots to steal royalty payments from platforms including Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music. Smith has been charged with wire fraud conspiracy, wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy. Each count carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The US Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York says this is its first criminal case that concerns the use of bots to artificially inflate music streaming numbers. 

Prosecutors accused Smith of creating thousands of bots to stream the songs. At first, he was said to have uploaded his own music to the streaming services, but realized that his catalog wasn't big enough to produce a large sum of royalties. After other efforts didn't pan out, he's said to have turned to AI-generated music in 2018.

According to the indictment, Smith began working with two unnamed co-conspirators — the CEO of an AI music company and a music promoter — to create hundreds of thousands of songs using AI. In exchange for a cut of revenue, the CEO allegedly provided thousands of tracks per week to Smith, who is said to have randomly generated song titles and artist names for the audio files.

Smith is accused of lying to streaming services by providing phony names and other fake account details while setting up the bots, and by agreeing to rules that ban streaming manipulation. According to the indictment, he deceived streaming services by making it seem the bot accounts were legit when in fact they "were hard coded to stream Smith’s music billions of times." Smith allegedly attempted to cover his tracks by using dummy email addresses and VPNs, while telling his co-conspirators to be “undetectable.”

"Michael Smith fraudulently streamed songs created with artificial intelligence billions of times in order to steal royalties," US Attorney Damian Williams said in a statement. "Through his brazen fraud scheme, Smith stole millions in royalties that should have been paid to musicians, songwriters, and other rights holders whose songs were legitimately streamed."

The case of Smith is in stark contrast to a musician The New York Times profiled earlier this year. Matt Farley has written, recorded and uploaded tens of thousands of songs to streaming services about anything and everything people might search for, from celebrities and marriage proposals to many tunes about poop. Some songs are just a few seconds long, but the practice seems to be entirely above board. He's said to have earned around $200,000 from his music in 2023.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/alleged-fraudster-got-10-million-in-royalties-using-robots-to-stream-ai-made-music-162944343.html?src=rss

Beyerdynamic Elevates Consumer Audio: Hands-On with the Aventho 300 and Amiron 300 Launch at IFA 2024

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Beyerdynamic, the German audio brand synonymous with professional-grade equipment, is making a bold leap from the recording studio to the consumer market. As the company celebrates its 100th anniversary (coincidental with IFA’s 100-year anniversary), it’s fascinating to reflect on its legacy, one that’s intertwined with some of the greatest names in music. From the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and Jimi Hendrix to contemporary superstars like Ariana Grande, Justin Beiber, and Taylor Swift, beyerdynamic headphones have become a silent partner in the creation of iconic sounds. And now, the company is taking all that studio expertise and packaging it into products for everyday listeners, offering premium audio experiences for anyone willing to invest.

At IFA 2024, beyerdynamic marked its centennial year by unveiling two new consumer products: the Aventho 300 over-ear headphones and the Amiron 300 true wireless earbuds. Both products are packed with cutting-edge technology, promising a seamless audio experience that brings the beyerdynamic studio sound to everyday life.

beyerdynamic Aventho 300: Studio-Grade Sound Goes Mobile

The Aventho 300 is beyerdynamic’s latest flagship over-ear headphone, and it brings the precision of the studio into a portable, wireless format. Featuring beyerdynamic’s legendary STELLAR.45 drivers (from their flagship DT 770 PRO X headphones), these wireless headphones deliver the kind of detail and clarity typically reserved for professional-grade equipment. Whether you’re listening to music on the go or mixing tracks on your laptop, the Aventho 300 ensures you hear every note as the artist intended.

beyerdynamic Aventho 300

One of the standout features is the Dolby Atmos head-tracking technology, which offers immersive spatial audio that adjusts to your movements, making it perfect for watching movies or playing games on the go. And for those who need quiet, the hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) powered by dual Sony chipsets will keep distractions at bay. But if you’re navigating a busy airport or commuting, the transparency mode ensures you stay aware of your surroundings without having to take off your headphones.

The Aventho 300 boasts up to 50 hours of continuous playtime on a single charge. With a two-hour charge giving you full battery life and a quick 10-minute charge providing five additional hours of use, these headphones are designed to keep up with even the busiest lifestyles. The Aventho 300 also supports Bluetooth 5.4, multi-device pairing, and high-resolution audio codecs like AAC, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Lossless, ensuring top-tier sound quality no matter what device you’re using.

Priced at $399.99, the Aventho 300 will be available on the beyerdynamic e-shop and Amazon in Q4 2024.

beyerdynamic Amiron 300: True Wireless with a Studio Edge

For those who prefer earbuds but don’t want to sacrifice sound quality, beyerdynamic has the Amiron 300. These true wireless earbuds pack the company’s signature 10mm dynamic drivers into a compact design, delivering deep bass, crystal-clear highs, and precise mids that rival much larger headphones. Whether you’re working out, traveling, or just enjoying some downtime, the Amiron 300 provides pristine audio for every occasion.

beyerdynamic Amiron 300

Like the Aventho 300, the Amiron 300 features customizable ANC and a transparency mode, ensuring you can tune out the world or stay aware when needed. These earbuds also offer up to 38 hours of total battery life, with 10 hours of continuous playtime per charge and a Qi-compatible charging case that provides an additional 28 hours of battery life. A 10-minute charge gives you 2 more hours of listening time, making it easy to keep the music going.

The Amiron 300 is also equipped with six microphones, enhanced with advanced algorithms to filter out ambient noise during calls. Whether you’re in a busy office or on a noisy street, your voice will come through clearly. Multipoint Bluetooth 5.3 allows for seamless switching between devices, and automatic play/pause functionality means you won’t miss a beat if you take out an earbud.

The Amiron 300 will be available in Q4 2024 for $279.99.

Accompanying the two new launches is the Verio 200, beyerdynamic’s open-ear earphones launched earlier this year. The Verio 200, beyerdynamic’s first foray into open-ear sports headphones, offers an entirely new experience for active listeners. Launched in June 2024, the Verio 200 is designed with athletes and outdoor enthusiasts in mind, combining an ergonomic, lightweight frame with a durable build. Its open-ear design with a secure ear stem ensures that users stay aware of their surroundings while enjoying high-quality sound, making it ideal for running, cycling, or other outdoor activities. The Verio 200 was a significant first step for beyerdynamic as it moved beyond its professional roots and enters the broader consumer audio market. With its water-resistant construction and long battery life, it’s clear that beyerdynamic is applying the same rigorous attention to detail that has made its studio products legendary.

beyerdynamic Verio 200

Beyerdynamic’s transition into the consumer space feels like a natural evolution. For a century, the company has been at the forefront of professional audio, helping artists craft timeless music in studios around the world. Now, with the Aventho 300, Amiron 300, and Verio 200, they’re giving consumers access to that same world-class sound in everyday settings, with a consumer-friendly price-point to match.

The post Beyerdynamic Elevates Consumer Audio: Hands-On with the Aventho 300 and Amiron 300 Launch at IFA 2024 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Sony WF-C510 earbuds impress with Ambient mode, longer battery life and comfortable design

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The Sony WF-C500 earbuds have been the company’s budget true wireless option that may not rival the premium WF-1000XM5 but punch above their weight with a balanced sonic sound at a very reasonable price. The TWS earbuds were launched in September 2021 and have been a huge success all these years.

Now Sony has launched the successor to the WF-C500 earbuds with design tweaks, new features, and a price that’s hard to deny. In fact, the buds offer some advanced features that are rare for reputed budget options on the market. For example, including Ambient Sound Mode and multipoint connectivity for a price of $60 ($30 less than the outgoing model) is a deal-making prospect.

Designer: Sony

According to the Japanese consumer electronics giant, the WF-C510 earbuds are 20 percent smaller and 15 percent lighter than the outgoing model. These buds are the smallest ever closed-type designs by the company. The IPX4-rated buds can handle the odd splash or sweaty workouts, and they stay snug in place with a refreshed design that results from the analysis of users’ detailed ear shape data. So, one can be rest assured of a stable fit that’ll be comfortable for most people.

This time, Sony has gone for a more contoured shape on the outside, a flatter button surface and a matte finish for better grip and comfort. The cylindrical charging case made partially from recycled plastic is also thinner and smaller for convenience. Looks like they’ve taken a cue from the book of Jabra Elite 8 Active.

The battery also gets a bump up with a total time of 11 hours on the buds themselves and another 11 hours in the charging case. A quick charge of five minutes will give up to 60 minutes of listening time. Another lucrative feature users will cherish is the two-device Bluetooth multipoint connectivity compatible with Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair. Supported audio formats on the C510 are SBC and ACC, making them ideal for music and gaming.

The sound signature from these earbuds will be balanced with not too much focus on any frequency range. That’s attributed to the 6 mm driver unit and a frequency response of 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz. Combine that with the in-app features including the 360 Reality audio, equalizer settings and DSEE upscaling, and you’ve got a very satisfying sound if you know how to tweak them right. Although ANC is missing, the buds make up with a far better passive voice isolation.

WF-C510 earbuds are now available in four color options – blue, yellow, black, and white – from Amazon. The eco-friendly initiative trickles down to the packaging too as it is 100 percent plastic-free. Being feature-packed and well-designed, the TWS earbuds are going to continue the success of the predecessor for sure.

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Pharma Bro Martin Shkreli ordered to surrender copies of one-off Wu-Tang Clan album

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Convicted felon and ex-pharmacy profiteer Martin Shkreli has been ordered to surrender all his copies of a one-off Wu-Tang Clan album he used to own, ArtNet reported. The preliminary injunction, issued by federal judge Pamela Chen, was made on behalf of an NFT collective called PleasrDAO, the current owner of the record. 

As part of the ruling, the court ordered Shkreli to turn over all copies to his attorney within a week, along with an affidavit confirming he'd done so (under penalty of perjury). He must provide an inventory of all copies of the album, a list of anyone who may have received it and any money made from distribution.

The judgement could prove a challenge for Shkreli. In a May 2024 podcast, he reportedly said he copied the album and "sent it to like, 50 different chicks," while also boasting that "thousands of people have listened to it," according to PleasrDAO's original complaint.

Shkreli — who became infamous for buying and jacking up the price of life-saving AIDS medication Daraprim — purchased the only copy of the Wu-Tang album Once Upon a Time in Shaolin back in 2015 for a reported $2 million at auction. Following his securities fraud conviction, the album was seized along with other assets to satisfy a forfeiture judgement. The government then sold the album in 2021 to PleasrDAO for $4.75 million. 

However, that group sued Shkreli in June 2024, accusing him of streaming the music as part of a "Wu-Tang Official Listening Party" on social media. To promote that, he reportedly boasted in a now-deleted video that he made copies "hidden in safes around the world." In June, Judge Chen issued restraining order requiring Shkreli to stop distributing the album and to appear in court to explain why he should be allowed to keep his copies. 

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/pharma-bro-martin-shkreli-ordered-to-surrender-copies-of-one-off-wu-tang-clan-album-120013576.html?src=rss

nwm ONE open-ear headphones boast unique sound tech and lightweight design to be your daily driver

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Open-ear headphones have garnered a lot of interest lately because of their better-sounding acoustics, lesser pressure on the ears and the ability to listen to the outside world. All these features are very handy when traveling or commuting when you need to be aware of the ambient noises around you. That way you never miss out on any transit announcements or vehicles passing by on the road.

More commonly known as open-back headphones, the options are plenty but finding the one that keeps your music in focus without any sound leaks is important. NTT sonority wants your search to end with its nwm ONE open-ear headphones that employ a deeply researched noise suppression tech dubbed Personalized Sound Zone (PSZ) for next-gen sound.

Designer: NTT sonority

The headphones have 2-way drivers – a 35mm main driver for pristine audio in your ears and a smaller 12mm driver to cancel out unwanted ambient sounds to minimize sound leakage. Together they work to amplify the high and low frequency sounds to create a perfect balance between a high-quality audio listening cocoon and audible peripheral sounds that are important. In conjunction with the PSZ, there’s the Magic Focus Voice technology with advanced beamforming tech to accurately focus on anyone talking to you, and the Spectral Filtering to diffuse other noises that are not important.

All these technologies are developed in-house by the NTT Computer & Data Science Laboratories resulting in a next level three-sixty degree sound that’s comparable to surround sound speakers. It goes without saying that no matter how much technology is stuffed into headphones if they are not comfortable, lightweight and aesthetically pleasing, the whole purpose is defied. Thankfully nwm ONE open-ear headphones don’t disappoint with their sleek form that sits on any ears without being uncomfortable after long sessions of listening.

They weigh just 6.5 ounces and clamp onto your head and ears without any uncomfortable pressure. The promise of these open-ear headphones seems good on paper but how they’ll perform in real life and justify their price of $299 remains to be seen. However, we are confident the pair of cans will live up to their claims and become a daily driver for many audio lovers!

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