ASUS Announces New External DAC Converter and Headphone Amplifier

ASUS has announced the new Xonar Essence STU, which is an USB external DAC converter and headphone amplifier in one. It is based upon the company's Xonar Essence ST/STX sound cards, which are ASUS' top tier sound cards. The new product is aimed primarily at laptop users, who seek better sound quality and more power for their headphones. 

The Xonar Essence STU delivers a 120 dB signal to noise ratio, a 600 ohm headphone amplifier, asynchronous USB audio, and room for three swappable Op-Amps to allow audiophiles to tweak the sound to their liking. To appease HiFi users, the Xonar Essence STU offers precision clock tuning technology. That along with the aforementioned asynchronous audio transfer helps ensuring accurate and jitter-free sound fidelity. It is also possible to use the Xonar Essence STU as a pre-amplifier, if it is connected to a power amplifier. 

The user can control low and high gain settings on the device itself to match headphone specifications. There is also dual volume controls for separate speaker and headphone sound levels, so these can be controlled independently. The I/O ports include stereo RCA out, a 6.3 mm headphone jack, two digital inputs, and auxiliary in. So there should be plenty of connectivity options depending on what device the consumer wish to output to. 

Source: ASUS

Corsair Updates Vengeance 2000 Headset with Software Driver

Corsair has announced the release of a driver update for the Vengeance 2000 gaming headset that will enable Dolby Headphone® 2.0 and Dolby Pro Logic® IIx on the wireless headset. With this driver, surround sound quality and game compatibility will both be improved. Dolby Headphone signal processing technology offers the ability to deliver 7.1 audio sound while Dolby Pro Logic IIx takes stereo and 5.1 channel sound and converts it to 6.1 or 7.1 channels. The driver is available for immediate download on the Corsair website.

Thermaltake Unveils the Level 10 M Gaming Headset

Thermaltake has been slowly expanding its Level 10 product line, and today it's branched out into the world of audio. The company announced the new Level 10 M gaming headset today, which has once again been designed with help from BMW Group DesignworksUSA. The Level 10 M gaming headset features square ear covers hiding more conventional oval-shaped ear cups and 40mm Neodymium magnets to deliver the audio. The headset features bilateral connectivity, which means you can plug in the cable to either ear cup to suit your preference. An external in-line controller is included for precise volume adjustments. Currently, the headset is only offered in a stereo configuration, though a USB version with DTS 5.1 surround sound is planned to arrive later. Each headset comes with a three meter cable for plenty of give while gaming, plus the microphone can swing up and out of the way when you aren't yelling at your teammates.

Thermaltake's Level 10 M gaming headset is due to arrive in late May or early June for $150. The USB version should launch a bit later in August for $190. Black and white are the two colors currently announced, though red and green are planned, too.

Source: Thermaltake and Engadget

Astro Gaming Updates A40 Headset and MixAmp Pro

Astro Gaming is built around delivering an audiophile experience for gamers. The original A40 headset and MixAmp Pro launched way back in 2007, and while there have been some new additions to its lineup, the A40 has remained a popular choice. Astro has refined the headset over time, and is ready to launch the 2013 version of the A40 headset and MixAmp Pro. The company has refined the quick disconnect system to use a single 3.5mm connection and tuned the drivers for better bass response and lower distortion. It still has the features that made it so popular, like a wired connection, switchable and removable microphone, Dolby Digital 7.1 surround sound, interchangeable speaker tags, and compatibilty with multiple systems.

As for the MixAmp Pro, Astro has made it so game audio and incoming/outgoing voice can be livestreamed over a single cable. It also features new custom audio profiles, a smaller size, and optical port. All of those are in addition to its regular features, like Dolby 5.1 or 7.1 sound, game-to-voice balance controls, and a dedicated voice channel and mixer/preamp.

The Astro A40 headset and MixAmp Pro can be bought together for $250 from Astro's website or your favorite (r)etailer.

Cooler Master Launches CM Storm Ceres-400 Gaming Headset

Cooler Master, one of the leaders in a variety of computer gear, has announced a new addition to the CM Storm line with the Ceres-400 gaming headset. The Ceres-400 features 40mm drivers to deliver the best possible audio, be it in games, music, or movies. Large 90mm earpads help to fit over your ears and give you a comfortable fit for hours on end. The headband on the Ceres-400 can be adjusted to accomodate any size head, which is useful for gamers with larger craniums. An in-line remote control allows the volume to be adjusted or the microphone muted with relative ease. The noise-canceling mic is designed to focus on your voice, but if you do not need it at the time then push it up and out of the way.

The CM Storm Ceres-400 should be available soon for $49.99.

Genius Releases SW-G2.1 3000 Speakers

Genius has announced that its SW-G2.1 3000 gaming speakers are now available in the United States and Canada. The 70 watt set features a 6.5" subwoofer that puts out 40 watts and two stereo speakers at 15 watts each. The stereo speakers have 3" metal cones that play the mid and high range audio, while the subwoofer is capable of frequencies down to 35Hz. A controller is included to provide for easy adjustment of volume and bass settings. The set features connections that will allow for connection to computers, TVs, and game consoles. The speakers carry an MSRP of $119.99.

Genius Releases Cavimanus Gaming Headset

Genius has announced the release of a new gaming headset, the HS-G700V Cavimanus. The highlight of the Cavimanus is the creation of virtual 7.1 sound. The headset also includes a vibration function that can be toggled on and off with the press of a button, while an on-ear volume control knobs allows you to easily turn the sound up or down depending on the situation. A uni-directional microphone is included to enable you to communicate with your teammates or talk smack to an opponent that you happen to be dominating. The Cavimanus is now available at an MSRP of $79.90.

Razer Tiamat 7.1 Headset Delayed Again, Projected for February

This is some bad news for anyone wanting a new headset, but not totally unexpected considering what day it is. Razer has announced its Tiamat 7.1 headset has been delayed and will launch in February, and apologized to customers hoping to get their hands on one. The Razer Tiamat 7.1 was originally supposed to have launched before the end of 2011, but then was moved to January. January has come and gone, and now the first true 7.1 surround sound headset is delayed until February. Hopefully gamers eager to get the headset will finally have it soon, and can enjoy their games in true 7.1 bliss. You can head on over to the Razer blog to see how you can get a free t-shirt and flask when you order the Tiamat.

Fiio Shows Off E17 Alpen Headphone Amp

If you have been following along on the forums here lately, you will notice an uptick in the amount of topics asking about high-quality headphones and even headphone amps. Whether you are just getting into the world of audio or want to expand your collection, this bit of news should interest you. Fiio, known for its line of affordable yet effective headphone amps, has just shown off its new E17 / Alpen USB DAC headphone amp. This is decidedly its new top-of-the-line unit, and includes a 3.5mm output, SPDIF and AUX inputs, and a mini USB connector. The E17 also has a proprietary connector in order to hook it up to the L7 dock or E9 amp. There is even a dot matrix OLED screen so you can easily see what the volume level is at or how much battery life is left. Fiio says the battery on the E17 can last for 15 hours, so you should be able to enjoy it on long trips.

The sample rate over USB is 96K / 24 bit, while SPDIF can do 192K / 24 bit. The E17 is capable of powering headphones up to 300 ohm impedance, which means plenty of sets can be hooked up to it without issue. You can even adjust the treble, bass, mid, and gain controls to better suit your liking, although I have a feeling Fiio knows a thing or two about setting a good mixture.

The Fiio E17 is expected to retail at $150, and should be available in the next week.

Plantronics GameCom 780 7.1 Headset Leaked Early

When CES starts in the next several days, we should be seeing a wealth of new information on all the products coming out this year. A few things do get leaked early, and this time from the company itself. The Plantronics GameCom 780 7.1 headset was leaked early by Plantronics, but this headset has a different appearance than other models in the GameCom line. For one, it has a distinctly retro appearance with the exposed metal and wires, but the internals are all new. It packs 40mm drivers into each ear piece, and makes use of Dolby Headphone and ProLogic IIx to deliver the best sound possible for your games. The GameCom 780 also has reinforced joints and wiring to better protect it when you take it to LAN parties, plus the ear pieces can fold up flat for easier storage. There is a noise-canceling microphone on the headset, a button to toggle the surround sound on/off, plus an on-ear volume wheel and mute switch. The GameCom 780 connects to your PC or Mac via a 6.5 foot USB cable, but the surround sound will only work on the PC.

The Plantronics GameCom 780 7.1 headset will launch on January 10th for $80. The Plantronics GameCom 380 headset, identical to the 780 but lacks the Dolby technologies and USB connection, will only set you back $50.

Finding Speaker Dead Spots with Lasers

In a curious combination of technology, researchers at the National Physical Laboratory have devised a way to make pictures and even video of sound waves as they are generated by a speaker. Many modern speakers suffer from dead spots, where the sound waves it emits will cancel each other out. Manufacturers look for these spots by moving a microphone around a speaker during an experiment, or by using computer simulations, which are not always correct. What NPL has done is aimed a laser past the front of a speaker. Light is affected by the density of the air it passes though, and sound waves change the density of air. This acousto-optic effect produces a phase change in the light which can be measured to produce a map of the sound waves. This technique can have an impact on the speakers used for outdoor events as well as inside our homes.

Energy Unveils Energy Power EM-2.1 Multimedia Speaker System

Indianapolis-based Energy, part of Klipsch Group Inc, today unveiled its Energy Power EM-2.1 multimedia speaker system. The EM-2.1 consists of two compact satellite speakers and a space-saving subwoofer, designed to fit almost anywhere whilst still providing an output of 25W. Each speaker contains a 1.3" fiber composite cone driver, while the subwoofer is equipped with a 3" front firing fiber composite cone. The EM-2.1 speaker system will suit a variety of uses, ranging from gaming, movies or music with the included 3.5mm jack for portable MP3 players. The subwoofer also has volume and bass controls for quick and easy sound tweaking. The EM-2.1 is bundled with a five foot 3.5mm audio cable and should be available soon, retailing at US$99.00.

Creative Launches New Headsets for Consoles and PC, New Sound Card/Audio Platform

Creative Labs may not be the premier audio company it once was, but that doesn't mean its products, and more specifically its headsets, aren't anything to shy away from. Today, Creative has introduced several new headsets aimed at the console and computer crowd, plus a new sound card/audio platform for PCs and Macs. The first headset is designed for the Xbox 360, and it is called the Sound Blaster Tactic360 Sigma gaming headset. It is based off the Tactic3D Sigma headset, and features a steel-core headband and 50mm drivers. It features a powered headset amplifier with voice and game audio controls to help you hear everything clearly while playing the latest Xbox 360 games. The next headset is also designed for the 360, and is called the Sound Blaster Tactic360 ION gaming headset. It is a smaller design that should be lighter in weight than the Tactic360 Sigma, and thus only features 40mm drivers. It also has a powered headset amplifier for voice and game audio controls.

Next up we have a headset designed for PC and Mac users, the Sound Blaster Tactic3D Wrath wireless gaming headset. It features 50mm, red illuminated ear cups with plush padding, a steel-core headband, detachable microphone, and a rechargeable lithium battery. It features included software called THX TruStudio Pro that features audio enhancements designed by Creative and THX engineers. That software leads me to believe this headset connects via USB, which some people do prefer. The last headset will work with PC, Macs, PS3s, and 360s, and is called the Sound Blaster Tactic3D Omega wireless gaming headset. It features FullSpectrum 50mm drivers and a detachable, noise-canceling microphone. Plugging it into a PC or Mac also makes use of the THX TruStudio Pro software, which means it should be another USB headset, though you can also plug it into an Aux-In port.

Lastly, Creative is showcasing a new sound card/audio platform it is calling Sound Blaster Recon3D. It makes use of something Creative is calling Sound Core3D, which is the world's first quad-core sound and voice processor. It uses Creative's patented Quartet digital signal processor (DSP) paired with four independent processor cores, making it the first processor to integrate an "array of DSP cores" with high-quality HD audio codecs of over 100dB on a single chip. It utilizes THX TruStudio Pro and CrystalVoice technologies, each of which feature various enhancements to improve the sound and voice capabilities of the Recon3D. There will be three variants at first, the Recon3D Fatal1ty Champion, Fatal1ty Professional, Core3D, and the Recon3D USB. The first three connect via PCIe while the last is a USB connection.

The Fatal1ty Champion includes an I/O drive with headset mini-jack, volume control, and audio input connectivity options. It also features a "stunning design" and glowing red Creative Sound Core3D processor. The Fatal1ty Professional includes the I/O connectivity on the card itself, and includes a high-quality beam-forming microphone so you don't need to use a headset. The Core3D is the basic version, which includes an integrated headphone amplifier, digital microphone interface, S/PDIF inputs and outputs, and general purpose inputs and outputs. Lastly, the Recon3D USB is an external USB device that features headset ports, line in/out, and S/PDIF input. The S/PDIF input allows for Dolby Digital decoding, plus there is a three step microphone booster on the side. On the opposite side from the mic booster is a switch that lets you toggle between a PC, PS3, and 360. It can be upgraded with wireless connectivty as well.

The Creative Sound Blaster headsets will be available later this year. The Sound Blaster Core3D and Fatal1ty sound cards don't have a solid release date except for an early next year for the Fatal1ty Champion, while the Recon3D USB will be out later this year for a price of $129.99.

Razer Unveils Electra Gaming and Music Headphones

Razer today unveiled its latest headphone offering named the Electra. The Electra is designed to be a versatile piece of equipment for gamers, and will accordingly suit both gaming and music applications. The new headphones feature a strong bass response, along with a clean, balanced sound. A pair of replaceable leatherette ear cushions ensures not only a snug fit, but helps to block out background noise, while a light and bendy headband makes sure that the headset is comfortable for long periods of use.

Robert "RazerGuy" Krakoff, President of Razer USA, said "when true gamers step away from their computers, they don’t stop gaming. The Razer Electra was designed to be the gamer’s trusty audio sidekick, powering their favorite songs and intensifying mobile games with deeper bass and richer sounds."

The Razer Electra headphones include detachable rubber-covered audio and microphone cables, and will be available in October for US$59.99 (€59.99).

Klipsch Unveils New Noise Canceling Headphones

Klipsch has long been synonymous with high quality headphones and speakers. The new Mode headphones add to that legacy, and will provide active noise canceling for those long flights, or any time you just need some quiet. The great looking headphones are now available for pre-order, with a fall 2011 release date, for the the price of $350. Combining a 40mm woofer and 15mm tweeter, the Mode should hit the highs and lows and everything in between. Two detachable cables will also be included, one of which features a three button inline remote from Apple. The active noise canceling feature has an estimated battery life of 45 hours.

Harman Announces AKG GHS-1 Gaming Headset

Harman is an audio company with several notable brands under its belt, brands like AKG, Harman Kardon, and JBL. People tend to take notice when any of those brands offer something new, so this particular item should be of interest to many. Harman has announced a new portable gaming headset in the form of the AKG GHS-1. The AKG GHS-1 is designed for gamers and features Harman's innovative audio engineering and promises to bring PC gaming to a "whole new level of realism, excitement, portability, and comfort." The headset is lightweight and is designed to fold up to make it easier to carry when you're on the go. It features a boom microphone that filters background noise as well as earcups that provide some passive noise isolation, ensuring your game is all you hear. No mention was made of the size of the drivers used, but there is an inline volume control that will adjust the microphone level.

The AKG GHS-1 gaming headset will be offered in a choice of black and orange, white and green, or camoflauge and blue. It should be available now for $79.95.

Cyber Snipa Prepares Sonar 5.1 Championship Headset

Cyber Snipa is preparing yet another gaming peripheral, this time a headset dubbed the Sonar 5.1 Championship. The new headset aims to give gamers the upper hand by providing, as the name suggests, 5.1 surround sound in addition to 3D positional audio. The Sonar 5.1 will feature four individual drivers in each earcup. Comfort is covered by memory foam on the earcups, a mesh padding on headband, and a padded carry case for easy transportation. The headset also includes an in-line controller, a noise-canceling microphone and a three meter cable. The Sonar 5.1 Championship will retail for $79.95 in North America.

Logitech Unveils Z906 5.1 Speakers

The Logitech Z-5500 5.1 speakers are still tops for many PC users, and even some home theater users, but that isn't stopping Logitech from coming out with a new set. The Z906 5.1 speakers are the latest offering from Logitech and this time these are geared more for home theaters rather than computers. The Z906s feature five satellites, a subwoofer, a control unit, and a remote control, but this time the control unit sits horizontally and lacks the LCD display from the Z-5500s. There are a variety of orange LEDs on the control unit which will tell you everything you need to know . The remote control has been revamped and now features a power button, input selector, mute button, and a four-way navigator which also doubles as volume, level, and effect controls.

The subwoofer now houses all of the inputs, which are three analog inputs, one coaxial S/PIDF connector, two optical S/PIDF connectors, and two RCA connectors for stereo audio input. The satellites now connect via spring-loaded clips instead of RCA plugs, which makes it much easier to upgrade the speaker wire for them. Power is rated at 500W RMS, same as the Z-5500s, though the subwoofer has dropped from 187W to 169W, but the satellites have increased from 61W to 67W with the center satellite being rated at 69W. All the satellites are wall-mountable with Logitech appearing to include the mounts in the box, with the whole thing being THX certified. The decoder handles Dolby Digital and DTS encoded audio, plus you get support to upmix stereo sound to surround sound.

The Logitech Z906 5.1 speakers should be available later this month for $399.99.

Razer Launches Chimaera Wireless Headset

Razer is one of the leaders when it comes to game peripherals. First it was strictly gaming mice but then it expanded to encompass keyboards and even audio. Today, we have Razer's latest audio product in the form of the Chimaera wireless headset. The Chimaera is designed with the Xbox 360 in mind and comes in two flavors, a 5.1 surround sound model or a stereo sound model. The Chimaera 5.1 Surround Sound headset uses Dolby technology to deliver the most accurate surround sound possible for Xbox 360 gamers to ensure you survive just a bit longer in an online match. The surround sound and stereo models connect via a base station (which also recharges the headset), but the surround sound model can have four base stations hooked together for some local multiplayer action. Both headsets are wireless with the surround sound model operating on the 5.8GHz frequency while the stereo model uses the 2.4GHz frequency. Both have a maximum range of 33 feet. The Chimaera is a circumaural headset with 50mm drivers to deliver the best audio possible. The battery life on the surround sound model is rated at eight hours while you get four more hours on the stereo model. Both can even be used on a computer so these aren't just for the console gamers, though you will need the proper 3.5mm cables to connect it which are sold separately.

The Razer Chimaera 5.1 Surround Sound headset will run you $199.99 and be out in April. The Razer Chimaera Stereo headset will cost $129.99 and start shipping by the end of February.

Roccat Launches Kulo Gaming Headset

Roccat has just announced its newest gaming periphereal, this time in the form of a gaming headset. The Roccat Kulo gaming headset features 40mm drivers with neodymium magnets so your game audio should sound as realistic as possible. It features Mylar membranes for comfort and padded ear-cups to isolate sound, ensuring your game or music is all you hear. It features a noise-filtering microphone on a foldable boom, plus there is an in-line volume control to give you precise control over the audio level. It connects via two 3.5mm jacks to your computer.

The Roccat Kulo gaming headset will be available this April for €59.99.

Thermaltake eSports Unveils Shock One USB Gaming Headset

Thermaltake eSports has unveiled its latest gaming headset, dubbed the "Shock One." The Shock One is designed with performance and comfort in mind, featuring DTS 5.1 channel virtual surround sound, dynamic 40mm speaker drivers, a leather headband pad and multiple ear-pad cushions for enhanced comfort. The new headset has a black and red color scheme, complete with an illuminated Thermaltake logo. The Shock One also includes ten headband settings for the perfect fit, along with a noise-canceling microphone, a 3m cable and a gold-plated USB connector. An in-line control box allows easy changing of volume and microphone settings. Thermaltake eSports did not disclose details regarding the pricing or availability of the Shock One headset.

Razer Announces Ferox Portable Speakers

Razer is one of the leading manufacturers of all things gaming related, including audio products like the one it is announcing today. The Razer Ferox is an ultra portable speaker set that delivers 360 degree omni-directional sound, just like the old Razer Mako desktop speakers. What makes the Ferox unique is that despite its small size, the audio is not diminished at all since it makes use of optimized digital amplifiers for outstanding performance and power efficiency. Since the audio from the speakers comes out in a circle instead of a cone that faces you, there are no dead zones when you are trying to listen to your favorite music or play your favorite game. The Ferox features an expandable resonance chamber that, with the push of a button, rises the top of the speaker up to deliver more bass. Since the Ferox is designed for portability, there is no external power source needed. The speakers run entirely off rechargeable batteries and the charge should last for up to twelve hours. There is a 3.5mm jack to connect to any system in order to get stereo sound, plus the included carrying cases ensures your Ferox speakers won't be left behind.

The Razer Ferox speakers should be available now for $59.99.

Sennheiser Launches Four New Headsets

Those in the market for a new headset with a fair bit of cash to spend may have found the solution. Sennheiser has just launched four new headsets on US soil today, after a few months debut in Europe. The new headsets are the PC 360, PC 333D, PC 330, and PC 163. The PC 360 is the new flagship model, replacing the venerable PC 350, but this time Sennheiser is basing the headset off the HD 555 headphones and not the HD 380 headphones. This means the PC 360 is an open set which should give you an even bigger soundstage during your games, but also allows noise in and out. The noise-canceling microphone is on the left side and will mute itself when you swivel it up and out of the way. There is a volume wheel integrated on the right ear cup allowing quick access during a game or even a movie. The PC 360 is a circum-aural headset so it will fit completely around your ears. The PC 360 is an analog model meaning it plugs directly into the on-board or discrete audio on your computer.

The PC 333D and PC 330 share a similar design, just the 333D includes Dolby Headphone technology to simulate 7.1 surround sound. Each one is of the closed variety meaning no sound leakage, either from the outside or the headset, and each is also circum-aural. Sennheiser has built its "DJ Hinge" into the right side of each headset which allows you to swivel that ear cup around to hear someone talking to you. Each one also features a noise-canceling microphone that mutes when swiveled up and volume controls on the right ear cup, just like the PC 360. The PC 333D connects via USB while the PC 330 is an analog model.

The last one is the PC 163D which also features Dolby Headphone technology for a simulated 7.1 effect. It is an open model as well, though this one sits on your ears rather than around them. It features a noise-canceling microphone and integrated volume controls, though this time it seems the volume controls are on the cord itself. The PC 163D connects via USB.

All four headsets are available now, with the PC 360 running you $299.95, the PC 333D at $239.95, the PC 163D at $209.95, and the PC 330 at $169.95.

Yamaha Debuts Retro-Styled Line of Stereo Receivers

Yamaha has just launched its newest line of home stereo receivers that feature a distinctively retro look. The new Yamaha R-S line draws its inspiration from audio equipment from the 1970s and '80s with minimal aluminum front panels and large, over-sized knobs. The new receivers are the R-S300, R-S500, and R-S700 and though they have a retro look, that certainly does not apply on the internals. All feature the ability to use Yamaha's YBA-10 Bluetooth audio streaming, iPod dock options, a dedicated subwoofer output, and Yamaha ToP-ART circuitry. The ToP-ART circuitry is part of Yamaha's goal to maximize the digital quality while cutting down on analog circuitry inside the receivers. The R-S500 and R-S700 also feature Yamaha's Zone 2 technology which lets you listen to music and even control the receiver from another room. The R-S300 can deliver 50 watts per channel, the R-S500 can deliver 75 watts, and the R-S700 can pump out 100 watts per channel. If you happen to keep your tuner and amp separate, well, Yamaha has that covered as well with the A-S500 amp and T-S500 tuner. Both feature similar stylings to the R-S line but the A-S500 amp can deliver 85 watts per channel.

All of the new receivers will be available by the end of the month with pricing starting at $330 for the R-S300 and working its way up to $550 for the R-S700.

Logitech F540 Headset Allows Wireless Connection to Up to Three Sources

You may remember the new products Logitech just debuted a while back and saw a new headset in that group. Well, today Logitech has another new headset that is wireless but this time will allow a connection to up to three different sources, even game consoles. The new headset is the Logitech Wireless Headset F540 and you can connect up to three devices to it, including the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. Unlike the previous headset that was 7.1, the F540 is only in stereo but will work with a variety of sources. There is a wireless base station with that connects with a 3.5mm connection or RCA plugs to your game console, TV, DVD player, MP3 player, or other devices, including up to three at once. There is also a noise-canceling microphone that allows voice chat in PS3 and 360 games. The F540 headset can go about ten hours between charges and, due to its rechargeable batteries, you can even let it charge while you're using it via USB. On the headset are separate controls for source audio, microphone audio, mute, and input selection so you can have multiple devices connected to it at once.

The Logitech F540 will launch in October in the US and November in Europe. Price will be $149.99.

Sony Launches New PIIQ Headphone Series

Sony has just unveiled its newest line of headphones, the PIIQ series. The PIIQ series (pronounced "peek") launches with five different headphones and earphones that are designed to look good and sound good. The models being launched are the MDR-PQ1, PQ-2, PQ-3, PQ-4, and PQ-5. The MDR-PQ1 is a circumaural set that is inspired by snowboard boot binders. It is a black headphone with pink highlights to give a unique look. There are two velcro-lined adjustment tabs with a lock-down mechanism on either side to help give a comfortable and secure fit. The PQ1's feature 40mm drivers to help deliever powerful bass while a padded headband and ear cups will ensure you can listen to music for hours on end. The cord is single sided and is covered in elastic to help avoid tangling.

The MDR-PQ2 and PQ-3 are both supra-aural headphones, that is they sit directly on your ears. The PQ-2 is available in three color combinations, black and green shown, features a closed design so no sound gets in or out, and comes equipped with 30mm drivers made of Neodymium magnets. The PQ-3's come in four different color combinations, blue, pink, green, and yellow shown, and features a rubber-coated headband and housing to protect it from falls. The PQ-3's take its inspiration from skateboarders and features the same 30mm Neodymium magnet drivers that the PQ-2's have.

The MDR-PQ4 and PQ-5 are both earphones though the PQ-4's are in-ears while the PQ-5's are simply earbuds. The PQ-4's come in a variety of color combinations and feature a cord slider to prevent tangled cords. It also features silicone rubber ear tips in different sizes to provide for a comfortable fit. There is also a unique ear-clip on the bottom portion to allow it to fit over your ear lobe for a secure fit. The PQ-5's are open-air earbuds that feature a gas mask-inspired design. It is available in four color combinations, yellow and blue shown, and features a bass booster ear piece to provide for deeper bass during songs.

The MDR-PQ1's will retail for $149, the PQ-2's at $79, the PQ-3's at $49, the PQ-4's at $39, and the PQ-5's at $25. All headphones should be available now though the PQ-3's won't be until the end of October.

Corsair Announces HS1 USB Gaming Headset

Corsair is getting set to expand its offerings by announcing the HS1 USB gaming headset today. This marks Corsair's inaugral audio offering and will fall under its Gaming Audio Series. The HS1 features 50mm drivers and an acoustically tuned sound stage which Corsair claims is great for gaming, music, and movies. The headset is a circumaural and closed-back design so it should help to block out any outside noise during an intense gaming session or big LAN parties. The ear pads use memory foam so they should cushion your head without binding or pinching your ears. The microphone is of the uni-directional, noise-canceling variety and it is on an adjustable boom. Since the headset connects via USB, Corsair employs Dolby Headphone technology to provide immersive multi-channel sound up to 7.1. The whole headset is covered by a two year warranty.

The Corsair HS1 headset should be available now though no price was given.

Antec soundscience Speaker System Announced

This coming Friday, Antec palns to introduce soundscience, a newly formed wholly-owned subsidiary, along with its first product, the soundscience rockus 3D 2.1 speaker system. Antec will be making the announcement at this year’s IFA trade show held in Berlin, from September 3 – 8, 2010. The soundscience rockus is designed to deliver an immersive 3D listening experience similar to 3D video. The speakers use soundscience’s proprietary 3Dsst 3D technology to actively analyze incoming stereo audio signals and intelligently place them into a 3D sound field. The rockus speakers also feature a dedicated music mode to allow you to listen to music with clarity and fidelity.

The soundscience rockus 3D|2.1 speaker system features:

• Anodized aluminum satellites that reduce vibration and minimize distortion, resulting in clear mid and sparkling high-range sound
• Active subwoofer with passive radiator technology, delivering an expansive range of bass comparable to larger footprint subwoofers
• 3D-tuned drivers to deliver audio optimized for soundscience’s 3Dsst technology
• Dual-mode operation: 3D mode for enveloping games and movies, and music mode for faithful stereo music playback
• Optical input for playback of digital audio from game consoles (Xbox 360, PS3) and other, similarly equipped devices
• Remote control pod for volume adjustment, 3D/music mode selection, muting and digital/analog input selection

The soundscience rockus 3D|2.1 speaker system will be available this fall for a suggested retail price of $249.95.

Sony Launches New Gaming Headsets

Sony believes that the key to dominating any video game is having the right audio to better find your enemies. That is why Sony is getting ready to launch a couple of new headsets that are designed squarely with gaming in mind. These headsets will be part of the Ultimate Weapon series and will feature two models, the DR-GA500 and DR-GA200. The GA500 comes with a separate box that will turn the audio pumping into the headset into 7.1 surround sound courtesy of a Dolby Pro Logic IIx decoder. That will work in combination with Sony Virtual Phones Technology to create a lifelike 7.1 surround sound to help you locate your enemies in any game you are playing. The GA200 model is similar just it doesn't have the extra audio processing to get the 7.1 surround sound, so if you want that feature then the GA500 is the one to get. Both headsets use a 40mm driver to deliver the audio, have a microphone to communicate with your buddies, and Sony's "triple enfolding" technology for an extremely comfortable fit.

No word on pricing or availability was announced at this time but Sony did say that starting in mid-October, these headsets would come with a copy of the latest Medal of Honor game.

Razer Launches Bright Green Headphones

Razer is getting set to launch a new pair of headphones that are a lovely shade of bright green. The headphones will be called Orca and bear a striking resemblance to the Carcharias headset just without a microphone. Oh, and that bright green hue that encompasses almost the entire set. The Orca headphones are designed for gamers and music lovers who are constantly on the go since it comes with a short braided cable, but no mention was made of how short it is. I expect it to be about 1 meter long since that seems to be about average for a shorter cable on headphones. There is also a 2 meter long braided extension cable to provide some much needed give if you happen to get up and walk around while wearing the headphones in your home. On the technical side, the Orca's pack 40mm drivers with neodymium magnets, a 15 - 21,000 Hz frequency response, and a standard 3.5mm headphone plug. The headphones are a circumaural set so it will go fully around your ears though no mention was made if it is an open or closed set.

The Razer Orca headphones will be launching later this month in the U.S. and sometime in the third quarter for the rest of the world. The price tag will be $59.99 or €59.99.