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Take HD video and record sound discreetly with this $149.97 camera pen

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Future tech update: The bad news is we’re all still waiting for our personal jetpacks. The good news is that we live in an age where James Bond-level tech is accessible and affordable to anyone.

Exhibit A: The iSpyPen PRO, a sleek and professional-looking pen that doubles as a discreet recording device that was featured by NBC and iHeartRadio. Perfect for students and professionals alike, it can record meetings, lectures and presentations, ensuring you don’t miss a single detail. The best part? It’s already on sale, but you can take an extra $10 off the discounted price through March 24.

Say goodbye to missing important notes and details

You almost have to squint to see the pinpoint dot near the top of the iSpyPen PRO, but it’s an actual camera capable of taking 1920×1080 HD resolution video and pictures that come out crystal clear on your choice of playback devices.

You can use an included plug-and-play adapter to upload your clips onto smartphones, tablets, or laptops, but there’s no rush. The internal battery allows up to 75 minutes of use, which is plenty of time for most meetings or classes, and videos and photos are stored on the iSpyPen PRO for 24 hours.

The 128GB of onboard memory means you have plenty of room for recording videos, as well as still images and sound taken with the pen. Over 4 hours can be recorded at a time, and you can opt to include a timestamp overlay that lets you know the time and date your footage was taken. It comes with the adapter, charger, case and extension cable. And, of course, you can write with the iSpyPen PRO.

Never miss another important detail during meetings, classroom lectures or presentations when you grab the iSpyPen PRO 2021 model for just $149.97 through March 24 at 11:59 PM Pacific. No coupon required.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Deals

StackSocial prices subject to change.



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New Samsung TV firmware updates the UI but causes sound issues

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Samsung has launched a new Tizen update for its QLED, OLED, and Neo QLED TVs from 2023, and it’s a bit of a mixed bag for some users. On the one hand, the update brings some exciting visual changes to the UI, modernizing it further in areas that may have felt a little outdated. On the other hand, the update appears to be causing issues for some soundbar users.

Let’s start with the positive. The new update pushes the 2023 Neo QLED, OLED, and QLED firmware up to version 1402.5. The official changelog (via Samsung Community) states the following:

  • Optimization of notifications in the on/off menu.
  • Improved self-diagnosis.
  • Improved stability and security for downloaded apps.
  • Optimizing audio output with Adaptive Sound+.
  • Network connections have been optimized.
  • Voice control in the YouTube app has been improved.
  • Secured by Knox logo integrated into the UI.
  • Fixed source display error when a soundbar is connected via HDMI.
  • Improve SmartThings integration and device registration.
  • General color adjustments.
  • General image quality improvements in gaming mode.
  • Fixed bug with sound playback through external speakers.
  • Minor bug fixes.

We’ve also noticed some visual changes, at least on the Neo QLED QN90C, but also some UI oddities.

Two much-welcomed changes pertain to the Settings and All Settings menus. The Settings menu no longer extends to the lower and side edges of the screen. It’s now presented in a floating banner that has a bit of transparency, and it looks a lot more modern because of it.

Similarly, Samsung has modernized the All Settings menu. It, too, has some transparency now, and its corners are rounder. Furthermore, the font is changed, the list of options to the left is wider, the icons look more up-to-date, and the menu feels slightly responsive, too.

Oddly, though, the “Media” screen now contains an unusual rectangular banner between the “Apps” button and the first app shortcut in your list of favorites.

This banner has an interesting graphic that reflects the background of the “Media” screen, but it doesn’t do anything when selected.

This banner can’t be moved, removed, or edited in any way. It just exists as a UI element that can be highlighted using the remote but cannot be interacted with, which is quite strange.

It’s unclear if this banner shows up on every 2023 Neo QLED, OLED, and QLED TV that’s been updated to version 1402.5, but we can confirm it’s visible at least on the QN90C model.

Tizen TV update 1402.5 causes Samsung soundbar issues

Odd UI elements aside, this update brings many good changes to select Samsung 2023 TVs. As mentioned above, some menus are faster and look more modern. And that’s all great!

Unfortunately, not everything about this update seems to be all good news. Many soundbar users have complained that the new firmware is causing them issues, both visually and sonically. Users on Reddit say they experience random sound interruptions and glitches.

Oddly enough, these issues seem to affect only Samsung soundbar users. The embedded TV speakers work just fine when the Samsung soundbar is disconnected, and other soundbar brands don’t seem to have issues.

All in all, if you have a 2023 Neo QLED, OLED, or QLED TV paired with a Samsung soundbar, you might want to skip the 1402.5 update for the time being.

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Earfun Wave Pro headphones boast hi-res sound, long battery life

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Known for high-quality earbuds that don’t break the bank, EarFun released a set of over-ear cans Monday for the first time — Earfun Wave Pro Hi-Res ANC Wireless Headphones.

Introduced at CES 2024, the new noise-canceling EarFun Wave Pro cans claim high-resolution audio, hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC) and a stalwart 80 hours of playback. And all that comes at a cost of just $80. Actually, even less for early-bird buyers.

This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.

Earfun Wave Pro Hi-Res ANC Wireless Headphones

EarFun Wave Pro headphones’ “polished design and extensive feature set is the culmination of EarFun’s iterative proficiency” resulting from its earbuds development, the company said. Its first over-ear hybrid ANC headphones bring wireless connectivity, app customization and solid ergonomics.

The cans’ hybrid ANC is rated effective up to 45 decibels, which can quiet voices and other mid-range frequencies around you. And active Anti-Wind Noise technology helps when you’re out and about.

And noise cancellation extends to calls, too. Environmental noise cancellation (ENC) technology driven by an AI-powered algorithm removes surrounding noise to emphasize your voice.

Solid sound quality

EarFun Wave Pro headphones
The new headphones put premiums on quality sound and comfort, but for an affordable price.
Photo: EarFun

And as for audio quality, EarFun’s hybrid ANC over-ear wireless headphones come with Hi-Res Audio certifications and LDAC audio codec support (ideal for Android users with compatible devices).

Here’s how EarFun describes sound quality and the accompanying hardware:

Reaching a frequency response up to 96kHz, the Hi-Res certified Wave Pro can deliver music with range while accurately preserving detail. The LDAC certification allows listeners to enjoy the high-fidelity codec with compatible devices and experience the higher end of what Bluetooth audio can offer.

The Wave Pro is equipped with a pair of refined 40mm DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) composite film dynamic coil drivers, producing incredible bass levels, and ultra-clear treble that sustains revealing clarity. Plug-in via the embedded 3.5mm auxiliary port to appreciate EarFun’s dynamic sound signature over large diaphragms with a wired connection.

80 hours of battery life, multipoint connectivity, Game Mode

EarFun Wave Pro headphones comparison
A comparison puts EarFun Wave Pro up against some bigtime competition.
Photo: EarFun

EarFun said it gave its “premier over-ear ANC headphones a battery anxiety-dissolving 80 hours of battery life for a truly wireless experience.” It seems like just yesterday that 50 hours of wireless headphone playback seemed astounding.

And the multipoint connection also takes advantage of Wave Pro’s long battery life. You can stay connected between devices and switch between them with onboard touch controls.

Wave Pro also includes a Game Mode for low latency use. Gaming and streaming experiences benefit from under 55ms-latency to keep input and media in sync.

EarFun Wave Pro headphones: Emphasis on lightweight comfort

The headphones also focus on ergonomic comfort. Their lush earcups provide a gentle but even seal.

EarFun included its companion app to help users tailor their audio experience with the headphones. They can set up and use compatible voice assistance, for example.

Amazingly, even with the low $79.99 price at myearfun.com and Amazon, a limited-time, early-bird special gives you a further 3o% discount. That results in a price of below $60, so check to see if the deal is still on.

Where to buy: Amazon

Source: EarFun



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This new attack uses the sound of your keystrokes to steal your passwords

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Two researchers from Augusta University, in Georgia, U.S., demonstrated a novel way to steal people’s passwords that would put even James Bond to shame.

Last week, researchers Alireza Taheritajar and Reza Rahaeimehr published a paper called “Acoustic Side Channel Attack on Keyboards Based on Typing Patterns” which is just as weird as it sounds.

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iLoud MTM speakers power MacBook Pro setup’s sound

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IK Multimedia iLoud MTM speakers
You can also stand them up vertically, as shown here.
Photo: IK Multimedia

High-quality speakers in MacBooks and Studio Displays and the like are all well and good. But if you want great sound in your computer setup, you’re better off with studio monitor speakers like those in today’s MacBook Pro setup. They’re IK Multimedia iLoud MTM speakers.

The powered pair of studio monitor speakers pump out 100 watts of sound apiece. And right now they’re 25% off at $300 each. Find them in the gear list below if you want to level up your setup’s sound.

This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.

IK Multimedia iLoud MTM speakers power setup’s sound

Redditor Katert (“Kat”) showcased the setup in a post entitled, “My endgame setup.” They run a 16-inch M1 Pro MacBook Pro open on the desk as a secondary display, though they said they might go to clamshell (closed) mode. And the laptop drives a large 42-inch LG C2 Series OLED smart TV.

So on Wednesday we focused on the big smart TV used as a display. And on Friday we cover the IK Multimedia iLoud MTM powered speakers sitting on stands on either side of the display.

iLoud MTM speakers by feature

IK Multimedia iLoud MTM speakers
A pair of iLoud MTM powered speakers are no slouch on quality audio.
Photo: [email protected]

And these iLoud speakers are suitable for computer use or as bookshelf speakers. But they’re of sufficient quality for use in a music studio, as well — even without a subwoofer. That’s because they carry deep bass sound all by themselves, according to the company.

So here’s how IK Multimedia lists the studio monitors’ impressive features:

  • Designed as the ideal studio speakers, as well as desktop speakers or bookshelf speaker, iLoud MTM offers incredibly clear linear phase sound and deep, extended bass down to 40 Hz without a subwoofer.
  • Built-in self-calibration via included ARC mic lets iLoud MTM adjust to any placement, for balanced sound on a music studio desk, studio equipment, even as desk speakers or gaming speakers for PC.
  • Linear phase sound reduces ear fatigue for music production and mixing. Point-source performance delivers audiophile sound at any distance making these ideal desktop studio audio monitors
  • Deep bass down to 40Hz lets iLoud MTM rival any big speaker, large studio monitors or computer speakers for desktop with powered subwoofer or pc speakers for desktop with subwoofer.
  • Compact and easy to mount, these studio monitor speakers offer Atmos bass management and mount to mic stands or mounts for immersive audio that surpasses any PC sound bar or surround sound rig.

Shop these items now:

IK Multimedia iLoud MTM speakers
In addition to setting them horizontally, you can also stand them up vertically, as shown here.

Audio:

Computer:

Display:

Input devices:

If you would like to see your setup featured on Cult of Mac, send some high-res pictures to [email protected]. Please provide a detailed list of your equipment. Tell us what you like or dislike about your setup, and fill us in on any special touches, challenges and plans for new additions.




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Entertainment

PS5 system update that makes your controller sound better is rolling out today

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Sony is rolling out a new PlayStation 5 system update that makes your controller sound better, your screen sharing more immersive and your power indicator adjustable. System Update 9.00 entered beta over a month ago and is available in the public software pushed to PS5 owners on Wednesday.

PS5 system software version 24.02-09.00.00 enhances DualSense and DualSense Edge controller audio. The controller speakers are now louder, making the speakers sound clearer when broadcasting in-game sounds and voice chat. The controller’s microphone is also improved. Sony says a new “AI machine-learning model” suppresses background noises from button presses and game audio, leading to an improved voice chat experience.”

The update also adds brightness adjustments for the PS5 power indicator. You can change its levels by heading to Settings > System > Beep and Light > Brightness. You can choose from three settings: dim, medium and bright (default).

Screen still from The Last of Us Part II, featuring Share Screen interactions. The player’s audience members have arrows (circles with upward-left-facing arrows) at various points on the screen.

PS5 Share Screen pointers (Sony)

Share Screen, which lets you broadcast your gameplay straight from the console, adds pointers and emoji reactions. Your live audience can now use a pointer to show you locations on the screen. They can also send emoji reactions highlighting your gameplay triumphs and tragedies from the Share Screen. The features are toggled on by default, but hosts can turn them off from the Share Screen settings.

The 9.00 update also adds Unicode 15.1 emojis to messages. Less specifically detailed changes include performance and stability improvements for the system software, DualSense gamepads, PlayStation VR2 headset and controllers and Access controller.

If you aren’t automatically prompted to update, you can trigger the software download by heading to Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings, and choosing “Update System Software” under “Update Available.”

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I watched Top Gun: Maverick on a 29-channel speaker system with 16 subwoofers at the McIntosh House of Sound, and the experience was otherworldly

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I recently attended a screening of the movie Top Gun: Maverick at New York City’s House of Sound, a showcase for state-of-the-art home theater and the best stereo speakers that was constructed from the ground up by the McIntosh Group, owner of luxury audio brands such as McIntosh Labs, Sonus Faber, and Sumiko Phono Cartridges.

Film fans will know that Top Gun: Maverick won an Oscar in 2023 for “Best Sound.” At the event, Mark Weingarten, the production mixer, was on hand to share stories about his experience on the movie. Weingarten touched on topics such as working with Tom Cruise and the rest of the cast to get clean, intelligible dialogue, often as they flew in actual high-speed fighter jets with the cooperation of the U.S. military, which I’ll discuss in more detail below.

But, let’s first back up a second. The McIntosh Group’s previous product showroom and experience center, the World of McIntosh townhouse, was closed several years ago amidst the pandemic. In September of 2023, the group renamed the showroom House of Sound and relaunched it in a gorgeous new location in New York City’s Chelsea district.

McIntosh house of sound TV over fireplace showing blue VU meter

The iconic McIntosh blue amplifier VU meter displayed on a TV at the House of Sound (Image credit: Future / Howard Kneller)

In the House 

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TCL Q6310 Soundbar Review: Solid Sound, Uninspiring

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Swapping between the bar’s multiple inputs is slightly more intuitive, with a different LED color assigned to each input: HDMI ARC glows magenta, optical is yellow, the analog input is green, and the USB input is cyan. This color coding has become more common in A/V gear of late, usually seen in active/powered bookshelf speakers like the KEF LSX II, where space is at a premium. In the Q6310’s case, the bar’s center-channel speaker likely takes up the real estate a traditional digital display might inhabit.

Another likely reason TCL punts on the visual display is that, as a Roku TV Ready soundbar, the Q6310 is designed to allow you to control and adjust some settings directly from a Roku-powered smart TV. That functionality stems from a long partnership between the two brands, with Roku taking the reins as the smart interface in many TCL TVs (though TCL now seems to favor Google TV for its more premium models).

Photograph: Ryan Waniata

If you don’t have a Roku-powered TV, TCL’s app makes controlling the bar’s sound modes, volume, and other settings much easier via an iPhone or Android device. Other app settings include a Night mode to keep the dynamics in check when the family’s asleep, a Dialogue Enhance feature, and virtual surround sound control.

There’s also a calibration feature, AI Sonic, which uses your phone’s microphone to adjust the sound to your room, à la Sonos. That’s an impressive inclusion at this price, but the setup experience is quite loud, and I couldn’t hear much of a difference once it finished.

Aluminum Punch

Photograph: Ryan Waniata

My first thought when I started evaluating the Q6310 was that it doesn’t sound much better than a lot of high-end TVs I’ve auditioned this year. The sound is clear and forward, especially for dialog, but there’s a brittle, metallic quality to the midrange and treble registers that can feel as thin as the soundbar looks. To be fair, a lot of pricier TVs these days are outfitted with multiple speakers like soundbars are, so comparing the two isn’t as big of a diss as it once was.

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FocusRite Scarlett audio interface masters setup’s sound

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Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 USB Audio interface
This audio interface turns your Mac into a music studio for two microphones and two instruments.
Photo: Focusrite
If you’re going to make and manipulate music or other sound with your Mac setup, odds are you need a good audio interface. Today’s Mac Studio workstation relies on a Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 USB audio interface when the user makes YouTube videos, for example. Check it out below, along with the rest of the setup’s gear.

This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.

Focusrite Scarlett audio interface masters Mac Studio setup’s sound

Redditor bucketofmonkeys (“Monk”) showcased the setup in a post entitled, “New Mac Studio M2 Max setup.” On Monday we covered his refurbished M2 Max Mac Studio and Studio Display. On Wednesday we zeroed in on his Keychron K8 tenkeyless mechanical keyboard. Today is all about his Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 USB audio interface. That’s an older model, but Scarlett makes a bunch of high-quality audio interfaces, some of which are featured in Cult of Mac’s upcoming feature about the best audio interfaces for Mac. “I’ve had it for about a decade now. I used to make [YouTube] videos and used it to record my voiceovers,” Monk said when we asked about the Scarlett. “Now I mainly use it as a headphone amp for when I want to use my nice headphones (Sennheiser HD 598). It’s been pretty reliable, although the headphone jack is starting to get a little flaky over the years.”

A connector and converter for sound

An audio interface connects audio equipment to your Mac. And it converts analog audio signals from various sources, like microphones and musical instruments, into digital signals. That way, you can alter and record the sound using Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software installed on your computer. The interface often handles digital-to-analog conversion (DAC), too, allowing you to listen through headphones or studio monitors, aka speakers. Many interfaces come preloaded with software, so shop carefully to get exactly what you want. In the case of Monk’s interface, it features two microphone inputs and two instrument inputs as well as four outputs for speakers, headphones and MIDI.

Scarlett 2i4 audio interface features:

  • Two natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamps with plenty of even gain; two instrument inputs. Two 1/4-inch balanced jack outputs to connect professional studio monitors; one headphones output with gain control; MIDI I/O
  • Conversion and sample rates up to 192kHz / 24 bit; low roundtrip latency for using your plug-ins in real time without the need for DSP.
  • Includes Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack and Ableton Live Lite, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite’s Red Plug-in Suite, 2GB of Loopmasters samples, Choice of one free XLN Addictive Keys virtual instrument, all available via download upon purchase and registration.
  • Compatible with Mac OS X 10.10 and higher and Windows 7 and up. Frequency response – 20 Hz – 20 kHz ± 0.1dB. Supported Sample Rates: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz, 176.4 kHz, 192 kHz.
  • 3-year warranty
You can find all the gear in the gear list below, including the audio interface (pictured furthest left in the photograph below, under a mouse and a guitar picks).
Mac Studio and Studio Display refurbs in setup
This user said it’s hard to tell his Apple-refurbished Mac Studio and Studio Display aren’t new.
Photo: [email protected]

Shop these items now:

Focusrite Scarlett audio interface:

Computer:

Display and accessories:

Mechanical keyboard and mouse:

Connectivity:

Other:

If you would like to see your setup featured on Cult of Mac, send some high-res pictures to [email protected]. Please provide a detailed list of your equipment. Tell us what you like or dislike about your setup, and fill us in on any special touches, challenges and plans for new additions.

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See the sound of video games using Audio Radar CES 2024

See the sound of video games using Audio Radar CES 2024

Airdrop Gaming has in designing new technologies enabling the thrill of gaming to be accessible by those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Airdrop has taken a significant step towards this vision with the introduction of Audio Radar, a device that promises to transform the gaming experience for players with auditory limitations. Deaf and hard of hearing gamers can now see sounds using lights positioned around the edge of their screens.

This innovative tool translates in-game sounds into visual signals, allowing players to ‘see’ crucial sounds like footsteps and alerts. It’s a breakthrough in making gaming more inclusive, and it’s compatible with major platforms such as Xbox, PlayStation, and PC.

Audio Radar desktop controller

The excitement around Audio Radar is set to peak at the upcoming CES 2024, where a hands-on demonstration will showcase the device’s capabilities. This event is a chance for attendees to witness firsthand how Audio Radar can improve gaming accessibility and demonstrate the commitment to providing an equitable experience for all players.

See the sound of video games using Audio Radar

Audio Radar’s core mission is to democratize gaming for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. By converting sound into visual elements, it ensures that players don’t miss out on critical gameplay cues. This technology empowers players to fully engage with their gaming environment and react to cues that would otherwise be inaccessible, enhancing their ability to compete and enjoy games to the fullest.

Airdrop Gaming has worked diligently to ensure that Audio Radar integrates seamlessly with the most popular gaming platforms. This broad compatibility means that players can enjoy an enriched gaming experience on their preferred platform, fully participating in the action without any barriers.

Audio Radar let's gamers see sounds

Here are some other articles you may find of interest on the subject of gaming :

The design of Audio Radar is centered around user-friendliness, featuring plug-and-play functionality for easy setup. The device also offers customizable settings, allowing players to adjust the visual cues to their personal preferences and specific gaming scenarios. This adaptability makes Audio Radar a versatile tool that can be tailored to suit a variety of gaming environments and preferences.

For those eager to see Audio Radar in action, CES 2024 will be the ideal opportunity. The demonstration will provide insights into how the device integrates with gaming systems and its role in creating an inclusive gaming community.

The introduction of Audio Radar marks a significant milestone in the journey towards inclusive gaming. Its approach to converting game sounds into visual cues, combined with its compatibility with major gaming platforms, user-friendly design, and customizable options, positions it as a vital device for deaf and hard of hearing gamers. The upcoming demonstration at CES 2024 is set to highlight the strides being made in accessible gaming technology.

Filed Under: Gaming News, Top News





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