Audio Hardware
Ongoing coverage on Audio Hardware.
Latest coverage
Sony revives its WH-1000XM4 headphones as a refreshed $300 option
Sony is reintroducing its WH-1000XM4 headphones as a refreshed model for 2026, offering them at a $300 price point. This move brings back a popular product from 2020 into its current lineup.
'We're offering gamers not just two more headsets, but two different ways to experience their games' — Audio specialist beyerdynamic announces two new, affordable wireless headsets, the MMX 100 and MMX 130
Audio specialist beyerdynamic has launched two new wireless gaming headsets: the closed-back MMX 100 wireless for £89 and the open-back MMX 130 wireless for £109. The MMX 100 features a 275-gram design, detachable Meta Voice microphone, and over 80 hours of battery life, while the MMX 130 is designed for audio enthusiasts with titanium-coated drivers. Both headsets offer flexible connectivity options including Bluetooth 6.0 and a low-latency USB dongle.
Creative's new compact speakers are light enough to fit on my desk and loud enough to shake it
The Creative XF1 speakers offer a compelling balance of compact size, robust connectivity, and impressive sound quality for their mid-range price point. While not audiophile-grade, they deliver clear audio with good bass and treble, suitable for gaming, music, and movies, and include useful features like multiple input options and EQ presets.
Beyerdynamic has two new additions arriving to its MMX headset range, and I'm hyped if they're as good as the…
Beyerdynamic is expanding its MMX headset line with the MMX 100 (closed-back) and MMX 130 (open-back) models. The MMX 100 launches September 1 for £89, featuring 40mm drivers and a detachable microphone, compatible with PC, consoles, and handhelds. The MMX 130, with titanium-coated 40mm drivers and an open-back design for a more spacious sound, is set to release in October 2026.
Sony Locks In a November 12 Launch for the PULSE Elevate Wireless Speakers
Sony has announced that the PULSE Elevate Wireless Speakers will launch on November 12, 2026, for $219.99, with pre-orders starting September 1, 2026. The speakers feature PlayStation Link technology for ultra-low latency and lossless wireless audio, and include AI-enhanced noise reduction for clear voice chat. They will be available in Midnight Black and a White model for select regions.
Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC review - You should probably get insurance
The Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC headset offers exceptional sound quality and superb active noise cancellation, making it ideal for immersive gaming experiences. However, its premium price point of $429 USD and heavier design may not appeal to all gamers, despite its long battery life and versatile connectivity options across PC, PlayStation, Switch, and mobile devices.
As PlayStation fans plan a financial boycott of the platform's hardware and services until August 30, Sony announces that its new Pulse Elevate speakers will be available to pre-order on September 1
PlayStation fans are planning a boycott of the platform's hardware and services from August 23 to August 30 in protest of Sony Interactive Entertainment's decision to end support for physical discs in 2028. Meanwhile, Sony announced that its new Pulse Elevate wireless speakers will be available for pre-order on September 1, with a launch date of November 12, 2026.
PlayStation's $220 Pulse Elevate wireless speakers arrive November 12
Sony Interactive Entertainment is releasing its new Pulse Elevate wireless speakers for PlayStation on November 12 for $220. These speakers are designed to enhance the audio experience for PlayStation users.
Expensive earbuds: When and why it's worth paying more
This article discusses the wide price range of earbuds, from under $10 to hundreds of dollars. It explores what consumers gain by paying more for higher-end audio hardware and consumer electronics.
Keyboard brand Epomaker is getting into the headset game with a pair of $50 open-back cups
Keyboard manufacturer Epomaker has entered the gaming headset market with the launch of its first product, the Epomaker GX1. This wireless headset is priced at $49.99 and features an open-back design, tri-mode connectivity (wired, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless), 50mm drivers, and a detachable microphone. It is compatible with PC, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch, and is available in multiple colors, including black/red and pink.
'Acoustically speaking, we are developing the sound of all future PlayStation audio products' — Audeze marketing director teases what's next for its Sony collaboration, including new audio hardware that is in 'various stages of development'
Audeze, now owned by Sony, is deeply involved in developing future audio hardware for PlayStation. Marketing director Peter James stated that the company is working on new audio products in various development stages, aiming to bring enhanced sound quality and planar magnetic technology to a wider audience through official PlayStation accessories.
Rode NT1 5th Generation microphone review
The Rode NT1 5th Generation microphone offers studio-quality audio with both USB-C and XLR connectivity, making it versatile for music production, streaming, and content creation. While it boasts a low sound floor and high sound ceiling, its lack of on-mic controls and high price point may not suit budget-conscious PC gamers. The accompanying Rode Central software provides essential adjustments for gain and noise filtering.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2 review
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2 gaming headset offers improved battery life and wider software support compared to its predecessor, while retaining its comfortable fit and precise audio. It connects wirelessly via 2.4 GHz or Bluetooth to a wide range of devices including PC, consoles, and mobile, and features a retractable ClearCast Gen 2 microphone. Despite a plasticky build and a high price point, its versatility and enhanced features make it a strong contender in the wireless headset market.
The new Sennheiser Momentum 5 is incoming, but it's not the EPOS replacement you might be looking for
Sennheiser has announced the new Momentum 5 headphones, set to launch on June 16 for $399.99. While featuring Hi-res audio and improved active noise cancelling, they lack a boom microphone and 2.4GHz wireless, making them less suitable as a direct replacement for gaming headsets like the EPOS Sennheiser GSP 670. The headphones will be compatible with PC and Nintendo Switch via Bluetooth or a 3.5mm cable, but not natively with PlayStation 5.
I won't say 'no' to another budget gaming headset, but Glorious hasn't yet perfected the formula
The Glorious GHS Eternal wired gaming headset offers decent audio and a comfortable build for its $60 price point, but falls short of competing with similarly priced or slightly more expensive options like the Corsair HS55 Stereo. While its 40mm drivers and detachable microphone perform adequately for gaming and calls, the headset lacks sound isolation and its audio quality is not exceptional. An RGB variant is also available for $90, offering additional features but not necessarily justifying the increased cost.
RIG Drops R8 SPECTRE PRO Headsets With Dual-Wireless And 60 Hour Battery
NACON has launched the RIG R8 SPECTRE PRO line of premium wireless gaming headsets, featuring the HS model for PlayStation and the HX model for Xbox. These headsets boast graphene drivers, dual-wireless connectivity for simultaneous 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connections, and over 60 hours of battery life, priced at $179.99 USD.
Cambridge Audio L/R S review
The Cambridge Audio L/R S are stylish and entertaining desktop speakers offering a powerful sound with healthy bass extension, making them a good companion for gaming and music. They feature solid physical connectivity options including USB-C and RCA, and a pleasant aesthetic with a floating stand design. While not a reference-like sound, they provide an engaging listening experience that fills a room.
This Switch headset costs less than $30 and still got four stars in my review, now it's on sale for even less
The Turtle Beach Airlite Fit headset for Nintendo Switch is available for $19.74 during Amazon's Spring Sale, down from its $27.99 MSRP. Despite its budget price, the headset received a four-star review for its surprisingly good sound quality and functional microphone, making it a solid accessory for Switch gamers.
You definitely don't need ROG's new audiophile-grade headset, but here's why you want one anyway
The ASUS ROG Kithara is an audiophile-grade gaming headset developed in partnership with Hifiman, featuring 100mm planar magnetic drivers for exceptional sound quality. While it offers a rich listening experience for music and games like Counter-Strike 2 and Crimson Desert, it lacks some standard gaming headset features such as wireless connectivity and easy mic muting, making it more of a branding exercise than a practical consumer product.
Asus ROG Cetra Open Wireless review
The Asus ROG Cetra Open Wireless earbuds offer an open-back design and strong battery life, making them suitable for fitness enthusiasts and gamers who prefer a less isolating audio experience. While they provide precise directional audio and a good soundstage for games like Counter-Strike 2, their $230 price point is high compared to more conventional noise-cancelling options.
