Focal is a brand that specializes in high-fidelity audio equipment.

Focal

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In a remarkable leap for auditory science, two recent studies have unveiled the sounds of the natural world that lie beyond human perception. Researchers from Aalto University and Tel Aviv University have separately explored ultrasonic frequencies and plant emissions, offering new insights into the unseen and unheard aspects of our environment.

At Aalto University, a team led by Professor Ville Pulkki has developed a super-hearing technology capable of detecting ultrasonic sounds, such as those made by bats. This technology, which transforms ultrasonic frequencies to audible ranges, promises significant applications in various fields, including maintenance, rescue, and environmental monitoring. It's a breakthrough that not only broadens our sensory experience but also enhances our understanding of animal behavior and environmental dynamics.

Meanwhile, researchers at Tel Aviv University have discovered that plants emit sounds, particularly when stressed. Led by biologist and mathematician Lilach Hadany, the team found that these sounds, though inaudible to the human ear, could carry vital information about the plants' condition. This revelation opens up new possibilities in agriculture and environmental science, providing a novel method to monitor plant health and stress.

**HiFi Audio and Auditory Experiences:** 
While these studies explore frequencies beyond human hearing, they bring exciting possibilities to the world of HiFi audio and auditory enhancement. Insights gained could inspire the development of more advanced sound processing techniques in HiFi systems, creating more immersive and sophisticated soundscapes. The understanding of how different frequencies interact with the environment, including those from stressed plants, could lead to HiFi systems that integrate ambient environmental sounds, offering a more holistic and organic listening experience.

**Conclusion:** 
The findings from Aalto and Tel Aviv Universities not only challenge our understanding of hearing and perception but also underscore the importance of continuous scientific exploration. In a world where so much remains to be discovered, these studies serve as a reminder of the endless possibilities that await in the pursuit of knowledge and understanding.

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Beyond Human Hearing: Groundbreaking Studies Reveal New Sonic Frontiers

Explore how groundbreaking studies on ultrasonic and plant sounds are inspiring innovative HiFi audio experiences and advanced auditory enhancements.

The Cambridge Evo 150 DeLorean Edition is like a love letter to both tech enthusiasts and fans of retro-futuristic aesthetics. It packs a punch with its 150W per channel power, thanks to the Hypex NCore Class D amp tucked inside its chassis. This means it should have no trouble filling your room with sound, no matter what speakers you pair it with.

Its heart, a high-end ESS Sabre DAC, is pretty adept at handling a wide range of audio formats. This is good news for those who have their music collections in various digital formats because it promises to deliver clear and detailed sound across the board.

Connectivity-wise, this thing is pretty loaded. It caters to both the old school and the new with inputs for vinyl fans and a suite of wireless streaming options, including Bluetooth and support for streaming services like Spotify and Tidal. The large display and the dual-concentric dial make navigating through your music sources as straightforward as flipping through a magazine.

One of the cooler aspects is the device's design, directly inspired by the DeLorean car — yes, the one from "Back to the Future." It comes with interchangeable side panels, so you can switch up its look to match your mood or room decor. Plus, there’s an update coming that’ll add VU meters to the display, giving it that classic amp vibe in a digital format.

Priced at $3,199, it's not exactly pocket change, but for those looking to invest in a piece of equipment that doubles as a conversation starter while providing high-quality sound, it could be worth considering.

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Cambridge Audio Evo 150 DeLorean Limited Edition, 1000 Units Worldwide

Cambridge Audio is a brand that specializes in the design and manufacture of high-quality audio equipment.

Cambridge Audio

Weighing the Evo 150 DeLorean Edition's features against its price - is it worth the investment for audiophiles?

The audiophile community is buzzing about the latest release from FiiO - the R9. Touted as a game-changer in digital media streaming, this device has caught the attention of high-fidelity audio enthusiasts. Let's dive into what makes the FiiO R9 stand out, minus the technical jargon and marketing speak.

What's Under the Hood?
The FiiO R9 is more than just another streaming device. It packs some serious tech, like dual ES9038Pro DACs and an eight-channel THX 788+ amplifier. In simple terms, this means it can deliver really powerful and clear sound. The device runs on a customized Android 10 system, which they plan to upgrade to Android 12. This is a nice touch, keeping it up-to-date with the latest software.

Connecting Your World
In today’s world, staying connected is key, and the R9 ensures you're not left wanting. It's equipped with Wi-Fi, which is pretty much expected in any modern device. For those who want to use it with a PC, the inclusion of an XMOS chip reduces latency - a fancy way of saying it keeps sound and visuals in sync. The R9 also comes with HDMI ports, but it’s important to note that while you can connect it to an external monitor, don’t expect to use your monitor's touchscreen capabilities with it.

Not Just for One Corner of the World
FiiO seems to understand that their audience is global. The R9 comes with different power cables depending on where you are in the world - a small but thoughtful detail. This means less hassle finding the right adapter or cable.

More than Just the Product
There's some excitement around the launch promotions too. For instance, ordering the R9 from their AliExpress store gets you a free portable DAC and headphone amplifier. That's a nice bonus, especially for those who love collecting audio gear.

The discussions around the R9 aren’t limited to this product alone. People are curious about updates for other FiiO devices, hinting at a loyal customer base waiting to see what else FiiO has up its sleeve.

So, What’s the Verdict?
The FiiO R9 seems to be making waves for good reasons. It’s not just another high-end audio device; it’s a well-thought-out piece of tech aiming to deliver a top-notch audio experience. While it’s packed with advanced features, FiiO seems to have kept the user experience in mind, making it accessible and not overly complicated. It will be interesting to see how it fares in the real world, beyond the initial excitement. For those deep into the world of high-quality audio, the R9 could be a gadget worth checking out.

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The Essence of THX 788+ Amplifier in FiiO R9 for Superior Sound

FiiO is a company that specializes in the design and production of audio products.

FiiO

Revel in the superior sound with FiiO R9's THX 788+ amplifier, a benchmark in high-fidelity audio technology.

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by Focal

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Interesting articles

Beyond Human Hearing: Groundbreaking Studies Reveal New Sonic Frontiers

Cambridge Audio Evo 150 DeLorean Limited Edition, 1000 Units Worldwide

The Essence of THX 788+ Amplifier in FiiO R9 for Superior Sound