Get the weekly hi-fi digest — new gear, best reads, and deals.

Acer's AI TransBuds debut at COMPUTEX 2025 as a breakthrough in wearable, real-time voice translation, supporting seamless communication in 15 languages.
Equipped with dual microphones and AI-driven speech processing, the earbuds deliver instant, precise translations for diverse conversational settings.
Features like real-time captioning and transcription offer accessibility and flexibility, with transcripts available for review via a connected mobile device.
Acer has introduced its inaugural wearable device, the AI TransBuds, showcasing significant advancements in real-time voice translation technology. Debuted at COMPUTEX 2025, these earbuds incorporate sophisticated AI algorithms designed to facilitate seamless two-way communication across 15 languages upon release. The AI TransBuds feature dual microphones engineered to accurately capture and process human speech for instantaneous translation, enhancing cross-cultural interactions.
Technically, the TransBuds require a connection to a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet, to activate their translation capabilities. This dependency ensures that translations are processed efficiently through the connected device's computational power, as the earbuds themselves do not perform independent translation tasks. Users can expect reliable performance in various settings, from casual conversations to professional meetings, thanks to the robust AI-based speech recognition and semantic analysis integrated into the system.
In addition to translation, the AI TransBuds support real-time captioning and transcription. This functionality allows users to monitor ongoing dialogues and review conversational transcripts at their convenience, providing both accessibility and flexibility. The integration with mobile devices also means that users can leverage companion applications to manage settings and access translated content seamlessly.
Acer's emphasis on technical precision and user-centric design positions the AI TransBuds as a valuable tool for enhancing communication in diverse environments. By enabling effortless translation and offering comprehensive transcription features, these earbuds cater to the needs of audiophiles seeking high-performance audio devices with practical, everyday applications.
The introduction of AI TransBuds marks Acer's commitment to expanding its wearable technology portfolio, blending advanced artificial intelligence with audio excellence to meet the demands of modern users.
New gear, best reads, and deals — every Friday.

* Queen will release a 5CD+2LP super deluxe Queen II box set on 27 March 2026 via EMI, expanding the original 1974 album extensively.

* Audio Research I/55 is a compact tube integrated amplifier derived from I/70, succeeding I/50, targeting high-end listeners seeking classic tube sound with m…

* ToxFreeLife tested 81 headphone models from brands including Sony, Apple, JBL, Bose, Samsung, and Temu across European retail and online marketplaces.

* Audio-Technica launches the ATH-CKD7NC USB-C wired earphones on February 27, featuring hybrid noise cancelling and priced at ¥9,680 via direct sales.