Apple has introduced a significant health enhancement for AirPods Pro 2 users in the UK, transforming these noise-cancelling earbuds into clinical-grade, over-the-counter hearing aids. Starting Monday, February 24, a free software update allows users with mild to moderate hearing loss to access this new Hearing Aid feature, potentially improving the lives of millions across the region.

The update leverages a personalized hearing profile, generated through a five-minute Hearing Test conducted via a compatible iPhone or iPad. This profile enables the AirPods Pro 2 to dynamically adjust audio in real-time, enhancing conversations and environmental sounds without the need for traditional hearing aids. This seamless integration ensures that users can benefit from improved hearing during phone calls, music, movies, and even gaming, providing a natural and unobtrusive listening experience.

Technical advancements include real-time sound adjustments and a personalized audiogram, which offers detailed insights into each ear's hearing capabilities. The AirPods Pro 2 also feature Loud Sound Reduction to protect against excessive noise exposure. Privacy is a key consideration, with all hearing data being encrypted and stored securely within the Health app, allowing users to monitor their hearing health over time.

Apple's initiative is supported by recent changes in UK government policy, enabling the broader availability of this feature. Dr. Sumbul Desai, Apple’s Vice President of Health, emphasized the company's commitment to enhancing health through technology. This expansion into hearing health marks a significant step towards making advanced hearing assistance accessible and discreet, aligning with the daily lifestyles of users.

The Hearing Aid feature does require regular recharging, similar to standard AirPods use, but offers convenience with quick charges that extend usage time. This innovative solution not only addresses the technical needs of those with hearing loss but also helps mitigate the stigma often associated with traditional hearing aids, promoting a more inclusive approach to hearing health.

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Apple Introduces Hearing Aid Feature for AirPods Pro 2 in UK with Free Update


Two iconic Italian brands, Sonus faber and Maserati, have joined forces to deliver an audio experience as luxurious as a cruise in a GranTurismo. Enter the Amati Folgore: a special edition speaker designed to marry the epitome of sound fidelity with Italian craftsmanship. This collaboration extends beyond just an audio equipment release; it signifies a harmonious blend of innovation, sustainability, and acoustic brilliance.

## Unparalleled Listening Experience

The Amati Folgore represents Sonus faber's unmatched dedication to sound quality. The speaker is a fifth-generation model in the Amati series and is color-coded in Rame Folgore, akin to the Maserati GranTurismo. The intention is not merely to create a speaker but an "unparalleled listening experience," reflecting the grandeur of the Maserati GranTurismo.

## The Genius Behind Materials

The speaker's front panel is made of ECONYL®, a unique material derived from recycled nylon waste. This eco-friendly material has also been used in Maserati's GranTurismo Folgore, marking it the first time ECONYL® is used in a car. The material undergoes an aesthetic transformation, achieving a highly matte surface with a parametric design, all thanks to a specialized laser processing technique.

## Seamless and Refined Aesthetic

The speaker cabinet exhibits the Maserati trident and is dressed in the same GT Folgore finish as the car. The Rame Folgore color is a result of meticulous research on the interaction between light and color. Influenced by modern architecture, especially the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, the design evolves, capturing different hues as it interacts with the lighting of the surrounding environment.

## Technical Mastery

But what's a gorgeous speaker without outstanding sound? The Amati Folgore is not just a pretty face; it's a marvel of acoustic engineering. Its 3.5-way speaker system is finely tuned, with a 28mm tweeter, a 150mm midrange, and two 220mm woofers. This produces a frequency response range from 28 Hz to 35,000 Hz, and a nominal impedance of 4 ohms.

## Sustainability Meets Craftsmanship

Sonus faber is known for its commitment to the art of sound engineering. Each speaker undergoes rigorous testing, followed by hand tuning to perfect its natural sound. This commitment to acoustic purity has been carried through into the development of the Amati Folgore Special Edition, creating a listening experience that not only pleases the ear but also respects the planet.

## An Iconic Collaboration

The Amati Folgore represents a unification of Maserati's boldness with Sonus faber's history of technical innovation. The Maserati logo is thoughtfully integrated within Sonus faber’s renowned VOS (Voice of Sonus faber), symbolizing the unity of two iconic Italian brands.

## Conclusion: The Future of High-Quality Audio

While the Amati Folgore is already an incredible milestone, it is just the beginning of an exciting adventure into the future of high-fidelity audio. As both brands continue to push boundaries, audio enthusiasts can anticipate more breathtaking innovations in the future.

A Maserati-inspired high-fidelity floor-standing speaker by Sonus Faber, part of the Amati Folgore collection, showcasing a sleek dark finish.

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A close-up view of the top corner of a Sonus Faber speaker, featuring a delicately engraved emblem resembling a stylized triad of arrows or sails

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"A detailed view of a Sonus Faber speaker showcasing its intricately designed front panel. Prominently featured is a uniquely shaped mid-range driver with the signature 'SF' logo at its center

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Pair of Sonus Faber Amati Folgore speakers showcasing Italian high-fidelity craftsmanshi

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Maserati Limited Edition Sonus Faber speaker, made in Italy

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Sonus faber speaker detail showcasing the woven pattern and branded emblem.

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Italian Elegance and Hi-End: The Sonus Faber & Maserati Amati Folgore

Sonus Faber is a brand that specializes in high-end audio products like speakers. They are known for their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail in creating both aesthetically beautiful and sonically superior audio equipment.

Sonus Faber

Experience unparalleled luxury and extraordinary sound quality with the special edition Amati Folgore speakers by Sonus faber, in collaboration with Maserati. Explore the craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainable materials that make this speaker a masterpiece of audio engineering.

The Sonus Faber Amati is a high-end loudspeaker that embodies the craftsmanship and acoustic engineering of Italian audio design. The speaker features a striking cabinet that is often constructed from laminated wood, providing not only aesthetic appeal but also resonance control. The Amati typically utilizes a combination of cone and ribbon transducers to achieve a wide frequency response and exceptional sound clarity. The design often incorporates advanced technologies such as D.A.D. (Double Acoustic Dome) drivers and a complex crossover network that enhances the listening experience. The speaker's frequency response generally ranges from 30 Hz to 40 kHz, delivering deep bass and detailed highs. The sensitivity is often rated around 90 dB, making it compatible with a variety of amplifiers. The speaker stands on a sturdy base, which may feature adjustable spikes for improved stability and isolation. Overall, the Sonus Faber Amati is designed to offer an immersive audio experience, driven by both aesthetic and acoustic principles.

Amati


In the world of high-fidelity audio, the union of an amplifier and a speaker system is akin to a carefully choreographed dance. Each component, mastering its own role, seeks to complement the other—ultimately culminating in an experience that transcends mere sound into the realm of sonic artistry. While a plethora of articles, debates, and tech talks have muddied the waters around the topic of amplifier power versus speaker capabilities, it's crucial to cut through the noise for a nuanced understanding. Let's unpack this complicated relationship for audiophiles and casual listeners alike, making the narrative universally accessible but richly detailed.

## The Endless Debate: Power Dynamics in Amplifier-Speaker Pairing

The first thing to grasp is that there are two prevailing ideologies in this arena:

1.  **Amplifier Power > Speaker Power**: Advocates for this approach argue that an amplifier with greater power than the speaker can handle offers better audio quality.
    
2.  **Speaker Power > Amplifier Power**: The counterargument suggests that having speakers that can withstand more power than the amplifier can produce offers a safety net for the speakers.
    

### The High-Powered Amplifier Approach: The Dynamics and Dangers

**Pros**:

-   **Extended Dynamic Range**: The added power reserve lets your amplifier gracefully manage the ebbs and flows of musical dynamics. Imagine listening to a classical piece; the pizzicato strings would remain crisp, and the fortissimo climax would hit you without distorting.
    
-   **Reduced Clipping**: A more potent amplifier seldom pushes its boundaries, reducing the odds of hitting the dreaded "clipping" stage, which can cause permanent speaker damage.
    

**Cons**:

-   **The Peril of Overpower**: If an amplifier sends an overpowering signal, it could cook the voice coils of your speaker, causing irreparable damage.
    
-   **Budget Concerns**: High-wattage amplifiers can become a monetary black hole, especially if you aren't planning to use the added power.
    

### The Speaker-Heavy Equation: The Cautions and Cost-Effectiveness

**Pros**:

-   **Speaker Longevity**: If your amplifier cannot produce power exceeding your speakers' capabilities, the risk of damaging the speakers diminishes.
    
-   **Economical**: Generally, less powerful amplifiers are lighter on the wallet, an attractive option for budget-conscious listeners.
    

**Cons**:

-   **Clipping Risks**: Lower-wattage amplifiers risk clipping when pushed, leading to distortion—a mortal enemy to both speakers and audiophile sensibilities.
    
-   **Volume Constraints**: If you're hosting an outdoor party or have a large listening space, a lower-wattage system might not cut it.
    

## Time to Damage: A Red Alert for Audiophiles

It's not just the theoretical risk that should worry you; real-world damage can happen quicker than you think. An overdriven amplifier can cause distortion, and even brief exposure to such unclean signals can wear down your speakers. So, the golden rule? Turn down the volume at the first sign of audio discomfort.

## Beyond Wattage: Sensitivity and Impedance

In audio, wattage is just the tip of the iceberg.

-   **Sensitivity**: Expressed in dB/W/m, this metric indicates how loud a speaker will sound for a given power input. Hence, a high-sensitivity speaker powered by a low-wattage amplifier could potentially outperform a low-sensitivity, high-wattage counterpart.
    
-   **Impedance**: Given in ohms, impedance essentially tells you how much electrical resistance a speaker offers. Misaligned impedance between the amp and speakers can result in energy waste and possible damage.
    

## Universal Accessibility: The Amplifier in the Modern Age

Here's the kicker: Modern amplifiers, built with precision engineering, are generally forgiving. They are designed to operate efficiently, providing a consistent power curve that makes it easier for users globally to set up systems without an advanced engineering degree.

## Conclusion: A Balanced Harmony

The dialogue between amplifier power and speaker capabilities is indeed complex, but it's not unapproachable. By understanding these various elements, you're not just making an informed choice; you're making a statement about the quality of sonic experience you desire. Whether you're listening to music in a tiny apartment or setting up a home theater, the key is to find that sweet spot where your amplifier and speakers dance in perfect harmony.

a close-up view of a vintage amplifier, spotlighting two knobs VOLUME and BALANCE.

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Striking the Balance: Amplifier Power vs. Speaker Capabilities

Your go-to resource for mastering the balance between amplifier power and speaker capabilities. From the science of sensitivity to the risks of overpowering


From the moment you hold a vinyl record, you're not just holding a medium of music; you're cradling decades of auditory history. Vinyl has been the cornerstone of music collections since the 20th century, with its warm sound and tangible presence. Despite the rise of digital, the vinyl record has made a remarkable comeback, finding its way into the hearts of a new generation while rekindling the flame for veteran collectors. This comprehensive guide offers more than cleaning tips—it's a passage through time, ensuring the legacy of vinyl continues spinning for years to come.

## Basic Cleaning: The Daily Tune-Up

_What You'll Need: Carbon Fiber Brush, Microfiber Cloth_

_Carbon Fiber Brush_:

1.  Hold the brush gently against the surface of the spinning record.
2.  Allow the bristles to sweep across the grooves, picking up dust.
3.  Repeat before and after each listening session to maintain clarity.

_Microfiber Cloth_:

1.  Lightly dampen the cloth with distilled water.
2.  Wipe the record in a circular motion, following the grooves.
3.  Follow up with an anti-static brush to negate static charges that attract dust.

## Intermediate Cleaning: Groove Restoration

_What You'll Need: Record Cleaning Solution, Clean Cloth, Anti-Static Brush_

_Record Cleaning Solution_:

1.  Drip a few drops of the solution onto the cleaning cloth.
2.  In a circular motion, gently wipe the record, tracing the grooves.
3.  Allow the solution to work its magic for a minute, loosening the grime.
4.  With a clean side of the cloth, wipe the record dry.
5.  Use an anti-static brush to finish and protect against future dust accumulation.

_Maintenance Importance_: Each cleaning step is crucial; it removes the microscopic particles that, if left unchecked, can cause a chain reaction, resulting in permanent damage to both the vinyl's grooves and the stylus tracking them.

## Advanced Cleaning: The Deep Dive

_What You'll Need: Isopropyl Alcohol, Cotton Swabs, Ultrasonic Cleaner, DIY Solution Ingredients_

_Isopropyl Alcohol Spot Treatment_:

1.  Apply a small amount of alcohol to a cotton swab.
2.  Gently target the stain or residue along the groove.
3.  Immediately rinse with distilled water to avoid any alcohol damage.

_Ultrasonic Cleaning_: An ultrasonic cleaner (a device that uses ultrasonic sound waves to clean) is perfect for a deep clean without physical contact, preserving the integrity of the grooves.

For a DIY ultrasonic cleaning solution, you can mix:

750 ml of distilled water
400 ml of 90% isopropyl alcohol
30 ml of TritonX-100

_DIY Ultrasonic Solution_: Mix the distilled water, isopropyl alcohol, and a surfactant like TritonX-100 to create an effective cleaning bath that's gentle on records.

## Tips

**Troubleshooting Tips**: Static and stubborn stains can be persistent foes in vinyl maintenance. For static, ensure your cleaning area is humidified. For stains, never use abrasive methods; always stick to gentle, approved cleaning solutions.

**Long-Term Care and Preservation**: Vinyl isn't just for today—it's an heirloom. Store your records upright in a cool, dry place and in anti-static sleeves. Clean your records regularly, based on how often they're played, to prevent the buildup of contaminants that can lead to noise or damage.

**Understanding Record Grades**: The condition of a vinyl record is often described using a grading system. Cleanliness can directly affect a record's grade, which in turn influences its value. Regular maintenance ensures your records remain at a high grade and retain their value, both sentimentally and monetarily.

Depicting a cotton swab and a clear bottle labeled 'Isopropyl Alcohol' placed on a table. In the soft-focused background, a vinyl record rests

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Cleaning Your Vinyl Records

Discover various methods for effectively cleaning your vinyl records, from everyday dust removal to tackling persistent grime and stubborn stains. Learn how to use carbon fiber brushes, specialized cleaning solutions, and even ultrasonic cleaners to keep your vinyl collection in top-notch condition.

Apple Introduces Hearing Aid Feature for AirPods Pro 2 in UK with Free Update

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Other articles

Italian Elegance and Hi-End: The Sonus Faber & Maserati Amati Folgore

Striking the Balance: Amplifier Power vs. Speaker Capabilities

Cleaning Your Vinyl Records