Articles by James Barber
JBL’s 2024 Bluetooth speaker lineup boasts replaceable batteries
As part of its mission to make its products more eco-friendy, Harman’s latest JBL speakers all have replaceable batteries.
JBL to deliver a wide array of new headphones in 2024
JBL says its latest headphones—slated to start arriving in March—are all about giving customers the exact options they need.
Raycon ups its audio game with Everyday Pro headphones, buds
After building a loyal following through its viral marketing, the company looks to go upscale with its new hybrid ANC models.
Shelly Group to show a raft of new smart home products at CES
The European manufacturer announced a 3rd-generation IoT processor, Z-Wave-based smart plugs and controller modules, a Wi-Fi smart sensor, and more.
EarFun Free Pro 3 review: These tiny earbuds pack a big punch
They’re an outstanding audio value for both Android and iPhone devotees.
Victrola Hi-Res Onyx review: This is a great Bluetooth turntable
When all is said and done, this wireless turntable’s “hi-res” designation is less important than its other strong features when compared to the competition.
Sennheiser's Ambeo Soundbar Mini is best for small spaces
Sennheiser’s lowest-priced soundbar can match the performance of its larger siblings, but only if you use it in a small room.
House of Marley Stir It Up Lux Wireless review: Sustainable vibes
Featuring a plinth fabricated from bamboo, a renewable resource, this turntable can stream your vinyl over Bluetooth or wired connections.
Yamaha True X Bar 50A review: An outstanding value
This polished, easy-to-use soundbar and subwoofer combo sounds even better with Yamaha's optional satellite speakers.
What is Bluetooth LE Audio? A minor wireless audio improvement
The latest update to the Bluetooth standard delivers better connectivity—and a small bump in audio quality compared to the aging SBC codec.
The best turntables for listening to your vinyl
The analog listening experience you'll get from records is very different than playing CDs or streaming music. We'll help you find the right one for your budget.
Tronsmart Bang Max review: Tons of power at a bargain price
You might not know the brand, but Tronsmart is making Bluetooth speakers that are at least as good—if not better—than the ones the brands you're more familiar with are building.
FiiO K7 review: This outstanding DAC drives headphones, too
It’s marketed as a DAC/headphone amp combo, but this affordable desktop device sounds just as great while connected to a preamp or powered speakers.
WiiM Pro Plus review: Today’s best home audio value
We love the WiiM Pro, but if you don't already have an outboard DAC you're in love with, the more powerful components in the step-up WiiM Pro Plus crush it.
Monster DNA Max review: Emphasis on performance, not specs
Monster delivers a Bluetooth speaker that stays connected, sounds good, and doesn’t include a raft of features most users don’t need.
WiiM Pro review: Astounding value in music-streaming hardware
Matching the performance of units costing hundred—if not thousands—more, this streamer might be the best value going in networked home audio.
Digitize your vinyl records for portable streaming
LPs have made a massive comeback, and some rare tracks aren't on any streaming service. Here’s how you can listen on your phone, in the car, or anywhere!
Final Audio ZE8000 review: Wildly different, exceptionally good
The industrial design is polarizing, and noise cancellation plays second fiddle to fidelity, but the Final ZE8000 are among the best ANC earbuds on the market.