9 Cool New Gadgets to Keep on Your Radar

The Teac PD-507T is the newest addition to the iconic Japanese audio maker’s Reference 500 series of hi-fi components. It’s a CD transport, meaning it only handles the CD mechanism and CD playback and requires a separate DAC — like the Teac UD-507 ($2,100), also in its Reference 500 series — to work. By specializing in pristine digital output without a digital-to-analog converter, Teac claims that the PD-507T “enables ultra-clean CD playback through various audio systems equipped with digital inputs.”

To celebrate its 40th anniversary, Acoustic Energy released a reimagined version of its original loudspeaker, the AE1, which was first introduced in 1987 and produced until 2016, when it was ultimately discontinued. The “40th Anniversary Edition” version of the AE1 remains faithful to the original in both sound and aesthetics —‚ it’s still a two-way passive bookshelf speaker designed to deliver dynamic audiophile-grade sound. However, due to none of the original parts still being produced, the British audio manufacturer had to basically redesign the loudspeaker from the ground up. According to the press release, this 40th Anniversary Edition of the AE1 is “a faithful evolution, not a simple reissue.”

As its name gives away, Devialet’s Phantom Ultimate is the “ultimate” version of the brand’s signature Phantom wireless speaker. It looks and works quite similarly to the original, which was released in 2015, but the Ultimate has updated internals for improved sound and modern streaming capabilities. Notably, the Phantom Ultimate comes in two distinct versions: the flagship Phantom Ultimate 108dB and the smaller Phantom Ultimate 98dB. The Phantom Ultimate 108dB is powered by a 1,100-watt amplifier and has a frequency range between 14Hz and 35kHz, while the Phantom Ultimate 98dB features a 400-watt amplifier and has a frequency range between 18Hz and 25kHz

The Oakley Meta Vanguard are smart glasses that are specifically designed for athletes. They combine Oakley’s frames and Prizm glass with Meta’s built-in camera and technology. The 12-megapixel camera, which has an ultra-wide 122-degree field of view, rests in the center of the shades and can record your workout. It is also compatible with Strava and Garmin devices, so that, at the end of the workout, it can share your workout videos with social media. Additionally, there are open-ear speakers built into the temples of the glasses so that you can listen to music and take calls while you ride.

Ray-Ban and Meta have released the second generation of their AI-powered smart glasses. They look just like the first-generation models — basically, like a pair of Ray-Bans — and work very similarly, too. However, the new models boast twice the battery life (now up to eight hours) and, maybe more significantly, boast upgraded cameras that are now capable of capturing up to ultra HD 3K videos. The sunglasses are available in three styles and a bunch of different colors.

The Garmin Venu 4 is the newest iteration of the brand’s lifestyle line of smartwatches. It looks and works similarly to the 2023-released Venu 3, but the fourth-generation model has a built-in LED flashlight, improved health features, and a Fitness Coach feature for personalized workouts. Additionally, it has a 12-day battery life, which puts rivals (like the Apple Watch) to shame. Available in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm.

Nothing’s third-generation flagship wireless earbuds, the Ear 3, look nearly identical to their 2023-released predecessors — they have a similar AirPods Pro-esque shape with a transparent design. The earbuds promise better sound quality, active noise-cancellation and battery life, but the headline new feature has to do with its charging case. It’s called “Super Mic” and it essentially turns the charging case into a standalone, high-quality mic for calls and video conferencing. The Ear 3 is available in two finishes: white or black.

Edifier introduced a new and improved version of its popular S880DB. Like its predecessor, the S880DB MKII is a powered bookshelf speaker system — consisting of one active and one passive speaker — with built-in Bluetooth for streaming and multiple inputs for connecting a wide range of sources. However, Edifier upgraded the MKII with new drivers and improved internals, thus promising elevated performance. It also features new connections, making the system very versatile — you can use the powered speakers with your computer, turntable (with a built-in phono preamp) or even your TV.

The Aurzen D1R Cube is the first projector to run Roku’s smart TV operating system, giving users a familiar interface and access to their favorite streaming apps. It’s an affordable all-in-one projector capable of delivering a 1080 picture that’s up to 150 inches. It has a built-in speaker, but supports wireless compatibility with Roku’s ecosystem of wireless speakers and soundbars.