Billings, Montana to Install Wireless Speakers Throughout Downtown

The largest fundraiser of the Billings Depot came up with a new idea to light up the downtown.

The Billings Outdoor Lighting teamed up with a team of lighting specials from California to embellish five trees with up to 2,000 feet of permanent lights.

Sub-zero temperatures didn’t sway the crews to stop working on Wednesday, wrapping each tree to the top.

This initiative is part of the extensive neighborhood beautification project. The Depot has been putting efforts for this initiative for two years where the trees on Montana Avenue will be wrapped in light paired with wireless speakers.

As part of the realization of Depot’s project, they reached out to Bruce Brenon who’s the owner of Shine Illumination. The company is known as a professional lighting company. It’s based in San Juan Capistrano in the Southern part of California.

Brenon said that lighting is an easy way to add life inexpensively. “A fairly inexpensive way to do it without having to change the facade of the building and things like that,” he pointed out. He said the community of Billings possess varied beauty and elements that remind him of Kansas.

Creating a ‘wow factor’ to the downtown area is the pursuit of the project.

The owner of the Outdoor Lighting, Grant Fagg, said that he loves to see the revitalization going, and the project is just one of the steps they could do. “If we could get the majority of town to light up the trees, it’d be a unifying thing. It would bring people to Billings, and it would bring people to downtown,” Fagg continued.

To further expand the project, both Brenon, and Fagg will donate their time for the project before Saturday’s Taste of Billings Gala.

Brenon also works with Harvey Singh, a Depot Board Member, and an area businessman, to light up the front of his restaurant, the Seva Kitchen on North Broadway. He’s currently available for consultations for other areas that might need lighting solutions to make the establishment more alluring all year round.

Long Beach Convention Upgrades to Wireless Speakers

The Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center is more than just a space for events. This 572,387 sq ft is beautifully set in the heart of Long Beach downtown business and shopping district and overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Recently, they made renovations in their Pacific Ballroom transforming this 40,000 sq ft space into a multi-functional event space. Now, what’s a convention and entertainment center without its audio capabilities? Of course, it’s useless.

Good thing that the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center reached out to TheatreDNA Creative to partner them in looking for a practical and possible future proof wireless speaker. The convention center proves to be a challenging feat for traditional audio set up.

The convention has thick walls and wiring through may be not only expensive but also impractical. Well, the convention’s walls are 14″ thick. There are also a lot of things that happen inside the convention, and simultaneous events happen almost every day. And quality audio is essential to create an atmosphere in the whole area.

Another challenge that the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center is facing is that it has condo units just at the end of it and cranking up the volume for the sound to reach the other end wouldn’t just do. So, it was up to TheatreDNA to find the right tool. Or partner. Then, came along Powersoft DEVA.

Powersoft DEVA: The Future of Wireless Speakers

Powersoft’s Deva is the future of wireless speakers. Timeless and self-sustaining. As mentioned earlier, audio distribution is proven to be a hard task. There’s the cabling and digging and a whole lot of them. That’s why TheatreDNA chose DEVA, not because of its cost efficiency but because it can do more.

So what can DEVA do?

Well, for starters let’s discuss its ‘future proof’ properties. The DEVA is made out of materials that can withstand any weather condition. Its casing is made up of molded plastic with an IP65 rating.

This feature allows the speaker to last longer even in the harshest conditions. Plus, it can sustain and power itself with the use of its external solar panel.

The battery life of the solar panel can last up to 18 days without recharging.

Second, let’s talk about connectivity. Connecting from one speaker to another through cables and wires are now gone. They’re quite primitive now. With the DEVA, you can multi-connect the speakers through WI-FI technology or LAN. Each speaker has their unique IP address where you can control in their DEVA system manager interface. The WI-FI capacity of the DEVA is 802.1 1 a,b,g,n,d with 2.4 and 5 GHz capacity. The speaker is also compatible with most devices (PC, smartphones, and tablets).

 

 

Lastly, let’s bring to the table what sets the DEVA apart from the rest. Well, DEVA doesn’t just function as a speaker but also as CCTV. They have both audio messaging and video capturing features. The speaker has 100Hz – 16kHz +/-3db capacity and its amplifier are laced with a highly efficient Class D circuitry. The max sound pressure level can reach up to 115 dB/m. Mix wireless connectivity and this sound can allow you to stream announcements and music real-time.

As with the video capturing features, it has the capability of scanning large areas with a resolution of 752×582 pixels. It also has an infrared presence detector that analyzes its environment during night’s watch.

So that was the power product of Powersoft. TheatreDNA and the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center made the right call of acquiring these speakers. Aside from the fact that they are well-advanced, well-designed and well-engineered, it saves the developers time and just refocuses on what is important: making the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center one of the best places to go in California.

Apple/Undefeated do a Co-Op Wireless Beats Speaker

Beats by Dre teams up with UNDEFEATED to bring a series of products. The fierce vibe of tiger camouflage is the banner design that comes in shades of green, black, and white.

The collaboration of the two top teams includes a new set of a new Beats Pill+ speaker and UNDEFEATED BeatsX Earphones. Both of the products can be purchased in a unique colorway from the Apple online store.

‘Stay Undefeated’

The story behind UNDEFEATED is a part of the wider history of camouflage.Multi-levels of music, fashion, culture, and counterculture are transcended by this design. Across genres and generations, camo proves itself to belong in style.

It’s considered as a badge of honor by UNDEFEATED. This ‘badge’ is worn by people whose lives are according to their terms.

Beats’ Pill+ Speaker comes with the camouflage design for its speaker mesh. The model has a black middle section which allows the user to control it. This button features the well-known UNDEFEATED branding. The product comes with an olive green carrying case. This case isn’t usually included with a Beats Pill+ speaker.

For the third collaboration of UNDEFEATED and Beats by Dre, the first Beats Pill is also born. The product comes with a custom styled grill along with the first-ever customized BeatsX.

This limited edition collection gives out premium acoustics with the attitude and style of a streetwear’s convincing brand.

Apple’s Beats brand usually collaborates with celebrities, designers, and other companies to create special edition products. Apple has collaborated with Third Man, LINE FRIENDS, Balmain, Alexander Wang, MCM, and many more famous brands. The team-ups resulted in plausible products that the Apple fans had been enjoying.

X-Box joins the Wireless Speaker Audio Association

Xbox is a household name, one that can compete with the gaming and entertainment industry. It has developed, housed and partnered with the best in the gaming industry. Xbox has partnered with Razer, Astro, Plantronics and Turtle Beach for their wired audio accessories.

Now, Xbox has made a massive leap with their audio and entertainment gear. They’ve recently joined the Wireless Speaker and Audio Association, in the hopes of making another milestone in the gaming industry while ramping up their game.

This pairing may seem odd, but it makes perfect sense because WiSA is an organization that aims to bring high-res and wireless multichannel audio products into the home theater market. WiSA currently has more than 30 members and partner brands signed up and actively working to develop the world of wireless audio.

Why is the partnership a significant benefit?

Gamers, enthusiasts, and casual users know that Xbox unveiled the Xbox One X – the most powerful and with advanced specs console up to date. This partnership could also entice other audio brands looking to tie their products into a source of content wirelessly. It’s also an added benefit for Xbox as it explores options in creating an incredibly captivating and engaging gaming experience through wireless audio solutions. By bringing Xbox as one of the leading video game brands under the WiSA organization, WiSA gives Xbox and the company’s members direct access to the team and vice versa.

In incorporating WiSA’s technology on their consoles, Xbox has the opportunity to open up an entirely new experience of wireless audio for gamers.

This partnership allows Xbox to create a wireless audio system that accommodates their needs and can improve over time of research and development.

This partnership with WiSA could be a stepping stone to higher and advanced wireless audio solutions. WiSA allows the possibility of a simple-setup wireless sound solution that’s versatile to any space and has a wide range of products.

WiSA has interoperability, which means that they have the ability of computer systems or software to exchange and make use of information. This capability allows users to “feel assured” that all WiSA certified components from all brands under them would work seamlessly with one another.

WiSA-certified products guarantee users that multi-channel setups will flow with low latency. Sound reproduction will come as crisp and clear as what’s intended and guaranteed.

Indeed Xbox’s partnership with WiSA is a wise move by both companies. They’re creating a world-class experience for gamers worldwide. What an excellent day to be a gamer, indeed.

Frankfort Square Will Soon Have Wireless Speakers Installed In Its Park

Hear ye! The downtown Columbus has something for your ears.

The Leadership Columbus Class of 2015-2016 will add a wireless speaker system in Frankfort Square.

Leadership Columbus is one of the programs offered through the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce. This program aims to educate participants about problems, opportunities, and resources in the region. Previous projects created the disc golf course in Pawnee Park and initiated the local Habitat for Humanity chapter.

A co-chair for the project, Eric Hall said that eight speakers would be installed in the park. The speaker system will come with a wireless microphone and receiver system.

Each class of Leadership Columbus has to complete a project. After some considerations, Hall and other class members decided to add the speaker system to create a better ambiance for the park.

This idea isn’t the first of its kind. The Norfolk was the inspiration for this concept since it has been installed with the speaker system. The speakers play music that’s enjoyed by the people who stroll through the downtown area.

A fundraising is held to secure support for acquiring the audio system.

The Leadership Columbus participants are reaching out to businesses to secure a contribution from Columbus Area Future Fund.

Hall said that they’re targeting $15,000.00 and they’ve raised $11,000.00. They are hoping that it’ll be mounted at the park by the end of the year.

Another co-chair for the project, Jill Goedeken said that the speaker system might enhance the downtown area. The speakers may be used in various ways like public safety announcements during community events such as Columbus Days Lawnchairs on the Square or merely playing music.

“We would love to do a couple of blocks up and down 13th Street, but we are just going to do the Square itself. It is a project that could be expanded upon if a future class thinks it’s worthwhile,” Goedeken added.

Audio Video Specialist will install the speakers on light poles in Frankfort Square.

If you’re interested in sparing some donation to the cause, you may contact the chamber office at 402-564-2769.

Wireless Speakers vs. Soundbars

Music brings the world together. However, no matter how music brings us together, determining high-performing audio devices is overwhelming. Some people have their sound preferences in a specific genre. Others may be particular to audio devices that give better instrument details.

For techies and audiophiles, the discussion on which is the better between wireless speakers and sound bars are also heating up.

What are differences between a wireless speaker and a soundbar? If you’re not sure about their differences, then you’re in luck. In this post, we’ll be citing the differences between these two audio systems which will hopefully help you in your buying decision.

Wireless Speakers

Wireless speakers all come in different shapes and sizes. They’d be either small or large, and each speaker has its unique features.

A wireless speaker is like choosing between a car or truck. Your choice usually depends on your needs and preferences. Will you be using the speaker mostly at home or outdoors? Near a power source or in the forest? In your living room or by the pool?

Wireless speakers are for those occasions when you just need an on-the-go and strong music partner. They can be portable enough for you to carry around. Bring your wireless speaker with you even at the peak of Mt. Everest or just chilling at the beach.

Most wireless speakers aren’t only made portable. Most manufacturers engineered their speakers with durability.

Wireless speakers are also smartly built for homes, such as the Amazon Echo and the newest Pixel Dot. Smart wireless speakers offer more than sports scores and weather updates. You can also use these speakers to make calls via voice commands to AI assistants such as Google Assistant or Alexa.

Soundbars

While wireless speakers speak of portability and durability, soundbars are more of steady-paced speakers. In comparison to wireless speakers, soundbars are more prominent in sound quality since most of them are part of home theater systems.

Soundbars are your TV’s sound extension. So, they’re not portable but are durable. They’re inexpensive and straightforward. Soundbars may lack those frustrating wires, but most of these speakers produce an actual surround-sound quality.

Most soundbars aren’t too good for music playing. You may need to pair them with other wireless speakers for an incredible music experience. But if you’re looking for better sound for movies and TV shows, they’re the ones for you.

Oh, you don’t need to worry about wires. Soundbars can also be connected wirelessly, and most of them come with a remote control. You don’t need to go to and fro just to adjust the audio settings of your soundbar.

So, there goes our easy comparison between a soundbar and a wireless speaker. Again, it’ll always boil down to your specific needs.

We hope this article helps you in your decision.

Google Home Mini Speakers Recorded all Audio back to Google Servers

Your home should be synonymous with safety. Privacy must be at its maximum state. But imagine if someone was sly enough to enter your home and record everything you say near it. It sounds worse than the Peeping Tom, right?

Sad to say, Google’s Home Mini speaker happened to be that kind of all-listening and all-recording, new generation tom.

Don’t fret! Google wasn’t that purposely evil.

According to The Verge report, the Home Mini speaker recorded all sounds due to a fault in the touch sensor of the device. To ease this mishap, Google issued a software patch to halt the constant recording.

The company was happy that the speakers could be fixed remotely with a software update rather than a recall.

Users owe this discovery to the reporting about ‘near constant’ listening and recording of Artem Russakovskii of Android Police. It received a quick response from Google. It’s a good thing that the touch sensor fault is limited to Home Mini speakers distributed at Made by Google.

An estimate of 4,000 devices was affected. If you haven’t acquired your Home Mini from the said event, your unit is safe. Also, the Google Home Max won’t suffer from such mishap since it’s not launching until December.

As Google tries to demonstrate that they uphold privacy seriously, all queries and activities created through a long press at the touch sensor on Home Mini speakers between October 4 – 7 have been wiped out. That information will no longer show up on the owner’s My Activity Page.

The Google support page gives further information for those affected users. It advises software update to fix the problem. If the issue isn’t settled through the update, Google will send out a replacement of the Home Mini.

The Top 5 Wireless Speakers with Built-In Microphones

Putting your smartphone on your ear when answering calls can be a bit bothersome. The feeling may be the same when using a headset for voice calls.

When it comes to group or conference calls, you won’t be impressed by the audio quality it’ll produce even on speaker mode. Even telephones aren’t loud enough for conference calls. It’ll be funny to see the team compressing themselves just to hear what the person on the other line is saying.

Why won’t you try using wireless speakers with built-in microphones?

It’s 2017, and there’s a wide array of wireless speakers with built-in microphone in the market that’ll solve this audio problem.

Also, if you want a better listening experience, wireless Bluetooth speakers can give your favorite tunes justice.

Check our picks for the top five wireless Bluetooth speakers with built-in microphones of 2017.

1. Jabra Speak 710

Jabra has recently released an addition to their wireless speaker line up. The Jabra Speak 710 is an upgrade of its predecessor, the Speak 510. This wireless speaker delivers premium sound quality even with its portable ‘diaphragm’ design.

The Jabra Speak 710 has a superb clarity and hassle-free setup when it comes to managing calls and audio. This wireless speaker boasts a powerful omnidirectional microphone that works intelligently to pick up each person’s voice. And because of its Bluetooth version 4.2 connectivity, this speaker can pick up voice commands seamlessly as far as 100 feet (30m).

With 15 hours of battery life and HiFi grade audio quality, you’ll be assured of smooth, clear conversations and astounding music experience.

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2. ‎Bose SoundLink Revolve+

Bose isn’t behind the race when it comes to omnidirectional sound. The SoundLink Revolve+ is a revolutionary wireless speaker with a bigger, louder, and has an incredible battery life.

At first glance, this wireless speaker looks like a thermos jug with its shape and ribbed carry handle. The speaker’s design has a tapered top with a perforated lower half aluminum enclosure.

The Bose SoundLink Revolve+ is one of the most sophisticated wireless Bluetooth speakers on the market. It works as a smart speaker and is compatible with voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant. The wireless speaker’s amazing True360 sound, Bluetooth v4.2 with NFC, and full-range drivers are powerful enough to give superb sound quality with its size and portability.

The SoundLink Revolve+ may not be a bang for your buck. But if you’re particular about audio quality and performance, the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ can satisfy an audiophile’s taste.

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3. Anker Soundcore 2

While the above-mentioned wireless speakers have a hefty price tag, the Anker Soundcore 2 will give you a decent audio performance that’s a bang for your buck.

The Anker Soundcore 2 exudes impressive features and satisfying sound quality that’s more than what you can expect for a budget speaker. This wireless speaker with a rubberized enclosure is portable, water resistant, and has a built-in microphone for hands-free calls.

This wireless speaker may not impress you with louder sound outdoors. But the SoundCore 2 delivers decent sound that has minimal distortion at maximum volume level.

Don’t worry about running out of battery! Its incredible 24-hours battery life will put you in an optimal music experience.

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4. House of Marley Chant BT

Known for their fashionable and earthly designs, the House of Marley offers you a compact wireless speaker with decent sound quality. Its bamboo trim top and denim fabric enclosure fit right to anybody’s fashion.

This little wireless speaker delivers a decent bass and crisp, clear sound at moderate volumes. It has an integrated microphone that allows you to enjoy hands-free voice calls. The Chant BT’s 8-hour battery life will also put you in an immersive music entertainment the entire day.

If you’re looking for a fashionably unique, portable wireless speaker with personality, check out the House of Marley Chant BT.

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5. JBL Flip 3

A cylindrical, splash proof and portable wireless speaker with a modest price, that’s the JBL Flip 3. This awesome compact speaker boasts its ability to connect with up to three smartphones or tablets for a wholesome musical enjoyment.

The JBL Flip 3 has two powerful bass ports on each side of its body. Its four control buttons are located at the back of the speaker to give the speaker’s front a neat and clean view.

If you want a total wireless freedom even with voice calls, the JBL Flip 3 won’t put you down. Take crystal clear voice calls from the JBL Flip 3 with the touch of the phone button at the back of the speaker. This speaker has a noise and echo-canceling feature that won’t hassle you with your conversations.

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If you need a wireless speaker that’s affordable and packed with impressive features, the Flip 3 may be a good pick for you.

There goes our list of the top five wireless Bluetooth speakers with built-in microphone of 2017. If you want listening experience at its best, pair up your smartphones or audio devices with these awesome wireless speakers.

Do you have your own list of the latest impressive wireless speakers with built-in microphone features in mind? Share it with us!

Your Guide To The Top Five Wireless Bluetooth Speakers With Built-In Microphones Of 2017

Rank	Image	Speaker	Price	Rating	Find Lowest Price
#1		Jabra Speak 710	$$$	9.4	Check on Amazon
#2		Bose SoundLink Revolve+	$$$	9.0	Check on Amazon
#3		Anker Soundcore 2	$	9.2	Check on Amazon
#4		House of Marley Chant BT	$	8.4	Check on Amazon
#5		JBL Flip 3	$$	8.8	Check on Amazon

Google’s new Home Max Smart Speaker to take on Sonos One

Google is about to release its newest premium speaker, the Google Home Max. Unlike the Sonos One, the Home Max is ready to level up your speakers at home with its latest features.

About Google Home Max

Google’s Home Max has more impressive features which will outsmart other wireless speakers. This smart speaker includes an adaptive “Smart Sound” audio system. It can adapt to the noise of its environment by adjusting its volume. The Home Max’s sound level will go louder in noisy surroundings, and at night time, it’ll reduce its sound automatically.

Critics are expecting that the Home Max wireless speaker will be a direct competitor with other premium smart speakers such as the Sonos and the Apple HomePod.

Price

The $399 smart speaker will be out in the market this coming December. During this period, the Home Max speaker may be exclusively available across North America.

Design and Specifications

Although the speaker is simple, Google has successfully made an 11-pound speaker device to look elegant and well-engineered.

Drivers are hidden under a mesh fabric which allows the device to have a smooth and decent effect. An option like a touch-friendly sensor is also available for adjusting the volume and skipping songs. A small line indicates the sensor which is situated at the topmost part of the speaker.

The power switch is located in the middle part of the wireless speaker while the plug for the power supply is located in the near left corner side.

Google’s Home Max also has a USB-C port and a 3.5mm audio jack to play tracks using a wired connection with other non-Bluetooth devices.

What are your expectations about the upcoming Google smart speaker? Comment below!

The speaker is supported by a Chromecast built-in protocol which is ideal for Wi-Fi music, made of course by Google itself. This makes the speaker a suitable audio device for people who love movie marathons.

Other specifications are listed below:

• Silicone Base
• Acoustically transparent fabric available in two colors: Charcoal and Chalk
• Two custom tweeters (0.7 inches)
• Two high-excursion dual voice coil woofers (4.5 inches)
• Six onboard microphones ideal for far-field voice control

The premium Google Home Max continues to gain critics even though it’s not yet released. Soon, users will embrace a new generation of smart speakers that’ll bring you to another level of enjoyment.

The 4 Best Wireless Speakers for Backpacking

Backpacking is eventually a ‘thing’ these days. Whether you’re a millennial or luster for adventure, music is one of the greatest companions on an adventure. Well, aside from food, of course. What more way to spend it than having your wireless speakers on the trip.

Wireless speakers are the new “it” these days. Some people use wireless speakers for connectivity and convenience. Others buy wireless speakers as their companion on an outdoor activity like the beach or the camp.

Want to know the best wireless speakers for backpackers? Here is our list of our top 4 wireless speakers for backpackers in no particular order.

1. JBL Charge 3

This badass waterproof wireless speaker is the best companion for any beach party. You don’t need to worry about your wireless speaker getting fried. You can fully submerge the Charge 3 in a meter deep of water for up to 30 minutes without damage.

The JBL Charge 3 approximately weighs 1.76 pounds and has dimensions of 3.43 x 9.09 x 3.48 inches. This wireless speaker is portable that comes with big sounds. It’s capable of filling a large room with booming music. Well, if you want to experience the best sound of the JBL Charge 3, you have to be within a 20 feet distance from the speaker.

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2. Braven BRV-1ra

The heavyweight champion of all wireless speakers. Braven’s BRV-1 is a rugged, bulky looking wireless speaker. This wireless speaker is five inches in width and about two inches high.

This wireless speaker is waterproof and shockproof. It has an incredible battery life that can last up to 15 hours.

The Braven BRV-1 produces excellent sound quality. And one cool feature of this wireless speaker is that you can use the Braven BRV-1 as a backup battery for your smartphones or tablets.

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3. Eton Rugged Rukus

The battery is always a significant problem when it comes to gadgets. For long-time backpackers and wanderlust people, this is the perfect wireless speaker for you.

Eton has solved this problem by attaching a solar panel on its Rugged Rukus. No need to buy a separate solar panel to charge your gadgets. It doesn’t mean that the battery lasts forever. Instead, the speaker can recover a full charge after five hours in the sun. You can also use it to charge other mobile devices.

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4. Grace Digital ECOXGEAR ECOXBT

Unlike others who want to go small, the ECOXBT isn’t a wireless speaker that conforms to the “norms.” The ECOXGEAR ECOXBT sports a 9 inches long exterior.

Aside from sporting the largest wireless speaker, this big baby is waterproof. This wireless speaker can survive splashes of water and can also be immersed up to one meter deep for about 30 minutes. Accompanied with this wireless speaker is a battery that runs up to ten hours. This is another mark in favor of this speaker.

So those are our top 4 wireless speakers for backpackers. Do you think we missed a spot? Let us know in the comments below.

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Your Guide To The Best Wireless Bluetooth Speakers For Backpacking

Rank	Image	Speaker	Price	Rating	Find Lowest Price
#1		JBL Charge 3	$$$	9.2	Check on Amazon
#2		Braven BRV-1ra	$$	8.2	Check on Amazon
#3		Eton Rugged Rukus	$$	7.8	Check on Amazon
#4		Grace Digital ECOXGEAR ECOXBT	$$	8.0	Check on Amazon