Accessories

JBL makes ’70s nostalgia hit hard with their new Authentics speakers

Plus a turntable that will def’ly turn tables with its modern feats

Published

October 25, 2023

Vincenz

Photos and Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

From VHS Instagram effects, film-like camera filters, and even wireless speakers that resemble a turntable, retro stuff from the ’70s ’til ’90s are the “in” and “it” thing this 2023 — and it’s very apparent in Gen Z’s social media feed, interests, and even inspo in terms of #OOTDs, visuals, strings, and beats!

The Authentic Classics

Honestly, I’ve been dreaming of owning a speaker that has that ol’ classic retro-spired design while combining today’s modern features in terms of functionality and connectivity.

Well, JBL has finally answered my long time wish with not one, not two, but three classic-looking speakers in this lineup.

JBL Authentics 500

These speakers are the Authentics 200, 300, and 500. As obvious as it sounds, the Authentics 200 is the base model while the Authentics 500 is the best in class with pumped-up audio features. The Authentics 300 is then again, the one with features in-between.

JBL Authentics 200 and 300

JBL has tried to relive the past by resurrecting their L100 Classic Speaker from the 1970s and incorporating its classic design to its new line of smart wireless speakers.

All of these models have modern-day speaker features such as Bluetooth 5.3 or Wi-Fi 6 connectivity with dual 2.4GHz + 5GHz support plus streaming support via Spotify, Apple AirPlay, and even Chromecast. If you’re too lazy to find a song you’d play, don’t worry as Google Assistant and Alexa both save the day.

But if you’re that “traditional” type of listener who prefers controlling stuff manually like the ol’ classic times, a set of knobs and intuitive controls are found at the top of every speaker. That’s within the perimeter of the leather-like enclosure to make the feel as classic as possible.

To make the experience even more classic, these speakers feature a standout Quadrex Grille design which is also made from 100% recycled fabric.

For that added sustainability, most parts are made from 85% recycled plastics and 50% aluminum.

Same styles, different vibes

What makes the Authentics 500 stand out from its smaller siblings other than its size is the fact that it’s the only one to bring an integrated 6.5-inch subwoofer at its bottom part. Together with JBL’s patented SlipStream technology, it’s able to reduce wind distortion and noise with a breeze. It’s also the only speaker in the line to support Dolby Atmos Music.

And if it’s still not evident in the image above showcasing all the speaker parts and components, idk how I’ll entice you that it’s one of the most well thought-out speakers in overall design, sound quality, and functionality.

Meanwhile, the Authentics 300 has a pair of 1-inch tweeters, 5.25-inch woofer, and a 6.5-inch passive radiator. It’s also the only speaker in the line that has a built-in battery that lasts up to 8 hours and can be charged via USB-C. There’s even a convenient metal handle so you can bring it in any part of your home — or maybe in a friend’s house (or Lover?).

Lastly, the Authentics 200 offers enough JBL audio quality in such a compact smart home speaker setup thanks to its dual 25mm tweeters, 5-inch woofer, and 6-inch passive radiator.

Authentic sound experience

JBL has also let us hear and witness how great-sounding these speakers were through the experience booth. They all filled large rooms with a sound quality you wouldn’t expect from speakers of these sizes.

It’s hard to make you all believe just through words but in all honesty, the overall clarity and sound quality is greater than good with the right amount of balance in each of the speakers’ bass, mids, and treble. Whether you’re an audiophile or casual listener, you wouldn’t feel disappointed with how JBL packed a lot of their great audio tech and features.

If JBL’s self-tuning capabilities aren’t your cup ot tea, the JBL One app has got you covered where you can manually configure equalizers, audio features, and many more.

While each Authentics speaker cater to various audio preferences and needs of different types of listeners, I can guarantee that all of them offer great overall sound. JBL has fine-tuned their products for every user to experience and enjoy fully.

Turntable in the Modern Times

JBL Philippines/Harman APAC have acknowledged that there’s a continuous demand for these types of turntables despite the dominance of modern-day audio products. Thus, the JBL Spinner BT was born.

From Taylor Swift to K-Pop acts such as BLACKPINK, SNSD’s Taeyeon, and BTS, vinyls are still being produced both as a marketing advantage for the artist’s overall sales as well as an added perk to any merchandise-collector type of fan.

But having a turntable with a twist of modern-day audio features is a killer product itself. The ability to stream songs via Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX HD encoding plus having the additional voice assistance of both the Google Assistant and Amazon’s Alexa make audio playing as seamless as possible while still keeping that classic retro turntable look and vinyl player functionality as well.

High-quality (HQ) components are considered in this modern yet classic-looking turntable.

There’s the HQ aluminum tonearm to ensure excellent tracking of the record groove without actually making it wear and tear over time. An HQ moving magnetic cartridge also comes pre-installed as well and the hardshell is removable so the cartridge can be replaced without frills when needed.

An aluminum platter is also present and is driven by a belt drive and motor with an optical sensor beneath. This ensures that there’s a precise playback whether you’re playing a full album, EP, or single. A wooden plinth is also considered over plastic for better sound quality and sustainability as well.

The JBL Spinner BT modern turntable is being offered in either Black/Orange or Black/Gold colorways.

Classics Reimagined

JBL Philippines’ ‘Classics Reimagined’ launch event was held at Cove Manila in Okada.

Classics indeed! It looked like we went back in time with all the ’70s-inspired retro outfits, elements, and sets of entertainment around.

And with all these in mind, they’ve announced their latest audio product line that also relive the classics.

Product reveal went through several dance numbers that also showcase each notable music genre that’s now prevalent in 2023’s local music scene such as OPM, hip-hop, and even K-Pop.

From an individual’s curiosity on why bring back the classics to the modern era, Grace Koh, Harman APAC’s Vice President and General Manager confidently answered that Gen Zs are the next big thing when it comes to these products.

While all of these classic-looking products bring back a great amount of nostalgia towards millennials, keeping the younger Gen Zs intact along with their current obsession to everything retro definitely proves that reimagining and reliving the classics is one way forward towards achieving the success of JBL in such a vast market of audio and tech.

To make both the local music and Gen Zs dominance even more present, the night was highlighted by a live band performance courtesy of Lola Amour — one of the hottest and freshest local music acts in the country right now. Together with JBL’s refined sound system, we were able to hear enjoy their Raining in Manila, Pwede Ba?, and Fallen setlist crisp and clear.

ICYMI: they also performed during Power Mac Center’s iPhone 15 midnight launch a week before this happened 🤩

Pricing and Availability

Local pricing for all of these devices weren’t revealed both in the event and even when the press materials were distributed to us. But after some digging, I was able to find out that they’re already being sold at Abenson along with these price tags:

Authentics Speakers

Authentics 200 = PhP 20,999
Authentics 300 = PhP 26,999
Authentics 500 = PhP 39,999

Spinner Turntable

Spinner BT = PhP 30,999
Authentics Spinner = PhP 34,999

The Authentics speakers line are up for pre-orders online. Meanwhile, the Spinner BT turntables are currently sold out as of this writing.

Accessories

Logitech announces G PRO X TKL gaming keyboard

Compact, cordless, portable

Published

May 1, 2024

GadgetMatch

Logitech has announced the G PRO X TKL gaming keyboard, a compact and cordless peripheral meant to assist gamers in the highest levels of competition. The G PRO X TKL comes with a pro-inspired tenkeyless design for more room and comfort, and Lightsync RGB lighting for style. It features dual-shot PBT keycaps for durability and wear and tear prevention.

The keyboard’s standard layout allows users to customize it with third-party keycaps and additional media keys. Users may also set up macros and create quick access while grinding. Speaking of customization, they may pick between Tactile, Linear, or Clicky Switches to tailor-fit the keyboard to their feel.

The G PRO X TKL connects via Lightspeed, ensuring users of lag-free performance at up to a 10-meter range. That’s better responsiveness than standard Bluetooth. Additionally, it has a 1000Hz polling rate. Long gaming sessions are a breeze too, as the keyboard’s battery lasts up to 50 hours. Lastly, for gamers on the go, the G PRO X TKL is portable and comes with its own carry case.

Logitech’s latest gaming peripheral is now available online and at all partner retail outlets, including PC Express, Silicon Valley, DataBlitz, Octagon, Electroworld, Complink, iTech, Techwarez, GameOne, Interpace Computer Systems, GameXtreme, TTI, DynaQuest PC, Digi-Serv Solutions, Concept Computer, NUTECH, DFE (Davao Futurebright Enterprises), Villman, PCWorx, Abenson, Digistore, and Greenware.

Accessories

TP-Link Wi-Fi 7 devices now official: Price, availability

Blazing fast connectivity

Published

April 26, 2024

GadgetMatch

TP-Link has officially announced its new Wi-Fi 7 capable devices, including two new Archer routers and the DECO BE25 mesh. Particularly, the Archer BE230 which promises 49% better transmission speed is now available via TP-Link’s Shopee and selected retailers.

TP-Link’s Wi-Fi 7 products revolutionize the way users experience wireless connectivity. Aside from blazing-fast speeds and reduced latency 20% better than previous generation devices, these products come with several features like Multi-Link Operation to optimize network efficiency.

Users can expect better allocation of resources, reduced interference, and smoother data transmission overall. The devices also offer better and more reliable coverage across larger areas, reducing dead zones. The products also come with new security features and enhancements for better network protection. Among them are stronger encryption standards and enhanced defenses against emerging threats.

New Tapo lineup

Aside from the Wi-Fi 7 products, TP-Link has also unveiled a new lineup of smart home products, including the Tapo C425 wire-free security camera. The brand has also released the Tapo Smart Battery Video Doorbell, Tapo C720, and 2K QHD Smart Floodlight Camera, to name a new. These solutions will be released by May 2024.

Price, availability

The TP-Link Archer BE230 is priced at PhP 5,990. The brand will release another router, the Archer BE400, during the third quarter of 2024.

On the other hand, the TP-Link DECO BE25 mesh will be available by June 2024. It will come in the two-pack and three-pack options for PhP 13,990 and PhP 19,990, respectively.

Lastly, the RE235BE range extender and Archer TBE400UH adapter shall be released in June and July 2024, respectively. They are priced at PhP 4,990 and PhP 3,190.

Accessories

ASUS ROG launches new monitors, peripherals, components, more

At the ROG Launch Event

Published

April 19, 2024

Levi Verora Jr

Thinking of building a legitimate PC gaming setup at your place, or upgrading your existing one? Well, you’re in luck. ASUS ROG has just launched a bunch of new gaming devices during an event held in San Juan City, Metro Manila. There are a lot to choose from to suit your needs, including OLED monitors, peripherals, components, and even mini PCs.

Gaming monitors

Headlining the new batch of gaming monitors is the ROG Swift OLED (PG32UCDM). This 32-inch 4K QD-OLED panel delivers astounding visuals at up to a 240Hz refresh rate. Already in its third generation, the QD-OLED technology helps in displaying vibrant colors, deeper black hues, and brighter highlights. The monitor also promises 0.03ms response time and an advanced custom heatsink for cooling.

Alternatively, The ROG Strix XG27UCS and XG27ACS models bring games to life. The fast IPS panels offer 180Hz and 160Hz refresh rates, respectively, and 1ms GTG response time. These products are G-SYNC compatible and support Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) Sync for smooth and tear-free gameplay. Moreover, they are DisplayHDR 400 certified and offer a wide DCI-P3 gamut. Users may also tinker settings further with the AI-powered GamePlus technology and Dynamic Shadow Boost feature.

There are six monitor models in total ranging from 24-inch to 49-inch sizes, available by order basis for the following prices:

ROG Swift OLED PG49WCD: PhP 107,690
ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM: PhP 93,190
ROG Swift OLED PG34WCDM: PhP 89,940
ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM: PhP 65,890
ROG Swift Pro PG248QP 540Hz: PhP 63,290
ROG Strix XG27ACS: PhP 17,990

Gaming peripherals

ROG Falchion RX LP

Looking for a new keyboard? the ROG Falchion RX Low Profile is a 65% compact gaming keyboard. With low-profile switches and two dampening foams, it offers an unprecedented typing and gaming experience. The keyboard can be connected via ROG SpeedNova wireless and the ROG Omni Receiver. Its interactive touch panel allows for several customization options.

ROG Carnyx

For those who love streaming their sessions or simply prefer communicating with teammates, the ROG Carnyx cardioid USB microphone features a 25mm condenser capsule and a 24-bit, 192kHz sampling rate capacity. It comes with high-pass and built-in pop filters to reduce noise and vocal plosives as well, while its shock mount minimizes vibrations.

The ROG Falchion RX LP is now on general sale for PhP 8,580, available in both blue and red colors. Gamers may choose between the black and white ROG Carynx variants for PhP 9,350.

ROG Cetra True Wireless

For an immersive audio experience, the ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova remains the brand’s standard. The versatile gaming headphones can connect using Bluetooth or ROG SpeedNova 2.4GHz. It supports 24-bit 96kHz audio, Dirac Opteo, and Adaptive ANC to immerse users to high-resolution audio. Bone-Conduction AI microphones complement the headphones for superior call quality. Also, the headphones last up to 46 hours as well on a single charge.

ROG Keris II Ace

For those into FPS titles, the ROG Keris II Ace has an ergonomic shape tested by esports professionals. The 54-gram gaming mouse has industry-leading features for competitive play, comfort, and control. It is complemented by the ROG Polling Rate Booster for smooth cursor control. This ROG-exclusive accessory upgrades the polling rate up to 4,000Hz in wireless and 8,000Hz in wired mode.

Both the Keris II Ace gaming mice and ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova gaming headphones will be released in May 2024, with prices yet to be announced.

ROG Ace Collection

The ROG Ace collection will also be coming soon. These gaming mice and mousepads are designed with the help of esports professionals and world record aimers at Aim Lab. They will be available in the following models later this year:

ROG Harpe Ace Aim Lab Edition
ROG Falchion Ace
ROG Hone Ace Aim Lab Edition
ROG Hone Ace XXL
ROG Moonstone Ace L

Back to the Future series

Furthermore, those thinking of a DIY PC assembly will benefit from ASUS’ Back-to-the-Future series which features hidden-connector design for a cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing look. The series includes motherboards, graphic cards, and chassis for the following prices:

Motherboards

ROG Maximus Z790 Hero BTF: PhP 42,460 (May 2024)
TUF Gaming Z790 BTF WiFi: PhP 22,430 (April 2024)

Graphics cards

ROG Strix RTX 4090 O24G BTF Gaming: PhP 141,370 (May 2024)
TUF RTX 4070 TIS O16G BTF (white): PhP 68,560 (April 2024)

Chassis

TUF Gaming GT302 (white): PhP 7,360
TUF Gaming GT302 (black): PhP 7,070
ROG Hyperion BTF (black): Coming soon (May 2024)

Coming soon: ROG Rapture WiFi 7, ROG NUC

Lastly, the ROG Rapture quadband WiFi 7 gaming router is tailored for next-gen computing, with speeds of up to 25Gbps and dual 10Gbps ports. You may enjoy up to 16 simultaneous WiFi streams for several content like videos, games, and browsing for everyone at home.

On the other hand, the ROG NUC features Intel Core Ultra 9 processors and NVIDIA RTX 4070 graphics, all packaged in a compact 2.5L form factor.

This ultra-small yet ultra-powerful chassis is designed for quick system access, making upgrades and cleaning quick and easy. Compatible with the Raikiri Pro controller, the ROG NUC is the ultimate choice for gamers seeking uncompromised performance and flexibility.