The ability to stream audio though different headphones and speakers for various users simultaneously is being made very simple and very soon, thanks to HUB – the first hi-fi, wifi hub for headphones and speakers.
Meet HUB
HUB is a tiny and simple-looking system that is making untethering audio a lot easier. Ekko Audio promises audiophile quality sound and a revolutionary listening experience that allows a single source to disseminate audio to 10 sources – be it headphones or speakers.
Here’s how the audio system works. The bite-size base uses power from a wall socket that then uses built-in WiFi to stream audio to the various receivers – including TVs, computers, headphones, speakers, cellphones and more. The bite-size base of HUB has four audio pucks that act as the receiver (the mini version has two audio pucks) which establishes the wireless connection.
The base unit acts as a charging mount for each of the audio puck. These pucks have a 3.5 mm audio jack port to connect to wireless speakers or headphones. The pucks is actually built with volume and mute functions for each user to have control over their listening experience. Through the use of an app, parents can set parental controls to monitor the volume levels for children as well as access equalizer settings. With the ability of the HUB to also connect to powered speakers or a stereo, it creates a wireless multi-zone audio system in the home. This seems like a great option for families.
HUB provides 96kHz / 24-bit high-res sound (equivalent to 24-bit audio) and connects over built-in wifi with low latency streaming. Although the system uses built-in wifi it can be configured to connect to an existing network.
In an effort to look sleek in any home, the small LED lit unit is available in black and silver. If you’re looking to get your hands on the first system of its kind, head over to Kickstarter to snag the audio port at an early bird rate of $169 before the campaign closes in 12 days.
HUB and HUB mini plan to ship in July 2017 and will retail at at $199 and $299 respectively.
Crowdfunding Disclaimer: If you’re investing in a prototype hosted on a crowdfunding platform like Kickstarter or Indiegogo, be wary. Not all projects hosted by crowdfunding platforms come to fruition. Before making a purchase you should read the FAQs of the hosting platform as well as our article on the risks associated with investing in a crowdfunding projects.
