T3 India

Wearables

Headphone Zone partners with Oriveti

by

The latest collaboration between Headphone Zone and Oriveti presents the Blackbird, an IEM designed from scratch for the Indian audiophile community. Building upon their successful partnership that produced the OD200, this new premium IEM is positioned competitively under ₹5,000.

The Blackbird implements a ground-breaking new hybrid driver configuration, combining a 10mm dynamic driver for powerful bass reproduction with two custom balanced armature drivers for precise mids and treble delivery. This IEM is specifically designed for enthusiasts looking to advance from entry-level IEMs in the ₹2,000-3,000 range, offering a kick-ass bass, with a rich dynamic, engaging sound signature but without any treble fatigue.

Featuring a lightweight acrylic shell construction that prioritizes comfort, the Blackbird comes complete with six sets of ear tips, a detachable cable, and a premium carrying case. The IEM demonstrates versatile compatibility across various audio sources, making it an amazing choice for audiophiles looking for an upgrade.

“When designing the Blackbird – we first started with the price. It had to be under Rs. 5000. Then we fixed the sound signature. It had to be something bass focussed and fun. Oriveti took that brief and ran with it to create something we can all be proud of.” says Raghav Somani, Founder and CEO of Headphone Zone.

The Headphone Zone X Oriveti Blackbird has been launched and is now available for purchase exclusively on Headphone Zone at a price of ₹4,999/- (MRP: ₹5,999/-).

Everything You Need To Know About the Headphone Zone X Oriveti Blackbird In-Ears With 1DD + 2BA Drivers.

  • Powerful 10mm Dynamic Driver for Deep Impactful Bass

The Blackbird features a specially-designed 10mm composite dynamic driver that delivers deep, natural bass with rich lower midrange presence. The large driver size enables excellent air displacement, resulting in powerful low frequencies while maintaining warmth and balance throughout the sound spectrum. This custom-tuned driver ensures that bass notes hit with authority while preserving the natural timbre of instruments.

  • Precision-Tuned Dual Balanced Armature Drivers

Supporting the dynamic driver are two custom balanced armature drivers dedicated to mids and highs. These precision-engineered drivers provide exceptional detail and clarity while maintaining a smooth, fatigue-free listening experience – perfect for extended listening sessions. The balanced armature configuration ensures accurate reproduction of vocals and instruments with pristine resolution.

  • Bass-Forward Signature with Audiophile Precision

The Blackbird’s tuning strikes an ideal balance between energetic bass response and high-end clarity. With distortion levels below 0.08%, it delivers punchy lows while maintaining crystal clear mids and natural, well-controlled treble that never becomes harsh or fatiguing. This careful tuning ensures that while bass is prominent, it never overshadows the overall musical presentation.

  • Advanced 3D Printed Design for Superior Acoustics

The precisely engineered 3D printed shell creates an optimal acoustic chamber that minimises unwanted resonance. This construction enhances sound isolation and ensures durability. The ergonomic design has been refined through multiple iterations to achieve acoustic performance.

  • Ergonomically Crafted To Fit Like A Dream

The Blackbird is ergonomically designed for a snug, secure fit. Its lightweight construction ensures exceptional comfort, even during extended listening sessions. The Blackbird strikes a perfect harmony between comfort and outstanding audio performance.

  • Premium Cable with Versatile Connectivity

Each Blackbird comes with an audiophile-grade cable featuring a standard 3.5mm termination for universal device compatibility. The detachable design with 0.78mm 2-pin connectors allows for easy cable upgrades to suit your preferences. The high-quality braided cable ensures minimal microphonics and excellent durability for daily use.

  • Comes With Exquisite Accessories To Get You Started

The package includes six pairs of ear tips (three bullet-shaped and three bowl-shaped) in different sizes for optimal fit and comfort. Each tip style offers unique sound characteristics, allowing users to fine-tune their listening experience. A premium carrying case keeps your IEMs protected while on the go, completing this thoughtfully curated set of accessories. The case features a robust construction with ample space for the IEMs and additional tips.

In The Box:

1. Headphone Zone X Oriveti Blackbird

2. Detachable Cable

3. Carrying Case

4. Bullet Shape Eartips 3 Pairs (S,M,L)

5. Bowl Shape Eartips 3 Pairs (S,M,L)

Specifications and Technical Information:

DriverHybrid Drivers
Driver Configuration1DD + 2BA Hybrid Drivers
Impedance16 Ohms
Plug3.5mm (Single-Ended)
Connector0.78mm 2-Pin
MicrophoneWithout Mic
Frequency Response5-20kHz
Sensitivity107±3dB/mW, 1kHz
Distortion<0.08%
Shell Material3D Printed Shell For Optimized Acoustic Structure
Wearing TypeIn-Ear
Detachable CableYes

Top 5 Performance Wear for Your Daily Workout

by

1.Under Armour Camo short sleeve

This is arguably the most lightest feeling running tee you will find, good for longer distances as well as faster run. They are almost translucent with incredible comfort, perfect stretch, and an ultra-lightweight feel. It literally feels like you’re wearing nothing, perfect for tropical conditions.

Pricing and Availability

  • ₹3,499
  • underarmour.in

2. Under Armour Vanish Elite Short sleeve

 Ideally suited for gym and outdoor workouts as when you sweat, the heavier most workout tees get. UA Vanish is light, extra stretchy, breathable, and fast drying so you can work hard without getting weighed down. It has 10% elastane, which makes it stretchy and does not allow it to stick like usual tees.

Pricing and Availability

  • ₹5,299
  • underarmour.in

3. ASICS VENTILATE ACTIBREEZE

 The ASICS Ventilate Actibreeze T-shirt is engineered for runners tackling warm conditions. Featuring Actibreeze technology, it offers advanced breathability through strategically placed, body-mapped fabric that targets key heat zones for optimal ventilation. Lightweight and quick-drying, the shirt wicks away sweat to keep you comfortable and dry during intense runs.  

Pricing and Availability

  • ₹3,299
  • asics.co.in  

4. Athlos distance tee

Distance runners are for outdoor runners, especially in tropical climate. Embracing the heat and humidity, and cooling yourself quicker. Crafted in Raglan style, the distance tee is cut for speed and flexibility. Because the Distance tee is intended to be worn against your skin, the flatlock stitching eliminates scratchy seams.

Pricing and Availability

  • ₹1797
  •  goathlos.com

5. Athlos Zero Weight tee

These are designed for long distance runners running in tropical conditions. These are ultra light tees made with 110gsm knit keeps things whisper-light, with a high wicking rate, ensuring you don’t feel the weight. Fast-drying, breathable, and cooling against your skin ensures a comfortable long run, always.

Pricing and Availability

  • ₹2797
  •  goathlos.com

boAt Introduces Nirvana Crystl TWS

by

Nirvana by boAt, the premium audio experience from boAt announces Nirvana Crystl — a revolutionary and new TWS earbuds that are specifically designed for audiophiles and professionals always on the move. Engineered for an immersive, yet uninterrupted listening experience, the earbuds are futuristic clear case tech detailed design using cutting-edge features that include up to 32dB Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ powered by Mimi. Dive deep into your favourite music, game on at peak performance, or attend to all your important calls, Nirvana Crystl delivers a promising crystal-clear audio with powerful bass and unmatched comfort.

Nirvana Crystl earbuds are crafted with a futuristic design that pushes the boundaries of technology. Featuring pathbreaking Clear Case Tech, these earbuds offer a sleek, transparent aesthetic that perfectly complements their cutting-edge features. Every detail has been meticulously designed to deliver an unmatched audio experience, blending style with state-of-the-art engineering for the modern audiophile. Nirvana Crystl is all out to set a new benchmark for premium TWS earbuds. It delivers an audio experience that promises to adapt to your aural needs. Complemented by brand’s own proprietary Spatial Audio technology, Crystl surrounds you with rich, 3D-like soundscapes, elevating every beat, note, and word that you listen to. The TWS boast 32dB Active Noise Cancellation which blocks out uninvited noises from the surroundings and ensures a truly immersive escape into your world of music, movies, and games. If you are always on the move, its Multipoint Connectivity helps with seamless connectivity and instantaneous switching between devices, taking multitasking to the next level. Additionally, the Adaptive EQ (powered by Mimi) can intelligently tune the audio frequencies to suit your hearing preferences, thus offering you a personalized and highly optimized listening experience.

Nirvana Crystl TWS sport an impressive 100-hour playback time with a single full charge. Endless entertainment guaranteed for weeks. What’s more? A mere 10-minute ASAP Charge boosts the TWS to provide up to a whopping 220 minutes of uninterrupted movies, music and calls. The refreshed CMF design charging case with its 480mAh battery is highly optimized for long-lasting performance whenever and wherever you need your audio excellence.

Designed keeping in mind the modern professional of today, and a gaming enthusiast alike, the Nirvana Crystl is built around the most powerful and advanced Bluetooth v5.3 chip. The technology ensures a fast and reliable connectivity even when used at a wider distance. Four powerful microphones, built using 4Mics ENx Technology, guarantee exceptional call clarity by reducing each unwanted background noise. So, whether you’re planning conference calls with clients, or catching up with friends and colleagues, your voice will always sound crisp and clear on the other end. Gamers can take advantage of the BEAST Mode which promises up to 60ms of ultra-low latency for seamless audio-visual sync. In-Ear Detection also impresses with smartly pausing playback and resuming when you remove or wear them back. Lastly, IPX4 water resistance keeps the earbuds safe from sweat and splashes, making it a perfect companion for workouts and daily commutes.

Nirvana Crystl integrates boAt Hearables app to give you the power of customized sound settings and noise cancellation levels. Google Fast Pair (GFPS) also helps with instant, effortless pairing between compatible devices.

Availability:

Nirvana Crystl TWS will be available in Blazing Red, Quantum Black and Yellow Pop colours for an exclusive price of just INR 2,499 on boAt official website, Flipkart, Amazon.in, Blinkit and select retail stores. 

BoAt Nirvana X TWS – Review

by

 One of the key highlights of the affordable boAt Nirvana X TWS is its Knowles Balanced Armature Drivers and LDAC support. This advanced driver technology ensures that audiophiles and casual listeners experience music as the artist intended. The boAt Nirvana X is built for extended listening, offering up to 24 hours of playback on a single charge and an incredible 120 hours with the charging case. With ENC, Bluetooth 5.2, and an unmatched 120-hour battery life, the boAt Nirvana X is a top-tier choice for anyone looking for premium TWS earbuds on a budget.

Pricing and Availability

  • ₹2,799
  • boat-lifestyle.com

Asics Gel Nimbus 27 – Review

by

Asics has really upped their game, refining the cushioning and launching some standout colours. The Gel Nimbus 27 is no exception with the new teal colour. Just like the Gel Kayano series, the Gel Nimbus is also among the more popular and evergreen models, and it’s extremely tough to keep innovating without diluting the true identity of these iconic products. With the Nimbus 27, Asics has absolutely cracked the cushioning. It’s arguably now the best cushioned shoe available in the market to log high-mileage training runs. The FF Blast Eco Plus cushioning creates a lighter and softer cushioning experience. Compared to the Nimbus 25, which was equally good on cushioning but felt a little too soft on landing, the 26 was marginally improved, but with the 27, they’ve nailed it, finally. The Nimbus cushioning makes the shoe ideally suited for people training for full marathons or ultras, and at the same time, it’s fabulous for people logging more than 10-12k steps consistently with their walks.

We put the Nimbus 27 through some extreme conditions by running the hilly route of Tata Ultra (2000 feet elevation gain), some extreme pounding across the 50k route, and it delivered on all counts.  The impact on hamstrings the next day was negligible, a testimony to the top-quality cushioning of these pairs. The hills also tested the grip of the outsole of the shoes, both while climbing and downhill. The outsole looks quite normal in appearance, but the grip it provides is quite phenomenal. Plus, even after that brutal 50k thrashing, the shoe showed no obvious signs of wear, which speaks volumes about its durability—something you’d expect from a premium trainer like this. The only small negative is the design of the uppers. We liked the Nimbus 25 upper look more, but functionally, this does not make any difference while running or doing high-impact workouts. The Nimbus 27 has a soft jacquard mesh upper that comfortably wraps your foot while keeping it ventilated, much needed in tropical conditions.

Pricing and Availability

  • ₹16,999
  • asics.co.in