Jan 8, 2009 08:00 AM
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Remember those gimmicky neck cooling fans that came out years ago? Well, the NxSet from S1 Audio is kind of like that, only these are intended to replace your earbuds.
Designed as a sleek and light-weight neckband, NxSET products move the traditional headset to the shoulders, where two integrated speakers on either side of the device project sound up to the userʼs ears, providing full fidelity stereo sound and comfort. At higher volumes, NxSET can be placed in a common area to easily share music or a phone conversation with multiple people.
There are several different models to choose from:
•NxSET Music 1 – Includes two high-fidelity speakers that project audio to the ears when worn
around the neck. When the volume is increased, the device can be used as a miniature and
highly portable speaker system.•NxSET Music 2 – Similar to the Music 1 model with the addition of retractable earbuds for
entirely private listening.•NxSET Mobile 1 – Designed to work with mobile phones, this model includes a single speaker
and retractable earbud along with high performance microphone to replicate an off-the-head
mobile headset. CSR BlueCore™5 Bluetooth™ technology is incorporated to eliminate the need
for cords.•NxSET Mobile 2 – Similar to Mobile 1, this device is designed with music-enabled phones in
mind and features two personal speakers where users can switch between stereo phone headset
and listening to streaming stereo functionality without cords, thanks to CSR BlueCore™5
Bluetooth™ technology. The device also includes two retractable earbuds for completely private
listening.
Whether people will dig the Running Man / Dog collar vibe of the NxSet remains to be seen. A price and a release date have not been determined.
S1 AUDIO INTRODUCES NxSET™, A SERIES OF AUDIO ACCESSORIES WORN AROUND THE
NECK
Product Challenges Conventional Headphone Design for Better Comfort and ShareabilityCES, LAS VEGAS – January 8, 2009 – S1 Audio, makers of innovative MP3 and mobile phone
accessories, today introduced the complete NxSET product series, featuring a revolutionary, around-the-
neck design for better comfort and an easier way to share personal media. The NxSET product series
includes, Music 1 and Music 2 for use with portable music devices, and Mobile 1 and Mobile 2 for use
with mobile phones.Designed as a sleek and light-weight neckband, NxSET products move the traditional headset to the
shoulders, where two integrated speakers on either side of the device project sound up to the userʼs ears,
providing full fidelity stereo sound and comfort. At higher volumes, NxSET can be placed in a common
area to easily share music or a phone conversation with multiple people.“The design concept of headphones has remained largely unchanged for the last 50 years, even while our
personal needs and usage has evolved tremendously – style, extended wear, easy sharing and high
mobility are paramount today,” said Chris Gantz, CEO of S1 Audio. “The NxSET platform revitalizes the
idea of social and mobile listening while affording users unparalleled comfort, even through long listening
periods.”Models include:
•NxSET Music 1 – Includes two high-fidelity speakers that project audio to the ears when worn
around the neck. When the volume is increased, the device can be used as a miniature and
highly portable speaker system.
•NxSET Music 2 – Similar to the Music 1 model with the addition of retractable earbuds for
entirely private listening.
•NxSET Mobile 1 – Designed to work with mobile phones, this model includes a single speaker
and retractable earbud along with high performance microphone to replicate an off-the-head
mobile headset. CSR BlueCore™5 Bluetooth™ technology is incorporated to eliminate the need
for cords.
•NxSET Mobile 2 – Similar to Mobile 1, this device is designed with music-enabled phones in
mind and features two personal speakers where users can switch between stereo phone headset
and listening to streaming stereo functionality without cords, thanks to CSR BlueCore™5
Bluetooth™ technology. The device also includes two retractable earbuds for completely private
listening.Music 1 and 2 are powered by two AA batteries, while Mobile 1 and 2 feature built-in rechargeable batteries. NxSET products have an internal audio amplifier to deliver rich bass and clear, crisp middle- and high-range sound. They also have dual flex points allowing users to customize fit without losing the unique style of the accessory. All models include on-board volume control, mute and multiple music play/forward functions while the Mobile versions also include send/end call button. The patented design keeps the userʼs head and ears “gear free” for a uniquely comfortable audio experience.
About S1 Audio:
Formed in 2006, S1 Audio (www.s1audio.com) is a privately held, independent designer and
manufacturer of wearable audio accessories for the mobile phone and portable music player market.
Offering a variety of revolutionary mobile audio solutions, including NxSET™, BudBud™ and
STREETZ™, S1 Audio products resolve many of the problems typical of common earphones and
headsets, such as discomfort and environmental isolation, without compromising style. S1 Audio
accessories carefully integrate colors, materials and finishes to maximize shareability, wearability and
acoustic and ergonomic functionality. S1 Audio is headquartered in Northbrook, Illinois, in the United
States.
Send an email to Sean Fallon, the author of this post, at sean@gizmodo.com.
Original material is licensed under a Creative Commons License permitting non-commercial sharing with attribution.
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