Tech News
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LIAN LI VECTOR V150 INF: Infinity Mirror Front Panel Meets Compact m-ATX Performance
April 30th, 2026, Taipei, Taiwan – LIAN LI Industrial Co. Ltd., a leading manufacturer of chassis and PC accessories, announces the VECTOR V150 INF, a compact mATX chassis featuring a tempered glass infinity-mirror front panel, two pre-installed 140mm ARGB PWM front fans, and a 120mm rear fan. The V150 INF delivers both visual impact and effective cooling out of the box. A built-in hub enables fan and lighting control via standard motherboard software or Wireless mode, which, when paired with an L-Wireless controller (sold separately), allows full customization through L-Connect 3. Inside, a customizable side bracket offers a choice between additional cooling or expanded storage, while a pre-installed adjustable GPU anti-sag bracket ensures stable support for modern graphics cards. With support for standard and back-connect m-ATX motherboards, 400mm of GPU clearance, and clean cable management, the V150 INF provides a refined and visually striking platform for compact gaming builds.
- Precision-crafted infinity glass front panel with dual fan cutouts
- Three pre-installed ARGB PWM fans with infinity mirror hubs (2×140mm front, 1×120mm rear)
- Built-in hub supporting motherboard sync or wireless control via L-Connect 3
- Customizable side bracket for storage expansion or cooling
- Pre-installed adjustable GPU anti-sag bracket
- Supports standard and back-connect m-ATX motherboards
Infinity Mirror Design with Precision Airflow
The VECTOR V150 INF features a tempered glass front panel with a built-in infinity mirror, creating a strong, immersive visual effect. The panel includes precision-cutouts for the two pre-installed 140mm front fans, ensuring direct airflow intake. These intakes are protected by removable mesh filters that can be easily detached by turning them left and pulling away, making maintenance simple and tool-freeWireless-Ready Cooling Ecosystem
The case is equipped with three pre-installed fans: two 140mm ARGB PWM fans at the front and one 120mm ARGB PWM fan at the rear. All three fans feature infinity mirror hubs to match the chassis aesthetics. The included built-in hub offers dual functionality: it can sync lighting and speed directly with the motherboard, or switch to "Wireless Mode." When paired with an L-Wireless controller (sold separately), users can manage fan behavior and lighting effects wirelessly via L-Connect 3, seamlessly integrating the case into the L-Wireless ecosystem.Optimized for Modern Builds
Storage and cooling options are flexible, with a modular side bracket that lets builders choose between additional cooling (side fans) or expanded SSD storage. The case supports a 360mm radiator (max 65mm thick) at the top and standard m-ATX, Mini-ITX, and m-ATX back-connect motherboards for a cable-free aesthetic. It features a pre-installed, adjustable GPU anti-sag bracket to keep heavy graphics cards level. A dedicated GPU power-cable passthrough in the PSU shroud allows clean routing of power cables directly to the graphics card. -
ADATA Unveils New Product Strategy to Accelerate Its Expansion into the Next AI Era
25th Anniversary Marks a New Chapter in Product Evolution as Full Lineup to Debut at Computex
Taipei , Taiwan – April 29 , 2026 – ADATA Technology, a global leader in memory modules and flash storage, is celebrating its 25th anniversary with the official launch of a new product strategy spanning key series across its ADATA and XPG brands. The lineup includes XPG memory series NOVAKEY and ARMAX, XPG SSD series MARS, ADATA SSD series NEXRA, and external SSD series URBAN.
This launch reflects ADATA's continued evolution in product technology, performance, and application positioning, while also marking an upgrade in product strategy and architecture. It underscores the brand's forward-looking vision for AI-driven applications and next-generation high-speed standards. Guided by its long-standing brand spirit, “Innovating the Future,” and aligned with its 25th anniversary theme, “Innovate to Inspire,” ADATA is reinforcing market communication through a clearer and more cohesive product language—continuing to drive future growth through innovation.
Evolving from Strategy to Structure and Redefining the Future Product Portfolio
As AI adoption accelerates and computing power continues to advance, memory and storage technologies have become essential to content creation, productivity, gaming, and intelligent applications. With years of expertise in the DRAM and flash storage markets, ADATA has built a broad product portfolio spanning consumer storage, system platforms, industrial control and vertical integration, as well as enterprise data center and server storage. Across these segments, ADATA delivers comprehensive hardware and software-integrated solutions.
As products continue to evolve and user needs become increasingly diverse, ADATA is also refining its product architecture and brand language to build a more unified and scalable ecosystem across ADATA and XPG. This approach enhances future product planning and market communication efficiency, allowing product value to be understood not only through technical specifications, but also through clearer market positioning and easier product selection.
Five Core Series Debut to Address Diverse Usage Scenarios with Greater Precision
The five newly introduced series span three major product categories: memory modules, SSDs, and external SSDs. Built around distinct usage scenarios, they integrate performance tiering with function-driven design to form a more consistent and structured product framework. Through clearer series segmentation, users can more quickly identify each product's positioning and ideal use case, improving both purchase efficiency and the overall user experience.
For gaming and high-performance applications, NOVAKEY, XPG's flagship DDR5 memory series, is designed for AI developers, professional gamers, and creators seeking top-tier performance and cutting-edge technology. ARMAX is built for sustained high-load operation, making it ideal for intensive gaming, multitasking, and 3D rendering.
In high-speed storage, the MARS Gen5 SSD is centered on ultra-fast loading and high-speed transfer, meeting the dual demands of performance and thermal control for advanced gamers and content creators. For AI and content creation workloads, the NEXRA Gen5 SSD is tailored for high-resolution video production, AI inference, and large-scale data processing, delivering both high performance and high capacity. Meanwhile, the URBAN external SSD is designed around the rhythm of everyday life, supporting mobile work, cross-device file access, and on-the-go creativity with a focus on portability, high-speed transfer, and data security.
In addition, ADATA is launching a new concept website that presents the design philosophy and application scenarios behind each series, helping users quickly understand product differences and identify the most suitable solution. Through user-centric product planning and a more systematic portfolio structure, ADATA is strengthening its product strategy and shaping a more scalable roadmap for the future—one that is better aligned with evolving market needs.
For more information on the new product series, please visit ADATA's event website:
https://event.adata.com/unlock-the-next-generation/en/ -
Pop 2 Vision by Fractal
Crafted for clarity
Announcing Pop 2 Vision — a new addition to the Pop 2 series, combining panoramic design with a sleek dual-chamber layout.
Pop 2 Vision is crafted to provide a clean, uncluttered view into its refined interior. With support for graphics cards up to 412 mm, top-mounted radiators up to 360 mm, and compatibility with reverse connector motherboards, it offers flexibility for modern gaming components. Out of the box, it features four pre-installed reverse-blade fans, integrated with hidden cables and frames to make achieving a clean build effortless.
On the outside, Pop 2 Vision offers easy access through removable glass panels, together with a ventilated right-side panel and magnetically attached top mesh filter. Inside, dedicated cable routing space, a large cable grommet, and modular power supply mounting help create a smooth building experience. A top-mounted I/O provides quick connectivity with two USB ports and an audio jack, while RGB versions also include integrated controls for effortless lighting adjustments.
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Alphacool Apex Grip Fittings & Adapter
Alphacool International GmbH from Braunschweig is a pioneer in PC water-cooling technology. With one of the most comprehensive product portfolios in the industry and over 20 years of experience, Alphacool is once again expanding its portfolio with the new Apex Grip Fittings & Adapter.
The new Alphacool Apex Grip Fittings are based on a modular system that enables flexible and customized connection solutions for modern custom water-cooling setups. Combined with the refined Apex design, high-quality workmanship, and user-friendly handling, the series is ideal for demanding systems.
A key feature is the integrated silicone surface on the outer grip area of each fitting. It provides improved grip when tightening by hand and makes installation easier, especially in confined spaces. This gives users greater comfort and control during assembly.
Made from high-quality brass, the fittings offer excellent stability and long-term durability. A premium coating helps prevent paint chipping while emphasizing the elegant appearance of the series.
Precision manufacturing ensures a reliable seal and supports high-flow performance throughout the cooling loop. The modular design also offers a high degree of versatility for a wide range of custom water-cooling configurations.
The offset fittings provide additional flexibility: both the offset section and the threaded head can be rotated through 360°, allowing the connection point to be aligned precisely for clean and efficient tube routing.The Apex Grip Fittings are now available in the Alphacool Shop.
Features
Apex Fittings with modular design
Integrated silicone surface:Optimized for better grip
Precision manufacturing ensures high flow performance
For 13mm / 16mm HardTubes or SoftTubes
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BLUETTI FridgePower, BlueCell 200, Display 1 Uninterruptible Power Supply Review @ APH Networks
A good portion of the modern world is blessed with the option ot have power available 24/7 and can rely on it to be available whenever it is needed. So, what happens when you cannot trust the grid or need a little extra insurance for the rolling brown outs that tend to happen in the summer?
The BLUETTI FridgePower, BlueCell 200, and Display 1 are a powerful and scalable UPS system -- both literally and figuratively -- for all your fridge, PC, or anything else power backup needs.
Much like the UPS you have connected to your television, PC or homelab this super thin battery backup solution is designed to keep your appliances running to prevent food spoilage and could save you money in the long run.
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Best Whiskey Glassware Sets that you can find on Amazon for the Home Bar
There is a quiet, meditative power in the ritual of pouring a dram at the end of a long day. Whether you are revisiting a familiar bottle or finally cracking the seal on that special single malt you've been saving, the experience is inextricably linked to the vessel. Pouring a fine whiskey into a generic water glass is like listening to a symphony through cheap headphones; the notes are there, but the soul is missing.
For the modern enthusiast, a proper whiskey set is more than just your bar tools. It is a statement of intent. It says that you value the craft used to create the spirit and the required pause in your day to enjoy it. Today’s best sets combine classic weight with contemporary lines, offering everything from heavy-bottomed tumblers to lead-free crystal decanters that look as good on a mahogany sideboard as they do on a minimalist glass shelf in a city loft.
Here are the four best picks for 2026 that bring a touch of "The Decanted Life" to your home bar.
Our Best Picks
1. Liiton Everest Whiskey Set (Crystal Edition)The Modern Masterpiece
Why pick this If you want a set that sparks a conversation before the first drop is even poured, the Liiton Everest is the undisputed king. The glasses and decanter feature a 3D precision-molded interior base shaped like the Mount Everest mountain range. Beyond the visual flair, this system works as a natural aerator, swirling the whiskey to release hidden aromatics as you pour. It is weighted beautifully, providing that satisfying heft that makes every sip feel significant.
- Key highlights 100% lead-free crystalline glass; unique 3D mountain design for aeration; heavy-base tumblers for stability.
- Best for The enthusiast who appreciates avant-garde design and wants a set that doubles as a piece of sculpture.
2. MioSorella Personalized Whiskey Decanter Set
The Heirloom Choice
Why pick this There is something inherently timeless about seeing your own signature or initials etched into crystal. This MioSorella set offers a sleek, modern silhouette that avoids the clunky look of older decanters. It includes the decanter and two matching glasses, all of which can be customized with high-precision engraving service. It is the perfect way to claim your home office or library as a personal sanctuary, ensuring your favorite pour always feels like a special occasion.
- Key highlights High-quality custom engraving; lead-free glass with high clarity; weighted base for a premium hand-feel.
- Best for Those looking to add a personal signature to their bar or looking for a high-impact personalized gift.
3. JoyJolt Gatsby 7-Piece Whiskey Decanter Set
The Roaring Twenty-Six
Why pick this For those who want their home bar to feel like a scene from a vintage parlor, the Gatsby set is the clear winner. This is a massive arrangement (one 27 oz decanter and six 10 oz rocks glasses) that features a beautiful, vertically-etched Art Deco design. It is built for the host who doesn’t just pour for one; it gives you enough matching glassware to entertain a full table of friends. The airtight stopper is particularly robust, ensuring your spirit stays fresh between gatherings.
- Key highlights Elaborate Art Deco vertical etching; includes six matching old-fashioned glasses; lead-free glass with an airtight decanter seal.
- Best for The social host who needs enough matching glassware for a larger group and loves a classic, vintage aesthetic.
4. Glencairn Official Whisky Glasses (Set of 6)
The Aficionado's Standard
Why pick this Sometimes, you want to move past the rocks glass and get serious about nosing. The Glencairn is the official glass of the Scotch Whisky Association, and for good reason. Its tulip shape is designed to concentrate the vapors of the spirit, directing the complex aromas straight to your nose. This "trade pack" of six ensures that whether you're hosting a formal tasting or just having a few friends over for a vertical flight, everyone is tasting exactly what the master blender intended.
- Key highlights Award-winning design for nosing and tasting; official glass of the whiskey industry; full lead-free crystal.
- Best for The purist who prioritizes the technical analysis of the spirit and wants a full set for group tastings.
The InsightDecanting, Dilution, and the "Dead Air" Rule
Investing in a high-quality set is the first step, but how you use it determines the quality of your dram. Here is how to treat your new glassware with the respect it deserves:
- The Decanter Timer Unlike wine, whiskey does not breathe in a way that improves it over long periods. A decanter is primarily for aesthetic presentation. If you plan on leaving a rare bottle in a decanter for months, ensure it has a high-quality, airtight ground-glass stopper to prevent oxidation.
- The "Dead Air" Rule As you drink from a decanter, the headspace (the empty air) increases. Too much air will eventually dull the flavor profile of your whiskey. Once the decanter is less than one-third full, it is best to finish the dram or move it back to a smaller bottle.
- To Ice or Not to Ice A heavy-bottomed tumbler is designed for those who enjoy a large rock or a splash of water. If you are using the Glencairn tasting glasses, skip the ice. A single drop of room-temperature distilled water is all you need to open up the oils in a high-proof whiskey.
- Temperature Management Keep your decanter out of direct sunlight. UV rays are the natural enemy of aged spirits, and a beautiful crystal decanter can act like a magnifying glass, heating the liquid and degrading the flavor.
Final WordsA whiskey set is one of the few purchases that actually slows time down. It forces you to sit, to pour with intention, and to appreciate the weight of the glass in your hand. Whether you choose the artistic peaks of the Liiton Everest, the personal touch of the MioSorella, the vintage flair of the JoyJolt Gatsby, or the technical precision of the Glencairn, you are doing more than buying barware. You are upgrading a ritual. When you finally sit back with a pour that looks as good as it tastes, you will realize that the right glass doesn't just hold the whiskey; it honors it.
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CORSAIR FRAME 4000D WOOD RS & 4000X RS Review @ Vortez
There are a few indicators in the world and if you pay attention you can often see them and perdict changes, and sometimes predict the future. When I look at the new Corsair Frame 4000D Wood RS I see innovation sliding from the ground breaking product designs we love to see transform into copies of copies of copies.
The CORSAIR FRAME 4000X RS and CORSAIR FRAME 4000D WOOD RS arrive as the latest entries in CORSAIR’s evolving FRAME family, expanding a platform that’s clearly aimed at modern DIY builders who value flexibility as much as aesthetics.
I will not deny that "wood" is the new painted steel in the GenZ era of system builds and was made famous by Fractal with their Design North chassis. We reviewed the Design North XL, and is one of the few review cases I have held on to because, it is that good. Thing is, when you have a popular product there will be others that try to copy you and "this" is one of those.
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The 4 Best Cigar Coolers for the Weekend Smoker on Amazon
There is a specific kind of heartbreak known only to the cigar lover: reaching into a beautiful wooden humidor on a Friday evening, pouring a glass of single malt, and finding that your favorite Maduro has become as dry as a high-desert canyon. Or worse, discovering it has become spongy and damp from a brutal East Coast humidity spike or a sudden California heatwave. We live in an age where our thermostats are smart, and our watches are miniature computers, yet many of us still entrust our precious leaves to a box that is essentially a passive passenger to the room’s climate.
For the urban dweller, space is a premium, but taste is not. You don't need a walk-in cabinet that belongs in a pre-war social club; you need an electric humidor (a "cigar fridge") that fits on a sideboard or next to your record player. These machines are the true guardians of the "weekend smoke," ensuring that whether you’re lighting up a celebratory Davidoff or a reliable everyday stick, the burn is even, the oils are intact, and the experience is exactly what you spent all week looking forward to.
Here are the four best picks for 2026 that offer the perfect C/P (Cost-to-Performance) ratio for the modern enthusiast.
Our Best Picks
1) NEEDONE 16L Electric Cigar Humidor Pro 1S
The High-Tech Sanctuary
Why pick this: If the original NEEDONE was the standard, the "Pro 1S" is the upgrade for the smoker who demands absolute climate certainty. This model goes beyond simple cooling; it is a full-fledged thermostatic cabinet with both heating and cooling capabilities. This means that even if your city loft gets a bit drafty in February, your sticks remain at a steady, blissful 65 or 70 degrees. The upgraded digital control is more responsive, and the silent operation ensures it won't interrupt your reading or jazz records.
- Key highlights: Thermostatic control (heating and cooling); quiet smart control system; high-quality Spanish cedar shelves and drawer.
- Best for: Discerning smokers who want a compact, professional-grade vault that handles both summer heat and winter chill.
2) Express 33L Electric Cigar Humidor CabinetThe Mid-Sized Workhorse
Why pick this: Sitting right in the "sweet spot" of capacity and footprint, the Epress 33L is designed for the collector who has outgrown entry-level boxes but isn't ready for a full-sized furniture piece. With a 250-count capacity, it offers enough breathing room to age several boxes while keeping individual "daily" sticks easily accessible. Like the high-end units, it features both cooling and heating, ensuring your collection stays in that perfect 60 to 70 degree window regardless of the outside weather.
- Key highlights: 250-stick capacity; dual heating and cooling functions; high-precision thermostatic sensors for minimal temperature fluctuation.
- Best for: The growing enthusiast who needs a bit more volume without sacrificing the sleek, urban look of a tabletop unit.
3) Prestige Import Group: The ClevelanderThe Modern Industrialist
Why pick this: The Clevelander is for the smoker who appreciates a clean, industrial aesthetic. The stainless steel trim and black cabinet give it a professional "kitchen appliance" feel that looks fantastic next to a high-end espresso machine or bar cart. It utilizes thermoelectric cooling to keep the internal environment stable without the vibration of a traditional compressor. While it is a veteran in the market, its consistent performance and reliable seal have kept it as a top-tier recommendation for apartment living.
- Key highlights: Sleek stainless steel and black finish; battery-powered external hygrometer for easy monitoring; removable cedar trays for flexible stacking.
- Best for: The weekend smoker who wants a reliable, stylish unit with a "pro-kitchen" look.
4) KingChii 16L Electric Humidor (Upgraded Edition)The Budget C/P King
Why pick this: Sometimes you just want the job done without the lifestyle tax. KingChii has carved out a niche by offering the same core thermoelectric tech as the big names at a fraction of the price. This version maintains a steady climate for about 100 sticks, using the same Spanish cedar as its pricier cousins to help maintain flavor and humidity. For the smoker who would rather spend their extra cash on a box of Padróns than on a fancy brand name, this is the smart move.
- Key highlights: Competitive pricing; compact 16L capacity; easy-to-read digital temperature display and touch controls.
- Best for: The practical smoker who wants electric climate control on a strict budget.
The Insight: The "70/70" Myth and Urban Reality- The Cooling Advantage: In an urban apartment, the biggest threat is heat. If your room hits 80°F, you risk a tobacco beetle outbreak. An electric cooler is primarily your insurance against "the hatch."
- Season Your Cedar: Do not just toss your cigars in the fridge the day it arrives. You must "season" the cedar shelves with distilled water or a seasoning pack. If the wood is dry, it will steal the moisture from your cigars like a sponge.
- Humidity Sources: Most of these units are coolers, not active humidifiers. You still need a reliable humidity source inside. Use Boveda packs or a high-quality electronic humidifier. The fridge provides the climate; you provide the moisture.
- Airflow is King: Do not pack your cigars like sardines. These units rely on fan-forced air to keep the humidity even. Leave a little breathing room between your sticks so the air can circulate to the bottom drawers.
Final WordsInvesting in an electric humidor is a transition from being a casual buyer to a serious collector. It is the realization that a fine cigar is a living thing, an agricultural product that requires a bit of stewardship to reach its full potential. When you finally sit down at the end of a long week, you shouldn't have to worry about whether your cigar is going to tunnel or crack. Whether you go for the high-tech sanctuary of the NEEDONE Pro, the robust capacity of the Epress, or the budget-friendly reliability of the KingChii, you are ensuring that your weekend ritual remains sacred. After all, the only thing better than a great cigar is the peace of mind knowing that every stick in your collection is currently at its absolute peak, waiting for the right moment to be lit.
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Four of the Best USB Gaming and Streaming Microphones on Amazon
We have all been on the receiving end of it: that one teammate whose voice sounds like they are broadcasting from inside a wind tunnel, or worse, through a mouthful of gravel. In the high-stakes world of online gaming and livestreaming, your voice is your primary tool for diplomacy, strategy, and the occasional well-timed quip. If you are still relying on a flimsy headset mic while trying to build a community on Twitch or YouTube Live, you are essentially whispering through a tin can while the world has moved on to high-fidelity audio.
The modern USB microphone has undergone a quiet revolution. We have moved past the era of bulky, intimidating studio gear that required a degree in sound engineering just to plug in. The 2026 crop of microphones focuses on what I like to call "intelligent simplicity." They are designed to sit on your desk, look sharp, and isolate your voice from the frantic clicking of your mechanical keyboard, all while giving you the "on-air" presence of a professional broadcaster.
Here are the four USB microphones that offer the most compelling C/P (Cost-to-Performance) ratio this year, curated for both competitive gamers and aspiring live creators.
Our Best Picks
1) HyperX QuadCast 2 SThe Flagship Showstopper
Why pick this: If the original QuadCast was a staple, the "2 S" is the full-blown evolution for the visual era of streaming. It takes the fan-favorite tap-to-mute sensor and cranks the technical specs to a point that borders on overkill for a USB mic. With 32-bit/192kHz recording, you are getting studio-grade depth that captures every nuance of your commentary. But let’s be honest: the over 100 customizable aRGB LEDs are the real stars here. It is the most visually striking mic on the market, turning your desk into a light show that actually sounds professional.
- Key highlights: 32-bit/192kHz high-resolution audio; over 100 individually addressable RGB LEDs; multifunction knob for gain and monitor mix.
- Best for: High-end streamers and creators who want their hardware to be as much a part of the show as their gameplay.
2) Razer Seiren V3 ChromaThe Aesthetic Powerhouse
Why pick this: Razer knows its audience, and the Seiren V3 Chroma is a masterpiece of desk-side theater. But don't let the 360-degree RGB lighting fool you into thinking this is just a desk lamp. It features a Supercardioid pickup pattern, which is a fancy way of saying it is incredibly narrow-minded. It wants to hear you, and only you, effectively ignoring the hum of your PC fans or the person chatting in the next room. The multi-function tap-to-mute sensor even allows you to adjust the digital gain limiter with a few taps, ensuring you don't "clip" and ruin the audio for your viewers during a loud victory.
- Key highlights: Stream-reactive RGB lighting; multi-function tap-to-mute sensor; digital gain limiter and built-in shock absorber.
- Best for: Gamers and live-streamers who want a highly immersive, lighting-synced setup that sounds incredibly focused.
3) JBL Quantum Stream StudioThe Versatile Professional
Why pick this: JBL entered the microphone arena with the confidence of a legacy audio brand, and the Quantum Stream Studio is their heavyweight contender. It is built like a tank and sounds like a studio-grade condenser thanks to its triple 14mm condenser capsules. What makes it special is its flexibility; it features a built-in dynamic range compressor that ensures your voice stays at a consistent level, even if you go from a whisper to a shout. It is the Swiss Army knife of USB mics, ready for solo gaming, two-person interviews, or room-filling live sessions.
- Key highlights: 192kHz/24-bit studio-quality recording; four selectable pickup patterns (cardioid, omni, stereo, and bi-directional); real-time RGB VU meter for monitoring levels.
- Best for: The multi-hyphenate who games at night but needs a professional-grade setup for podcasts or multi-person live recordings by day.
4) Shure MV7+ Podcast MicrophoneThe Studio Standard
Why pick this: If you want to stop playing around and sound like you belong on a professional broadcast, this is the machine. The MV7+ is the USB-C evolution of a legendary studio lineage. Unlike the others, this is a dynamic microphone, meaning it is naturally better at rejecting background noise, making it perfect for non-treated rooms. It features a sleek LED touch panel for instant control and an "Auto Level Mode" which acts like a tiny sound engineer living inside the mic, constantly adjusting your volume so your broadcast never sounds distorted or too quiet.
- Key highlights: Hybrid USB-C and XLR output for future-proofing; Voice Isolation Technology; customizable LED panel and onboard DSP for real-time noise reduction.
- Best for: Serious podcasters and live-streamers who want the iconic "radio voice" and a mic that will last for years.
The Insight: How to Not Sound Like You're in a Cave
- The Proximity Effect: Most USB mics are designed to be used about 4 to 8 inches from your mouth. If you leave it two feet away next to your monitor, it will pick up the room bloom, that echoey, hollow sound that reminds everyone you’re in a spare bedroom.
- Mind the Plosives: When you say words with a "P" or a "B," you blast a gust of air into the mic. If your mic doesn't have a built-in pop filter, consider a cheap foam cover. Your listeners' ears will thank you.
- Gain is Not Volume: Think of gain as the sensitivity of the mic. If your friends or chat say you’re too quiet, don't just scream; turn up the gain. But be careful; too much gain will start picking up the air conditioner in the hallway.
- The Connectivity Choice: While XLR is the professional standard for studio environments, modern USB-C connections have closed the gap so significantly that for most creators, the convenience of a single cable far outweighs the complexity of an external mixer.
Final Words
Choosing a high-quality microphone is a rare act of digital altruism. You don't actually hear the benefit of your purchase; everyone else does. But when your voice comes through with the clarity and warmth of a professional host, it changes the dynamic of your community. Whether you go for the futuristic "2 S" power of the HyperX, the glowing showmanship of the Razer, the versatile reliability of the JBL, or the professional pedigree of the Shure, you are doing more than just buying a peripheral. You are ensuring that when you speak, you are actually heard. And in the middle of a chaotic live broadcast, that makes all the difference.
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ASUS Launches Three New Desktop PCs at Best Buy, Led by the First Snapdragon-Powered All-in-One
Two new all-in-one PCs arrive at Best Buy, including the world's first Snapdragon-powered AiO, delivering big screens, quiet performance, and plug-and-play simplicity
ASUS today announced the availability of two new all-in-one desktop PCs at Best Buy: the ASUS V400 AiO and the ASUS V600 AiO. Designed for families, students, and anyone who wants a large, clutter-free screen without the complexity of a traditional PC setup, both models are now available at Best Buy.
ASUS VM441QA
Both feature on-device AI capabilities, vibrant FHD touchscreens with 100% sRGB color accuracy, and a keyboard and mouse included in the box. The V400 is a milestone: the first all-in-one computer powered by the Snapdragon® X platform, delivering a 24” display in an ultra-slim, whisper-quiet design. The V600 goes bigger with a 27” screen, a 93% screen-to-body ratio, and a profile that's 25% thinner than its predecessor. With more households sharing devices across remote work, school, and entertainment, an all-in-one offers the screen size and comfort of a desktop with none of the setup complexity.
ASUS V400 AiO — Ultra-Slim, Ultra-Quiet, and a Category First
The ASUS V400 AiO (VM441QA) is the first all-in-one desktop built on the Snapdragon® X platform. The same energy-efficient architecture that transformed laptop battery life now enables an AiO that runs cooler and quieter than anything in its class. Its slim profile blends into a living room, and its near-silent operation means you'll forget it's running.
The 24" FHD display delivers crisp, vibrant visuals for browsing, video calls, and streaming. A built-in 45 TOPS neural processing unit powers on-device AI features including camera and microphone enhancement for video calls, smart photo editing with AI relighting, and intelligent search across files and apps. All processing happens locally, with no cloud connection required. The system features 16 GB LPDDR5X memory and 512 GB PCIe® 4.0 SSD storage, Wi-Fi 6, and a privacy-shutter camera with Windows Hello facial recognition.
The V400 is built on an entirely new ASUS chassis with a slim stand, clean rear profile, and a minimalist white finish designed to complement any room.
ASUS V600 AiO — 27” Touchscreen, Minimalist Design
The ASUS V600 AiO (VM670) offers a larger canvas: a 27" FHD touchscreen with a NanoEdge slim-bezel design that achieves a 93% screen-to-body ratio. With 100% sRGB color accuracy, the display looks vivid from virtually any seat in the room, whether someone is working at the desk or a child is following along from the side.
Touch interaction makes the V600 especially well-suited for kids doing homework, parents on video calls, or anyone who prefers tapping a screen to navigating with a mouse. It feels natural for students who grew up on tablets and approachable for family members who didn't.
The V600 is powered by up to the AMD Ryzen™ AI 7 350 processor with AMD Radeon™ 860M integrated graphics, a 50 TOPS NPU, up to 32 GB DDR5 memory, and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. An HDMI-in port lets users connect a laptop to use the V600 as a secondary display, while HDMI-out supports an external monitor for extended desktop setups. The V600 is 25% thinner than its predecessor and ships in a clean white finish with a sturdy metal stand.
ASUS Also Expands Commercial Desktop Lineup with ExpertCenter P700
Alongside the new consumer AiOs, ASUS is bringing the ExpertCenter P700 Mini Tower (PM700MK) to Best Buy for small businesses and professionals looking to replace aging desktop PCs. The compact tower uses mobile-class AMD Ryzen™ AI processors in a desktop chassis, resulting in significantly lower power consumption and near-silent operation compared to traditional desktop builds.
The P700 supports up to the AMD Ryzen™ AI 7 350 processor and 16 GB DDR5 memory. Two PCIe® 4.0 expansion slots (x16 and x16) give users the option to add a discrete graphics card down the road. ASUS AI ExpertMeet enhances video conferencing with AI-powered noise cancellation, virtual backgrounds, and meeting assistance. Military-grade durability (MIL-STD 810H) and ASUS ExpertGuardian security features provide the reliability small businesses need without dedicated IT support.
