Sony Electronics has announced the introduction of the SRS-WS1 Immersive Wearable Speaker which is coming to the US market in December. The speaker is designed to be placed on the shoulders, which allows a user to be “surrounded” by sound and vibrations from films and entertainment as if being “actually there”, according to the company. The speaker has already been popular overseas and hence the decision to market it stateside.
“Sony continues to put forth innovative audio products that provide additional options for consumers looking to enhance their home entertainment experience while matching their lifestyle needs,” says Michiko Araki Kelley, vice president, New Business and Corporate Marketing Group, Sony Electronics North America. “For the consumer that wants to take their movie watching or gaming experience to the next level or for that individual who would like to hear their television content more clearly, the SRS-WS1 Immersive Wearable Speaker provides a unique personal sound experience.”
The design includes speaker slots which, when combined with digital sound processing, create a sound field that promises to surround the user. Additionally, there are ducts on the lower part of the speaker to reduce excess resonance and maintain clarity of the audio. The speaker has 30mm-diamater full-range speakers on both sides and a small vibration board providing high-register playback. Sony also claims that the vibrations in the air created by the speaker give a more “realistic feedback” and their intensity can be controlled via three different adjustments. The WS1 also uses 2.4Ghz RF wireless tech for low latency response.
In order not to disturb those nearby in the same room, the speaker can also maintain intensity and quality at low levels, and one of the key features presented here is its ability not to isolate the user from his/her immediate surroundings while also supporting the comfort of not requiring ear-based headphones for late night binge-watching.
The WS1 comes with a wireless transmitter which can be connected to a TV via optical or RCA, and two speakers can be connected to one transmitter. You can also connect to audio ports of mobile devices and consoles, and there is an included charging stand for three hours to get a seven-hour continuous usage time.
The speaker will be available in the U.S. from December with a suggested retail price of $299.99. Sony will offer an introductory price of $249.99 on orders from November 18, 2019 to December 1, 2019. It can be pre-ordered directly from here. You can also get more info on the product here.
Martin, a seasoned journalist and AV expert, has written for several notable print magazines. He’s served in key roles at Lucasfilm’s THX Division, NEC’s digital cinema division, and has even consulted for DreamWorks. Despite his illustrious career, Martin remains rooted in his passion for cinema and acting, with notable appearances in several Spielberg films, Doctor Who, and Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. He currently resides in San Francisco.
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