STACK #261 July 2026

FEATURE TECH

AUDIO JARGON BUSTER

What is Bluetooth multipoint and do I need it?

A secure and comfortable fit not only feels better but can also improve sound quality and overall listening enjoyment. What is spatial or 360 audio and will it work with my music? Spatial audio and 360 audio are designed to create a more immersive listening experience by making sound feel like it's coming from around you rather than directly from your ears.

Shopping for new audio gear? Here are some of the more common terms you'll likely encounter, and what they actually mean. Beamforming microphones – Tech that can focus on your voice and reduce background noise during calls. Dolby Atmos – An immersive audio format that makes sound feel like it's coming from all around you. Driver – The component inside a headphone, earbud, or speaker that produces sound. eARC – A TV connection that allows high-quality audio to be sent to a soundbar using a single HDMI cable. EQ (Equaliser) – Lets you adjust sound settings, such as boosting bass or enhancing vocals. Hi-Res Audio – Audio files that contain more detail than standard digital audio. Lossless Audio – Audio that retains the original recording detail without any compression. Smart Speaker – A speaker with a built-in voice assistant and smart home control. Soundbar – A compact speaker designed to improve your TV's sound. TWS (True Wireless Stereo) – Wireless earbuds with no cable connecting the left and right buds.

Bluetooth multipoint allows headphones or earbuds to stay connected to two devices at the same time. For example, you could be listening to music on your laptop and automatically switch to an incoming call on your phone without having to reconnect anything. It's a highly convenient feature for people who regularly move between work and personal devices throughout the day. Simply check the product’s specs to see if it supports this function. Are earbuds, headphones, and portable speakers durable enough for exercise and outdoor use? If you intend to wear headphones or earbuds when exercising, or use a Bluetooth speaker for an outdoor party, the product’s IP rating can help you understand what level of durability is provided. The first number indicates protection against dust particles, while the second measures resistance to water. The higher the number, the greater the level of protection. Just remember that water resistant doesn't necessarily mean fully waterproof.

The effect can be particularly impressive for movies, live concerts, and supported music tracks. Many popular streaming services now offer compatible content, although the experience can vary depending on the service, device, and headphones you're using. Are headphones or earbuds good for phone calls and video meetings? Yes. Many wireless earbuds and headphones now include built-in microphones for calls and video conferencing. Newer and premium models can use multiple microphones and noise reduction tech to help make your voice sound clearer during calls, whether you're chatting with friends or joining a work meeting on Teams or Zoom.

Are headphones or earbuds comfortable enough for all day wear? Comfort is one of the key considerations when choosing ear gear. Many earbuds include multiple ear tip sizes to help you find the perfect fit, while over-ear headphones use comfy padded ear cushions for long listening sessions. Open-ear headphone designs are becoming increasingly popular too, particularly for exercise and outdoor use.

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