Wireless Audio Without Headphones
The Sony SRS-WS1 Immersive Wearable Speaker is an odd looking listening device that rests on your shoulders. It delivers sound and vibrations to experience films, concerts and games as if you were actually there. Unlike headphones that cover your ears, the WS1 speaker lets you experience high-quality personalized sounds while still being able to communicate with family and friends. Sony also claims WS1 is more comfortable than headphones too.
“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,” says Michiko Araki Kelley, vice president, New Business and Corporate Marketing Group, Sony Electronics North America.
Immersive Sound
The sound from the speakers surrounds the ears, providing a real-life experience that carries the user away into the world of films and games. Sony’s unique design features speaker slots which, when combined with digital sound processing, create a sound field that surrounds the user. The ducts on the lower part of the speaker reduce excess resonance to keep sound quality clear. Equipped with specially developed 30mm-diameter, full-range speakers on both sides, the small vibration board provides excellent high-register playback and can be placed on the shoulders for a compact yet powerful listening experience.
Sensory Feedback
The speaker creates vibrations in the air that deliver a powerful sensory experience; every explosion, every jump, every shot has a more realistic feedback. The vibration intensity can also be adjusted to three different levels: High, Medium and Low. In order to ensure high-quality transmission of the audio signals, the WS1 speaker leverages 2.4Ghz RF wireless technology for low latency and a more responsive listening experience.
Low Volume Use
In situations or locations where a user needs to be mindful of neighbors, roommates or family members, the speaker keeps its intensity and provides high-quality sound even at low volumes. As the sound is centered around the wearer, rather than projected from a distance, the user is free to move around without any degradation in sound clarity and volume.
7 Hour Battery
The WS1 speaker comes with a wireless transmitter that can be easily connected to a television using an optical cable or audio cable. Up to two WS1 speakers can be connected to a single transmitter, enabling family or friends to share the listening experience1. Users can also connect to the audio ports of mobile devices, such as smartphones or handheld gaming consoles, to enjoy videos and music using the supplied cable. To charge the device, users simply place the product on the charging stand. One charge takes approximately three hours2 and provides a maximum continuous usage time3 of up to seven hours4.
Price and Availability
The Sony SRS-WS1 speaker will be available in the U.S. starting in December 2019 with a suggested retail price of $299.99. Sony Electronics will offer a special introductory price of $249.99 on all orders of the WS1 from November 18, 2019 to December 1, 2019. It can be pre-ordered directly at https://direct.sony.com/ws1-immersive-wearable-speaker/
1 To use two devices, a second device must be purchased. The speaker is not for sale as a standalone item.
2 Charging can also be carried out via the speaker’s input port. Connect the speaker and AC adapter using the Micro-USB cable, then plug the AC adapter into a power socket.
3 The speaker cannot be used while it is charging.
4 According to JEITA (Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association) standard. Differs depending on usage.
