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ZDNET’s key takeaways
- Sennheiser debuts the RS 275 TV Headphones bundle.
- The bundle includes the HDR 275 headphones and the BTA1 Auracast transmitter.
- Auracast enables lower latency and removes brand lock-in for private TV viewing at home.
Sennheiser expands its TV headphones catalog with the HDR 275 over-ear headphones, designed for private TV-watching sessions. The HDR 275 aren’t the company’s first headphones made for watching TV, but they are the first to bundle with a transmitter fitted with a wireless superpower: Bluetooth Auracast.
The Sennheiser RS 275 TV Headphones bundle includes the HDR 275 headphones, a BTA1 digital transmitter, a 3.5mm audio cable, an Optical-to-3.5 mm cable, one USB-C-to-USB-C cable, a USB-A-to-USB-C cable, and a headphones stand. Although many TVs have standard Bluetooth connectivity for pairing with your favorite headphones, the BTA1’s Auracast and LC3 codec compatibility opens new possibilities.
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The BTA1 exclusively uses Auracast for connectivity and behaves as a transmitter when plugged into a TV’s Optical or HDMI ARC port. Consumers can plug the BTA1 transmitter into laptops, game consoles, stereo systems, and more via a 3.5mm connection. The BTA1 requires power through a USB-A connection, so it’s not wireless.
Because the BTA1 supports Auracast, it can transmit a signal to an unlimited number of Auracast-enabled headphones, earbuds, hearing aids, and speakers. According to Sennheiser, the BTA1 also supports the LC3 Bluetooth codec, which promises ultra-low latency for synchronized audio and picture, compared to the higher latency associated with the SBC codec found in most TVs.
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Sennheiser says this TV bundle is an answer to those with ultra-thin TVs who aren’t satisfied with the built-in speakers, but need a solution for late-night or private listening. Auracast compatibility allows consumers to transmit audio to Auracast-enabled receivers when appropriate and to transition to private listening with the HDR 275 when needed.
Additionally, Auracast support eliminates the barriers associated with brand lock-in. Brands like Bose and Sonos offer excellent solutions for private listening, but consumers must have compatible headphones and soundbars.
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According to Sennheiser, the HDR 275 headphones are as light as an everyday remote control and feature breathable cushions for binge-watching sessions. They also offer 50 hours of playtime and are compatible with the Sennheiser Smart Control Plus app for audio personalization features. Although these aren’t everyday headphones, they are equipped with Bluetooth Auracast and Classic for connecting to your other devices.
The Sennheiser RS 275 TV Headphones bundle will be available for preorder on Feb. 3 for $300. Consumers can also purchase the BTA1 transmitter separately for $130.
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