iFi UP Play Max Bluetooth Transmitter
IFI UP PLAY MAX BLUETOOTH TRANSMITTER ADDS APTX LOSSLESS, AURACAST AND LOW-LATENCY AUDIO
iFi audio has announced the iFi UP Play Max, a compact Bluetooth transmitter designed to add a wider range of Bluetooth codecs and features to smartphones and other source devices.
The iFi UP Play Max Bluetooth transmitter supports aptX Lossless, Auracast, dual headphone connections and a dedicated low-latency mode for gaming and TV audio.
iFi UP PLAY MAX AND BLUETOOTH CODECS
The UP Play Max supports a range of Bluetooth codecs, including aptX Lossless, which the press release describes as providing CD-quality lossless Bluetooth audio. It is intended to improve Bluetooth compatibility across both iOS and Android devices, with particular emphasis on devices where the available Bluetooth codecs are more limited.
For Apple devices, iFi says the UP Play Max’s aptX Lossless compatibility can provide access to lossless Bluetooth transmission from services including Apple Music, Spotify Lossless and Qobuz. For Android users, it provides access to a range of high-resolution codecs rather than relying on the particular codec support of an individual smartphone manufacturer.
K2 TECHNOLOGY
The UP Play Max also incorporates K2 Technology, which iFi says is designed to restore harmonic content. The feature can be accessed and activated through the iFi Nexis app.
iFi UP PLAY MAX AURACAST
Auracast compatibility allows the UP Play Max to broadcast Bluetooth audio to compatible headphones, with iFi stating that an unlimited number of compatible listeners can join the broadcast. Auracast functionality will be added through a firmware update shortly after launch.
For headphones without Auracast support, the UP Play Max can instead connect simultaneously to two pairs of headphones or earbuds using the SBC codec.
iFi UP PLAY MAX FOR GAMING AND CALLS
A low-latency mode is available through the aptX Adaptive codec and can be activated using the iFi Nexis app. This is intended for applications including gaming, television and films where reducing the delay between picture and sound is important.
The UP Play Max also has a built-in microphone with Qualcomm noise and echo suppression technology for phone calls and in-game chat.
iFi NEXIS APP
The UP Play Max is controlled and updated using iFi’s Nexis mobile application. The app provides access to paired devices and active codecs, as well as controls for K2 Technology, Auracast and low-latency mode. It also supports over-the-air firmware updates and is available through the App Store and Play Store.
iFi UP PLAY MAX PRICE AND AVAILABILITY
The iFi UP Play Max is available from iFi audio and authorised dealers priced at £89 / €99 / $89 USD / $149 CAD.
HiFi PiG says: The iFi UP Play Max offers a compact way to add aptX Lossless, Auracast, dual headphone connectivity and low-latency Bluetooth to compatible devices, making it a versatile option for portable listening, gaming and shared audio.
