Makes any headphones wireless for cheap.
As much as we like the idea of wireless headphones (who hasn’t dreamed of sneaking out in their jimjams for a midnight gaming or movie session, only to be foiled by the danger of waking the other mammals around?), we have to admit they’re a bit of an indulgence. With the price of decent wireless sets starting at around $200 and quickly heading skywards, some big brands can command $700 or more for their premium kit. And while it might not be the prettiest bit of audio gear around, for those on a budget the AM8112 presents a tempting compromise -- a low-priced wireless receiver and transmitter set that’ll work with your existing headphones.
In use, the AM8112 is exceptionally simple: the transmitter plugs into the playback device (TV/stereo/PC) and the receiver at the headphones (via a 3.5mm jack and socket, respectively), then all you need to do is switch them on and start playing. They’re both powered by internal Lithium Ion batteries, which recharge via standard mini-B USB plugs and last around 4 hours before you’ll need to charge them up again.
Acoustically, the kit is actually pretty passable -- there’s no signs of digital compression noise (like with many Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless headphones), but we did hear a small amount of background hiss when the receiver’s volume was turned up. We found it was much better to crank up the volume on the playback device itself, giving you more signal with less noise.
We found the transmitter a bit unwieldy due to its L-shaped design. It only just fit in the back of our Samsung test TV and then only in a specific orientation; ideally, you’ll want your playback device to have a good bit of space around its audio-out socket. That aside, though, these basically deliver exactly what’s promised: acceptable wireless audio transmission at a nice price.
Pros : Cheaper than a pair of wireless headphones, no digital compression noise.
Cons : Transmitter shape can be unwieldy, some background hiss at high volumes.
Verdict : 8/10. Highly Recommended!
Available from Audiomate, retailing for $60
