Auracast is among the most intriguing new audio technologies that you've probably never heard of. Using a new, more efficient type of Bluetooth, it promises lag-free, high-quality sound transmission from up to 100 meters for a limitless number of devices. It has a ton of potential: Someday, we may tap into Auracast broadcasts on our phones in places like airports and gyms to get a private listening session from public TVs, like a cross between Wi-Fi and FM radio. For now, compatible devices are sadly scarce.
That's what makes Sennheiser’s new BTA1 TV transmitter so special. This little block is loaded with inputs, designed as a sort of bridge between Auracast and virtually any TV. Where most traditional TV headphone systems use older standards like radio frequencies or a 2.4-GHz signal to send wireless audio to dedicated headsets, the BTA1 opens things up to any Auracast headphones.
The other problem is, most of the best headphones don’t yet support Auracast. So, Sennheiser has bundled its new transmitter with a midrange pair of cans, the HDR 275. After a week of testing, I came away mostly impressed by the transmitter, moderately underwhelmed by the headphones. Bundled or not, this system shows real promise as a versatile TV headphones setup and a tantalizing introduction to the world of Auracast.
Loaded Transmitter
Photograph: Ryan Waniata
What struck me first about the BTA1, apart from its relatively small size and understated design, is its hearty collection of inputs for any generation of TVs. I can’t tell you how many new soundbars I’ve seen lately that cut options like optical or 3.5-mm (a headphone jack). The BTA1 has it all: HDMI ARC, 3.5-mm/optical input (with included adapter cable), and a USB port that doubles as both a power and audio input with newer TVs. There’s even a USB-C side port for charging your headphones—very slick.