Sennheiser has introduced a new approach to enjoying television sound without the bulk of a soundbar. The Sennheiser RS 275 TV Headphones bundle pairs a pair of headphones with a dedicated transmitter that uses the emerging Auracast Bluetooth protocol to deliver ultra-low-latency audio. The combination promises a more immersive, private, or even communal listening experience.
At a Glance
- Sennheiser RS 275 TV Headphones bundle delivers wireless TV audio with up to 50 meters reach.
- The bundle includes headphones with 50-hour battery life and a BTA1 transmitter that supports optical, HDMI ARC, and USB-C inputs.
- Preorders begin Feb 3, with shipping starting Feb 17; the bundle retails for $299.95, and the transmitter alone is $129.95.
What Is Auracast?
Auracast is a Bluetooth technology that functions like a radio broadcast, allowing multiple devices to receive the same audio stream simultaneously. It is designed to keep latency extremely low, so the audio stays in sync with the video. The protocol also lets users set a password on the stream, preventing unwanted listeners from joining.
Key features of Auracast:
- Ultra-low latency for sync-perfect audio.
- Simultaneous multi-device streaming for parties or group viewing.
- Password protection to keep the broadcast private.
- Up to 50-meter coverage when used with compatible transmitters.
Bundle Components
The RS 275 TV Headphones bundle contains two distinct pieces of hardware:
1. HDR 275 TV Headphones
- Designed for TV listening with a snug fit and noise-suppressing earcups.
- 50-hour battery life, replaceable batteries, and replaceable earcups.
- Built-in noise suppression reduces static and hiss from older broadcasts.
- Pairing is automatic when the headphones are powered on.
2. BTA1 Digital Transmitter
- Acts as a hub for audio sources, accepting optical, 3.5 mm, HDMI ARC, USB-C, and USB-A-to-USB-C inputs.
- Physical buttons on the top let users switch between inputs; the companion app can also perform this function.
- Powered through a USB-A connection.
- Includes a 3.5 mm cable, an optical-to-3.5 mm cable, a USB-C cable, and a USB-A-to-USB-C cable.
- When connected to a TV or other device, the BTA1 broadcasts audio via Auracast.
How It Works
- Connect the BTA1 to your TV or audio source using one of the included cables.
- Power the transmitter through the USB-A port.
- The BTA1 opens the TV’s audio stream and broadcasts it via Auracast, covering up to 50 meters.
- Any Auracast-compatible device-such as the RS 275 headphones-can join the stream. The headphones pair automatically, but you can also set a password to keep the broadcast private.
- Multiple devices can stream the same audio at the same time, enabling a headphone party or shared listening experience.
## Use Cases
- Private TV listening: Enjoy your favorite shows without disturbing others in the house.
- Communal audio: Invite friends or family to listen together from separate headphones.
- No soundbar solution: If you lack space for a soundbar, the transmitter and headphones provide a clean alternative.
- Multi-room listening: With Auracast’s broadcast capability, you can spread audio across different rooms without extra wiring.
Pricing & Availability
The bundle is available for preorder on Feb 3 and will ship on Feb 17. The retail price for the complete bundle is $299.95. If you only need the transmitter, it can be purchased separately for $129.95.
| Item | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| RS 275 TV Headphones bundle | $299.95 | Preorder Feb 3, shipping Feb 17 |
| BTA1 TV Transmitter | $129.95 | Preorder Feb 3, shipping Feb 17 |
Key Takeaways
- Auracast offers a low-latency, multi-device audio broadcast that can replace traditional wired headphones for TV.
- The RS 275 bundle includes a pair of headphones with long battery life and a versatile transmitter that supports a wide range of inputs.
- Preorders start Feb 3 and shipping begins Feb 17; the bundle retails for $299.95.
- The transmitter can be bought separately for $129.95 if you already have a compatible set of headphones.
- Users can protect their broadcast with a password and enjoy up to 50 meters of wireless coverage.
By combining Auracast technology with a thoughtfully designed headset and transmitter, Sennheiser offers a flexible, high-quality solution for modern home audio.
