New high-tech earbuds don't play music, but instead let wearers customize the world of sound around them, said Nathan McAlone in Business Insider. "Here" earbuds by New York–based Doppler Labs "are an audio geek's dream." Concertgoers can alter and add effects to live music, like turning up the bass or adding reverb for instant remixes. Doppler Labs has raised $17 million in venture capital, with investors including film composer Hans Zimmer and electronic dance music DJ Tiesto. Early on, the company touted the earbuds' ability to mute specific sounds, like a crying baby on an airplane. But as it prepares the earbuds to launch to the general public early next year, it's focusing on the ability to fine-tune live music, which is what many of its backers "were most excited about." Look for sponsored concerts that will showcase the technology.
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