AllYouCanTech

Samsung’s newest budget offerings, the Galaxy A17 5G and Galaxy Tab A11 Plus, are creating a buzz by featuring specifications usually associated with high-end devices. The Galaxy A17 5G, following in the footsteps of 2025’s best-selling Android smartphone, presents a single variant with 4GB RAM and 128GB storage, straying from the multiple configurations of its predecessor. Nonetheless, Samsung assures users of six years of Android updates and security patches, a considerable benefit for those looking for longevity.

The A17 5G flaunts a 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED screen with a 90Hz refresh rate, driven by the Exynos 1330 chipset and a 5,000mAh battery that supports 25W fast charging. It is equipped with a 50MP primary camera featuring Optical Image Stabilization for improved low-light shots, along with a 5MP ultrawide lens and a 2MP macro camera.

On the other hand, the Galaxy Tab A11 Plus features an 11-inch LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate, quad speakers enhanced by Dolby Atmos, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It is available in 6GB/128GB and 8GB/256GB configurations, powered by a MediaTek MT8775 processor, coupled with a 7,040mAh battery and the option for 5G connectivity.

Both gadgets come equipped with sophisticated AI functionalities such as Circle to Search and Google’s Gemini assistant, enabling users to execute tasks like product identification or email drafting without the necessity for a top-tier device. The Galaxy A17 5G is priced at $200 and will be available in black, blue, and gray starting January 7, while the Galaxy Tab A11 Plus begins at $250, offered in gray and silver from January 8.

This $1,999 universal IEM is in a league of its own.

It’s not often that I get to try out a $1,999 IEM, and Thieaudio has undoubtedly succeeded with the Valhalla. I’d argue that it targets enthusiasts, though there are many other models that provide excellent sound without the hefty price tag of the Valhalla. If you’re simply looking for well-made IEMs that sound great and are comfortable, there are plenty of fantastic options available for under $100.

But what if you desire the very best? The finest design, the highest sound quality, and the top drivers on the market today. This is where Thieaudio sets itself apart; the brand has been thriving over the past two years, and IEMs like the Monarch MKIII have gained popularity due to their sound tuning and design.

And now we have the Valhalla. Priced at $1,999 on Linsoul Audio, these IEMs are Thieaudio’s priciest by a significant margin, and they are truly remarkable. Each earbud features 19 balanced armature drivers, which is almost excessive. It’s essential to discuss the drivers, as each earbud contains four Sonion 38D1XJ007 subwoofer drivers for precise bass, ten Sonion E50DT0005 low-midrange and mid-range drivers, four Knowles RDE 33729 treble drivers, and a Knowles WBFK 30095 tweeter that offers a level of treble extension that most IEMs cannot match.

As expected from a product of this caliber, there are numerous innovations. Noteworthy is the Precision Bass System, Thieaudio’s answer to providing a “subwoofer-like” experience in an IEM. It features a distinctive resonance chamber optimized to create vibrant sub-bass; essentially, the Valhalla boasts one of the finest bass extensions of any flagship IEM.

Additionally, it employs custom tubing to ensure “smooth transitions” throughout the entire frequency spectrum, and it’s evident that Thieaudio has meticulously attended to every detail with the Valhalla. This becomes immediately apparent once you start using the IEMs; their design is striking, and it’s clear these are premium IEMs.

The Valhalla’s shell is constructed from titanium, making it durable; I’ve been using these IEMs for nearly four months now, and they remain in pristine condition. I have every confidence in their durability, and while the shells are somewhat larger — presumably to fit all the drivers — they do not apply excessive pressure and are relatively lightweight. Surprisingly, these IEMs are quite comfortable to wear.

What truly sets these IEMs apart is the faceplate design; Thieaudio offers a total of 15 designs, allowing you to customize the shell to your taste. I received the standard model, and I quite like its aesthetic; it features a bright etched pattern that catches the eye without appearing gaudy.

Thieaudio’s logo is accentuated at the base, and the overall design effectively underscores the premium quality of the IEMs. I also appreciate the matte finish on the shells, which resist smudges much better. You receive the typical mix of silicone and foam ear tips, though I would have preferred a broader selection in this area. While other brands include additional pairs in the package, Thieaudio provides the same set that comes with the Monarch MKIII.

Fortunately, the included tips offer good isolation and a snug fit. The sound nozzle is quite large and angled, and due to the design of the IEMs, the Valhalla extends out from your ears. However, once you achieve a proper fit, you won’t even feel that you’re wearing the IEMs, and the lightweight construction makes a significant difference.

Thieaudio has excelled with the included EliteNoir cable; this silver-plated cable features a braided design, is pretty flexible, and comes with a modular system that includes 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm plugs. It connects to the Valhalla using the standard 2-pin connector. To complete the package, you also receive a hard shell case with a suede lining to securely hold the Valhalla, the cable, and all the extras.

Truthfully, the sound quality is outstanding — that’s a given when you consider the extensive engineering behind the Valhalla and the number of drivers involved. The IEMs deliver a deliciously rich and detailed low-end, with impressive sub-bass vibrancy that enhances the listening experience. Overall, the bass is well-controlled while still providing a solid