Everyone can hear your TV in their headphones using this transmitter

As we’ve lamented before, one of Bluetooth’s best modern features isn’t being embraced by the tech world, but that’s changing. Sennheiser has announced a new pair of wireless headphones and a transmitter designed for private TV watching, both of which use a Bluetooth feature called Auracast. Like listening to a radio station broadcast from a tower, multiple headphones, earbuds, hearing aids, and even speakers can pick up sound from the Sennheiser BTA1 digital transmitter without the hassle and limitations of pairing, if they are Auracast compatible.

Sennheiser’s $299.95 RS 275 TV Headphones Bundle will be available for pre-order starting February 3 this year and is expected to ship shortly thereafter on February 17. It includes the company’s new HDR 275 TV headset, which features breathable ear cushions and a 50-hour rechargeable battery, both of which are user-replaceable.

The headphones also offer playback and volume control buttons on their earcups and connect to Sennheiser’s Smart Control Plus app to make EQ adjustments. There is a noise-cancelling feature, but it’s designed to reduce the hiss and static of classic TV shows and movies, instead of silencing someone talking nearby.

Sennheiser’s BTA1 TV transmitter is also part of the bundle, but will be available on its own for $129.95. The transmitter can connect and switch between multiple audio sources such as TVs and consoles via HDMI and even older hardware using a 3.5mm analog audio cable. There are several sound modes, including virtual surround sound and speech enhancement, but availability depends on the source you’re connected to.

Using a Bluetooth connection on your phone, you can configure transmitter settings, such as video delay compensation to ensure audio is in sync with the action on screen, or password protect the Auracast broadcast so neighbors can’t tune in. You’ll just need to power it via a USB-A port, either from a nearby TV or an adapter connected to an outlet.

Support for Bluetooth Auracast is not yet widespread, but it is slowly growing. Headphones and earbuds from companies like JBL, Sony, and EarFun support it, as do some TV models from Samsung and LG. If your TV doesn’t, Sennheiser’s BTA1 TV transmitter could be a simple way to bring the benefits of Auracast to your home theater.