Apple have announced that on February 3rd, music fans will be able to get some of the best sounds around when the 2nd generation of HomePod is released.

While the look of the new HomePod will seem very familiar to those who know the first generation, there are actually a few big changes. The first is that the HomePod 2nd generation now sports a black colour, and is made with 100 per cent recycled mesh fabric, with a colour-matched woven power cable.

It isn’t just the updated outsides, because inside you will find a custom-engineered high-excursion woofer, powerful motor that drives the diaphragm a remarkable 20mm, built-in bass-EQ mic, and beamforming array of five tweeters around the base all work together to achieve a powerful acoustic experience. The S7 chip is combined with software and system-sensing technology to offer even more advanced computational audio that maximises the full potential of its acoustic system for a groundbreaking listening experience.

With room sensing technology, HomePod recognises sound reflections from nearby surfaces to determine if it is against a wall or freestanding, and then adapts sound in real time. Precise directional control of its beamforming array of five tweeters separates and beams direct and ambient audio, immersing listeners in crystal-clear vocals and rich instrumentation.

The new generation HomePod can also connect to other HomePod speakers, to deliver a true stereo sound. Using multiroom audio with AirPlay, users can simply say “Hey Siri,” or touch and hold the top of HomePod to play the same song on multiple HomePod speakers, play different songs on different HomePod speakers, or even use them as an intercom to broadcast messages to other rooms.

Users can also create a stereo pair with two HomePod speakers in the same space. In addition to separating the left and right channels, a stereo pair plays each channel in perfect harmony, creating a wider, more immersive soundstage than traditional stereo speakers for a truly standout listening experience.

Of course, when can you get one for yourself? Well you can order one today, but they won’t be on sale until February 3rd, most online orders will arrive day of release though. As far as cost goes, the speaker in either Black or White is $479 and can be ordered direct from Apple.