Number of results 237 for AU

08/03/2010 - Denon's present (& future) receivers are Windows 7 Compatible
This probably isn't going to get you on or off of the Denon bandwagon by itself, but the company has just announced several of its networked receivers are officially compatible with Windows 7. We fell in love with the ease of Play To during our initial review, and the AVR-4310CI, AVR-3310 CI, AVR-990, AVR-4810CI (pictured above) of the 2009 line have run through the necessary testing to add this sticker to the collection of logos featured prominently on the front. If iPod docks are more your style, the ASD-51W and ASD-51N are promised to fit in just as seamlessly, with an additional indication that all of the company's (unnamed) upcoming 2010 models will earn the same designation.

Continue reading Denon's present (& future) receivers are Windows 7 Compatible

Denon's present (& future) receivers are Windows 7 Compatible originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 13:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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04/03/2010 - Winner of the Biz-News.com "Product of the Year Award 2009” Announced
Our polls for the Biz-News.com “Product of the Year Award 2009” closed on the 15th of February. The winner is a result of the amount of votes they were awarded by readers, all readers where invited to vote for their favourite products or service in the Smartphone, HDTV, Storage and VoIP categories.

05/02/2010 - Panasonic cops to rising black levels in its plasma HDTVs, but questions still remain
Over the last several months complaints that Panasonic's plasma HDTVs experience sudden adverse changes in their black levels after a certain number of viewing hours have been piling up in an AVSForum thread, and now that behavior has been confirmed, though not very well explained, in a response the company sent to CNET today:
In order to achieve the optimal picture performance throughout the life of the set, Panasonic Viera plasma HDTVs incorporate an automatic control which adjusts an internal driving voltage at predetermined intervals of operational hours. As a result of this automatic voltage adjustment, background brightness will increase from its initial value ... The newest Viera plasma HDTVs incorporate an improved automatic control which applies the voltage adjustments in smaller increments. This results in a more gradual change in the Black Level over time.
Especially considering many buyers purchased their televisions specifically for those deep black levels, you can see why a TV suddenly going Sammy Sosa overnight would be upsetting. One of the reigning theories in the thread indicated by poster & calibrator D-Nice has been that this is by design, but a flaw in the settings caused the large jumps (around double the brightness, as measured by several owners light meters) instead of a much more subtle change. So what now for owners or potential buyers? Without more details about what is going on and whether or not anything can be done about it, like CNET's David Katzmeier, it's hard to see how we can continue to recommend these HDTVs for purchase without knowing what they will do months or years down the line. The ball is in Panasonic's court now, a speedy response could do a lot to assuage the concerns of current and potential owners.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Panasonic cops to rising black levels in its plasma HDTVs, but questions still remain originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 21:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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22/01/2010 - FED apparently not dead, baby, Field Emission Technologies sells out to AUO
Returning just in time to do battle with LPD for vaporware of 2010 award, Field Emission Display technology is still kicking. We'd heard that Field Emission Technologies was closing its doors, but here's the president of Field Emission Technologies Shohei Hasagawa (left) clasping hands with the CEO of display manufacturer AUO, Dr. L.J. Chen, and FET Japan prez Jun Yamazaki celebrating the sale the technology. Apparently AUO plans to develop the CRT-rivaling flat-screen displays for high end display applications. Can it pick up where Sony left off? We're doubtful, but the sale means at least a slim hope professionals could be looking into something even sweeter than plasma or LCD sometime soon.

FED apparently not dead, baby, Field Emission Technologies sells out to AUO originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 22 Jan 2010 14:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19/01/2010 - Yamaha's cinema-lovin' YSP-5100 and YSP-4100 soundbars ship this month with breathtaking price tags
Yamaha's YSP-5100 and YSP-4100 soundbars (or Digital Sound Projectors, as the sophisticates would say) emerged early last month over in Japan, but then CES happened. In a stellar effort to jog our memories, the company has just announced that both units will be on sale here in the States prior to January's end, and while each comes with a laundry list of features, the MSRPs are downright shocking. Both bars offer up 40 beam drivers, two woofers and a dedicated amplifier, while the 5100 adds a pair of tweeters. They're also equipped with HD Audio decoding (TrueHD DTS-HD Master Audio, etc.), 1080p-compatible HDMI sockets (4 in/ 1 out), internal upscaling, a UniVolume feature to maintain a consistent volume level between different sources and an integrated FM tuner. Sounds nice, but the internal yAired wireless technology must be the icing on the cake, as the $2,199.95 (5100) / $1,899.95 (4100) price tags clearly have some sort of premium baked in.

Yamaha's cinema-lovin' YSP-5100 and YSP-4100 soundbars ship this month with breathtaking price tags originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 11:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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16/01/2010 - Lexicon busted passing Oppo off as a $3500 Blu-ray player
Leixon and Oppo internals
If Lexicon is your favorite brand then here's a shocker, the company figured if it isn't broke, then don't fix it and grabbed an Oppo BDP-83 Blu-ray player and in cased it into a high end chasis and listed it for $3500 -- a $3000 case, wow? We know this type of thing goes on all the time in the world of electronics, but wow, this is just unbelievable. The folks at Audioholics didn't believe it either, so they stripped the two players down and did some bench testing to reveal that indeed both were identical -- other than the case that is. Now to be fair, we realize that companies like Lexicon probably sell this to distributors for $1000 and the rest is all retailer markup, and of course Lexicon insists it has made upgrades beyond that of the Oppo, but come on, this is just wrong.

Lexicon busted passing Oppo off as a $3500 Blu-ray player originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 16 Jan 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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15/01/2010 - 1983 review of Sony's first-ever CD player unearthed: hindsight's a beautiful thing
Here's a little bit of color for you. The gang at Retro Thing have brought our attention to a republished 1983 Stereophile review of the Sony CDP-101, the first-ever CD player. The results were that the audio quality was promising but not stellar, and the $1,000 (!) cost of entry for the device made it even less alluring. Knowing how history unfolded, we can't help but chuckle a bit at the worry that CDs would in the near-term become obsolete by another physical disc medium, but hey, we can't blame them for not being psychic. Just think, one day our own reviews will be discovered for the future to laugh about -- paying over $500 for a device that doesn't do multitouch on its native apps? What's up with that? Find yourself 15 to 30 minutes of quiet time and hit up the source link for a blast from the past.

1983 review of Sony's first-ever CD player unearthed: hindsight's a beautiful thing originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 15 Jan 2010 01:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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06/01/2010 - Olive and Thiel team up for a high end, high priced audio server
Call us crazy, but we think this is an idea that just might work. Olive, known for high-end music servers, and Thiel, who we've seen in this space purveying high-end speakers and IP-based audio solutions, have joined forces to rock your condo, trendy loft space, or dentist's office. Built around the Olive 4HD (with its 2TB storage, 24-bit / 192kHz sound, gigabit Ethernet, 802.11n WiFi, and an iPhone / iPod touch remote control app), the Olive+Thiel can rock up to four pairs of Thiel's SCS4D IP-based self-powered speakers with 6.5 Inch Coaxial/Coincident driver and 200W Class D Power Amp. In addition to the server functionality, this bad boy can rock you out via its analog and USB digital audio inputs -- trust us, Butterfly by Crazy Town has never sounded this sweet! (OK, maybe its never sounded that sweet to begin with.) Available this month for $7,900. PR after the break.

Continue reading Olive and Thiel team up for a high end, high priced audio server

Olive and Thiel team up for a high end, high priced audio server originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 05:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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23/12/2009 - Yamaha YHT-S400 sound system packs ultraslim soundbar, sub-infused receiver
We're always leery of "world's first" claims, but we've definitely never seen an AV receiver with a ginormous port on the front. The unorthodox device you're inevitably peering at above is one part of the two-piece YHT-S400, which looks to provide cinema-like sound in areas where space is hard to come by. The 31.5-inch long soundbar measures just 2-inches high and is designed to fit in front of most 32- to 50-inch HDTVs without blocking the screen, while the accompanying "first-of-its-kind subwoofer-integrated receiver" provides the power, the bass and the connectivity. A trio of HDMI inputs are included, and HD audio signals from Blu-ray Discs are accepted via linear PCM transmission. It's up for grabs now at $599.95, and if you're hoping to add iPod or Bluetooth support, Yamaha's YDS-11 and YBA-10 adapters are fully compatible.

Yamaha YHT-S400 sound system packs ultraslim soundbar, sub-infused receiver originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 02:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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23/12/2009 - Several bidders line up to buy Motorola's set-top box division
It hasn't been much of a secret that Motorola is looking to sell its set-top box business, and it looks like several potential suitors are already lining up to place bids on the division now that the company has put the word out in a slightly more formal manner. While everything is obviously still in the earliest stages, Reuters reports that a number of major private equity firms -- including Bain Capital, TPG Capital, and the Blackstone Group -- have informed Motorola of their interest in the business, with other companies including equipment maker Arris also said to be considering a bid. Details are otherwise a bit light, as you might expect, but at least some folks have valued the business as high as $4.5 billion -- although other "sources familiar with the matter" say the bidding will likely stay under $4 billion.

Several bidders line up to buy Motorola's set-top box division originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Dec 2009 22:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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05/12/2009 - Terminator: Salvation's McG hosts the first audio Blu-ray director's chat session tonight
It's been a little over a year since we first checked out a live director's chat session on Blu-ray with Gullermo del Toro and Hellboy II, and now Warner is prepared to take the next step by letting interested fans hear their questions answered rather than simply reading text for the duration of the movie. the first release so honored? Terminator: Salvation and its director McG. Everything's set to go off at 9 p.m. est, with only a copy of the movie, BD-Live connected player, registration on Warner's website and an appetite for yet another sequel in an action movie franchise that topped out two movies and almost as many decades ago. A chance to see if Blu-ray's interactive potential can ever pay off means we're in, interested parties can sign up at the read link below, if you can't make it check back later, we'll try and grab some audio.

Continue reading Terminator: Salvation's McG hosts the first audio Blu-ray director's chat session tonight

Terminator: Salvation's McG hosts the first audio Blu-ray director's chat session tonight originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 15:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19/11/2009 - Olive 4HD makes the audiophile's music server more audiophilic
Yeah, so we made that word up -- what of it? Olive's decidedly pricey Opus No. 4 is receiving an update today, and while you'll easily recognize the looks, this new slab will be called by its new name: 4HD. According to the company, this 2TB music server now features 24-bit sound and a 192kHz sample rate courtesy of the Burr-Brown PCM1792A DAC, which should provide right around 250 times the resolution of a typical CD. As expected, a gigabit Ethernet port and 802.11n WiFi module are both included in order to get your machine on the home network, and a free iPhone / iPod touch application is available to give you full control via your handheld. The pain? $1,999, or $200 more than the aforesaid Opus No. 4. But hey, at least a dozen of Chesky Records' best HD tracks are included gratis! Riveting, no?

Continue reading Olive 4HD makes the audiophile's music server more audiophilic

Olive 4HD makes the audiophile's music server more audiophilic originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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15/11/2009 - Poll: How important is surround sound to you?

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Just how far audiophiles will go to experience sensory nirvana -- and whether it's all in their mind or in their ears -- is a subject that can be discussed forever, but for now we'll try to break down just how much it means to you. We know the vast majority of the Engadget HD community is already surround sound equipped, but how far do you go to get the absolute top notch experience? Drop the details of your setup in the comments below, especially whether you think you've done enough or have even further to go in the audio quality arena.

Poll: How important is surround sound to you? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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15/11/2009 - Poll: How important is surround sound to you?
Just how far audiophiles will go to experience sensory nirvana -- and whether it's all in their mind or in their ears -- is a subject that can be discussed forever, but for now we'll try to break down just how much it means to you. We know the vast majority of the Engadget HD community is already surround sound equipped, but how far do you go to get the absolute top notch experience? Drop the details of your setup in the comments below, especially whether you think you've done enough or have even further to go in the audio quality arena.

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Poll: How important is surround sound to you? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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23/10/2009 - Rocketfish wireless whole home audio system cuts the cord on all your speakers

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Anyone stumbling into a Best Buy looking for some sort of wireless speaker solution has probably been ushered over to the Rocketfish section, but up until now, only a few devices have been available. Now, the Best Buy staple is introducing an all-encompassing system that aims to cut the (speaker) cable to all of your speakers. The wireless whole home audio system, which is obviously only available at the yellow-tagged retailer, is comprised of a Wireless Amplified Audio Receiver, a Wireless Sender / Receiver, a Wireless Outdoor Speaker and a Wireless HD Audio Starter Kit, which includes both a sender and receiver. The whole rig is designed to work with standard connections for speaker line and line level inputs, so most any speaker assortment should play nice. All told, the devices combined can send up to five sources to nine receivers throughout the home, but not surprisingly, there's no mention made of the presumably lofty price tag.

Rocketfish wireless whole home audio system cuts the cord on all your speakers originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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10/10/2009 - LG's 5.1 HB954SP Blu-ray HTIB system makes room for your iPod or iPhone

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If you've somehow managed to hold out from joining into the HTIB revolution, the time for caving is upon you. LG has just tapped Sir Mark Levinson to engineer the acoustics behind its latest bundle, the HB954SP. Packing a 5.1-channel sound system that includes 1,000 total watts of power, a quintet of oval drivers and a ported subwoofer, the system gets direction from a BD-Live-enabled Blu-ray player that's actually a fair bit more stylish than the tried-and-true black rectangle. You'll also find a pair of HDMI inputs, an iDock function for charging and controlling your iPod / iPhone right from the BD deck, 1080p upscaling of traditional DVDs, touch sensitive controls, a USB port for loading up external media and an optical audio input. There's nary a mention of price, but it should splash down this November for a hefty premium.

LG's 5.1 HB954SP Blu-ray HTIB system makes room for your iPod or iPhone originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 10 Oct 2009 08:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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01/10/2009 - Fox dreaming of a future where Blu-ray movies load faster, are judged by the content of their character(s)

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At least someone is (seemingly) listening to our Blu-ray gripes. /Film hit a Fox hosted press summit and heard exactly the things we've been waiting to hear: a future where "advanced" Blu-ray players can do what DVD players have done for years: automatically resume play where we left off on all players, dramatically reduced load times and a live demo of the IMDB Live Lookup feature available on the Wolverine release. The company has nabbed a researcher from Panasonic, Joe McCrossan, who is heading up the efforts to improve viewer's experience and tossing around long promised buzzwords like iPhone connectivity and Digital Copy along with the previously mentioned features under development -- if he succeeds on making them reality we'll rename an Engadget editor Joe in his honor, and it might not even be the one already named Joe.

[Thanks, chevelleman]

Fox dreaming of a future where Blu-ray movies load faster, are judged by the content of their character(s) originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 11:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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29/09/2009 - IMAX taps Audyssey MultEQ for room-correction

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IMAX Audyssey
Even dedicated theaters like those IMAX uses (well, at least some of them are dedicated) need a little help when it comes to achieving the best sound. Take a look across the consumer AV receiver landscape and you'll see that various flavors of Audyssey's MultEQ technology is pretty popular for measuring and correcting the artifacts that arise in real-world rooms. Small wonder then, that MultEQ (no doubt a pro variant) has been selected by IMAX to help iron out problems with in-theater sound. Who knows, maybe we were distracted by the armrest-gripping visuals, but we've never had a complaint about IMAX sound. Still, we'll take any improvements we can get once the technicians start running through IMAX theaters with mics and test tones in 2010.

IMAX taps Audyssey MultEQ for room-correction originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 07:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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23/09/2009 - 100 straight, October 4, don't cut: WRC schedule for HD Theater revealed

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We finally know exactly when Discovery HD Theater will deliver the rally racing action it promised now that the official schedule has been revealed. Our friends at Autoblog have plenty of pics to gawk over while we mark off the days, check after the break for the PR with dates and times, plus a preview trailer. We're not sold on how the new NA engines in WRC may sound in 5.1, but we'll always take more HD racing action, you hear that Bernie?

Continue reading 100 straight, October 4, don't cut: WRC schedule for HD Theater revealed

100 straight, October 4, don't cut: WRC schedule for HD Theater revealed originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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23/09/2009 - Disney releasing 14 classics on Blu-ray over the next 7 years
Beauty and the Beast Blu-rayWe've got good news and bad news. The good news is that our children won't have to suffer through SD versions of their favorite movies forever, the bad is that it's going to take another seven years. This might be really bad news for some of us, because we don't know about anyone else, but our kids like to watch the same movies over and over again and suffering through DVD versions of Disney classics is very painful on a 60-inch Kuro -- we swear the damage is permanent. This is especially true when the latest Disney titles are already available on Blu-ray so we know exactly what our poor kids are missing. Seven years isn't forever though and over the that time Disney will be releasing two of its 14 biggest classics each year with Beauty and the Beast and Fantasia coming first. All of them will of course be fully restored and included Dolby TrueHD 7.1 surround sound.

  • Beauty and the Beast
  • Fantasia
  • Fantasia 2000
  • The Lion King
  • Bambi
  • Cinderella
  • Lady and the Tramp
  • The Little Mermaid
  • Peter Pan
  • The Jungle Book
  • 101 Dalmatians
  • Sleeping Beauty

Disney releasing 14 classics on Blu-ray over the next 7 years originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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10/09/2009 - Sony polishes a couple of its ES receivers, intros the STR-DA3500ES and STR-DA5500ES

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Sony STR-DA5500ES receiver
The magic elves always save their best for the company's ES line, and while we're sure the STR-DA3500ES ($1,000) and STR-DA5500ES ($2,000) receivers are no exception, we're hard-pressed to find any big changes from the outgoing 3400ES and 5400ES models. That said, the older models stressed connectivity, clean design and easy operation, and sticking to those values is sure to appeal to many users. The STR-DA3500 is a 7x100-Watt AVR with 4 HDMI ins (2 outs) that can serve up audio to three zones and HD video to two; you might want to take advantage of the Control4 compatibility to manage the signals hither and yon. The STR-DA5500ES steps things up with 7x120-Watt amplification, 6 HDMI ins / 2 outs, control via IP, DLNA support, internet streaming (Shoutcast and Rhapsody) and that nifty streaming to your network over CAT5e seen in the 5400ES. The 5500ES also gets a couple new bits of tech -- HD Digital Cinema Sound that recreates studio sound in your home (seems like an EQ mode) and Automatic Phase Matching which "corrects for phase differentiation" among speakers (sounds like a variation on the automatic phase and frequency room EQ theme). Interested? Go past the break for the full PR.


Continue reading Sony polishes a couple of its ES receivers, intros the STR-DA3500ES and STR-DA5500ES

Sony polishes a couple of its ES receivers, intros the STR-DA3500ES and STR-DA5500ES originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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09/09/2009 - Grant Fidelity's $3,200 Impression II weds CD player, tube amp and overkill

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See that? That's a $3,200 CD player, which will be impossible to justify for pretty much anyone not featured on Joan Rivers' newest TV show. Designed and produced by Grant Fidelity, the CD-1000 Impression II packs a high-end Sanyo CD drive, tube analog output, tube headphone amplifier and a rather basic display screen, while the "anti-vibration aluminum chassis" tries as hard as it can to look both unorthodox and absurdly expensive. It's hard to say if your burnt MP3 discs will actually sound better on this thing (okay, so they won't), but at least you can rest easy knowing that shipping on this 50 pound beast is completely gratis.

[Via OhGizmo]

Grant Fidelity's $3,200 Impression II weds CD player, tube amp and overkill originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 06:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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04/09/2009 - Video: Philips' 3rd gen Aurea 'egg' remote gets put through the paces

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What better to complement your new trippy, edge-glowing Philips 3rd gen Aurea HDTV than an egg-shaped remote? Our friends at Engaget Spanish hunted down the controller and walked away impressed at its build construction and design -- but not before capturing numerous pictures and footage, of course. There was some concern with the rigidity of the buttons, but nothing worth squabbling over on this bundled device. Hit up the read link for the full, machine-translated impressions, or affix your gaze on the pics and video below.

Continue reading Video: Philips' 3rd gen Aurea 'egg' remote gets put through the paces

Video: Philips' 3rd gen Aurea 'egg' remote gets put through the paces originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 11:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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01/09/2009 - First Portable 3D Monitor for Viewing Without Glasses

The Swiss brand nvp3D introduced the FreeD Multi-Media Player – the first portable autonomous 3D monitor for viewing without glasses.

The device is autonomous, that means there is no need of a computer connection to view. The content – videos and photos - is displaying on 7-inch monitor from the SD card. Autonomy of the player is limited by the battery to approx. 2 hours.


21/08/2009 - PS3 Slim bitsreams Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA audio, at last

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Slowly, ever so slowly we're beginning to learn about the internal differences between Sony's new PS3 Slim and its chubby ancestry. We already knew that it supported BraviaLink while talk of "faster gaming" was introduced (suspiciously) yesterday; something that remains very much in doubt until we can confirm. Now we hear that the fatboy gone slim will bitstream Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio direct to your receiver. Hear that audio nerds? Bitstream. See the HDMI chip on previous generations of the PS3 couldn't bitstream the new(ish) high def codecs like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA. As such, the PS3 had to decode it internally before sending it over to your receiver via LPCM. A process that could garble the lossless audio depending on your setup. Even though the vast majority of people will never notice the difference (or even care), PS3 Slim owners can still kick back in smug satisfaction each time the TrueHD or DTS-HD MA indicators light-up on their receivers.

PS3 Slim bitsreams Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA audio, at last originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 01:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20/08/2009 - Panasonic in-dash HD nav system & Blu-ray player ready to ship, are you ready for the price?

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Don't think you can sell the kids short anymore, keeping the Blu-ray copy at home and taking DVD rips on the road, now that Panasonic is ready to deliver its in-dash Blu-ray player and 7-inch HD screen packing nav unit in September. We got a good peek at these back in April and the specs haven't changed, with the Profile 1.1 Bonus View compatible CY-BB1000D taking care of Blu-ray duties and featuring the same UniPhier guts as the company's line of living room Blu-ray players. The CN-HX3000D is a WXGA 1280x720p 7-inch LED backlit widescreen display ready to play back media via standard HDMI, iPod connector, SD card or its digital TV tuner, powered by Windows Automotive with navigation duties assisted by Google Maps and Yahoo! Japan. The CY-BB1000D is ¥99,750 ($1,057) and the CN-HX3000D is ¥365,400 ($3,872), and both arrive September 10 in Japan. We'll let you decide if around 5 grand is a good price for the in car HD experience (might want to look at custom mounting a DMP-B15, $800 and you can take it with you.)

Read - CYBB1000D
Read - CN-HX3000D

Panasonic in-dash HD nav system & Blu-ray player ready to ship, are you ready for the price? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 09:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19/08/2009 - Surround 3-D TV to Take Over the Living Rooms


For the first time, a team of researchers at the California Institute for Telecommunications and Information Technology (Calit2), have designed a 9-panel, 3-D visualization display from HDTV LCD flat-screens developed by JVC.

The NexCAVE's technology delivers a faithful, deep 3-D experience with great color saturation, contrast and really good stereo separation - claim the scientists.


11/08/2009 - High end Onkyo fans in Japan get Integra DTR-70.1, DTR-50.1 and DTR-40.1 receivers

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Onkyo Integra DTR-70.1 receiver
Just in case its home market was feeling a bit jealous over the US release of the TX-NR807 and TX-SR707 AVRs, Onkyo Japan has brought the DTR-70.1, DTR-50.1 and DTR-40.1 receivers to its Integra lineup. The 250-, 230-, and 190-Watt ratings in the PR need some extra salt, as they're "6-Ohm, 1-channel driven" specs. That said, Onkyo receivers haven't been known to run out of gas; we just wish the specs had a little more real-world applicability. On a happier note, the DTR-70.1 and DTR-50.1 feature Reon HQV video processing and ISF calibration, and all three models get Dolby ProLogic IIz and Audyssey DSX surround processing in addition to network streaming capabilities from the "mere" Onkyo line. If you're waiting for the stateside arrival of these AVRs, there's much more info to be teased out of the machine translations below.

[Via AkihabaraNews]

Read - Onkyo Integra DTR-70.1
Read - Onkyo Integra DTR-50.1
Read - Onkyo Integra DTR-40.1

High end Onkyo fans in Japan get Integra DTR-70.1, DTR-50.1 and DTR-40.1 receivers originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 12:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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11/08/2009 - Onkyo TX-NR807 and TX-SR707 receivers keep the updates rolling

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Onkyo TX-NR807 receiver
More than a few people have been interested in Onkyo's x07 receiver updates, and now the newness has come to the TX-SR707 and TX-NR807 models. The outgoing TX-SR706 and TX-SR806 models are well-specced to begin with, and thankfully Onkyo didn't mess with that formula. As you can guess from the "NR" designation, the $1,099 TX-NR807 adds in network streaming (including Pandora, Rhapsody, DLNA and Windows 7) to the 135-Watt/channel output. If you can do without the networking and only need 100-Watts, the TX-SR707 will save you a couple hundred bucks. Both models are THX Select2 badged, Faroudja scaling, and let you pick how to use your rear surround outputs by including both Dolby ProLogic IIz and Audyssey DSX processing. Like we said, Onkyo knows how to fill up the spec list, so head past the break for the full PR details.

Continue reading Onkyo TX-NR807 and TX-SR707 receivers keep the updates rolling

Onkyo TX-NR807 and TX-SR707 receivers keep the updates rolling originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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07/08/2009 - Transmission Audio Ultimate speakers -- $1M for the best monophonic sound ever

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Transmission Audio Ultimate speaker, woofer panel
We didn't think anything would top Goldmund's $190,000 Telos 5000 amplifier, but we should have known better. Bloated excess knows no bounds, so coming in at a cool $1,000,000 per side, we've got Transmission Audio's Ultimate speakers. Each channel consists of six, 7-foot high panels (one supertweeter ribbon, two tweeter/midrange ribbons, one 24x8-inch woofer, and two 10x15-inch subwoofer); taken together, a stereo pair of the Ultimates will eat up a modest 37-foot swath of your living room airplane hangar. Even people with more money than sense like convenience, though, so the Ultimate takes a page from the HTIB crowd and bundles in six 500-Watt dual-mono amplifiers and a preamp. At these prices, you'd think Transmission Audio could afford some bandwidth, but the company website has been stripped of photos at the moment, so hit the read link for more eye candy.

[Via CNET]

Transmission Audio Ultimate speakers -- $1M for the best monophonic sound ever originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 22:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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07/08/2009 - Passivists rejoice, Audioengine P4 bookshelf speakers now on sale

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Audioengine P4 speakers
We gave the sound quality Audioengine packed into its powered A2 speakers big thumbs up, but because there's different strokes for different folks, the company has added the more conventional P4 passive speaker to its virtual shelves. Whether you want to use a "spare" receiver, don't want to pay for an onboard amp, or think you can match up a system better than Audioengine's engineers, the P4 might be for you. No blow-molded plastic here, these $249/pair two-ways weigh in at 6-pounds each and have a 4-inch kevlar mid/woofer and a 0.75-inch silk tweeter. The price is right between Audioengine's powered A2 and A5 speakers, but we suspect the performance is closer to the bigger A5s. Available in black, white or bamboo, and with threaded inserts on the back and bottom, you could sprinkle these throughout the homestead. Full PR after the break.

Continue reading Passivists rejoice, Audioengine P4 bookshelf speakers now on sale

Passivists rejoice, Audioengine P4 bookshelf speakers now on sale originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 19:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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29/07/2009 - Onkyo Launches Home Theater Packages for Blu-ray and HD Video Systems

Onkyo has introduced two new 7.1-channel home theater systems that it claims deliver leading edge AV processing and surround sound reproduction for HDTV and Blu-ray.
The HT-S7200 and HT-S6200 each feature powerful AV receivers with 1080p-compatible HDMI inputs, 130 watt-per-channel amplification, processing for every major audio format on the market.

24/07/2009 - Audioholics overviews entry level receiver choices

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Entry level receivers
Take one sagging economy, add in advancing technology, bake them with some economies of scale and serve up to consumers hungry for this newfangled digital, HD AV craze -- it's a winning formula. When it comes to AV receivers, however, the pool is so crowded that picking a winner in the entry level category (remember that sagging economy) is daunting enough to push people to HTIB simplicity. The truth is that there's no single "best" entry-level receiver, but Audioholics has gone through the trouble of putting appropriate models from Denon, Yamaha, Harman Kardon, Onkyo and Pioneer into a feature comparison grid. The answer that emerges on which receiver is the "best" is a definite "it depends" -- you basically get to pick two out of three: audio features, video features and price. So the bad news is, you've got some choices to make; the good news is, you've got some choices to make.

Audioholics overviews entry level receiver choices originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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23/07/2009 - Olive blesses Opus No. 4 music server with 2TB of space, charges $1,799 for it

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We haven't heard from Olive in a white hot minute, but hey, given the price of its wares, maybe it just decided to take the whole recession off. At any rate, the boutique outfit is sashaying back onto the scene with the Opus No. 4, the newest member of its long-standing Opus Hi-Fi Digital Stereo family. As with the models that have come before, this ultra high-end music server packs loads of internal storage (2TB if you're counting), giving you enough room for around 6,000 CDs stored in the lossless FLAC format. There's also a handy, full-color display on the front that probably won't get much use, and 'round back, you'll find a WiFi adapter (for wireless music streaming, you dig?), optical / coaxial digital audio outputs, a left / right analog output, a USB socket and an Ethernet port (for more of that streaming stuff). Look good? You bet. Does it look $1,799 good? That's debatable.

Olive blesses Opus No. 4 music server with 2TB of space, charges $1,799 for it originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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02/07/2009 - Azentech joins the HD audio HTPC party

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X-FI HomeTheater HD
It wasn't that long ago that there wasn't a way for Blu-ray fans to enjoy the latest and greatest audio encoded with TrueHD and DTS-HD on their home theater PCs and now there are about to be two. That's thanks to the fact that Azentech is going to start shipping its X-FI HomeTheater HD sound card by the end of July -- no word on the price. Unfortunately just like the ASUS Xonar before it, you'll still need a separate video card for a complete solution. From there you'll connect the X-FI to your HDTV via HDMI 1.3 to enjoy your choice of bitstream or PCM lossless audio. You can even use analog outputs if you desire as well as other sources. We're really happy to see some competition in this space, but still wonder how long before you'll be able to just buy a video card that can do both.

Azentech joins the HD audio HTPC party originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 20:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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24/06/2009 - Now hear this -- NHT is back

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NHT is back
It's no secret we were holding out hope for speaker and electronics manufacturer NHT to make a comeback, but we didn't expect it's happen this soon. The iconic audio company powered things down at the end of March, and now co-founder Chris Byrne bringing the company back with a new factory-direct web-centric business model that will skip right over the middleman to the tune of as much as 30-percent savings. There's no substitute for a live demo, especially for audio, so authorized dealers will still have showrooms; but orders will still come factory-direct to consumers. Sounds reasonable, but we're curious about how much of a slice dealers take, and how they get credit for sales they generate in exchange for not having to carry any stock. Still, we've got to give credit to NHT for trying to get the crusty audio market moving in a new direction and hope this thing catches on so we can see some of the eight new product concepts currently in the works at NHT.

Now hear this -- NHT is back originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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17/06/2009 - Movavi Expands Free Online Media Conversion Service

Movavi has announced an expansion of its popular online video conversion service.
The upgraded Online.movavi.com service now enables users to fine tune a number of conversion parameters – codecs, resolution, video and audio quality, bitrate, and other key elements demanded by more sophisticated users.

17/06/2009 - Home Theater Mag welcomes VIZIO's VSB210WS soundbar to the audio fray

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VIZIO VSB210WS soundbar
The $350 price point for soundbars is a kind of sweet spot -- it's a fairly modest price, but companies have to deliver dramatic increases in quality over built-in TV audio. From reading Home Theater Mag's review of VIZIO's VSB210WS setup, it sounds like the brand will deliver the goods to value-conscious (an who isn't these days?) audio shoppers who don't want or need a full-blown multi-speaker surround system. The 2.1-channel VSB210WS soundbar+sub combo picked up both SRS TruSurround HD and TruVolume, and while it sounds like the TruVolume was a little too obvious about its on-the-fly volume adjustments, TruSurround HD got a nod from the reviewer. But more than signal processing, it was the fundamentally good sound quality that took the cake -- it's always better to deliver good quality stereo than poor multi-channel. Hit that link for the full details.

Home Theater Mag welcomes VIZIO's VSB210WS soundbar to the audio fray originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 19:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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16/06/2009 - Audyssey's Sub Equalizer aims to tame the pro bass

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Audyssey Sub Equalizer
Audyssey's Sub Equalizer may be targeted at the pro market, but if it's good enough for the pros, some enterprising home enthusiast will find a place for it in their home setup. Much like the Paradigm Perfect Bass Kit we just reviewed, the Audyssey Sub Equalizer will do its level best to get that pesky subwoofer properly integrated with the rest of your system -- except it'll work with subs of a non-Paradigm variety. For those who can't fit some upper-tier Denon, Onkyo/Integra, or NAD electronics into their signal chain, this little piece of kit brings the well-regarded MultEQ XT technology to your low Hertz. Available July 1, but with this being targeted at professionals (and looking the part, we might add), we've got a feeling that the price won't be wallet-friendly.

Audyssey's Sub Equalizer aims to tame the pro bass originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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11/06/2009 - Researchers ditch DLP, develop OLED panel-based mini projector

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Looking for a way to differentiate among the ever-expanding niche of pocket projectors, researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering (IOF) of Germany are working on an OLED panel-based mini projector, using static optical systems and not the usual reflective system à la DLP. Currently being shown at SID Display Week 2009, the decidedly green picture (seems to be the norm with OLED prototypes these days) forms via a 6-inch VGA screen from 30 to 50 centimeters away, and the machine itself takes up just about ten cubic centimeters of space. Despite all the faith, there's still the rather nasty problem of luminance, which the scientists estimate needs to be about four or five times as bright as current levels -- but hey, you gotta start somewhere, right?

Researchers ditch DLP, develop OLED panel-based mini projector originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 11 Jun 2009 02:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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04/06/2009 - Klipsch rewarding wisecracks with sweet gear

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Especially these days, a witty sense of humor and a quarter won't even get you a cup of coffee, but Klipsch is giving funny-makers a shot at some its S4 headphones and a HD Theater 300 speaker setup. That's right -- those snarky remarks you normally give out for free can now score you some gear! Here's the bracket breakdown -- four caption contests will be run (each lasting two weeks) and the winning entry from each caption contest will win a pair of S4 in-ears; and a random entry from the final four will score a HD Theater 300 speaker system. Long odds and lots of competition, so now's the time to break open that war chest of audiophile taunts you've been building up. Full PR release after the break.

Continue reading Klipsch rewarding wisecracks with sweet gear

Klipsch rewarding wisecracks with sweet gear originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 23:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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23/05/2009 - VOOM HD gear goes up for auction

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VOOM HD auction paddleListen up, aspiring HD content creators -- VOOM HD's demise could be your gain. If the HD video features of the latest crop of DSLRs and DILs (digital interchangeable lens) aren't enough for you, you'll have a chance to pick up some of VOOM HD's gear at an auction on June 16. Among the items up for grabs are a bunch of Sony HD camcorders, Canon HD lenses, and 5 Panasonic PT-AE2000U projectors that we imagine would do a perfectly fine job in the living room. If you've got some cash burning a hole in your pocket, this could be a great way to jump-start your HD rig, but those attending the auction in person will need to watch out for snipers sitting in on the webcast.

VOOM HD gear goes up for auction originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 22 May 2009 21:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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18/05/2009 - How do you like your TiVo, with bleeps & bloops or without?

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This isn't one of our polls but it's a worth question: TiVo users, do you leave your unit's distinctive bleeps and bloops on, or turn them off? Our friends at TV Squad want to know, claiming that once they turned off the menu's audio cues the DVR seemed hollow and lonely. So let us know if you keep the sounds on, Sex & the City style, even if it's just to lord them over your cable DVR owning friends, stuck timeshifting in silence.

How do you like your TiVo, with bleeps & bloops or without? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 18 May 2009 09:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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10/05/2009 - Marantz KI Pearl SACD player and integrated amp -- audiophile tested, Ken Ishiwata-approved

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Marantz KI Pearl SACD player and integrated amplifier
One reason we keep a place in our hearts for high-end audio is that there is still room for a single designer's vision, and this is no more apparent than in components with designer initials etched right into the faceplate. Right in line with NAD's stereo components wearing Bjorn Erik Edvardsen's initials, Marantz has issued the KI (Ken Ishiwata) Pearl stereo SACD player (model SA-KI) and matching integrated amplifier (model PM-KI). As with any signature gear, top-notch build is expected, and the Marantz KI Pearls don't disappoint; toroidal transformers, copper plated chassis and hand-picked components make the grade. Of course, you also expect high prices, and the KI Pearl pieces also deliver on that front -- the limited run of 500 pieces (each) of the SACD player and integrated amp will go for £2,499 ($3,769) each, and no US availability or pricing has been released yet. Painful, yes, but you might take some small comfort in knowing this is exactly the kind of gear that will appreciate in value. Audio geeks can go past the break for more glamor shots.

Continue reading Marantz KI Pearl SACD player and integrated amp -- audiophile tested, Ken Ishiwata-approved

Marantz KI Pearl SACD player and integrated amp -- audiophile tested, Ken Ishiwata-approved originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 09 May 2009 19:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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03/05/2009 - Stereophile mag's parent company hits hard times

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Stereophile headstoneWe've been steering around stories related to the woeful state of the economy -- and even trying to add some sunshine of our own -- because, frankly, writing about an endless string of companies hitting hard times is just depressing. But the bankruptcy of Source Interlink, parent company of Stereophile magazine, strikes a nostalgic chord for us. Our introduction to the crazy audiophile world came through the folio-sized pages, but recent glances at magazine racks show a slimming magazine and a move towards the nosebleed price regime of the high-end. We don't think that the growth in consumer audio -- and (gasp) convenience -- is at odds with high performance, and one magazine is hardly a bellwether for an entire market; but it's clear that manufacturers need to do more than put high-grade finishes and price tags on their goods to enjoy a healthy business that can survive changing trends in today's market. But we'd love to hear your thoughts -- what's your take on the health of high-end audio?

Stereophile mag's parent company hits hard times originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 03 May 2009 09:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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01/05/2009 - Audio Karma Fest going down in Livonia, MI this weekend

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Audio Karma Fest 2009 logo
If you don't have plans for this weekend yet and you're in the neighborhood of Livonia, MI, maybe pencil in some time to check out Audio Karma Fest. It sounds like it's going to be quite the playground for audio- and videophiles, with demos of the really expensive stuff from some high-end brands. For example, McIntosh will be showing off the limited-run Classic System and unveiling its MR88 AM/FM/XM/HD tuner. Paired up with McIntosh equipment will be some high-ticket speakers from sister company Snell; and if you want to boost your speaker design chops, you can't do a whole lot better than sitting in on a Joseph D'Appolito seminar. Also getting the "for your eyes only" treatment is the US unveiling of the Marantz UD9004 universal Blu-ray deck. Hit the links for more detailed info on what vendors are bringing to the party; playground admission is $25.

Read - McIntosh at Audio Karma Fest 2009
Read - Snell's lineup
Read - D'Appolito seminar
Read - Marantz demos

Audio Karma Fest going down in Livonia, MI this weekend originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 01 May 2009 14:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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21/04/2009 - HD 101: How to use Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD with your PS3

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DTS-HD MA on the PS3
If you read Engadget HD, it's safe to say that you're ahead of the curve when it comes to home audio/video. You do your homework before picking out gear, and you know that the PS3 can deliver Blu-ray audio bliss courtesy lossless Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA tracks. One look at all the configuration options in the PS3's XMB (Xross Media Bar) interface, however, and you might find yourself wondering how to unlock the those audio codecs. In this installment of HD 101, we'll briefly cover the reason for the confusion and then go through setting up your PS3 for lossless audio step-by-step.

Continue reading HD 101: How to use Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD with your PS3

HD 101: How to use Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD with your PS3 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 14:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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21/04/2009 - Pioneer gives its PDX-Z10 SACD player an iPod boost

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Pioneer PDX-Z10 SACD player
We're not sure about how well the SACD (Super Audio CD) format is doing in Japan, but if it's anything like it is here in the US, then the iPod input on Pioneer Japan's PDX-Z10 SACD player will be a welcome addition to those audiophiles who actually want a wide selection of content. To be fair, the PDX-Z10 packs a fair bit of audio utility into its sleek chassis, with a 2x50-Watt amp, USB input, and an ethernet port for DLNA access to media stored around your local network. The PDX-Z10 is set for a late May release, but the ¥150,000 ($1500) pricetag is going to relegate this piece of gear to the executive offices. Again, we're not intimately familiar with the Japanese market, but we're scratching our heads over how Pioneer could shutter the Kuro displays, but keep a light on for SACD.

Pioneer gives its PDX-Z10 SACD player an iPod boost originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 02:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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18/04/2009 - HD 101: How to use Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD with your PS3

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DTS-HD MA on the PS3
If you read Engadget HD, it's safe to say that you're ahead of the curve when it comes to home audio/video. You do your homework before picking out gear, and you know that the PS3 can deliver Blu-ray audio bliss courtesy lossless Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA tracks. One look at all the configuration options in the PS3's XMB (Xross Media Bar) interface, however, and you might find yourself wondering how to unlock the those audio codecs. In this installment of HD 101, we'll briefly cover the reason for the confusion and then go through setting up your PS3 for lossless audio step-by-step.

Continue reading HD 101: How to use Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD with your PS3

HD 101: How to use Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD with your PS3 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 18 Apr 2009 14:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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14/04/2009 - Multi-room audio owners are all smiles with their purchase

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Sonos multi-room audio system
The growing number of "zone 2" speaker taps on the latest generation of receivers is all the evidence you need that multi-room audio systems are big with consumers. Cynics might argue that 7.1 channels of sound pretty much saturated the living room, but a study from the CEA (Consumer Electronics Association) says that people with multi-room audio covering more than two rooms are happy with their setups. A whopping 85-percent of those folks would take the plunge all over again, and with more than half of them using their systems daily, it's easy to understand why. With prices on multi-room audio moving down -- especially with after-market solutions -- we're hoping lots more people jump into this product sector and join that happy 85-percent.

Multi-room audio owners are all smiles with their purchase originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 14 Apr 2009 09:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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26/03/2009 - Sony's XEL-1 OLED TV finally coming to Australia next month

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Sony's XEL-1, widely known as the first consumer-level OLED TV to hit the market, has done a pretty decent job of traversing the globe. For reasons unknown, however, it has yet to touch down in the great nation of Australia. Thankfully for deep-pocketed Aussies who passed up on the Kevin37 deal, all that changes next month. CNET is reporting that Sony will launch its 11-inch wonder Down Under in "mid-April," with pricing expected to be anywhere from AU$6,000 ($4,209) to AU$8,000 ($5,612). Call us looney, but we get the idea that most mates will be passing this opportunity up without thinking twice. We mean, do you have any idea how much, um, stuff that kind of dough buys in Nimbin?

[Via Sony Insider]

Sony's XEL-1 OLED TV finally coming to Australia next month originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 25 Mar 2009 19:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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24/03/2009 - As receivers pack more features per dollar, Audioholics questions the trade-off

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Yamaha RX-V663 vs RX-V665
One welcome trend in AV receivers is the addition of more features at lower price points. Modern, full-featured AV receivers are signal processing powerhouses, and we've come to expect HDMI switching, video processing, on-screen UIs and room correction as de rigeur features. Everyone loves these conveniences, but there's a catch -- in many cases, sound quality is what's getting left behind in the transition. Audioholics has put its hand to enough receivers to know this, and without crying foul, the linked article does a good job of keeping you informed of the tradeoffs. Bottom line -- software-laden silicon keeps getting cheaper and lighter, but the (largely analog) componentry used for audio amplification doesn't. So if your latest receiver is lighter, cheaper and sports a longer spec list, you have a good idea where designers trimmed; and it's not the S-Video ports. The differences may not be audible, but if current trends in audio are any indicator, the limit of what is "good enough" is headed for market testing. Meanwhile, take your ears along with the spec sheets if you're shopping receivers.

As receivers pack more features per dollar, Audioholics questions the trade-off originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 24 Mar 2009 07:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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24/03/2009 - Sharp bringing dual Freeview tuning HDTVs to Australia

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Details are frustratingly sparse at the moment, but Smarthouse has it that Sharp is gearing up to offer HDTVs in Australia with a unique Freeview tuning system. Specifically, these sets will boast MPEG4 and MPEG2 tuners which will allow consumers to continue receiving their digital TV signals "without the threat of their TV recording being restricted." You see, the MPEG4 tuners would be used to restrict recording and limit ad skipping, but apparently no such strings can be attached to MPEG2 processors. It's said that the sets should be available "soon," but details like size, features and price have yet to be revealed. Patience, mates.

Sharp bringing dual Freeview tuning HDTVs to Australia originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 24 Mar 2009 05:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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21/03/2009 - Dolby gives Chinese Blu-ray makers access to TrueHD / Digital Plus

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It's hard to tell if this is a coincidence or not, but just hours after the Blu-ray Disc Association granted the DRA audio coding technology approval for use on Blu-ray flicks, Dolby has come forward to proudly proclaim that its TrueHD and Digital Plus audio technologies can now be used by select Chinese firms. TCL Technoly Electronics, MIT Technology and Lite-On have all been given the green light under license to use Dolby's tech on Blu-ray Disc products, though it does seem a bit curious to us that only these three were selected. Maybe those other guys didn't pass the "apt-to-ape" test?

Dolby gives Chinese Blu-ray makers access to TrueHD / Digital Plus originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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16/03/2009 - Onkyo intros 'entry-level' HT-S5200 and HT-S3200 HTIB systems

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Hope you won't be confused by two more HTIB systems from Onkyo, 'cause they're coming at you fast and furious. Starting things off is the 7.1-channel HT-S5200, which packs 1,200 total watts of power and includes a 10-inch, 290 watt subwoofer. Said setup is Sirius-ready and features an HDMI-equipped audio-video receiver, four DSP gaming modes, Audyssey 2EQ room correction technology and Audyssey Dynamic Volume to keep levels, um level. The lower-end HT-S3200 consists of a 5.1-channel, 660 watt system that bundles in the HT-R370 receiver and includes a trio of HDMI pass-through inputs, DTS and Dolby Digital surround processing and an 8-inch subwoofer. Both rigs are available now in black or silver for $599 and $379 in order of mention.

Onkyo intros 'entry-level' HT-S5200 and HT-S3200 HTIB systems originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 16 Mar 2009 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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15/03/2009 - Emotiva's ERC-1 reference CD player ships next month for $399

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If you're lovin' that post-modern / art deco look that Emotiva has going on, and you're a sucker for all things audiophile, we've got just the thing to make you $399 poorer. Said outfit has just revealed that its ERC-1 reference CD player will be arriving next month, and aside from the unmistakable design, it'll also bring along Burr Brown OPA2131 Op-amps, an Analog Devices 1955 DAC and a 24 bit-processor. You'll also find (well, you will if you crack things open) separate and sealed power supplies for each working mechanism, which supposedly ensures noise-free listening. Oh, and then there's the glowing blue CD slot, which is totally worth four bills in and of itself.

Emotiva's ERC-1 reference CD player ships next month for $399 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 15 Mar 2009 09:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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09/03/2009 - Panasonic updates its commercial plasmas down under

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Panasonic TH-58PF11WK plasma
Panasonic isn't exiting the plasma market (well, at least not yet) and if you've got a need for plasma image quality in your signage or you want input flexibility for your living room set, a Panny commercial plasma might be just the thing for you. The new TH-58PF11WK, TH-50PF11WK and TH-42PF11WK models for our friends in Autralasia come with "Full HD" (FHD) 1920x1080 pixels and three user-configurable slots that can house modules for audio and/or video input; there's even a module for wireless connection. Yeah, wireless sounds nice, but we'll give the ability to tile up to 25 plasmas in a 5x5 array as the real feature you should try on for size.

Panasonic updates its commercial plasmas down under originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 09 Mar 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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09/03/2009 - Audio watermarks let the MPAA know where a recording was taken, but not by whom

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Audio watermarks let the MPAA know where a recording was taken, but not by whomWe've heard of some crazy audio watermark plans in the past, designed to prevent people from making copies of Hollywood blockbusters, and as the audio industry finally moves away from its protective restrictions, the film industry seems to just keep working on more. The latest, created by Professor Noboru Babaguchi and his colleagues at Osaka University in Japan, is a means to apply spread-spectrum audio waveforms to a film's multi-channel soundtrack, enabling pirate seekers to determine exactly (well, to within 44 centimeters) where the bootlegger was sitting when he or she committed his or her felonious deeds. Interesting, sure, but unless all theaters worldwide start assigning seats by name it's useless. Beyond that, there's nothing stopping an intrepid recorder from stashing a mic a few feet to the left or the right, thus implicating an idle popcorn-muncher. Will these flaws keep this technology from being implemented? Don't count on it.

[Via Slashdot]

Audio watermarks let the MPAA know where a recording was taken, but not by whom originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 09 Mar 2009 08:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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09/03/2009 - Survey shows increasing preference for MP3 by youngsters, audiophiles weep

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We can already envision the flame fest on this one, so we'll just cut to the chase. Jonathan Berger, professor of music at Stanford, has been conducting some pretty interesting tests on incoming students, and he's been recording results that'll surely make audiophiles cringe. He has been asking his students to listen to tracks in MP3 format as well as in formats of much higher quality, all while asking them to select the one they like best; increasingly, youngsters have been choosing the sizzling, tinny sounds of MP3 over more pure representations. The reasoning may have more to do with psychology that audiology, as many conclude that generations simply prefer what they're used to. Ever known someone to swear that vinyl sounds best, pops and all? So yeah, what we've really learned is that MP3 is more of an "acquired taste," but those still attempting to build their SACD collection should be genuinely afraid of the future.

[Via techdirt, image courtesy of iasos]

Survey shows increasing preference for MP3 by youngsters, audiophiles weep originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 09 Mar 2009 06:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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08/03/2009 - SVSound adds STS-01 tower to S Series lineup

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We've heard some pretty positive things about SVSound in our day, so it's definitely a pleasure to see the outfit introducing something new for home theater junkies with the STS-01. The so-called "slim tower" joins the growing S Series family, bringing along a 7-inch wide enclosure that packs a ClearSilk F2 ferrofluid-cooled tweeter and four newly enhanced soft-dome 6-inch poly-cone woofers. The company asserts that the masterfully refined crossover system and stellar imaging will satisfy even the most demanding ears, and you can find out yourself when these ship this summer for $849 per pair (make that $749 per pair if you get in early!).

[Thanks, Sean]

SVSound adds STS-01 tower to S Series lineup originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 08 Mar 2009 11:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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08/03/2009 - Kogan hopes you'll spend stimulus bucks on Kevin37 HDTV

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This, folks, is the tell-tale sign of someone eager and willing to capitalize. Kogan, the guy who almost made a QWERTY-packin' Android phone, has conjured up a brilliant way for Aussies to spend their forthcoming stimulus checks. You see, the Australian government has sent out AU$900 checks to citizens who made under AU$100,000 last year in an effort to boost the overall economy, and lo and behold, this 37-inch HDTV (comically named Kevin37 -- the locals know what's up) is priced at exactly AU$900. As for specs, you're looking at a 1,366 x 768 resolution panel, 1,200:1 contrast ratio, six-millisecond response time, 600 nits of brightness, a PAL / SECAM / NTSC tuner and a slew of connectors. Get your orders in now before you think better of it, and watch for it to head your way in late April.

[Via Gizmag]

Kogan hopes you'll spend stimulus bucks on Kevin37 HDTV originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 08 Mar 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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06/03/2009 - Samsung gets fancy with Bordeaux PAVV Fabrizio 650 LCD HDTVs

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Considering that we can't even pronounce the HDTV lineup we're referring too here, we'll assume these are simply made to be enjoyed by a finer class of individuals. All jesting aside (sort of...), the Bordeaux PAVV Fabrizio 650 lineup that just landed in Korea contains two newcomers: a 40- and 46-incher, both of which sport full 1080p panels and 120Hz dejudder technology. They also include DLNA support and an integrated USB port alongside four HDMI 1.3 sockets and your favorite glass of wine. There's no mention of a price or US release date, but those with friends in high places probably needn't worry.

Samsung gets fancy with Bordeaux PAVV Fabrizio 650 LCD HDTVs originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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27/02/2009 - EQD promises low prices on AURIA HDTV line, won't give specifics

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As the HDTV mainstays teeter on failure, drop lines and consider consolidation, newcomer EQD is hoping to exploit the situation by hitting the big guys where they simply can't compete: price. As we've already learned from VIZIO, price is king in the TV world right now, so when a new firm comes out swinging with 720p / 1080p HDTVs at "up to 20 percent less than other TV brands," we pay attention. Furthermore, EQD is slapping a two-year warranty on its entire AURIA line and pledging a portion of each sale towards charity. We're told to expect sets ranging from 16- to 47-inches in size, and each of the models should include an integrated ATSC / NTSC / QAM TV tuner along with HDMI 1.3 inputs. EQD is expected to make its HDTV debut when its first models ship in March or April, though only time will tell exactly how "low" these MSRPs will be.

[Via ElectronicHouse]

EQD promises low prices on AURIA HDTV line, won't give specifics originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 08:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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23/02/2009 - DALI's bold-sounding LEKTOR 8 speakers garner a positive review

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DALI LEKTOR 8 speakers
You might not have noticed from the press shot of the LEKTOR LCR on-wall speakers, but the Danish DALI company's coated paper woofers have a deep red color to them. Based on the review at Audioholics, the treated paper used in the foorstanding LEKTOR 8's 8-inch woofers isn't just for show. Striking a contrast to what we've heard from other, more well-known Danish speaker companies (like, say, Dynaudio), the LEKTOR 8s turned in a big and bassy performance. That's not a slight on either company, and it's nice to know that you can have both Danish styling and bigger sound if that's what you're after. The wood grain vinyl wrap was the highest quality the reviewer had ever seen, and the metal accents definitely give the LEKTOR 8s a touch of class you'd expect at $1,800 per pair. Hit the link for the full review and seek out a nearby dealer if your interest is piqued.

DALI's bold-sounding LEKTOR 8 speakers garner a positive review originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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23/02/2009 - Kenwood takes a note from Bose with DTS Surround Sensation CD system

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If you weren't well versed on logos (and you were illiterate, too), you'd probably assume that the music system pictured above was just another overpriced Bose that could be yours for nine low payments of $49.99. In fact, it's a new Kenwood-branded CD system that will purportedly be able to simulate surround sound from just two speakers. The system will include the DTS Surround Sensation technology, a slot for audio CDs and a rather vanilla display. Beyond that, we're left to simply wonder, as Kenwood is remaining mum on critical details like pricing, release date, RMS, driver size, frequency range and input / output options. Wow, that kind of dodgy secretiveness reeks of some other company we know of... but we're sure it's not intentional. (Right?)

[Via Impress]

Kenwood takes a note from Bose with DTS Surround Sensation CD system originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 08:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19/02/2009 - Opera's Caruso speakers bring tears, laughter

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Opera Caruso speakers
One look at the Caruso speakers from Opera Loudspeakers and you know the punchline -- sure they're fat, but will they sing? Details on what's packed in each handcrafted box is suitably sparse, as these are clearly intended for the silly-rich who want something that's expensive, showy and fits in well with the decor of the prospective owner's abode -- something keeps pulling us towards a Fifth Element Mondoshawan theme (we'll let you judge if that's good or bad). Caruso praised the four side mounted 8-inch woofers, and based on the pics, we're guessing that after that there are four 5-inch mids and five 2-inch tweets (four rearward facing). Lots of cabinetry, lots of wood and lots of money; can you say "ostentatious flagship?" Paired up with the Caruso name, the €28,000 ($35,000) sticker brings Pagliacci to our minds.

[Mondoshawan image courtesy Gung Ho Sci Fi]

Opera's Caruso speakers bring tears, laughter originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 19 Feb 2009 04:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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16/02/2009 - NBS Cables delivers speakers for the rich, geometrically inclined

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Oh sure, those space-age speakers are cute and all, but it's the sharp points and long lines that set apart the true modernists. NBS Cables has a full line of high-end speakers within the E. V. A. and Butterfly crews, mostly shaped like pyramids and rectangles. A whole setup will run you around $200,000, though we're sure NBS would be happy to sell separates if you need to take things one at a time. You know, just in case you haven't won the lottery within the last decade or so.

[Via CNET]

NBS Cables delivers speakers for the rich, geometrically inclined originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 16 Feb 2009 08:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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15/02/2009 - Eclipse rolls out ultra-pricey TD712zMK2 space speakers

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Eclipse is up to speed with this whole high-end gig, so it's no shock to see the company outing a new pair of speakers meant for millionaires and Martians over in Japan. The TD712zMK2 loudspeaker sports a 12 centimeter driver, playback frequency of 35Hz to 26kHz and a stand that just might be more sturdy than the beams holding your apartment up. Of course, with a starting price of ¥325,500 ($3,539) per speaker, that's totally to be expected.

[Via Impress]

Eclipse rolls out ultra-pricey TD712zMK2 space speakers originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 15 Feb 2009 14:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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12/02/2009 - Microsoft Xbox video marketplace ad banned for being misleading

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Apple isn't the only one to run afoul of the UK's Advertising Standards Authority, now that one of Microsoft's recent ads (embedded after the break) promoting its video rental service has been banned. Challenged because it fails to mention the viewing window (24 hours after pressing play / 14 days after download,) the board agreed, saying users may be influenced to purchase on the basis of being able to download and keep movies, which currently they can't. Microsoft argued that the ad was too short to get into the details of its DRM requirements, but maybe next time they'll hire one of the fast talking individuals from oh-so-many pharmaceutical ads for the last second disclaimer.

[Via Joystiq Xbox & CVG]

Continue reading Microsoft Xbox video marketplace ad banned for being misleading

Microsoft Xbox video marketplace ad banned for being misleading originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 12 Feb 2009 15:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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09/02/2009 - NAD intros the C 725BEE stereo receiver for those sticking to 2-channel

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NAD C 725BEE
NAD Electronics has introduced the C 725BEE stereo receiver for those who either have an audio-only system separate from their HT gear or still aren't sold on the whole discrete multichannel thing. Let's face it -- despite the great sound quality possible on recordings that go past the Red Book audio standard, chances are that most of your audio library is still sourced from two-channel CDs. Content is king, so there might be a place for this 50-Watt receiver with an analog stage that must be something special, because NAD saw fit to add its designer's (Bjorn Erik Edvardsen) initials right on the model name. Promising the sound quality of separate amplifier/preamp gear, the C 725BEE includes NAD's Soft Clipping and Power Drive circuitry, and as expected from the brand, the modest 50-Watt rating belies the 200-Watt peak short-term output. The $799 might be well worth it if you spend a lot of time sitting in your listening den's sweet spot.

NAD intros the C 725BEE stereo receiver for those sticking to 2-channel originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 09 Feb 2009 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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09/02/2009 - Bang & Olufsen's BeoSound 5 music server / controller demoed on video

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Bang & Olufsen's BeoSound 5 is only apt to be actually experienced by those with more disposable income than sense (or just loads of cash and a taste for finer things, actually), but even us laypeople can get a quick peek at this $5,900 music server / controller thanks to the wonders of YouTube. Hop on past the break to see what you're missing out on. Or what you're headed out to pick up today, you lucky, lucky individual.

Continue reading Bang & Olufsen's BeoSound 5 music server / controller demoed on video

Bang & Olufsen's BeoSound 5 music server / controller demoed on video originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 08 Feb 2009 23:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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06/02/2009 - Bang & Olufsen's BeoSound 5 hits US shores

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Bang & Olufsen BeoSound 5
Bust open the piggy bank, because Bang & Olufsen's BeoSound 5 will officially hit North American shores this month. For a mere $5,900, you can get into the two part system -- the black box BeoMaster 5 socket unit with 500GB of storage and internet connectivity and the drop-dead gorgeous BeoSound 5 master unit for cueing up your favorite tunes. Not sure what song to put on deck? No problem -- leave it to Bang & Olufsen's MOTS (More Of The Same) intelligent playlist technology to pick a mathematically perfect match. Sorry, but this setup is anything but "more of the same." Beat matching not included, but we still want one.

Bang & Olufsen's BeoSound 5 hits US shores originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 06 Feb 2009 09:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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02/02/2009 - Xbox 360 HDMI audio fix arrives tomorrow morning

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Notice something missing from your Xbox 360 ever since the NXE went live? Some HDMI-connected gamers lost all audio after the update, and a fix is finally on the way. According to Major Nelson, it's due to arrive February 3 at 2:00 a.m. PST in a mandatory dashboard update that should address the issues experienced with some HDTVs. That problem with your idiot friend always triggering the witch while playing Left 4 Dead? Still unaddressed.

Xbox 360 HDMI audio fix arrives tomorrow morning originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 02 Feb 2009 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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02/02/2009 - Blu-ray catching on in Australia

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Blu-ray AustraliaIt sounds like Blu-ray is ever so slowly catching a toe-hold in Australia, where the format just landed in 5-percent of homes and disc sales crested the 1-million units. Not great numbers, but considering there are only 29 titles on the market there, it's not insignificant either. That's some good news/bad news if you ask us, but consistent with what the BDA has been saying, the growth has outpaced DVD's initial start. Color us cautiously optimistic -- getting into 5-percent of homes a whole year sooner than DVD did is nothing to sneeze at, but let's see how the numbers scale in a country with very similar broadband penetration to the US.

Blu-ray catching on in Australia originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 02 Feb 2009 14:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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02/02/2009 - Denon delays Japanese delivery of its DVD-A1UD universal Blu-ray deck

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Denon DVD-A1UD universal Blu-ray player
Have you been waiting for Denon's DVD-A1UD universal Blu-ray player to fill that gaping hole in your equipment rack left when sold your SACD, DVD-A and Blu-ray decks on eBay? Be prepared to wait a little longer than expected -- the Japanese launch, originally set for January, has been moved out by a couple of months due to a "delay in the launch of production." That means the February US release is right out, and we wouldn't be surprised to see the European availability slip from its March date either. It looks like sister company Marantz's BD8002 will have to serve D&M Holdings' kilobuck Blu-ray player market for a while longer. Hit the link for the bad news, made worse by machine translation.

[Via Electronista]

Denon delays Japanese delivery of its DVD-A1UD universal Blu-ray deck originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 01 Feb 2009 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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31/01/2009 - Super Bowl XLIII airing in 230 countries, over half in HD

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Man, what a difference a year makes. In 2008 we saw that Super Bowl XLII would be aired in 28 countries around the world, and this year that number is increasing substantially to 230. A grand total of 61 international broadcasters will televise the game in 34 languages, with the high-def signal going to 19 broadcast partners in 152 countries. DTS also notes that its Neural Surround technology will be tapped in order to deliver "5.1-channel" sound to international viewers through "any consumer surround sound system." The live action kicks off at 6:00PM ET this Sunday, and given the abundance of partners, you should be able to catch it (even in HD) almost anywhere in the world.

Super Bowl XLIII airing in 230 countries, over half in HD originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 30 Jan 2009 21:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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30/01/2009 - CasaTools ships CasaTunes XL Multi-Room Music Server

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It's a month or so late, but those eager to get their hands on a new music server from the labs of CasaTunes are probably willing to forgive the brief delay. The multi-room device, which was announced last September at CEDIA, is finally shipping to those interested. Dubbed the CasaTunes XL, it comes stocked with a capacious 250GB hard drive (which, honestly, sort of pales in comparison to WD's newest 2TB monster), touchscreen controls and the ability to shuffle between up to nine different sources. A few different model options are available, but you can get started for as low as $1,499.

CasaTools ships CasaTunes XL Multi-Room Music Server originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 30 Jan 2009 11:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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29/01/2009 - Audioholics puts nine bokshelf speakers head-to-head

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Audioholics bookshelf speaker shootout
Generally speaking, loudspeakers should enjoy a relatively long life in your system. That's doubly true for budget bookshelf models -- you can pick up a pair for front channel duty when you start out your HT system, migrate them to rear-channel surround duty on your first speaker upgrade, and then move them to another room when you dive into whole-home audio. Audioholics took seven budget (and a couple of higher-priced) bookshelf speakers and had a showdown based on sound quality alone in a series of head-to-head matchups. We won't spoil the outcome for you, but it turns out that you can score some good performance for not a lot of dollars -- and that's always good news, right?

Audioholics puts nine bokshelf speakers head-to-head originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 29 Jan 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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28/01/2009 - Spendor breaks out its statement ST speaker

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Spendor ST speaker
Audiophiles who love the typically "dry" sound of British speakers will be familiar with the Spendor name. The company's BC1 and SP1 models are old-school audiophile classics, but Spendor has rolled out a new flagship ST model that at least looks great next to those bland-looking (but great sounding) boxes. The front inlay on the ported cabinet looks indulgent, no matter whether you opt for the ebony, zebrano or aluminum look and then the 7-inch Kevlar woofer, 7-inch polymer mid-bass and 1.1-inch tweeter finish off the package. The 58Hz - 20kHz response on the $8,995 per pair speaker isn't much to crow about, but then again, it really doesn't tell you how the speaker sounds in real life, either. Chances are if you're shopping this speaker, you've already formed a short list based on things that aren't on spec sheets.

Spendor breaks out its statement ST speaker originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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27/01/2009 - AudioQuest cooks up field terminated HDMI cables

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Installers and DIYers, take note -- AudioQuest has just solved one of HDMI's biggest challenges. Reportedly, the company has created the world's first HDMI cables and connectors that can be terminated in the field while still retaining the integrity of HDMI. Essentially, this solution calls for installers to split the 19 HDMI wires into two groups -- one of ten and one of nine -- in order to make each bundle one that can be crimped. Additionally, AudioQuest's design relies on solid conductors instead of stranded wires, which are supposedly better suited to keep signal integrity and geometry stability. Testing proved that these field terminated cables were able to maintain an optimal 100 Ohms throughout the connector, which is arguably even better than what's offered in the outfit's traditional soldered cables. Of course, HDMI Licensing still has to decide whether or not the new method is fit for certification, but you can bet that AudioQuest will be pushing its point hard in the near future.

AudioQuest cooks up field terminated HDMI cables originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 27 Jan 2009 12:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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27/01/2009 - Emo Labs concocts its own invisible speaker technology

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Emo Labs didn't stir up too much commotion while CES was going on, but apparently it did have a tiny presence in Vegas. The crew at Technologizer was able to listen to a sneak preview of the startup's Edge Motion technology, and if the demo is indicative of the end result, we could be onto something special. Much like NXT's SoundVu tech that seemed to fizzle out about as quickly as it hit the scene in 2005, this system creates a so-called invisible speaker by "using arrays of motors to wiggle the edges of a clear membrane." Gurus at the company are hoping to have it integrated into panels of TVs by the end of this year, though it'll be a bit longer before the same can happen on space-constrained laptops.

Emo Labs concocts its own invisible speaker technology originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 27 Jan 2009 01:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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26/01/2009 - THIEL SCS4 speaker review

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THIEL SCS4 speakers
We've had a pair of the THIEL SCS4 speakers pulling front-channel L/R duties in our setup for a month now, long enough to burn in and take full measure of them. During that time, a theme of "wonderfully unremarkable" kept turning up in the scribbled listening notes. That's no slight on these speakers; in fact, it's a very high compliment. Follow us past the break for our full rundown of THIEL's entry-level model.

Continue reading THIEL SCS4 speaker review

THIEL SCS4 speaker review originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 26 Jan 2009 11:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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26/01/2009 - Klipsch intros HD Theater 300 / 500 / 1000 5.1 speaker systems

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Klipsch isn't exactly known for hovering around in the bargain bin, but given the current worldwide economic situation, it's pumping out a new trio of 5.1-channel speaker systems that are quite affordable given the specs. Starting at the low-end, we've got the HD Theater 300 (shipping in April), which packs mid-range surrounds (2.5-inch woofers and a 0.75-inch MicroTractrix Horn-loaded textile tweeter in each) alongside a down-firing 6.5-inch subwoofer. Moving on up, there's the HD Theater 500 (shipping in March), which swaps in an aluminum dome tweeter in the surrounds and an 8-inch subbie. The top-end HD Theater 1000 (shipping next month) includes 8.6-inch tall surrounds that support wall mounting and a 10-inch earth shaker. As for prices? Try $399.99, $599.99 and $899.99 in order of mention.

Klipsch intros HD Theater 300 / 500 / 1000 5.1 speaker systems originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 26 Jan 2009 10:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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26/01/2009 - Sooloos delivers RackMount media server models at no extra cost

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So far as we can tell, this is the first major product introduction from Sooloos since it was acquired by Meridian Audio Limited in December 2008. For those who've already plunked down for one of the company's music management devices, you'd be better off holding your ears and scrolling down with haste. For everyone else, you should know that Sooloos's Source, Twinstore and Ensemble units will now be available in a 2U rackmount enclosure for -- get this -- no additional cost. The mountable iterations will include internal fans for heat dispersion and a front-panel power switch, though functionally everything will remain the same. Pays to wait sometimes, huh? The full release (prices included) is after the break.

Continue reading Sooloos delivers RackMount media server models at no extra cost

Sooloos delivers RackMount media server models at no extra cost originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 26 Jan 2009 08:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20/01/2009 - Polk snips the cord on PSWi225 portable wireless subwoofer

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Haven't you heard? Wireless subwoofers are all the rage right now, man. Polk Audio is following the lead of Infinity and a gaggle of others by introducing the PSWi225, a "portable" cord-free subwoofer that can be added in to any home theater / stereo setup with utmost ease. The earth-shaker supports RF wireless signal transmission and delivers a 40Hz to 180Hz frequency response from the floor-firing enclosure. The unit itself measures in at 12- x 13- x 12-inches and houses a rugged long-throw Dynamic Balance co-polymer driver with Butyl Rubber surround. Curiously, there's no mention of the speaker size, though we are told that an active crossover system is included for those who like to fiddle. Check it this March for $399 (MSRP).

Polk snips the cord on PSWi225 portable wireless subwoofer originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20/01/2009 - Monitor Audio jumps in the soundbar game with $800 R-One-HD

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Given the space constraints faced by so many individuals these days, it's no shock that more and more are turning to faux surround solutions to get their "multi-channel" fix. The latest outfit to dive headfirst into the soundbar arena is Monitor Audio, which is bringing its R-One-HD to market in black, silver and white finishes. Said bar includes left, center and right channels, with the L / R channels housing a 4-inch MMPII bass driver and a 1-inch C-CAM gold dome tweeter. Users are encouraged to add a Radius HD powered subwoofer to really fill things out, but who knows how much more your budget can stretch after dropping $800 for this thing alone.

[Via AudioJunkies]

Monitor Audio jumps in the soundbar game with $800 R-One-HD originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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17/01/2009 - Bowers & Wilkins officially unveils $2,200 Panorama soundbar

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Itching for brutal honesty? It's pretty difficult for us to get all riled up over a $2,200 soundbar, Bowers & Wilkins logo or not. Yeah, B&W swears that this thing is so good you won't even need a subwoofer for the best faux surround sound experience of your life, but for over two large, we can certainly think of a few alternatives. Nevertheless, the "groundbreaking" audio bar, which we caught in the wild at CES, has now been officially unwrapped, and there's a needlessly long-winded press releases telling us so just after the break. For those adamant that this will change their life, it should start shipping around March.

Continue reading Bowers & Wilkins officially unveils $2,200 Panorama soundbar

Bowers & Wilkins officially unveils $2,200 Panorama soundbar originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 16 Jan 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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16/01/2009 - DirecTV provides best HD view of Grand Slam tennis tournaments

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We tell ya, DirecTV has the cable carriers at their mercy when it comes to these Mix Channels. For tennis enthusiasts in particular, you'll be hard pressed to find a viewing setup superior to this. Starting on January 18th with the Australian Open, the company will be integrating ESPN2 and Tennis Channel feeds into its six-screens-in-one Mix Channel, and for the first time ever, it will all be in high-definition. Viewers will be able to see the network channel and five court channels on a single screen, with each screen providing its own audio stream. Better still, DirecTV subscribers can expect the same kind of coverage for the French Open, Wimbledon and US Open tournaments later this year. And don't be shocked to hear of something similar for the upcoming golf season -- we get the feeling DirecTV is really going for the jugular here.

DirecTV provides best HD view of Grand Slam tennis tournaments originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 16 Jan 2009 09:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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15/01/2009 - Tensilica proves Blu-ray audio decoding can be done on a single core

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Traditionally, Blu-ray decks have relied on multi-core chips to process and decode that succulent audio that tickles your eardrums, but Tensilica has a better idea. In an effort to shrink the amount of components within a BD deck and to offer up "significant cost savings and a simplified programming model," it has recently demonstrated DTS-HD Master Audio Lossless decoding on a single-core SoC. The outfit's HiFi 2 Audio DSP can handle codecs from both DTS and Dolby, and apparently it's already filtering into select players. Too bad you'll probably never know if your deck has one without rolling up your sleeves and breaking out the screwdriver.

Tensilica proves Blu-ray audio decoding can be done on a single core originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 15 Jan 2009 17:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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13/01/2009 - Europe To See Presidential Inuguration in HD

The upcoming US presidential inauguration will be broadcast in Europe in high definition for the first time ever following "unprecedented demand" from broadcasters.
Eurovision is to offer European broadcasters access to full HDTV coverage of the ceremony, Barack Obama's speech and motorcade beamed from cameras on location in Washington DC.

10/01/2009 - NIN crowd sources concert film with 400GB of raw HD footage

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NIN Lights in the Sky
When NIN was forced to abandon its film plans for Lights in the Sky, we thought the already-filmed parts were headed for the wrong can, but Trent Reznor has decided to break from the "take my ball and go home" attitude by putting the footage up online. Opening up a public domain wellspring for fans to create some great content, the 400GB of unedited HD data from three shows (Victoria, Portland and Sacramento) is available as a torrent. Don't fire up that download just yet -- Reznor warns that beyond the drive-crushing size of the content, this is totaly unproduced and not really the sort of thing for casual viewers seeking a finished product. For those of you with serious editing rigs and a yen for film production, clear off some space on the RAID and hit the link for torrent details.

NIN crowd sources concert film with 400GB of raw HD footage originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 22:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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09/01/2009 - THIEL adds HDMI and wireless to its zoet multiroom audio system

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THIEL zoet systemThe press release doesn't get too specific about details, but THIEL is already lining up upgrades to its IP-based, multiroom zoet audio system. Sometime in 2009 after the April launch of the zoet db1 system, expect to see HDMI (8 inputs, 2 outputs) and wireless connectivity making way onto the options sheet. Don't let these future upgrades keep you from picking up the first version, though, as they will be retrofittable to early adopters (for a fee, of course). Unfortunately, we can only guess what the upgrade pricing might be. This system is based around powered versions of THIEL's SCS4 (the SCS4D), so we'll make two guesses -- it will sound good, but it won't be cheap. Full press release after the break.

Continue reading THIEL adds HDMI and wireless to its zoet multiroom audio system

THIEL adds HDMI and wireless to its zoet multiroom audio system originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 12:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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08/01/2009 - THX throws its weight in behind Radiient for wireless audio

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Radiient and THX
Very few folks enjoy the installation of multichannel wired speaker setups, let alone the appearance of cables snaking through the living room. Radiient's UWB-based Roomcaster technology for sending audio bits to and fro might just gain a foothold thanks to its new partner, THX. That THX name is a kind of benchmark for quality and definitely resonates with consumers, and with the ability to deliver 8-channels of 24-bit uncompressed audio should make for happy users. Now if only something can be done about the high price of entry, this might have a chance at catching on.

THX throws its weight in behind Radiient for wireless audio originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 06:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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08/01/2009 - Four speaker Panasonic wireless sound system creates virtual 7.1 experience

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Forget making your existing multi-channel system wireless; why not just get a whole new one that's built from the ground-up to operate sans wires. The system consists of four wireless speaker poles with inbuilt subwoofers (or so they say...), which send audio over a 2.4GHz wave. Supposedly, you'll get a 7.1-channel experience from the setup, but you won't be able to confirm or deny that allegation till it ships this Spring.

Four speaker Panasonic wireless sound system creates virtual 7.1 experience originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 04:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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08/01/2009 - Panasonic intros a pair of new DVD theater in a box solutions

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Panasonic SC-PT770 DVD theater in a box
Even though Panasonic likes to rave about HD, it knows that DVD home theater in a box (HTIB) systems are very popular still, and has introduced the SC-PT770 and SC-PT670 to address the market desire. Sticking true to the company's goals of integration and ease of use, iPod integration is baked in, and the SC-PT770 ups the ante by bundling in the SH-FX70 Wireless Kit for Rear Speakers. On the eco-friendly front, the front and center channel drivers are fashioned out of bamboo, which will offset the 1,000-Watt amplification at least a little bit on your karmic scale.

Panasonic intros a pair of new DVD theater in a box solutions originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 01:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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08/01/2009 - Pioneer breaks out iPhone-friendly, multi-zone AV receivers

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No question, the little iPhone / iPod compatible bit is included just to stir up a buzz, but it's hard to say that the inclusion doesn't make Pioneer's latest line of AV receivers a touch more desirable than models past. Here at CES, the firm is delivering four new AVRs, all with "high resolution audio" and HDMI 1.3 repeaters. The higher-end VSX-919AH and VSX-1019AH models both feature Pioneer's proprietary Hybrid Amplifier Technology II (P.H.A.T.), Dolby TrueHD / DTS-HD decoding, 120-watts x 7, KURO Link and multi-zone pre-outs, while the latter unit steps it up with a Faroudja 1080p video scaler. Those with smaller budgets / appetites can opt for the 5.1-channel VSX-519V or VSX-819H (pictured above), which include 110-watts x 5, fewer ports and less awesome extras. The foursome will hit shelves in April for $200 to $500 depending on model; full rundown is after the break.

Continue reading Pioneer breaks out iPhone-friendly, multi-zone AV receivers

Pioneer breaks out iPhone-friendly, multi-zone AV receivers originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 21:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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07/01/2009 - Samsung delivers HT-BD7200 / HT-BD1250 Blu-ray HTIB systems, HT-BD8200 BD soundbar

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Samsung's comin' at us hot and heavy from the desert, and if those two BD players already got your ears perked up, here's a little more for your future home theater. Up first is the HT-BD8200 Blu-ray soundbar, which -- as the name implies -- is actually a soundbar with a Profile 2.0 Blu-ray player baked right in. The bundle also includes a wireless subwoofer and promises 5.1-like sound despite being just 2.6-inches deep. Moving on, we've got the 2.1-channel HT-BD2700 and 5.1-channel HT-BD1250 Blu-ray HTIB systems, which offer up 400- and 1,000-watts of power, respectively along with WiFi support. Per usual, dollars and ship dates remain a mystery, but the more we look at those glossy black coats, the harder we find it to be patient.

Samsung delivers HT-BD7200 / HT-BD1250 Blu-ray HTIB systems, HT-BD8200 BD soundbar originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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07/01/2009 - Pioneer's TAD shows off a new Blu-ray audio format at CES

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TAD and Sheffield Labs
Technical Audio Devices (TAD), a subsidiary of Pioneer, has a little something to show audiophiles that may lure them away from their CD transports yet -- a new 2-channel audio format for Blu-ray discs that it unapologetically claims "rivals 2-channel analog sound." We're not sure if that means reel-to-reel or vinyl is in the crosshairs, but the company is putting its apparently-unnamed format up for demo at CES. The demos are being hosted by none other than audiophile classic Sheffield Labs recording engineers Bill Schnee and Doug Sax, who have picked out some choice cuts to be played on pro-level TAD Compact Reference monitors and associated electronics; no word on if whiskey is part of the demo.

Pioneer's TAD shows off a new Blu-ray audio format at CES originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 04:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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07/01/2009 - Linksys by Cisco Wireless Home Audio system unveiled

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We knew that Cisco would be invading the home audio space in '09, but we didn't know it'd be so quickly (and under the Linksys name). Here at CES, the outfit has unveiled the admittedly complex Wireless Home Audio system, which utilizes Ethernet / 802.11n / DLNA in order to stream audio over multiple zones throughout the home. The kit is actually comprised of some very specific components, so let's not waste any time, eh? There's the Conductor DMC350 Wireless-N Digital Music Center, Director DMC250 Wireless-N Music Player with Integrated Amplifier, Player DMP100 Wireless-N Music Extender, Stereo Speaker Kit DSPK50, DMWR1000 Wireless-N Touchscreen Remote, iPod docking station and the DMRIR500 IR Remote. For details on the specific kits, which should go on sale this quarter for $300 and way up, give the read link a peek.

Linksys by Cisco Wireless Home Audio system unveiled originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 02:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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05/01/2009 - Fraunhofer IIS to push MPEG Surround as next big downloadable audio format

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Watch out, MP3 -- you've got a formidable opponent creeping up on you. All kidding aside (yes, we were kidding), Fraunhofer IIS is hoping that at least four people will turn from their MP3 / AAC addictions and embrace yet another one of its audio formats at CES, which is simply christened MPEG Surround. Harald Popp, head of the Multimedia Realtime Systems department at the company, has asserted that the firm believes that "MPEG Surround will become a major online distribution format when downloading music, movie and TV content," noting that it offers "the music industry a way to sell iPod-compatible surround content through the existing stereo download infrastructure." We suppose the multi-channel aspect is at least somewhat noteworthy, but we still see a hard road ahead for it to gain "global acceptance" in 2009.

Fraunhofer IIS to push MPEG Surround as next big downloadable audio format originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 17:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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05/01/2009 - Premier Mounts offers up fully-integrated motorized lift system

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If you're looking for a way to have a big screen flat-panel and keep things neat and tidy for the SO, Premier Mounts is about to become your new best friend. The outfit has just announced that it will be introducing a fully-integrated motorized lift system at CES, enabling buyers to hide away HDTVs in existing or customized cabinets. With just the touch of a button, owners can hide and reveal their flat-panel; the LIFT1 (single system) holds panels up to 52-inches and 180 pounds, while the LIFT2 (dual system) manages screens up to 58-inches and 360 pounds. 'Course, for $2,499.99 / $4,199.99 (respectively), maybe the eyesore isn't so intolerable after all.

Premier Mounts offers up fully-integrated motorized lift system originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 09:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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05/01/2009 - Bowers & Wilkins and Peter Gabriel push audiophile B&W Music Club

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Tired of buying those overly compressed MP3 files online are ya? If so, have a look at the new music service from Bowers & Wilkins. Said outfit, along with Peter Gabriel, is pushing the B&W Music Club, which is hailed as the subscription service for audiophiles. Essentially, those with incredibly discerning ears can pay an annual / monthly fee to have access to "one specially commissioned album each month, recorded in dedicated live sessions at Real World Studios near Bath in the UK." The albums are available in Apple Lossless or FLAC formats and provided without any DRM baked in. In an interesting twist, B&W is providing free studio time and mixing sessions for artists who'd like to have their tunes offered up, which could open up opportunities for little known musical geniuses to get exposure. Check the read link for all the fine print, but here's the tidbit you're really after: $39.95 for six months, or $59.95 for a year.

Bowers & Wilkins and Peter Gabriel push audiophile B&W Music Club originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 04 Jan 2009 19:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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04/01/2009 - Tritton showing off gaming soundbar, headsets at CES 2009

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Those Xtreme-loving audiophiles at Tritton are heading to CES next week and bringing with them a wireless 5.1 surround sound bar / subwoofer combo designed specifically with gamers in mind. Their presser touts how easily it connects to the Wii, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 in addition to an iPod, MP3 player, PC, and that's unfortunately all the information we've got for now -- no pics, release date or price in sight. Additionally, they're also showcasing new Bluetooth accessories and Dolby 5.1-equipped gaming headsets. Hopefully we'll be able to fill in the missing details in just a few days.

Tritton showing off gaming soundbar, headsets at CES 2009 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 04 Jan 2009 12:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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03/01/2009 - Australia's Seven, Nine and Ten not leaping to add new digital channels

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Australia's Seven, Nine and Ten -- the three free-to-air networks in the country -- are now free to launch new digital channels to supplement their current offerings, but on the whole, there's not much excitement about doing so. Thus far, the only one that has even announced plans to launch a new channel with distinct programming is Ten, which hopes to debut a 24-hour HD sports channel dubbed One. If everyone would follow suit, the commercial networks alone could offer a total of nine stations with unique programming. Sadly, the networks have known about this opportunity for two years now, but it seems to us that everyone might be waiting around for another to seriously approach the opportunity before they follow suit. Monkey see, monkey do, right?

Australia's Seven, Nine and Ten not leaping to add new digital channels originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 03 Jan 2009 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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02/01/2009 - Peachtree Audio showcasing first speakers at CES 2009

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Peachtree Audio had a small presence at CEDIA last year, but it's looking to really catch some ears at CES 2009. The company will be showcasing its very first speakers -- the DS4.5 -- in Vegas here in just a few days, which aim to please audiophile-grade computer users or those in need of pristine sounding "mini monitors." Each of the speakers contain a 4-inch woofer and a silk-dome tweeter, and they were designed to match cosmetically with the company's line of integrated amplifiers with built-in USB ports. Speaking of amps, the two speakers are set to be sold in a bundle with the Decco for around $1,199. These puppies better sound like solid gold for that -- just sayin'.

Peachtree Audio showcasing first speakers at CES 2009 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 02 Jan 2009 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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01/01/2009 - Gefen's CES bounty squealed about early

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Gefen knows all too well how easy it is for new wares to get lost in the shuffle at CES, so it's opting to disclose its freshest gear a few days beforehand. This year's show will see four new devices in particular, so we'll start from the top. The Digital Audio Decoder with Dolby will be used to combine older, analog-based audio systems with digital devices of today by converting 5.1 audio to L/R analog audio. Next, the Volume Controller is a completely elusive "fully automated solution which equalizes audio to maintain the same levels consistently." The 2x1 Digital Audio Switcher makes it easy to hook up two TOSlink cables to one AV receiver, while the 1:2 Digital Audio Splitter does the opposite by splitting a single TOSlink signal into two streams. The full spill is just after the break.

Continue reading Gefen's CES bounty squealed about early

Gefen's CES bounty squealed about early originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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30/12/2008 - PS Audio debuting world's first HRx disc player at CES

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Oh, brother -- yet another high resolution audio format to worry over. Just when you thought you could pick up Denon's forthcoming universal Blu-ray player and be done with it comes HRx. The format, which is hyped up by Reference Recordings and is literally high-res WAV files toasted onto DVD media, cannot be played back in traditional DVD / DVD-Audio decks. Instead, you'll need PS Audio's PerfectWave Transport Memory Player. Until now, folks (all three of them) have simply been ripping the files onto PCs or music servers for playback, but the item you see above will indeed handle CDs and HRx DVDs, the latter of which delivers 24-bit, 176kHz sound. There's no mention of a price or eventual release date, but something this specialized just can't be cheap. We mean, it just can't be.

PS Audio debuting world's first HRx disc player at CES originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 30 Dec 2008 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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21/12/2008 - SRS TruVolume debuts in Vizio's XVT HDTV and soundbar

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We should've seen this one coming, because whatever Dolby can do, SRS can do one better -- something like that. Anywho, SRS is debuting its own volume controlling technology today by way of Vizio's snazzy new 55-inch XVT HDTV and VSB210WS soundbar / wireless subwoofer kit. In SRS' words, the tech is an "advanced, intelligent volume control solution that delivers a remarkable TV viewing experience by eliminating irritating fluctuations in volume." Oh, and if you're not exactly looking to buy either of those products, don't be shocked to see this stuff flooding across Vizio's line in short order; Ken Lowe, the company's VP and co-founder has been quoted as saying that he believes "all of [Vizio's] TVs should have SRS TruVolume going forward." And we all know the VP gets what he wants.

SRS TruVolume debuts in Vizio's XVT HDTV and soundbar originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 21 Dec 2008 11:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19/12/2008 - Comcast adds E!, Toon and Travel Channel HD in Augusta, Georgia

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Augusta just picked up three from Comcast in late October, and now the famed Georgia town has another three to mount up on its wall. As the wave of expansion continues, Augusta has been struck with E! HD, Toon HD and Travel Channel HD. Any guesses where Comcast will strike next?

[Thanks, Caleb]

Comcast adds E!, Toon and Travel Channel HD in Augusta, Georgia originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19/12/2008 - AU Optronics delays construction of two LCD plants

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Man, what a difference a year few months makes. At the front end of 2008, panel makers the world over were boasting about big investments to expand production lines and live large on Malta. Now, it's tough to go a week without hearing of at least one plant closing. Take Taiwan's AU Optronics, for instance -- in February of this year, it pledged $9.3 billion to build a pair of LCD factories. Now, it's placing those lofty plans on hold, noting that construction on "two new LCD plants" would be delayed by at least six months. According to chairman KY Lee: "One has to use the brakes and slow down a bit on a downhill path." A curious analogy, but we suppose it works.

AU Optronics delays construction of two LCD plants originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19/12/2008 - Australia's iiNet hits 85Mbps in VDSL2 trials, could bring HDTV / internet to apartments

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iiNet, which is based in Western Australia, has reportedly achieved download speeds topping out at 85Mbps and upload rates of around 47Mbps in field trials held in Perth. The live VDSL2 trials are being used to determine the feasibility of eventually wiring up multi-dwelling units with an array of services. In theory, the service could bring high-speed internet, digital phone and HDTV to apartment complexes via a single wire, much like AT&T's U-verse and Verizon's FiOS suites in America. Regrettably, there's no mention of when this will move beyond the testing phase and into the for sale stage, but as always, here's hoping for the answer to be sooner rather than later.

Australia's iiNet hits 85Mbps in VDSL2 trials, could bring HDTV / internet to apartments originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 21:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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18/12/2008 - Klipsch's Icon V speakers get tested, deliver on movies and gaming

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Klipsch Icon V speakers
The Klipsch Icon V speakers were created in cooperation with Best Buy, so of course the big blue and yellow box has them on its shelves, but Audioholics put them to the test to see how they fared in a more real-world setting, away from the car stereos and boomboxes. The review was pretty favorable overall -- in home, the speakers pumped out a lively sound that was a treat for movies and games, but the the horn-loaded tweeters plus a lean midrange weren't exactly a ticket to sonic bliss when listening to music at louder volumes. Still, build quality was solid, and at least you can listen to these in an everyday store (you do stop by Best Buy every day, right?), so let your own ears be the judge. Just make sure that what jumps off the shelves as "detailed and extended" doesn't wind up "screechy and fatiguing" to you in the long run.

Klipsch's Icon V speakers get tested, deliver on movies and gaming originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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16/12/2008 - How-to guide breaks down 7.1-channel audio setup procedure

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Blu-ray player? Check. An AV receiver? Check. Loads of cables? Check. Knowledge of how to hook everything up for maximum impact? Uh, not so much. BigPictureBigSound has hosted up a nice how-to guide for making the most of the multi-channel audio that's just waiting to ooze out of your Blu-ray player. The writeup covers both HDMI and analog approaches, and it breaks it down in five easy-to-digest steps so that you don't get all overwhelmed. Go 'head, give it a look -- it's not that difficult, we promise.

How-to guide breaks down 7.1-channel audio setup procedure originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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13/12/2008 - TWC now handing out tuning adapters in Austin, Texas

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We knew that Time Warner Cable was allowing customers in various regions around the country to pre-order their tuning adapter, and tonight we've received the first report of delivery. For those out of the loop, these free adapters enable CableCARD users to tune into any channel that's delivered via switched digital video (SDV); without one, your current TiVo (for example) won't ever be able to see any channel beamed out with the new technology. The lucky locale is Austin, Texas, but we get the idea that other places should be seeing them soon. Give your local TWC office a call, and do report back (bonus points for images) if you've found that your city now has 'em as well. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family]

[Thanks, Andy]

TWC now handing out tuning adapters in Austin, Texas originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 12 Dec 2008 21:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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13/12/2008 - IOSONO installs first 308-channel surround system in the US

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Remember that patently insane IOSONO holographic audio system that was demonstrated last month? The very first one has been installed in the US of A. As part of the multi-million dollar renovation of the Museum of Tolerance / Simon Wiesenthal Center in Los Angeles, a 308-channel IOSONO sound system was installed in the Peltz Theater. According to Electrosonic project manager Steve Calver, said system is the "crown jewel" of the place, as it adds "308 independent audio channels and five subwoofer channels, which are entirely hidden within the architectural elements of the theater." The purpose? To distribute sound as perfectly as possible to every seat in the house. Additionally, HD video capabilities were added courtesy of a Christie high-def projector, and there was even an undisclosed Blu-ray player tossed in for good measure. So, when's the next showing of, um, anything at this place?

IOSONO installs first 308-channel surround system in the US originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 12 Dec 2008 21:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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09/12/2008 - THIEL SCS4 speakers unboxed

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THIEL SCS4 speakers
Like some kind of post-Diwali, pre-Christmas gift-delivering sprite, UPS dropped off a pair of boxes from THIEL at Engadget HD. We'll be putting a pair of dark cherry SCS4 speakers through their paces over the coming weeks, but we wanted to share some preview photos with you before we dive into the audition. THIEL has been a longtime fixture in the audio high end, stretching way back to the days of two-channel, and even though the SCS4s carry the smallest price tag in the company's lineup ($990 each), they've definitely got high end pedigree. Our initial impressions turn up a solid front-ported cabinet (even if it's without THIEL's familiar sloping baffle) with top-notch veneer, perforated metal grilles held in place by magnets, a coincident driver assembly (aluminum dome 6.5-inch mid-woofer and 1-inch tweeter) for true point-source radiation and deluxe all-metal binding posts. Oh yeah, they sound nice, too -- but we're not saying more on that front until we've lived with them for a few weeks. Pics after the break.

THIEL SCS4 speakers unboxed originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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09/12/2008 - Microtune's in-car TV tuner snags Days of our Lives at 125mph

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Say you're James Bond (or similar), and for once, you're actually not the one behind the wheel. While you're being chauffeured around the elegant Italian countryside at breakneck speeds, you'll probably want a little live TV entertainment from the back seat. Enter Microtune's MicroTuner, a "first-of-its-kind tuner chip for high-speed in-car TV." Put simply, the MT2067 is built to provide "superior, stable TV reception for passengers in vehicles traveling at top speeds along the autobahn or highway," and supposedly, it can retain a clear signal whilst motoring at 125 miles-per-hour. Better still, it's supports worldwide analog / digital terrestrial standards including NTSC, PAL, SECAM, DVB-T, DVB-H, ISDB-T, DTMB, ATSC and ATSC-M/H. $20 says this comes integrated into next year's TV-infused line of Bentley motorcars.

Microtune's in-car TV tuner snags Days of our Lives at 125mph originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 11:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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09/12/2008 - Canton refreshes its GLE speaker lineup

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Canton GLE 490 speakers
Super exotic, top-of-the-line speakers offered up by manufacturers are certainly fun to dream about, but most of us will lay claim to more value-conscious models. Canton knows this, and has rolled out new technology to its GLE line of speakers. The new models got rolled out at CEDIA, but now Canton has shared the official update details. Most significant are improvements in the silk dome tweeter -- it sounds like a completely new unit -- but the aluminum midrange and woofer drivers have seen refinements as well, and even the front baffles have been given a curved profile for improved performance. Six speakers across the line have received attention, from the $1400 (per pair) floorstanding GLE 490 right down to the $529 wall-mountable GLE 410.

Canton refreshes its GLE speaker lineup originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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08/12/2008 - Audioengine puts wires out of work with AW2 wireless iPod adapter

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Earlier this year, Audioengine rolled out the practically universal AW1 wireless audio adapter, and we certainly enjoyed our time with it. Now, the outfit is making the anticipated leap to iPod-dom with the sequentially named AW2. Put simply, the kit contains two main pieces: a transmitter that plugs easily into your dock-connecting 'Pod and a USB-based receiver with a 3.5-millimeter auxiliary jack. The system operates on the WiFi frequency band and promises no dropouts, static or interference from CB radios whizzing by your domicile. We should mention, however, that you'll pay quite dearly for the privilege of beaming your tunes sans cables, though it's available now for those who don't mind at $169.

[Via GadgetReview]

Audioengine puts wires out of work with AW2 wireless iPod adapter originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 08:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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07/12/2008 - PMP docks keep things afloat as other audio gear sinks

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RadioRaft
Sure, it's impossible to find anything electric that hasn't been graced with an iPod dock anymore, but according to NPD Group, unit sales of MP3-docking speaker systems -- a catch-all that includes iPod-dockified clock radios and tabletop radios -- actually rose while other audio gear suffered. From our HT-centric viewpoint, sales of HTIB systems came up 16-percent short while AV receivers slid 8-percent. But the loss-leader by a long way was the compact stereo segment -- the 36-percent setback on sales goes to show that when people are concerned about hanging on to their jobs, outfitting the cubicle or office with new gear moves way down the priority list.

[Image courtesy PodcastingNews]

PMP docks keep things afloat as other audio gear sinks originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 07 Dec 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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05/12/2008 - Denon prices DVD-A1UDCI universal Blu-ray player for US market: $3,800

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So, there's good news and bad news. The good? Denon's US version of the DVD-A1UD (coined the DVD-A1UDCI) is priced considerably lower than the yen-to-dollar conversion led us to believe. The bad news? It's still $3,800. For those that that missed it, Denon's calling this the world's first universal Blu-ray player, and folks looking for a premiere unit to handle Blu-ray, DVD, SACD and DVD-Audio can satisfy their every desire in February 2009. Better hope that Christmas bonus comes through.

Denon prices DVD-A1UDCI universal Blu-ray player for US market: $3,800 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 05 Dec 2008 15:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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05/12/2008 - NetBlender's DoStudio 1.6 Blu-ray authoring solution includes BD Touch support

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Back in February, we saw NetBlender blend in Blu-ray support to its DoStudio authoring software. Now, version 1.6 is packing even more BD-related goodness, and it's BD Touch in particular that we're intrigued by. The latest flavor of DoStudio includes expanded capabilities such as Slideshows, Dolby TrueHD support, and BD Touch integration, not to mention a number of workflow enhancements including copy / paste, enhanced asset validation, printable reports, etc. As for BD Touch, this software now gives production outfits (or just entrepreneurial individuals) the ability to bake in support for iPhone control when the disc is played back in a PlayStation 3. The application is available for a $395 monthly rental fee, $2,495 for a 1-year license or $6,995 for a permanent license.

[Thanks, Jason]

NetBlender's DoStudio 1.6 Blu-ray authoring solution includes BD Touch support originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 04 Dec 2008 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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04/12/2008 - HTIB shootout picks the best at a variety of price points

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We've already seen one speaker guide pop up this fall / winter, but for those not so keen on piecing together a multi-channel setup themselves, PC World has a solid alternative. It has taken a cold, hard look at seven home-theater-in-box (HTIB) setups ranging from $500 to $3,000 and picked the best one at each price level. We won't spoil anything here, but if you've been looking for some assistance in choosing from the plethora of options out there, this ain't a bad place to get educated.

HTIB shootout picks the best at a variety of price points originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 04 Dec 2008 07:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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03/12/2008 - Buy a Toshiba XV500 HDTV, get a NB100 netbook free (in Australia)

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What's up with Australia and its promotions? Last year, the big deal was Toshiba giving away free HD DVD players with an LCD HDTV purchase and Sony tossing in a PS3 with select 1080p BRAVIAs. This year, we've got Panasonic throwing in a Wii with an HDTV and Toshiba handing out netbooks. You heard right -- for Aussies who plunk down for an XV500 series HDTV at 37-, 42- or 46-inches between now and January 15, 2009, they'll also receive an 8.9-inch NB100 (AU$799) netbook free of charge. Of course, that's "while supplies last," so we'd get on this pronto if you're even mildly interested. As for we Americans? We're taking home free movies with pricey Blu-ray decks. Awesome.

[Via SmartHouse]

Buy a Toshiba XV500 HDTV, get a NB100 netbook free (in Australia) originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 02:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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02/12/2008 - Bel Canto's USB Link 24/96 converts USB audio to S/PDIF

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Wait just a second there, vaquero. We know you're invigorated, but you should probably attempt to digest the price tag here before blowing a gasket in excitement. Bel Canto -- not known for trickling out low-end gear -- has just introduced the $495 USB Link 24/96, which presumably does an impeccable job at converting high quality USB audio (up to 24-bits and 96kHz) to S/PDIF via a single 75-ohm BNC cable. The unit works natively in both Windows and OS X, comes bundled with a Stereovox XV2 BNC / BNC S/PDIF cable (with RCA adapter) and gets all the juice it needs from your powered USB socket. Now, if only five unclaimed bills weren't so difficult to obtain...

Bel Canto's USB Link 24/96 converts USB audio to S/PDIF originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 09:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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30/11/2008 - Sooloos intros $7,900 Ensemble music management system

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Not much has changed about the 17-inch Sooloos Control:One touchpanel you see above, but what is different about the newly announced Ensemble System is the lowered barrier to entry. Sure, the kit still demands a stuff $7,900, but that nets you the aforementioned screen and the combined storage / playback Ensemble server. In other words, this neat little package includes everything you need to digitize your CD collection and integrate it into your current home entertainment setup. The server itself includes an optical drive and USB port for importing tunes, 1TB of storage space and compatibility with other control systems including Crestron remotes and Apple's iPod touch / iPhone. Full release is after the break.

Continue reading Sooloos intros $7,900 Ensemble music management system

Sooloos intros $7,900 Ensemble music management system originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 29 Nov 2008 18:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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28/11/2008 - Pioneer's pricey BDP-LX71 Blu-ray deck reviewed: great, mate

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Don't freak out, Americans -- you haven't seen Pioneer's BDP-LX71 hanging around at your favorite A/V store for one simple reason: it caters to the European / Australian crowd. And with an MSRP of AU$1,299, it obviously caters to the affluent, too. The Aussies over at CNET's AU branch were able to get ahold of the spectacularly shiny deck, and while they admired the lovely picture and sound quality, styling and selection of ports, they couldn't easily overlook the elephantine price tag, lack of Profile 2.0 and omission of internal DTS-HD decoding. Additionally, the slow loading speed put more of a damper on things, but all of those knocks still didn't sway critics from recommending it for those with the cash. For everyone else, we'd probably definitely look elsewhere.

Pioneer's pricey BDP-LX71 Blu-ray deck reviewed: great, mate originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 27 Nov 2008 19:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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21/11/2008 - Zoran's New Processors Spell Thinner HDTVs

HDTVs may seem wafer thin already but don't expect the drive for even slimmer models to stop anytime soon.
The Zoran Corporation has just announced a pair of new HDTV processors that should help set manufacturers shave a tad more off their future sets.

20/11/2008 - Kogan intros AU$349 Profile 1.1 Blu-ray player for Australia

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Well, would you have a look at this. Out of seemingly nowhere, Aussies have been shown a remarkably affordable option for diving into the deep, crystal clear world of Blu-ray. Kogan Technologies is just 24 hours away from releasing its apparently unnamed Profile 1.1 Blu-ray player in the aforesaid continent / country, and with it will come 1080p output, an HDMI 1.3 port, DVD upconversion and Dolby TrueHD / DTS-HD decoding. The online-only e-tailer is taking orders for the unit as we speak, and for just AU$349 (that's $218 in greenbacks), we can definitely see it moving quite a few units.

[Via ITWire]

Kogan intros AU$349 Profile 1.1 Blu-ray player for Australia originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 20 Nov 2008 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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17/11/2008 - DTS posts profitable quarter, expects bright future thanks to Blu-ray
There aren't too many firms out there posting awesome Q3 reports, but DTS is one of the rare exceptions. Recently, the firm reported a net income of $2 million on revenues of $14 million, though $1.6 million of those revenues were in the form of royalties. CEO Jon Kirchner was quoted as saying that "overall, we remain cautious about the near-term industry outlook, but we continue to believe in the attractive long-term prospects for the Blu-ray format and for our business." Guess that's assuming Blu-ray adoption picks up in Q4 and beyond, huh?

DTS posts profitable quarter, expects bright future thanks to Blu-ray originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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17/11/2008 - Foxtel offers up free iQ DVR for 12 months

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It's no iQ2, but it's free, and free is hard to complain with. Australians teetering on the fence about buying into pay-TV from Foxtel have a little more incentive thanks to a fresh offer from the company. For folks who sign up, they'll receive a free iQ DVR for a full 12 months, and better still, installation will also be free. We're actually a bit fuzzy on whether this deal is in effect now or starting in 2009, but it can't hurt to call and plead, right?

Foxtel offers up free iQ DVR for 12 months originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 09:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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10/11/2008 - NuVo Technologies beefs up integration with Life|ware

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NuVo Technologies and Exceptional Innovation have apparently found it within their hearts to team up in order to provide better integration between wares; after all, there's at least a decent chance that anyone with a remarkable home automation system is using kit from both of these firms. Starting now, NuVo Grand Concerto multi-room audio Control Pads now can also control Life|ware home automation scenes, meaning that Control Pads can now dictate Life|ware-connected lighting, shades, climate, security, etc. What's it take to bring the couple together? A $399 NuVoNet Adapter (NV-NNA) and Life|ware's Visual Project configuration tool, both of which are available now. Full release is after the break.

Continue reading NuVo Technologies beefs up integration with Life|ware

NuVo Technologies beefs up integration with Life|ware originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 11:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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09/11/2008 - Speaker buying guide points out the top seven in each class

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We can't say we've personally listened to each set of speakers recommended by Sound & Vision in its mammoth speaker buyer's guide, but the well traveled author makes a good case for believing in him. If you've been toying with the idea of picking up a new multi-channel and / or stereo setup, this is a fantastic way to get straight to the short list. You'll find the top seven speakers / systems in four major categories -- 5.1, compact, subwoofer and two-channel -- covering different price points to fit your budget. No spoilers here -- dig into the read link and have a listen, er, look.

Speaker buying guide points out the top seven in each class originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 09 Nov 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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07/11/2008 - SpeakerCraft introduces surface mount Sound Pillows

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In-wall drivers are nice, sure, but what if you're not really looking to butcher your wall just to get some sound up there? Enter SpeakerCraft's Sound Pillows, a rather brilliantly designed speaker that can be installed in standard drywall via a "dog frame" or into a junction box if desired. Rather than having to wire things permanently, the Pillows simply snap into the wall plate where it's secured with two push-in tabs. Obviously, this approach also keeps your options open for swapping speakers out or taking them with you when you relocate. Mum's the word on pricing, but you can probably get a good idea by contacting your local dealer.

SpeakerCraft introduces surface mount Sound Pillows originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 20:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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05/11/2008 - IOSONO showcases 380-speaker holographic audio solution

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We've seen some pretty intense multi-channel audio rigs, but 380 speakers? At the SMPTE 2008 Tech Conference and Expo in Hollywood, IOSONO introduced its holographic audio solution for cinemas -- a fitting complement to the bevy of 3D films just around the bend. Reportedly, the system can be adjusted on a per-room basis and expanded between 200 and 500 drivers; the location of each speaker is "measured with a laser and used to calibrate the exhibition player software." The drivers are arranged in three rows, with the top and bottom being woofers and the middle consisting of tweeters. As you'd expect, the solution envelops the auditorium completely, and up to 32 unique sound objects can be placed within the 3D virtual sound space. There's no mention of how costly this will be to theaters (or exceptionally weather home theater owners), but we can only hope to hear it in more cinemas shortly.

IOSONO showcases 380-speaker holographic audio solution originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 07:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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05/11/2008 - Time Warner Cable adds FOX News HD, MGM HD in Austin / Waco, TX

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Time Warner Cable subscribers in Austin / Waco, Texas have long complained about getting the proverbial shaft on HD channels, and if you take a gander at lineups in the other major cities in the Lone Star state, it's easy to see the root of their frustrations. That being said, we can tell you that a lowly twosome is headed down the pike, with FOX News HD available right now and MGM HD coming on December 1st. Unfortunately, MGM is essentially replacing the soon-to-vanish MOJO HD, so you're left with a net gain of one. Sad, we know. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family]

[Thanks, Chad]

Time Warner Cable adds FOX News HD, MGM HD in Austin / Waco, TX originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 04:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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04/11/2008 - Carbon nanotubes could be used in film-like flat speakers

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Seriously, is there anything carbon nanotubes can't do? We've got shock absorbers, flexible displays, atypically small eating utensils and now, film-like speakers. For times when NXT flat drivers simply aren't thin enough, a team of Chinese researchers have reportedly found a way to create sound from a thin sheet of carbon nanotubes. The film, which could be stretched and placed on PMPs, HDTVs or even clothing, can generate sound when "zapped with a varying electric current." Great, the perfect recipe for a new wave of Milli Vanilli copycats. A video of the tech can be seen after the jump.

[Via Physorg]

Continue reading Carbon nanotubes could be used in film-like flat speakers

Carbon nanotubes could be used in film-like flat speakers originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 03 Nov 2008 23:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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28/10/2008 - Comcast adds FX, FOX News and SPEED HD in Augusta, Georgia

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With the weather growing a bit too chilly for golf in Augusta, wouldn't you say it's about time you stayed in for the night and caught some HDTV? Comcast sure thinks so, evidenced by the fresh trio of high-def channels that it beamed up to the aforesaid region over the weekend. As of now, Augusta-area subscribers can check out FOX News Channel HD, SPEED HD and FX HD, which ought to keep you occupied for at least a week or two.

[Thanks, Caleb]

Engadget HDComcast adds FX, FOX News and SPEED HD in Augusta, Georgia originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 08:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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28/10/2008 - Australia's Network Ten to launch 24-hour HD sports channel in 2009

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Australia's Channel Ten has been known to snag some pretty enticing sporting events in the past, but all that will pale in comparison to a new channel launching next year. Yes, Aussies -- in mere months, you'll have the pleasure of enjoying a free-to-air 24-hour sports channel in glorious high-definition. For those not paying attention, you should also know that Ten has thrown down winning bids to show US NBA basketball, US Major League Baseball and the US Open golf tournament (among other events). There's no set time frame for launch outside of sometime in '09, but worst case scenario, you've got just over 13 months to wait.

Engadget HDAustralia's Network Ten to launch 24-hour HD sports channel in 2009 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 00:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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24/10/2008 - Embedded Automation's mPanel Review

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mPanel In-wall touch screen.
We just love the idea of having a connected home where every device in our house -- you know, like the HDTV -- is integrated together. Unfortunately for the most part, the connected home is financially out of our reach -- as it is for most Americans. Affordability is one of the reasons why we've keep our eye on Embedded Automation and its new mPanel in particular. While most 7-inch in-wall touch panels cost at least $3,000 (some as much as $7,000!), the new mPanel hit the streets last week at $999. This might not seem cheap in the world of netbooks and $200 Blu-ray players that we usually cover at Engadget, but it does bring a cool gadget into our price range. The mPanel seems like even more of a deal when you consider that it is a full-on Windows CE touch screen computer that does POE (Power over Ethernet) and even has a built in amplifier for audio. Of course it is only one of many pieces necessary to bring our dreams of a connected home to reality, but one we definitely enjoyed putting through the paces.

Gallery: mPanel Review

Home screenWithout the face plateThe connections

Continue reading Embedded Automation's mPanel Review

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23/10/2008 - Paradigm Phantom Cinema Gaming speaker system review

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Paradigm Phantom Cinema Gaming speaker system review
Paradigm has a long history of offering speakers that provide a big slice of audiophile-approved sound at reasonable prices. Its speakers aren't the cheapest and they can't be found at every big-box retailer, but chances are that if you seek out a Paradigm dealer, you'll be rewarded with some great-sounding gear at a fair price. Follow us past the break to see how much of the high-end Paradigm delivers with its latest entry-level offering, the Cinema Gaming speaker system.

Continue reading Paradigm Phantom Cinema Gaming speaker system review

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23/10/2008 - SpeakerCraft introduces outdoor OG speakers for pool owners, lawn mowers

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The speaker-in-a-rock was hot stuff back in the day, but now, it's pretty played out. SpeakerCraft has applied its jungle influences to the OG outdoor speaker, which is modeled after an exterior landscape lighting fixture and can be hidden away in flower beds, under bushes or in between statues of Tiki Men. The unit itself includes a 3-inch full-range aluminum cone driver, but it seems as if you'll need to phone up your nearest SpeakerCraft dealer for pricing information. Full release after the break.

Continue reading SpeakerCraft introduces outdoor OG speakers for pool owners, lawn mowers

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17/10/2008 - Audiovox exits the LCD TV business that no one knew it was in

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Okay, so we're kidding. Sort of. Believe it or not, Audiovox actually was a very minor player in the LCD flat-panel industry, but no more. In an effort to counter "what is shaping up to be the worst economy in decades," CEO Patrick Lavelle decided to pull the plug on the LCD business and show 8% of his employees the way out for the final time. It's all good for the company though, because every worked-to-the-bone parent in America will be snapping up one of its Homebase Digital Message Centers.
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13/10/2008 - Bang & Olufsen's BeoSound 5 controller in the wild?

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We're still retaining a slight bit of disbelief here, but the long teased BeoSound 5 controller could be awfully close to a formal release. Judging by scads of cryptic (and probably diluted) hints and just two images (one above, one after the break), we're led to believe that this here device will sit atop one's table and enable users to flip through multimedia and play back tunes through their Bang & Olufsen gear. The sell, obviously, is the design. Truth be told, this thing looks like something a few years ahead of its time at first glance, but considering just how ridiculous (that's a compliment, we'll have you know) the BeoCenter 2 looked over four years ago, we'd say this is just par for the course with B&O. Here's hoping some more concrete information flows forth shortly.

[Thanks, JK]

Continue reading Bang & Olufsen's BeoSound 5 controller in the wild?

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12/10/2008 - KRK Systems reveals Ferrari Yellow Rokit5 G2CB studio monitors

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KRK Systems is introducing a new set of studio monitors that can only be taken seriously by hipsters, youngsters and folks infatuated with loud colors. Available exclusively at Guitar Center, the 6-inch Rokit5 G2CB features a high-gloss yellow cabinet along with the traditional yellow Kevlar cone, and otherwise boasts the same specifications as the Rokit G2 (save for some "enhanced voicing"). The Special Edition Rokit Studio Monitors can be had right now at GC locations for $299 per monitor.
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06/10/2008 - TEAC launches 32-inch LCDV3253HD LCD TV / DVD combo in Australia

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The word "TEAC" doesn't generally bring about images of dancing HDTVs under a moonlit sky, but that very company is rolling out its own set over in Australia. The 32-inch LCDV3253HD arrives toting a built-in digital TV tuner (or analog tuner, depending on sales region), a modular DVD player, three HDMI ports and bottom-mounted speakers. It's available now for $1,299 in any color you like, so long as it's black.
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03/10/2008 - Yamaha introduces four mini audio systems, all with iPod docks

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We sure hope you're an iPod owner if you're looking seriously at any one of Yamaha's latest mini audio systems, 'cause every last one of them packs an inbuilt dock front and center. Kicking things off is the MCS-1330, which features 60-watts of amplification, an integrated CD player, two speakers and a few other inputs for non-Appleites. The MCR-330 and MCR-230 only seem to differ in connection type, with both units packing 40 total watts of power and a USB socket. The CRX-430 finishes things off with 50-watts of RMS juice and a built-in CD player. The whole lot should ship by early December and will range in price from around $300 (CRX-430) to $1,233 (MCS-1330).

[Via TechDigest]
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01/10/2008 - Gefen's Digital Audio Decoder splits out the audio from your HDMI stream

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Gefen logoLet's say the state of your HDMI setup is a divided along video and audio sides, with your audio equipment lacking enough HDMI connections (if you have any at all). In its never-ending drive to cover every conceivable signal switching/splitting/converting/extending need, Gefen has a Digital Audio Decoder little black box just for you -- it lets you send in one HDMI audio+video signal, and spits out audio on HDMI and analog connections out back, along with a HDMI video passthrough. If the thought of trusting your audio decoding to Gefen is too much to bear, might we suggest you just try enjoying a movie or two before putting up all your audiophile-approved but HDMI-less gear up on eBay?
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30/09/2008 - Hauppauge adds 5.1 support to the HD-PVR

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Hauppauge HD-PVR
One of the most exciting products of 2008 is the Hauppauge HD-PVR, because it enables you to record any HD source you want by exploiting the analog hole. The problem up until now has been that while you can already enjoy DirecTV HD on your SageTV setup in all its glory, you've had to settle for stereo audio. That is finally changing as Hauppauge as the latest beta driver now adds support Dolby Digital 5.1 (AC3), and AAC to top it off. But even if surround sound isn't your thing, you may still want to check out this update as it also resolves a few other miscellaneous issues that might be bothering you.
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26/09/2008 - ZVOX's Z-Base 550, for when even two speaker cabinets are too many

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ZVOX415 soundbar
ZVOX is bringing a new Z-Base 550 model (ZVOX415 pictured) to its lineup of one-box home theater systems that fit oh-so-nicely right underneath your new flatscreen. The Z-Base 550 is meant to compliment 32-inch to 47-inch displays with its combination of a 60-Watt amplifier, 3x2-inch primaries, 5.25-inch subwoofer and PhaseCue virtual surround processing in one chassis so all you have to do is supply an audio signal and enjoy. Personally, we'll stick with old-fashioned discrete speakers littered throughout the room; but if your setup demands a more streamlined approach, you've got until November to save up $500 for a 30-day trial with the Z-Base 550.
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24/09/2008 - Elton John's The Red Piano goes Blu in October

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As more and more music releases head to Blu-ray, we've got one more coming to stores next month. Elton John's The Red Piano collection will hit stores on October 28th and will include a single Blu-ray Disc and two audio-only CDs. The discs will include 14 song performances from the Red Piano show and a documentary about the making of The Red Piano show. Fans can check it shortly for $29.99 (MSRP).
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20/09/2008 - Inlet Technologies and NetBlender team up to help smaller studios go Blu

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Inlet Technologies and NetBlenderIt looks like Sonic Solutions isn't the only one bringing new Blu-ray production tools to market -- plenty of smaller studios just want an easier way to jump into Blu-ray titles, not necessarily flashier BD-J features. To answer that need, Inlet Technologies has taken its Fathom encoding platform and partnered with NetBlender's DoStudio authoring software to put smaller studios on the Blu-ray bandwagon. So the tools are all lined up; if only something could be done about player prices, we might see some critical mass building up behind Blu-ray.
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18/09/2008 - Soundmatters foxL Bluetooth speaker gets reviewed

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For audiophiles, it's a perpetual challenge to find a portable speaker that carries even half the tunes of your assuredly expensive towers at home. Soundmatters has attempted to halt your looking, however, with the recently-unveiled foxL. This portable speaker, which is also available in an entirely-more-delectable Bluetooth flavor, was recently put to the test by Sound & Vision, and the reviewer came away more than impressed. Put simply, no system this small -- at least in the critic's mind -- ever came close to "sounding this good." In testing, he found that the frequency response of the foxL "looked like that of a well-engineered, $2,000-per-pair bookshelf speaker," and honestly, when the biggest complaint is that it can get too loud for the average hotel room, you pretty much know you've got a winner on your hands.
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16/09/2008 - Sony introduces HT-FS1 2.1 speaker system

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Remember that HT-CT100 soundbar / subwoofer combo? Alright -- add in a pair of satellites, deduct the soundbar, and you've got yourself the HT-FS1. This new 2.1-channel system packs a total output of 200-watts and includes a built-in AM / FM tuner, HDMI repeater (three in / one out), three optical inputs and an analog audio port. Word on the street has a $299 price tag on this Autumn-bound set (in Europe, at least), though there's no telling if or when it'll head stateside.
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15/09/2008 - Universal Music Group's Blu-ray schedule starts with The Police: Certifiable concert album

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Universal Music Group's longtime support of the Blu-ray format finally gets some teeth November 24, when The Police: Certifiable, a live set recorded in Buenos Aires, hits the shelves. To draw attention to its 25 releases scheduled for the rest of this year (and 20 more due in January), Music Week says it and other format backers are sponsoring a Music on Blu-ray event September 25 in London to get the ball rolling. 109 minutes of Sting & friends celebrating their 30th anniversary? We're there, again.

[Image courtesy of Wikipedia]
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07/09/2008 - NuVo Technologies CEDIA 2008 booth tour

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Generally speaking, we've always found NuVo Technologies' products a tad too pricey for what they are, but who are we to think for everyone, right? All of its mainstream gear was in attendance, from the NV-M3 music server to the Essentia E6G to the all new Renovia. Give the whole fam a look in the gallery just below.

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06/09/2008 - AudioQuest's Series 10 HDMI cable takes 1080p 115-feet with no extender

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Taking your HDMI signals a few hundred feet isn't a problem if you're kosher with dropped a few Benjamins on an extender, but AudioQuest has a better idea -- just make a cable that can take said signals further. The Series 10 HDMI cable is making its grand entrance at CEDIA this year, and thanks to some fancy Advanced Critical Twist Geometry and a proprietary conductor alloy, it can pipe 1080p content up to 35-meters (115-feet) from the source "virtually error-free." Pricing and availability weren't mentioned, but considering how much you'll save by not having to buy an extender, we'd expect these strands to be mighty pricey. Full release after the break.

Continue reading AudioQuest's Series 10 HDMI cable takes 1080p 115-feet with no extender

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05/09/2008 - Hands-on with the THX-certified QuietHome door

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Here she is: the queen of CEDIA 2008. The first construction material to ever wear the oh-so-coveted THX certification badge. We're not even close to kidding folks -- the Quiet Solutions (formerly known as Serious Materials, evidently) reps were totally gung ho about this $1,495 to $2,495 door, and we just couldn't walk by without giving you a look at what a THX-certified door, um, looks like. Notice the gorgeous brass handles, sturdy (and we mean sturdy) construction and the word "sucker" lightly printed on the rear. Just kidding, we know there's a time and place for this and all, but we couldn't help but chuckle. Oh, and don't run into this thing while perusing the gallery below --face-first into a 220-pound object is no fun.

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04/09/2008 - Cambridge Audio intros DacMagic upsampling digital-to-analog converter

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You've got to love the Brits, don't you? According to Cambridge Audio, this is a "digital to analogue converter," which we can't help but read aloud with a charming accent. At any rate, the same company who just announced its plans to enter the Blu-ray realm is also looking out for its primary crowd: the audiophiles. The October-bound DacMagic upsampling DAC is billed as a relatively affordable way to upgrade any PC, network music device, gaming console, etc. to "truly high-end sound quality." The £199.95 ($353) device boasts a variety of connections including S/PDIF, Toslink and USB along with "Adapted Time Filtering (ATF) upsampling technology developed in conjunction with Anagram Technologies of Switzerland which converts 16-24 bit audio data to 24 bit/192kHz." For more technical goop, jump on past the break.

Continue reading Cambridge Audio intros DacMagic upsampling digital-to-analog converter

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03/09/2008 - World's first THX-certified soundproof door debuts at CEDIA

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Just when you thought nothing else on this planet could ever earn THX certification, here comes Serious Materials to prove you wrong. The image you are inevitably peering at above is the world's first THX-certified soundproof door, the QuietHome. Boasting an STC rating of 51 in a 2.25-inch thick door, it's said to be the only door in the world to stand up to those mighty THX standards. Just for reference, it's noted that typical hollow-core doors have an STC rating of only 15 (and solid-core doors around 27), and we're told that this one will reduce noise between 65% and 85% compared to traditional alternatives. Of course, such a marvelous addition to your home won't run you cheap -- the QuietHome family ranges from $1,495 to $2,495 per door, so you better have dead silence really high on your list of priorities before pulling the trigger (on a silenced Walther PPK, of course).
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02/09/2008 - CasaTunes pipes multiple audio streams to multiple rooms

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Need another option for streaming multiple jams to multiple places? Enter CasaTunes, which is debuting a pair of devices along with accompanying software today at CEDIA. The CasaTunes XLi sits neatly within just about any desktop PC, and when connected to a CasaTunes XLa or third-party amplifier (plus speakers, natch), users can stream five separate sources of music to up to six rooms. Yeah, as in it'll manage which tracks are being pumped to which rooms. The entirely more professional CasaTunes XLe (pictured) is a rack-mount version of the XLi that adds support for 12 rooms and can be scaled up to support four boxes (or 48 rooms). There's built-in support for playing back songs coated with Microsoft's DRM, though there's no mention of any others. As for pricing / availability, expect the XLi to ship in September for $999 while the XLe departs sometime in Q4 for $1,699. Full release is after the break.

Continue reading CasaTunes pipes multiple audio streams to multiple rooms

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01/09/2008 - Canton delivers new floorstander, surround bar and bookshelf speakers

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The speaker manufacturers are out in full force in the run-up to CEDIA, and Canton's making sure its voice coils are recognized, too. For starters, the company is introducing its Reference family of speakers consisting of four models (including the Reference 3.2 floorstander, going for $16,000 per pair). It's also looking to snag a sliver of the soundbar market with the CD 90 SB, which packs a trio of speakers and comes in black or silver for $650. Finally, the outfit will be demonstrating its upgraded Ergo and GLE lines, each benefiting from updated driver technology and finish options. Follow the links below to satisfy your curiosity about any of the aforementioned wares.

Read - Canton upgraded lines
Read - Canton Reference 3.2
Read - Canton CD 90 SB
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31/08/2008 - PSB pushes out Imagine loudspeakers, leaves nothing to the imagination

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PSB is noticeably proud of being based in Canada, but its patriotism is just slightly overshadowed by the pride put forth in the construction of its new Imagine line of loudspeakers. On course for a CEDIA debut, the Imagine crew consists of the Imagine T three-driver tower, Imagine B two-way bookshelf, Imagine C dual-woofer center channel and the Imagine S dual-two-way surround. The new family is available as we speak, though they aren't for the short-on-cash crowd; the C alone is $800, while the floodstander rings up at two large per pair. Full release (with all the juicy details) is just after the break.

Continue reading PSB pushes out Imagine loudspeakers, leaves nothing to the imagination

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29/08/2008 - Disney to finally unleash a few classics on Blu-ray
DisneyEver since the early days of the format war, many have questioned Disney's dedicated to the format because over the years as Disney has released a few classics out of its vault onto DVD, Blu-ray fans were left looking through the window. About a year ago we finally got word that Disney was going to stop this trend and release Sleeping Beauty on Blu-ray -- complete with BD Live extras -- and now we got word that there are more classics to follow. In the next two years, Disney plans to release Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Pinocchio and Beauty and the Beast on Blu. This is a great sign the Disney is finally pulling out all the stops and putting all its weight behind the new HD format, but only time will tell if these family favorites will be enough to help Blu-ray replace DVD and not be replaced by digital downloads -- anytime soon anyways.
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28/08/2008 - DirecTV adds HD locals in Chattanooga, Augusta, Pennsylvania

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Coming right back is DirecTV, just a few days after activating HD locals in New York and Nebraska comes word that Johnstown-Altoona, PA, Chattanooga, TN and Augusta, GA are the latest in its 44 planned local rollouts this summer/fall. Better hurry DirecTV, the days are already getting shorter. Beyond the read links is the list of newly-added local networks, proceed with caution, or reckless abandon, it's pretty much the same to us either way.

Read - Johnstown-Altoona, Pa
Read - Chattanooga, Tenn
Read - Augusta, Ga
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27/08/2008 - Cary Audio Designs ships award-winning Cinema 11v video scaler

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Cary Audio Designs Cinema 11v video processor
Cary Audio Design's Cinema 11v video processor was shown off at last year's CEDIA, but it's finally getting its debut party at CEDIA 2008 next week. Don't think the unit hasn't been busy, though -- in the interim, it's been doing some kind of sci-fi time travel shenanigans and picked up a "2008 Product of the Year" award. Leaving aside the issue of general availability, we thought there were plenty of days left in the year. The Faroudja DCDi-powered unit promises to be the "highest-performing video scaler/switcher/processor available," which we think the folks at Silicon Optix might take issue with. The Cinema 11v certainly looks a treat (in a simple way), and sports six HDMI 1.3 inputs and a pair of outputs that can pump out a 120-Hz, 1080p signal sourced from composite, component, RGB or HDMI inputs.

[Via Widescreen Review]

Read - Cinema 11v wins award [PDF link]
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27/08/2008 - Naim's NaimNet to bring audiophile-quality sound to your whole home

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NaimNet NS03 music server
There aren't too many audiophile firms that really take a whole-systems approach, but Naim has been at it for years. The firm is adding new models to its whole-home audio systems, but sadly for us, the pricing is pretty much the same -- too expensive. New to the NaimNet music server lineup are the NS01 ($6,800), NS02 ($7,900) and the NS03 ($9,575). For your dollars, you get one-touch CD ripping, an easy-to-use UI, database information from AMG, support for six simultaneous streams and storage of your precious bits on mirrored 400GB drives. Oh yeah, and the system will offer up non-DRM'ed music files on your plebian networked or USB-attached devices, too. Having spent some time with Naim equipment, we're not complaining about the functionality or build quality, but these prices make us consider Sonos, Slim Devices, Apple, or even sprinkling dedicated PCs throughout the house.
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26/08/2008 - Audioholics breaks out Marantz SR4003 receiver

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Marantz SR4003 receiver
The Audioholics store has lifted the lid on the new Marantz SR4003 receiver. Right up front, you'll notice the design borrows from Marantz's Reference series of components, so now you can satisfy your champagne-like tastes without breaking your beer-like budget. Joe Six Pack won't feel robbed by the feature set either -- the SR4003 is a seven-channel, 80-Watt number with a triplet of HDMI 1.3a inputs and a single output. With some 16,000-microfarads in the amplifier section's capacitor banks, those are pretty generous 80-Watts, too. Of course, there's an array of video upconversion and autocalibration niceties for you, too. For Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA, you'll have to use LPCM, but something had to be cut out to fit the budget. In all, the generous package of specs behind the nice-looking face and a $550 price sound like a good formula to us.

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26/08/2008 - Australian peace restored with free HD tuners

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DTVPal
For all of our complaining about the long run-up to the analog shutoff here in the US, this story illustrates the benefits of taking time to do a little consumer education. In Australia, it turns out that not everyone was aware that TVs with analog-only tuners are unable to receive the HD programming that Seven and Ten are advertising so heavily. This all came to a boil with Ten's HD-only Masters golf broadcast, and some customers returned to stores with talk of "misrepresentation." Retailers are giving away digital set-top boxes to smooth things over, though, so hopefully things are cleared up for now. This sounds exactly like the kind of thing US big-box retailers avoided by clearing shelves of analog-only TVs, and we might suggest some similar action for other global HD citizens.
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25/08/2008 - Avoca unveils VIP Music Edition residential music control system

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As the run-up to CEDIA continues, the no-names are coming out in force. Avoca is looking to make a splash in the residential music control system sector with its VIP Music Edition. A stiff $3,990.00 (and up) will buy you a sleek VIP Music Player, a wireless VIP Music Companion (read: a remote) and the company's own Say it-Play it control interface, which enables you to simply speak what artist you'd like to hear and have it played back instantly. The integrated CD player can automatically rip and store lossless copies of your jams, and the on-screen interface enables you to sift through and find whatever you're looking for. The system is all set to snag some limelight in Denver, though prospective buyers can find it at dealers right now. Full release after the jump.

Continue reading Avoca unveils VIP Music Edition residential music control system

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23/08/2008 - Audioholics sets loose Yamaha BD-S2900 Blu-ray player for less than $1,000

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Yamaha BD-S2900Happy surprise -- there's no need to wait for next month's CEDIA show to get details on Yamaha's BD-S2900 Blu-ray player, since Audioholics released them from its own stockroom. The online store that goes alongside the site has them in stock and ready to ship next week. The pricing is a good example of "under-promise, over-deliver" joy as well -- the MSRP on the deck is $1,200, but you can get one on your doorstep for just a nickel under $1,000. That's still not cheap, especially for a Profile 1.1 unit, but we don't expect many potential buyers are seriously weighing the BD-S2900 against a Funai NB500 (or one if its variants), or even a PS3. If you want to get in on some gloating in the comments, break out that credit card and prepare a spot in your equipment rack!

Read - Audioholics announcement
Read - Yamaha BD-S2900 store page
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22/08/2008 - NuVo Renovia delivers whole-home audio over powerline

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Faults notwithstanding, powerline is still mighty scrumptious in theory. Evidently NuVo Technologies agrees, as it's cranking out what's possibly the planet's first whole-home audio system that relies on existing A/C wiring. The Renovia can deliver audio and metadata throughout the house by simply tapping into the power wires already within your walls, and in case you couldn't guess, it's using the HomePlug 1.0 specification in order to do so. The central hub has AM, FM and Sirius-ready tuners already on board, and owners can plug in a pair of iPod docks along with two analog sources to boot. In case that's still not enough to get your drool a-flowin', it'll also stream "virtually any digital content on the network via NuVo's Music Port module." There's no word just yet on an MSRP, but judging by NuVo's past, we'd assume that it'll be somewhere between grossly and obscenely overpriced.
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22/08/2008 - Sony expands Muteki family with DJ-style LBT-DJ2i XROSS FADE music system

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Man, we didn't even know the Muteki moniker was still in existence. Nevertheless, Sony has just added a big, bad member to said congregation with the LBT-DJ2i XROSS FADE. This rather beastly music system packs 450 total watts of power, a CD player, AM / FM tuners, a line-in jack, a pair of 2-way shelf speakers, a dual 7-inch subwoofer enclosure and the ability to convert CDs / radio to MP3 files. And that's just the beginning. Aspiring DJs will also find a bundled cross-fader with monitor cue and a built-in two-channel mixer, and the iPod-lovin' interface ensures that you'll never have to touch your PMPs once they're mounted. There's also a USB recording function to save mix sessions to a USB device in ATRAC MP3 format. Too bad this setup will cost you half a grand when it ships next month. Check the full release after the cut.

Continue reading Sony expands Muteki family with DJ-style LBT-DJ2i XROSS FADE music system

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20/08/2008 - Integra's DTR-6.9 AV receiver carries THX Select2 Plus badge, $1k price

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Integra DTR-6.9 AV receiver
Besting its DTR-5.9 sibling, the new DTR-6.9 AV receiver from Integra has earned itself the THX Select2 Plus certification. In fact, it's the first Integra model to meet that spec, which among other things means that the DTR-6.9 packs THX Loudness Plus wizardry for those of us who value our hearing and don't listen at reference levels all the time. As you'd expect from the Onkyo roots, the feature set is solid: 7x100-Watts, four HDMI 1.3a inputs, Faroudja scaling, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD MA and Audyssey MultiEQ. And because it's an Integra, you also know that custom installers get some niceties as well: multizone audio that can tap into a pair of the 7-channel amplifier section, 12-volt triggers and remote control via ethernet, RS-232 and HDMI. All in all, a nice tidy package for $1,000.

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20/08/2008 - Panasonic's Blu-ray SC-BT100 HTIB system gets reviewed

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Make no mistake about it, Panasonic's SC-BT100 is pretty intriguing for those looking to dive head first into the Blu-ray / surround sound game simultaneously. Boasting a 5.1 speaker system along with the DMP-BD50 standalone Blu-ray player, Panny's BD HTIB has a lot going for it on paper. Design wise, reviewers found lots to love, and they also admired the plethora of connection options and simplicity of use. Unsurprisingly, the picture quality was coined "phenomenal," but we wouldn't expect anything less from the BD50. The only real digs on the entire system are the steep price and the lackluster audio quality; highs were said to be "too harsh," and the overall quality was so far below par that it prevented critics at Pocket-lint from offering up a wholehearted recommendation. Maybe your ears will feel differently, though.
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19/08/2008 - Warner Bros. to launch Casablanca / Austin Powers Blu-ray box sets

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Warner Bros. isn't content with just loosing The Polar Express on 3D Blu-ray -- oh no, it's got another pair of titles set for a holiday launch. Famed classic Casablanca will finally be getting the Blu-ray treatment it deserves this December 2nd when it arrives in Ultimate Collector's Edition form. The $64.99 package ($59.98 on DVD) is reportedly "elegantly boxed in an intricate laser-cut Moroccan design and will include such collectibles as replicas of actual props (Victor Laszlo's "Letter of Transit") as well as a number of Warner studio documents. Going from one of the greatest love stories of all time to one of the raunchiest comedies of the past, oh, score, Austin Powers Collection: Shagadelic Edition, Loaded With Extra Mojo will be uncomfortably landing alongside the aforementioned gem on the same day. The collection-only package will include the entire trilogy in Blu-ray high-def for $74.98.

[Image courtesy of ValleyArts]

Read - Casablanca release
Read - Austin Powers release
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15/08/2008 - Philips readying ultrathin 42-inch Essence TV for IFA debut?

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Let's be honest -- it's been quite awhile since Philips has been seen as a big-shot in the world of HDTVs. Evidently the company is aiming to change all that in just a few weeks, as a fresh rumor puts a stunning new set on display at IFA. Reportedly, the lightweight 42-inch Essence TV will boast a 38-millimeter depth and will be made for wall hanging. Regrettably, that's all the details that have seeped out thus far, but we'll be finding out just how much truth there is to all of this in a fortnight.
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15/08/2008 - Details emerge on Sony's first WHDI device


Information is beginning to emerge about Sony's first device harnessing the new standard for wireless high-definition video connectivity – WHDI.
The DMX-WL1T will allow uncompressed 1080p HD video and audio signal to be transmitted to any Dmex compatible Sony Bravia HDTV.

15/08/2008 - Boston Acoustics throws us a curve with its Vista speakers

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Boston Acoustics Vista speakers
We don't normally associate Boston Acoustics with high-fashion design, but its new Vista speakers definitely change that opinion. There will be six speakers in the range by the end of the year, so you should be able to put together a package with the desired amount of "surroundedness." To lead things off, the company will bring out the VS 336 floorstander ($1,700 each), VS 325C center channel ($900), VS 240 bookshelf ($400 each) and the VPS 210 subwoofer ($1,700). All these models have different-sized cones to fill in the bass end of their coverage, so let's hope the crossover and voicing act to create a strong family resemblance between speakers. A pair of additional models will be added to the lineup in November at the $700 price point -- the VS 224 L/C/R and VS 260 bookshelf. Okay, so we can tick off "good-looking" and "reasonable price" -- if these check out sonically, we think Boston has all the ingredients for a successful speaker family on its hands.

[Via AudioJunkies]

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15/08/2008 - Gefen gears up for CEDIA with Matrixes / distribution amplifiers

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It's nearly that time of year again folks -- the hunt for the playoffs begins, school gets back in session and Gefen goes absolutely berserk. It's already gearing up for this year's CEDIA Expo in Denver by revealing details about an 8x4 HDMI Matrix -- which "allows up to eight high-definition video sources to be accessed at any time from any one of four HDMI displays" -- and a self-explanatory 4x4 Component Audio over CAT5 Matrix. Furthermore, the outfit is introducing the 1:2 and 1:4 Component Audio over CAT-5 Distribution Amplifiers, which "enable audio / video systems using the component format to split and deliver two or four identical signals." Pricing remains up in the air, but all that should be cleared up here in just a few weeks.

Read - HDMI Matrixes, etc.
Read - Distribution amplifiers
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14/08/2008 - Australia's Foxtel nets 40,000 new subscribers since HD+ launch

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Only a few months have passed since Australia's Foxtel launched its HD+ service, and judging by the numbers, Aussies are warming to high-def. The carrier just posted a 17% rise in revenue (up to $1.7 billion), and it's expecting the numbers to remain high as more consumers cave to the temptation of high-definition programming. Furthermore, 40,000 new users have signed on since the HD+ launch, and the average revenue per user has skyrocketed to nearly $85 per month "as a result of a higher take-up of additional services such as Foxtel iQ." There's no specific mention of additional HD channels, but given that bigwigs surely realize how critical they are to revenue growth, we can't imagine them not giving you folks a few more here shortly.
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12/08/2008 - Denon's AVR-5308CI receiver reviewed, price and value high

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Denon AVR-5308CI receiver
For most folks, it's hard to think of any $5,500 receiver as a "value purchase," but as we've seen before, "value" can get pretty slippery at the high end. Audioholics has put up a very detailed review of Denon's flagship AVR-5308CI receiver, just to test the value of the unit. If you want need a reference-quality centerpiece to your HT setup, we'd be hard-pressed to disagree with the analysis. First, think of the unit as a top-of-the-line Denon AVP-A1HDCI preamp/processor and a seven-channel amplifier that share a power cord, all in one tidy (and massive) chassis. Now consider the $7,500 price tag on that AVP-A1HDCI -- that's $2,000 more than the receiver, and you still have to shell out for an amplifier (or seven). Of course, maybe after the first $5,500, you won't feel the additional $2,000. Somehow we don't think that's true -- check your bank balance and hit the link for the review, not necessarily in that order.
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12/08/2008 - soundmatters reveals SLIMstage40 surround bar

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Look out, Yamaha / Polk / Vizio / et al., you've got another rival heating up the surround bar game. Destined to hit CEDIA 2008, soundmatters' SLIMstage40 checks in at a luscious 3.3- x 3.4- x 39-inches in size and features 170-watts from eight internal amplifiers. The device houses four Linear Magnetic Drive main / satellite speakers and a trio of down-firing Extreme-Energy subs that are assisted by six mass radiators. Furthermore, you'll find three digital audio inputs (two optical, one coaxial), three analog inputs, a headphone jack, LED-backlit panel, an RS-232 port and an IR remote. Folks interesting in dabbling in faux-surround can snag one now for $899 to $1,199, depending on whether you spring for the bundle including the SUBstage100 subwoofer.
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07/08/2008 - AUO preps eco-friendlier 32-inch LCD

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AUO eco TFT-LCD
Even though there are some sketchy figures bandied about in the mad rush to hop on the "green" bandwagon, the trend of producing more efficient devices with less environmental impact is for real. It looks like LCD manufacturer AUO is spreading its tech bets. Only a couple of months ago, the company was touting LED backlighting for a 44-percent reduction in energy consumption (and better images, to boot). Now the company is planning to show off a 32-inch LCD that it claims will cut consumption by 50-percent and will be market-ready in Q2 2008. No radical new technology here, just good engineering that cuts the number of fluorescent tubes used for the backlighting from 16 down to 4. No doubt that LED backlights are the future, but we'll be more than happy to see fluorescent backlights put some pricing pressure on them.

[Thanks, Richard!]
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03/08/2008 - AUSTAR content with leaving the HD to Foxtel

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Here's an interesting one. Australia's AUSTAR (a pay-TV provider, for those not in the know) is seemingly not in any hurry whatsoever to do as staunch rival Foxtel did and begin offering HD to its customers. Rather than catching up to the competition (and splurging on an investment), AUSTAR is pinching its pennies. According to the company's chief executive, he doesn't feel "a huge amount of pressure" to embrace high-def, suggesting that the increase in customers from the addition of high-definition isn't worth the steep cost. Of course, he did admit that HD would likely be in the carrier's future, but probably not until "mid-2010" or later. C'mon people, how many times do the experts have to tell you? Build it (first), and they will come.
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01/08/2008 - SoundSense unveils sophisticated Noise Cancellation System for audio purists

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For home theater owners that love audio as much as (if not more than) video, unwanted noise is a real downer. Thankfully, the sound engineers at SoundSense completely agree, and now the company known for its acoustic dampening solutions is delivering a Noise Cancellation System that reportedly eliminates all that excess noise when you fire up your speakers and amplifiers. Put simply, the process simply utilizes a small microphone and speaker; the "noise-canceling speaker emits sound with opposite qualities of the noise source, thus eliminating distracting sounds." We've no idea how costly said solution will be, nor if it will be easy for novices to use, but don't hesitate to give SoundSense a call and see what it'll take to zap the interference lingering in your HT.
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29/07/2008 - LG to cut LCD production, Samsung plans to keep its lines humming

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That glut of LCDs sitting on the shelves has some manufacturers at odds on how to react, with world #2 LG cutting production by 10% (with plans to raise it again in September), while the number one manufacturer Samsung is going to keep pushing them out as fast as it can, aiming for double digit sales growth this year. That doesn't mean it's not concerned about falling demand and too much supply, but it looks like all those partnerships mean its going to have someone to sell all its screens to at the end of the day. Don't expect that attitude to crash prices anytime soon however, as OEMs like AUO and CMO are following LGs lead and cutting production temporarily.

Read - Samsung Elec says has no plans to cut LCD output
Read - LG Display to cut output by 10 pct in downturn
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29/07/2008 - Vizio to reportedly release cheap soundbar with wireless subwoofer

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As much as we love soundbars for cramped spaces and areas where full-blown multi-channel setups just aren't feasible, we've noticed that any decent one usually costs a wad. Thankfully, the firm known for astounding consumers with low-priced flat-panels will reportedly be doling out a soundbar of its own this fall. According to CNET, Vizio will be releasing a faux-surround system with a wireless subwoofer for the low, low price of $299. There's no mention of the specs just yet, but even if it just sounds slightly above average, it'll probably be worth three bills. Keep an eye out for this one to land in September (possibly at CEDIA?).
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24/07/2008 - Onkyo launches TX-SR806 / TX-SR706 receivers, HT-S7100 / HT-S6100 HTIB systems

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Check it, Onkyo fans -- your main outfit has just revealed two new AV receivers and a pair of HTIB systems, so we're going to get right down to it. Both the $1,099 TX-SR806 (pictured) and $899 TX-SR706 receivers are THX certified and include Faroudja DCDi video processing capabilities, Audyssey room acoustics correction and Dynamic EQ, and Onkyo's Music Optimizer. You'll also find at least four HDMI 1.3a ports and 1080p upscaling. Moving on, we've got the $899 HT-S7100 and $799 HT-S6100 HTIB systems, each of which include a receiver, seven-channel loudspeaker system, a powered subbie and an obligatory iPod dock. Check the read link for more details and ship dates.
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24/07/2008 - Sony rolls out $55k professional BAE-VX1000 Blu-ray disc encoding system
With the aim of putting making Blu-ray accessible for smaller studios, Sony Creative Software has released the BAE-VX1000 encoder for disc authoring. $55,000 buys a system capable of analyzing a film automatically and offering multiple bit rate versions to be compared later, or frame by frame encoding. The finished product comes out in either h.264 or MPEG-2 form (what, no VC-1?) and it works on varying setups from one to many PCs or servers depending on what a studio can afford. Of course, it's the perfect match for Sony's Blu-print software (now up to version 4.3) or other authoring applications, we'll wait for prices to get a bit more affordable before cranking out the next Behind the Scenes at CES boxed set, but for the pros it might be worth it to get the same tools Sony Pictures uses.
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24/07/2008 - Meridian $3K F80 home entertainment system gets reviewed

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Before you unload $2,995 on anything, you're likely going to want the opinion of someone who has had a chance to try things out beforehand, no? Working under that assumption, we present to you a review of Meridian's stratospherically priced F80. Proudly called "the most expensive tabletop music system in the history of the civilized world," this unit was seen as a "model for all tabletop systems," with the reviewer even begging everyone else to look at this before starting up design on yet another ho hum alternative. The critic also noted that this unit pulled off what he thought was impossible: "identifiable left- and right-channel sound from a system that measures only 16-inches wide." As expected, the F80 was indeed the "best" he had ever heard in this category, but the omission of an iPod dock was a sore spot. For those with more disposable income than they know what to do with, this one seems a surefire winner; for everyone else, it's not worth going into debt over.
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21/07/2008 - SPEED adds Neural-THX Surround to HD broadcasts

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After Neural-THX Surround got around 14.5 minutes in the limelight with its Super Bowl XLII showing earlier this year, the technology has remained far, far away from the press. Now, however, SPEED is vowing to integrate Neural-THX Surround professional products "for its HD programming schedule covering NASCAR, Grand Am, IndyCar, etc." For those unfamiliar with the technology, it goes a little something like this: 5.1 sound from the track is taken in, beamed over stereo channels to minimize bandwidth usage and then decoded by specially equipped receivers for "5.1 surround" in the living room. From what we can tell, the tech should be ready to roll right now, so it's up to you to snatch up an AVR in order to take advantage.
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21/07/2008 - Beyonwiz ups the ante with 300GB DP-P2 HD DVR

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The Beyonwiz DP-S1 dual-tuner HD DVR was a pretty hot piece for those in Australia last year, but we'd agree that it's about time a suitable replacement hit the market. Enter the DP-P2, a 300GB twin-tuner HD DVR created to capture both pay-TV and free-to-air signals on its internal hard drive. The unit supports IceTV Remote, which enables users to "choose from multiple remote recording options using any web browser, web-enabled mobile phone or while using the all new IceTV Widget." Furthermore, the unit can connect to a home network in order to stream local media (music, images, videos, etc.) on the living room TV, and those with another Beyonwiz in the house can have this newcomer stream content from the old one onto the primary set. A bit steep at AU$999 (that's 969 of those Greenbacks), but it's available now for those with deep wallets and an incurable infatuation with high-def.
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19/07/2008 - DISH Network goes live with HD locals in Beaumont / Port Arthur, Texas

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We'll admit, DISH Network's latest press release isn't all that thrilling for folks outside of Beaumont / Port Arthur, Texas, but it's entirely better to see something like this rather than another funeral invite for its latest satellite. DISH has just lit up HD locals in the aforesaid area, simultaneously putting another check mark on its summer rollout list and giving everyone else hope that they'll be next. Yeehaw!
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18/07/2008 - HD movies featuring stereo sound in PlayStation Video Store

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Though we suspect this is totally normal judging by the fact that not all HD flicks available via Apple TV have 5.1 Dolby Digital surround sound, it is a wee bit disappointing. One particular tipster wrote in to express his frustration with Sony's recently launched PlayStation Video Store, noting that his HD movie rental featured only stereo sound. When contacting Sony on the matter, a Store specialist informed him that no refunds were allowed and there was no way to determine how audio was packaged prior to downloading. So yeah, if multi-channel audio is paramount, you may want to think twice about emptying your wallet in the PS Store.
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17/07/2008 - Time Warner Cable adding a trio of HD channels in Waco / Austin, TX

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Time Warner Cable just finished adding 11 high-def stations to the EPG in Irving / Las Colinas, Texas, but it seems to only be able to add channels in Waco / Austin in threes. Case in point: late last month, said region picked up a new trio, and now, we're hearing that a new trifecta is headed in starting July 17th. Curious for details? How's about Biography HD, Hallmark Movie Channel HD and Travel Channel HD. Sure, anything is better than nothing, but we have a sneaking suspicion that locals won't take too kindly to TWC choosing these three out of all the possibilities. Are we right, or are we right? [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family]

[Thanks, Chad]
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15/07/2008 - Definitive's Mythos SSA-50 soundbar gets reviewed

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During our trip to CEDIA last year, we were pretty astounded by just how well a soundbar could sound when placed in the right environment. Definitive Technology's pricey Mythos SSA-50 won't save you much (dollar wise) compared to a mid-range surround system, but it's probably the form factor that has you captivated. Sound & Vision were able to take this bugger in for a listen, and during testing, reviewers noted that they actually forgot to pay attention to it and simply enjoyed the experience. To us, that's a pretty positive remark. Furthermore, critics noted that it "could replace a lot" of 5.1 systems, and given the ease of installation, it ended up looking mighty attractive. Hit the read link for the full review, but only if you don't mind being talked into a purchase.
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08/07/2008 - Blu-ray step away from being HD format for China

China is now a step away from adopting the Blu-ray Disc format, which, when it happens could be the spark that leads to the global rise of Blu-ray.
First, the Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) has announced that DigiRise Audio (DRA), a locally-developed Chinese audio codec, has passed an important technical evaluation, and is now on its way to being adopted into the format.
Then it was announced that CESI Technology Co. Ltd, a contributor member of the BDA, has been designated as the first official Blu-ray Disc Test Centre in China.

08/07/2008 - Will Blu-ray audio discs take off, or flounder aimlessly à la DVD-A / SACD?

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For those burned by either DVD-Audio, SACD or HD DVD (or, heaven forbid, any combination of the three), you're probably taking a rather defensive approach to Blu-ray audio. Now that said format is the sole king of high-definition media (in the physical realm, anyway), it's just a matter of time before firms start pushing out full-fledged audio discs while trumpeting the incredulous sound quality. After all, with 50GB of space, you can fit an awful lot of high-resolution audio on there. We've already seen the first BD record released and we already know that Neil Young's entire archive will soon be loosed on the format, but are the puzzle pieces aligned for Blu-ray audio to take off? From our standpoint, we're still hesitant to say yes. With CD players still dominating dashboards and BD drives still a long ways from being commonplace in computers, BD audio is apt to remain a niche good for years to come. Even still, do you think it has what it takes to overcome?
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08/07/2008 - Crystal Audio launches TR-100 and TR-60 wireless speaker kits

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A couple of months back, we asked about options for hooking up rear surround speakers without running wires. For those still on the hunt (and located in the UK), here are two more options. Crystal Audio's TR-100 frees a pair of speakers from wires by providing two transmitters and two receivers, each which pack 100-watts of power. The more affordable TR-60 powers a pair of speakers from one receiver, giving each driver a touch less power. We're told that the units can handle uncompressed wireless transmission of audio and that delay latency is "inaudible to the human ear," but unless you can find these in a local shop to demo, you'll be shelling out £399 ($791) / £249 ($493) in order to see hear for yourself.

[Via Telegraph]
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07/07/2008 - Niro breaks through bars, shows off Spherical Surround system

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Niro Spherical Sound System
It looks like Niro is trying out new design ideas from its "1.1" soundbar+sub products, as evidenced by the its new Speherical Surround system. There are three speaker cabinets, covering the large-medium-small spectrum: a subwoofer module (200-mm driver with 50-Watts), a bass module (three 90-mm drivers, each with 30-Watts of amplification) and a so-called "top speaker" (two 60-mm drivers, each powered by 30-Watts). Thankfully, the pictures give us some idea of how this is all supposed to get set up: the subwoofer goes off to the side of the display and the other two boxes are aligned with the display -- bass module below and "top speaker" above. If faced with the prospect of this "2.1" system, we'd personally opt to cram one additional speaker cabinet into the room and go with a 3.1 L/C/R/sub setup (and use a more conventional 2-channel virtual surround scheme), but that's just us. If this Niro setup gets your fires stoked, you'll be able to handle Dolby Digital, Dolby Pro Logic, DTS and AAC formats with the processing module for only €600.

[Via Cybertheater]
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04/07/2008 - Discovery HD goes live in Australia

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Discovery HD goes live in Australia
Just a few weeks later than the planned June 22nd date, Discovery HD has officially launched in Australia. This is just the officially-official announcement -- we wouldn't be surprised if the rollout actually started up on June 22 -- so we'd like to hear from Aussie readers in the comments below. Discovery certainly has some some great content to offer up, but filling up a 24/7 schedule on the Foxtel HD+ service will be challenging. We're not compaining -- spreading the HD word always gets a thumbs up from us! Add in the Samsung/Foxtel HD+ promo and the Australian TiVos, and we're pretty sure there will be lots of HD grins going around in Oz.
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02/07/2008 - Former backer of Toshiba's "defeated" HD DVD format to release first Blu-ray Disk player

Onkyo, the A/V manufacturer that backed the high def DVD format and sold around 2,000 players, is to launch its first BD player later this year.
The company had flagged up its intention to let bygones be bygones and join the other “side” shortly after Toshiba announced that it would concede the format war last February.
It discontinued production of its HD DVD players, while assuring existing customers they would continue to receive full product support and service.
A company statement also said it’s R&D team had “maintained a parallel development programme for the competing Blu-ray technology”.

02/07/2008 - Samsung to include free Foxtel iQ2 HD DVR with flat-panel purchase

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Simmer down, North Americans / Europeans / Africans / etc. -- you should know this here deal is being reserved for those in Australia, so don't go ordering yourself a new Sammy without reading the fine print (or buying yourself a plane ticket). Reportedly, Samsung is looking to rival Sony's "Free PS3" promotion by tossing in a newly launched Foxtel iQ2 HD DVR for folks picking up a Samsung flat-panel HDTV and connecting to the HD+ service. Better still, Samsung will pick up the tab on the $200 connection fee as well. An official announcement of the partnership is expected within a fortnight, so if you've been looking to snag a new HDTV and make the dive into pay-HDTV, we'd hold off just a bit longer if you're even mildly fond of fantastic freebies.

[Via CNET]
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01/07/2008 - TiVo officially launches in Australia

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Ah, so whispers did prove true. TiVo went all out today Down Under as it trumpeted the forthcoming release of its heralded set-top-box in Australia. As we'd already heard, the box will be available exclusively through Harvey Norman stores for three months starting on July 29th, after which the AUD$699 device will find its way into other retail outlets. On the plus side, the HD DVR will have all of the standard features as seen on the US model (Season Pass, Wish List, etc.) and there will be no monthly fee. On the downside, most of the networking extras we're accustomed to in America -- TiVoToGo, music playback, photo viewing, etc. -- won't be immediately available. The unit itself is based on the TiVo HD, as it features a 160GB hard drive, dual tuners, an eSATA port and support for SD / HD broadcasts. Hit the read link for all the gory details, okay mate?
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30/06/2008 - Yamaha intros YSP-3050 Digital Sound Projector

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Yamaha cranked out its pricey YSP-600 sound bar just a few months back, but the company's already looking to put the past behind and move forward with the YSP-3050. The latest in the outfit's long-standing line of Digital Sound Projectors offers up 21 beam drivers, two woofers, 23 corresponding digital amplifiers, three Cinema DSP programs (movie, music and sports), analog-to-HDMI video upconversion, HD upscaling to 1080i / 720p and a 1080p (24Hz and 60Hz) compatible HDMI interface with two inputs and one output. Aside from engulfing you in audio with just a single bar, the unit is also XM Radio / iPod-ready (via the $99.95 YDS-11), and the integrated FM tuner and bundled remote make it even easier to see in your den. You'll also find the firm's propriety automated system calibration (IntelliBeam) along with TV Equal Volume to keep those sudden bursts at bay when it comes time for commercials. 'Tis a shame this piece costs $1,399.95, but if you're tight on space, it just might be worth it. Full release after the break.

Continue reading Yamaha intros YSP-3050 Digital Sound Projector

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29/06/2008 - Control4 announces 7-inch POE wall-mounted touch panel

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If Control4's Mini Touch screen just seemed too diminutive for your fat fingers, yet the 10.5-inch edition just engulfed your wall, why not check out the happy medium? The 7-inch POE Wall Mount Touch Screen arrives right between the other two in size, yet offers up the same home controlling abilities for tweaking your lighting, temperature, volume, etc. You'll also find a built-in screen saver application that you can customize with your own photos, and if that there just pushed you over the edge, you can snag the hard-wired version next month for $1,195. Looking for WiFi? You'll have to wait until "later this year."
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27/06/2008 - Tranquil PC introduces AVA RS3 music server

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Hope you like the shiny, because Tranquil PC is bringing lots and lots of it with its latest home music server. The AVA RS3 comes in two flavors, one of which packs 2 x 500GB drives while the other includes a pair of 1TB HDDs. The unit also boasts a fanless design to keep things quiet, and just in case your music library isn't all converted to .wav files just yet, it possesses an internal optical drive to handle direct-to-HDD ripping. Expect these to ship out in around a fortnight for £549 ($1,092) / £699 ($1,390).

[Thanks, WHSuser]
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27/06/2008 - Universal exec sez Wanted:Blu-ray as The Matrix:DVD

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Former HD DVD supporter turned Blu-ray fan Craig Kornblau of Universal has jumped wholeheartedly onto the dark side - he couldn't even wait for the new movie Wanted to hit theaters before exclaiming that "What The Matrix did for DVD, this could do for Blu-ray". Assuming he's talking more about an impressive package of never before-seen special features plus a loving audio/video transfer of a groundbreaking action movie and less about U-control zooms on Angelina Jolie's tattoos over a cheesy PG-13 snoozefest, there's a chance that could happen. Please pardon our skepticism, we seem to have spilled it all over this area.
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26/06/2008 - Foxtel gets official with quad-tuner iQ2 HD DVR

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Foxtel's HD+ services may have launched a few days back in Australia, but that's not stopping OpenTV from pushing out a release trumpeting the arrival of the iQ2. As you could likely guess, the set-top-box is powered by OpenTV's Core2 middleware, but frankly, that's not the part we're interested in. Merely hearing the words "quad-tuner" just gets our juices flowing, and with nearly "double the recordable capacity" of the current Foxtel iQ, we'd say it's a surefire winner for Aussies looking to delve into the beautiful world of high-definition.
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26/06/2008 - Pioneer unveils S-4EX bookshelf / S-8EX center channel

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Pioneer's not just focusing on the video side of things, oh no, it's also throwing a bone to the audio lovers in attendance. Designed to complement the EX series of drivers, the S-4EX bookshelf and S-8EX center channel were each constructed with the same heralded technology as used in last year's S-3EX tall boy speakers. When coupled with said boys, you've got yourself a complete multi-channel system consisting of EX drivers from top to bottom. Specs wise, each speaker can handle 160-watts of unadulterated power, and furthermore, you'll find a 3cm Ceramic Graphite tweeter dome, 16cm bass driver (2x in the center channel), ultra rigid cabinet construction and beech high gloss veneer or dark teak matte finishes. As usual, mum's the word on pricing / availability.

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25/06/2008 - Pioneer reveals four new HTIB systems, three with Blu-ray players

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We've seen a few HTIB systems trickle out from the Pioneer labs of late, but never four at once. Today, the firm has made official a foursome of home cinema systems slated to hit Europe in the fall, so we'll cut right to the chase. The LX03 is the lone system with a DVD / SACD player and USB port, while the others thoughtfully include Blu-ray decks. The LX03BD (satellite speakers included) and LX08BD (no satellites included) feature 500-watts of power, HDMI 1.3 sockets (2 in / 1 out), KURO LINK, an iPod connection and a 7-band equalizer. The LX01BD includes omni-direction speakers, 400-watts of power and pretty much everything else found on the LX08BD. For complete specifications, be sure to give the read link a visit; as for availability, you'll find the LX03, LX03BD and LX08BD systems in October while the LX01BD arrives in November.
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24/06/2008 - TiVo Series 3 coming to Australia next month

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Great news, Aussies -- you too can enjoy the same box Americans have been using for eons starting next month. Yep, as of July, the TiVo Series 3 will go on sale via Seven for $700, and while Harvey Norman will sell the device exclusively for three months, it'll filter into "all major electronics chains" shortly after that window of time closes. Of note, Seven claims that it is not attempting to compete with Foxtel and its newly announced iQ2 box, and that it is instead aiming for subscribers who want the functionality of a DVR without the costly Foxtel subscription fees. If whispers prove true, you folks can expect to see this on sale in late July following a July 1st media launch.
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23/06/2008 - CyberLink's PowerDVD wins certification for DTS-HD Master Audio

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Just weeks after Corel held a trophy high proclaiming that its WinDVD 8 had landed DTS-HD Master Audio certification, CyberLink is finally able to do the same. Except with its own breed of playback software, PowerDVD. For audiophiles the world over, you can now stop pacing in wonder of when said application will finally have this honor bestowed upon it, as that 7.1-channel goodness you've come to expect from DTS-HD MA can now be fully enjoyed on PowerDVD. Break out the Champagne? No? Okay.
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22/06/2008 - Honeywell offers Crystal series subwoofer cable

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Honeywell subwoofer cableOkay, it's not "self-healing" or anything like that, but Honeywell has added subwoofer interconnects to its Crystal Series of HT cabling products. Subwoofer cables are pretty standard fare, but we've got to give credit to Honeywell for not over-inflating the marketing hype. With the low bandwidth requirements and run lengths that tend to be on the long side (and often next to power cords), shielding is probably the most important design consideration for subwoofer interconnects; and true to form, that's exactly what the press blurb emphasizes. The 100-percent foil shield combined with a 95-percent tinned copper braid should do a good job of keeping the hum out. The cables come complete with the requisite 24-karat gold plated RCA terminations in 5- and 10-meter lengths. No info on pricing -- hopefully the lack of marketing hype around the product nets some savings at the register.
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21/06/2008 - Austin, TX gets 3 new HD channels from Time Warner Cable

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Not even a week after Time Warner Cable gifted subscribers in San Antonio with Disney HD and ABC Family HD, we've now learned that those very two have made their way over to the Austin system. Oh, but TWC threw in the totally enviable ESPNews HD while it was at it. Don't even think about griping SA -- even you know you're this carrier's favorite in the Lone Star State. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family]

[Thanks, Chad]
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20/06/2008 - Auzen X-Fi HomeTheater 7.1 HDMI sound card does bitstream output from your HTPC

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Earlier this month, ASUS introduced the "world's first HDMI 1.3a compliant audio / video enhancement combo card." Who knew numero dos was so close behind? Auzentech has just announced its very own HDMI 1.3-native PCIe audio combo card, which is built around Creative's X-Fi processor and enables PC users to easily output 7.1-channel audio with no downsampling. Essentially, the Auzen X-Fi HomeTheater 7.1 "accepts video from either an internal or external connection, mixes it with digital audio, and outputs the combined video and lossless multichannel audio via a single HDMI 1.3 port." Yep, that means Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio codecs are fully supported. The only digs? For one, pricing remains a mystery, but the real kicker is the September release -- talk about a long wait.
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18/06/2008 - LG, Control4 team up on HDTV automation system for hotels

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The news is flowing hot and heavy from the hospitality sector today, as just moments after LG announced a slew of new LodgeNet-enabled flat-panels, along comes word that the aforementioned outfit and Control4 are teaming up to develop a swank new automation system for the lodging industry. More specifically, the two will co-develop an "integrated automation system for HDTV sets that will allow hotel guests to control lighting, room temperature, draperies and entertainment systems through the television with a single remote control." Better still, the eventual solution will be integrated into LG's hotel TVs, eliminating the need for yet another set-top-box in the room. Regrettably, there's nary a mention of when this (amazing sounding) system will be available (nor where it will be available), but we can definitely see this swaying the avid traveler when it comes time to book the next business trip.
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18/06/2008 - Australia to see Foxtel HD+ service on June 22nd

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You've known this day was coming, but it still has to feel good to have a hard figure to wrap your noodle around. Foxtel's HD+ is reportedly set to go live on June 22nd, with an HD VOD service and two puny HD tiers available at launch. The first tier consists of Fox Sports HD and ESPN HD, while the HD Explore package includes footage from BBC HD, National Geographic HD and Discovery HD. The tiers will set you back AUD $9.95 each per month (or AUD $14.95 for both), but how on Earth could you resist seeing the World Cup Qualifier between Australia and China in glorious high-definition this Sunday? That's right, you can't.

[Via iTWire]
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17/06/2008 - Serene scenes on HDTV no substitute for nature

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Ruh roh. Seems you can't use the "it's good for my health" excuse to watch just one more hour of Sunrise Earth, as a recent study has shown that watching serene scenes on HDTV just doesn't have the same calming effect as does watching a similar scene in nature. The University of Washington-based study discovered that heart recovery rates in people exposed to minor stress were the same when viewing peaceful imagery on a plasma or starting directly at a blank wall. Yeah, a blank wall. It was also noted that heart rates dropped more quickly when these same folks viewed a calming scene through a window, suggesting that technology may not be ready to replace reality just yet in this particular case. We just have to wonder if they were using true HD signals on the display -- nothing gets our heart racing like a bad episode of Pool Watchers in SD.

[Thanks, Ben]
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14/06/2008 - Green Plug starts small, signs on Westinghouse

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Remember Green Plug? That universal connector we detailed last month which aims to replace wall warts and help Mother Earth out in the process? Turns out, said outfit has just landed its first real believer as Westinghouse committed to using the smart power technology. Even Darwin Chang, Westy's CTO, admitted that his firm "wasn't the largest, but somebody has to be the first." Chang is hoping that utilizing said tech will help it cut costs by eliminating the need to ship power adapters with its wares, but we'd say that's being pretty optimistic. Really, the only way that will go over well is if hordes of other firms jump on the (currently desolate) bandwagon in short order -- any takers?

[Via PCWorld]
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14/06/2008 - Yamaha's YST001 shimmies into the speaker-lamp niche

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Yamha YST001 speaker lamps
If a few more companies get into these speaker-lamp combo designs, it just might define a whole new product category. Yamaha's YST001 speakers, however, offer up a couple of features that make them better suited for HT use. First and foremost, the cabinet design and front-facing drivers on these are a natural fit for the HT arena. Second, the lighting is rearward-facing, so using a pair of these speakers for front channels will bring an adjustable backlight to your display -- good news for those who want to produce better perceived contrast. From our mangled Japanese translation, the YST001 seems to be a combination of Yamaha's NS-M125 bookshelf speakers and a speaker stand with integrated lighting from Koizumi. Nice idea -- and the design seems to have avoided the gimmick of dynamic, colored backlights -- but ideally we'd like to see the speakers positioned closer to ear level. Read on for a couple of gallery shots.

[Via CyberTheater]

Continue reading Yamaha's YST001 shimmies into the speaker-lamp niche

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13/06/2008 - iPort's in-wall iPod system gets upgraded with iPhone support

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Though we'd have to say this introduction was made just a hair too late, iPort has just introduced a revamped version of its in-wall iPod system that will accommodate the original iPhone. More specifically, each of the firm's five models features a re-designed faceplate that plays nice with Apple's older cellphone and all existing touch-wheel iPods. Aside from that, you're still looking at the same whole home approach to distributing iPhone / iPod content, and while we can't say for sure that the iPhone 3G will work outright, there's nothing that a little Dremel can't fix.

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12/06/2008 - Sky HD service goes live in New Zealand

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Just under two months after Freeview HDTV launched in New Zealand, in comes word that the long-awaited Sky HD service has done likewise. Dubbed My Sky HDi, the service is hosting (at least initially) Sky Sports 1, Sky Sports 2, Sky Movies, Sky Movies Greats and TV3 in high-definition. Those who are already subscribed to My Sky can make the very worthwhile leap to high-def by handing over $49.95 for the revamped (and doubly capacious) set-top-box. Reportedly, those who join will see 104 live sporting events in HD before the close of 2009, and Sky has already secured the rights to both the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver and the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. For more details on the whole thing, just give that read link a little love.
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12/06/2008 - Vizio, SRS partner up to wow you

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SRS Labs and Vizio partner to wow you
Turns out that not everybody is lawyer-angry with Vizio right now. The company has entered a partership with SRS Labs that will give it access to SRS's portfolio of audio technologies. Fruits of the partnership will start showing up in Q2 of 2008, when Vizio starts making SRS TruSurround XT available in three models: a 42- and 46-inch LCD, and a 50-inch plasma. Not exactly new, TruSurround XT is all about virtual surround sound; that audio we sometimes find phasey and unnatural to the point where it decreases our involvement with the content. But Vizio and SRS have data to back up their strategy: a Consumer Electronics Association poll showed that 76-percent of all flat panels are used without any external audio. We're used to being a minority opinion, but we don't understand the widespread fear over multiple discrete speakers in the room, especially with the rash of stylish HTIB systems now available. If you're in that 76-percent crowd, we suppose virtual surround is better than mono; but you're missing out.
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07/06/2008 - Klipsch intros new Icon W series speakers

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Klipsch Icon WF-35 speakers
Look at this -- another 2-channel stalwart company that has made the transition to the living room-as-theater world. Klipsch has introduced its Icon W speaker lineup, a traditionally designed (and we think, quite handsome) series that fills in the approximately $2,500 price point for a 5-channel (sans sub) setup. Klipsch has always been associated with horn-loaded drivers, and the tradition continues with the 1-inch Tractrix Horn tweeter deployed across the lineup. And here's something we like -- a naming convention that makes sense. The floorstanding WF-34 and WF-35 (pictured) floorstanders add in three of the 4.5-inch and 5.25-inch woofers, respectively. The WC-24 center channel and WS-24 surrounds use two of the 4.5-inch woofers; we'll let you guess the driver compliment on the WB-14 bookshelf model. Look for these at your local Magnolia store, with "per pair" prices from $499 on the WC-24 center to $1,499 on the WF-35.
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07/06/2008 - Bang & Olufsen's BeoVision 9, now graced with Automatic Color Management

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Bang & Olufsen Automatic Color Management
We all know the angst that comes when you're sitting in front of your ISF-calibrated Kuro plasma, and the only thing separating you from the next rung of video nirvana is recalibrating right now. Rest easy, George Jetson, Bang & Olufsen has brought its Automatic Color Management, previously seen in the BeoVision 4, to the top-of-the-line BeoVision 9 plasma. The 50-inch plasma display that already has an integrated center channel speaker with an acoustic lens will be adding the auto-calibration feature in July. You'll definitely notice the added feature -- every 120 hours of viewing, a robotic arm with a camera (pictured) will flip down from the top of the display, take a white balance measurement, and adjust the set accordingly. Sounds great, but no word in the press release regarding pricing or an upgrade of the panel to 1080p. Seeing as the outgoing version of the BeoVision 9 goes for about $20,000, would that be too much to ask?
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04/06/2008 - JBL Control NOW speakers for sound in the round

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JBL Control NOW speakers
Corner placement of your speakers can bring some serious challenges, which makes the design of JBL's new Control NOW speakers all the more interesting. The quarter-torus shape is designed to fit right into the nook between two perpendicular walls -- perfect for those rear surround channels. The speakers feature JBL's Bi-Radial 0.75-inch horn tweeter flanked by two 4-inch drivers, and deliver a respectable 80Hz - 30kHz response. What could be better than a pair of these speakers? Multiple units that can are merged into half, three-quarter or even full rounds, that's what! Available, um, now at $249 each, with a ready-for-outdoors NOW AW model arriving next month for $30 more.
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02/06/2008 - Integra introduces DTR-5.9 A/V receiver

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It seems like just yesterday that we were looking longingly at the DTR-5.8, and lo and behold, Integra has already dished out the DTR-5.9 to take its place. Apparently the unit is being aimed squarely at custom installers, but who's to say you can't snatch one up and do a little "installing" yourself? The mid-range unit packs the same HDMI 1.3a repeaters and high resolution audio processing as the DTR-5.8, but there's two more HDMI inputs, 1080i upscaling over HDMI and Audyssey's new Dynamic EQ loudness compensation technology added in on this bugger. If you're curious about power, you'll find seven-channels piping out 90-watts per into 8-ohms or 110-watts per into 6-ohms. Check it out right now for around $800.

[Via eCoustics]

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01/06/2008 - Australian market first to get recordable Blu-ray player outside of Japan

Panasonic is to roll-out sales of a range of Blu-ray recorders in Australia, making it only the second country after Japan to receive the devices.
A 500GB Twin High Definition Tuner and VIERA Link model is to go on sale this month as well as various lower-spec recorders, the first 46” plasma TV and new 37” Full HD LCD TV models.
Paul Reid, Panasonic Australia’s Director for Consumer Electronics Group, described the move as a “significant breakthrough” for Blu-ray.

31/05/2008 - Hauppauge HD-PVR now shipping

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The wait has been long, but according to one particular fellow who pre-ordered a Hauppauge HD-PVR, these puppies are finally leaving the dock. Just yesterday, his credit card was at long last charged the $249 required to take one home, and according to company sales, 500 or so have already had shipping labels applied, with another 500 expected to ship before June 4th. We're hearing that the hold-up had something to do with a faulty power supply, but regardless of the cause, folks who've been waiting patiently can finally look forward to pushing patience aside.

[Via TVSquad]
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25/05/2008 - Earthquake Sound launches SweetSpot in-ceiling speakers

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Earthquake Sound
If the THX badge on Klipsch's announced in-ceiling speakers moved them out of your price range, the new SweetSpot lineup from Earthquake Sound might be a better fit. Based on the company's name alone, you might think it only produced subwoofers; not so, dear reader. The SS-82W and SS-62W in-ceiling models boast 8- and 6-inch drivers, respectively, and promise to keep the sound focused rather than spraying it everywhere like some other in-ceiling solutions. We'll give credit for this to the angled baffle and swiveling 1-inch tweeter and leave aside the fact that a tightly focused delivery might negatively impact surround channel performance. There are also tonal adjustments for the mid-bass and treble to help dial in performance. Claimed response covers 30Hz - 30kHz, and the SS-82W is available for $399 per speaker (no pricing info yet on the SS-62W).
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23/05/2008 - Denon rolls out updates across 10 receiver models

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Denon logoBecause it covers just about every price point in its receiver lineup and doesn't want to leave anybody feeling slighted, Denon is bringing updates to 10 models in the heart of its offerings. The company is emphasizing bang-for-your-buck in the AVR-589 ($299), AVR-689 ($399), AVR-789 ($599), AVR-889 ($749), AVR-989 ($1199), AVR-1909 ($649), AVR-2309CI ($849) and AVR-2809CI ($1199). It's a good-looking refresh: on the video side, the emphasis on more HDMI 1.3a inputs and 1080p video upscaling. On the audio side, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA decoding, Audyssey room tuning (MultiEQ) and volume regulation (Dynamic EQ and Dynamic Volume) get sprinkled through the lineup liberally. All this goodness should be finding its way to your dealer soon; expected availability is July. If you're in the market for a new receiver, hit the link for the details and decide if you want to wait on these new models or score a deal on the outgoing ones.
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22/05/2008 - Sony intros HT-CT100 sound bar / subwoofer combo

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If Sony's diminutive new HT-IS100 HTIB is still too large for your hole in the wall, the HT-CT100 is probably your last hope at "surround sound." The sound bar itself is designed to be mounted beneath one's flat-panel and packs a trio of drivers which receive 50-watts each. As for the subbie, it gets a respectable 100-watts of its own. The system handles Dolby Digital / Dolby Pro Logic II / DTS signals and comes with three HDMI / optical digital audio jacks, a coaxial digital audio port, analog audio connectors and a remote to boot. Not a clue if this one's coming to America (though we have all ideas it will in time), but those in Tokyo can snag one in mid-July for ¥50,000 ($491).

[Via Impress]
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22/05/2008 - Sony's 5.1-channel HT-IS100 HTIB touts golf ball-sized satellites

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It's a common issue: you're looking to get a bona fide surround sound system, but you've no room for any monstrous towers or bulky bookshelf surrounds. Enter Sony's latest HTIB, the HT-IS100. Featuring a 200-watt subwoofer complemented by five "golf ball-sized" satellites that get 45-watts apiece, the system supports Dolby Digital / Dolby Pro Logic II / DTS and comes with a handy remote. As for the port selection, you'll find a trio of HDMI and optical digital audio jacks, coaxial digital audio, composite (x2) and stereo outs as well. Unfortunately, there's no telling when the set will be coming Stateside (though launches in North America and Europe are promised), but those in Japan can look for it on June 25th for ¥90,000 ($883).

[Via AP]
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22/05/2008 - Omnilab to build HD studio for Movie Network Channels

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Hear this, Australians: we know you're pretty stoked about the forthcoming launch of Foxtel's high-def services, but a few more stations could be on the way shortly. Reportedly, post facility Omnilab Media has landed a long-term agreement with Movie Network Channels that will see an HD studio constructed for the channels. Currently, Omnilab handles all post-production work for MNC, which consists of Movie One, Movie Two, Movie Extra and Movie Greats -- all of which are seen on Foxtel. If all goes well, the facility will be completed in August, but what exactly it plans on using the sweet new equipment for remains to be seen.
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19/05/2008 - Mythos Audio unveils Olon speakers

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Mythos Audio Olon
Pretty striking speakers, right? The Mythos Audio Olon speakers definitely have a "love 'em or hate 'em" appearance, but you've got to respect the work. From the pics, we wouldn't have guessed the cabinets are made out of stacked plywood -- they look a lot better than anything we ever made in wood shop! Weighing in at over 220-pounds, Mythos didn't skimp on the drivers, either. With Scanspeak for the tweeter and midrange, Visaton for the woofer, and a Mundorf Air Motion Transducer super-tweeter (we haven't seen an AMT since some ESS Heil speakers back in the day), these beasts will outperform your ears: 18Hz - 40kHz. It turns out "olon" is Greek for "the whole." Yeah, no kidding. Crazy, imposing and an unnamed unpriced -- we love it.

[Via AudioJunkies]
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