280W of that comes from the class D amplifier in the subwoofer, which automatically adapts its output to the shape and size of the room. Each of the satellite speakers gets 140W to play with, and tips the scales at 800g. Formed from pressure-treated aluminum – in fact 170 tons of pressure is involved – they can be fitted with a choice of six colored fabric fronts.

The subwoofer body comes in white only, though the top fabric section can be switched out to match with your decor. Hooking up to a B&O surround-capable TV is a matter of plugging in the A/V multi connector, but you can also use an A/V receiver and any other brand of TV or projector.

Since you might not want to hide the vase-like sub under a table or behind the sofa, as per many blockish rivals, B&O includes a “positioning dial” which can quickly set it to the right sort of settings for whether it’s in the corner, against a wall or bookcase, or in the middle of the floor. There’s also peak volume protection, so that none of the cones burst from unexpected highs.

B&O says the BeoLab 14 surround sound speaker system is on sale globally this week, priced at €2,995 ($3,855).

Hardware

What VIZIO delivers with this system is a fully ready-for-action system, the box containing both the cables for the speakers and the gear necessary for your to mount the speakers if you do so desire. Of course you’ve also got the option to set the bar at the base of your television if you’ve got it on a television tablet station, and your subwoofer certainly needs to sit on a flat surface.

But your satellite speakers just beg to be hooked up to the corners of your room, angled directly at your head, and so forth. In the box you’ve got two satellite wall mount brackets with the attachment screws you’ll need to mount the satellite speakers to them. These satellite speakers aren’t wireless, you should note, each of them need to be connected to the sound bar in order to blast sound. The wireless connection exists between the subwoofer and the sound bar – up to 60 feet of space can exist between them – though the signal is best under 30 feet, and in the clear, too.

Once you have the wireless connection in place, each satellite speaker is connected to the subwoofer with a single RCA cable. The sound bar is also able to be connected to your television with as little as a single cable, if you like. The back of the bar has a USB port, a digital optical audio in, coaxial in, a single analog audio in port and a set of analog audio in ports.

Each of these inputs are seen by the sound bar as a different option accessible by the set of buttons on the far left of the unit or through the system’s remote control. Because of this, you’re able to connect several devices to the bar at once, choosing between them if you’ve got a need for such a thing.

Button controls on the side of the sound bar include five separate clickers, one each for power, input, and Bluetooth input, with one button for volume up and one for down. You’re able to “wake” the system from its low power “sleep” after it’s not been in use for an extended time by pressing the power button or by tapping a volume up or down button. This set of buttons is easy to get used to, but we’d have preferred some physical differentiator between the set to more easily tap at once.

The remote control works with a digital display that contains one of our other – admittedly very few – complaints in that it doesn’t seem to light up enough to be read in the dark. While it’s nice to be able to see which option is being selected, in-the-dark movie adjustments will be limited to what you’ve memorized for controls. If that’s just volume adjustments and track controls, you’ll be good to go. The controller itself is a conveniently small size and has a soft-plastic bottom, making it a comfortable experience – and again, one easy to get used to for sound control.

Sound

Each channel in this system’s surround speakers works with 1 x 2.5″ full-range driver. The subwoofer works with a 6″ throw (high excursion) driver and the full system has 102dB sound pressure with what VIZIO says is less than 1% total harmonic distortion. The sound bar works with 3 channels, left and right, each of the three tweeters coming in at 3/4” each. This the system is rounded out with a set of Center Channel 2 x 2.5 full-range drivers.

You’ve got a pack of software compliments to the hardware delivery here with features like DTS Circle Surround, DTS TruVolume, and Dolby Digital / DTS Digital Surround for audio decoding. Needless to say, this system can get loud. There’s really no arguing that.

The delivery you’re going to get with this setup depends a lot on the machine you’ve got feeding it, of course, but in testing each of the inputs with different devices – and not just televisions – we’ve found the end product to be generally well balanced. If you’ve got a child sleeping in the room next to your television attached to a VIZIO S4251w 5.1 Sound Bar system, you may have trouble finding a balance between too quiet and too loud.

Adjusting for bass, moving the sound around to the system’s satellites, and taking a bit of time to optimize the sound for your chosen room will correct for this sort of situation. Also helping with this situation is DTS TruVolume – made specifically to provide a consistent volume no matter the media. Making sure you understand how to work with TruVolume as well as this system’s adjustment abilities is vital for a superior sound experience.

Wrap-up

This system delivers the best of what your HDTV, stereo, or any other sound-blasting device is capable of. The VIZIO S4251w 5.1 Sound Bar system delivers an immersive sound experience that’s not just good for the relatively inexpensive package it’s delivered to the market with: it’s worth more than it costs ($329.99 USD, if you’d like to know). It’s not often that we can say such a thing for a device here in an age when a product is replaced by a newer, more powerful version of itself in no time flat: VIZIO delivers a product you’ll be satisfied with for many years to come.

Sound quality is something you’re not going to want to skip when you’re aiming for a full home theater experience. VIZIO delivers a powerful solution in the S4251w 5.1 Sound Bar system, one that’s not to be overlooked.

The company’s reluctance to extend itself beyond musical speakers has been down to a fear of losing focus: the audience is still dedicated music lovers, Sonos says, but concedes that many in that audience also love films. Meanwhile, while display technology has advanced hugely, skinny flat-panel TV sets have squeezed speakers into something of an afterthought, thus opening the door to hardware like the PLAYBAR.

All-in-one speakers aren’t new, of course, but PLAYBAR does some things differently. That starts with setup: there’s wireless onboard, for the easiest way of connecting, but you also get a pair of ethernet ports on the back for wired networks (and for passing the connection through, say, to your smart TV, or being the first node hard-wired to your router for an overall Sonos installation). Otherwise there’s just power and an optical digital input – no HDMI, since Sonos expects the TV to remain the “brains” in charge of switching and managing media – along with the usual three physical buttons for mute and volume up/down which are on one end of the bar.

When you first set up, the PLAYBAR can learn the volume buttons on your favorite remote (whether that be for your TV, your Blu-ray player, or your set-top box). Out of the box there’s presets for the popular brands/models – most users will just have to press the volume-up key for the PLAYBAR to recognize it – but there’s also a nine-key-press learning mode for new sets. Cleverly, Sonos collects up those programming settings and updates them across all PLAYBAR units, meaning the next user with the same remote won’t have to go through the teaching process. On the back of the soundbar there’s a broad IR repeater strip, just in case placing the PLAYBAR in front of your TV blocks its IR receiver, and there are two IR windows on the Sonos itself, catering for table or wall mounting.

Back when the PLAYBAR was first spotted sneaking through the FCC, there was speculation as to what its dual wireless chipsets might be used for. As the company explained to us, it’s all down to latency – or the avoidance of it – in surround sound mode. The PLAYBAR has one regular WiFi chip to hook up to the network as per all Sonos speakers, but also has a second, ultra-low-latency chip which is used to maintain up to three perfectly-synchronized channels in a surround setup, feeding two PLAY:3 rear speakers and a SUB subwoofer.

As for the speakers inside the PLAYBAR itself, there are six mid-woofers and three tweeters, the latter spread across the outer edges and one in the middle. At normal volumes, the woofers are synchronized, but they can automatically shift out of phase if required – complete with some clever DSP – to avoid distortion when you crank up the audio. Sonos has also equipped the PLAYBAR with completely different settings for music and movies (in fact they automatically change depending on physical orientation, too).

Most importantly, in either mode, it sounds great. Music has a surprising degree of precision, with vocals coming through clearly in the center while the rest of the soundstage has a spread that belies the placing of the speakers. Movies, meanwhile, go even further: the virtual surround you get with the PLAYBAR alone is impressively effective, and the bass has some decent thump to it (given the limitations of the 36 x 5.5 x 3.4 inch footprint and the speakers Sonos has been able to fit), but group it up with a couple of PLAY:3 rear channels and the SUB, and it’s both incredibly loud and precise.

Sonos PLAYBAR overvew video:

Control, as you’d expect, is via Sonos’ existing PC, Mac, iOS, and Android apps: the PLAYBAR shows up as a regular zone, which means you can group it up for party music. However, there’s a little extra consideration for the TV focus there too; if you try to add the PLAYBAR to a group, it’ll double-check to make entirely sure you want to do that, and if you start playback on your TV, the soundbar will automatically switch to whatever is coming through its optical input. You can, though, manually change the audio while leaving the screen on, handy if you want to show a photo slideshow with music from, say Spotify.

The Sonos PLAYBAR will go on sale on March 5, priced at $699 in the US, £599 in the UK, and €699 in Europe.

That’s right, it’s made out of ceramic (porcelain, to be exact) and is also compatible with AirPlay. Plus, the octagonal shape of the speaker serves a crucial feature. By simply rolling the speaker to one of its six sides, it’ll change the audio channel of the surround sound. For example, you can lay it on one side to use it as a right-rear speaker, or roll it to another side to change it to a center speaker.

Obviously, the speaker has six different audio channels in total. The other four are right speaker, left speaker, left-rear speaker, and mono mode. In order to accomplish the change in the audio channel with a roll of the speaker, it has built-in motion sensors on the inside that detect when the speaker is at what position, and then activates the appropriate audio channel.

Obviously, porcelain breaks fairly easily when dropped, so we’re not sure how durable the speaker is, but it’s nice to see products being made out of porcelain other than toilets and Chinese dolls. Plus, the speaker looks incredibly nice and it would definitely look good sitting on anyone’s speaker shelf.

The Unmonday 4.3L speaker has special pre-order price of $499, with an estimated regular price of $700. Currently, the speaker still has 7 days to go in its Kickstarter campaign, which is where you can pre-order it now for the special $499. While the speaker shows as not yet reaching its funding goals, the company has said it received $1 million from a private investor, so the project is a go.

The Ear Force X42 and Ear Force X32 use dual-band WiFi along with large 50mm drives. The X42 supports surround sound and is priced at $160. The X32 does not and is priced at $100. The Ear Force Z11 for PC gamers features acoustically-angled 50mm drivers and is priced at $40.

Turtle Beach also will be debuting the updated DSS2 Dolby Surround Sound processor that offers six variable speaker configurations and supports stereo headsets. The sound processor costs $80 and can be bundled with a surround sound headset.

The M-series mobile device headsets will include the M5 for $50, the M3 for $40, and the M1 ear buds for $60. Both the M5 and M3 sport 40mm drivers with in-line mics, but the M3 can also fold for easy traveling. The M1 earbuds features 10mm drivers with neodymium magnets, noise-cancelling technology, and in-inline remote.

[via iPodNN]

Unlike Samsung’s 7.1-channel home theater system from earlier today, the LG BH9420PW manages 9.1-channels of audio. The traditional 5.1 speakers are paired with a further four Upright 3D Speakers, targeting audio upward, while a reflector system inside the four shunts sound in all directions.

LG reckons that’s enough to create “acoustics as rich as those in a concert hall” but we’d be pleased with just the broadened “sweet spot” that’s apparently another result of the clever DSP. That means more listeners can hear the full 3D surround effect.

Smart TV integration – with streaming widgets, internet updates and more – is provided, including access to 3D content. No word on pricing, but the LG BH9420PW is set to arrive in stores come March 2012. The rest of LG’s new home theater range will be revealed at CES next week.

That WiFi connection allows the HT-E6730W to access social networks like Facebook and Twitter, browse websites and use Samsung Apps for other content. It’s functionality shared by the Samsung HT-E5500W 3D Blu-ray Home Theater System, a 5.1-channel setup with twin HDMI 1.4a inputs, iPhone/iPod dock, “Disc to Digital” feature for ripping DVDs to digital copies (when the DRM permits it), and upscaling from DVD, streaming or other digital media to 1080p.

Finally there’s the Samsung HW-E550 Surround Sound Bar, three slender rods making up a 2.1-channel system with virtual surround sound and proprietary 5.2/5.8GHz wireless connectivity between the upright left/right channel speakers and the primary soundbar. A separate subwoofer handles the bass.

The HW-E550 gets twin HDMI inputs and an HDMI output, Bluetooth and USB. No word on pricing or availability for any of the three systems; we’ll have to wait until SlashGear heads out to CES for that.

The long range wireless technology is what makes this all possible. The body is weather resistant, and has a built in 8 inch subwoofer, a 100 watt digital amplifier, and it has a backlit top panel for local control. The iCast transmitter is included for wirelessly connecting your iPod or MP3 player. It can also stream music from Mac or PC and can take advantage of internet sources like Pandora and Rhapsody. Its zone 2 output is even compatible with legacy audio devices.

The internal battery will yield 10 to 20 hours of wireless music depending on the volume level. It has a good design that will match just about any setting from a backyard barbeque to just hanging out in the living room. It is available from select distributors and retailers. No pricing is listed on their site or in the press release, but these are pretty high-end and will likely have a high-end price tag to match.

Press release:

CHULA VISTA, Calif., June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Wait till the music lovers hear this. Soundcast Systems, developer of high performance wireless audio systems and products, announces its new OutCast 3.4 multi-room, multi-source wireless speaker system with subwoofer just in time for summertime home and outdoor entertaining. Your music affordably enjoyed wherever you are—with no wires!

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110610/NY17975 )

Wireless is in. Affordable is in. Portable is in. iPod®/iPhone® access and control is in. So Outcast 3.4 is in! The new system is destined to be the most utilized speaker you’ll ever own, and Soundcast is happy to shout its hefty claim.

OutCast 3.4′s technology lets you easily access and enjoy up to 3-sources of your favorite music in up to 4 separate areas of your home or business. Heck yes, listen both in and outdoors!

The OutCast 3.4 has a powerful wireless broadcast range of up to 300-feet. Clear, precise transmissions easily travel through walls, doors, floors, ceilings and roofs. You enjoy rich, multi-directional, uninterrupted sound anywhere and anytime.

Additional features include:

Tri-amplified, high-definition audio reproduction w/DSP
Long-range, interference-free wireless technology
Internal battery provides 10-to-20 hours of wireless music (+/- power level)
Easy to use backlit top panel keypad for control

You set the stage and command performance with the built-in smart control system. In addition to allowing 3-source music selection and control for your iPod/iPhone/MP3/PC or Mac personal music library, take advantage of Pandora®, Rhapsody®, iTunes®, Radio, HD Radio, Cable Music and even legacy audio sources for the receivers’ zone 2 output. Like magic, music you choose is sent to each Soundcast 3.4-equipped listening area (zone).

Inputs include two digital optical ports, a single digital coax, six channels of direct analog, RCA and a 3.5mm stereo socket. Up to six devices can be hooked up at a single time, and there’s a bundled infrared remote to control the whole thing.

Each of the surround speakers can be wall mounted, for a more discrete installation, and the control box is stackable so that you can slot it in with your cable tuner and Blu-ray deck. Pricing is set to be $349.99 when the 5.1 system goes on sale imminently.

Panasonic has clad the SC-HTB520 in a fingerprint-resistent black mesh and mirror-finish enclosure, and the various drivers semi-hidden behind create a virtual surround sound experience. As for the Blu-ray 3D systems, they pack integrated WiFi for VIERA Cast and BD-Live, along with a universal iPhone/iPod dock.

The BTT770 and BTT370 also throw in wireless rear speaker support (bundled with the flagship unit, a $129.95 option on the mid-range model), a down-firing subwoofer and Skype support with the optional camera. The Panasonic SC-HTB520 will be priced at $399.99 when it arrives next month, while the Panasonic SC-BTT770, SC-BTT370 and SC-BTT270 will be priced at $599.99, $499.99 and $399.99 respectively.

Press Release:

PANASONIC ANNOUNCES PRICE OF SLIM BAR AUDIO SYSTEM WITH WIRELESS SUBWOOFER AND 3D PASS THROUGH

SECAUCUS, NJ (March 1, 2011) — Panasonic today announced pricing of its new slim bar home theater speaker system, SC-HTB520, which will be available next month. The elegant system neatly mounts on a wall by a TV and offers an easy-to-install, stylish alternative to a conventional home theater sound system. The SC-HTB520 supports Stream Out for 3D image signals and Audio Return Channel, making it easy to configure a FULL HD 3D home theater system by combining it with a 3D Blu-ray DiscTM player and 3D VIERA TV. The SC-HTB520 ideally matches large panel displays 42-inches and above and includes a separate, wireless Down Firing subwoofer.

The front of the SC-HTB520 features a black stainless mesh material with a luxurious mirror finish and a special coating that resists dust and fingerprints. A unique design concept boosts the ambience of the SC-HTB520′s high-quality sounds by making the speaker units partially visible through the mesh, so listeners can almost visualize the sound.

The SC-HTB520 system delivers dialog that is crisp and clear. This is made possible by the Clear-Mode Dialog, which makes the sound seem like it is coming from the center of the TV display. With more precise linking of the picture and the sound, the result is clean, pure sound for dialog voices on video and vocals on music. Virtual surround technology also reproduces surround sounds from the front speakers that seem to wrap around the listening position. And dynamic, deep bass sounds are achieved by the Down Firing Subwoofer. The subwoofer is equipped with a wireless system, so there is no need to connect it to the main unit by cables. Lack of wiring keeps the room interior uncluttered and enables a simple and flexible layout.

Connection and installation could not be easier, thanks to the system’s compatibility with ARC* (Audio Return Channel), which allows receiving audio signals from the TV. Simply place it by the television or wall mount for a custom installation (via supplied wall mounts) and connect it with just one HDMI cable.

The SC-HTB520 will be available in April 2011 with a suggested retail price of $399.99.

* An ARC-compatible TV is required.

About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company
Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company (PCEC), a market and technology leader in High Definition television, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic’s U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth’s natural resources and protect our environment through the company’s Eco Ideas programs. Information about Panasonic products is available at www.panasonic.com. Additional company information for journalists is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

Press Release:

PANASONIC ANNOUNCES PRICING AND AVAILABILITY FOR NEW BLU-RAY 3D HOME THEATER SYSTEMS

SECAUCUS, NJ (March 1, 2011) – Panasonic, a leader in Full HD 3D technology, today announced pricing of its new Full HD 3D Blu-ray Disc™ home theater systems which employ advanced technologies to reproduce immersive 3D with superb picture quality, cinema-like surround sound and boast 3D Effect Controller, Universal Dock for iPod®/iPhone® and Skype™1 compatibility. All models from entry-level up feature built-in WiFi connectivity.

The new models, SC-BTT770, SC-BTT370 and SC-BTT270 deliver advanced sound quality that complements the dynamic 3D images. Based on the concept of reproducing an ideal cinema- like surround sound environment, Panasonic’s proprietary technology, called Cinema Surround Plus, compensates for the lack of a surround effect to provide natural smooth surround sound and offers an enhanced surround effect from above and around.

Featuring Panasonic’s renowned Full HD 3D Playback, the new systems not only deliver powerful 3D images with dramatic effects, enhanced depth, luster and texture, but allow the user to tailor the image display as desired. The 3D Effect Controller adjusts the amount of the depth effect for more expansive images and enables the viewer to enjoy 3D movies with exactly the preferred level of 3D effects.

For space-saving elegance, the sleek, ultra-slim main component measures only a mere 1.5 inches high. The systems are designed to ideally match a flat panel display. The new table-top design of the SC-BTT370 offers easy set-up and will add style to any home setting.

The SC-BTT770 is equipped with rear wireless speakers and wireless kit so there is no need for unsightly wires across the room. The SC-BTT370 is wireless-ready and can be upgraded to provide wireless rear audio with the addition of the optional SH-FX71 wireless kit for rear speakers ($129.95).

The top two models SC-BTT770 and SC-BTT370 feature VIERA CAST™ with Skype™ a new function which allows users to connect with friends and family around the world on any compatible TV. And when they are not home, a convenient Auto Answering Video Message feature answers incoming calls and records video voicemail messages.

Models SC-BTT770 and SC-BTT370 include a down-firing subwoofer, which achieves powerful bass by releasing the sound downward from the speaker unit and port and utilizes the sound reflected from the floor. These models are equipped with one HDMI output and two HDMI inputs with Standby Pass through for HD and 3D gaming and set-top box connections. Since they feature a Standby Pass Through function, signals from the connected devices can pass through the unit even when the home theater system is turned off.

All of the home theater systems feature Audio Return Channel (ARC*), which makes it possible to receive audio signals from the TV, on top of the preexisting HDMI function of sending audio/video signals to the TV with just one cable. This feature simplifies connection by eliminating the audio cable connection between the TV audio output and the main unit’s audio input.

All of the new systems feature a Universal Dock for iPod/iPhone** which employs a digital connection to minimize sound degradation. This lets the user play music and video downloads and enjoy high quality sound from an iPod/iPhone.

The new models boast improved easy-to-use features, such as an internal wireless LAN system so IP content, such as VIERA CAST2 and BD-Live, can be enjoyed without having a LAN cable*** connection. VIERA CAST has been further enhanced with CinemaNow and Vudu, allowing viewers to stream movies. Other content can also be accessed from the special VIERA CAST screen to check weather, stocks and other information.

Panasonic’s Blu-ray 3D home theater systems bring a new dimension to home entertainment and will be available in April 2011. The SC-BTT770 will carry a suggested retail price (SRP) of $599.99. The SC-BTT370 will have an SRP of $499.99, and the SC-BTT270 will have an SRP of $399.99.

1 Skype video calling requires access to a broadband Internet connection as well as a Skype-compatible camera available from Panasonic, sold separately, to make video calls.

2 Not all VIERA CAST features are available on both VIERA Connect-enabled VIERA® HDTVs and VIERA CAST-enabled Blu-ray DiscTM players due to specific requirements necessary to activate certain applications. Specific app availabilities and compatibilities will be announced at a later date. Access to a broadband Internet connection is required to access VIERA CAST features. There is no fee to use the VIERA CAST functionality however some VIERA CAST services such as Netflix and Amazon VOD have a separate fee structure.

* An ARC compatible TV is required.

** “Made for iPod” and “Made for iPhone” mean that an electronic accessory has been designed to connect specifically to iPod or iPhone respectively, and has been certified by the developer to meet Apple performance standards. Apple is not responsible for the operation of this device or its compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Please note that the use of this accessory with iPod or iPhone may affect wireless performance. iPhone, iPod, iPod classic, iPod nano and iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

***A wireless LAN environment is required.

About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company
Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company (PCEC), a market and technology leader in High Definition television, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic’s U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth’s natural resources and protect our environment through the company’s Eco Ideas programs. Information about Panasonic products is available at www.panasonic.com. Additional company information for journalists is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

Pricing for the chairs depend on which features you’re looking for. Their basic Sound Egg with 2.1 will feature a 2.1 amplifier, 5 speakers, 1 subwoofer, foam and an uncovered plastic seat and will retail for $1450. Their higher end 5.1 will feature a 5.1 amplifier in place of the 2.1 and will retail for $1850.

When ordering you can customize your color scheme with 11 different colored foam options and 3 shell options. The is currently shipping both the 2.1 and 5.1 systems.

The 33-percent discount on the MicroConsole is valid until Sunday Jan 9 at 11:59 PM PST; buyers still get a free game and free PlayPack Beta. OnLive has also confirmed that games will be resumable across the various devices supporting the platform; so, you’ll be able to start a title on your MicroConsole, pause it, then pick up again on the iPad client, the PC or Mac client, or even one of Vizio’s new OnLive-compatible VIA HDTVs.

The two home theater setups have USB inputs for creating MP3s from CDs (you’re bound to get a few in your Christmas stocking) along with dual HDMI inputs, WiFi, ethernet and an iPod/iPhone dock. The HX996TS packs 7.2-channel speakers and a 1280W amp, while the HB906SB makes do with 5.1-channel and 1100W.

As for the BD960, that has a 250GB hard-drive, 3D Blu-ray support and WiFi, and can act as both a DLNA client and server for wireless media streaming. Like the two home theater systems it supports LG’s Mobile Remote App, and all three units get access to the company’s LG App Store and streaming content. No word on pricing, but all three should go on sale in early 2011.

Press Release:

LG to unveil complete range of superior 3D AV devices at CES 2011

New 3D Home Theater Systems and Network Blu-ray 3D Disc™ Players Deliver Optimum Technology for Complete 3D Entertainment Experience

SEOUL, Dec. 23, 2010 –- LG Electronics (LG) is set to greatly expand the 3D home entertainment experience as it unveils a full range of 3D AV devices at CES 2011 in Las Vegas. The showpiece 3D devices include the HX996TS, a Real 3D Sound Home Theater System; the HB906SB, a premium Blu-ray 3D DiscTM Home Theater System; and the BD690, a Network Blu-ray 3D Disc™ Player that delivers the perfect 3D entertainment experience for every occasion and setting.

“3D entertainment is set to explode in the year ahead and LG is setting the pace with our new 3D AV line-up,” said Havis Kwon, President and CEO of LG Home Entertainment Company. “From picture to connectivity to sound, we’ve tailored all our products to produce the best 3D home entertainment experience possible and we’re eager to show these off at the largest consumer electronics show in the world.”

The HX996TS, LG’s Real 3D Sound Home Theater System, complements 3D home entertainment with a sound as deep and lifelike as any 3D image. Its innovative new approach to audio includes the Vertical 3D Effect Channel, which works by emitting sound through the tops of the system’s four Tallboy Speakers. The resulting audio waves completely fill the space above viewers’ heads, creating the illusion that they’re right in the middle of the movie. The HX996TS was the recipient of a 2011 CES Innovations Honoree Awards.

The HB906SB, a premium Blu-ray 3D Disc™ Home Theater System, is the ideal platform for bringing 3D films to life. Boasting 1,100 watts of output, the HB906SB’s lush, powerful sound can be tailored to users’ needs with the seven different modes of LG’s signature Sound Gallery, which is further strengthened by LG’s new Digital
Signal Processing (DSP).

Both of LG’s new Home Theater Systems have superb connectivity with full support for USB recordings and HDMI. They also support built-in Wi-Fi applications, iPod/iPhone dock cradle, and a number of options for providing superior sound for 3D HDTVs and a other home entertainment devices.

Lastly, the BD690, a Network Blu-ray 3D Disc™ Player, provides the ultimate companion to HDTV with Blu-ray 2D and 3D Disc™ playback and an on-board digital media library. Additionally, the BP650 Network Blu-ray 3D Disc™ Player is a great portable option, with its compact design and internet and HDMI connectivity.

All of LG’s new 3D AV devices complement their first-class technology with slim and innovative designs. Audio files in most major markets will be able to experience LG’s new 3D AV devices starting in early 2011.

HX996TS Specifications:
· 7.2ch 1280W total output power with 3D sound
· LG Sound Gallery with parabolic speaker
· USB recording (MP3 file creation from music CD)
· 2 HDMI In (HDMI 1.4), ARC (Audio Return Channel)
· Firmware upgrade for advanced function and services
· External HDD playback (DivX HD, MKV)
· Music ID capture and streaming (Gracenote)
· iPod / iPhone cradle
· Wi-Fi direct, Ethernet, DLNA compliant
· Smart TV Technology: Premium Content and LG App. Store
· Mobile Remote App.

HB906SB Specifications:
· 5.1ch 1100W total output power
· LG Sound Gallery with parabolic speaker
· USB recording (MP3 file creation from music CD)
· 2 HDMI In (HDMI 1.4), ARC (Audio Return Channel)
· Firmware upgrade for advanced function and services
· External HDD playback (DivX HD, MKV)
· Music ID capture and streaming (Gracenote)
· iPod / iPhone cradle
· Wi-Fi direct, Ethernet, DLNA compliant
· Smart TV Technology: Premium Content and LG App. Store
· Mobile Remote App.

BD690 Specifications:
· Smart TV Technology: Premium Content and LG App. Store
· Store Digital Media in Built-in HDD (250GB)
- Audio CD Archiving
- Photo Download
- User Made Contents Copy to HDD
· Blu-ray 3D Playback
· Built-in Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi) / Wi-Fi Direct
· Stored Contents Sharing
- Bi-Directional Content Sharing (DLNA Server and Client)
· Mobile Remote App.

The first of which is the PC 360. Sennheiser created these new headphones to be the direct successor of the hugely popular Sennheiser PC 350. The headphones feature a “top-notch” noise-cancelling microphone, as well as Sennheiser’s Open-Air speaker technology. The ear pads are made of velvet, and cover both ears, but they’re designed with an open design, making sure that they prevent artificial sounds from slipping in and ruining the whole experience. You’ll also find a quick access volume control, and you’ll be able to mute yourself by just raising the boom. The PC 360 will cost you $299.95.

While Sennheiser is pushing the previous headphones as their flagship model, it looks like the company put just as much effort into the surround sound, 3D headphones as well. The PC 163D features 7.1 channel, 360-degree coverage, and also features a noise-cancelling microphone. It also features Dolby Headphone technology. The PC 333D features the same technology, including the 7.1 channel surround sound. It also features a “DJ Hinge,” which means you’ll be able to swivel up the right cup quickly and easily, which will automatically mute it, and keep you talking with your fellow gamers in a more streamlined fashion.

And finally, the PC 330 G4ME headphones feature a closed acoustic set up, making sure that no sound from the outside world interrupts your gaming experience. The PC 330 G4ME headphones feature the same DJ Hinge as the aforementioned model, as well. As far as pricing goes, you can pick up the PC 163D for $209.95; the PC 333D for $239.95; and the PC 330 G4ME for just $169.95. And all of them are available now. Check out the full press release below for more information.

Press Release

Sennheiser launches an arsenal of innovative gaming headsets

New flagship model and two surround-sound headsets for 3D gaming

OLD LYME, Conn. – October 26, 2010: Audio specialist Sennheiser Communications introduces a new line of headsets designed for hardcore gamers. Heading up the line is the PC 360—the new flagship headset for pro gamers featuring Sennheiser’s acclaimed Open-Aire™ acoustics and an innovative microphone mute control. For an even more intense gaming experience, the PC 163D and PC 333D are equipped with Dolby® Headphone technology for immersive 7.1 surround sound virtualization. Rounding out the line, the PC 330 G4ME delivers DJ-inspired performance and quality for enthusiasts who take LAN parties as seriously as the professionals.

The Sennheiser PC 360 gaming headset (click on image for hi-res)
PC 360: Designed for pro gamers
As the follow-up to the hugely successful PC 350, the Sennheiser PC 360 has a lot to live up to—and it doesn’t disappoint. Sennheiser Open-Aire speaker technology and a top-notch noise-canceling microphone deliver outstanding hi-fi performance. Although the velvety-soft ear pads and large ear cups fully cover the ears, their open design prevents the artificial sound that can take the shine off even the most intense session. The natural sound also enhances music, movies and internet telephony.

But it’s the open acoustics and intuitive controls that will really get gamers’ pulses racing. The open design creates a more lifelike soundscape by allowing sound waves to expand and contract as they would in nature, and ensures continuous airflow to keep users cool. A quick-access volume control is integrated onto the right ear cup, allowing gamers to make volume adjustments quickly without breaking their concentration. To mute the microphone, just raise the boom.

The Sennheiser PC 163D gaming headset (click on image for hi-res)
PC 163D: A new dimension in 3D gaming at home
Sennheiser Communications’ PC 163D headset thrusts players headfirst into an extraordinary home gaming experience. The combination of powerful Sennheiser sound and Dolby® Headphone technology enables gamers to distinguish aural cues from all directions- not just left and right. The virtual 7.1 channel, 360-degree coverage allows players to hear footsteps behind a wall or detect the opponent’s position—allowing them to stay steps ahead of the competition.

Sennheiser Communications brought in professional gaming team mTw to fine-tune every last detail of the PC 163D—and it shows. Professional gamer Christoffer Sunde explains the benefits of 7.1-channel surround virtualization: “Thanks to the fantastic multi-channel experience, we can now pinpoint the in-game competitor just by the sound.”

The PC 163D is equipped with a noise-canceling microphone, ensuring your voice comes across clearly. An adjustable boom offers more comfort and flexibility during the game. The design, too, makes the PC 163D comfortable to use. The open build keeps players aware of what’s going on around them and guarantees continuous airflow to the ears. An integrated volume control allows gamers to adjust volume levels on the fly.

The Sennheiser PC 333D gaming headset (click on image for hi-res)
PC 333D: The new dimension in 3D tournament gaming
The PC 333D could be a game changer. For Sennheiser Communications, it’s certainly a statement of intent: to take professional-standard gaming and 3D movies to a new level of realism using high-end multi-channel technology. The PC 333D aims to bring the virtual soundscape alive with 7.1-channel surround sound simulation powered by Dolby® Headphone technology. For FPS enthusiasts used to the basic sound orientation of two-channel headsets, it’s a huge sensory jump.

The ultra-realism of multi-channel audio is not only enhanced by the closed-acoustic design, but also the excellent quality of the PC 333D’s speakers. The overall effect is a much more intense and immersive gaming experience. The PC 333D helps gamers register crucial sounds, and gain a better impression of where and how far away opponents are, and which way they are moving. Movie lovers will appreciate the extraordinary sound, which catapults them right into the action. It’s no exaggeration to say that the PC 333D takes the gaming and movie experience to a whole new level.

Sennheiser Communications’ tie-in with the world-class gamers at mTw clearly had a big influence on the professional look and feel of the PC 333D. One ear cup is fitted with a clever “DJ Hinge” that users can single-handedly swivel up to talk to people around them. The microphone automatically mutes when the boom is raised. In-game communication with teammates is just as comfortable and intuitive. The volume control is located directly on one ear cup for easy access, and a professional standard noise-canceling microphone delivers Sennheiser-grade calls and chats, even at raucous LAN events.

PC 330 G4ME: A high-performance headset designed for your G4ME
The noise of mass gaming sessions is always a challenge, but Sennheiser Communications has designed a great solution: a clever ear-cup design that strikes the balance between immersion and communication. The PC 330 features closed acoustics, so gamers can completely shut out their surroundings for full-on action. To talk to neighbors directly, just flip up the right ear cup like DJs do in a club. Other convenient features include automatic microphone mute, which is triggered when the boom is raised, and a volume control built right into the right ear cup.

Of course, the PC 330 features trademark Sennheiser stereo sound quality and a high-end noise-canceling microphone that makes it easy to chat uninterrupted online.

Pricing and availability (click links below to view hi-res images)

The PC 360 ($299.95), PC 163D ($209.95), PC 333D ($239.95) and PC 330 ($169.95) are available now. Visit www.sennheiserusa.com for stores.

About Sennheiser Communications
Sennheiser Communications is the result of a joint venture between the electro acoustics specialist Sennheiser Electronic GmbH & Co. KG and the hearing healthcare specialist William Demant Holding Group. Decades of experience in pro music and hearing healthcare has helped the seven-year-old company produce award-winning, innovative headsets.

About Sennheiser
Sennheiser is a world-leading manufacturer of microphones, headphones and wireless transmission systems. Established in 1945 in Wedemark, Germany, Sennheiser has grown into a global brand represented in over sixty countries through wholly owned subsidiaries and long-term distribution partners. Sennheiser is proud to be affiliated with Georg Neumann, purveyor of world-leading studio microphones, and joint venture Sennheiser Communications, which brings its award winning technology to headsets for gaming, mobile phones and PCs. Sennheiser’s pioneering advancements in technology has rewarded the brand with numerous awards and accolades including an Emmy, a Grammy and the Scientific and Engineering Award of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. For more information, please visit www.sennheiserusa.com.

First up is the high-end DR-GA500. It’s distinguishing feature is its 7.1ch 3D surround sound effects. Going hand-in-hand with that, it also has a separate signal-processing unit, which decodes and delivers Dolby Pro Logic IIx audio. So, the sounds you’re experiencing in your next gaming session while using these should sound as pristine as possible. And, if you’re playing your favorite First Person Shooter (FPS, like Halo 3 or Call of Duty), that means you’ll get the full experience, with being able to hear someone walking up behind you.

As for the DR-GA200, it has all of the same features as the aforementioned model, but it lacks that 7.1ch 3D surround sound feature, along with that separate unit. So, you still get 40mm drive units in each ear, pumping out the sound you love so much. You also get built-in boom microphones, so not only can you hear everyone, but you’ll also be able to talk all you want, too. While no release date was given, it’s believed they’ll hit store shelves by mid-September. Price wise, we’re probably looking at somewhere around $150 for the DR-GA500, and something less for the DR-GA200.

Oh, one more thing. Sony’s doing a special deal, beginning on October 15th. If you drop down your hard earned cash for one of these gaming headphones, you actually get a free copy of EA’s reboot of the Medal of Honor franchise. So, it might be better to just wait a little bit, if you are interested in these guys.

[via Pocket-Lint]

The PC-333D makes use of the higher model number, by featuring just a little bit more — even if it is just a means to an end, versus the lower model numbered 163D. Both headsets feature 7.1 surround sound, which means you’ll be perfectly capable of hearing from which direction someone is running up on you, and can react accordingly. Additionally, both headsets feature an adjustable mic boom, along with the now standard noise cancellation.

The differences come next. For the PC-333D, your volume control is actually integrated into the left ear cup. Additionally, you can mute the microphone by raising it, instead of having to worry about an extra button or slider. As for the PC-163D headset, the volume control and mute option are on the actual headphone cord. The 163D is also open style headset, meaning you won’t have your ears completely covered by them. While the 333D are over-the-ears, so you should be plenty immersed in whatever it is you’re playing. Both headsets aren’t available right now, but are scheduled to release later this month, or by early September. No word on pricing quite yet.

[via GearLog]

Meanwhile the Samsung BD-C7900 and BD-C6800 Blu-ray players each have 1GB of internal storage, integrated WiFi, Samsung AllShare support and Samsung Apps support.  They’ll be $399.99 and $279.99 respectively.  The BD-C5900 has 3D, AllShare, WiFi and Apps, with an entry level price of $229.99.  Finally, their portable counterpart, the Samsung BD-C8000, is a 10.3-inch portable Blu-ray player with WiFi, AllShare and Samsung Apps, and will be priced at $499.99.

In surround sound, meanwhile, the Samsung HT-C9550W, HT-C6900W and HT-C6600 all support 3D; the C9550W has 7.1 surround while the other two make do with 5.1.  Both the C9550W and C6900W have wireless rear speakers and WiFi; all three support AllShare and Samsung Apps.  They’ll be $1,799.99, $699.99 and $599.99 respectively.

Press Release:

SAMSUNG UNVEILS WORLD’S FIRST PORTABLE BLU-RAY PLAYER WITH 3D CAPABILITY; FURTHER EXPANDS 3D PRODUCT LINE-UP

New Blu-Ray Players and Home Theater Systems Offer Immersive 3D Experience At Home

RIDGEFIELD PARK, NJ, August 11, 2010 – Samsung Electronics America, Inc., a market leader and award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, today announced the U.S. availability of the world’s first portable Blu-ray player with 3D capability. The Samsung BD-C8000 delivers true 1080p HD video, enables 3D playback when connected to a 3D-capable TV and used with 3D glasses, and features a brilliant 10.3-inch screen. It includes built-in Wi-Fi for easy access to advanced connectivity features, including an expanding library of content and applications via Samsung Apps and HDMI 1.4a support. With three hours of battery life, the Samsung BD-C8000 is the perfect travel companion for anyone who wants an outstanding entertainment experience while on the go.

Samsung also introduced three additional standalone Blu-ray players and three new Blu-ray Home Theater Systems that deliver crystal-clear picture and sound quality with new features that will excite both the first-time owner and the audiophile.

“Blu-ray has raised the bar for video and audio quality that consumers expect to see at home. We led the way in 3D TVs and are excited to do the same for 3D Blu-ray players and Home Theater Systems. With the industry’s broadest line-up of 3D capable home entertainment products, there is a product to suit every home and wallet,” said John Revie, senior vice president of Home Entertainment at Samsung Electronics America Inc.

Expanded Range of 3D-Capable Blu-ray Players Helps Future-Proof Entertainment Options

Samsung’s latest Blu-ray players bring the wonder of 3D entertainment into the home. The Samsung BD-C7900 Blu-ray player is designed for the HD guru. With two HDMI outputs, the BD-C7900 makes it easy to connect multiple HD sources to experience a full 1080p picture and digital surround sound. The two HDMI outputs also allow for support of legacy receivers so there is no need to upgrade to a new HDMI 1.4 receiver; the user can simply connect their receiver to the HDMI 1.3 output for rich, lifelike surround sound audio. This sleek and stylish device offers built-in WiFi for seamless connectivity to Samsung Apps. It also features Samsung’s proprietary AllShare™, which allows people to wirelessly sync digital devices so that they can enjoy music, movies and photos directly from their DLNA certified PC, camera and mobile devices to their Samsung TV screen.

For those looking for a versatile home entertainment experience, Samsung’s BD-C6800 Blu-ray player includes built-in WiFi enabling it to wirelessly receive web-based content via Samsung Apps and playback media files from DLNA certified devices via Samsung’s AllShare™. The entry-level BD-C5900 is designed for those looking for a high-performing yet affordable 3D Blu-ray player.

All Samsung Blu-ray players support a wide range of media formats and access to an expanding library of applications through Samsung Apps, the first HDTV-based applications store. These new 3D Blu-ray players deliver a premium experience with both 2D and 3D content and allow consumers to future-proof their living rooms for when they are ready to purchase a 3D HDTV.

Series/Model Estimated Selling Price Estimated Availability
BD-C8000 $499.99 July 2010
BD-C7900 $399.99 July 2010
BD-C6800 $279.99 July 2010
BD-C5900 $229.99 July 2010

Powerful New Blu-ray Home Theater Systems Deliver Immersive 3D Experience
The Samsung HT-C9950W is the ultimate combination of beauty, design and performance. It features a modern metallic finish and is the perfect complement to Samsung’s award-winning 9000 series LED TV. It delivers jaw-dropping home theater picture quality, and engaging, life-like and immersive entertainment experience that will please anyone looking for the best in home cinema. The HT-C9950W is as feature-rich as it is stylish – with slot-in disc loading, organic touch control buttons and a premium volume wheel. The 7.1 channel 3D surround sound system consists of four floor-standing speakers, two satellite speakers, one center channel unit, an anti-vibration subwoofer, iPod/iPhone dock, two HDMI inputs, and it comes with a dongle for wireless Internet connectivity so that you can easily access new content everyday via Samsung Apps, or use Samsung’s AllShare™ to watch content from your DLNA certified devices on the TV.

With the introduction of the HT-C6900W and HT-C6600, Samsung brings together the unsurpassed picture quality of 3D Blu-ray players with vibrant surround-sound audio, all in the perfect home theater package for small spaces.

The Samsung HT-C6600 offers an impressive slate of features – a Blu-ray player with built-in 3D, support for HDMI 1.4, access to Samsung Apps and WiFi dongle for wireless connectivity. In addition, the HT-C6600’s patented, high-performance Crystal Amp Pro technology dramatically enhances sound quality through its multi-variable feedback technology to deliver a complete immersive audio experience. The Samsung HT-C6900W offers all the features of the HT-C6600, plus wireless rear speakers, built-in WiFi, and a two-way center channel speaker for enhanced sound quality.

Press Release:

SAMSUNG ANNOUNCES “FREE THE TV CHALLENGE” APPS CONTEST;
DOUBLES APPS LIBRARY CONTENT

Reinforces market leadership in smart TV segment with new content and experiences

RIDGEFIELD PARK, NJ, August 11, 2010 – Samsung Electronics America, Inc., a market leader and award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, today kicks off its Free the TV Challenge to find the most innovative applications for IPTVs, Blu-ray players and Blu-ray Home Theater Systems. With a total prize value of half a million dollars, the Challenge is open to all developers in the US starting today.

Samsung also announced that the number of applications available through Samsung Apps, the world’s first HDTV-based application store, has more than doubled since its launch five months ago. Beginning today, people can choose from a wide range of unique and premium apps across five categories – video, gaming, social media, sports and kids – including apps from ESPN and Hulu which are currently exclusive to Samsung. They can also download and enjoy the world’s first 3D video on-demand app to view trailers of 3D movies.

“We are thrilled that content owners continue to embrace Samsung Apps and that we have doubled the number of applications available to owners of Samsung 2010 connected TVs and Blu-ray devices,” said Eric Anderson, vice president of content and product solutions, Samsung Electronics America, Inc. “The Free the TV Challenge will continue that momentum by opening up these TVs to even more developers across the US who want to distribute their content on the biggest screen in the home. People want a connected entertainment experience with their devices and we encourage developers to free the TV by bringing new concepts, as well as existing apps from many platforms, to the TV.”

Samsung Free the TV Challenge Opens Today
With the Free the TV Challenge, Samsung is unlocking a new era in smart TV by helping free the TV for developers, who can now tap into the expanding market for TV applications. Developers can go to www.FreeTheTVChallenge.com to register for the contest, starting today. To be eligible, developers must live in the United States, submit the final app and provide a video that showcases how the app works to Samsung by November 11, 2010. The contest will be administered by New York-based startup ChallengePost, and entries will be judged based on the quality of the idea, functional implementation, and visual appeal. Total prize value is US$500,000. Roelof Botha from Sequoia, Mike Maples from Floodgate, Bob Borchers from Opus Capital and Jeremy Levine from Bessemer will serve as judges. Consumers will also have an opportunity to cast their vote online for the “People’s Choice Award.” Samsung will announce the overall winner at the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, NV.

In addition, select applications submitted to the Free the TV Challenge will be made available to the large and growing community of Samsung Apps users. Samsung Apps is accessible on all 2010 Samsung Blu-ray players, Blu-ray Home Theater Systems and the majority of HDTVs with screen sizes 40” or larger.

Built with the developer in mind, Samsung Apps supports common web standards, like Javascript, XML and support for Adobe Flash Lite 3.1, and uses a single SDK for apps that runs across HDTVs, Blu-ray players and Blu-ray Home Theater systems. This eliminates many of the barriers to development by allowing applications to be written once and deployed across several platforms, ultimately enabling more versatile monetization for developers and a consistent, intuitive experience for consumers.

To further support developers, Samsung is launching a series of Free the TV Developer Days, where developers will get hands-on demonstrations of the Samsung Apps platform and a tutorial on the Samsung SDK, as well as participate in a Q&A session with Samsung engineers. The first session will be held on August 31, 2010 at the Fairmont Hotel in San Jose, CA, and Pandora Founder Tim Westergren will speak at the event.

More information on Samsung’s Developer Days and registration for the Free the TV Challenge is available at www.FreeTheTVChallenge.com.

New Apps Demonstrate Diversity of Content and Services
Samsung continues to see explosive growth in smart TV and has more than doubled the number of available applications in its library within five months. In addition to various free apps, Samsung today expanded its library of apps with the addition of ESPN’s Next Level application, as well as a variety of other premium apps that offer a variety of 3D, sports, casual gaming, weather and family-oriented content at the touch of a button.

The new ESPN Next Level app, available as a free download exclusively through Samsung Apps, is expected to be a hit with sports fans. With four main sections, the app will allow fans to access in-depth looks at sports events and players in the news; predictive picks of the day’s games across all major sports; research nuggets from the ESPN Research team; and insights from Peter Keating, Senior Writer at ESPN The Magazine, who gives his unique perspective on a variety of statistical subjects. Samsung and ESPN plan to introduce a ScoreCenter app in the Fall of 2010, based on the popular app currently available on mobile devices.

Samsung will soon launch the world’s first 3D Video On-Demand app which offers viewers sneak previews of upcoming 3D movies. All apps are available from today and can be downloaded directly on the TV via their Internet-connected HDTV, Blu-ray player or Blu-ray Home Theater System*.

Samsung, the market leader in smart TV, is committed to expanding the types of experiences available to consumers. In 2008, the company was the first to deliver text-based RSS feeds, bringing news, weather and stock information directly to the TV with its InfoLink feature. In 2009, Samsung added Yahoo! widgets to the smart TV experience, as well as streaming video services with providers like Blockbuster and Amazon video-on-demand. With the launch of Samsung Apps this year, Samsung is broadening the smart TV experience, bringing services such as text-based information, casual games, sports, communications, social and location services, and HD and 3D video to consumers. The addition of these new premium apps underscores momentum around the platform as leading content providers continue to recognize the platform’s flexibility in delivering the growing types of content that meet consumers’ demand. Today, more than 60 industry-leading partners have made personalized, easy to use smart TV experiences available to consumers through Samsung Apps, including exclusive HDTV-based apps content from ESPN and Hulu Plus, among other leading brands like Blockbuster, Facebook, Google, Netflix, Pandora, Twitter, USA TODAY and Vudu.

It’ll also take 3D images, which can be saved to an SD card and shown on a Blu-ray player hooked up to a 3D-capable TV, while 3D footage can be played with a direct HDMI connection from the camcorder itself.  Sound is recorded in 5.1 surround, thanks to five separate microphones, and there’s a 3-inch touchscreen LCD for controlling the whole show.

Otherwise it’s a pretty straightforward camcorder, with the usual high-end processing, a large-diameter (46mm) F1.5*3 Leica Dicomar lens, manual controls, face recognition and both optical and digital image stabilization.  The Panasonic HDC-SDT750 will arrive in October 2010, priced at $1,399.95.

Press Release:

PANASONIC UNVEILS THE WORLD’S FIRST 3D CONSUMER CAMCORDER, COMPLETE WITH A 3D CONVERSION LENS*1

New Panasonic HDC-SDT750 Shoots 3D Video Ready to Play Back on 3D-Capable Televisions, Perfect for Creating a 3D Entertainment Ecosystem at Home

SECAUCUS, NJ (July 27, 2010) – Panasonic ,today announced the launch of the Panasonic HDC-SDT750, the world’s first consumer 3D camcorder, which includes a 3D conversion lens*1 that enables the camcorder to shoot powerful and true-to-life 3D video content. The Panasonic SDT750 is a user-friendly consumer 3D camcorder that makes experiencing 3D at home easy and affordable*2. In addition to shooting 3D, the SDT750 can record full 1080p High Definition (HD) in AVCHD, when the 3D conversion lens is unattached, and includes powerful features such as a 3MOS system, a Leica Dicomar lens and a 12x optical zoom.

“As a result of research conducted through Panasonic Hollywood Laboratory, Panasonic developed a professional 3D system camera and successfully brought high-quality Full HD 3D images to the home for viewing on Panasonic VIERA Full HD 3D televisions. But now, Panasonic has taken it one step further and developed the world’s first consumer 3D camcorder, the HDC-SDT750 – creating a 3D ecosystem available for consumers in the home,” said Chris Rice, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “Incorporating Panasonic’s professional broadcast technology and bringing it to an easy-to-use consumer model, the SDT750 makes high-quality 3D video content a reality in the home.”

To shoot 3D video with the Panasonic HDC-SDT750 camcorder, the user needs to attach the 3D conversion lens that comes included, to record dynamic images. The specially-designed 3D conversion lens records right-eye and left-eye images simultaneously through its two lenses, thus resulting in video that can be viewed in 3D. The right and left images (each with 960 x 1080 pixels) that enter through the lenses are recorded using the side-by-side method.

The Panasonic SDT750 features a Time Lapse Recording feature, which plays a scene such as a sunset or a blooming flower at an accelerated speed, similar to a fast-forward. By setting the recording interval to 1 second, 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute or 2 minutes, the user can view an otherwise long recording in a reduced time period. For example, when a scene is recorded at the 1-second interval setting, a 10-minute sunset scene can be played back in approximately 10 seconds, making the slow change in the subject appear as if it were taking place in a very short time. This interval recording feature is also available when the 3D conversion lens is attached to the SDT750.

Panasonic offers a 5.1-channel audio recording sound system that uses five microphones, so when voices are recorded from the front, right, left and back are played on a 5.1-channel home cinema system, users are surrounded by clear, detailed sound that makes them feel as if they are right in the middle of the action. The Focus Microphone function, which has been made possible by five highly-directional microphones, picks up the sounds from sources in the area in front of the camcorder, regardless of whether the lens is focusing on a near or distant object. It also allows footage recorded in 3D to be enjoyed with lifelike and dynamic sounds.
The high-sensitivity 3MOS System has 7.59 million effective motion image pixels (2.53 megapixels x 3), so this advanced image sensor separates the light received through the lens into the three primary colors – red, green and blue – and processes each color independently. As a result, the Panasonic SDT750 produces beautiful images with rich color quality, detail and gradation. Adding to the quality, the SDT750 also features a large-diameter (46mm) F1.5*3 Leica Dicomar lens and Crystal Engine PRO, a high-speed processing unit – both components which contribute to the effectiveness of the camcorder’s light gathering, increased sensitivity, and reduced noise when shooting, even in dim lighting.

Users can play back 3D videos recorded on the Panasonic HDC-SDT750 on 3D-capable televisions, such as Panasonic VIERA® Full HD 3D televisions, including the TC-P50VT25, TC-P54VT25, TC-P58VT25, TC-P65VT25 and the TC-P50VT20 models. Playback using a VIERA TV is done by connecting the 3D camcorder to the television using an HDMI cable. In addition, it is also possible to play 3D images recorded on SD Memory Cards by using an AVCHD compatible player,*4 such as a Panasonic 3D Blu-ray Disc player – the DMP-BDT350 or DMP-BDT300 models are currently available. When watching 3D content recorded by the SDT750 on any of the Panasonic Full HD 3D VIERA televisions, users can view the true-to-life content and the VIERA television will automatically engage the side-by-side method for smooth viewing of 3D content – no change of settings necessary.

The SDT750 comes with HD Writer AE 2.6T PC editing software, which allows users to easily edit recorded 3D images, and save them onto PCs or Blu-ray/DVD discs. HD Writer AE 2.6T features a “Smart Wizard” that starts as soon as the SDT750 is connected to the USB port of the computer, which gives simple on-screen guidance. HD Writer AE 2.6T also enables easy uploading and sharing online without the need for any cumbersome processes, so that even an inexperienced user can post video clips on the web. When uploading 3D images from a PC onto the web, they must first be converted into 2D images.

Even without the 3D conversion lens attached, the Panasonic SDT750 is an innovative and high-performance Full HD camcorder that is equipped with a wide range of sophisticated functions, including the 3MOS System, which features improved noise reduction (NR) technologies, and a wide-variety of manual adjustments controlled by a manual ring for easy, creative shooting. The manual ring provides convenient, fingertip control of the focus, zoom, exposure (iris), shutter speed and white balance settings. Using the ring is extremely intuitive, comfortable, and user-friendly. Only the white balance setting is available when the 3D conversion lens is attached. The SDT750 can shoot 1,080/60p recording (Full-HD 1,920 x 1,080, 60 progressive recording) and produces rich expressive images, with no detail loss and flickering.

Panasonic’s Intelligent Auto (iA) function makes the SDT750 extremely easy to use. When the 3D lens is not attached and iA is engaged, the SDT750 automatically selects the most suitable shooting mode with the press of a button. While shooting HD video, the Panasonic SDT750’s iA function offers the following six functions: Face Recognition, the new HYBRID O.I.S., AF/AE Tracking, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Detection and Intelligent Contrast Control. HYBRID O.I.S., a new feature, provides extremely accurate hand-shake correction with its four-axis blur detection, resulting in steady images while zooming or shooting on the move.

Other features of the Panasonic HDC-SDT750 include:

Auto Power LCD automatically adjusts the brightness of the screen according to the shooting environment for comfortable use in a variety of different lighting situations.
Large 3.0” touch-screen LCD allows icons to be easily operated by touching them with a fingertip. On the LCD, recorded 3D images are displayed only as the 2D images that were recorded with the left lens.
Eco Mode automatically turns off the power when the camcorder is not operated for five minutes, reducing wasteful energy use and saving battery power.
Pre-Rec allows for the camcorder to continuously record three seconds of content into internal memory. Then, when the record button is pressed, the three seconds immediately prior will have been recorded.
The Panasonic HDC-SDT750 will be available in October 2010 with a suggested retail price of $1,399.95. For more information on Panasonic camcorders, please visit: www.panasonic.com/dvc.

*1 As a consumer camcorder with 3D conversion lens for the AVCHD standard (as of July 27, 2010).
*2 A TV that is capable of side-by-side method 3D playback, 3D Eyewear, and HDMI cable connection are required to play the recorded 3D images.
*3 F3.2 when the 3D conversion lens is attached.
*4 If the player/recorder is incompatible with 3D, the 3D mode must be set on the TV manually
*Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

In order to get their THX certification, Onkyo used a special dual-woofer array for the front loudspeakers and THX Surround EX.  There’s also lossless Dolby and DTS high definition audio processing, Dolby ProLogic IIz height channel processing and various other audio-tweaking systems of Onkyo’s own design.

The Onkyo HT-S9300THX Home Theater in a Box system will be available at the end of this month, priced at $1,099.  An iPod/iPhone dock is an optional accessory, as is an HD radio tuner module, and the whole thing is set up via Onkyo’s new OSD.

Press Release:

Onkyo Debuts the World’s First 3D-Ready & THX Certified Integrated Home Theater System

Onkyo, a brand renowned worldwide for quality home entertainment technology, has introduced the world’s first THX® I/S Plus™ Certified (Integrated System) and 3D-Ready packaged home theater system. This type of system, popularly known as a “home theater in a box” or HTiB, consists of seven theater loudspeakers, a subwoofer for deep-bass sound effects, and an audio-video receiver that is fully compatible with state-of-the-art HD video players and video displays, including all the latest 3D technologies. It is compatible with the mandatory formats for 3D video broadcast content of “Side-By-Side (Half)” and “Top-and-Bottom” formats.

The Onkyo HT-S9300THX receiver has four 3D-Ready HDMI 1.4a inputs for connection to modern audio/video source components, and it can upscale video from any input source to the maximum 1080p HDMI output resolution. The system receiver includes lossless Dolby & DTS high definition audio processing, Dolby ProLogic IIz height channel processing, and numerous other high performance sound processing features from THX, Audyssey, and Onkyo.

“With 3D and THX, this package offers remarkable value,” said Paul Wasek, Onkyo’s marketing manager. “As one of the most enthusiastic suppliers of THX Certified components, Onkyo has long recognized the importance ensuring that our customers experience movie sound effects exactly as the producer and sound engineer intended.”

“Our collaboration with Onkyo has produced an affordable, all-in-one home theater system with a sonic punch that puts most HTiBs to shame,” said Graham McKenna, Director of PR at THX. “Designed for movie fans and gamers who crave multichannel sound, the HT-S9300THX delivers every bass note, sound effect and dialogue like it was captured in the studio.”

The Onkyo HT-S9300THX was awarded THX I/S Plus certification based on THX’s independent testing of the combined audio performance of this system’s receiver, speakers, and a powerful 12-inch subwoofer. The specially designed front loudspeakers use a THX-developed dual-woofer array that optimizes the sound field for a sonic presentation that is remarkably close to that found in the best THX movie theaters. The system includes THX Surround EX™; THX listening modes for Music, Movies and Games; and THX Loudness Plus™, a sophisticated volume-control technology which maintains surround impact at low listening levels.

The HT-S9300THX also provides for easy surround sound speaker set up with Audyssey 2EQ room acoustics correction technology, and provides improved sound enjoyment with Audyssey Dynamic EQ and Audyssey Dynamic Volume processing. It includes Onkyo’s proprietary Music Optimizer, which improves the sound of compressed music files for playback with loudspeakers, and four DSP modes for various gaming scenarios.

All video inputs can be upscaled to 1080p video, regardless of native resolution, via Faroudja DCDi Cinema™ processor, which also removes the jaggies during the video signal deinterlacing process, resulting in smooth progressive-scan video images.

The receiver employs Onkyo’s new overlaid graphical OSD (on screen display) for seamless adjustment of settings while still viewing the program in the background. A proprietary rear-panel Universal Port can be used to connect an optional Onkyo UP-A1 dock for iPod/iPhone and UP-HT1 HD Radio tuner module. The receiver also includes Onkyo’s HDMI Thru feature, which provides automatic source-to-TV switching when the receiver is in the standby mode. This allows children to enjoy programs using a TV’s built-in speakers without the need to use the receiver’s controls.

The HT-S9300THX will be available at the end of July with a suggested retail price of $1,099.

When we first saw that sound bar the closest we had to a launch date was a vague “this fall” promise from Sony for the US. Fans of the sound bar in Japan have a firm launch date to look forward to. The device is set to launch in Japan on September 30 for 19,800 yen.

In case you forget, the device has Sony virtual surround sound tech called S-force PRO Front Surround. It supports Dolby Digital, DTS, AAC, and Linear PCM formats. The front speaker units are 50 x 90mm and the sub is a 65mm diameter unit. The price in the US is pegged at $199.

Two high-def outputs can be supported simultaneously, and Onkyo have used separate transformers for audio and video processing, with the TX-NR5008 also adding a toroidal transformer and 22,000 uF capacitors.  It also has front and rear USB 2.0 ports, whereas the TX-NR3008 makes do with one up front; they work with PMPs like Apple’s iPod.

As for multi-room use, owners can listen to a 5.1-channel source in the primary room together with fully powered stereo audio of two different sources in Zone 2 and Zone 3. There’s also the option of Zone 2/3 pre outs and Zone 2 video output.  Onkyo expect the TX-NR3008 and TX-NR5008 to drop in August, priced at $2,099 and $2,699 respectively.

Press Release:

Onkyo Announces Top-of-the-Line Network Receivers with Flagship Features and Performance

Upper Saddle River, NJ (6/29/10) — Onkyo, a world-renowned innovator in home entertainment, has announced the release of two new high-end network A/V receivers, the TX-NR5008 and TX-NR3008, that offer a wide range of the most up-to-date and user-friendly home theater features, and have achieved THX® Ultra2 Plus™ certification. Both receivers support network audio streaming, various multi-room set-ups, iPhone/iPod playback over USB, and fully immersive, 3D-compatible home theater.

Each of these models features eight HDMI® 1.4a inputs, with compatibility specified for an Audio Return Channel and 3D video. Both mandatory video formats for 3D broadcasting—“Side-By-Side (Half)” and “Top-and-Bottom”—are supported. With 3D content on the rise, users will be able to take advantage of the unique visual dimensions made possible by this dynamic new format.

Dual HDMI outputs are also provided on these models, allowing users to connect two high-definition displays simultaneously. In conjunction with HDMI, HQV-Reon VX enables 1080p upscaling of all video inputs, regardless of source resolution. Both also feature advanced ISF video calibration, which allows users to make fine-grained, independent adjustments for each video source.

Audio networking and internet radio are common to both models. A rear-side Ethernet port enables easy firmware upgrades and links the receiver/controller directly to the internet or to a home PC. Users can access streaming internet radio through Pandora, Rhapsody, Napster, Slacker, Mediafly, Sirius Internet Radio, and vTuner, or play back a wide variety of PC-based audio files, including FLAC, MP3, WAV, Ogg Vorbis, WMA, WMA Lossless, AAC, and LPCM. The receivers are also Windows® 7 compatible and DLNA 1.5 certified to ensure optimal compatibility with other network-enabled equipment in the home.

With 9.2 audio channels, users have a great deal of flexibility in how they set up their home theater. The 9-channel configuration allows users to take advantage of the expanded surround dimensions of Audyssey DSX™ or Dolby® Pro Logic® IIz. The former adds extra height or width channels for greater spatial ambience, while the latter provides the option of extra height channels.

Naturally, support is also provided for Dolby® TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio™, the popular lossless codecs found on Blu-ray Disc. Furthermore, compatibility with DSD Direct means that users will be able to enjoy their SA-CD collections in all their pristine clarity. High-quality Burr-Brown DACs allow these Onkyo models to handle the heavy demands of multi-channel audio processing.

In a modern home theater, matching audio output to the acoustic characteristics of the room is all-important. Both receivers include a full suite of Audyssey room-correction and equalization technologies. These work to optimize audio performance, regardless of room shape and volume level. Audyssey MultEQ® XT, for example, uses information from up to 8 positions throughout the room to calibrate speakers for optimal audio balance.

Flexibility is the byword when it comes to multi-room set-ups. The TX-NR5008 and TX-NR3008 let users play a 5.1-channel source in the main room, along with fully powered stereo audio of two different sources in Zone 2 and Zone 3. On top of that, users also have the option of Zone 2/3 pre outs and Zone 2 video output.

The TX-NR3008 features a front-side USB port, while the TX-NR5008 has USB ports front and rear. As well as handling audio content from flash memory devices, the USB ports let users play music—and display album art—from a connected iPhone/iPod.

Build quality is highlighted by gold-plated audio inputs and PLL jitter-cleaning circuit technology on all models. These A/V receivers feature separate transformers for audio and video processing, with the TX-NR5008 also adding a massive toroidal transformer and 22,000 uF capacitors, a feature more typical of separate component amplifiers.

Other convenient features shared by both models include an analog RGB input for video content from a connected PC; a backlit and customizable remote controller; HDMI Thru allows children to still watch programs when the receiver is not turned on; and Onkyo’s new overlaid graphical OSD for seamless adjustment of settings during a viewing session.

These new releases keep Onkyo at the forefront of high-end integrated home entertainment, and demonstrate the company’s ongoing commitment to providing maximum performance at every level of the home theater market.

The Onkyo TX-NR3008 and TX-NR5008 will be available in August with suggested retail prices of $2,099 and $2,699 respectively.

Since 1946 Onkyo has been passionately committed to developing audio products that deliver uncommon performance, quality and value. Bundling proprietary technologies and innovations with other sound-enhancing exclusives, Onkyo continues to created award winning products that are lauded by many of the industry leading audio publications. The company’s philosophy is to deliver products that are superbly designed and built to a consistently outstanding standard of excellence. Today, Onkyo is at the forefront of the home theater and digital revolutions. For more information about this and other fine Onkyo products, visit www.onkyousa.com or call 800-229-1687.

Thanks to Audio Return Channel (ARC) a single HDMI cable will be enough for the SC-ZT2′s input, and it also supports Full HD 3D image and video pass-through.  It’s available now, priced at $999.95.

As for the Panasonic SC-HTB10 and SC-HTB500, they have a single HDMI 1.4a input and another output, and support 3D passthrough.  The smaller SC-HTB10 packs an integrated subwoofer, while the SC-HTB500 is designed for larger screen TV displays and comes with a separate wireless Kelton subwoofer.  The SC-HTB10 will go on sale this month, priced at $199.95, while the SC-HTB500 will follow on in August for $349.95.

Press Release:

PANASONIC’S WIRELESS AUDIO SPEAKER SYSTEM
MADE FOR FULL HD 3D
DELIVERS FULL SOUND WITHOUT CABLES

SECAUCUS, NJ (June 2, 2010) – Panasonic today announced that its first fully wireless home theater audio system made for Full HD 3D is now reaching store shelves. Panasonic’s elegant new SC-ZT2 is a wireless, design-matching solution for the Full HD 3D home theater system. It produces rich surround sound with the life-like ambience of a 7.1-channel system, while using only two speakers. When paired with the new Panasonic DMP-BDT350 Blu-ray 3D™ player, the SC-ZT2 provides the high definition surround sound audio portion of Full HD 3D, allowing home theater enthusiasts, including those with 3D theater systems, to do away with speaker cables running across the room.

The SC-ZT2 is compatible with Audio Return Channel (ARC), which allows receiving audio signal from the TV through a single HDMI cable. This new feature simplifies the set-up by eliminating the need for a separate optical audio connection. It also supports Full HD 3D images and video.

Panasonic’s advanced proprietary virtual technology lets users enjoy Dolby® TrueHD and DTS™-HD 7.1-channel surround sound with only two speakers. Each speaker houses four one-inch tweeters. These tweeters are vertically aligned and emit sounds parallel to the floor, enabling one to listen from anywhere in the room, regardless of lying down or sitting on a sofa. With its ultra-slim design, the SC-ZT2 system has a minimum of unwanted sound reflections, thus delivering crisp, clear sounds directly to listeners.

The speakers also boast an integrated long-stroke woofer, with a diameter of approximately five inches, which generates sounds from the low-frequency range to deep bass that is typically produced by subwoofers. It uses a Down-Fire structure which uses the floor as an acoustical reflector to produce dynamic bass sounds that are extremely robust for the size of the speakers. With woofers in both speaker stands, listeners experience rich bass sounds from the front, back, left and right sides of the system.

Stylish and space-saving, the Panasonic SC-ZT2 wireless audio system includes two ultra slim pole speakers and a wireless receiver. It is an ideal complement to a flat-panel TV and Blu-ray player. The SC-ZT2 is now available with a suggested retail price of $999.95.

About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company

Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company (PCEC), a market and technology leader in High Definition television, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic’s U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth’s natural resources and protect our environment through the company’s Eco Ideas programs. Information about Panasonic products is available at www.panasonic.com. Additional company information for journalists is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

Press Release:

PANASONIC DEBUTS ITS FIRST SURROUND BAR AUDIO SYSTEMS
WITH 3D PASS THROUGH

SECAUCUS, NJ (June 2, 2010) – Panasonic today announced that its first surround bar home theater speaker systems, models SC-HTB10 and SC-HTB500 will reach store shelves this summer. Both models fit neatly in front of the TV and offer an easy to install, stylish alternative to a home theater sound system. They are equipped with a single HDMI 1.4 input, which will pass through 3D video from a connected Blu-ray 3D™ player and a single HDMI 1.4 output with audio return channel. The SC-HTB10 features an integrated subwoofer and is ideal for televisions up to 42-inches, while the SC-HTB500 is designed for larger screen TV displays and comes with a separate wireless subwoofer.

Both surround bar systems deliver dialogue that is crisp and clear. This is made possible by the advanced bamboo cone speaker design and Clear-Mode Dialogue, which makes the sound seem like it is coming from the center of the TV display. With more precise linking of the picture and the sound, the result is clean pure sound for dialogue voices on video and vocals on music.

The new systems boast a rich sound experience that belies their sleek and compact silhouettes. The SC-HTB10 measures only 31-1/2 inches wide, and the SC-HTB500 has a width of 41-1/2 inches. Both models feature 2.1-channel audio. The SC-HTB10 features an integrated subwoofer with both forward and rear firing woofers. The SC-HTB500 boasts a wireless powered Kelton Subwoofer for more robust and dynamic bass sound.

Connection and installation could not be easier, thanks to the systems’ compatibility with ARC (Audio Return Channel), which allows receiving audio signals from the TV. Simply place it in front of the television or wall mount for a custom installation (via supplied wall mounts) and connect it with just one HDMI cable.

Available this month, the SC-HTB10 carries a suggested retail price of $199.95. The SC-HTB500 will be available in August 2010, with a suggested retail price of $349.95.

About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company
Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company (PCEC), a market and technology leader in High Definition television, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic’s U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth’s natural resources and protect our environment through the company’s Eco Ideas programs. Information about Panasonic products is available at www.panasonic.com. Additional company information for journalists is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

On the 7.2-channel TX-NR808 and TX-NR708 the extra channels replace the surround rear channels. Meanwhile, on the 9.2-channel TX-NR1008 they have dedicated extra ports.  There’s also multi-room audio, ranging from a single powered zone on the TX-NR708 all the way to simultaneous three-room audio (one of which can be 5.1 surround) on the TX-NR1008.

Pandora, Rhapsody, Audyssey MultEQ, iPod/iPhone-compliant USB ports and seven HDMI 1.4a ports round out the basic specs; for more details check the press release below.  The Onkyo TX-NR708 and TX-NR808 will be available at the beginning of July with MRSPs of $899 and $1,099 respectively; the TX-NR1008 will ship at the end of July with an MRSP of $1,399.

Press Release:

Onkyo Debuts Three THX Certified, 3D-Ready, Network Receivers with Audio Streaming and Multi-Room Functionality

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ, 6/1/10 — Onkyo, a world-renowned name in quality home entertainment, announced the release of three new mid- and upper mid-range network A/V receivers for 2010: the TX-NR1008, TX-NR808, and TX-NR708. Each of these models is THX® Select2 Plus™ certified and offers the latest processing and user-friendly features to support multi-room set-ups, network audio streaming, iPhone®/iPod®-compatible USB, and fully immersive 3D capable home theater with multidimensional surround sound to match.

All of these models have seven of the latest HDMI® 1.4a connections, specifying compatibility with the new 3D video formats, which promise to bring an exciting new dimension to movies and games in the home. These new receivers are also compatible with the mandatory formats for 3D broadcast content of “Side-By-Side (Half)” and “Top-and-Bottom” 3D video formats.

HDMI is also the conduit for 1080p video upscaling of all video inputs, regardless of native resolution, via Faroudja DCDi Cinema™. On all three of the new Onkyo receiver models, DCDi Cinema works to remove jaggies during the video signal deinterlacing process, resulting in smooth progressive-scan video images.

Each of these network receivers includes a rear-panel Ethernet port that links it directly to the internet or to a home PC. Users can then enjoy superior fidelity from a wide range of audio file types, including MP3, WMA, WMA Lossless, FLAC, WAV, Ogg Vorbis, AAC, and LPCM. They can also access a range of different streaming Internet radio services, from Pandora®, Rhapsody, vTuner, and Sirius Internet Radio®, and newly expanded services from Napster, Mediafly™, and Slacker™ internet radio.

The Ethernet connection brings the added convenience of easy firmware upgrades, which enhance the unit’s functionality going forward. Each receiver is also Windows® 7 compatible and DLNA 1.5 certified to allow audio streaming from other network-enabled equipment throughout the home.

Audio processing on all three models includes the studio master-quality of the industry’s two leading lossless codecs, Dolby® TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio™. Complementing these are the expanded surround dimensions of Dolby® Pro Logic® IIz and Audyssey DSX™. The former provides the option of adding extra height channels for improved ambience, while the latter adds either height or width channels. With the 7.2-channel TX-NR808 and TX-NR708, these extra channels replace the surround rear channels. Meanwhile, with the 9.2-channel TX-NR1008, users have a host of different speaker configurations to choose from.

This flexibility extends to multi-room set-ups. Onkyo’s new A/V receivers open the door to distributed audio in up to three rooms in the home. With the TX-NR708, users can take advantage of a powered Zone 2 or a Zone 2 line out. Meanwhile, the TX-NR808 provides a powered Zone 2, along with pre-outs for Zones 2 and 3. Finally, the TX-NR1008 can deliver 5.1-channel surround sound in the main room, plus fully powered stereo audio of two different sources in Zone 2 and Zone 3.

Along with the two extra amplifier channels and one extra HDMI output, the TX-NR1008 offers further advantages over its two siblings. It is equipped with advanced ISF video calibration controls for independent optimization and fine-grained adjustments of every video source. And it sports an extra 192 kHz/24-bit Burr Brown DAC to handle the heavy demands of multi-channel audio processing.

Each of the three Onkyo models includes a full suite of Audyssey equalization and room-correction technologies to ensure optimal audio performance in any environment and at any volume level. Chief among these is Audyssey MultEQ®, which corrects for time and frequency-response problems caused by room acoustics, and which calibrates speakers for optimal audio balance throughout the listening space.

All three receivers have an iPhone®/iPod®-compatible front-side USB port that allows on-screen display of album art and navigation via the included remote. Other noteworthy features shared by this trio include an analog RGB input for video content from a connected PC; PLL jitter-cleaning circuit technology; and Onkyo’s new overlaid graphical OSD for seamless adjustment of settings during a viewing session.

The TX-NR1008 and TX-NR808 include Onkyo’s bi-directional and customizable preprogrammed remote control to simplify the process of programming all the components in the system.

With these latest releases, Onkyo looks to consolidate its position as a provider of the most up-to-date home entertainment features backed by rock-solid performance and intelligent design.

The Onkyo TX-NR708 and TX-NR808 will be available at the beginning of July with suggested retail prices of $899 and $1,099 respectively. The TX-NR1008 will ship to dealers at the end of July and will have a suggested retail price of $1,399.

Since 1946 Onkyo has been passionately committed to developing audio products that deliver uncommon performance, quality and value. Bundling proprietary technologies and innovations with other sound-enhancing exclusives, Onkyo continues to created award winning products that are lauded by many of the industry leading audio publications. The company’s philosophy is to deliver products that are superbly designed and built to a consistently outstanding standard of excellence. Today, Onkyo is at the forefront of the home theater and digital revolutions. For more information about this and other fine Onkyo products, visit www.onkyousa.com or call 800-229-1687.

Likely of most interest to home buyers are the three 7-channel models (AVR-791, AVR-891, AVR-991) and two 5-channel models (AVR-591, AVR-391) which all have Dolby Pro Logic IIz decoding and iPod connectivity.  The AVR-991 also squeezes in an ethernet port for internet radio, Pandora and Flickr access, together with a web browser.  Pricing/availability as follows:

• AVR-991 (SRP: $999, July)
• AVR-891 (SRP: $799, May)
• AVR-791 (SRP: $499, May)
• AVR-591 (SRP: $349, May)
• AVR-391 (SRP: $249, July)

Meanwhile the AVR-1911 (SRP: $599, June) and AVR-1611 (SRP: $399, June) have two-zone A/V distribution capabilities together with an HD Radio tunrer on the AVR-1911 together with a USB connector for hooking up an iPod and improved upscaling. The custom-installation focused AVR-4311CI (SRP: $1,999, Sept.), AVR-3311CI (SRP: $1,199, June) and AVR-2311CI (SRP: $899, June) are intended to be built into distributed home entertainment systems.

Press Release:

DENON® REAFFIRMS LEADERSHIP IN ADVANCED A/V RECEIVERS WITH TEN NEW HIGH-PERFORMANCE MODELS

– Upgraded Line Offers A/V Enhancements and More Advanced Technologies at Lower Price Points; Ideal Home Entertainment Solutions for Every Consumer Need and Budget–

Mahwah, NJ, April 26, 2010 – Denon Electronics, a premier manufacturer of high-quality home entertainment components celebrating 100 years of innovation and technology leadership in 2010, today announced its new line of advanced audio/video receivers with ten state-of-the-art offerings. The lineup features five new affordable, fully featured priced models in the company’s popular Retail Home Theater Series line, with expected SRP and availability in parenthesis, including the AVR-991 (SRP: $999, July), AVR-891 (SRP: $799, May), AVR-791 (SRP: $499, May), AVR-591 (SRP: $349, May) and the AVR-391 (SRP: $249, July). These join two new, more advanced 7-channel Models, the AVR-1911 (SRP: $599, June), and AVR-1611 (SRP: $399, June). Also announced are Denon’s three new “CI-class” receivers (see separate release) geared toward custom integrators, including the AVR-4311CI (SRP: $1,999, Sept.), AVR-3311CI (SRP: $1,199, June), and AVR-2311CI (SRP: $899, June). The new models will join Denon’s AVR-4810CI (SRP: $2,999) and flagship AVR-5308CI (SRP: $5,500) in the company’s renowned line of A/V receivers, as well as the company’s advanced CI separates including the AVP-A1HDCI (SRP: $7,500) 12 Channel A/V Preamplifier and POA-A1HDCI (SRP: $7,500) Fully Balanced Power Amplifier.

Major Enhancements Throughout the Line
Among the significant enhancements made to all new Denon receivers is the inclusion of HDMI v1.4a Repeater Inputs with 3D (all mandated formats), Audio Return Channel and CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) support. All models, except the AVR-391, feature analog-to-HDMI conversion and HD Audio decoding from Dolby and dts, and many feature advanced multi-zone networking capabilities. Simple one-cable HDMI connections add to simplicity of use, and Dolby Pro Logic IIz decoding on all models provides for the enhanced audio experience of front height channels. The new receivers are also engineered throughout to provide consumers with all the features and capabilities they need to enjoy maximum compatibility with today’s home entertainment source components. For example, iPod connectivity is featured in all models throughout the line, with the AVR-1911, AVR-791 and higher models adding iPod Digital Direct via USB, which is also ‘Works with iPhone’ certified.

All models feature an updated easy-to-use graphical user interface (GUI) or On-Screen Display that make the steps of system setup, operation and displaying other important information much easier for the end user. Notably, the new models all feature on-screen display (OSD) or GUI overlay via the HDMI connection – eliminating the frustrating necessity of additional cable switching or programming interruptions when making adjustments, such as volume, while watching HD content. Further enhancing ease-of-use, all models feature Source/Quick Select Power On and Quick Select options on the front panel and remote control to give end users one button source, surround mode selection.

In keeping with Denon’s commitment to eco-friendly engineering throughout its product line, the standby power of all new receivers is below 0.1 watts, helping eliminate unnecessary power usage.

Denon A/V Receivers: The Culmination of 100 Years of Innovation
The audio/video receiver is at the heart of Denon’s ongoing mission to enhance and expand the home entertainment experience for discriminating consumers. Noted Phil Cohn, the company’s Sr. Vice President, Sales & Marketing: “Denon’s 100-year legacy has been distinguished by breakthrough technological innovation at virtually every stage of the evolution of home entertainment, particularly in our advanced audio/video receivers. This year’s product line expresses our expertise and drive for innovation, giving people new ways to experience their entertainment, from a dramatically enhanced surround sound experience to interactive web access, multi-zone networking and more. Importantly, our receivers also give content creators inspiring ways to reach audiences with their artistic creations as they were intended to be experienced, including music, movies, games and more.”

New Retail Home Theater Series Models: High-Value, High-Performance
Denon’s Retail Home Theater Series line for 2010 provides discriminating consumers with a host of upgraded features and capabilities at affordable prices. The line now features three 7-channel models (AVR-791, AVR-891, AVR-991), as well as two 5-channel models (AVR-591, AVR-391). All five offer many of the same high-quality features and capabilities that distinguish Denon receivers in the marketplace, including some of those found in the company’s CI models. Notably, the AVR-991 features Audyssey DSX with Front Height or Width Channels with Sirius Satellite Radio Ready capability, as well as being the least expensive Denon AVR with advanced networking that adds an RJ-45 Ethernet Port for third-party controllers, Mac/PC audio streaming, Internet Radio, Pandora, Flickr, a Web browser function and more. All models feature 24-bit/192-kHz Analog Devices DACs, and Audyssey Dynamic Volume, Audyssey Dynamic EQ and Audyssey MultEQ. All include analog-to-HDMI video conversion, while AVR-791 and higher feature 12-bit video processing and scaling from Anchor Bay Technologies (ABT).

Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio decoding in the new Retail Home Theater Series models allow for stunning delivery of today’s most advanced high-definition audio programming. Model AVR-991 features Anchor Bay Technologies advanced video deinterlacing and upscaling, converting SD sources to HD. And thanks to the dedicated Denon iPod dock accessory control port on all models, users may connect and control their iPod/iPod Touch or iPhone using one of Denon’s available iPod/iPhone docks, which provides on-screen artist, album and song information.

AVR-1911 and AVR-1611: Multi-Zone Functionality, HD Radio and More
Denon’s AVR-1911 AVR-1611 7-channel receivers represent the leading edge of today’s revolution in home entertainment system building. Both offer full two-zone A/V distribution capabilities, allowing users to enjoy a movie in full surround sound in the living room while listening to music distributed to a den or bedroom.* The AVR-1911 adds the advanced capability of a built-in HD Radio tuner, as well as iPod Direct Connectivity via USB and the most advanced Anchor Bay Technologies video deinterlacing and upscaling chipset for converting SD sources to HD.

Video demo after the cut

Because you’re wearing the speakers you’re always in the sweet-spot for the best surround effect, and there are closable flaps on each earphone to let you switch between open and closed cups.  In the box there’s a removable microphone boom together with a 5.1 channel headphone amp.

End result, Psyko say, is a system which better delivers precise surround sound effects to where you want them to go, adding up to a more immersive, accurate gaming experience.  That’s a good thing, as for $299.99 it’s about the same price as a regular entry-level big box surround sound system.

Press Release:

Psyko Audio Labs Announces the Immediate Availability of Psyko 5.1 PC Gaming Headset System to USA and Canada

Revolutionary PsykoWave 5.1 surround sound technology delivers a new layer of gaming immersion with precise 3D sound, instant positional awareness, and improved reaction times and kill ratios

Psyko ushers in the Dawn of Audio as a Weapon

Calgary, Alberta – April 22, 2010 – Psyko Audio Labs Inc., a leading innovator in PC Gaming headphone technology, is ecstatic to unleash the dawn of audio as a weapon through the immediate availability of the highly anticipated Psyko 5.1 PC Gaming Headset System to USA and Canada. Psyko’s patented PsykoWave Technology empowers PC Gamers with an unfair advantage over the competition through precise 3D sound that drastically heightens awareness of your gaming surroundings. Players can instantly identify and locate every gun shot, footstep, and explosion allowing for faster reaction times, higher player performance, and the most immersive gaming experience to date.
“Psyko 5.1 completely rethinks conventional headphone design and puts PC gamers directly in the sweet spot of a 5.1 room” remarks James Hildebrandt, CEO of Psyko Audio Labs. “You get natural surround sound with no latency, no simulation, and no hassles. This technology will completely shift the current landscape of gaming audio and usher in a new era of fully immersive gaming where audio is now a deadly weapon.“
The Psyko 5.1 PC Gaming Headset System is now available for $299.99 in the USA and Canada at major online stores such as Tigerdirect, Newegg, CompSource, and more, as well as in retail shops such as Frys Electronics. For additional information and a brief video demonstration, go to http://www.psykoaudio.com/

PsykoWave Technology – Psyko headphones deliver true 5.1 sound from 5 speakers strategically placed in the headband. The sound is channeled and flows to each ear in a natural way which allows everyone to enjoy true 5.1 sound.
o The headphone bridge houses 5 audio speakers (front left, center, front right, rear left and rear right) with a subwoofer in each ear cup for a total of 7 speakers.
o Sounds from each speaker carry throughout the Wave guides to pass over the front and back of both ears, giving users natural, not simulated, surround sound. For a demonstrational video on how this works, click HERE.
o Precise Simplicity – Another significant advantage to gamers is the simplicity and accuracy of speaker setup. Rather than the normal compromises in speaker positioning typical to 5.1 room systems, the speakers are in exactly the right spot automatically. You literally just put them on and you are in the optimal “sweet spot” of the 5.1 surround sound experience. Gamers often hear directional sound more accurately wearing the Psyko 5.1 headphones than they do with their 5.1 room system.
o Optimal Comfort– Psyko 5.1 gives the user control to either block outside sounds, or open the ear cup to vent their ears for cooling and to hear conversation in the room during game play. The headset is fully adjustable and provides maximum cushioning using fabric rather than faux leather or vinyl which gets slippery and itchy with sweat. Marathon gaming sessions have never been so comfortable.
o Psykowave Custom Sound Control – The Psyko 5.1 PC headphone amplifier allows control of the volume and bass levels as well as being the first headphone system to have lights that provide a visual indication of the direction of every sound. These amplifier lights provide a simple way to see if your computer is in stereo mode or using the full 5.1 surround sound mode.
o Removable Microphone – Psyko 5.1 comes with a removable microphone.

Psyko Audio Labs Inc. is a private, Calgary-based consumer electronics company, started in 2007 to revolutionize gaming headphones. Their main product, the Psyko 5.1 PC Gaming Headset with its patent pending PsykoWave technology, helps gamers instantly and accurately hear where everything is around them. Psyko 5.1’s natural abilities to create true surround sound provide a significant advantage over the alternative, where all sounds must be pre-processed to simulate directionality. www.psykoaudio.com

As for the HT-CT350, that has 400W (100 watts x 3 channels + 100 watts subwoofer) while the HT-CT150 has 340W (85 watts x 3 channels + 85 watts sub).  Both have three HDMI inputs and one HDMI output, and support LPCM Blu-ray Disc audio together with 3D pass-through.  They too have dual digital audio inputs, as well as BRAVIA Sync and iPod cradle compatibility.

The CT350 comes with a bracket for attaching it to Sony’s 40-inch and larger HDTVs, while the CT150 has the same for 32-inch sets.  Both sound bars will go on sale in May, priced at $400 for the CT350 and $300 for the C150.  Meanwhile the HT-SF470 will arrive in June, priced at $550.

Press Release:

SONY BOLSTERS AUDIO LINE WITH ITS FIRST 3D CAPABLE SOUND BARS AND A NEW 5.1 CHANNEL HOME THEATER SYSTEM

SAN DIEGO, April 21, 2010 – Strengthening the company’s breadth of innovative devices supporting the 3D home theater, Sony today introduced three new home audio solutions offering 3D capability.

The HT-CT350 and HT-CT150 3.1 channel sound bars and the HT-SF470 5.1 channel home theater system offers consumers flexible solutions to round out the Sony 3D experience and meet the demands of 3D home entertainment.

“Sony is the only company innovating in every stage of 3D from creation to playback,” said Brian Siegel, vice president of Sony’s home audio and video business. “Leveraging this depth of expertise and experience allows the company to deliver the best 3D devices for an unequaled entertainment experience.”

Simplifying audio and video signal transfer, the new models feature 3D pass-through with HDMI™ repeater (three inputs/one output), and standby pass-through for audio and video devices connected via HDMI. The 400 watt total system power (100 watts x 3 channels + 100 watts subwoofer) HT-CT350 is designed to match Sony’s 2010 BRAVIA® televisions and includes a bracket that attaches it directly to a number of 40 and above sets either via a wall mount or the table top stand.

The HT-CT150 offers 340 watts of total system power (85 watts x 3 channels + 85 watts sub) and features a design that matches Sony’s 2010 32-inch BRAVIA HDTVs.

Both models support lossless linear pulse code modulation (LPCM) Blu-ray Disc™ audio via the HDMI input. They also feature BRAVIA Sync™ for control of compatible devices from a single remote, Sony’s Digital Media Port for iPod® (iPod cradle sold separately) and two digital audio inputs (one coax and one optical).

Sony also introduced the new 5.1 channel HT-SF470 home theater system. The system is 3D capable when paired with a Blu-ray 3D™ player.

The 1000 watt (157W x 5 +167W sub) model features 3D pass-through via the three HDMI inputs, HDMI repeater and audio return channel. With floor standing front and rear speakers, the model’s S-Air™ wireless technology and wireless multi-room capabilities help trim the number of wires connecting the system with optional accessories (not included). Designed to match Sony’s 2010 Blu-ray Disc players and BRAVIA HDTVs, the model features BRAVIA Sync, Digital Media Port for iPod (iPod cradle sold separately), two digital audio inputs (one coax and one optical) and digital cinema auto calibration for easy set up.

The HT-CT350 40-inch sound bar system is available this May for about $400. The HT-CT150 32-inch sound bar system, also available this May, retails for about $300. The HT-SF470 surround sound system is available this June for about $550.

All models will be available at Sony Style stores, online at www.sonystyle.com, at military base exchanges and at authorized retailers nationwide.

Bizarrely, Leigh went on to say that the Android tablet “might not be an actual tablet”, though there was no explanation of exactly what that means; potentially HTC could be positioning whatever the device turns out to be as a supersized smartphone instead.  Specifications are similarly unknown, though the device is expected to have a large range of wireless connectivity options.

Leigh also suggested that HTC were planning to add 1080p Full HD video recording to their phones, potentially by Q2 2011, while Yamaha 5.1 surround sound capabilities may appear even sooner.  Meanwhile HSPA+ 14.4Mbps data speeds on HTC devices are tipped to arrive in Q3 2010.

[via Android Community]

Each set has four HDMI ports, surround sound outputs, Deep Color and x.v.Color, together with a USB input.  The 164 Series adds integrated WiFi for music and video streaming, Bluetooth A2DP support and various picture-tweaking systems, while the Diamond 265 Series gets an 18-speaker system, 240Hz picture and an optional iPhone remote control app, among other things.

The range kicks off with the 40-inch LT-40164 at $1,699, climbing all the way to $3,199 for the LT-55265.  Interestingly, despite the StreamTV branding there doesn’t appear to be any connection that we can see with the mysterious range of 3D-capable HDTVs that were spotted on Amazon earlier this week.

Press Release:

Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America Announces Its 2010 Unisen Immersive Sound TVs

New Edge-Lit LED Line-Up Includes Wireless Streaming Internet Media and New 55-Inch Screen Size

IRVINE, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America, Inc. today unveiled the third generation of its one-of-a-kind Unisen™ Immersive Sound LED TVs. The 2010 line is packed with significant, new features and supplants last year’s 52-inch models with a slim, impressive 55-inch screen size. Each new premium LED TV delivers the optimal blend of superior picture performance with unparalleled immersive sound technology, providing viewers with a complete sensory experience. Unisen will allow consumers to enjoy concert quality sound in their homes without the clutter of separate home theater components. The Unisen Immersive Sound LED TV 2010 line-up will feature screen sizes ranging from 40 to 55 inches.

“We’re giving consumers the television experience of an ultra high-end home theater system, seamlessly integrated into a sleek flat panel package you can only get from Mitsubishi.”
“Our unique brand of Unisen Immersive Sound LED TVs fill a significant void in the marketplace, by providing consumers with an efficient, streamlined home entertainment experience,” said Max Wasinger, executive vice president of sales and marketing, Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America. “Unisen continues to stand out in the endless sea of flat panel TVs, by uniting beautiful LED edge-lit imagery with fully integrated, multi-speaker immersive sound technology.”

Key features for 2010

Edge-lit LED: This cutting-edge backlighting technology bends and diffuses light for a sharper, brighter image. An added bonus: The arrangement of the LEDs along the edge of the screen makes an ultra-thin profile possible. LED-lit TVs are also more energy efficient than conventional CCFL backlit LCD TVs.
Immersive Sound Technology features 16 intelligent speakers that direct perfectly balanced audio waves beside and behind the user to reproduce 5.1 surround sound and create an unparalleled entertainment experience. Through the use of an advanced algorithm, the sound technology delays the sound beams and projects them independently from the 16 speakers at varying intervals, to create fully immersive surround sound.
StreamTV™ gives viewers instant access to an extensive library of high-quality entertainment and social media content. Grab your Unisen remote and choose from over 100 different streaming applications, including Vudu movies, Pandora, Flickr, Picasa, Facebook, Twitter, Associated Press, The New York Times and more.
Integrated Wireless Internet allows for seamless connectivity to your wireless home network, to stream your favorite movies and music from the internet to your Unisen Immersive Sound LED TV.
Bluetooth Audio Streaming lets you wirelessly stream audio from any Bluetooth® A2DP device (such as an iTouch/iPhone or Blackberry) to your Unisen TV. Now you can listen to your favorite music through Unisen’s Immersive Sound Technology, and still take your playlist with you wherever you go.
All 154, 164 and Diamond 265 series Unisen Immersive Sound LED TV models for 2010 include Edge-Lit LED Backlight, Multi-Speaker Immersive Sound Technology with Variable Subwoofer Output and Center Channel Mode, StreamTV™ Internet Media, new Thin Depth Design, True120Hz, Energy Star™ 4.0 Qualified, Clear Contrast Panel, Plush 1080p® 5G 12-bit Digital Video Processing, 6-Color Processor™, 4 HDMI™, Deep Color™ and x.v.Color™, Easy Connect™, USB Media Input, and Detachable IEC Power Cord.

The MDEA 164 series is available in 40, 46 and new 55-inch screen sizes, and in addition to the features above, includes 16-Speaker Immersive Sound Technology, Built-in Wireless Internet, Bluetooth A2DP Audio Streaming, EdgeEnhance™, DeepField Imager™ and Advanced Video Calibration.

The MDEA Diamond 265 series is available in 46 and new 55-inch screen sizes. In addition to all features within the 154 and 164 series, each Diamond model includes 18-Speaker Immersive Sound Technology, True240Hz, new Thin Depth Design with Blue Light Accent, Plush1080p® 5G 18-Bit Digital Video Processing, iPhone Remote Control App, Audio Calibration Microphone, Perfect Color™, PerfectTint™, ISFccc® Advanced Video Adjustments, NetCommand, and Wired IR input.

“It’s true that, for 2010, we’re taking sound and picture quality to a higher level, but the core strength of the Unisen Immersive Sound LED TV line remains the same,” says Frank DeMartin, vice president of marketing, Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America. “We’re giving consumers the television experience of an ultra high-end home theater system, seamlessly integrated into a sleek flat panel package you can only get from Mitsubishi.”

Unlike existing 7.1 systems, which use two rear speakers but each fed with the same channel, Dolby’s new setup will have two different channels for each.  For movie makers like Disney and Pixar, who Dolby have partnered with to demonstrate Dolby Surround 7.1, it means an increased ability to position sound in theatres.  Of course, we’ll have to wait for those theatres to actually roll it out first; no word on how expensive the upgrade might be, or what sort of timescale we’re looking at.

Press Release:

Dolby Unveils Dolby Surround 7.1 at ShoWest 2010

Dolby Works with Disney and Pixar to Create a New Audio Experience for Digital Cinema Audiences and Exhibitors

LAS VEGAS, Mar 16, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) — At ShoWest 2010, Dolby Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE:DLB), announced it is working with Walt Disney Pictures(R) and Pixar(R) Animation Studios to deliver a new audio format, Dolby(R) Surround 7.1. Disney(R) and Pixar have stated that Dolby Surround 7.1 will be launched in select theatres with the release of Toy Story(R) 3 in 3D this June.

“For 40 years Dolby has not only provided content creators with the tools to create a more realistic audio experience, but has also enabled the exhibitor to deliver audiences the ability to experience the content as the creator intended,” said Page Haun, Senior Director, Marketing, Cinema Market Segment, Dolby Laboratories. “The release of Toy Story 3 in a discrete 7.1 mix will raise the bar for movie theatre owners and their patrons.”

Dolby Surround 7.1 brings a more exciting sensory experience to audiences for 2D and gives content creators control over audio placement in a theatre when mixing 3D movies. The ability to compose audio with visual elements of 3D allows content creators to immerse the audience deeper into the movie with dramatic realism.

Dolby Surround 7.1 provides content creators four surround zones to better orchestrate audio channels in a movie theatre environment. The four surround zones incorporate the traditional Left Surround and Right Surround with new Back Surround Left and Back Surround Right zones. The addition of the two Back Surround zones enhances directionality in panning 360 degrees around the theatre.

Dolby Surround 7.1 format comprises 8 channels of audio and has the following channel layout: Left, Center, Right, Low-Frequency Effects (LFE), Left Surround, Right Surround, Back Surround Left (new), and Back Surround Right (new). In order for exhibitors to deliver the new format, Dolby will be providing Dolby Surround 7.1 playback capabilities in the Dolby CP650 and Dolby CP750 digital cinema audio processor lines.

At ShoWest, Dolby is demonstrating to exhibitors a discrete 7.1 mixed demo reel of past Pixar movies to showcase the advanced audio solution. After the show, exhibitors will be able to access the content to test and demonstrate in their theatres.

Exhibitors interested in learning more about Dolby Surround 7.1 should contact their nearest Dolby reseller or Dolby sales office.

That’s exactly what Dolby asked themselves, and fortunately for the rest of us, they came up with an answer. At this year’s Game Developer’s Conference (GDC), they announced the release of their latest audio technology, codenamed Axon. It is specifically designed to implement realistic voice communication. But it also adds surround panning and distance attenuation. Basically, the experience that Dolby Axon will provide will make your video game experience so much better, it will seem almost life-like.

The technology is already available on some PC games, but Dolby wants to let video game developers know that the technology is ready for their console-based games. The Axon technology is similar to that of Creative’s new World of Warcraft headset, that’s set to ship in the UK within a couple of weeks. Basically, users are able to experience THX surround sound, and also change their voice as if to sound like a character in the game. The technology is meant to make the experience clearer, more crisp, and accurate. The new technology will decrease lag as well, so no more yelling at a friend just to watch him die because of lag.

[via Pocket-Lint]

In this case, we’ve got the Asus Cine5, which is a smaller take on the more familiar sound bars out there. This model, which isn’t designed for the big TVs on the market, should fit pretty nicely right on your desk, if you like enjoying your music in a more robust kind of way. The Cine5 measures in at about 15-inches, but it’s got the typical five speaker set up under the hood. It’s also managed to squeeze a 28W max amp. There’s even a 3.5mm audio jack, if you feel inclined to plug your headphones in.

As we said, we love the looks of the majority of these surround sound bars, and the Asus Cine5 is no exception. It’s got a sleekness that captivates us. We’d even go as far as to say that it’s shiny, and that’s one of the best things about gadgets. Unfortunately, we don’t have any word on pricing or availability date, but we’re crossing our fingers that it’s sooner than later. We’re thinking a few people out there are going to want to take this thing home.

[via CrunchGear]

The TX-SA608 and TX-SA578 support seven channels of 190W and 160W respectively, along with Audyssey 2EQ, Audyssey Dynamic Volume and – on the SA608 only – Audyssey DSX support.  They’ll go on sale by the end of March, priced at 84,000 and 71,400 yen respectively ($950 and $808 respectively).

The mini-systems, the BASE-V30HDX and BASE-V20HDX, come with two stereo speakers and a sub, but offer five channels of regular 30W output (and a 60W sub output) if you want to hook up the full surround set.  Even without there’s virtual surround support, along with Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio.  They’ll go on sale in Japan on March 24th, priced at 74,800 and 64,800 yen respectively ($846 and $733 respectively).

As for the HTX-22HDX, that has three HDMI inputs (and one output), together with various analog and digital inputs.  As standard it offers two front stereo speakers and a sub, but there are outputs for a further center and rear speakers and in fact Onkyo have matching models to go with the set.  Each regular speaker channel gets 50W, while the subwoofer gets 60W, and the system supports Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio.