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Yamaha Announces AVENTAGE RX-A 70 Series Receivers with Dolby Atmos & DTS:X[teaser]Six new AV receivers have been revealed.[/teaser] Yamaha has detailed its eighth generation AVENTAGE series network AV receivers. The new RX-A 70 series includes the RX-A670, RX-A770, RX-A870, RX-A1070, RX-A2070 and RX-A3070. "By including the latest video technologies like Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log- Gamma HDR, Yamaha AVENTAGE receivers will keep home theater audiences enthralled - not only with dazzling 3D surround sound - but also realistically rich imagery," said Bob Goedken, general manager, AV division, Yamaha Corporation of America. "The high level of innovation and craftsmanship that Yamaha consistently achieves in the AVENTAGE series gives custom installers the flexibility and performance they need for quality installs. Our wireless expansion capabilities offered with MusicCast make AVENTAGE the most flexible system on the market today for the most challenging installations." The RX-A 70 series features support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersive audio formats. Likewise, the receivers offer 4K Ultra HD video pass-through with HDR10, Dolby Vision, and Hybrid Log Gamma high dynamic range support (the last two via a future firmware update set for this fall). In addition, the collection also uses Yamaha's MusicCast wireless multiroom audio system. Here's a full rundown of pricing and availability for the new RX-A 70 series: • RX-A670 7.2 Channel AV Receiver ($599.95; May availability) • RX-A770 7.2 Channel AV Receiver ($699.95; May availability) • RX-A870 7.2 Channel AV Receiver ($999.95; June availability) • RX-A1070 7.2 Channel AV Receiver ($1,299.95; June availability) • RX-A2070 9.2 Channel AV Receiver ($1,699.95; June availability) • RX-A3070 9.2 Channel AV Receiver expandable to 11.2 ($2,199.95; July availability) In addition to the upcoming RX-A 70 series, the company also recently launched the new RX-V 83 Series, including the 7.2-channel RX-V683 and RX-V583, and the 5.1-channel RX-V483 and RX-V383. Source: YamahaPosted Mon May 1, 2017 at 04:45 PM PDT by: -
Netflix Reveals Trailer for 'House of Cards' Season 5, Streaming Premiere Set for May 30[teaser]The political drama will return to Netflix later this month.[/teaser] Netflix has released a trailer for the upcoming fifth season of House of Cards. New episodes will start streaming on May 30. The fifth season will see Melissa James Gibson and Frank Pugliese taking over showrunning duties from Beau Willimon who oversaw the series' fourth season. "We and the rest of the House of Cards writers look forward to the next chapter of the reign of Underwood," said Gibson and Pugliese. Check out the official trailer below! House of Cards seasons one through four are now available to stream on Netflix. In the show's fourth season, the critically acclaimed Emmy nominated drama has its Golden Globe and SAG Award winning star Kevin Spacey (as Francis Underwood) and Golden Globe winner Robin Wright (as Claire Underwood), whose characters have always been each other's strongest allies, showing cracks in their relationship. In an election year, the stakes are now higher than ever, and the biggest threat they face is contending with each other. The show also stars Michael Kelly, Mahershala Ali, Jayne Atkinson, Neve Campbell, Derek Cecil, Nathan Darrow, Kim Dickens, Elizabeth Marvel, Dominique McElligott, Molly Parker, Paul Sparks, with Ellen Burstyn, Cicely Tyson and Joel Kinnaman. The Netflix original series is produced by Donen/Fincher/Roth and Trigger Street Productions, Inc. in association with Media Rights Capital for Netflix. Other upcoming Netflix premieres include Master of None season two on May 12, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt season three on May 19, War Machine on May 26, Orange is the New Black season five on June 9, GLOW on June 23, Naked on August 11, The Defenders on August 18, Death Note on August 25, and Stranger Things season two on October 31. A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Mon May 1, 2017 at 01:45 PM PDT by: -
HD Gear News Roundup: Dell HDR10 Monitor, LeEco Sale, NVIDIA SHIELD Updates, and More[teaser]We've compiled the latest gear news, including new HDR monitor, an LeEco TV sale, updated NVIDIA Shield features, and more![/teaser] From product announcements and streaming app updates to general industry news and recent gear trends, keeping up with the latest tech news can be a daunting task. With that in mind, we're here to offer you a roundup of some of the latest gear and consumer electronics news that you may have missed. For this edition, we're covering new HDR monitors from Dell, an upcoming Mother's Day sale from LeEco, Google Play 4K app support for the NVIDIA SHIELD, Sling TV updates, and Chromecast built-in support for Integra products. So, without further ado, here's a rundown of some of the latest gear and tech news: Dell Details New HDR Monitors Dell has announced its new UltraSharp 27 4K HDR Monitor (UP2718Q), the company's first HDR10 display with UHD Alliance Premium Certification. In addition, the display will also be joined by the new Dell UltraSharp 27 4K Monitor (U2718Q) and Dell UltraSharp 25 Monitor (U2518D). "As the No. 1 monitor brand in the world, we deliver the latest, most innovative display technology to our customers to meet and exceed their expectations, whether that's at work or at home," said Bert Park, senior vice president and general manager, Dell Software & Peripherals. "At NAB 2017, we’re proud to continue Dell’s tradition of world-class innovation – our first HDR monitor that meets HDR10 standard – by providing creators with the most strikingly accurate images and lifelike, unparalleled color performance." The UP2718Q features an Ultra HD 4K panel with HDR10 support and a peak brightness of 1,000 nits. Likewise, the display offers Dell PremierColor with 100 percent Adobe RGB, 100 percent sRGB, 100 percent REC 709, 97.7 percent DCI-P3 and 76.9 percent REC2020 coverage. Meanwhile, the upcoming Dell UltraSharp 27 4K Monitor (U2718Q) and Dell UltraSharp 25 Monitor (U2518D) will feature Dell’s innovative InfinityEdge display, Dell HDR support (not HDR10), and a flicker-free screen with ComfortView. The Dell UltraSharp 27 4K HDR Monitor (UP2718Q) will be available May 23 on Dell.com in the U.S. for $1,999.99. Meanwhile, the Dell UltraSharp 27 4K Monitor (U2718Q) will be available mid-July on Dell.com in the U.S. for $699.99. Finally, the Dell UltraSharp 25 Monitor (U2518D) will be available mid-July on Dell.com in the U.S. for $499.99. Source: Dell LeEco Preps Mother's Day Sale LeEco has announced plans to offer a special Mother's Day sale on select Ultra HD TVs, smartphones, and accessories. The promotion will begin on May 8 at 12:01 a.m. EDT, and will run through May 14 at 11:59 p.m. EDT. Here's a rundown of the upcoming deals: SMARTPHONES - Le S3: $169 (regularly $199 - $30 instant rebate) including a free case and screen protector and three months of DIRECTV NOW - LE Pro3: $299 (regularly $349 - $50 instant rebate) including a free EB30 Bluetooth headphone (regularly $39.99) and three months of DIRECTV NOW 4K ULTRA HD SMART TV - Super4 X43 Pro: $349 (regularly $549 - $200 instant rebate) and three months of DIRECTV NOW ACCESSORIES - Reverse In-ear Earphones: $4.99 (regularly $14.99 - $10 instant rebate) - Power Bank: $12.99 ($39.99 - $27 instant rebate) Source: LeEco NVIDIA SHIELD Adds 4K Cast & Google Play Movies Support NVIDIA has announced the addition of 4K Ultra HD playback support for Casting and Google Play Movies on the NVIDIA SHIELD TV. Other currently supported 4K apps include Netflix, YouTube, Amazon, VUDU, Plex, Kodi, and Vimeo. Under the hood, the NVIDIA Shield is powered by an NVIDIA Tegra X1 processor; 256 core NVIDIA graphics 64-bit CPU; and 3 GB of RAM. The player is also Android TV Google Cast Ready and offers 4K Ultra HD playback at 60 fps. Likewise, the streaming box includes support for 10-bit color and HDR (high dynamic range) content. The updated base model includes 16 GB of storage; a microSD card slot; Wi-Fi; Gigabit Ethernet; USB 3.0; and a micro-USB SHIELD controller along with support for next-gen Android games. In addition, a larger 500 GB model is also available. Source: NVIDIA, Engadget Integra Brings Chromecast Built-In & Voice Control to Home Theater Products Integra has released a new firmware upgrade for select home theater gear. The update offers support for Chromecast built-in audio streaming and voice control capability when used with Google Home. Chromecast built-in support allows users to stream music, Internet radio, podcasts, and other programs from Chromecast-enabled apps to compatible Integra home entertainment systems. Chromecast built-in is supported through iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, Android phones and tablets, Chromebook, and Chrome browser on Mac, Windows, and Linux PCs. Meanwhile, the firmware update adds support for voice control through the Google Home or other audio devices using Google Assistant as well, letting users search for content and play music on their Integra component through voice commands. The Chromecast built-in and voice control firmware update is now available for the Integra DRC-R1, DRX-R1, DRX-7, DRX-5, DRX-4, DRX-3, DRX-2, DSX-3 and DLB-5. Support: Integra Sling TV Offers AirTV Discount Bundle and Expands Cloud DVR Feature to Apple TV Sling TV has announced a new limited-time AirTV offer, allowing customers to snag a deal on the streaming player/OTA tuner. By prepaying for at least three months of Sling TV service, users can now get an AirTV Player and AirTV Adapter for only $50, which is $80 off the regular price of $130. Here's a rundown of the bundle options: - Prepay for three months of Sling TV if your base service is $20 or over and get AirTV Player and AirTV Adapter for $50.- Prepay for four months of Sling TV if your monthly payment is between $15-$20 and get AirTV Player and AirTV Adapter for $50.- Prepay for six months of Sling TV if your monthly payment is under $15 and get AirTV Player and AirTV Adapter for $50. Sling TV offers a variety of live streaming and on-demand programming packages. The base Sling TV Orange plan currently costs $20 per month and features more than 30 channels, including Disney/ESPN stations. Meanwhile, the base Sling TV Blue plan costs $25 per month and features more than 40 channels, including FOX and NBC stations. Finally, customers can also opt to combine both plans for $40 per month. Finally, Sling TV also announced an expansion of its Cloud DVR feature to the Apple TV, allowing users to purchase 50 hours of DVR storage for just $5 per month with any Sling TV subscription. Source: Sling TVPosted Mon May 1, 2017 at 01:20 PM PDT by: -
Streaming News Roundup: 'Star Trek: Discovery,' 'The Tick,' and More[teaser]Trailers, release dates, casting, and season pick-ups have been revealed for various streaming titles.[/teaser] Netflix, Amazon, and CBS All Access have released new trailers, date announcements, and other info for several of their upcoming shows and movies, including Star Trek: Discovery, The Tick, Ingobernable, and The Week Of. In addition, DC Entertainment has announced plans to launch a new digital service of its own, headlined by a live action Titans series. Check out a full rundown of the latest streaming news and trailers below: The Tick (Amazon Prime Video, August 25) - In a world where superheroes have been real for decades, an underdog accountant with zero powers comes to realize his city is owned by a global super villain long-thought dead. As he struggles to uncover this conspiracy, he falls in league with a strange blue superhero. The Tick stars Peter Serafinowicz (Guardians of the Galaxy), Griffin Newman (Vinyl), Jackie Earle Haley (Watchmen), Valorie Curry (House of Lies), Yara Martinez (Jane the Virgin) and Brendan Hines (Scorpion). The Tick is executive produced by Ben Edlund (Supernatural), Barry Josephson (Bones) and Barry Sonnenfeld (A Series of Unfortunate Events), directed by Wally Pfister (The Dark Knight), and written by Edlund. The Tick is a co-production with Sony Pictures Television. Ingobernable: Season 2 (Netflix, 2018) -Emilia Urquiza, is the First Lady of Mexico with big plans to improve conditions for the country through her commitment to fighting for peace. She is a woman with a strong personality, conviction and clear ideas that make her capable of doing anything. As Emilia starts to lose faith in her husband, President Diego Nava, she finds herself at a crossroad where she will need to find a way to deal with a great challenge and uncover the truth. The presidential couple will be joined by their two children Maria Nava Urquiza (Alicia Jaziz, Black Sheep, Gloria ) and Emiliano Nava Urquiza (Alessio Valentini,Yo Soy Pepito, Hasta que te Conocí). The Week Of (Netflix, 2018) - Icons Adam Sandler and Chris Rock will reunite to star in a new Netflix original film set to begin production in Long Island, New York this summer. The Week Of will be directed by veteran Saturday Night Live writer and producer Robert Smigel. The movie covers the week of preparation for a wedding in which Sandler's daughter is marrying Rock's son. Happy Madison Productions’ Adam Sandler and Allen Covert will serve as producers and Barry Bernardi and Tim Herlihy will serve as executive producers. Sandler and Smigel co-wrote the script. "Adam Sandler and Chris Rock are cornerstones of the Netflix comedy family and we are over the moon about these two legends reuniting to give our members worldwide a healthy dose of the hilarity that they have been creating together for years. Similar in the romantic comedy tone of Sandler's most recent film Sandy Wexler, this film will be the perfect vehicle for Sandler and Rock and their millions of fans around the world," said Ted Sarandos, Netflix Chief Content Officer. Meanwhile, CBS All Access has announced new cast additions for Star Trek Discovery. Shazad Latif, Rekha Sharma, Kenneth Mitchell, Clare McConnell, and Damon Runyan will now join previously announced cast members Sonequa Martin-Green, Doug Jones, Michelle Yeoh, Anthony Rapp, Chris Obi, Shazad Latif, Mary Chieffo, James Frain, Terry Serpico, Maulik Pancholy, Sam Vartholomeos, Jason Isaacs, Mary Wiseman, and Rainn Wilson. The new cast members are set to play: Shazad Latif will star as "Lieutenant Tyler," a Starfleet officer in the Federation. Latif is known for his role as Dr. Henry Jekyll in the television series Penny Dreadful. Rekha Sharma will star as "Commander Landry," the security officer of the Starship Discovery. Sharma’s television credits include Battlestar Galactica and The 100. Kenneth Mitchell will star as "Kol," a commanding officer in the Klingon Empire. Mitchell’s television credits include the fan-favorite Jericho on CBS, The Astronaut Wives Club and Frequency. Clare McConnell will star as "Dennas," a leader in the Klingon Empire. McConnell’s film credits include Dim the Fluorescents, slated for release this fall. Damon Runyan will star as "Ujilli," a leader in the Klingon Empire. Runyan’s television credits include Suits, Supernatural and Gangland Undercover. While a launch date has not been revealed yet, the series is set to air a special premiere episode on the CBS Television Network. Following that initial broadcast, all first run episodes of the show will be available exclusively through the CBS All Access streaming platform in the US. In addition, the series will stream globally (outside of the US and Canada) through Netflix. Finally, according to a report from The Hollywood Reporter, DC Entertainment is joining Warner Bros. and Digital Network Group to launch a new digital service in 2018. The upcoming streaming service will be geared toward fans of DC Comics and is set to include a new live action Titans series, as well as the third season of the animated show Young Justice: Outsiders. Titans comes from executive producers Greg Berlanti, Akiva Goldsman, DC Entertainment president and chief creative officer Geoff Johns, and Sarah Schechter. The show will be based on the Teen Titans comics, and will focus on characters like Dick Grayson (aka Robin and later Nightwing from the Batman series), Starfire, Raven, and more. An exact launch date for the new DC digital service has not been announced yet. - A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. - A current Amazon Prime subscription costs $99 per year or $11 per month. Likewise, Prime Instant Video is available as a standalone service for $9 per month. - A current CBS All Access subscription costs $5.99 per month with reduced commercials or $9.99 per month for a commercial-free plan. Sources: Amazon (YouTube), Netflix, CBS, The Hollywood ReporterPosted Mon May 1, 2017 at 06:00 AM PDT by: -
Hands On First Look: VIZIO 2017 P-Series, M-Series, and Sound Bars[teaser]Earlier this week, High-Def Digest was invited to attend VIZIO's Spring 2017 Showcase. Held at the New York Edition Hotel in NYC, the event spotlighted the company's newest P-Series, M-Series, and E-Series SmartCast Ultra HD displays, along with its latest sound bars and speakers. [/teaser] Building upon the already impressive bang-for-your buck performance found on VIZIO's previous 2016 lineup, these new display models aim to deliver updated features and an improved SmartCast user experience -- all while maintaining advanced picture quality tech like HDR and local dimming at the affordable price points the company is known for. It should be noted, however, that like last year, the new displays do not include TV tuners. With different gear setup in various rooms, I was treated to a series of demos and head-to-head comparisons, pitting the VIZIO products against key competitors while highlighting some of the notable differences between each set. But just how well did these new models stack up? And can a P-Series display really hold its own against an inky black OLED panel? Well, let's dig right into it! Note: VIZIO displays are on the left side and competitors are on the right side in the comparison photos. And my apologies for the quality -- my smartphone camera isn't the best at capturing HDR brightness levels in dark rooms. E-SERIES First up, VIZIO put the spotlight on its latest entry-level E-Series displays. For demo purposes, the company pitted its E65-E0 65-inch SmartCast Ultra HD Home Theater Display ($900) against Samsung's 65-inch UN65MU7000 Ultra HD TV ($1,680) in a dark room. The E-Series model features full-array local dimming with 12 zones. Meanwhile, the Samsung model uses an edge-lit backlight with no local dimming functionality. Each unit supports the playback of HDR10 content but neither offers support for Dolby Vision. In the head-to-head, both displays were set to play back the same scene from Alejandro Iñárritu's The Revenant on Ultra HD Blu-ray in HDR through their movie calibration modes. While I'm not sure if further calibration or other setting adjustments could have yielded different results, as presented, the VIZIO model offered some very noticeable improvements over the Samsung. The E-Series provided a relatively deep sense of black thanks to its local dimming zones, but the Samsung's conventional edge-lit panel resulted in a noticeably washed out image with grey blacks and some uneven backlight bleeding visible. More surprising, however, was the difference in color between the two. The VIZIO demonstrated more pop with particularly lush greens in the forest location on-screen. Meanwhile, the Samsung looked quite undersaturated by comparison. Again, it's possible that fiddling with the Samsung's settings might create better results, but as demoed, the VIZIO was clearly superior to the more expensive MU7000. 2017 VIZIO E-Series displays with HDR10 support are currently available in sizes ranging from 55-inches to 80-inches, with prices starting at $550 and capping off at $3,400. M-SERIES Moving on to the company's step-up Ultra HD display series, VIZIO also demoed its 2017 M-Series. For this head-to-head, the M65 65-inch Ultra HD HDR XLED Plus Display ($1,500) was mounted next to Samsung's 65-inch Class Q7F QLED 4K TV ($3,500). The VIZIO model boasts the company's new XHDR Plus and Xtreme Black Engine Plus tech for improved HDR10 and Dolby Vision support with fullscreen brightness performance of 350 nits, peak brightness of 600 nits, and full-array local dimming with 32 active zones. In addition, the 2017 model now includes Ultra Color Spectrum capabilities for close to 100% coverage of the P3 wide color gamut -- something that was only found on the P-Series last year. Likewise, though not available now, VIZIO stated that a future HDR10+ update could be a possibility once the spec is finalized. Meanwhile, the Samsung model features an edge-lit panel with local dimming, quantum dots, HDR10, and HDR10+ support (but not Dolby Vision). For this demo, both displays played back a scene from Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice on Ultra HD Blu-ray in HDR10 through their respective movie modes. Though overall color and clarity were quite similar this time around, the VIZIO model once again demonstrated clear benefits with its backlighting. The full-array local dimming zones produced a deep level of black while maintaining solid shadow details and uniformity in Bruce Wayne's gloomy batcave. On the other hand, the Q7's edge-lit dimming introduced very noticeable bright spots in specific vertical columns on the panel where the zones would need to increase their brightness. The more precise dimming on the M-Series also led to superior HDR performance, allowing the set to pin-point highlights better without the uneven brightening and vertical blooming of the Samsung. VIZIO's 2017 M-Series is now available in sizes ranging from 50-inches to 75-inches, with prices starting at $800 and maxing out at $3,000. P-SERIES For the final display demo, VIZIO brought out its flagship 2017 P-Series and rather bravely placed its P65 65-inch Ultra HD HDR XLED Pro Display ($2,000) head-to-head against one of LG's highly praised 2016 B6 65-inch OLED models ($3,500). Though the hardware is actually the same as last year's models, the 2017 P-Series does feature some firmware upgrades (also set for the 2016 units) using the company's new XHDR Pro and Xtreme Black Engine Pro tech for an improved full-array local dimming algorithm with 128 zones (126 on the 55-inch), and optimized HDR10 and Dolby Vision playback at 600 nits. In addition, the displays maintain Ultra Color Spectrum capabilities for close to 100% coverage of the P3 wide color gamut. And, as with the M-Series, an HDR10+ update could be a possibility down the road. Meanwhile, the LG B6 uses an OLED panel for superior black levels and includes Ultra HD Premium certification with HDR10, Dolby Vision, a fullscreen brightness performance of around 180 nits, and peak performance at around 700 nits. For the side-by-side demonstration both displays played back a scene from Lucy on Ultra HD Blu-ray in HDR10 in their calibrated modes. And while VIZIO humbly acknowledged that the more expensive OLED did have them beat in certain picture quality aspects, the P-Series held its own surprisingly well. In fact, certain HDR elements actually performed slightly better on the P65. Due to its fullscreen 600 nits performance, the VIZIO was able to handle specular highlights better in brighter scenes, even bringing out a bit more detail in Scarlett Johansson's pores in a close-up shot. In contrast, the LG was able to bring more intensity to smaller highlights in darker scenes, including stars in a black sky. Black levels were also quite similar from a direct angle, though the LG still had an inkier appearance. Likewise, off-angle performance gave the OLED a clear win, as the B6 was able to maintain color and contrast from a side view while the VIZIO washed out significantly. Still, even though the B6 presented an overall superior picture, the difference between the two was relatively small considering the massive price difference. The 2017 VIZIO P-Series is now available in 55-inch ($1,300), 65-inch (2,000), and 75-inch screen sizes (3,500) -- losing the 50-inch model from last year. It should be noted, however, that just like the 2016 models, the 55-inch set uses an IPS panel (known for weaker blacks) and the 65-inch and 75-inch use VA panels. Likewise, since the 2016 P-Series units are set to receive the same picture quality firmware updates as the 2017 versions, the current price difference between them is a little perplexing. In other words, I'd recommend snagging a cheaper 2016 P-Series model while you can. SMARTCAST UPDATES In addition to highlighting the new lineup's picture quality performance, VIZIO also demoed some of its new SmartCast features. First implemented in the company's 2016 lineup, the SmartCast platform features Chromecast built-in, allowing users to cast content to and control their displays through the SmartCast app on Android and iOS mobile devices from any room in the home -- delivering an entirely different method for smart display streaming compared to other manufacturers. SmartCast users can also search and browse content by genre across multiple apps at once. For 2017, however, VIZIO has done away with the included Android tablet remotes found with the 2016 M-Series and P-Series. Instead, the displays now feature standard IR remotes, leaving the touch screen control option to a customer's separate mobile device. With that said, a firmware update set for release this summer will actually allow all 2017 SmartCast owners and all 2016 Ultra HD SmartCast owners to browse curated streaming apps directly on the big screen with the standard remote. The direct on-screen interface resembles the mobile experience and offers an emphasis on convenient content discovery. Likewise, users can easily transition from mobile to big-screen navigation and streaming, picking up right where they left off. Finally, VIZIO also demoed the SmartCast platform's support for voice controls through Google Home or other Google Assistant devices. To this end, we were able to start playing an episode of the Netflix series Chef's Table by simply speaking the command to a Google Home speaker. SOUND BARS & CRAVE GO Capping off the showcase, VIZIO presented a few demonstrations for its new audio products as well, starting with the latest addition to the Crave Audio collection. The SmartCast Crave Go Multi-Room Wireless Speaker ($200) features a sleek metal grill, rubberized back for an enhanced grip, and built-in folding kickstand. Likewise, the device offers a built-in rechargeable battery for up to six hours of on-the-go use. Under the hood, the Crave Go uses custom-crafted 2-inch stereo drivers and a shared passive radiator for up to 88dB with bass as low as 75Hz. SmartCast capabilities with Chromecast built-in and multi-room Wi-Fi streaming are integrated as well, along with Bluetooth connectivity. For the demo, I sampled a music track streaming from Google Play, and though overall performance was solid with ample power during my limited listen, the audio did sound a little muddy, lacking the crisp highs found in more robust speakers. Next, the company turned its attention to two new sound bar models. First up, was the SB3621n 36-inch 2.1 Sound Bar System ($150). Though this 2017 model does away with the ultra-slim subwoofer found with some of the 2016 units (which will carry over to 2017), the new wireless sub is still relatively space-saving and the sound bar itself features a lower height so it doesn't block your TV. For demo purposes, VIZIO played the scene from Jurassic World where the kids get attacked by the Indominus rex in their sphere. 2-channel imaging was quite impressive with a surprisingly wide soundfield for a 36-inch bar. Likewise, the woofer balanced well with the main unit, offering solid kick behind each stomp and roar with just a tiny hint of distortion during one loud effect. Lastly, the final demo showed off the new SB3651 SmartCast 36-inch 5.1 Wireless Sound Bar System ($250). This model features the same subwoofer as the 2.1-channel version, along with a 3-channel sound bar unit, and two separate rear satellite speakers to create a compact surround sound system. For the demo, VIZIO played an action scene from Star Wars: The Force Awakens, and similar to previous 5.1 models I've heard from the company, the results were very impressive. Swooping X-Wings and TIE Fighters moved about the soundstage with surprising precision, naturally transitioning from the left, right, and rear as laser blasts filled the room. Bass was ample as well and speech was properly centralized and nicely balanced. Though it can't quite compete with beefier full surround sound or Dolby Atmos/DTS:X systems, considering its size and price, performance was fantastic. FINAL THOUGHTS As my demo time came to a close, I was once again impressed by VIZIO's penchant for balancing performance and affordability. With some strong new sound bars and an updated M-Series with wide color gamut support starting at just $800, these 2017 models look like very enticing options. With that said, while the 2017 P-Series remains very impressive, its identical picture quality performance to the 2016 models makes me wonder why new 2017 branding was necessary at all -- especially since this year's models currently feature higher price points and no Android tablets. Still, it's actually quite commendable that the company is willing to keep 2016 models up to date, making last year's P-Series an even greater value. For now, what do you think about VIZIO's 2017 display and audio lineup? Will you be picking up any of the new models? Let us know your thoughts in the forums, and be sure to check back at High-Def Digest for more new gear demos, reviews, guides, and news!Posted Thu Apr 27, 2017 at 07:40 PM PDT by: -
Pioneer & Onkyo Launch Chromecast Built-In Support and Google Home Voice Control for Select Audio Products[teaser]The casting tech is now available on select audio devices.[/teaser] Onkyo and Pioneer have released a firmware update for select audio gear adding support for Google's Chromecast built-in technology. Likewise, the update also offers voice control support through the Google Home speaker or future Google Assistant Audio devices. In addition, Pioneer has launched its new MRX-3 Multi-Room Wireless Speaker and Onkyo has launched its new NCP-302 Multi-room Wireless Speaker. Both models include Chromecast-built-in and are now available for an MSRP of $349 (USD) each. Chromecast built-in tech allows customers with Chromecast-enabled AV products to use their mobile devices to stream music, radio, or podcasts, and control the audio from anywhere in the house using Cast-enabled mobile apps for iPhone, iPad, Android, Mac and Windows laptop, and Chromebook. Meanwhile, users can also now use their Google Home or other Google Assistant devices to control supported Pioneer and Onkyo components with voice commands, allowing customers to simply speak instructions for streaming services, song or album selections, volume adjustments, and other playback operations. Here's a full rundown of Pioneer and Onkyo devices eligible for the Chromecast built-in firmware update: Pioneer Elite A/V Receivers - VSX-LX101 - VSX-LX301 - SC-LX501 - SC-LX701 - SC-LX801 - SC-LX901 Pioneer A/V Receivers - VSX-S520 - VSX-831 - VSX-832 - VSX-1131 Pioneer 2-Channel Components - XC-HM86 - SX-S30 Pioneer Mini Stereo System - X-HM76 Pioneer Sound Bars System - FS-EB70 - Pioneer Wireless Speaker - MRX-3 Onkyo A/V Receivers & Pre-Amp - TX-NR555 - TX-NR656 - TX-NR757 - TX-RZ610 - TX-RZ710 - TX-RZ810 - TX-RZ1100 - TX-RZ3100 - PR-RZ5100 - TX-NR676 - TX-NR575 - TX-8270 Onkyo Home Theater Systems & Sound Bars - HT-S7800 - SBT-A500 Onkyo Wireless Speaker - NCP-302 Sources: Onkyo, PioneerPosted Tue Apr 25, 2017 at 07:20 PM PDT by: -
VIZIO Releases 2017 P-Series & M-Series Ultra HD HDR Displays, Prices Start at $800[teaser]The new lineup features local dimming along with HDR10 and Dolby Vision support.[/teaser] VIZIO has unveiled its 2017 P-Series and M-Series collection of Ultra HD displays. Models rage in size from 50-inches to 75-inches with prices starting at $800. The flagship P-Series features XLED Pro full-array local dimming backlight technology with Xtreme Black Engine Pro and up to 128 local dimming zones. In addition, the displays offer XHDR Pro with Dolby Vision and HDR10 content support, along with Ultra Color Spectrum, which provides over one billion colors. SmartCast capabilities are included as well, allowing customers to control their displays through the SmartCast mobile app for iOS and Android devices. Likewise, an update set for this summer will also enable users to browse streaming apps directly on the big screen with the included remote. Here's a rundown of models and pricing for the 2017 P-Series: - VIZIO SmartCast™ P-Series™ 55” Ultra HD HDR XLED Pro™ Display™ (P55) MSRP $1,299.99 - VIZIO SmartCast™ P-Series™ 65” Ultra HD HDR XLED Pro™ Display™ (P65) MSRP $1,999.99 - VIZIO SmartCast™ P-Series™ 75” Ultra HD HDR XLED Pro™ Display™ (P75) MSRP $3,499.99 Meanwhile, the M-Series features XLED Plus full-array local dimming backlight technology with Xtreme Black Engine Plus and 32 local dimming zones. In addition, the displays offer XHDR Plus with Dolby Vision and HDR10 content support, along with Ultra Color Spectrum, which provides over one billion colors. And like the step-up P-Series, SmartCast capabilities are included as well, allowing customers to control their displays through the SmartCast mobile app for iOS and Android devices. Likewise, the M-Series will also receive an update enabling users to browse streaming apps directly on the big screen with the included remote. Here's a rundown of models and pricing for the 2017 M-Series: - VIZIO SmartCast™ M-Series™ 50” Ultra HD HDR XLED Plus™ Display™ (M50) MSRP $799.99 - VIZIO SmartCast™ M-Series™ 55” Ultra HD HDR XLED Plus™ Display™ (M55) MSRP $999.99 - VIZIO SmartCast™ M-Series™ 65” Ultra HD HDR XLED Plus™ Display™ (M65) MSRP $1,499.99 - VIZIO SmartCast™ M-Series™ 70” Ultra HD HDR XLED Plus™ Display™ (M70) MSRP $1,999.99 - VIZIO SmartCast™ M-Series™ 75” Ultra HD HDR XLED Plus™ Display™ (M75) MSRP $2,999.99 The VIZIO 2017 P-Series and M-Series Ultra HD HDR SmartCast Displays are now available through VIZIO.com. Be sure to check back at High-Def Digest soon for hands-on impressions of the new lineup! Source: VIZIOPosted Tue Apr 25, 2017 at 05:00 AM PDT by:
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VIZIO Unveils SmartCast Crave Go Speaker & 2017 Sound Bar Collection[teaser]Several new audio products have been detailed.[/teaser] VIZIO has announced the launch of its 2017 Sound Bar lineup. In addition, the company has also released its new SmartCast Crave Go Multi-Room Wireless Speaker. New sound bar models range from simple 2-channel solutions to full 5.1 systems with SmartCast capabilities. SmartCast models offer Chromecast built-in with Wi-Fi streaming support and the option to use a mobile device as a touchscreen remote with the VIZIO SmartCast Mobile app for iOS and Android. The flagship SmartCast 36" 5.1 Wireless Sound Bar model features a 3-channel sound bar capable of 101 dB of room-filling sound. In addition, the system also includes a wireless subwoofer and two satellite speakers to provide a complete surround sound experience. Here's a rundown of 2017 VIZIO sound bar models and pricing: - VIZIO 28” 2.0 Sound Bar (SB2820n) MSRP $79.99 - VIZIO 36” 2.1 Sound Bar System (SB3621n) MSRP $149.99 - VIZIO 32” 5.1 Sound Bar System (SB3251n) MSRP $229.99 - VIZIO SmartCast™ 36” 5.1 Wireless Sound Bar System (SB3651) MSRP $249.99 Meanwhile, VIZIO has also announced the launch of its latest Crave Audio model, the SmartCast Crave Go Multi-Room Wireless Speaker. The device features a sleek metal speaker grill, rubberized back for an enhanced grip, and built-in folding kickstand. Likewise, the device offers a built-in rechargeable battery for up to six hours of on-the-go use. Under the hood, the Crave Go uses custom-crafted drivers for up to 88dB with bass as low as 75Hz. SmartCast capabilities with Chromecast built-in and multi-room Wi-Fi streaming are integrated as well, allowing users to stream music from many popular apps like iHeartRadio, Google Play Music, Pandora, Spotify and more. In addition, customers can also control the speaker through the VIZIO SmartCast Mobile app on iOS and Android devices. Finally, the Crave Go features Bluetooth capabilities as well. The VIZIO SmartCast Crave Go Multi-Room Wireless Speaker is now available at VIZIO.com for $200. Likewise, the 2017 sound bar collection is now rolling out to VIZIO.com as well. Be sure to check back at High-Def Digest soon for hands-on impressions of the new lineup! Source: VIZIOPosted Tue Apr 25, 2017 at 05:00 AM PDT by: -
HDD Gear Deals: Up to 44% off Home Theater Systems[teaser]Amazon is offering big discounts on select home theater packages![/teaser] As part of the online retailer's ongoing deals, Amazon is running a sale on home theater systems from LG, Klipsch, Onkyo, Sony, and Yamaha. LG Electronics BH5140S Blu-ray Home Theater System (Certified Refurbished) - Currently $140 (44% off). Klipsch Quintet V(5) Home Theater System with Onkyo TX-NR626 - Currently $1,099 (30% off). Onkyo HT-S5800 5.1.2-Channel Dolby Atmos Home Theater Package - Currently $580 (27% off). Sony BDV-E2100 3D Smart Blu-ray Home Theater System (Certified Refurbished) - Currently $200 (20% off). Yamaha YHT-5920UBL MusicCast Home Theater in a Box - Currently $600 (14% off). Yamaha YHT-4920UBL 5.1-Channel Home Theater in a Box - Currently $460 (13% off). Yamaha YHT-3920UBL 5.1-Channel Home Theater in a Box - Currently $430 (10% off). These deals will only be active for a limited time while supplies last. Make sure to stay tuned to High-Def Digest for more sales and special promotions!Posted Mon Apr 24, 2017 at 06:00 PM PDT by: -
Streaming News Roundup: 'Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,' 'Bloodline,' and More[teaser]Trailers, release dates, casting, and season pick-ups have been revealed for various streaming titles.[/teaser] Netflix and Hulu have released new trailers and date announcements for several of their upcoming shows and movies, including Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Season 3, The Keepers, Bloodline: The Final Season, F Is for Family: Season 2, Disjointed, and Batman and Bill. Likewise, Hulu has ordered a news series called Locke & Key, Crackle has announced a second season pickup for Snatch, and Amazon has announced casting for its upcoming anthology series Philip K. Dick's Electric Dreams. Check out a full rundown of the latest streaming news and trailers below: Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Season 3 (Netflix, May 19) - Ellie Kemper stars as Kimmy Schmidt, a woman who escapes from a doomsday cult and starts life over in New York. Armed with just a backpack, light-up sneakers, and a couple of way-past-due library books, she's ready to take on a world she didn't even think existed anymore. Wide-eyed but resilient, nothing is going to stand in her way. The Keepers (Netflix, May 19) - Amateur detectives in Baltimore attempt to solve the nearly 50-year-old murder of Sister Catherine Cesnik. The mystery unfolds in this docuseries. Bloodline: The Final Season (Netflix, May 26) - The Emmy®, Golden Globe®, and WGA nominated dramatic thriller explores the demons lurking beneath the surface of a contemporary American family. In Bloodline, the Rayburns are hard-working pillars of their Florida Keys community, but their past contains dark secrets that they hope remain buried. Paranoia and mistrust build as lies pile up, alliances are shattered, and an unthinkable crime takes place. The tight-knit family's formerly harmonious relationship deteriorates, and good people are forced to consider doing very bad things. F Is for Family: Season 2 (Netflix, May 30) - Follow the Murphy family back to the 1970s, when kids roamed wild, beer flowed freely and nothing came between a man and his TV. Disjointed (Netflix, August 25) - She's living her dream as the owner of a cannabis dispensary. She and the budtenders — her son and a guard -- are pretty much constantly high. A modern twist on the American Dream, Disjointed is a story of the highs, the lows, and half-baked drama of a family-run marijuana dispensary. Batman and Bill (Hulu, May 6) - The most mysterious man in Gotham City wasn't in a mask and cape. Documentary about the uncredited co-creator of Batman, Bill Finger. In addition, according to a report from Deadline, Hulu has ordered a pilot for Locke & Key. The a one-hour horror/fantasy drama is based on the IDW comic by Joe Hill and Gabriel Rodriguez. Carlton Cuse (Lost, Bates Motel) is on board as showrunner and Scott Derrickson (Doctor Strange) will direct. The story follows three siblings who move to their ancestral home in Maine after their father is murdered. Once there, the trio learn that the house has magical keys that give them numerous powers. Meanwhile, according to a report from Variety, Amazon and Channel 4 have announced new cast additions for Philip K. Dick's Electric Dreams. Steve Buscemi, Greg Kinnear and Mireille Enos will now join previously announced cast members Bryan Cranston, who also serves as an executive producer, Timothy Spall, Anne Reid, Tuppence Middleton, Hayley Squires, Jack Reynor, Benedict Wong and Geraldine Chaplin. Cranston also serves as an executive producer for the 10-episode anthology series featuring adaptations of sci-fi author Philip K. Dick's works. The writer's short stories and novels have previously inspired films and TV shows like Blade Runner, Minority Report, Total Recall, A Scanner Darkly, and the Amazon original series The Man in the High Castle.' Screenwriters set to contribute to the show include Dee Rees (Bessie), Tony Grisoni (Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas), Jack Thorne (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child), Matthew Graham (Life on Mars), David Farr (The Night Manager), Travis Beacham (Pacific Rim), Ron Moore (Outlander), and Michael Dinner (Justified). An exact premiere date has not been announced yet, but ' will stream through Prime Video in the US. Meanwhile, the show will be broadcast through Channel 4 in the UK. Finally, according to the Hollywood Reporter, Crackle has announced a season two renewal for its original series Snatch. The show stars Rupert Grint and is an adaptation of the 2000 film of the same name directed by Guy Ritchie. An exact release date has not been announced, but the second season is set for a 2018 debut. The cult classic film Snatch is now a high-stakes, high-octane Crackle Original Series. Get in on the action, gangster mentality, heists and rapid-fire dialogue that earned the original movie a shite-load of fans. Snatch streams free on Crackle March 16. Starring Rupert Grint (Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets), Luke Pasqualino (Battlestar Gallactica: Blood & Chrome), Lucien Laviscourt (The Bye Bye Man), Marc Warren (Wanted, Hustle), Stephanie Leonidas (American Gothic), Phoebe Dynevor (Waterloo Road), Juliet Aubrey (The Infiltrator, The Constant Gardener), Tamer Hassan (Layer Cake, Kick-Ass), Dougray Scott (Mission: Impossible III, Taken 3) and Ed Westwick (Gossip Girl). And in addition to Snatch, Crackle has also picked up the animated comedy SuperMansion from Stoopid Buddy Stoodios for a third season, along with series order for The Oath, a new crime drama from producer Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson. - A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. - A current Amazon Prime subscription costs $99 per year or $11 per month. Likewise, Prime Instant Video is available as a standalone service for $9 per month. - A current Hulu subscription starts at $8 per month with commercials. In addition, ad-free playback is available for $12 per month. - Crackle is a free digital entertainment network that offers movies, TV shows, and original content without a subscription. Sources, Netflix (Youtube), Hulu (YouTube), Deadline, Variety, The Hollywood ReporterPosted Mon Apr 24, 2017 at 05:30 PM PDT by:
