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HDD Gear Deals: Up to 50% off Klipsch Reference Speakers![teaser]Klipsch is offering limited time discounts on select audio gear![/teaser] In celebration of March Madness, Klipsch is running a special "March Loudness" sale on its Reference Speaker lineup. These are all limited time discounts, with most of the deals set to end on April 1. Klipsch R-20B Bluetooth Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer - Currently $399 (50% off). Klipsch Klipsch R-24F Floorstanding Speaker (Each) - Currently $179 (28% off). Klipsch R-15M Bookshelf Speaker (Pair) - Currently $199 (20% off). Klipsch R-26F Floorstanding Speaker (Each) - Currently $279 (20% off). Klipsch Reference R-10SW Surround Subwoofer - Currently $279 (20% off). Klipsch Reference RSB-11 Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer - Currently $499 (17% off). Klipsch R-12SW 12-Inch Front-Firing Subwoofer - Currently $389 (14% off). Klipsch Reference RSB-6 Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer - Currently $349 (13% 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 Thu Mar 30, 2017 at 05:00 PM PDT by: -
Netflix Presents Full Trailer for 'War Machine' Starring Brad Pitt[teaser]The war film from director David Michôd will hit Netflix in May.[/teaser] Following an initial teaser, Netflix has released a full trailer for its latest original film, War Machine. The movie stars Brad Pitt and is set to start streaming exclusively through Netflix on May 26. In a film for our times, writer-director David Michôd (Animal Kingdom) recreates a U.S. General's roller-coaster rise and fall as part reality, part savage parody – raising the specter of just where the line between them lies today. His is an anti-establishment, pro-soldier exploration in the form of an absurdist war story of a born leader's ultra-confident march right into the dark heart of folly. At the story's core is Brad Pitt's sly take on a successful, charismatic four-star general who leapt in like a rock star to command NATO forces in Afghanistan, only to be taken down by his own hubris and a journalist’s no-holds-barred expose. War Machine addresses the debt we owe to soldiers to question the purposes to which they are being directed. Check out the official trailer below! The movie is inspired by the book "The Operators: The Wild & Terrifying Inside Story of America's War in Afghanistan" by the late journalist Michael Hastings. The cast also includes Tilda Swinton, Sir Ben Kingsley, Anthony Michael Hall, Topher Grace, Will Poulter, Lakeith Stanfield, Emory Cohen, John Magaro, RJ Cyler, Alan Ruck, Scoot McNairy and Meg Tilly. Other upcoming Netflix premieres include The Discovery on March 31, 13 Reasons Why on March 31, Girlboss on April 21, Bill Nye Saves the World on April 21, Dear White People on April 28, Casting JonBenet on April 28, Master of None season two on May 12, Anne on May 12, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt season three on May 19, House of Cards season five on May 30, Orange is the New Black season five on June 9, GLOW on June 23, Naked on August 11, 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: Netflix (YouTube)Posted Thu Mar 30, 2017 at 04:30 PM PDT by: -
Pioneer Reveals VSX-832 5.1 Channel Receiver with 3.1.2 Dolby Atmos & DTS:X Support[teaser]The latest Pioneer AV receivers have been detailed.[/teaser] Pioneer has announced the upcoming release if its VSX-832 5.1-Channel AV Receiver. The device will be the company's first to support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X through a 2.1.2 or 3.1.2 configuration. In addition, Pioneer has also detailed its new entry-level VSX-532 5.1-Channel AV Receiver. The VSX-832 is a 5.1 channel receiver with 165 W/ch (6 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 10 %, 1ch Driven) or 80 W/ch (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, THD 0.08 %, 2ch Driven FTC). In addition, the device uses digital signal processing technology developed by Dolby. With this Surround Enhancer tech, 2.1.2 or 3.1.2 Dolby Amtos setups can be virtually expanded to simulate 5.1.2, creating an immersive sound field. Likewise, the receiver also supports 2.1.2 or 3.1.2 DTS:X setups. The VSX-832 includes Dolby Vision support as well, along with robust connectivity options like FireConnect, DTS Play-Fi, Chromecast built-in, Apple AirPlay, and built-in dual band Wi-Fi. Meanwhile, both the VSX-832 and entry-level VSX-532 offer Bluetooth and Ultra HD Pass-through with HDCP 2.2 (4K/60p/4:4:4) and HDR10 support. When it comes to output, the VSX-532 provides 150 W/ch (6 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 10 %, 1ch Driven) or 80 W/ch (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, THD 0.08 %, 2ch Driven FTC). Pioneer's VSX-832 5.1 Channel Network AV Receiver will be available in April for an MSRP of $479, and the VSX-532 5.1 Channel AV Receiver will be available later this month for an MSRP of $379. Outside of Pioneer, sister brand Onkyo recently announced two new mid-range receiver models with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. The upcoming TX-NR676 7.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver ($649) and TX-NR575 7.2-Channel A/V Network Receiver ($549) are set for release in May. Source: PioneerPosted Thu Mar 30, 2017 at 02:10 PM PDT by: -
Samsung Announces April 21 Launch Date for New Gear VR Headset with Controller[teaser]The 2017 edition of the Gear VR with new controller will be available next month.[/teaser] Samsung has announced pricing and availability for the latest version of its Gear VR. The new model with controller will be available on April 21 for $130. Likewise, customers will also be able to purchase the controller separately that same day for $40. "At Samsung, we are focused on setting and exceeding the standard for VR experiences, making them even more accessible and delivering the highest in quality," said Younghee Lee, Executive Vice President of Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics. "The Gear VR with Controller expands our VR ecosystem to help consumers get more engaged and immersed in VR content – whether it’s games or videos." The Gear VR headset features 42mm lenses with a 101-degree FOV (Field of View), and advanced distortion correction technology to minimize motion sickness. The device supports both micro USB and USB Type-C port with a converter in-box. In addition, the 2017 headset comes with a new controller for better motion interaction along with a strap to hold it in place when not in use. Here's a rundown of key features for the controller per Samsung: - Various Motion Input for a Better VR Experience: The Touchpad provides quicker selection and interaction in VR apps, enabling various forms of motion, including the ability to point, drag and drop, tilt, shoot, among other actions, while the Trigger allows for enhanced gaming experiences. - Minimized Movement for Long-time Use: The Home, Volume and Back keys located on the Controller give users everything they need in easy reach so that they can keep their focus on immersive content. - A Secure Grip for Comfortable Play: Even during the most active movements, the Controller’s wrist strap offers a secure grip for comfortable and secure play. The new Gear VR with Controller is compatible with the Galaxy S8, S8+, S7, S7 edge, Note5, S6 edge+, S6 and S6 edge. Customers can also use the controller with previous versions of the Gear VR headset, including the 2016 Samsung Gear VR model which is currently available for $80. Source: SamsungPosted Thu Mar 30, 2017 at 01:30 PM PDT by: -
Netflix Renews 'Santa Clarita Diet' for Second Season[teaser]The horror comedy will be back for seconds next year.[/teaser] Netflix has announced a second season renewal for Santa Clarita Diet. The comedy series comes from writer Victor Fresco (Better Off Ted, Andy Richter Controls the Universe), and stars Drew Barrymore and Timothy Olyphant. In the single-camera series, Joel (Timothy Olyphant, Justified) and Sheila (Drew Barrymore, Blended) are husband and wife realtors leading vaguely discontented lives in the L.A. suburb of Santa Clarita, until Sheila goes through a dramatic change sending both their lives down a road of death and destruction...but in a good way. Check out the season two date announcement video below! The Netflix production is executive produced by Victor Fresco, Drew Barrymore, Timothy Olyphant, Aaron Kaplan, Tracy Katsky, Chris Miller and Ember Truesdell. In addition, Nancy Juvonen is on board as a producer. All ten season one episodes of Santa Clarita Diet are now available through Netflix. Season two is set for release in 2018. Other upcoming Netflix premieres include The Discovery on March 31, 13 Reasons Why on March 31, Girlboss on April 21, Bill Nye Saves the World on April 21, Dear White People on April 28, Casting JonBenet on April 28, Master of None season two on May 12, Anne on May 12, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt season three on May 19, War Machine on May 26, House of Cards season five on May 30, Orange is the New Black season five on June 9, GLOW on June 23, Naked on August 11, 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: Netflix (YouTube)Posted Thu Mar 30, 2017 at 08:15 AM PDT by: -
Microsoft Updates Xbox One Blu-ray Player with Bitstream Audio Support for DTS:X & Dolby Atmos[teaser]Starting next week, the Xbox One will be able to bitstream audio to your receiver for decoding.[/teaser] Microsoft has announced a new update for its Xbox One console. As part of the upgrade, the system's Blu-ray player will be capable of bitstream audio passthrough. With bitstream passthrough for Blu-ray disc audio, the Xbox One will allow a user's connected AV receiver to decode audio natively. This will enable playback for all bitstream audio formats through supported receivers, including newer immersive surround sound formats like DTS:X and Dolby Atmos. DTS:X and Dolby Atmos are object-based audio formats capable of creating overhead sound in a customer's home theater setup. Overhead sound can be added through traditional ceiling mounted speakers or through elevation speaker modules, which bounce sound off of the ceiling in order to simulate effects from above. In order to properly play a DTS:X or Dolby Atmos soundtrack through the Xbox One Blu-ray player bitstream audio feature, customers will need a receiver capable of properly decoding the formats. DTS:X and Dolby Atmos are now supported through a wide-range of AV components and receivers from companies like Yamaha, Pioneer, Onkyo, Denon, Sony, and more. The original Xbox One is currently available in a variety of bundles with prices starting at around $240. In addition, Microsoft has released an updated version of the console, the Xbox One S, which includes HDR capabilities and Ultra HD Blu-ray disc playback. This model is also available in a variety of bundles and storage sizes, with suggested retail prices starting at $300 for 500GB. Xbox One bitstream support will go live later next week. Outside of bitstream support, the new Xbox One update also includes Beam streaming, an updated Xbox experience with a new Guide, home improvements, and more. Source: MicrosoftPosted Wed Mar 29, 2017 at 04:45 PM PDT by: -
Samsung Details Galaxy S8 Smartphone, Release Set for April 21[teaser]The latest Galaxy smartphone will arrive next month.[/teaser] Samsung has officially revealed its new flagship Galaxy S8 smartphone. The new Galaxy S8 and S8+ will be available starting April 21. "The Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8+ usher in a new era of smartphone design and fantastic new services, opening up new ways to experience the world," said DJ Koh, President of Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics. "The Galaxy S8 and S8+ are our testament to regaining your trust by redefining what’s possible in safety and marks a new milestone in Samsung’s smartphone legacy." The Galaxy S8 features a 5.8-inch quad HD screen with a resolution of 2960x1440 and 570ppi, while the Galaxy S8+ features a 6.2-inch quad HD screen with a resolution of 2960x1440 and 529ppi. Both models offer an Infinity Display bezel-less design with Corning Gorilla Glass 5 on the front and back. Under the hood, the phones are powered by an Octa core (2.3GHz Quad + 1.7GHz Quad), 64 bit, 10 nm process or an Octa core (2.35GHz Quad + 1.9GHz Quad), 64 bit, 10 nm processor with 4GB of RAM running Android 7.0. A rear 12MP camera and a front 8MP camera are integrated as well. In addition, the devices have been certified by the UHD Alliance as MOBILE HDR PREMIUM. Likewise, each smartphone comes with new high-performance earphones from AKG by Harman. Finally, Samsung has also integrated its new Bixby intelligent interface into the Galaxy S8. With Bixby, users can navigate through services and apps with simple voice, touch and text commands. Samsung's Galaxy S8 and S8+ will launch on April 21 in Midnight Black, Orchid Gray, Arctic Silver, Coral Blue and Maple Gold. Source: SamsungPosted Wed Mar 29, 2017 at 11:00 AM PDT by: -
Onkyo Preps Two New AV Receivers and Dolby Vision Firmware Update[teaser]Two mid-range immersive audio receiver models have been announced.[/teaser] Onkyo has detailed its latest home theater products. The upcoming TX-NR676 7.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver ($649) and TX-NR575 7.2-Channel A/V Network Receiver ($549) are set for release in May. In addition, the company has also announced plans to release a Dolby Vision firmware update for its 2016 lineup of network 7, 9, and 11-channel devices. The TX-NR676 offers 170 W/Ch (6 Ohms 1kHz, 10% THD, 1 channel drive) or 100 W/Ch (8 Ohms, 20 Hz–20 kHz, 0.08% THD, 2 channels driven, FTC). Meanwhile, the TX-NR575 offers 140 W/Ch (6 Ohms, 1kHz, 10% THD, 1 channel drive) or 80 W/Ch (8 Ohms, 20 Hz–20 kHz, 0.08% THD, 2 channels driven, FTC). Both models feature a 32-bit DSP chipset, high-quality AK4458 384 kHz/32-bit DAC, and proprietary VLSC filtering, along with Dynamic Audio Amplification and proprietary non-phase-shift amp circuitry. Likewise, both receivers include support for Hi-Res Audio formats like DSD 5.6 MHz/2.8 MHz and PCM 192 kHz/24-bit, along with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding. AccuEQ Room Acoustic Calibration with AccuReflex technology for phase-matched sound with Dolby Atmos-enabled elevation speakers is integrated as well. In addition, the TX-NR676 and TX-NR575 offer Chromecast built-in, DTS Play-Fi, FireConnect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity along with access to several music streaming services like Pandora, TIDAL, TuneIn, and Deezer from within the Onkyo Controller. Finally, the units support HDMI pass-through of HDR10 and Dolby Vision, the BT.2020 4K Standard, and 4K/60 Hz video. Outside of the company's new receivers, Onkyo has also announced that it will release a Dolby Vision firmware update for its 2016 network 7, 9 and 11-channel models, ranging from the TX-NR555 to the PR-RZ5100, later this year. Source: OnkyoPosted Wed Mar 29, 2017 at 08:30 AM PDT by: -
Samsung Unveils 34-Foot Cinema Screen HDR 4K LED Display for Movie Theaters[teaser]The LED theater display tech offers an alternative to conventional digital projectors.[/teaser] Samsung has announced its newest display technology, the Cinema Screen. According to the company, the Cinema Screen is set to become the world's first High Dynamic Range LED theater display. "As the popularity of advanced at-home entertainment systems and streaming platforms increases, theaters must reposition themselves as a destination for an incomparable viewing experience that consumers simply cannot encounter anywhere else," said Sang Kim, Vice President of Samsung Electronics America. "Our new Cinema Screen technology brings a more powerful and high-quality picture to the big screen, creating an environment where viewers feel as if they are part of every scene." Designed for use in movie theaters as an alternative to digital projector systems, the Cinema Screen is a 34-foot LED display with a 4K (4,096 x 2,160) resolution. The screen uses direct-lit LED technology and is capable of High Dynamic Range (HDR) at a peak brightness level nearly 10 times greater than standard cinema projectors (146fL versus 14fL). Likewise, the display is said to provide improved uniformity without optical distortion or interference, along with a nearly infinity:1 contrast ratio and highly accurate color, exceeding the DCI specifications. In addition, Samsung’s Audio Lab is teaming up with Harman Professional Solutions' Cinema Group to develop an innovative audio solution for the Cinema Screen. "Harman is excited to continue its collaboration with the Samsung Cinema Screen team and the Samsung Audio Lab. With our expertise in cinema sound systems, we look forward to helping to extend Samsung's leadership in Visual Display solutions into the theater," said Brian Divine, Vice President of Tour and Cinema Solutions Group. Samsung is currently presenting preview demos of the Cinema Screen from March 27-30 at the Cinemark Century Orleans 18 and XD Theatre, located inside The Orleans Hotel & Casino. Source: SamsungPosted Wed Mar 29, 2017 at 07:30 AM PDT by: -
Yamaha Announces RX-V 83 Series AV Receivers with Dolby Vision Support[teaser]Four new AV receiver models have been detailed.[/teaser] Yamaha has revealed the latest additions to its home theater audio product lineup. The upcoming RX-V 83 Series includes the 7.2-channel RX-V683 and RX-V583, and the 5.1-channel RX-V483 and RX-V383. "The Yamaha RX-V 83 Series of AV receivers provide an affordable way in which to achieve the ultimate in movie, music, and gaming experiences," said Bob Goedken, general manager, AV division, Yamaha Corporation of America. "Factor in compelling upgrades such as TIDAL and Deezer streaming services, enhanced MusicCast capabilities and Dolby Vision, and this becomes a very exciting lineup. For entertainment enthusiasts looking for more than a black box, these AV receivers will certainly be the heart of their home entertainment system." The 7.2-channel RX-V683 and RX-V583 models both feature the Enhanced CINEMA DSP sound field program, along with support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersive audio formats. In addition, all four models include 4K Ultra HD at 60p 4:4:4 passthrough with high dynamic range (HDR) and BT.2020 compatibility. Likewise, the units will also add Hybrid Log-Gamma HDR and Dolby Vision support via a future firmware update set for release by the fall of 2017. Likewise, the receivers offer access to several music streaming services like Pandora, Spotify, Napster, and SiriusXM Internet Radio, along with upcoming access to TIDAL and Deezer in May. Finally, the entire lineup includes Bluetooth connectivity, while the RX-V683, RX-V583, and RX-V483 also incorporate Yamaha's MusicCast wireless multiroom audio platform. Here's a rundown of pricing and availability per the press release: - RX-V383 ($299.95) shipping in April - RX-V483 ($449.95) shipping in April - RX-V583 ($549.95) shipping in May - RX-V683 ($649.95) shipping in May Source: YamahaPosted Wed Mar 29, 2017 at 06:30 AM PDT by:
