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WatchESPN Streaming App Heads to PS4 & PS3[teaser]PS4 users can now access the WatchESPN streaming service. [/teaser] Disney and ESPN have announced the launch of WatchESPN support for the PS4. In addition, WatchESPN support will also be added to the PS3 in time for the remainder of the college football season. "WatchESPN on PlayStation 4 strengthens the value of the video subscription by delivering multiplatform accessibility to live and on-demand sports content on yet another streaming device," said Sean Breen, senior vice president, affiliate sales for Disney and ESPN Media Networks. "Gaming consoles have historically attracted significant engagement in minutes consumed for WatchESPN, and with today’s launch, the app increases its distribution footprint to reach fans on the most widely adopted platforms." With WatchESPN, authenticated users with an affiliated television provider can stream live ESPN content from ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, SEC Network, SEC Network +, Longhorn Network, ACC Network Extra and ESPN Goal Line, Buzzer Beater and Bases Loaded. Likewise, the app also offers ESPN Classic on demand content and free access to short form video clips. Beyond the PS4 and PS3, the app also recently added support for Android TV products, including Sony 4K HDR Ultra HD TVs, Sharp Aquos Android TVs, Google Nexus Players, the Nvidia Shield, and the Razer Forge TV. In addition, WatchESPN is available on computers, smartphones, tablets and all major streaming devices. Meanwhile, HBO recently announced plans to launch its own streaming platform, HBO Now, on the PS4 and PS3 as well. HBO Now allows users to watch every episode of every season of HBO’s original programming, hit movies, documentaries, sports and exclusive comedy specials separate from a traditional cable or satellite subscription. The service is available for $15 per month. Source: ESPNPosted Tue Sep 20, 2016 at 02:00 PM PDT by: -
Sony Reveals MP-CL1A Mobile Pico Projector, MSRP Set for $400[teaser]The company's newest pico projector model has been detailed. [/teaser] Sony has announced its latest mobile projector. The MP-CL1A serves as an update to the previously released MP-CL1, offering enhanced features and accessories. "The MP-CL1A not only builds on the success of Sony's first pico projector, but the company's vast expertise in projection technology," said Viviano Cantu, Vice President, Product Marketing, Sony Americas Media and Energy Group. "With connectivity options that now range from Wi-Fi, standard HDMI and MHL to Bluetooth and audio output for wireless and wired headphones and speakers, we're listening to our users to constantly improve our products and add valuable features. That is also why we are offering additional accessories and options that personalize the projector including the choice of a gray or gold model." The MP-CL1A is compact pico projector that uses Laser Beam Scanning (LBS) tech for HD resolution (1920 x 720p) focus free projection with a 80,000:1 contrast ratio and a 16:9 aspect ratio. The device can project a screen size of up to 120 inches at a distance of approximately 12 feet and a 40 inch screen from about 4 feet away. Here's a rundown of key features per the press release: - Compact and super slim (7.4 oz., 5.9 x 3 x 0.5 inches) - 1920 x720 HD resolution (Aspect ratio of 16:9) - Up to 120 inch screen size from approximately 12 feet - High contrast ratio of 80,000:1 - Automatic focus projection from Sony’s Laser Beam Scanning (LBS) - Wi-Fi (with phone or tablet) or HDMI/MHL connectivity (for phone, tablet, laptop and gaming devices) - Bluetooth connection with wireless speakers or wireless headphones - Built-in 3400mAh Li-ion battery for 2 hours of play - Gold or gray color options Sony's MP-CL1A will be available in October for a suggested retail price of $400. Source: SonyPosted Tue Sep 20, 2016 at 11:30 AM PDT by: -
Vimeo Adds Lionsgate Titles to New Digital Video Store[teaser]Several TV shows are heading to Vimeo's on-demand video library. [/teaser] Vimeo has announced a deal to bring Lionsgate TV titles to its new global video store. The service will be available in more than 150 countries around the world. "We're proud to launch Vimeo's first ever transaction-based global television store with Lionsgate's acclaimed television series," said Barry Diller , Chairman and Senior Executive of Vimeo parent company IAC. "Their television slate includes nearly 80 series on 40 different networks, and they are a great partner with whom to kick off a service that will bring premium scripted shows from the U.S. to our hundreds of millions of viewers around the world. They are the first of many top Hollywood studios we expect to attract in the months to come." Vimeo will offer nearly all of Lionsgate's library of TV titles, including current and catalog shows like 'Orange is the New Black,' 'Casual,' 'The Royals,' 'Mad Men,' 'Weeds,' 'Nurse Jackie,' 'Boss,' 'Blue Mountain State,' and 'Manhattan.' Likewise, the studio will also add movie titles to the platform for rental in the US after launch. "Our collaboration with Barry Diller and Vimeo is the latest example of our commitment to partner with world-class platforms to serve online, next generation consumers," said Lionsgate Chief Executive Officer Jon Feltheimer . "We're proud to be the exclusive launch partner of platforms such as Vimeo that are transforming the face of entertainment and bringing our content to consumers around the world through an expanding array of touchpoints." Pricing for rentals has not been announced yet, but the new Vimeo service is scheduled to launch on October 18 at the MIPCOM 2016 Global Market in Cannes. Sources: Vimeo via Yahoo, EngadgetPosted Mon Sep 19, 2016 at 01:45 PM PDT by: -
JVC Announces DLA-RS4500 Native 4K D-ILA Projector[teaser]A new Ultra HD projector has been revealed. [/teaser] JVC has detailed its latest projector model. The DLA-RS4500 uses a native 4K D-ILA device and a laser light source with dynamic light control. The projector offers 4096 x 2160 resolution and supports screen sizes over 200 inches. Likewise, the device uses JVC's proprietary second generation BLU-Escent laser phosphor light engine for a brightness level of 3000 lumens and 20,000 hours of operational life. In addition, the projector includes support for High Dynamic Range through HDR10 and Hybrid Log-Gamma, a new HDR standard for broadcasts and streaming services, and a wide color gamut of 100 percent DCI P3 and over 80 percent coverage of BT.2020. Here's a rundown of other features per the press release: - The DLA-RS4500 is undergoing relentless THX laboratory testing to become the world’s first THX Certified 4K projector. (pending certification) - Two full speed full spec 18Gbps HDMI inputs with HDR and HDCP2.2 -JVC’s Multiple Pixel Control employs a new algorithm optimized for the new 4K device to produce detailed images even when converted from Full HD images. - The DLA-RS4500 features JVC’s original blur reduction technology, Clear Motion Drive, which is compatible with 4K60p (4:4:4), and Motion Enhance, which minimizes motion blur by optimizing the D-ILA driver. These two technologies, working together, result in a smooth and detailed image. - Onboard Screen Modes that optimize color and performance for different screen materials. -Low Latency Mode, which decreases input lags from the source. -Ten preset installation modes that combine settings for Lens Memory, Pixel Adjust, Screen Mask and other parameters to easily tailor settings to each installation. The JVC DLA-RS4500 will be available in December for $34,999.95. Source: JVCPosted Mon Sep 19, 2016 at 01:00 PM PDT by: -
Here Are The Top Six Highlights from CEDIA 2016[teaser]It's been a blur.[/teaser] CEDIA 2016 was notable for a few things, not the least of which was an ever-present sense of overwhelming tech. From my relatively limited traipsing through the world of CEDIA members, I've picked out a few highlights to share with our readers. And let me note here, one of the best things about CEDIA 2016 was the every present nature of Ultra HD Blu-ray. (No booth was complete without a player running a demo.) And of course, with so many audio installations and custom theaters considerations, there were very few who neglected to mention how both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X could either serve or be served by better arrays of gear. Sony UBP-X1000ES At long last, Sony has their first entry into the world of Ultra HD Blu-ray players. But there is catch, this ES model is only for integrators. (It's pictured here adjacent with a Control4 EA Series Controller). Even so, it's a pretty clear view of what we can expect when the consumer version is finally announced. (Access to more thorough settings for one, but not necessarily SACD and DVD-Audio support.) The Ultra HD Blu-ray was just one part of Sony's booth, but, at least for this event, Sony made it clear that HDR is an important focus in the current line, both in the Master Drive TVs and in projectors like the VPL-VW5000ES. KEF Blade Two With good reason, most of the serious audio demonstrations at CEDIA 2016 required at the least a demonstration enclosure, and at the most indulgent, a suite. The KEF Blade Two, however, stood in a pair right in the open middle of the KEF booth. That stereo image, produced by two Blade Twos running off of a Hegel H360 (and networked FLAC tracks), was so poised in the din of the convention center and the booth, I had trouble even thinking of places in homes and well, luxury hotels, that wouldn't be made better with a pair of the large but not intimidating speakers. Naturally, the rest of the booth, which housed gems like the KEF Ci Series, had that kid in a toy store feel. The software the KEF has developed to model an install and illustrate how each piece fits into a room, this is what we need more of. LG Signature OLED77G6P During this past year, if you haven't had the pleasure of meeting the LG Signature OLED65G6P, now might be the time to take the pilgrimage. Not only is the OLED65G6P basically breathe-taking in that undeniable beauty time of way, but the undeniability applies to both the picture and form. And here, in mid-to-late 2016, what could LG do to top this show-stopper? That would be to debut a 77" version. This new model exudes the same lines, but in a greater size more apropos of in-home cinema. The reason I say that now is a good time to make the trek to see the Signature line is that the 77" (and its even bigger $20k price tag) is already ready at certain showrooms in the States. Modulus Media Hub The Modulus Media Hub promises a lot, including DVD and Blu-ray archiving, a wealth of streaming service support, a base 6TB capacity with external expansion, 4K support, remote media access, and a DVR capability that applies to everything (including streaming). But what struck me is that the Modulus has the hardware (apparently) to also host Ultra HD Blu-rays. Unfortunately, that particular capability is not a certainty. Monolith M1060 Planar Headphones Monoprice had a lot to show, and what was there paints an image of Monoprice getting further into the active part of sound. But among the offerings on hand, the Monolith M1060 Planar Headphones seem destined to create a whole new breed of audiophiles. Likewise, the M560 Planar Headphones, which quickly go from a closed design to an open one, could be the next cult-following in headphones. (But you better have some amplification.) Bose Lifestyle 650 At more than one place at the convention, Bose had its most important new product on-hand. That would be the SoundTouch 300. It's one of the new line, a line that now supports HDCP 2.2. But the lovely glasstop of the soundbar hides a few secrets. For one, it uses reflected sound (the PhaseGuide) to present something much wider than its body, and secondly, it supports both an optional Acoustimass 300 wireless bass module and the Virtually Invisible 300 wireless surround speakers. These extra bits can be hardwired if desired, and make the system wonderfully scalable. But where I was drawn to was the Lifestyle 650 and its 6 HDCP 2.2 HDMI ports. The exclusive OmniJewel satellite speakers are like aluminum block dreams with a clean look, and potentially, an even cleaner install. And yet it's in action where the speaker's radical design begins to make sense as the 5.1 system uses 360 degree sound (per speaker) to create a sound field that really has to be experienced to be understood. Some other things that caught my attention but didn't make this list include the Stewart Filmscreen VistaScope T&G, the EarthQuake WiFi Audio Module (and their transducers!), the Integra DRX-R1 11.2/7.2.4 Research Series AVR, the powerful and compact GoldenEar SuperSub X, the HDRless BeoVision, the Middle Atlantic DC Power Distribution (and rack mounts), and the SunBrite TV Signature series.Posted Mon Sep 19, 2016 at 09:30 AM PDT by: -
Netflix Releases Trailer for 'Easy,' Streaming Premiere Set for September 22[teaser]The new anthology series is heading to Netflix later this month. [/teaser] Netflix has released a trailer for its latest original show, 'Easy.' The series is set to premiere on September 22 exclusively through Netflix. 'Easy' is an anthology series from creator Joe Swanberg that explores diverse Chicago characters as they fumble through the modern maze of love, sex, technology and culture. The eight-episode series, written and directed by Swanberg, features Orlando Bloom, Malin Akerman, Jake Johnson, Marc Maron, Dave Franco, Hannibal Buress, Emily Ratajkowski, Michael Chernus, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Aya Cash, Jane Adams, Elizabeth Reaser, Evan Jonigkeit, Aislinn Derbez, Mauricio Ochmann and more. Check out the official trailer below! Creator Joe Swanberg's previous credits include directing duties on 'Drinking Buddies' and 'Happy Christmas.' Other upcoming Netflix premieres include 'Longmire' season five on September 23, 'Luke Cage' on September 30, 'The Ranch' on October 7, 'Justin Timberlake + The Tennessee Kids' on October 12, 'Black Mirror' on October 21, 'The Crown' on November 4, 'True Memoirs of an International Assassin' on November 11, 'Lovesick' on November 17, and 'Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life' on November 25. Likewise, the streaming platform is also prepping new seasons of 'Chelsea,' 'Lady Dynamite,' and 'Real Rob,' a new sci-fi series called 'Travelers' from writer Brad Wright, the second season of 'Stranger Things' for 2017, the third season of 'Bloodline' for 2017, new episodes of the documentary series 'Making a Murderer,' 'Bill Nye Saves the World' for 2017, Marvel's 'The Punisher,' Spike Lee's 'She's Gotta Have It,' and a feature film adaptation of the manga 'Death Note.' A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Mon Sep 19, 2016 at 09:15 AM PDT by: -
Oppo Readies UDP-203 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Player for $499[teaser]The company's first Ultra HD Blu-ray player has been announced. [/teaser] Oppo has unveiled its first Ultra HD Blu-ray player. The UDP-203 is set for release later this year for an MSRP of $499. Though full specs have not been announced yet, photos and tweets from Chris Heinonen, editor of Reference Home Theater, have revealed some details. The player will feature dual HDMI outputs, 7.1 channel analog output, two rear USB 3.0 ports, one front USB 3.0 port, and digital coaxial and optical connections. HDR support is expected but Dolby Vision compatibility has not been confirmed. And unlike some Oppo models, the player will not include Darbee processing. The Oppo Ultra HD Blu-ray player will now join Samsung's previously released UBD-K8500 Ultra HD Blu-ray Player ($399) and Philips' BDP7501 Ultra HD Blu-ray player ($300). Samsung's player features a sleek, curved design and includes HDR and upscaling capabilities. Meanwhile, the Philips player features a compact design and copies of 'Creed' on Ultra HD Blu-ray will be bundled with the player through September 30. In addition, Panasonic is set to release its own DMP-UB900 Ultra HD Blu-ray player later this month for $699. The DMP-UB900 offers playback for Ultra HD Blu-ray discs along with HDR (high dynamic range) and BT.2020 wide color gamut support. The player also features a new 4K High-Precision Chroma Processor which uses "an original high-accuracy multi-tap process to interpolate the decoded 4K (4:2:0) signals of Ultra HD Blu-ray content to 4K (4:4:4)." THX certification, Wi-Fi, DLNA, Full HD Blu-ray 3D disc playback, and support for various apps and video services are included as well. Finally, the player also features twin HDMI & 7.1-channel analogue audio outputs, and high quality audio parts with high-res audio support (including WAV/FLAC/MP3/AAC/WMA formats, DSD and ALAC). Likewise, Sony has announced its upcoming ES Series UBP-X1000E Ultra HD Blu-ray which will be exclusive to the custom installer market. Finally, Microsoft's new Xbox One S ($399) also includes Ultra HD Blu-ray support. Sources: Oppo, CNET, HDTVtestPosted Mon Sep 19, 2016 at 07:00 AM PDT by: -
Epson Details New 3LCD 1080p Home Cinema Projectors, Prices Start at $1,299[teaser]Three new Full HD projector models have been announced. [/teaser] Epson has revealed the latest additions to its Home Cinema projector lineup. The new models include the Home Cinema 3100, Home Cinema 3700, and Home Cinema 3900. "The Home Cinema 3100, 3700 and 3900 are dynamic home theater projectors that deliver a vivid, immersive viewing experience in living rooms, game rooms and more," said Rodrigo Catalan, senior product manager, Projectors, Epson America. "There isn't a big-screen TV that can compete with the size and immersive experience offered by a projected image, and with lens shift, these models are easy to set up and install." The 3LCD projectors offer up to 3,000 lumens of color brightness and 3,000 lumens of white brightness, along with Full HD 1080p resolution and up to a 120,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio. Likewise, each models includes horizontal and vertical lens shift, and support for HDMI plus MHL. Here's a full rundown of key features per the press release: - High Color Brightness and White Brightness: Up to 3,000 lumens of color brightness and 3,000 lumens of white brightness1 for vibrant entertainment, even in well-lit environments - Built-in Color Modes: Multiple color modes ensure the best possible image quality and color - Full HD 1080p, Widescreen 2D/3D performance: Movies, games and more, up to 300 inches - Deep Black Levels: Up to 1200,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio - Frame Interpolation Technology: Motion appears smoother, sharper and more realistic - Captivating Sound: The Home Cinema 3700 adds two built-in 10W stereo speakers deliver lifelike sound for plug-and-play entertainment out of the box, with no need for additional speakers - ISF Calibration Tools: Designed for CEDIA and custom installers, the Home Cinema 3900 meets ISF Certification standards, including specific ISF picture memory modes - Color Brightness Specification: Brilliant Image quality requires high color brightness; Epson projectors utilize 3LCD, 3-chip technology and offer up to 3x higher color brightness than leading competitive projectors, with no possibility of color break-up or "rainbow effect" Epson's Home Cinema 3100 ($1,299) and Home Cinema 3700 ($1,499) are available now through select retailers. Meanwhile, the custom installer-geared Home Cinema 3900 ($1,999) is available through CEDIA and specialty dealers. Source: Epson via PR NewswirePosted Fri Sep 16, 2016 at 12:30 PM PDT by: -
Sony Preps New ES Series AV Receivers with Dolby Atmos & DTS:X[teaser]Four new AV receivers have been detailed. [/teaser] Sony has announced an expansion of its ES series of AV receivers. The new lineup includes the STR-ZA3100ES, STR-ZA2100ES, STR-ZA1100ES, and entry-level STR-ZA810ES. "These new receivers feature our legendary ES build quality and are specifically designed by Sony based on feedback from the CI channel," said Yukio Ishikawa, Director, Home Entertainment & Sound, Sony Electronics. "Their advanced audio and video performance make them the perfect complement to the emerging 4K UHD and HDR platforms and the ideal centerpiece for next generation home entertainment systems." The ES series receivers are designed with custom installers in mind, offering multiple setup options, enhanced compatibility with leading control systems, and intuitive web-based configurability. Likewise, all four models include Sony’s Auto Calibration technology, D.C.A.C. EX with Speaker Relocation, along with support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersive object-based audio formats. In addition, the receivers feature HDCP 2.2 compliancy with 4K 60p (4:4:4) Ultra HD content pass-through from sources like Ultra HD Blu-ray discs and video streaming services in full 4K resolution and High Dynamic Range (HDR). Here's a full rundown of pricing and specs for the new models: - STR-ZA3100ES ($1,699.99), 7 x 110w, 9ch + Phantom 2ch Decode, HDMI (6/2), Dolby Atmos/DTS:X, HDR/HDCP2.2, 8 port switch (2 POE), Pre out, Crestron Connected, Supporting ihiji - STR-ZA2100ES ($1399.99), 7 x 105w, 9ch + Phantom 2ch Decode, HDMI (6/2), Dolby Atmos/DTS:X, HDR/HDCP2.2, 1 Ethernet, Crestron Connected, Supporting ihiji - STR-ZA1100ES ($999.99), 7 x 100w, 7ch + Phantom 2ch Decode, HDMI (5/2), Dolby Atmos/DTS:X, HDR/HDCP2.2, 1 Ethernet, Crestron Connected, Supporting ihiji - STR-ZA810ES ($799.99), 7 x 100w, 7ch + Phantom 2ch Decode, HDMI (6/2), Dolby Atmos/DTS:X, HDR/HDCP2.2, 1 Ethernet The new Sony ES series receivers will be available exclusively to the custom installer market in spring 2017. Source: SonyPosted Fri Sep 16, 2016 at 12:00 PM PDT by: -
CBS All Access Sets Launch Windows for 'The Good Wife' Spinoff & 'Big Brother: Over the Top'[teaser]Release windows have been announced for the new exclusive streaming shows. [/teaser] CBS All Access has announced a February 2017 debut for its new spinoff of 'The Good Wife.' In addition, the streaming service will also premiere its new digital edition of 'Big Brother,' titled 'Big Brother: Over the Top,' on September 28. "We have an amazing inaugural slate of originals for CBS All Access and world-class creative teams behind each of our shows," said Marc DeBevoise, President and Chief Operating Officer, CBS Interactive. "This line-up and release schedule will ensure we deliver the highest quality, premium series that are sure to appeal to both existing subscribers and new audiences alike, throughout the year." As previously reported, the spinoff will pick up one year after the events of the final episode of 'The Good Wife,' and will star Christine Baranski as the beloved "Diane Lockhart," the role which earned her six Emmy Award nominations. Baranski will be joined by Cush Jumbo as "Lucca Quinn," along with several new characters as the story evolves. Robert & Michelle King are on board as co-creators and executive producers along with Phil Alden Robinson ('Field of Dreams'). In addition, Ridley Scott, David Zucker, Liz Glotzer and Brooke Kennedy will also serve as executive producers. The show will be produced by CBS Television Studios in association with Scott Free Productions and King Size Productions. 'The Good Wife' spinoff will launch with a special broadcast premiere on CBS and the move exclusively to CBS All Access streaming. CBS All Access offers next-day streaming for new episodes of many popular shows and a library of over 8,500 on-demand episodes, including content from current programs like 'Limitless' and 'Elementary,' and classic series like 'Star Trek' and 'Cheers.' Likewise, select customers can watch live local CBS broadcasts. The service currently costs $6 per month with commercials and $10 per month without commercials. Supported devices include the Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick with Voice Remote, Roku players, Roku TVs, Apple TV, Chromecast, Xbox 360, and Windows 10, iOS and Android products. Source: CBSPosted Fri Sep 16, 2016 at 11:30 AM PDT by:
