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HDD Gear Deal Spotlight: Up to 78% off Speakers & Media Players![teaser]Amazon is offering big discounts on select media players and speakers! [/teaser] As part of the online retailer's ongoing deals, Amazon is running a special sale on speakers and media/Blu-ray players from NVIDIA, Samsung, Sony, VAVA, Cyber Acoustics, and Anker. Sony HT-XT100 2.1 Channel Sound Base - Currently $110 (78% off). VAVA Voom Portable Bluetooth Speaker - Currently $83 (72% off). Anker Premium Stereo Bluetooth 4.0 Speaker - Currently $50 (58% off). Samsung BD-H6500 3D Blu-ray Player (2014 Model) - Currently $100 (52% off). Samsung BD-J5100 Curved Blu-ray Player (2015 Model) - Currently $45 (44% off). Cyber Acoustics 30 Watt Powered Speakers with Subwoofer - Currently $40 (20% off). NVIDIA SHIELD Pro 4K Streaming Media with Gaming - Currently $250 (17% 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 Fri Apr 15, 2016 at 05:45 PM PDT by: -
Netflix Reveals Showrunners for Marvel's 'The Defenders'[teaser]The superhero team-up series now has its showrunners in place. [/teaser] Following their work on season two of 'Daredevil,' Netflix has named Douglas Petrie ('Buffy the Vampire Slayer') and Marco Ramirez ('Orange is the New Black') as the showrunners for their upcoming original series, 'The Defenders.' "Doug and Marco captivated our members around the world with their continuation of the story of Matt Murdock in 'Marvel’s Daredevil,' and we can't wait to see how they and Drew will introduce the full Defenders team to our global audience," said Cindy Holland, Netflix Vice President of Original Content. 'Marvel's The Defenders' will feature a crossover team-up between Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, and Iron Fist as they face their biggest threat yet. The series will star Charlie Cox, Krysten Ritter, Mike Colter, and Finn Jones, all reprising their roles from their individual shows. Douglas Petrie, Marco Ramirez, Drew Goddard ('The Martian,' 'Lost,' 'Alias'), and Jeph Loeb will all serve as Executive Producers for the mini-series. The show is being produced by Marvel Television in association with ABC Studios for Netflix. "We're incredibly excited to be able to bring our four street level heroes together in an epic tale woven by Doug and Marco whose work on 'Marvel's Daredevil' speaks for itself" said Executive Producer/Head of Marvel Television, Jeph Loeb, "they write and produce not only great action and adventure, but also the heart and touch of humor that's makes us Marvel. With the inclusion of Drew Goddard, we've got a team that's as formidable as the Defenders themselves." "This is the big one. Four amazing casts, four amazing series, now all in one amazing story," said Showrunners and Executive Producers Douglas Petrie and Marco Ramirez. "We are thrilled at the opportunity to deliver the show that both we and the fans have been waiting for." A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Fri Apr 15, 2016 at 05:20 PM PDT by: -
'The Jungle Book' in Dolby Vision & Dolby Atmos; More Titles Coming[teaser]Last night we caught an advanced screening of Disney's 'The Jungle Book' at the historic El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, California.[/teaser] The film -- which follows other classic Disney animation reboots like 'Maleficent' and 'Cinderella' -- opens Friday, and has been graded for Dolby Vision high dynamic range and mixed in the ultra immersive Dolby Atmos sound format. Dolby Atmos debuted theatrically four years ago on Disney/Pixar's 'Brave', and is now in 1,600 cinemas in more that 60 countries (to find one in your area, click HERE). More recently, Dolby Atmos expanded into the home cinema ecosystem where it remains a favorite sound mixing option for Hollywood filmmakers as well as audio geeks like me. Here are some upcoming films you'll soon be able to experience in Dolby Atmos: Hunt for the Wilderpeople, June 26, 2016The Secret Life of Pets, July 8, 2016Ghostbusters, July 15, 2016Ice Age: Collision Course, July 22, 2016Suicide Squad, August 5, 2016LAIKA’s Kubo and the Two Strings, August 19, 2016Inferno, October 28, 2016Passengers, December 21, 2016Monster Trucks, January 13, 2017The LEGO® Batman Movie, February 10, 2017Baby Driver, March 17, 2017Spider-Man, July 7, 2017 Dolby Vision is a newer technology that incorporates high dynamic range grading as well as support for the Rec 2020 color gamut (though most films are still graded to DCI P3). In theatrical implementations, Dolby and Christie built a proprietary dual-4K laser projection system capable of projection at 31fL of peak luminescence in 2D (double standard digital cinemas), and 14fL in 3D (two-to-three times standard 3D cinemas). All with a million-to-one contrast ratio. In 2016, thanks to partnerships with companies like VIZIO and LG, Dolby Vision content is available on Netflix and VUDU streaming services, and should become available on Ultra HD Blu-rays. When Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos are combined in one auditorium, the result is Dolby Cinema (I'm simplifying a little; for more info, read THIS). AMC Theatres currently has 15 Dolby Cinema auditoriums running in the US with four more "coming soon." Dubbed Dolby Cinema at AMC Prime, these theatres not only feature exceptional picture and sound, but also have uber-comfy leather recliners. Here are some upcoming titles you can expect to see in Dolby Cinema locations (with Dolby Vision & Dolby Atmos): Hardcore Harry, Out NowThe Jungle Book, April 15, 2015Captain America: Civil War, May 6, 2016Alice Through the Looking Glass, May 27, 2016X-Men: Apocalypse, May 27, 2016Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows, June 3, 2016Warcraft, June 10, 2016Finding Dory, June 17, 2016Independence Day: Resurgence, June 24, 2016The Legend of Tarzan, July 1, 2016Star Trek Beyond, July 22, 2016Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, October 21, 2016Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk, November 11, 2016Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, November 18, 2016Wonder Woman, June 2017 'The Jungle Book' Wow. Just wow. I've been hearing good things over the last few weeks, but Disney's 'The Jungle Book', directed by Jon Favreau and written by Justin Marks, is the real deal, a family adventure movie that builds on its Disney heritage, while staking its own sense of tone and building out an animated universe in a mostly photo-realistic way (I'd say the VFX are like 90-95% on point). I'll leave the full review to Phil over at The Bonus View, but for me, this flick excels on all levels -- story, emotions, characters, visuals, sound -- and is easily the best of these Disney animation-to-live-action reboots. Of course, "live action" is a bit of a stretch as the film was shot mostly indoors much like 'Avatar' and 'Life of Pi'. Still, this movie really worked for me, Funny. Epic. Musical numbers. Edge-of-your-seat action. Jokes for kids and adults. Even pretty intense scares at times (careful with the littlest little ones). If you enjoy Disney movies or adventure stories, 'The Jungle Book' is a great family adventure, exuding fun in almost every frame (even the closing credits). Watch video! // Dolby Vision 3D Good news / bad news. With 14fL of peak brightness, Dolby Vision 3D is the clearest, sharpest, richest version of 3D available today. One problem: most Dolby Cinemas currently operating in the US only play Dolby Vision content in two dimensions, leaving one place to experience 'The Jungle Book' in Dolby Vision 3D: the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, CA. If you live in Los Angeles, run-don't-walk to see this movie there. If not, let's try to break down the film's visual components in a way that might help you figure out where to see this film. First, the 3D is gobsmacking. I know we have a number of readers who love the format, and they're going to be in heaven. Right up there with 'Life of Pi', 'Gravity', and 'Avatar', 'The Jungle Book' offers exceptional depth into the film's universe. Jungles and plains stretch on forever, while caves close in around you, making you feel as though you are there with the characters. There are a few pop-out moments too, but most of the film's presentation is about that window into another world. Sitting in my seat, I couldn't believe that most of what I was seeing was dreamed up in a computer. On the nitpicky side of things, there are a few moments where Mowgli is a little cardboard-flat when compared to his CGI surroundings. But overall, this is excellent 3D. If you don't live near a Dolby Cinema location and/or if you love 3D, definitely check out this version of the movie because who knows if Disney will bring this to Blu-ray 3D. Next, lets chat about the Dolby Vision high dynamic range grading. Granted, I've yet to see the SDR grading, so I can't specifically say what's improved, but I can say 'The Jungle Book' has been rendered lovingly and beautifully. 3D aside, what struck me was the variety of jungle environments. Boiling desert plains, muddy ravines, dense jungles, and everything in between. Each one offered oodles of contrast and dynamic range, with nothing peaking or blowing out. But the showstopping visuals come during any nighttime sequences that involve a roaring fire. Sparks and embers and flames glow a menacing red next to inky blacks and visible shadow details. I definitely need to go see this in 2D Dolby Vision to compare, but I think it's safe to say audiences are going to be wowed in the coming weeks. Dolby Atmos This sound mix breaks my heart. Why? Because even though Disney has been a huge proponent of Dolby Atmos in commercial cinemas, the studio has not announced support for the format on physical media or OTT digital. Which brings us to the artistic tragedy of the week: 'The Jungle Book' is must-experience Dolby Atmos. Right up there with 'Dawn of the Planet of the Apes', 'Life of Pi', 'Gravity', and 'Mad Mad Fury Road', 'The Jungle Book' Dolby Atmos mix lifts up already-luscious visuals with an engrossing, world-building sound design. To put it bluntly, gone were the ornate walls of the El Capitan; instead the audience and I were in the jungle, immersed in the blowing trees and buzzing insects and flowing streams. Every animal voice, call, or growl resonated with depth and power. Rain poured down from overhead. Diving into rivers submerged us with the characters. And that doesn't even include individual object panning. Listen carefully for the eagles (hawks maybe?) who screech overhead. Close your eyes when Scarlet Johansson's velvet voice (as Kaa) lulls Mowgli into a trance by swirling around the audience. 'The Jungle Book' in Dolby Atmos is an audiophile's dream come true. Don't miss it; especially since we have very little evidence to suspect we'll get to experience this mix in our homes. (I was saying Boo-urns.) Final Thoughts Disney's latest live action reboot is a grand cinematic adventure worth seeing on the biggest screen possible at your favorite cinema. In Dolby Vision 3D, 'The Jungle Book' offers deeply immersive visuals in the same league as 'Avatar', 'Life of Pi', and 'Gravity'. The Dolby Atmos sound mix is equally a stunner, wrapping audiences in layered jungle atmospherics while placing pin-point object sounds overhead and all around. If you live in the Los Angles area, I highly recommend a trip to the El Capitan on Hollywood Boulevard to experience Dolby Vision in 3D and Dolby Atmos. If that's not possible, check to see if there's a Dolby Cinema at AMC Prime location near you (reminder: these will be 2D only). Locations are listed HERE. Since those are quite rare, search HERE for Dolby Atmos equipped auditoriums. Disney has yet to deliver a single movie to home video above a 7.1 mix, so this may be your only chance to experience this stunning sound design. What about you, Dear Reader? Assuming you're interested in seeing the movie, how will you be experiencing 'The Jungle Book'?Posted Fri Apr 15, 2016 at 12:15 PM PDT by: -
UHD Alliance Announces Ultra HD Premium Logo & Certification Licensing for Ultra HD Blu-ray Players[teaser]The Ultra HD Premium logo and classification system has been expanded to Ultra HD Blu-ray players. [/teaser] The UHD Alliance (UHDA) has announced an expansion of its Ultra HD Premium certification licensing to include Ultra HD Blu-ray disc players. The Ultra HD Premium logo allows consumers to easily identify televisions, content, content services, and playback devices that meet the requirements for a premium Ultra HD experience. "As the Ultra HD ecosystem continues to grow, the UHDA will continue to expand the breadth of ULTRA HD PREMIUM certified products and services to provide consumers with a single, identifying mark to seek out so they can purchase with confidence," said UHD Alliance President Hanno Basse. "The certification of Ultra HD Blu-ray players is a natural first expansion, because the Ultra HD Blu-ray format was built with premium performance in mind and a growing number of 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc titles released by Hollywood also bear the ULTRA HD PREMIUM logo." Developed through a collaboration with leading film studios, consumer electronics manufacturers, content distributors, and technology companies, the Ultra HD Premium spec requires certified products to satisfy specific performance metrics for resolution, high dynamic range (HDR), peak luminance, black levels, wide color gamut, and more. Likewise, the specification also includes recommendations for immersive audio. Though exact testing criteria for Ultra HD Blu-ray players has not been detailed, the UHDA has designated multiple, independent centers around the globe to conduct testing. Currently, the only Ultra HD Blu-ray player on the market is the Samsung UBD-K8500 Ultra HD Blu-ray Player. Models from Panasonic and Philips are expected to arrive later this year. Beyond Ultra HD Blu-ray players, the UHDA has already certified 30 Ultra HD TVs with the Ultra HD Premium designation. Likewise, the company is also planning to develop a premium standard for live 4K Ultra HD broadcasts. Source: UHD AlliancePosted Thu Apr 14, 2016 at 01:30 PM PDT by: -
Pioneer Unveils SW-10 Powered Subwoofer, Available Now for $349[teaser]A new subwoofer model is now available for purchase. [/teaser] Pioneer has announced details for their latest home audio product. The SW-10 Powered Subwoofer is designed to create deep and powerful room filling bass. The SW-10 is a powered subwoofer with a 10 inch long throw down firing driver encased in a vented and stylish enclosure to improve transient response. The unit features a dedicated BASH high voltage amplifier delivering 200 Watts RMS of pure power. Frequency range is rated for 30 Hz – 150 Hz with a maximum output power of 400W at its peak. In addition, the subwoofer includes controls for phase and crossover adjustment. Finally, the SW-10 uses a wide rubber surround rather than a more cost effective foam surround, allowing for superior excursion of the cone and a greater bass response in a smaller cabinet. Likewise, rubber won't degrade like foam over time, letting the bass driver remain consistent for a longer period. Pioneer's SW-10 Powered Subwoofer is now available for a suggested list price of $349. The subwoofer joins the company's previously released award winning lineup of speakers, including the SP-FS52 Floor-standing Loudspeaker (currently $127), SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf Loudspeakers (pair, currently $127), SP-C22 Center-Channel Speaker (currently $97), and the SW-8MK2 Powered Sub (currently $157). Likewise, the company also offers the SP-T22A-LR Add-on Atmos Speakers (pair, currently $199) and the SP-BS22A-LR Dolby Atmos Bookshelf Speakers (pair, currently $210). Beyond the new subwoofer, Pioneer also recently launched the LX301 ($700) & LX101 ($500) Elite Network Receivers. Both receivers are 7.2 channel models with 4K HDCP 2.2 compliant playback, integrated Dolby Atmos support, and future DTS:X support via an upcoming firmware upgrade. Source: PioneerPosted Thu Apr 14, 2016 at 12:00 PM PDT by: -
Netflix Debuts Teaser for 'Voltron: Legendary Defender,' Premiere Set for June 10[teaser]A new version of the classic cartoon is heading to Netflix in June. [/teaser] Netflix has released the first teaser for its new animated series, 'Voltron: Legendary Defender.' Developed by DreamWorks Animation, the show will premiere through Netflix on June 10. From days long ago, from uncharted regions of the universe, comes Netflix Original Series 'Voltron: Legendary Defender.' DreamWorks Animation reimagines one of the most popular fan-favorite shows of all time in this all-new comedic action-packed show from executive producer Joaquim Dos Santos (The Legend of Korra, Avatar: The Last Airbender) and co-executive producer Lauren Montgomery (The Legend of Korra). In this all-new Voltron series coming to Netflix this year, five unsuspecting teenagers are transported from Earth into the middle of a sprawling intergalactic war and become pilots for five robotic lions in the battle to protect the universe from evil. Only through the true power of teamwork can they unite to form the mighty warrior known as 'Voltron: Legendary Defender.' Check out the teaser trailer below! 'Voltron: Legendary Defender' stars Steven Yeun, Jeremy Shada, and Tyler Labine. The first season will consist of 13 episodes. Beyond 'Voltron,' Netflix and DreamWorks Animation are also teaming up to debut several additional original series throughout 2016, including 'Home: Adventures with Tip & Oh,' and 'Trollhunters' from Guillermo del Toro. Other upcoming Netflix premieres include 'Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt' season two on April 15, 'Patton Oswalt: Talking For Clapping' on April 22, 'Special Correspondents' on April 29, 'Marseille' on May 5, the second season of 'Grace and Frankie' on May 6, 'Chelsea' on May 11, season two of 'Chef's Table' on May 27, 'Bloodline' season two on May 27, 'The Do-Over' on May 27, 'The Fundamentals of Caring' on June 24, 'Marco Polo' season two on July 1, the documentary 'Tony Robbins: I Am Not Your Guru' on July 15, 'Project Mc2' season two on August 12, and 'The Crown' on November 4. A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Wed Apr 13, 2016 at 01:00 PM PDT by: -
Sling TV Adds Live Beta Multi-Stream Service for $20 Per Month[teaser]The internet TV service now offers a multi-stream plan. [/teaser] Sling TV has announced the launch of a live beta multi-stream service. The plan costs $20 per month and features live and on demand content from several networks including Fox, along with streaming support for up to three devices simultaneously in or outside the home. "Since launch, our customers have asked for more channels and multiple streams. We believe our new multi-stream service, anchored by a strong lineup of Fox content, including top franchises like 'Empire' and 'The Americans' on FOX and FX, as well as access to Major League Baseball in 15 markets, including the New York Yankees, is the first step in answering their requests," said Roger Lynch, CEO of Sling TV. "We look forward to incorporating our customers' feedback throughout the beta phase as we evolve the multi-stream service to include additional channels, features and functionality." As part of the base "Best of Live TV" package users will gain multi-stream access to live and on demand content from FOX Broadcasting, FOX Sports, FX, National Geographic and other popular networks like A&E, Adult Swim, AMC, Bloomberg, Cartoon Network, CNN, El Rey, Flama, Food Network, Galavision, HGTV, History, IFC, Lifetime, Local NOW, Maker, Newsy, Polaris+, TBS, TNT, Travel Channel, truTV, UniMás, Univision and VICELAND. In addition, customers can add "Extras" to their monthly plan, including "Hollywood Extra," "Lifestyle Extra" and "World News Extra" packages for $5 more per month each, HBO for $15 more per month, and Cinemax for $10 more per month. New customers can sign up for a seven day free trial of Sling TV's multi-stream service with no annual contract or long-term commitment at www.sling.com. Likewise, Sling TV's single-stream service, which includes content from Disney and ESPN Networks, can still be purchased with or without the new multi-stream service for $20 per month. The Sling TV platform is now available on Roku players, Roku TVs, the Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, PCs, Macs, Xbox One, Android and iOS devices, and more. Source: Sling TV via BusinessWirePosted Wed Apr 13, 2016 at 11:45 AM PDT by: -
Samsung Details HW-K950 & HW-K850 Dolby Atmos Soundbars, Prices Start at $999[teaser]Two new Dolby Atmos soundbar models have been detailed. [/teaser] Samsung has announced pricing for its latest soundbar models. The upcoming HW-K950 and HW-K850 both feature support for Dolby Atmos immersive audio technology. "We are thrilled to bring consumers an unmatched, immersive sound experience with our first Dolby Atmos equipped soundbars," said Jim Kiczek, Vice President, Samsung Electronics America Audio Group. "The HW-K950 and HW-K850 provide a next-generation home entertainment audio experience by truly coming alive to surround consumers with rich, deep, and powerful 3D sound and are the ideal systems to complement our line of televisions." The HW-K950 features support for 5.1.4 channel sound with two additional rear wireless speakers and a wireless subwoofer. The sleek soundbar unit is just 2.1 inches high and uses three forward facing speakers and two upwards facing speakers to produce ear level and overhead sound. Likewise, the wireless rear speakers also include Dolby Atmos enabled upward drivers to bounce sound off of the ceiling. Meanwhile, the HW-K850 soundbar offers 3.1.2 channel sound with three forward facing channels, two upward facing channels, and a separate wireless subwoofer. Samsung's HW-K950 ($1,499) and HW-K850 ($999) are expected to start shipping in the US this summer. Beyond Samsung, Yamaha, Philips, and Creative Technology all have their own Dolby Atmos soundbar models as well. In addition to their new Dolby Atmos audio products, Samsung also recently announced pricing and availability for its 2016 SUHD TV lineup. The lineup will be available in five series -- the KS8000, KS8500, KS9000, KS9500, and KS9800 -- with sizes ranging from 49 inches to 88 inches and prices ranging from $1,799 to $19,999. Source: Samsung UPDATE 4/14/16: this article was revised to correct the price of the HW-K850.Posted Tue Apr 12, 2016 at 03:00 PM PDT by: -
Samsung Announces Pricing for 2016 4K SUHD TV Lineup, Models Start at 1,499[teaser]The company's full 2016 4K TV line has been detailed. [/teaser] Samsung has announced pricing and availability for its 2016 4K SUHD TV collection. The lineup will be available in five series -- the KS8000, KS8500, KS9000, KS9500, and KS9800 -- with sizes ranging from 49 inches to 88 inches. "Samsung has always been about the ultimate experience in Picture Quality. This year is no different. Our new SUHD models provide the brightest, most realistic color and clarity for every viewing environment," said Dave Das, Senior Vice President, Samsung Electronics America. "What is new this year is our redefined Smart TV experience. We listened to our customers and made enjoying content the easiest it’s ever been." The flagship KS9800 series features a cadmium free 10 bit Quantum Dot Display with 1,000-nit HDR and support for up to one billion colors in detail. A 65 inch model ($4,499) and an 88 inch model ($19,999) are expected to arrive in early June. Likewise a 78 inch model ($9,999) will be available in early May. Next up, the KS9500 series features the world's first bezel-less curved design. The display uses Quantum Dot Color tech, Supreme UHD Dimming, Supreme Motion Rate 240, and HDR1000 support. The KS9500 is available now in a 55 inch model ($2,499) and a 65 inch model ($3,699). Likewise, a 78 inch model ($7,999) will be available in early June. Meanwhile, for customers who aren't quite ready for curves, Samsung is also offering the flat screen KS900 series. A 55 inch model ($2,299) and a 65 inch model ($3,499) are now available. Likewise, a 75 inch model ($6,499) will be available in early June. Also joining the 2016 lineup is the KS8500 series. The curved screen displays feature Quantum Dot Color tech, HDR1000 High Dynamic Range support, and Samsung's Peak Illuminator Pro. The KS8500 series is now available in a 55 inch model ($1,999) and 65 inch model ($2,999). In addition, a 49 inch model ($1,699) will be available in May. Finally, the flat screen KS8000 series is also now available in a 55 inch model ($1, 799) and a 65 inch model ($2,799). In addition, a 49 inch model ($1,499) and a 60 inch model ($2,299) will be available in May. Source: SamsungPosted Tue Apr 12, 2016 at 02:00 PM PDT by: -
Yamaha Readies WXA-50 Amplifier & WXC-50 Preamplifier with MusicCast Wireless Streaming[teaser]Two new MusicCast capable products have been detailed. [/teaser] Yamaha has announced the latest additions to its home audio lineup. The WXA-50 Amplifier & WXC-50 Preamplifier are designed to enhance existing speakers and home audio equipment with MusicCast streaming support. "Yamaha fully appreciates that many of our customers already have speakers, AV receivers and Hi-Fi equipment that they love, yet they want to enhance their overall wireless audio listening experience," said Bob Goedken, general manager, AV division, Yamaha Corporation of America. "The WXA-50 and WXC-50 not only allow them to seamlessly and effortlessly integrate their legacy equipment with our popular MusicCast system, but also with superior sonic fidelity that will bring them hours of music listening enjoyment." The WXA-50 amplifier allows users to connect a pair of their existing speakers to the stereo amp, enabling MusicCast support through an existing Wi-Fi network to access a customer's music library, Pandora, Spotify, Rhapsody and more directly from the MusicCast app. The amplifier works with any pair of traditional wired speakers, and can be used in conjunction with other MusicCast wireless speakers, sound bars, and receivers for wireless multiroom audio playback. Meanwhile, the WXC-50 preamplifier works with existing home theater or Hi-Fi systems, letting customers connect the WXC-50 to an AV receiver or stereo amplifier to add streaming audio capabilities and wireless multiroom playback when used with other MusicCast products. Both devices support playback from Internet radio stations, music files on smart devices and computers, Bluetooth devices, and external sources like TVs, DVDs, Blu-ray Discs, CDs and even vinyl. Likewise, the amp and preamp support playback for several high-resolution audio formats, including Apple Lossless (ALAC) files up to 96 kHz / 24-bit, FLAC, AIFF and WAV files up to 192 kHz / 24-bit, and single-device playback of DSD streams up to 5.6 MHz. Finally, both models also feature the same ESS Technology digital-to-analog converter (DAC) used in high-end Yamaha AV receivers, along with Yamaha proprietary sound processing technologies like a Compressed Music Enhancer, Volume Adaptive EQ, and Advanced Bass Extension Processing. The Yamaha WXA-50 Amplifier ($499) & WXC-50 Preamplifier ($349) will be available in August.Posted Tue Apr 12, 2016 at 09:15 AM PDT by: