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Denon Readies Affordable S-Series AV Receivers with Dolby Atmos & DTS:X, Prices Start at $479[teaser]Two new AV receivers have been revealed. [/teaser] Denon has announced the latest additions to its S-Series home audio lineup. The new AVR-S720W and AVR-S920W will serve as the successors to the previously released AVR-S710W and AVR-S910W. The AVR-S720W is a 7.2 channel receiver with 165W maximum power output per channel (6ohm, 1kHz, 1ch driven), 75W (8ohm, 20Hz-20kHz,THD:0.08%) Power Amp. Meanwhile, the AVR-S920W is a 7.2 channel receiver with 185W maximum power output per channel (6ohm, 1kHz, 1ch driven), 90W(8ohm, 20Hz-20kHz,THD:0.08%) Power Amp. Both models include integrated support for Dolby Atmos and future support for DTS:X via an upcoming firmware update expected in August. Likewise, both receivers offer dual band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, along with 4K Ultra HD full rate pass through via HDMI 2.0a and HDCP 2.2 compliant connections with support for 4K 60Hz video, 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling, High Dynamic Range (HDR), 21:9 video, 3D, and BT.2020 pass through HDR (High Dynamic Range). In addition, the AVR-S720W and AVR-S920W also include high resolution DSD (2.8/5.6MHz), FLAC, ALAC, AIFF, and WAV audio playback. Other key features include Audyssey MultEQ setup with MIC stand included in the box; AirPlay, Internet Radio, Pandora, Spotify Connect, SiriusXM, and DLNA 1.5; AM/FM Radio; and the Denon 2016 AVR Remote app for iOS, Android and Kindle Fire. Finally, the AVR-S920W model includes eight HDMI 2.0a inputs (two more than the AVR-S720W), while also adding a dual HDMI output and advanced Video Processing with 4K upscaling. The Denon AVR-S720W ($479) and AVR-S920W ($579) will be available later this month. And for customers looking for Denon models with current DTS:X support, the company recently released the DTS:X firmware update for its 9.2 channel AVR-X7200WA ($2,999), 9.2 channel AVR-X7200W ($2,349), 7.2 channel AVRX4200W ($1,299), and 9.2 channel AVRX6200W ($2,199). Likewise, support is expected to arrive for the AVR-S710W, AVR-S910W, AVR-X1200W, AVR-X2200W, and AVR-X3200W later this year Source: DenonPosted Wed Apr 6, 2016 at 11:15 AM PDT by: -
Netflix Reveals Trailer for 'Grace and Frankie' Season Two Starring Jane Fonda & Lily Tomlin[teaser]The second season of the comedy series will start streaming in May. [/teaser] Netflix has released a trailer for season two of its original show, 'Grace and Frankie.' The entire second season will premiere exclusively through Netflix on May 6. "Let me say, it's so awesome to do a show on Netflix," said Marta Kauffman, series co-creator and executive producer, "because two and a half weeks after we launched, Miley Cyrus does a tweet about your show, and they call and say, 'We'd like to do a season two.' So yes, there is a season two. We have Ted and Miley to thank." In Grace and Frankie, Jane Fonda (Grace) and Lily Tomlin (Frankie) star as two women whose lives are suddenly turned upside down when their husbands reveal they are gay and leave them for each other. Both sparring partners and partners-in-crime, they form an unlikely bond to face an uncertain future together and discover a new definition of family, with laughter, tears and plenty of mood enhancers along the way. Check out the trailer below! The show also stars Martin Sheen, Sam Waterston, Brooklyn Decker, Ethan Embry, Baron Vaughn, and June Diane Raphael. Executive producers for the series include Marta Kauffman, Howard Morris, Paula Weinstein, David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, Marcy Ross, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. The show's first season originally premiered on May 8, 2015 and all 13 season one episodes are now available to stream on Netflix. Other upcoming Netflix premieres include 'Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt' season two on April 15, 'Special Correspondents' on April 29, 'Marseille' on May 5, 'Chelsea' on May 11, season two of 'Chef's Table' on May 27, 'The Do-Over' on May 27, the documentary 'Tony Robbins: I Am Not Your Guru' on July 15, and 'Home: Adventures with Tip & Oh' on July 29. A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Wed Apr 6, 2016 at 10:45 AM PDT by: -
Klipsch Announces Limited Edition 70th Anniversary Heresy & Klipschorn Heritage Series Speakers[teaser]Two Heritage Series speakers will be available in limited runs. [/teaser] To celebrate its 70th anniversary, Klipsch is releasing limited edition models of its Klipschorn and Heresy Heritage series speakers. Both models features design enhancements, exotic wood veneer finishes, special edition logos, and unique grille cloths. The Klipschorn speaker was first developed in 1946 and is the only speaker model in the world to remain in continuous production for over 70 years. The speaker features a newly enhanced rear low frequency horn that is now fully enclosed, along with a new nameplate celebrating its legendary history, and a small plaque identifying the unit's numbered sequence in the series. In addition, the Klipschorn uses a retro style silver luster grille cloth to complement the speaker's exotic Australian Walnut wood veneer. Finally, each pair is grain matched using wood veneer panels from the same timber, offering a speaker pair that is indistinguishable from the other. A total of 70 handcrafted pairs of the Klipschorn will be produced for the limited edition 70th Anniversary run. The speakers will retail for $16,000 per pair and will be available at authorized retailers and at Klipsch.com in May 2016. Meanwhile, the Heresy speaker was originally released in 1957, and was designed to serve as a compact center channel speaker to be used with the Klipschorn in three speaker stereo setups. For its current third generation model, the Heresy was upgraded with a more powerful woofer, bi-wire network, and midrange and tweeter compression drivers with a titanium diaphragm. A new nameplate honoring the speaker's history, a small plaque listing the unit's sequence number, the craftsman's signature, and a retro style silver luster grille cloth are featured as well, along with a new matte black slant riser base to complement the speaker's exotic Australian Walnut wood veneer enclosure. Like the Klipschorn, a total of 70 handcrafted pairs of the Heresy have been produced and grain matched using wood veneer panels from the same timber, offering speaker pairs that are indistinguishable from the other. The speakers are now available for $3,200 per pair. Source: KlipschPosted Tue Apr 5, 2016 at 03:45 PM PDT by: -
STARZ Launches Subscription Streaming Service, Price Set for $9 per Month[teaser]The premium cable channel is now the latest network to offer a cord-cutting option. [/teaser] STARZ has announced the launch of its own standalone streaming platform. The new STARZ digital retail service costs $9 per month and offers both online streaming and download support for offline viewing. "Starz has entered the market today with an enormous value proposition for consumers. Our programing will now be more widely available to the 20 million broadband only homes of cord nevers, cord cutters and cord shavers, including Millennials and other underserved consumers who need other viable subscription service options," Starz CEO Chris Albrecht said. "With the growing consumer appetite for our highly-rated, award–winning and diverse original programing and vast library of movies, our elegant and powerful app is the first in the industry to allow download capability to watch premium content anytime, anywhere, without the need for Wi-Fi access. Showcasing the rebranded STARZ offerings we announced last month, we believe this innovative app will also help fortify the broadband business of many of our traditional distributors and be even more appealing for inclusion in future video bundles." The STARZ standalone streaming app provides access to more than 2,400 titles each month, including STARZ original series like 'Outlander,' 'Power,' and the upcoming 'American Gods,' as well as popular movies including 'Avengers: Age of Ultron' and, later this year, 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens.' The service lets up to four users watch content simultaneously along with support for virtually unlimited downloads. STARZ is now available through the App Store for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Apple TV. Likewise, STARZ is also available through the Google Play Store for numerous Android supported devices. Customers can now subscribe to the STARZ digital service in-app from their supported devices or through PCs and MACs. Likewise, current STARZ cable and satellite subscribers can also use the app by authenticating their memberships. Finally, to celebrate the new app, STARZ will be debuting the second installment premiere episode of 'Outlander' on April 7 for streaming and download in advance of its official premiere on STARZ on April 9. Source: STARZ via BusinessWirePosted Tue Apr 5, 2016 at 12:00 PM PDT by: -
Roku Details New Streaming Stick with Quad-Core Processor, MSRP Set at $50[teaser]The new streaming stick features upgraded performance and features. [/teaser] Roku has announced a new version of its popular streaming stick. The updated Roku Streaming Stick now has more processing power than any other pocket sized streaming player on the market. "The Roku Streaming Stick is one of our most popular models. Consumers appreciate having access to the complete Roku streaming experience in a portable, low-‐cost device," said Sharad Sundaresan, SVP product management for Roku. "The new Roku Streaming Stick takes our popular experience to the next level with a significant upgrade in power and performance, as well as features that are specifically designed to get people to the entertainment they want to watch quickly and easily whether they’re at home or on the go." The new Roku Streaming Stick features a compact, sleek design that is smaller and 8x more powerful than the previous version. Under the hood, the device is run by a quad core processor, giving it more processing power than the competing Amazon Fire TV and Google Chromecast. In addition, the device runs the latest Roku OS 7.1, providing access to over 3,000 streaming channels, including 300,000 movies and TV episodes, along with a universal search option. Likewise, the updated operating system adds new categories within Roku Feed allowing customers to discover popular TV shows and movies in one place. The media dongle also offers a private listening option through wired or wireless headphones via a mobile phone or tablet when using the Roku Mobile App for iOS and Android devices. Additional features include Dual-band MIMO wireless; a remote for easy navigation and control; video casting support from Netflix and YouTube mobile apps; remote control support from the Roku Mobile App for iOS and Android; and Hotel and Dorm Connect for easy connection to wireless networks away from home. Roku's latest Streaming Stick is now available for pre-order for $50. The device is expected to hit stores later this month. Source: RokuPosted Tue Apr 5, 2016 at 06:00 AM PDT by: -
Samsung Adds WebVR Internet Browsing Support to Gear VR Headset[teaser]The company's virtual reality headset now offers experimental support for WebVR. [/teaser] Samsung has announced the addition of WebVR support to its Samsung Internet for GearVR 1.0 internet browser on the Gear VR headset. With that said, the WebVR spec has not been finalized yet, so current support is listed as experimental. Once activated within a user's Gear VR browser, WebVR integration allows Gear VR customers to view supported virtual reality content and videos directly through their internet browser. WebVR on Samsung Internet for GearVR 1.0 currently uses the deprecated API set, but the company hopes to update support with the latest WebVR draft soon. In addition to native virtual reality content, Samsung Internet for GearVR 1.0 lets users browse all web pages through an immersive, big screen environment, along with support for streaming side-by-side 3D videos, streaming spherical 360 degree videos, and streaming 3D 360 degree videos. Likewise, the browser offers a Video History option, on-screen keyboard and voice input, support for Bluetooth devices like gamepads and keyboards, and other standard features like Quick Access, Bookmarks and Tab Manager. The Samsung Gear VR is a virtual reality headset that weighs just 318g and offers an FOV of 96 degrees. Gear VR currently works in conjunction with Samsung Galaxy S7, S7 edge, Galaxy Note5, Galaxy S6 edge+, Galaxy S6, and Galaxy S6 edge smartphones, using each device's super AMOLED display to help create an immersive VR experience. Suggested retail price for the Gear VR is $99. Beyond WebVR support, other recent Gear VR additions include a Hulu VR app. Likewise, FOX Sports and NextVR announced a partnership to offer live VR stream for sporting events through the Gear VR, and tonight's NCAA National Championship will be viewable in VR through Samsung's headset. Sources: Mozilla, Engadget, SamMobilePosted Mon Apr 4, 2016 at 01:15 PM PDT by: -
Netflix Debuts Trailer for French Series 'Marseille' Starring Gérard Depardieu[teaser]A trailer for the upcoming series has been revealed. [/teaser] Netflix has released a trailer for its latest original show, 'Marseille.' The French political drama is set to premiere worldwide exclusively through Netflix on May 5. As the municipal elections approach in Marseille, Robert Taro, the city's Mayor for the last twenty years, prepares his last coup: push through the vote for the construction of a casino in the historic center of the Marina. Nothing has been left to chance, and his successor, Lucas Barrès, is already designated. But the latter's all-consuming ambition and the secret interests of the city's leaders, whether they come from its opulent villas or from the cities of the northern suburbs, impede the Mayor's plans. The race for Mayor becomes a power struggle where no holds are barred. Only one question arises: how far will they go? Check out the trailer below! 'Marseille' stars Gérard Depardieu (Robert Taro), Benoît Magimel (Lucas Barrès), Géraldine Pailhas (Rachel Taro), Nadia Farès (Vanessa d’Abrantès), Stéphane Caillard (Julia), Jean-René Privat (Cosini), Guillaume Arnault (Eric), Hedi Bouchenafa (Farid), Carolina Jurczak (Barbara), and Nassim Si Ahmed (Selim). The series is written by Dan Franck who is also on board as Executive Producer. The first season will consist of eight episodes. Other upcoming Netflix premieres include 'Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt' season two on April 15, 'Special Correspondents' on April 29, 'Chelsea' on May 11, season two of 'Chef's Table' on May 27, 'The Do-Over' on May 27, the documentary 'Tony Robbins: I Am Not Your Guru' on July 15, and 'Home: Adventures with Tip & Oh' on July 29. A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Mon Apr 4, 2016 at 10:45 AM PDT by: -
Tribeca Shortlist Streaming Service Arrives on Apple TV[teaser]The new streaming platform is now available on Apple's media player. [/teaser] Tribeca and Lionsgate have expanded support for Tribeca Shortlist to the Apple TV. The service is also available on Roku players (Roku 4, Roku 3, and Roku 2), Roku TV models, the Amazon Fire TV, iPhones, iPads, PC, and Mac. "We're thrilled to launch on the new Apple TV with a native app that we feel truly showcases the device's state-of-the-art performance and Tribeca Shortlist's approach to helping users discover great movies fast," said President of Tribeca Shortlist Jeff Bronikowski. The service features a library of more than 150 critically acclaimed titles that have been personally selected by various industry experts, filmmakers, and actors. These "Shortlister" curators also provide personal insights into their picks to help guide viewers through their recommendations. The collection is refreshed every month with a turnover of about 50 movies, offering films from Lionsgate, Tribeca Enterprises, and other major studios and independent sources. Current titles include 'Adaptation,' 'The Messenger,' 'Meek's Cutoff,' 'The Station Agent,' and 'The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.' Likewise, current "Shortlisters" include Brett Ratner, Cara Cusumano, Costa Ronin, and Craig Ferguson. In addition to traditional streaming, the platform also offers an offline viewing and download option for iOS based tablets or phones. The current subscription fee is $5 per month and new customers can also receive a 14 day free trial. In addition to Tribeca Shortlist, Lionsgate also recently announced a new comedy streaming platform with Kevin Hart called Laugh Out Loud. Likewise, the studio is also launching the Comic-Con HQ streaming service in June. The current generation Apple TV starts at $149. Source: Tribeca ShortlistPosted Fri Apr 1, 2016 at 01:45 PM PDT by: -
Netflix Preps New Original Series from Spain[teaser]The streaming service is readying its first original series filmed entirely in Spain. [/teaser] Netflix has announced a 2016 production start for its latest original show. The currently untitled drama will begin production in Madrid and is set to debut worldwide exclusively through Netflix in 2017. "It is incredibly exciting to have Netflix in Spain. We are enthusiastic fans of its original series and it is a real honor for us to now be part of this project," said Ramón Campos, co-creator and executive producer of the show. "It is a joy to work with Netflix's extremely talented team, who is revolutionizing the television industry worldwide," added Teresa Fernández Valdés, executive producer of the series. The drama is centered upon four women from different backgrounds, hired to be switchboard operators for the country's only telephone company in 1920s Spain. These women have come from all over Spain to work at the forefront of a communication revolution in the middle of Madrid - a place which represents progress and modernity, where jealousy, envy and betrayal get mixed up with a hunger for success, with friendship and love, but, above all, with dreams. The first season will consist of 16 episodes running about 50 minutes each. The show is produced by Bambú Producciones with Ramón Campos and Teresa Fernández Valdés, producers of the acclaimed Spanish series 'Gran Hotel' and 'Velvet.' Gema Neira is also on board as co-creator. "We're delighted to be working with Bambú Producciones, director Carlos Sedes and co-creator Gema Neira on our first original series filmed in Spain. We're huge fans of their work on Gran Hotel and Velvet, epic romances that have been embraced by our members around the world" said Erik Barmack, vice president of international original series at Netflix. "We're certain that our members will love this unique and engaging drama created by some of the best storytellers in Spain." A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Fri Apr 1, 2016 at 12:39 PM PDT by: -
Lionsgate Partners with Kevin Hart for New Video on Demand Service "Laugh Out Loud"[teaser]Lionsgate is teaming up with the popular comedian to launch a new OTT platform.[/teaser] Lionsgate and Kevin Hart have announced a new partnership. As part of the deal, Lionsgate and Kevin Hart's production company, Hartbeat Digital, will launch a new video on demand service called Laugh Out Loud. "Lionsgate has always been a great partner of mine, and I'm more than excited to take our business and creative relationship to new levels," said Hart. "I understand the direction in which the television business is headed, and I see this big new space toward which audiences are starting to gravitate. I believe that launching this venture together now puts us ahead of the pack." Laugh Out Loud will feature exclusive content and original series created by Kevin Hart outside of his theatrical titles and live touring shows. The initial lineup is set to include a hidden camera premium original series in which Hart stars as an undercover Lyft driver. Likewise, the platform will also offer content specially selected by Hart along with shows featuring social media stars and up and coming comedians. This will include a series from Facebook and Vine star Logan Paul. In addition, the partnership will also include development of a mobile game featuring Hart. Kevin Hart has previously starred in films like 'Ride Along,' 'Get Hard,' 'The Wedding Ringer,' 'About Last Night' and 'Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain.' The comedian will be seen next in the upcoming movie 'Central Intelligence' with Dwayne Johnson. "Kevin is one of the biggest stars in the world, and we're proud to kick off our partnership with a new OTT platform as well as a mobile game, extending a collaboration that began with the film Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain," said Lionsgate Chief Executive Officer Jon Feltheimer. "He is an incredibly versatile talent who will bring his unique comedic voice to Laugh Out Loud's entire spectrum of original content, and his ever-expanding global fan base gives both initiatives tremendous growth potential. Nobody understands how to continue extending Kevin's brand better than Jeff Clanagan, and we're pleased that he will lead the new platform's growth." Pricing, a launch date, and specific device support for the upcoming Laugh Out Loud VOD service have not been announced yet. Laugh Out Loud now joins a growing collection of Lionsgate streaming platforms, including Tribeca Shortlist and Comic-Con HQ. Source: Lionsgate via PR NewswirePosted Thu Mar 31, 2016 at 05:45 PM PDT by:
