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Apple Music Support Arrives on Sonos Smart Speakers[teaser]The Apple music streaming service is now available on Sonos audio products. [/teaser] Sonos and Apple have announced the addition of Apple Music support to the Sonos platform. The service is currently available as a beta preview and a full version is expected to follow in the coming months. Apple Music allows users to stream music from the service to their connected Sonos speakers. Apple Music includes access to the entire Apple Music catalog of over 30 million songs along with curated playlists that are designed to fit your personal music tastes and features like For You, New, Radio, and My Music. Likewise customers with family accounts can add up to six of them to their Sonos experience and users can share songs and playlists with each other. Customers can sign up for the Sonos Apple Music beta by clicking here. The Sonos Play:1 ($199), Play:3 ($299), and Play:5 ($499) are on sale now. Meanwhile, an Apple Music subscription costs $10 per month and new users can receive a free three month trial. Source: SonosPosted Tue Dec 15, 2015 at 01:00 PM PST by: -
Letv Readies 120-Inch 4K Ultra HD TV for CES 2016 Debut[teaser]The global tech company is preparing to enter the US market. [/teaser] Letv has announced plans to showcase its products for the first time at CES. The lineup will include a new 120-inch 4K Ultra TV. "The year 2016 will be remembered as the time Letv entered the U.S. market, and we're kicking it off with our debut at CES," said Eric Mika, senior vice president of open ecosystems, strategic alliances and partnerships at Letv. "We're excited to show the world how dynamic the Letv brand is and all the new, exciting experiences and innovations our open ecosystem offer consumers - and we're doing it on a truly global scale." The Super TV uMax 120 is a 120-inch 4K Ultra HD TV with a resolution of 3840x2160 and a 120Hz refresh rate. In addition, the display includes precision sound technology with advanced acoustics, and 3D video support. Under the hood, the TV is powered by a 1.4GHz quad-core CPU, Mali-T760 quad-core GPU, 3GB of RAM and Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity. Pricing and a release window have not been detailed yet, but LetV's Super TV uMax will be on display at the company's booth during CES 2016 on January 5-9 in Las Vegas. Source: Letv via Business WirePosted Tue Dec 15, 2015 at 10:30 AM PST by: -
LG Details New MusicFlow Soundbars and X-Boom Audio Systems[teaser]The new audio products will be on display at CES. [/teaser] LG has revealed the latest additions to its audio lineup. The lineup includes three new MusicFlow soundbars and three new X-Boom audio systems. "LG's Music Flow audio system offers users greater versatility than ever before thanks to advanced portability and connectivity options that support excellent audio quality any time or place," said Brian Kwon, President and CEO at LG's Home Entertainment Company. "The largest consumer electronics tradeshow in the world is the perfect platform for debuting our newest sound bars and X-Boom audio systems." LG's new MusicFlow soundbars include the SH8, SH7 and SH6. All three models feature slim designs with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Likewise, the soundbars are capable of simple one button Wi-Fi paring with additional Music Flow speakers. The SH8 and SH7 both include wireless subwoofers, while the SH6 uses six independent speaker drivers and innovative dual bass ports to deliver deep sound without an additional subwoofer. Meanwhile, LG has also announced three new X-Boom audio systems. The upcoming OM7560, OM5560, and CM9960 all offer powerful sound with wireless connectivity. The OM7560 and OM5560 are solo models that provide entire audio systems housed in a single unit within the speaker. In addition, the systems feature a Party Thruster lever that creates multicolored light shows that sync with the devices' audio outputs. Pricing has not been revealed yet, but the new LG MusicFlow soundbars and X-Boom audio systems are expected to start shipping in the first half of 2016. All six models will also be on display at LG's booth during CES 2016 on January 6-9 in Las Vegas. Source: LGPosted Mon Dec 14, 2015 at 05:00 PM PST by: -
Google Play Movies Adds AirPlay Support for Apple TV[teaser]The updated app now offers AirPlay streaming. [/teaser] Google has released the latest version of its Google Play Movies app for iOS devices. Among the updated features is added support for AirPlay wireless playback through new Apple TVs. The Google Play Movies & TV app allows users to watch movies and TV shows from their Google Play account on their iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch or on displays using a Chromecast. Likewise, the latest version adds support for AirPlay streaming through 3rd generation Apple TVs or higher running Apple TV Software 7.0 or higher. In addition, the app update also adds HD streaming, cellular streaming, and a new design. Google Play Movies & TV version 2.0.7910 is now available to download for iOS products from the iTunes store. Source: iTunes via EngadgetPosted Mon Dec 14, 2015 at 03:30 PM PST by: -
SVS Announces the SoundPath Line of Audio Accessories, Cables, & Connectors[teaser]These should be easy to try out.[/teaser] SVS, the Ohio-based audio company so well-known for their subwoofers and more recently their two speaker lines, has announced a new line of audio accessories. The SVS SoundPath line primarily consists of speaker cable (both pretermianted and unterminated) and connectors. These products appear to be aimed at the sweet spot between the high-margin fancy-packaged speakers cables found in big box stores and the bulk discount stuff readily available around the internet. The best thing about these accessories is that like with SVS subwwoofers and speakers, these products are covered under SVS' 45-day trial and consumer Bill of Rights. The full SVS SoundPath line can be found here, and includes five products, including one product that has nothing to do with speaker connections. The SVS SoundPath Subwoofer Isolation System consists of special subwoofer feet that are made out of elastomer encased in stainless steel. The idea is to isolatate that base that comes out of a subwoofer's frame (as in to the floor and walls) while letting the port or woofer do its work. A single system (four feet) is priced at $49.99. The sub-centric company is is also offering a SoundPath RCA Interconnect Cable, which is suitable for a number of analog connections, but is naturally ideal for connecting a subwoofer (or two). These cables are available is 1 meter to 15 meter lengths, and have been built with five layers of insulation and 24k plated connectors. A 3 meter cable SoundPath RCA Interconnect Cable is priced at $34.99. In the SoundPath Ultra Speaker Cable, SVS has its preterminated Ultra cabling option, which the company would has postioned as rivialing speaker cabels in the world in terms of material rating. The SoundPath Ultra Speaker Cable uses 41 strands of 99.9% pure copper under five layers of insulation and is connected by hand-soldering (back at SVS in Ohio) to either 24k gold plated beryllium copper banana plugs or spades. These come in 13 different options in terms of length from 4-50', but can also be ordered in custom lengths. A 10' SoundPath Ultra Speaker Cable with either banana, spade, or mix connectors is priced at $49.99. More accessible is the SoundPath One Speaker Cable, which is 14 AWG stranded and comes in spools of 50' or 100'. This is a rounded electromagnetic shielded cable with a translucent outer shell that has foot markings for easy measuring. (As in 1', 2', 3' to help with measuring.) A 50' spool of SoundPath One Speaker Cable is priced at $29.99. Naturally, to go with the SoundPath One Speaker Cable, and all of SVS' speakers and their five-way binding posts, there are the SVS Speaker Cable Terminals. Available as both banana plugs and spade terminals, these 24K gold plated brass body terminals use a two piece screw design that I am familiar with, and it is my personal preference. (These can fit up to a 10 AWG wire.) Plugs and terminals are ideal for anyone has is often changing out amps and speakers. (Especially in the amp side.) A single set of either banana or spade SoundPath Speaker Cable Terminals is priced at $9.99. Here is a rundown from SVS on the SoundPath line: SVS SoundPath Subwoofer Isolation System The SVS SoundPath Subwoofer Isolation System improves bass performance while sharply reducing bass output transferred through floors and walls, making you a better neighbor. The optimized elastomer feet de-couple a subwoofer from the floor, creating tighter, more precise and immersive bass you can feel, while cleaning up distracting room-based artifacts and preventing low frequency sound waves from bothering neighbors or housemates in adjacent areas. The SVS SoundPath Subwoofer Isolation System works with nearly any brand or model of subwoofer and many AV components as well. SoundPath Interconnect Cable SVS SoundPath Interconnect Cables maintain pristine signal purity and provide noise rejection under all conditions so audio systems can reach their true performance potential. The new interconnects have a hefty, high-end feel and feature pure copper conductors with 24K gold plated brass connectors and a precision-engineered five-layer dielectric insulation system to reject RF and electromagnetic interference. SoundPath Ultra Speaker Cable SVS SoundPath Ultra speaker cables are built without compromise using the same materials, design standards and fabrication techniques as the best speaker cables in the world. The cables are expertly soldered and custom terminated by hand in Ohio to any length desired with choice of hand-soldered 24K gold plated copper spades, 24K gold plated copper banana plugs, or a mix of both if spades are preferred for speakers and banana terminals for amps or receivers. SoundPath One Speaker Cable SVS SoundPath One Speaker Cables employ high-end materials, expert fabrication techniques and clever design elements to provide a far superior alternative to bulk speaker wire or cable, at a highly competitive price. The 14 gauge stranded speaker cable offers great fidelity and outstanding noise rejection with excellent durability and comes in 50 or 100 foot spools. Soundpath Speaker Cable Terminals SVS SoundPath Speaker Cable Terminals are expertly designed to work with all speaker models. The 24K gold plated brass spades and banana terminals were exhaustively tested and configured for the best possible grip and most surface area contact with a wide range of bare wire and speaker terminals. Excellent for use with SVS SoundPath One Speaker Cable, or those from other brands, these banana plug and spade terminals are extremely affordable, easy to assemble and provide perfect signal transfer at the point of contact with your speakers. Source: SVSPosted Fri Dec 11, 2015 at 11:40 AM PST by: -
Puro Sound Reveals BT5200 Healthy Ears Headphones for Adults[teaser]The company has detailed its newest headphone model. [/teaser] Puro Sound Lands has revealed the latest addition to its audio lineup. The new BT5200 is the company's first Healthy Ears headphone for adults. "These headphones are the first Healthy Ears® headphones for adults we are bringing to the market. They incorporate our signature Puro Balanced Response® curve and outstanding noise isolation, which means you'll hear that perfect balance of sound for clear vocal reproduction, which reduces the need for increased volume. The audio experience of our BT5200 headphones most closely replicates the audio quality of a high-end home loudspeaker system," said Robert Emma, CMO of Puro Sound Labs. Adding that, "Our BT5200's offer our discerning adult consumers a premiere healthy hearing audio option that provides not only phenomenal sound quality but also style and functionality." The headphones feature Puro's Balanced Response curve with 40mm custom dynamic drivers and are capable of folding flat for travel. In addition, the BT5200 uses advanced microprocessor driven LEDs to indicate volume for safe listening levels. Likewise, the device offers Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity with support for the AptX codec. The battery life is rated for 24-hours of music playback and 260 hours standby. The BT5200 headphones will be available on December 15 for a suggested retail price of $129. Source: Puro Sound LabsPosted Fri Dec 11, 2015 at 09:00 AM PST by: -
HDD Gear Deal Spotlight: Up to 27% off Roku HDTVs & Roku Players[teaser]Amazon is offering discounts on select Roku gear! [/teaser] As part of the online retailer's ongoing holiday promotions, Amazon is running a limited time sale on Roku TVs and media players. TCL 48FS3700 48-Inch 1080p Roku Smart LED TV - Currently $380 (27% off). TCL 28S3750 28-Inch 720p Roku Smart LED TV - Currently $180 (22% off). Hisense 40H4C 40-Inch 1080p Roku Smart LED TV - Currently $300 (9% off). Roku 2 Streaming Media Player (2015 model) - Currently $59 (16% 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 promotions!300Posted Thu Dec 10, 2015 at 11:00 AM PST by: -
Audiofly Readies AF240 Over-Ear Headphone, Price Set for $250[teaser]The new headphone is the company's first over-ear model. [/teaser] Audiofly has announced the release of its first over-ear headphone. The AF240 has been designed with comfort, budget, and sound quality in mind. "The AF240s were designed with an honesty that reflects the sound stage we as musicians aspire to – we're excited to finally share them with everyone," said Audiofly CEO, Dave Thompson. The headphone features a 40mm single membrane neodymium driver for detailed and accurate sound. The AF240 uses a polycarbonate body and alloy arms for a lightweight design and incorporates a self-adjusting headband. In addition, the headphone incorporates memory foam ear cups that are capable of isolating up to 20dB of outside noise. Likewise, the AF240 also uses Audiofly's proprietary Audioflex braided cable along with the company's Clear-Talk microphone and control button that is compatible with iOS or Android devices. Finally, the headphone comes with a waxed canvas carry pouch for travel as well. Audiofly's AF240 is now available in black or vintage white for a suggested retail price of $250. Source: AudioflyPosted Thu Dec 10, 2015 at 08:00 AM PST by: -
NBC Sets January 7 Launch Date for SeeSo Comedy Streaming Service[teaser]The digital comedy service will launch next month. [/teaser] NBC has announced a launch date and finalized programming list for its new comedy streaming platform. Dubbed SeeSo, the service will feature classic shows and original content. SeeSo is an ad-free subscription based digital streaming platform that will focus on comedy shows and clips. The platform will include catalog content from NBC's collection, including series like 'The Office,' '30 Rock,' and 'Saturday Night Live.' Likewise, the service will be home to several exclusive classic comedy titles remastered in HD like 'Monty Python’s Flying Circus' and 'The Kids in the Hall.' In addition, SeeSo's initial lineup of original material will include 'The UCB Show,' 'Dave and Ethan: Lovemakers,' 'Sammy J & Randy in Ricketts Lane,' 'Before the Morning After,' 'The Cyanide & Happiness Show,' and comedy specials from Rory Scovel and Matt Besser. More exclusive shows, like Dan Harmon's 'HarmonQuest' will be added in the coming months. SeeSo is currently in a limited beta, and will expand to a public launch on January 7 for $4 per month. The service will be initially available on iOS and Android devices with support for more streaming platforms expected at a later date. Sources: Variety, DeadlinePosted Wed Dec 9, 2015 at 04:00 PM PST by: -
Onkyo & Iron Maiden Unveil ED-PH0N3S On-Ear Headphones, Price Set for $299[teaser]The new headphones are designed for rock and metal fans. [/teaser] Onkyo has announced the release of their new ED-PH0N3S On-Ear Headphones. Created in partnership with Iron Maiden bassist, founder member, and co-producer, Steve Harris, the headphones have been designed to meet the needs of rock and heavy metal music. "I knew that I would need some really good headphones to use for playback of the mixes of ‘The Book Of Souls’, our new Maiden studio album. I'd actually started looking into this about 18 months prior to when we started recording because I'd been struggling to find a design which came even remotely close to what I felt was an acceptable sonic standard for rock/metal. My main objective was for a balance that wasn't just top and bottom heavy with hardly any mid-range like a lot of headphones these days that are basically designed for dance music. I wanted a good balance across the widest bandwidth incorporating a lot more mid-range frequencies, something I strongly feel is vital to appreciate the complexities of our music and rock/metal in general. A friend at ONKYO suggested I get in touch with the company to create a design that could meet my specifications. We started collaborating and have been working on them ever since, endlessly evaluating frequencies and modifying drive units, materials, cables and connectors until we achieved my ideal balance. I am now really happy with the final result," said Steve Harris. The ED-PH0N3S headphones promise even-handed power and detail at all frequencies. They feature two customized 40mm titanium drivers with unique ported bass sub-chambers for clear mid and high-frequency ranges along with deep bass. Likewise, the headphones have been rated for a frequency response of 10Hz – 27kHz and a max input power of 800mW. Onkyo's ED-PH0N3S On-Ear Headphones are now available for a suggested retail price of $299. Source: OnkyoPosted Wed Dec 9, 2015 at 03:00 PM PST by:
