-
HDD Gear Deal Spotlight: Up to 50% off Ultra HD TVs & HDTVs![teaser]Amazon is offering a limited time discount on select 4K and 1080p displays! [/teaser] As part of the online retailer's ongoing electronics sales and promotions, Amazon is running a special deal on Ultra HD TVs and HDTVs from Samsung, Sony, and LG. Samsung UN55HU6950 55-Inch 4K Ultra HD TV - Currently $998 (50% off). Sony XBR79X900B 79-Inch 4K Ultra HD TV - Currently $6,498 (28% off). Sony XBR85X950B 85-Inch 4K Ultra HD TV - Currently $19,998 (20% off). LG 43LF6300 43-Inch 1080p HDTV - Currently $599 (14% off). These deals will only be active for a limited time. Make sure to stay tuned to High-Def Digest for more sales and special promotions!Posted Wed May 13, 2015 at 03:30 PM PDT by: -
TCL Releases New Roku TV Models, Prices Start at $229[teaser]Seven new models will hit stores this month. [/teaser] TCL has announced the launch of its latest crop of Roku TVs. The collection includes the 3800 Design Series and the top-of-the-line 3850 Decorator Series. "When we launched the TCL Roku TV last year we described it as 'the TV designed for the way consumers use TV today' because it puts streaming content in the forefront instead of as an afterthought. That shift in consumer behavior has only accelerated since the launch – streaming continues to grow in popularity, cord cutting is a growing trend, and consumers with cable are demanding smaller channel packages and supplementing them with streaming," said Chris Larson, Vice President, TCL North America. "With over 2,000 streaming channels, the TCL Roku TV offers the ultimate in choice, making it an ideal TV for the cord cutter or cable subscriber that wants to have access to the most entertainment content. The availability of the TCL Roku TV 3800 and 3850 series helps us keep up with consumer demand and provides a range of sizes and styles for people to choose from." The 3800 series will include the 32-inch 32S3800 ($229), 40-inch 4F0S3800 ($339), and 50-inch 50FS3800 ($479). Meanwhile, the top of the line 3850 series will include the 32-inch 32S3850 ($249), 40-inch 40FS3850 ($359), 50-inch 50FS3850 ($529), and 55-inch 55FS3850 ($699). Each 3850 set features "a premium design with a metallic finish offered in gunmetal and an all-aluminum quad pedestal stand." In addition, both series offer 1080p picture for models 40-inches and above, and use Roku's integrated smart TV platform that offers an extensive lineup of apps, including support for the Sling TV platform. Finally, each model has also been awarded the new Netflix Recommended TV designation. All seven models are expected to hit stores and online retailers later this month. Source: TCL via PR NewswirePosted Wed May 13, 2015 at 02:00 PM PDT by: -
Sonos Readies Play:1 Update with Improved Sound and Features[teaser]The wireless speaker is getting some upgrades. [/teaser] Sonos has announced new features and improvements for its Play:1 speaker system. The upcoming Sonos 5.4 update will bring sound quality enhancements, support for a simpler home theater setup, and new music streaming options. As part of the upgrade, the Play:1 will gain improved sound clarity with more natural vocals at high volumes. Likewise, bass performance has been optimized for customers who pair the Play:1 with a SUB. Meanwhile, the update also makes a wired connection to the router optional for home theater surround sound setups, meaning that users no longer have to connect an Ethernet cable to a BRIDGE, BOOST, or directly to their PLAYBAR. Finally, Sonos is adding new features to music streaming as well, offering a more advanced set of tools for streaming partners and a new look for TuneIn. The Sonos 5.4 update is currently available in beta for Android and desktop controllers and will be available for all customers this summer. The Play:1 is on sale now for $199. Source: Sonos no longer have to connect an Ethernet cable to a BRIDGE, BOOST, or directly to your PLAYBAR. - See more at: https://blog.sonos.com/news/announcing-sonos-5-4/#sthash.9tQm1HOX.dpufPosted Wed May 13, 2015 at 07:00 AM PDT by: -
Onkyo Announces New Receivers with DTS:X & Dolby Atmos Support, Prices Start at $699[teaser]The company's latest A/V receivers offer object-based audio technology. [/teaser] Onkyo has a announced the launch of two new receiver models. The TX-NR646 ($699) and TX-NR747 ($999) will both include support for the Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersive audio formats. The TX-NR646 and TX-NR747 are both 7.2 channel network A/V receivers. The TX-NR646 offers 170 W/Ch and the TX-NR747 offers 175 W/Ch along with THX Select2 Plus certification. Likewise, both models include Dual 32-bit DSP Engines and a new 384 kHz/32-bit AK4458 DAC from Asahi-Kasei. In addition, the receivers include 4K/60Hz-ready HDMI 2.0a connections with HDCP 2.2 compliancy and support for HDR and 21:9 aspect ratios. Finally, each receiver also includes integrated Dolby Atmos support and upgradeable DTS:X support (via a future firmware update) for up to 5.1.2 speaker configurations. Onkyo also notes that the DTS:X format will allow for "enhanced flexibility for height-channel placement, including in-ceiling speakers, front/rear height channels, and even Dolby Atmos-ready speaker systems." Onkyo's TX-NR646 will be available in early June and the TX-NR747 is expected to hit stores in late June. Source: OnkyoPosted Tue May 12, 2015 at 12:45 PM PDT by: -
BDA Finalizes Ultra HD Blu-ray Spec, Format Supports HDR & Expanded Colors[teaser]The next-generation Blu-ray specification has been completed. [/teaser] The BDA has officially announced the finalization of the Ultra HD Blu-ray spec and logo. The upcoming disc format will deliver Ultra HD content to Ultra HD TVs. "For years, Blu-ray Disc™ has set the standard for high definition picture and audio quality in the home. Ultra HD Blu-ray will do the same for UHD home entertainment," said Victor Matsuda, chair, BDA Promotions Committee. "The technical capabilities of Blu-ray Disc, in particular its significant storage capacity and high data transfer rates, will enable the delivery of an unparalleled, consistent and repeatable UHD experience." The Ultra HD Blu-ray spec supports video at up to 3840x2160 resolution, expanded color gamuts, high dynamic range, high frame rate content, and object-based audio tech like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Likewise, the format includes an optional digital bridge feature that "enhances the value of content ownership by embracing the notion that a content purchase can enable the consumer to view their content across the range of in-home and mobile devices." Finally, the spec also requires that Ultra HD Blu-ray players offer backwards compatibility with current Blu-rays. Ultra HD Blu-ray discs will hold up to 66GB on dual layer discs and 100GB on triple layer discs. Currently, the only way to watch Ultra HD content on a 4K TV is through pre-loaded hard drives or streaming and download services. With its superior storage capacity and compression techniques, Ultra HD Blu-ray promises to deliver higher quality Ultra HD content. Licensing for Ultra HD Blu-ray is scheduled to commence this summer. An exact release window for the first Ultra HD Blu-ray players and discs has not been announced, but previous rumors have indicated a possible holiday 2015 or early 2016 debut. Source: BDA via Business WirePosted Tue May 12, 2015 at 06:00 AM PDT by: -
Amazon's Samsung 4K Ultra HD TV Father's Day Deals Now Live, Displays up to 25% Off![teaser]Amazon is now letting customers pre-order select Samsung Ultra HD TVs under their Father's Day discounts. [/teaser] As part of the online retailer's upcoming Father's Day promotions, Amazon is now pre-selling several Samsung 4K and SUHD TVs under their discount prices. Samsung UN55JU7100 55-Inch 4K Ultra HD 3D TV - Pre-order at $1,600 (11% off). Samsung UN55JS9000 Curved 55-Inch 4K Ultra HD TV - Pre-order at $3,000 (25% off). Samsung UN60JU6500 60-Inch 4K Ultra HD TV - Pre-order at $1,600 (11% off). Samsung UN55JU6700 Curved 55-Inch 4K Ultra HD TV - Pre-order at $1,300 (13% off). Samsung UN65JU7100 65-Inch 4K Ultra HD 3D TV - Pre-order at $2,500 (11% off). Samsung UN65JS9000 Curved 65-Inch 4K Ultra HD 3D TV - Pre-order at $4,000 (20% off). Samsung UN50JU6500 50-Inch 4K Ultra HD Smart TV - Pre-order at $1,000 (9% off). Once the pre-order period ends, for the UN50JU6500, prices will be valid from May 17 to June 20. For the UN55JU6700, UN55JU7100, UN65JU7100, UN55JS9000, and UN65JS9000, prices will be valid from May 24 to June 13. For the UN60JU6500, prices will be valid from May 31 to June 20. Make sure to stay tuned to High-Def Digest for more sales and special promotions!Posted Mon May 11, 2015 at 05:00 PM PDT by: -
First AT&T Branded Android Tablet Revealed, Pricing Starts at $50 with Contract[teaser]The telecommunications giant is set to release its first AT&T branded tablet. [/teaser] AT&T has announced the release of its first self-branded tablet. The AT&T Trek HD is an Android tablet geared toward customers on a budget. "The Trek HD is a big step forward for AT&T in terms of developing affordable products with premium features. Not only is this our first AT&T branded tablet, it’s the first tablet in our entire portfolio with Lollipop already installed, so when you buy the Trek HD you're getting the most advanced Android operating system at a great value – on the network with the nation's strongest 4G LTE signal,” said Jeff Bradley, senior vice president, Device Marketing and Developer Services at AT&T Mobility. The Trek HD features an 8-inch HD display and a lightweight design. Under the hood, the tablet is powered by a 1.6 GHz Quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 CPU and a 4060 mAh Lithium Ion battery running Android 5.0. A 5MP rear camera and a 2MP front camera are integrated as well. The device also includes 16GB of built-in storage and microSD support for up to 32GB of additional storage. The AT&T Trek HD will be available for purchase at att.com on May 12 and at AT&T retail stores starting May 15. Pricing plans include $49.99 with a two-year agreement or $10 per month for 20 months with the AT&T Tablet Installment plan. Customers can also add the AT&T Trek HD to a new or existing Mobile Share Value plan for $10 per month. Sources: AT&T via EngadgetPosted Mon May 11, 2015 at 01:15 PM PDT by: -
.jpg)
Roku Launches Voice Search and Roku Feed on Android and iOS Mobile Apps[teaser]New features are now available on the Roku mobile app. [/teaser] Roku has announced the addition of two new search and discovery features. Roku Feed and voice search are now available through the Roku iOS and Android apps for current generation Roku players and Roku TVs. The new "Roku Feed" feature lets users track updates for content that they are interested in. For instance, the feature now includes a "Movies Coming Soon" option that gives customers mobile updates on pricing and streaming availability for theatrical releases. Mobile users simply need to load the Roku app, log into their account, and then select the My Feed section from the main menu. From there, customers can click on the "Movies Coming Soon" button to browse through titles that they can then "tap" to follow for updates. Meanwhile, the mobile app also now includes a voice search feature that lets users search for movies, TV shows, actors and directors by speaking their selections directly into their phones. In addition to iOS and Android platforms, Roku will also update the Roku Windows Phone app with these features at a later date. Likewise, the new Roku 3 with Voice Search remote is now on sale for $94. Source: RokuPosted Fri May 8, 2015 at 05:00 PM PDT by: -
Showtime Stand-Alone Streaming Service Set to Arrive in Coming Months[teaser]Reports indicate that the network will launch its own stand-alone streaming platform soon. [/teaser] Showtime has confirmed plans to offer a stand-alone digital streaming service. The proposed over-the-top platform will allow customers to subscribe to Showtime without a traditional cable or satellite package. An exact release date and pricing for the service have not been announced, but CBS Chief Executive Les Moonves revealed in a recent afternoon quarterly earnings call that the platform is expected to launch "in the coming months." Currently, only viewers with an authenticated cable or satellite provider can stream Showtime content through the Showtime Anytime app and website. This new service will likely allow customers to subscribe to Showtime streaming without the need for a cable or satellite contract, giving more users access to many popular movies and shows, including 'Homeland,' 'Masters of Sex,' 'Shameless,' and 'Penny Dreadful.' More details on Showtime's stand-alone streaming service are expected to be announced in the near future. Meanwhile, CBS continues to offer its CBS All Access streaming service for $6 per month, and HBO recently launched its own stand-alone digital platform, HBO Now, for $15 per month. Source: CNETPosted Fri May 8, 2015 at 02:00 PM PDT by: -
HDD Gear Deal Spotlight: Up to 42% off Soundbars, Receivers, and Home Theater Systems![teaser]Amazon is offering a limited time discount on select home audio gear! [/teaser] As part of the online retailer's ongoing electronics sales and promotions, Amazon is running a special deal on soundbars, receivers, and home theater systems from Sony, Yamaha, and LG. Yamaha RX-V677 7.2-channel AV Receiver - Currently $380 (42% off). Sony STR-DH740 7.2 Channel 4K AV Receiver - Currently $219 (27% off). Yamaha YHT-599UBL 5.1-Channel USB Home Theater System - Currently $400 (38% off). Yamaha ATS-1030-R Factory Recertified Sound Bar - Currently $180 (40% off). Sony HTCT260H Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer - Currently $210 (30% off). LG Electronics LAS551H Sound Bar - Currently $229 (24% off). These deals will only be active for a limited time. Make sure to stay tuned to High-Def Digest for more sales and special promotions!Posted Thu May 7, 2015 at 12:45 PM PDT by:
