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Criterion Announces April 8 Launch Date for The Criterion Channel[teaser]Criterion's streaming channel will return in April.[/teaser] Criterion has announced an April 8 launch date for The Criterion Channel. The service was previously available as an add-on for the defunct FilmStruck platform but will now be available as a standalone subscription streaming channel. The Criterion Channel will include streaming access to Criterion's catalog of over 1,000 movies, along with a roster of continually updated Hollywood, international, art-house, and independent films. Likewise, the platform will also provide curated director spotlights, actor retrospectives, commentaries, behind-the-scenes footage, and original documentaries. And several features found on the service's previous incarnation will carry over as well, including Guest programmer series, Adventures in Moviegoing, and regular series like Art-House America, Split Screen, and Meet the Filmmakers, along with the Ten Minutes or Less section, Tuesday’s Short + Feature, Friday Night Double Feature, monthly fifteen-minute film school, and Observations on Film Art. The Criterion Channel will be available for $10.99 per month or $100 a year in the US and Canada on desktop, Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, iOS, and Android devices. In addition, those interested in signing up for the service can also register as a Charter Subscriber before April 8 to lock in a reduced fee of $9.99 per month or $89.99 a year, along with early access to a members-only Movie of the Week between now and launch. And beyond the company's own service, Criterion is also expected to offer access to its library of titles through a new WarnerMedia digital platform set to launch in the fourth quarter of 2019. WarnerMedia was previously responsible for the FilmStruck streaming service, which was formally closed on November 29 of last year. Source: CriterionPosted Wed Jan 30, 2019 at 07:05 PM PST by: -
Hands On with Celerity Universal Fiber Optic HDMI Cables[Teaser]As home theater gear becomes ever more capable in terms of resolutions and color gamuts and audiophile soundtracks, it's important to make sure your accessories are also up to the job. [/Teaser]HDMI cables are the arteries and veins of any home theater. But if you've recently upgraded to 4K HDR video, you may run into trouble using older cables that worked perfectly fine for Blu-ray and Blu-ray 3D. For most folks, an Amazon Basics or Monoprice High-Speed HDMI Cable offers enough bandwidth for 4K HDR movies, streaming, and gaming. In our experience, there's no need to spend a lot of money on shorter HDMI cables, and those selling $100 6' cables are snake oil salesmen. However, bouncing between display and projector reviews here at High-Def Digest, I've learned that lower-quality "High Speed" HDMI cables struggle to produce clean, error-free signals over 25 or 30 feet when you combine 4K and HDR and higher frame rates. (In my experience, you start to get HDCP 2.2 errors, static, or picture dropout.) If you do find and pick up a long-ass HDMI cable that works as intended, it's a heavy beast of a thing that's a chore to run through walls or bend around A/V cabinets. Celerity Technologies offers a simple, compact solution for anyone who needs a 35-foot or longer HDMI cables. Dubbed Universal Fiber Optic HDMI, it's a fiber-based HDMI system with full support for 4K/HDR/60hz up to 1000-feet. It's slim, light-weight, and easy to install and run through walls, but there's a catch. My 50-foot sample kit costs $425, which is seven times more expensive than a 50' Monoprice Essentials CL2 Active High-Speed HDMI cable. Ouch. But I suppose Celerity's pitch here is that UFO fiber is easier to install at longer lengths, smaller, lighter, and hopefully more reliable. Celerity UFO HDMI Specs Data rate: up to 18 Gbps Resolution: up to 4K@60Hz HDMI High Speed HDCP v2.2 HDR CEC Up to 4:4:4 color sampling Audio Return Channel LED status indicator at T & R HDMI connectors, powered LED verifies connectivity Power T: 0.5W R: 0.5W; 5V DC Setup Setting up a Celerity UFO HDMI Cable is as easy as using banana plugs with your favorite speakers, but, as with any home theater wiring, challenges arise depending on where you want to run the cable itself. If you need to go in-wall, you better hope you have access to an attic, crawl space, or empty conduit piping. Given the way home theater rooms are designed for future upgrades, this is often the case. When running the Celerity UFO cables, Celerity recommends utilizing a fiber optic cable pulling eye along with some sort of pulling lubricant; they also caution against pinching the cable and/or pulling directly from any of the connectors. Since our time with the UFO HDMI Cable was temporary, I left mine bundled behind my media stand and/or under a rug as needed. The great news is that these fiber optic cables are bi-directional so you don't have to worry about running it in a specific direction. Once installed, simply connect the T (transmitting) and R (receiving) Connector Cables to the cable using the provided UFO Couplers (see above). The Connector Cables are shorter-run fiber cables with HDMI 2.0 terminals as well as USB-A connectors. The T cable goes into your AV Receiver or Media Player (USB power is optional here -- use if needed). The R cable goes into your TV or projector (USB power is required here). Bottom Line My time with our loaner Celerity UFO HDMI Cable was a positive one. From 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray with HDR10 to 4K/60Hz Apple TV with Dolby Vision to Blu-ray 3D, everything I passed from my AV Receiver to my displays played back clearly and with no digital errors... which is everything you need from an HDMI cable. Install it and forget it. The only drawback here is pricing. Is a Celerity UFO HDMI Cable worth paying seven times more than an HDMI cable? For most folks, no. Most of us only need short 3-9' HDMI cables where, as mentioned above, we won't have much trouble even with cheapo HDMI cables. But if you're the type of home theater and media room enthusiast where your main display or projector is 30+ feet away from your sound gear or other sources, or you're in a situation where running a thick, heavy HDMI cable doesn't quite work for you, it might be time to invest in fiber. It's certainly a high-quality product worthy of consideration. I just wish it didn't cost so much.Posted Wed Jan 30, 2019 at 03:21 PM PST by: -
HDD Gear Deals: Up to 34% off Samsung QLED 4K TVs[teaser]Several big screen displays are now on sale for the big game.[/teaser] As part of a special Super Bowl promotion, Samsung is offering discounts on select QLED TV models. The sale includes several Q6, Q8, and Q9 displays with sizes ranging from 65-inches to 82-inches. Here's a rundown of some of the current deals: Q6 Samsung 65" Q6FN QLED TV (Amazon) - $1,498 (32% off) Samsung 75" Q6FN QLED TV (Amazon) - $2,298 (34% off) Samsung 82" Q6FN QLED TV (Amazon) - $2,998 (33% off) Samsung 65" Q6FN QLED TV (Best Buy) - $1,499 (32% off) Samsung 75" Q6FN QLED TV (Best Buy) - $2,299 (34% off) Samsung 82" Q6FN QLED TV (Best Buy) - $2,999 (33% off) Q8 Samsung 75" Q8FN QLED TV (Amazon) - $3,298 (31% off) Samsung 75" Q8FN QLED TV (Best Buy) - $3,299 (31% off) Q9 Samsung 65" Q9FN QLED TV (Amazon) - $2,798 (26% off) Samsung 75" Q9FN QLED TV (Amazon) - $4,498 (25% off) Samsung 65" Q9FN QLED TV (Best Buy) - $2,799 (26% off) Samsung 75" Q9FN QLED TV (Best Buy) - $4,499 (25% off) The 2018 QLED displays all feature quantum dot technology for enhanced color and contrast, Smart TV functions with Bixby Voice control, and playback support for standard HDR10 and the new dynamic HDR10+ format. In addition, the TVs all offer a new Ambient Mode, which can display headlines, traffic reports, and weather updates throughout the day. Likewise, when the display is wall-mounted, Ambient Mode can even reproduce the appearance of a customer's wall directly on the actual screen, allowing the display to seamlessly blend into a user's room. Finally, the step-up Q8 and flagship Q9 models also add Direct Full Array technology with a panel of controllable backlight zones to offer superior black levels and contrast. These deals will only be active for a limited time while supplies last. For more Super Bowl deals and recommendations make sure to check out our full 2019 Super Bowl Sunday Gear & Gift Guide.Posted Mon Jan 28, 2019 at 03:30 PM PST by: -
Fluance Details Ai60 Powered Bookshelf Speakers[teaser]The new plug-and-play stereo speaker system is now available.[/teaser] Fluance has announced the launch of its latest speaker model. The new Ai60 6.5" Powered Bookshelf Speakers are designed to offer an all-in-one audio solution for music, movies, and games. The stereo system features an integrated 100W class D amplifier along with silk soft-dome tweeters, glass fiber drivers, and a wood cabinet design. Likewise, the unit includes wired connectivity for RCA, optical, and USB sources, as well as wireless Bluetooth support with aptX playback, offering a variety of plug-and-play options without the need for an additional amp or receiver. In addition, the device also includes a sub out for connecting a separate subwoofer for added bass. Here's a full rundown of specs per Fluance: Speaker Configuration - 2 Way, 2 Driver Powered Bookshelf Speaker System with Integrated Amplifier (Pair – 1x Active 1x Passive) Bluetooth - Yes; aptX Codec Input - RCA L/R, Digital Toslink Optical, Micro USB Tweeter - 1 inch Silk Soft Dome Ferrofluid Cooled Woofer - 6.5 inch Woven, Glass Fiber Composite Drivers with Butyl Rubber Surrounds Amplifier Power - Class D 100 Watts Continuous Average Output (2x 50 watts) Frequency Response - 35Hz – 20KHz (DSP Virtual Sound Perceived by Ear) Crossover Frequency - 2600Hz Phase Coherent – PCB Mounted Circuitry Internal Lead Wire - 18-gauge Internal Lead Wire to Reduce Signal Degradation Power - Input: 100-240V; Output: 24V 3.0A Enclosure - Acoustic Suspension Design Dimensions - 13.1 x 7.8 x 9.2 inch Speaker Weight - 29.3 lbs Subwoofer Output - Yes (Auto detect) Certifications - ICES, FCC, cETLus The Fluance Ai60 Powered Bookshelf Speakers are now available for an MSRP of $299 in black, walnut, white walnut, and bamboo via www.fluance.com. Source: FluancePosted Mon Jan 28, 2019 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
Coming Soon to Streaming: THE UMBRELLA ACADEMY, THE WIDOW, and More[teaser]A new superhero series from Netflix headlines this week's collection of streaming trailers.[/teaser] Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video have released new previews and info for several of their upcoming programs and films. Here's a full rundown of titles scheduled to arrive on each service: Ray Romano: Right Here, Around The Corner (Netflix, February 5) - 23 years after his last stand-up special, comedian, screenwriter, and Emmy Award-winning actor Ray Romano debuts his first Netflix comedy special, Ray Romano: Right Here, Around the Corner. Performing two sets on the same night - one at Manhattan’s Comedy Cellar and the second at the Village Underground, literally around the corner - Romano advises on choosing friends, surviving marriage, and knowing the difference between being old and not being young. The Umbrella Academy (Netflix, February 15) - On the same day in 1989, forty-three infants are inexplicably born to random, unconnected women who showed no signs of pregnancy the day before. Seven are adopted by Sir Reginald Hargreeves, a billionaire industrialist, who creates The Umbrella Academy and prepares his "children" to save the world. But not everything went according to plan. In their teenage years, the family fractured and the team disbanded. Now, the six surviving thirty-something members reunite upon the news of Hargreeve’s passing. Luther, Diego, Allison, Klaus, Vanya and Number Five work together to solve a mystery surrounding their father's death. But the estranged family once again begins to come apart due to their divergent personalities and abilities, not to mention the imminent threat of a global apocalypse. Paris is Us (Netflix, February 22) - Anna is a young Parisian in her twenties. After escaping a close death in a plane crash, Anna reminisces events from her life. In the streets of Paris, she is caught between dream and reality, present and past, in a city ready to explode. Suburra: Season 2 (Netflix, February 22) - A crime thriller set in Rome that describes how the Church, the state, organized crime, local gangs and real estate developers collide and blur the lines between the legal and the illicit in their quest for power. At the heart of the story three young men with different backgrounds, ambitions and passions will have to forge alliances to achieve their deepest desire. The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind (Netflix, March 1) - Against all the odds, a thirteen year old boy in Malawi invents an unconventional way to save his family and village from famine. Based on the best selling book and true story of William Kamkwamba. Directed by and starring Chiwetel Ejiofor and introducing Maxwell Simba. In addition, Netflix has also announced development on Reborn, a new film based on the comic book by Mark Millar and Greg Capullo. The movie comes from director Chris McKay (The Lego Batman Movie, Robot Chicken) and producers Sandra Bullock, Roy Lee, and Miri Yoon. Here's a logline per Netflix: Where do we go when we die? What’s waiting for us on the other side? Eighty-year old Bonnie Black finds out when she passes away in a Manhattan hospital and opens her eyes in the world of Adystria, a magical land of monsters and dragons where good and evil are waging an eternal war. Reborn in the prime of her life, she finds all her old friends and loved ones waiting… except the husband who died before her. Armed with a sword and partnered with her late father, she sets off through this battle-torn landscape on a quest to find out where he is. And according to a report by Deadline, Netflix is developing a new streaming show based on the Resident Evil video game and movie franchise. The potential show comes from Constantin Film, the same production company behind the film series starring Milla Jovovich. Though plot details are currently unknown. the story will focus on the Umbrella Corporation and the T-virus outbreak. The Widow (Amazon Prime Video, March 1) - Has she lost everything or is she chasing a ghost? Kate Beckinsale stars as Georgia Wells, and is on the hunt to uncover answers surrounding her husband’s mysterious disappearance. Also starring Alex Kingston and Babs Olusanmokun. The Boys (Amazon Prime Video, Summer 2019) - In a world where superheroes embrace the darker side of their massive celebrity and fame, THE BOYS centers on a group of vigilantes known informally as “The Boys,” who set out to take down corrupt superheroes with no more than their blue-collar grit and a willingness to fight dirty. THE BOYS is a fun and irreverent take on what happens when superheroes – who are as popular as celebrities, as influential as politicians and as revered as Gods – abuse their superpowers rather than use them for good. It’s the powerless against the super powerful as The Boys embark on a heroic quest to expose the truth about “The Seven,” and Vought – the multi-billion dollar conglomerate that manages these superheroes. Into the Dark: Down (Hulu, February 1) - In partnership with Blumhouse Television, Into The Dark is a horror event series from prolific, award-winning producer, Jason Blum’s independent TV studio. The series includes 12 super-sized episodes, with a new installment released each month inspired by a holiday and will feature Blumhouse’s signature genre/thriller spin on the story. - A current Netflix subscription starts at $13 per month for HD streaming and $16 per month for Ultra HD streaming. - A current Amazon Prime subscription costs $119 per year or $13 per month. Likewise, Prime Instant Video is available as a standalone service for $9 per month. - A current Hulu subscription starts at $6 per month with commercials. In addition, ad-free playback is available for $12 per month and Live TV bundle is available for $45. Sources: Netflix (YouTube), Netflix, Deadline, Hulu (YouTube), Amazon (YouTube)Posted Fri Jan 25, 2019 at 06:10 PM PST by: -
HDD Gear Deals: Up to 50% off Klipsch Speakers[teaser]The company is offering deals on several speaker models.[/teaser] As part of a special Super Bowl promotion, Klipsch is discounting select audio products, including floor-standing speakers, Dolby Atmos speakers, sound bars, and subwoofers. Here's a full rundown of the current deals: Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer - Currently $224 Klipsch R-625FA Floorstanding Speaker - Currently $479 Klipsch R-41PM Powered Bookshelf Speaker - Currently $299 Klipsch R-51PM Powered Bluetooth Speaker - Currently $494 Klipsch R-41M Bookshelf Home Speaker - $Currently $149 Klipsch R-41SA Dolby Atmos Speaker - Currently $299 Klipsch Reference RSB-11 Sound Bar - Currently $449 Klipsch RSB-3 All-in-one Bluetooth Soundbar - Currently $198 These deals will only be active for a limited time while supplies last. For more Super Bowl deals and recommendations make sure to check out our full 2019 Super Bowl Sunday Gear & Gift Guide.Posted Fri Jan 25, 2019 at 04:50 PM PST by: -
HDD Gear Deals: Up to $600 off VIZIO 4K TVs & Dolby Atmos Sound Bars[teaser]Select VIZIO displays and sound systems are on sale for the Super Bowl.[/teaser] As part of a special Super Bowl promotion, VIZIO is offering big discounts on several 4K HDR TVs and Dolby Atmos Sound Bars, including the P-Series Quantum TV (full review) P-Series TV (full review), the SB46514-F6 Sound Bar (full review), and the SB36512-F6 Sound Bar (full review). Here's a full rundown of the discounts: P-Series Quantum PQ65-F (Best Buy): 1/18 - 2/3: $1,599.99 (Save $500) PQ65-F (Costco): 1/18 - 2/3: $1,499.99 (Save $600) PQ65-F (Sam's Club): 1/18 - 2/3: $1,499.99 (Save $600) P-Series P55-F (Best Buy): 1/24 - 2/3: $649.99 (Save $150) P65-F (Best Buy): 1/24 - 2/3: $899.99 (Save $300) P75-F (Best Buy): 1/28 - 2/25: $1,799.99 (Save $200) M-Series M55-F0 (Target): 1/27 - 2/3: $599.99 (Save $100) M65-F0 (Target): 12/25 - 2/3: $849.99 (Save $150) M55-F0 (Costco): 1/27 - 2/3: $499.99 (Save $200) M65-F0 (Costco): 12/25 - 2/3: $769.99 (Save $230) M65-F0 (Sam's Club): 12/25 - 2/3: $769.99 (Save $230) SB36512-F Dolby Atmos Sound Bar SB36512-F (Best Buy): 1/27 - 2/9: $399.99 (Save $100) SB46312-F6 Dolby Atmos Sound Bar SB46312-F6 (Best Buy): 1/22 - 2/2: $699.99 (Save $100) SB46514-F6 Dolby Atmos Sound Bar SB46514-F6 (Best Buy): 1/22 - 2/2: $899.99 (Save $100) These deals will only be active for a limited time while supplies last. For more Super Bowl deals and recommendations make sure to check out our full 2019 Super Bowl Sunday Gear & Gift Guide.Posted Fri Jan 25, 2019 at 10:45 AM PST by: -
Everything Coming to Netflix in February 2019[teaser]Check out all the new streaming titles coming to Netflix throughout February.[/teaser] Netflix has revealed its February 2019 lineup of movies, series, and specials. Highlights include original shows like The Umbrella Academy, Russian Doll, Chef's Table: Volume 6, and One Day at a Time: Season 3, along with new original films like Velvet Buzzsaw and Paddleton. Likewise, the lineup also features a nice assortment of catalog movies like Jaws, American Pie, Final Destination, Pretty in Pink, The 40 Year Old Virgin, and more. Here's a full rundown of Netflix's schedule for February 2019 per Netflix: February 1 About a Boy American Pie American Pie 2 American Wedding As Good as It Gets Billy Elliot Dear Ex (Netflix Film) Final Destination Free Rein: Valentine's Day (Netflix Original) Hairspray Hostel Jaws Jaws 2 Jaws 3 Jaws: The Revenge Personal Shopper Pretty in Pink Russian Doll (Netflix Original) Siempre bruja (Netflix Original) The Edge of Seventeen True: Happy Hearts Day (Netflix Original) Velvet Buzzsaw (Netflix Film) February 2 Bordertown: Season 2 (Netflix Original) Romance is a Bonus Book (Streaming Every Saturday) (Netflix Original) February 3 Disney's Beverly Hills Chihuahua February 5 Ray Romano: Right Here, Around the Corner (Netflix Original) February 6 The Soloist February 8 ¡Nailed It! México (Netflix Original) El árbol de la sangre (Netflix Film) High Flying Bird (Netflix Film) Kevin Hart's Guide to Black History (Netflix Original) One Day at a Time: Season 3 (Netflix Original) ReMastered: The Two Killings of Sam Cooke (Netflix Original) The Epic Tales of Captain Underpants: Season 2 (Netflix Original) Unauthorized Living (Netflix Original) February 9 The Break: Season 2 (Netflix Original) February 10 Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj: Volume 2 (Streaming Every Sunday) (Netflix Original) February 11 Flavorful Origins: Chaoshan Cuisine (Netflix Original) Little Women February 14 Dating Around (Netflix Original) Ken Jeong: You Complete Me, Ho (Netflix Original) February 15 Larry Charles' Dangerous World of Comedy (Netflix Original) The Breaker Upperers (Netflix Film) The Dragon Prince: Season 2 (Netflix Original) The Umbrella Academy (Netflix Original) Yucatan (Netflix Film) February 16 Black Sea Studio 54 The 40-Year-Old Virgin February 21 The Drug King (Netflix Film) February 22 Chef's Table: Volume 6 (Netflix Original) Firebrand (Netflix Film) GO! Vive a tu manera (Netflix Original) Paddleton (Netflix Film) Paris Is Us (Paris est à nous) (Netflix Film) Rebellion: Season 2 (Netflix Original) Suburra: Season 2 (Netflix Original) The Big Family Cooking Showdown: Season 2 (Netflix Original) The Photographer of Mauthausen (Netflix Film) Workin' Moms (Netflix Original) February 25 Dolphin Tale 2 February 26 Our Idiot Brother February 27 Unsolved: Tupac & Biggie February 28 Jeopardy!: Collection 2 The Rebound Source: Netflix via ForbesPosted Thu Jan 24, 2019 at 02:45 PM PST by: -
High-Def Digest's 2019 Super Bowl Sunday Gear & Gift Guide[teaser]With the Super Bowl set to kick off on February 3, sports fans all around the country once again have the perfect excuse to upgrade their home theater systems.[/teaser] After all, how are you supposed to pull off an epic viewing party if you're only rocking a 32-inch display with wimpy TV speakers? I mean, can you really impress your guests if they all need binoculars to see the screen? The solution: a brand new 77-inch 4K HDR display perfect for upconverting the big game in all its glory, along with an immersive audio setup perfect for surrounding your living room with a roaring stadium full of screaming fans. And though that all might sound a little pricey, Super Bowl Season also tends to spark super sales, as stores need to start phasing out their 2018 inventory to make room for the industry's recently announced 2019 lineups in the spring. But even with sale prices abound, putting together the right AV system to show off every touchdown and sure-to-go viral commercial is no easy task. Thankfully, we're here to help with a comprehensive list of AV Gear suggestions ideal for Super Bowl parties at several different budget levels. And since we want to make sure to emphasize the "Big" in "Big Game," all of our recommended displays will come in at sizes 65-inches and above, and all of our sound systems include support for overhead audio tech like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Please note: prices are subject to change, and do not include taxes or shipping. Entry-Level Systems For users looking to pull off a killer Super Bowl party on a budget, these AV suggestions all offer very impressive specs for their price, providing fantastic bang-for-your-buck 4K performance and compact immersive audio playback. VIZIO E-Series 65" 4K Ultra HD TV ($700) - Though it lacks the wide color support and beefier brightness and contrast capabilities of more expensive sets on this list, the 2018 E-Series still packs a very solid punch for its bargain price point, allowing customers to take home a big-screen TV without breaking the bank. The display features a peak brightness of 400 nits along with Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG support. Full array local dimming is implemented as well (12 zones on the 65-inch) for better blacks and contrast over edge-lit sets. The SmartCast OS is used for integrated on-screen streaming apps and the ability to cast even more from a mobile device. And unlike 2017 VIZIO displays, this TV does feature an integrated tuner for OTA broadcasts with a digital antenna. A bigger 70-inch model is also available for just $800. Order from Best Buy TCL 6-Series 65R617 65-Inch 4K Ultra HD Roku TV ($900) - Winner of our Best Value TV for 2018 Award, the 6-Series comes packed with several advanced features normally reserved for more expensive sets. The display includes Dolby Vision and HDR10, along with the Roku OS smart TV platform. In addition, the set uses full array local dimming with 120 zones for improved black levels and contrast. Likewise, the panel incorporates NBP Photon technology with LED phosphors to provide Wide Color Gamut support. And for those who want an even more immersive Super Bowl experience, a larger 75-inch 6-Series model with 160 zones is now available for an MSRP of $1,799.99. Order from Best Buy (Note: the Best Buy model does not include Voice Remote) VIZIO SB36512-F6 5.1.2-Channel Dolby Atmos Soundbar System ($400) - This 36" 5.1.2 System features a 36-inch sound bar unit with two upward firing drivers, two rear satellite speakers, and a wireless 6-inch subwoofer. In addition, the device offers support for Dolby Atmos decoding in lossless TrueHD over HDMI from a connected Blu-ray player or in Dolby Digital Plus via a connected set-top box or smart TV. Likewise, the system includes DTS Virtual:X tech for simulated immersive audio if a user does not want to engage the upward firing drivers. With that said, the unit does not support DTS:X decoding. Order from Best Buy Mid-Range Systems Stepping things up a notch, this section features a selection of more advanced displays, including an OLED and even a 4K HDR projector for customers who want the biggest screen possible. Likewise, we've expanded our audio suggestions with more robust 5.1.4 and 7.1.2 options. VIZIO P-Series Quantum 65" 4K Ultra HD TV ($1,500) - VIZIO's new premium display rivals many competing LCD models that cost around $1,000 more, and currently offers some of the brightest HDR performance on the market. The TV features a bezel-less design with 4K Ultra HD resolution and full array local dimming powered by 192 zones. In addition, the set includes support for Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG high dynamic range formats with UltraBright 2,000 for over 2,000 nits of peak brightness and advanced quantum dot tech for close to 100% P3 wide color gamut coverage and about 82% coverage for the Rec. 2020 gamut. And unlike last year's lineup, VIZIO 2018 displays include integrated TV tuners for OTA broadcasts with a digital antenna. Meanwhile, the SmartCast OS offers on-screen streaming app support along with the ability to cast even more services to the display from a mobile device. Order from Costco Epson Home Cinema 4010 4K Projector ($1,800) - For users who want to watch the game on a really big screen, the Home Cinema 4010 has got you covered. The projector features 4K PRO-UHD tech with a high-performance optical engine, Epson's 15-element glass projection lens, and advanced pixel-shifting to produce 4K images (each pixel is shifted diagonally to double Full HD resolution). Meanwhile, the device offers 2,400 lumens of color and white brightness, a contrast ratio up to 200,000:1, 12-bit digital processing, and HDR10 playback support at 24fps. Likewise, the unit is capable of covering the entire DCI-P3 wide color space in Digital Cinema Mode. Finally, Full HD 3D projection support is included as well. Order from Best Buy LG OLED65B8PUA 65" 4K Ultra HD OLED TV ($2,297) - Though its α (Alpha) 7 processor isn't as robust as the Alpha 9 found on LG's step-up models, this display still features the same OLED panel used on the company's other models, complete with the tech's trademark inky blacks, wide viewing angles, and wide color support. Likewise, the TV also supports onboard Dolby Atmos audio and LG's 4K Cinema HDR suite of high dynamic range formats with wide color gamut capabilities, including Advanced HDR by Technicolor, Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma). Meanwhile, the TV's new ThinQ AI tech allows customers to take advantage of advanced voice assistant features by speaking directly into the remote, enabling users to search for information, images or videos through verbal requests. Order from Best Buy Sony Z9F 3.1ch Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos & DTS:X ($798) - While technically a 3.1-channel 400W system, this sound bar uses Sony's new Virtual Surround Engine to simulate up to 7.1.2 "vertical" sound in Dolby Atmos or DTS:X tracks without in-ceiling or up-firing speakers. A wireless subwoofer and Bluetooth capabilities are included as well, and this model also offers built-in Wi-Fi support. Finally, HDMI connectivity (2 in/1 out) with ARC, 4K HDR10, and Dolby Vision video passthrough are integrated too. VIZIO SB46514-F6 46-Inch 5.1.4 Dolby Atmos Soundbar System ($900) - This Sound Bar System features a 46-inch sound bar unit with two upward firing drivers, two rear satellite speakers with two upward firing drivers of their own, and a very robust wireless 10-inch subwoofer. In addition, the device offers support for Dolby Atmos decoding in lossless TrueHD over HDMI from a connected Blu-ray player or in Dolby Digital Plus via a connected set-top box or smart TV. Likewise, the system includes DTS Virtual:X tech for simulated immersive audio if a user does not want to engage the upward firing drivers. With that said, the unit does not support DTS:X decoding and a current limitation causes the front and rear height channels to play the same audio (though an update to provide true 5.1.4 support with discrete front and back heights is in the works). Order from Best Buy Flagship Systems With price restrictions thrown out the window, this last section includes recommendations geared toward pulling off the biggest and baddest Super Bowl viewing party possible, including TV screen sizes as large as 82-inches and a full 7.2.4 speaker package. Samsung QN82Q8F 82" QLED 4K Ultra HD ($4,298) - Brightness and contrast are not as robust as Samsung's flagship Q9 model, but the Q8 includes the option for an extra-large 82-inch screen size. The TV features full array local dimming along with quantum dot technology for wide color gamut capabilities and some of the industry's leading color volume specs. HDR10, HLG, and the new dynamic HDR10+ format are supported as well. Smart TV functions with Bixby Voice control and a new Ambient Mode round out the premium package, cementing this as one of the very best LCD display options available in this screen size. Order from Best Buy Sony XBR75Z9F 75" 4K Ultra HD TV ($5,998) - Sony's current flagship LCD remains one of the market's best all-around performers. The display uses the company's Picture Processor X1 Ultimate, and offers new Object-based Super Resolution and Object-based HDR remaster technology, along with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10, and TRILUMINOS tech with wide color gamut support. In addition, the TV also features full array local dimming and a new Netflix Calibrated Mode. Order from Best Buy LG OLED77C8PUA 77" 4K Ultra HD OLED TV ($6,997) - As one of LG's top-of-the-line 2018 OLED TVs, this display offers some of the best overall picture quality available in a 77-inch screen size, including perfect blacks, wide viewing angles, and the company's new α (Alpha) 9 intelligent processor for improved image and color performance over last year's models. In addition, the panel also supports onboard Dolby Atmos audio and LG's 4K Cinema HDR suite of high dynamic range formats with wide color gamut capabilities, including Advanced HDR by Technicolor, Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma). Meanwhile, the TV's new ThinQ AI tech allows customers to take advantage of advanced voice assistant features by speaking directly into the remote, enabling users to search for information, images or videos through verbal requests. Order from Best Buy Sony VPLVW695ES 4K HDR Projector ($9,998) - Part of Sony's premium 2018 SXRD projector lineup, the VPL-VW695ES features 4K Motionflow technology, HDR support, and 4K 60P 10bit processing. Likewise, the device is rated for 1,800 lumens of brightness and 350,000:1 high dynamic contrast via Sony's Advanced Iris technology. Finally, the projector is also IMAX Enhanced certified. Klipsch Reference Premiere Series 7.2.4 System ($5,500) - For users who want the full experience of a genuine multiple speaker system rather than a sound bar package, you really can't go wrong with the second generation Reference Premiere series. The speakers use Tractrix horn technology for better high-frequency response, imaging, and dynamics along with Linear Travel Suspension titanium tweeters, new vented tweeters, and copper Cerametallic woofers with Tractrix ports. Includes (2) RP-8060FA Dolby Atmos Floorstanding Speaker ($879 each), (1) RP-504C Center Channel Speaker ($649 each), (4) RP-6000F Floorstanding Speaker ($499 each), (2) RP-500SA Dolby Atmos Elevation Speakers ($399 per pair), and (2) R-110SW subwoofers ($349 each). Or go in-ceiling with the Klipsch CDT-5800-C II ($267 each) switching to the RP-8000F Floorstanding Speaker ($599 each). Denon AVR-X6500H 11.2 Channel AV Receiver ($1,999) - A great fit for powering the speaker system listed above, Denon's 11.2-channel receiver is rated for up to 140W per channel (8 Ohms, 20Hz-20kHz, 0.05% THD). The unit can support up to a 7.2.4 speaker or 9.2.2 Dolby Atmos or DTS:X configuration. Likewise, the receiver offers full 4K HDR/DolbyVision passthrough, and is set to receive HDMI 2.1 features like Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) via a future firmware update. Amazon Alexa Voice Control and whole-house HEOS music compatibility are integrated as well. Media Players, Antennas, Tuners, & Power In addition to big displays and immersive audio, buyers should also consider building redundancies into their Super Bowl Party system to avoid any unwanted mishaps (and very unhappy guests). If satellite/cable are not an option, a streaming media player with the CBS Sports App or CBS All Access is also a great way to catch the game. Likewise, your internet, cable, or satellite service could go down at any time, so it's a smart idea to add an HDTV antenna and a backup power supply. Further, it's important to remember many projectors do NOT include an internal OTA HDTV tuner. Meaning, you can't just add an antenna to the mix, but instead need an external tuner. The great news is that there are a TON of options for this, including no-feature budget external tuners, to full DVR-equipped boxes. Winegard FlatWave FL-5000 Indoor HDTV Antenna ($24) - 35 Mile Long Range; extra long coaxial cable (15') included. Winegard FlatWave Amped FL5500A Amplified Indoor HDTV Antenna ($49) - 50 Mile Long Range; embedded ultra low noise amplifier with Clear Circuit Technology; energy saving USB power supply with LED power indicator. ViewTV AT-263 ATSC Digital TV Converter Box and HDMI Cable ($37) - Watch OTA HDTV with separate antenna; USB Multimedia Player plays Divx, AVI, MKV, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, H.264/AVC, VOB, MOV, FLV, and VC-1; USB recording. Tablo 4-Tuner DVR for Over-The-Air HDTV with Wi-Fi ($195) - Watch, Record, Pause, and Stream Free Broadcast [OTA] HDTV Channels with separate antenna; four Tuners allow you to record and watch four different programs on up to (6) devices in your home. TiVo Bolt OTA 1 TB DVR & Streaming ($240) - Compatible only with HDTV Antennas; TiVo subscription required; record four shows at once and up to 150 hours of HD programming; pause, rewind and record free HD programming; access to streaming apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, YouTube, and more with 4K support when available; voice remote. TiVo BOLT VOX 500 GB DVR & Streaming ($200) - Compatible with HDTV Antennas and cable; TiVo service subscription is required; record four shows at once and up to 75 hours of HD programming; voice remote; access to streaming apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, YouTube, and more with 4K support when available; voice remote. Fire TV Stick 4K ($50) - Marked by industry-leading format support, the Fire TV Stick 4K offers Ultra HD playback with HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG high dynamic range, along with Dolby Atmos audio capabilities. The compact streaming stick is designed to connect directly to a TV's HDMI port, and is powered by a new quad core 1.7GHz processor and dual-band, dual-antenna Wi-Fi, offering access to tens of thousands of channels, apps, and Alexa skills. In addition, the package includes Amazon's latest Alexa Voice Remote with Bluetooth and multidirectional infrared technology. Likewise, users can also opt for hands-free voice control via a separate Echo device. Apple TV 4K ($179) - Powered by the A10X Fusion chip and 32GB of storage, Apple's flagship media player offers 4K playback capabilities at up to 60 frames per second with support for HDR10 (but not HDR10+), Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos. In addition, the device includes 4K scaling for HD sources, Siri voice search, iCloud support for media sharing, standard AirPlay capabilities, and the ability to serve as a smart home hub for HomeKit accessories with remote access and automated control. Likewise, bolstered by Apple's iTunes service, the unit includes access to one of the strongest HDR and Dolby Atmos app lineups available. A 64GB version is also on sale for $199. Belkin BE112234-10 12-Outlet Power Strip Surge Protector ($22) - 12-outlet surge protector with 10-foot cord, 4120 joule energy rating. Belkin 12-Outlet Pivot-Plug Power Strip Surge Protector with 8-Foot Power Cord ($27) - 8 rotating and 4 stationary surge-protected outlets, 1-in, 2-out RJ11 telephone/fax surge protection and coaxial protection, 4320 joule energy rating, 8' cord. Tripp Lite Isobar 10 Outlet HT10DBS A/V Surge Protector ($85) - 10 Outlet Audio/Video Surge Protector, Tel/Modem/Coax/Network, 8ft Cord. APC UPS Battery Backup & Surge Protector with USB Charger ($57) - 600VA / 330W Battery Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS); 5 Outlets provide Battery Backup and Surge Protection; 2 Outlets offer Power Surge Protection Only; 1 USB Charger Port. APC J25B 8-Outlet J-Type Power Conditioner with Battery Backup ($277) - Surge & Spike Protection, Telephone & Coaxial Surge Protection, 8 outlets: 6 UPS, 2 surge, 894 Joules, 1500VA outlet capacity. Panamax MX5102 Home Theater Power Management with Battery Backup ($450) - 10 Outlets; 4 Switched, 2 Battery Backup, 2 Switched High Current, 2 Always On, 600VA UPS 2 Outlets. So, there you have it. Those are our top home theater gear suggestions for the big game. We hope this guide helps out in your Super Bowl shopping endeavors. For now, though, what do you think about our choices? Do you have any other gear suggestions? Let us know in the forums! And be sure to check out High-Def Digest for more Super Bowl deals!Posted Thu Jan 24, 2019 at 08:50 AM PST by: -
Hulu Lowers Price for Standard Streaming Plan & Raises Price for Live TV Plan[teaser]The streaming platform has revealed new pricing for its services.[/teaser] Hulu has announced updated pricing options for its various subscription plans. As part of the change, the company's basic service will now cost $2 less per month while its Live TV service will cost $5 more per month. The updated pricing is set to go into effect on February 26 for new subscribers. In addition, existing users will be subject to the new fees starting with their next billing cycle after February 26. Here's a full rundown of Hulu's current plans and new pricing options: Hulu Standard Plan (Now $5.99 per month, previously $7.99) - The company's basic ad-supported streaming option offers access to more than 85,000 episodes of on-demand TV, along with thousands of movies and Hulu Originals like The Handmaid's Tale, Marvel's Runaways, Future Man, and Castle Rock. Likewise, Hulu is the exclusive streaming home to shows like ER, Lost, King of the Hill, 30 Rock, Family Guy, Seinfeld, South Park, and more. Hulu No Ads Plan ($11.99 per month, no change in price) - This option offers ad-free access to the same selection of content as the standard plan. With that said, about a handful of titles do still include a quick ad before and after each video. Hulu + Live TV Plan (Now $44.99, previously $39.99) - Hulu's live TV service includes access to the standard plan's on-demand content, along with more than 60 live sports, news, and entertainment channels. Likewise, users can also opt to upgrade to the Hulu No Ads on-demand plan, or add premium channels like HBO, Showtime, Cinemax, and Starz for additional fees. Source: HuluPosted Wed Jan 23, 2019 at 01:05 PM PST by:
