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Optoma Debuts P1 Smart 4K UHD Projector with Integrated Sound Bar[teaser]The all-in-one smart home entertainment system is now on display at CES 2019.[/teaser] Optoma has revealed its latest projector model. The Optoma P1 Smart 4K UHD Laser Cinema combines an ultra short throw projector with smart home connectivity and a built-in sound bar unit. The projector features support for 3,000 lumens of brightness and 4K resolution with 8.3-million-pixels. Likewise, the unit is capable of projecting up to a 120-inch image from a short throw distance of just inches. In addition, the device supports HDR10 and HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) high dynamic range formats, though the press release does not specify wide color gamut capabilities. Meanwhile, the P1 also includes an integrated 2.0 sound bar unit designed by NuForce with individual woofers, aluminum full-range drivers, and isolated speaker enclosures. Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus audio decoding capabilities are featured as well. Finally, the system offers access to streaming services like Netflix and YouTube, along with support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. "The Optoma P1 Smart 4K UHD Laser Cinema brings together the best of both worlds – large, true-to-life images with high quality sound – for a truly cinematic, ultra-immersive home entertainment experience," said Brian Soto, head of product management at Optoma Technology. "At Optoma, we are continually committed to introducing innovations to the market that meet consumers' evolving needs and expectations, bringing quality and simplicity to their lives at affordable prices. The P1 is the first entertainment product we’ve developed that we can confidently say stands to replace TVs in a large number of homes." Optoma's P1 Smart 4K UHD Laser Cinema is set launch in late Q2 2019 for an expected MSRP of $2,999. Source: OptomaPosted Thu Jan 10, 2019 at 12:00 PM PST by: -
Panasonic Reveals New 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Players with HDR10+ & Dolby Vision[teaser]Three new 4K Blu-ray player models have been announced.[/teaser] Panasonic has detailed its latest lineup of 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray players. The upcoming collection includes the DP-UB450, DP-UB159, and DP-UB150/154. The DP-UB450 will offer 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray playback with support for HDR10+ and Dolby Vision dynamic metadata high dynamic range formats. Meanwhile, the DP-UB159 and DP-UB150/154 will both support HDR10+ but not Dolby Vision. In addition, all three models feature High-Resolution Audio playback, while the DP-UB450 and DP-UB159 also incorporate dual HDMI outputs for separate video and audio transmissions. Here's a full rundown of key specs for each model per Panasonic: DP-UB450 Ultra HD Blu-ray disc playback (4K/HDR) Supports HDR10+ dynamic metadata technology Supports Dolby Vision 4K 60p/50p/4:4:4 output 4K video / 4K JPEG playback Full HD 3D Blu-ray disc playback High-Resolution Audio playback (DSD (11.2MHz/5.6MHz/2.8MHz), ALAC, FLAC, WAV, AIFF) Twin HDMI Pure AV (isolated twin output） Digital audio output (coaxial) DP-UB159 Ultra HD Blu-ray disc playback (4K/HDR) Supports HDR10+ dynamic metadata technology 4K 60p/50p/4:4:4 output 4K video / 4K JPEG playback Full HD 3D Blu-ray disc playback High-Resolution Audio playback (DSD (11.2MHz/5.6MHz/2.8MHz), ALAC, FLAC, WAV, AIFF) Twin HDMI Pure AV (isolated twin output） Digital audio output (coaxial) DP-UB150/154 Ultra HD Blu-ray disc playback (4K/HDR) Supports HDR10+ dynamic metadata technology 4K 60p/50p/4:4:4 output 4K video / 4K JPEG playback Full HD 3D Blu-ray disc playback High-Resolution Audio playback (DSD (11.2MHz/5.6MHz/2.8MHz), ALAC, FLAC, WAV, AIFF) Pricing and availability for Panasonic's new 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player lineup have not been announced yet. And beyond new Blu-ray players, the company also recently announced its upcoming GZ2000 4K OLED TV with Dolby Vision & HDR10+. Source: PanasonicPosted Thu Jan 10, 2019 at 09:50 AM PST by: -
MediaTek Set to Release First DTS:X System-on-Chip Solution for TVs[teaser]The new chips will include support for DTS:X decoding.[/teaser] DTS and MediaTek have announced plans to launch the first DTS:X System-on-Chip (SoC) solution for TVs. The new SoCs will be available to manufacturers in the second half of 2019. "We're excited to work with MediaTek to deliver the first DTS:X solution for TVs on its 4K UHD SoC chipsets," said Joanna Skrdlant, General Manager, Home Audio at Xperi. "We successfully launched DTS Virtual:X for TV together this past year, and we look forward to enabling DTS:X for TVs with MediaTek in 2019 to deliver a seamless, premium home entertainment experience for our mutual TV customers." With the new DTS decoder for single and dual-core MediaTek SoC architectures, manufacturers will be able to produce TVs that are backward compatible with all DTS-encoded content, including DTS:X and DTS-HD Master Audio. The DTS:X transcoder offers support for outputting DTS core audio over S/PDIF and ARC, along with DTS:X lossless bitstream output through eARC to connected devices like a DTS:X compatible A/V receiver or sound bar. Likewise, the tech also incorporates support for the new IMAX Enhanced program immersive streaming codec for 4K IMAX Enhanced movies via OTT services. "After DTS Virtual:X, we are pleased to work with Xperi again and to integrate DTS:X technology into MediaTek TV SoC's." said Mike Chang, Corporate Vice President, Head of Smart Home Business Group, MediaTek. "Together with new DTS:X support, our TV SoC solution with cutting-edge video and PQ engine will offer a more vivid, immersive viewing and listening experience for home entertainment." Specific TV models set to incorporate MediaTek's DTS:X enabled chipsets have not been announced yet. Source: DTSPosted Wed Jan 9, 2019 at 05:25 PM PST by: -
Panasonic Details GZ2000 4K OLED TV with Dolby Vision & HDR10+[teaser]The world's first OLED display with support for both HDR10+ and Dolby Vision has been revealed.[/teaser] Panasonic has unveiled its latest OLED TV model. The new GZ2000 4K OLED TV features advanced picture, HDR, and calibration options along with integrated Dolby Atmos upward firing speakers. "Together, Dolby and Panasonic are bringing best-in-class audio and imaging technology to Panasonic's TVs," said John Couling, Senior Vice President, commercial partnerships, "Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos perfectly complement the GZ2000's advanced display, transforming it into an entertainment powerhouse." The GZ2000 4K OLED TV will be available in 55-inch and 65-inch screen sizes. Equipped with a custom-made Professional Edition 4K OLED panel powered by the company's HCX PRO Intelligent Processor, the display has been optimized by Panasonic R&D engineers and Hollywood colorist Stefan Sonnenfeld for superior color accuracy and brightness capabilities. In addition, the set includes support for HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG high dynamic range formats. Likewise, the TV offers advanced calibration options with support for CalMAN PatternGen test patterns, AutoCal functionality, and Imaging Science Foundation (ISF) settings. And outside of picture performance, the GZ2000 also includes built-in upward firing speakers with support for Dolby Atmos audio. In addition, the sound system has been tuned by Panasonic's Technics engineers and uses Technics' proprietary JENO Engine. Finally, the display uses the new My Home Screen 4.0 platform and features Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa compatibility for voice control. Pricing and availability for the new GZ2000 4K OLED TV have not been announced yet. And sadly, if Panasonic's other recent display releases are any indication, it's very unlikely the TV will be sold in the US. Source: Panasonic via PR NewswirePosted Wed Jan 9, 2019 at 11:30 AM PST by: -
Trinnov Preps DTS:X Pro Update for Altitude Audio Processors[teaser]An expanded version of DTS:X is coming to the company's series of high-end audio processors.[/teaser] Trinnov has announced plans to release a free software update for its Altitude lineup, enabling support for the new DTS:X Pro format. Building upon the standard DTS:X platform, the upgraded tech will greatly expand the maximum number of unique channels a user can configure. "Trinnov has been collaborating with the DTS team since 2014, leading to a first public demo of a DTS:X 22.2 system at CES 2015 on an Altitude32 processor. Our software-based platform consistently enables us to release new formats before other high-end home cinema processors. In turn, our design allows us to offer the latest technologies to our customers at their earliest availability. This was the case with DTS:X, and having worked closely with DTS, we are now very satisfied to be able to introduce DTS:X Pro as their first licensee of this technology. This accomplishment is yet another example of our commitment to high spatial resolution." said Arnaud Laborie, Trinnov's co-founder and CEO. DTS:X is an object-based audio format developed for cinemas and home theaters, enabling more audio placement options for mixers, including the ability to position sounds overhead. While the commercial theater implementation of the tech can support up to 64 uniquely-rendered channels, the consumer version has been limited to 11.1 channels. But with the new DTS:X Pro update for Trinnov's Altitude products, that number will now be greatly expanded upon, offering support for up to 32 uniquely-rendered DTS:X Pro channels through the company's flagship Altitude32. "The flexibility and power of Trinnov’' platform and their dedication to a premium home theater experience for their customers is why DTS partners with Trinnov for the DTS:X decoder technology portfolio", said Joanna Skrdlant, GM of Home Audio & Solutions Licensing at DTS, a wholly owned subsidiary of Xperi Corporation. An exact launch date has not been announced yet, but the free DTS:X Pro software update for Trinnov's Altitude Audio Processors will be available later this year. Source: TrinnovPosted Tue Jan 8, 2019 at 07:00 PM PST by: -
Pioneer Announces New Headphones & AV Receivers[teaser]Several new audio products have been revealed.[/teaser] Pioneer has detailed its CES 2019 lineup of gear. The collection includes the S9 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones, the E8 Wireless In-Ear Sports Headphones, and the VSX-534, VSX-834, and VSX-934 AV Receivers. First up, the VSX-534 is a 5.2-channel AV receiver with support for up to a 3.2.2 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X configuration. The device is rated for 150 W/Ch (6 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 10%, 1-ch driven). Meanwhile, the VSX-834 and VSX-934 are both 7.2-channel receiver models with support for up to a 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X configuration. Likewise, both units are rated for 165 W/Ch (6 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 10%, 1-ch driven). In addition, the VSX-934 also offers Wi-Fi connectivity and Apple AirPlay 2 support, enabling multi-room playback, multi-device control, and enhanced buffering for AirPlay 2 speakers. The VSX-534 ($379.99), VSX-834 ($479.99), and VSX-934 ($579.99) are all set to start shipping in February. Beyond receiver models, Pioneer is also showcasing its new S9 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones. The device features large 40 mm (1.57-inch) rare-earth-magnet drivers and Copper-Clad Aluminum Wire (CCAW) voice-coils for Hi-Res Audio playback (via wired connection to a compatible player). In addition, the headphones offer Bluetooth connectivity with support for the AAC, Qualcomm aptX, and Qualcomm aptX HD audio codecs for high quality wireless playback. Likewise, the S9's include active noise-cancelling technology to help reduce external sounds. Finally, the headphones have been optimized to work with Google Assistant as well. Pricing and availability for the new S9 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones have not been announced yet. And rounding out Pioneer's CES lineup is the company's new E8 Wireless In-Ear Sports Headphones. The device features an Ear Direct Mount Structure with angled 6 mm rare-earth magnet drivers and nozzles. Likewise, the package includes small, medium, and large ear fins that lock each ear bud into place, creating a secure fit perfect for workouts. Bluetooth connectivity with support for the AAC codec is provided as well. Finally, the internal earphone batteries are rated for up to three hours of continuous connection on a single charge, and the carry case can recharge the headphones twice. Pioneer's E8 Wireless In-Ear Sports Headphones will be available in yellow, gray, and pink for an MSRP of $149.99. Source: PioneerPosted Tue Jan 8, 2019 at 02:35 PM PST by: -
IMAX Enhanced Support Expands to New Titles, Services, and Devices[teaser]More IMAX Enhanced products and content are on the way.[/teaser] IMAX and DTS have announced several new partners for their IMAX Enhanced program, including new streaming services, product manufacturers, and studios. "We're encouraged by the significant momentum and high-caliber partners that are embracing the IMAX Enhanced program in just the first few months of its launch," said IMAX CFO and Head of Corporate Strategy & Development Patrick McClymont. "These premium partners and the blockbuster titles announced today extend our product and content offering and advance our efforts to deliver the best at-home entertainment experiences to more consumers around the world." The expansion includes the addition of streaming services like FandangoNOW (U.S.), Privilege 4K (U.S.), Tencent Video (China), and Rakuten TV (Europe), which will all start offering select IMAX Enhanced content this year. In addition, Sony has announced plans to release its first IMAX Enhanced streaming titles through participating digital retailers. The launch lineup will feature 15 films, including Venom and Alpha. Meanwhile, Paramount will also release IMAX Enhanced titles this year. And outside of content, IMAX Enhanced is expanding to more AV receiver and display models as well, with newly announced support from brands like Arcam, Elite, Integra, Lexicon, Onkyo, Pioneer, TCL, and Trinnov. "We are pleased to announce the growth of the IMAX Enhanced ecosystem with leading studios, streaming services, and device partners who share our vision of raising the bar for home entertainment by delivering the highest quality content to premium devices," said Xperi EVP and Chief Products and Services Officer, Geir Skaaden. IMAX Enhanced use a proprietary post-production process and an advanced algorithm to provide high-quality 4K HDR images through the accurate reduction of noise and grain under the filmmaker's supervision. Likewise, IMAX Enhanced also uses a special variant of the DTS:X codec for immersive audio with specific adjustments for the home theater based on how the IMAX theatrical sound system operates. For our first impressions on IMAX Enhanced audio, be sure to check out Josh Zyber's series of articles on The Bonus View. Source: IMAX Enhanced via Business WirePosted Tue Jan 8, 2019 at 11:00 AM PST by: -
Sony Unveils New 4K Blu-ray Player & Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Sound Bar[teaser]The company has detailed more additions to its home theater lineup.[/teaser] Sony has announced two new sound bar models and a new 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player for its 2019 product lineup. The collection includes the HT-X8500 Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Sound Bar, the HT-S350 Sound Bar and the UBP-X800M2 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Player. "Whether it's the stunning 4K picture achieved with the new UBP-X800M2 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player or all-encompassing surround sound delivered through these new soundbars, the home theater experience Sony provides is unmatched," said Mike Fasulo, president and chief operating officer of Sony Electronics North America. "These new home audio and video products will elevate customers' ability to access theater-level sound and picture quality from the comfort of home." First up, the HT-X8500 is a 2.1-channel sound bar model with a slim design, built-in dual subwoofer, and support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio. Thanks to Sony's digital Signal Processing technologies and Vertical Surround Engine, the device can produce up to 7.1.2-channel surround sound. In addition, the sound bar offers seven sound modes to complement different types of content, along with a vocal enhancement option to amplify dialogue. Bluetooth wireless connectivity and one-cable HDMI eARC support are integrated as well. Next, the HT-S350 is a 320 watt sound bar system with 5.1-channel decoding and a wireless subwoofer. In addition, the system feature Sony's enhanced S-Force PRO Front Surround technology to create a more immersive soundstage. HDMI ARC and Bluetooth connectivity are included as well. Finally, the UBP-X800M2 is Sony's latest 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Player model. The device supports 4K Ultra HD playback, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG), along with 4K upscaling capabilities. In addition, the player offers Hi-Res Audio, DSD, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X playback as well. And beyond 4K Blu-ray and Blu-ray, the X800M2 features SACD/DVD-A compatibility and access to 4K streaming services like Netflix and YouTube. Pricing has not been announced yet, but Sony's HT-X8500 Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Sound Bar, HT-S350 Sound Bar, and UBP-X800M2 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Player are all set to launch this spring. Source: SonyPosted Mon Jan 7, 2019 at 05:45 PM PST by: -
Sony Details New 8K LCD and 4K OLED MASTER Series TVs[teaser]New flagship displays have been revealed.[/teaser] Sony has announced its 2019 MASTER Series TV lineup. The premium display collection will include the new Z9G 8K LCD TV and A9G 4K OLED TV. And outside of the MASTER Series, the company has also unveiled its new A8G 4K OLED TV and X950G LCD TV. "Continually innovating to exceed our customers' expectations is a core element of Sony's premium strategy," said Mike Fasulo, president and chief operating officer of Sony Electronics North America. "Our new MASTER Series TVs combine larger screen sizes, 4K and 8K resolution, and unique Sony image-enhancing technologies to create an extraordinary and highly immersive viewing experience." The Z9G 8K MASTER Series LCD TV will be available in 98" and 85" screen sizes. The display features an 8K LCD panel with Sony's Picture Processor X1 Ultimate and 8K X-Reality PRO, allowing the TV to upscale any content to near-8K quality. In addition, the set incorporates Sony's Backlight Master Drive feature with full-array local dimming and 8K X-tended Dynamic Range PRO. Likewise, the Z9G includes Acoustic Multi-Audio with four front-facing speakers. Finally, the TV supports Netflix Calibrated Mode, IMAX Enhanced, and Dolby Vision/Dolby Atmos. The A9G 4K MASTER Series OLED TV will be available in 55", 65", and 75" screen sizes. The display features a 4K OLED panel with Sony’s Picture Processor X1 Ultimate, Object-based Super Resolution, Object-based HDR remaster, and Super Bit Mapping 4K HDR. Likewise, the panel offers Pixel Contrast Booster tech, enabling more color and contrast in bright areas. In addition, the TV uses Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology to create sound from the screen itself. Finally, the A9G supports Netflix Calibrated Mode, IMAX Enhanced, and Dolby Vision/Dolby Atmos. The A8G BRAVIA OLED TV will be available in 55" and 65" screen sizes. The display features a 4K OLED panel with Sony’s 4K HDR Processor X1 Extreme. Likewise, the TV uses Acoustic Surface Audio technology to create sound from the screen itself. Finally, the A8G supports IMAX Enhanced and Dolby Vision. The X950G LCD TV will be available in 55", 65", 75", and 85" screen sizes. The display features a 4K LCD panel with Sony's Picture Processor X1 Ultimate and a full-array local dimming backlight with X-tended Dynamic Range PRO. Likewise, the TV offers Acoustic Multi-Audio by sound positioning tweeters. Finally, the display supports Netflix Calibrated Mode, IMAX Enhanced, and Dolby Vision as well. In addition, all of the above display models will incorporate Sony's Android TV platform with access to many popular apps from Google Play like YouTube, Netflix, Amazon Video, Hulu, and more. Likewise, the sets offer support for Google Assistant, and the Z9G Series, A9G Series, and X950G Series TVs will also be compatible with Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit. Pricing and availability for Sony's new 2019 TV lineup will be announced in the spring. Source: SonyPosted Mon Jan 7, 2019 at 05:15 PM PST by: -
Onkyo Debuts TX-SR493 & TX-SR393 AV Receivers[teaser]Two new receiver models have been announced.[/teaser] Onkyo has revealed the latest additions to its home theater lineup. The new 7.2-channel TX-SR494 AV Receiver and 5.2-channel TX-SR393 AV Receiver are both now on display at CES 2019 in Las Vegas. (Note: Images not yet available, above image is of the 2018 TX-SR383 model) The TX-SR494 is a 7.2-channel AV Receiver model rated for 160 W/Ch. The device offers support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X with up to a 5.2.2 speaker configurations. Meanwhile, the TX-SR393 is a 5.2-channel AV Receiver model rated for 155 W/Ch. The unit offers support for up to a 3.2.2 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X setup. Likewise, both models also include Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer and DTS Virtual:X technology. These processes can create virtual surround and height effects without rear, ceiling, or up-firing speakers. In addition, both receivers feature a new DSP-based Vocal Enhancer to raise or lower vocal frequencies in content. Four HDMI inputs and one ARC-enabled output with 4K/60p, HDR (Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG, and BT.2020), and 4:4:4 color sub-sampling support are integrated as well. Under the hood, the receivers use a discrete high-current analog amplification system, a High-Current Low-Noise Power Transformer, and large audio-grade capacitors. Finally, AccuEQ Room Acoustic Calibration and AccuReflex technology are included as well. The former allows the system to set sound pressure levels, EQ, and subwoofer crossover by detecting speakers, size, and distance. Meanwhile, the latter optimizes overhead effects from Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers. The Onkyo 7.2-channel TX-SR494 AV Receiver ($479.99) and 5.2-channel TX-SR393 AV Receiver (349.99) will be available in February. Source: OnkyoPosted Mon Jan 7, 2019 at 04:15 PM PST by:
