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This Week in Gear: Dell Reveals New HDR Monitor, DTS Play-Fi Adds Alexa Cast Support, and More[teaser]We've compiled the latest gear news, including details on Dell's new HDR monitor, the arrival of Alexa Cast support for select DTS Play-Fi products, and more.[/teaser] From product announcements and streaming app updates to general industry news and recent gear trends, keeping up with the latest tech news can be a daunting task. With that in mind, we're here to offer you a roundup of some of the latest gear and consumer electronics news that you may have missed. For this edition, we're covering Dell's new 27-inch HDR monitor, the launch of Alexa Cast support for "Works with Alexa" certified DTS Play-Fi enabled products, and pre-orders for the upcoming PDP Cloud Remote for PS4. So, without further ado, here's a rundown of some of the latest gear and tech news: Dell Details New 27-inch HDR Monitor To coincide with this week's IFA 2018 tradeshow in Berlin, Dell has announced the latest addition to its display lineup. The 27-inch USB-C Ultrathin S2719DC features HDR support and is set to launch on September 20 for an MSRP of $550. "One challenge for the PC industry has been creating a product that marries innovation with quality form factors, materials and features at a price point for every audience. To thrive in a competitive PC landscape, a company needs to deliver premium design as well as innovation for a mainstream audience," said Maribel Lopez, founder and principal analyst at Maribel Research. "Dell's expanding consumer portfolio revealed at IFA this year highlights how the company continues to support a vision of developing devices that fit the needs of every user." The S2719DC uses a 27-inch IPS panel with a resolution of 2560 x 1440, a 16:9 aspect ratio, a 1,000:1 typical contrast ratio, and an InfinityEdge design. In addition, the display is VESA-certified DisplayHDR 600 for high dynamic range support at a peak of 600 nits. Likewise, the monitor offers sRGB coverage of about 99% and DCI-P3 coverage of about 90%. A USB Type-C connector is integrated as well, providing video, data, and power transmission from one source. Meanwhile, Dell also announced a new collection of SE Monitors. The lineup includes the 21.5-inch SE2219H ($170), 23.8-inch SE2419H ($200), and 27-inch SE2719H ($250) FHD monitors with IPS panels and thin bezels. All three models are set to launch on September 25. Source: Dell DTS Play-Fi Adds Alexa Cast Support DTS has announced the launch of Alexa Cast support for DTS Play-Fi enabled "Works with Amazon Alexa" audio products. The feature is now compatible with select devices from Aerix, Definitive Technology, Klipsch, McIntosh, Onkyo, Phorus, Pioneer, Polk, and Soundcast. In addition, support will also be available on some upcoming products from SVS Sound. With Alexa Cast support, users can now send and control music directly from the native Amazon Music app to "Works with Alexa" certified DTS Play-Fi speakers. "DTS is excited to add support for the latest feature from Amazon Alexa, which enables us to offer consumers the most flexibility in an open wireless multi-room audio platform," said Dannie Lau, general manager, DTS Play-Fi. "Now with integrated Alexa Voice Services, Works with Alexa certification, and Alexa Cast support, DTS Play-Fi users have a seamless entertainment experience with the choice to control Amazon Music through voice commands or through their mobile device." Here's a full rundown of DTS Play-Fi products with Works with Alexa support per DTS: Aerix Duet music system ARCAM rPlay music streamer Definitive Technology W Studio Micro sound bar Klipsch Gate music streamer, PowerGate amplifier, RW-1 speaker, "The Capital Three" speaker, "The Three" speaker, and RSB-8 and RSB-14 sound bars McIntosh MB50 streaming audio player and RS100 speaker Onkyo P3 Smart Speaker Phorus PS10 Smart Speaker Pioneer F4 Smart Speaker Polk Omni SB1+ sound bar Soundcast VG10 outdoor portable speaker DTS Play-Fit tech enables customers to wirelessly play high quality lossless music from smartphones and tablets over an existing Wi-Fi network throughout the home. The tech can synchronize playback of a single source to multiple speakers; can stream different sources to different speakers simultaneously from the same mobile device; and can support individual music streams to separate speakers from different devices at the same time. Likewise, Play-Fi is not brand exclusive. This means that Play-Fi audio products from different manufacturers can actually work together seamlessly. Works with Alexa support is also set to be added to even more DTS Play-Fi products throughout the year, including select sound bars and receivers. Source: DTS Sony Launches Pre-Orders for New PS4 Cloud Remote Sony has announced the upcoming launch of a new Cloud Remote for the PS4 from PDP. The remote is now available for pre-order from Amazon for $30. Units are expected to start shipping by September 18. The PDP Cloud Remote for PS4 features a compact design and can automatically program itself using the downloadable PDP Cloud Remote App. Through advanced Cloud technology, the app is able to auto-detect devices connected to the PS4, enabling simple programming for a variety of products. Here's a full rundown of key features per Sony and PDP: Includes controls for power, input, and volume for TVs Hassle-free Cloud-assisted technology for programming remote Connects via Bluetooth to control your PS4 system Access all essential controls under one thumb with a sleek and compact design Features the most important buttons for navigating system menus and apps In addition, buyers can also receive a special 30-day free trial of the PlayStation Vue Core plan with the purchase of the Cloud Remote at Amazon or GameStop -- while supplies last. The streaming TV service offers access to 65 live TV channels, including ESPN, FX, AMC, Cartoon Network, NFL Network, MLB Network, and more. Source: PlayStation BlogPosted Sat Sep 1, 2018 at 09:45 PM PDT by: -
Coming Soon to Streaming: DC Universe, The First, and More[teaser]A launch date for DC Universe and a trailer for Sean Penn's new Hulu series are among this week's crop of streaming news.[/teaser] New previews and info for several upcoming streaming services, shows, and films have been revealed. First up, Warner Bros. and DC Entertainment have announced a launch date for their upcoming DC Universe digital entertainment service. The platform will go live on September 15, 2018 to coincide with Batman Day. In addition, an October 12 premiere date has been revealed for Titans, the upcoming live action series based on the Teen Titans comic book. Following the premiere, new episodes will be released on the service weekly. Likewise, the first two seasons of the animated show Young Justice will be available on launch day in anticipation of the 2019 debut of Young Justice: Outsiders. And beyond those series, DC Universe will also feature several other exclusive original shows based on DC Comics characters, including a live-action series based on the Doom Patrol comic, a live-action show based on the Swamp Thing character, and a new animated Harley Quinn show. In addition, the platform will be home to classic TV series and films, a curated selection of digital comic books, breaking news, a DC-centric encyclopedia, and access to exclusive merchandise. A DC Daily series with news and commentary from a variety of hosts has been announced as well. The initial lineup of co-hosts is set to include John Barrowman, Samm Levine, Harley Quinn Smith, and more. DC Universe will be available for $8 per month or $75 annually in the US on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, web, and mobile web devices. Meanwhile, Hulu, Netflix, CBS All Access, Crackle, and Amazon Prime Video have released new trailers for some of their upcoming programs and movies. Here's a full rundown of titles scheduled to arrive on each service: The First (Hulu, September 14) - Sean Penn leads an ensemble cast in this near-future drama about a crew of astronauts attempting to become the first humans on Mars. Under the direction of visionary aerospace magnate Laz Ingram (Natascha McElhone), the crew contends with peril and personal sacrifice as they undertake the greatest pioneering feat in human history. Daniel Sloss: Live Shows (Netflix, September 11) - Two specials. One dark soul. The dark mind of Daniel Sloss is back, and he’s ready to find the funny in some very taboo topics, from the deeply personal to the highly irreverent. Boca Juniors Confidencial (Netflix, September 14) - It’s time to get to know the mystic from within. In 2018, a new Netflix documentary series will take you to Boca Juniors behind the scenes. Players, fans and staff of soccer powerhouse Boca Juniors provide an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at Argentina's legendary club. Big Mouth: Season 2 (Netflix, October 5) - A half-hour edgy adult animated comedy from real-life best friends Nick Kroll (Kroll Show, The League) and Andrew Goldberg (Family Guy) about the glorious nightmare that is teenaged puberty. Comedian John Mulaney (John Mulaney: The Comeback Kid, Saturday Night Live) lends his voice to the character of Andrew, while Kroll (who serves as co-creator, executive producer) voices many including best friend Nick. Maya Rudolph (Maya & Marty, Bridesmaids), Jason Mantzoukas (The League, Lady Dynamite), Jordan Peele (Keanu, Key and Peele), Fred Armisen (Portlandia, Documentary Now!), Jenny Slate (Girls, Lady Dynamite) and Jessi Klein (Inside Amy Schumer) are among those who lend their voice to the series. Nick Kroll, Andrew Goldberg and screenwriter-directors Mark Levin & Jennifer Flackett are all creators and executive producers on the series. Dogs of Berlin (Netflix, December 7) - Tells the story of two contrasting Berlin police detectives who become a team against their will – and are forced into a territorial battle with the Berlin underworld that confronts them with their own human weaknesses and criminal activities – and into a final decision on which side of the law they’re actually on. Tell Me A Story (CBS All Access, October 31) - Takes the world's most beloved fairy tales and reimagines them as a dark and twisted psychological thriller. Set in modern-day New York City, the first season of this serialized drama interweaves "The Three Little Pigs," "Little Red Riding Hood" and "Hansel and Gretel" into an epic and subversive tale of love, loss, greed, revenge and murder. The cast includes Billy Magnussen, Kim Cattrall, Danielle Campbell, Paul Wesley, James Wolk and Dania Ramirez. Snatch: Season Two (Crackle, September 13) - The cult classic movie Snatch is now a high-stakes, high-octane Sony Crackle Original series. Get in on the heists, gangster action and rapid-fire dialogue that earned the original movie a shite-load of fans. Starring Rupert Grint (Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets), Luke Pasqualino (Battlestar Gallactica: Blood & Chrome), Lucien Laviscount (The Bye Bye Man), Marc Warren (Wanted, Hustle), Stephanie Leonidas (American Gothic), Phoebe Dynevor (Waterloo Road), Juliet Aubrey (The Infiltrator, The Constant Gardener), Tamer Hassan (Layer Cake, Kick-Ass), Dougray Scott (Mission: Impossible III, Taken 3) and Ed Westwick (Gossip Girl). Finally, Amazon has released a sizzle reel for its September slate of Prime Video releases, including classic movies like Ghostbusters and Jerry Maguire, Original series like Forever, the kids’ series Pete the Cat, and the Prime Original special King Lear starring Anthony Hopkins and Emma Thompson. Likewise, NFL Thursday Night Football is set for kick off on September 27. - A current Netflix subscription starts at $11 per month for HD streaming and $14 per month for Ultra HD streaming. - A current Hulu subscription starts at $8 per month with commercials. In addition, ad-free playback is available for $12 per month. - A current CBS All Access subscription costs $5.99 per month with reduced commercials or $9.99 per month for a commercial-free plan. - 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. - Crackle is a free digital entertainment network that offers movies, TV shows, and original content. Sources: Netflix (YouTube), Amazon (YouTube), Hulu (YouTube), Crackle (YouTube), DC via BusinessWirePosted Fri Aug 31, 2018 at 09:05 PM PDT by: -
Klipsch Releases New Reference Premiere Series Speakers[teaser]The second generation premium speaker lineup is now available.[/teaser] Klipsch has announced the launch of its updated Reference Premiere Series.The 2018 speaker collection consists of 16 models, including floorstanding speakers, bookshelf speakers, center channel speakers, surround speakers, and Dolby Atmos speakers. "We've taken the successful foundation of our best-selling speakers and enhanced them to create the hands-down, best-sounding premium speakers on the planet at these price points," said Michael Buratto, product manager for Klipsch. The second generation Reference Premiere series uses Tractrix horn technology for better high-frequency response, imaging, and dynamics. Likewise, the speakers feature Linear Travel Suspension titanium tweeters, new vented tweeters, and copper Cerametallic woofers with Tractrix ports. Here's a full rundown of pricing for each new model in the collection: RP-8060FA Dolby Atmos Floorstanding Speaker - $1,099 each RP-8000F Floorstanding Speaker - $599 each RP-6000F Floorstanding Speaker - $499 each RP-5000F Floorstanding Speaker - $374 each RP-4000F Floorstanding Speaker - $299 each RP-504C Center Channel Speaker - $649 each RP-404C Center Channel Speaker - $549 each RP-600C Center Channel Speaker - $499 each RP-500C Center Channel Speaker - $369 each RP-400C Center Channel Speaker - $299 each RP-600M Bookshelf Speakers - $549 per pair RP-500M Bookshelf Speakers - $419 per pair RP-400M Bookshelf Speakers - $419 per pair RP-502S Surround Speakers - $799 per pair RP-402S Surround Speakers - $599 per pair RP-500SA Dolby Atmos Elevation Speakers - $499 per pair The new Klipsch Reference Premiere Series is now available from select retailers in ebony, walnut, and hand-sanded piano gloss black finishes. In addition, Klipsch recently launched its updated Reference Series as well, which consists of 13 speaker models. Source: KlipschPosted Fri Aug 31, 2018 at 03:10 PM PDT by: -
Netflix Debuts Trailer for Orson Welles' Recently Completed Final Film The Other Side of the Wind[teaser]The legendary filmmaker's unfinished movie has been completed and restored.[/teaser] Netflix has released a trailer for Orson Welles’ last film, The Other Side of the Wind. The movie was first shot by Welles beginning in 1970, but has remained unfinished until now. Netflix will start streaming the film on November 2, along with a limited theatrical release. Surrounded by fans and skeptics, grizzled director J.J. "Jake" Hannaford (a revelatory John Huston) returns from years abroad in Europe to a changed Hollywood, where he attempts to make his comeback: a career summation that can only be the work of cinema's most adventurous filmmaker, Orson Welles. Check out the trailer below! "Like so many others who grew up worshipping the craft and vision of Orson Welles, this is a dream come true," said Ted Sarandos, Netflix Chief Content Officer. "The promise of being able to bring to the world this unfinished work of Welles with his true artistic intention intact, is a point of pride for me and for Netflix. Cinephiles and film enthusiasts around the world will experience the magic of Orson Welles once again or for the very first time." Producer Frank Marshall, who served as a Production Manager on the original production, oversaw the restoration and completion of the film, along with producer Filip Jan Rymsza. Likewise, Peter Bogdanovich served as a consultant for the project. "I can't quite believe it, but after 40 years of trying, I am so very grateful for the passion and perseverance from Netflix that has enabled us to, at long last, finally get into the cutting room to finish Orson’s last picture," said Frank Marshall. In advance of its streaming debut, the movie premiered today at the 75th Venice International Film Festival. In addition, the movie will play at the Telluride Film Festival in September and the New York Film Festival in October. A current Netflix subscription starts at $11 per month for HD streaming and $14 per month for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Fri Aug 31, 2018 at 12:30 PM PDT by: -
Microsoft Launches Dolby Vision Streaming Support on Xbox One S & Xbox One X[teaser]Xbox Insiders can now stream Netflix in Dolby Vision.[/teaser] Following an initial announcement last month, Microsoft has now launched Dolby Vision streaming support for Netflix on the Xbox One S and Xbox One X. The feature is now available via an Xbox Insider preview of the 1810 System Update for Alpha Skip Ahead and Alpha users. Dolby Vision is a proprietary end-to-end High Dynamic Range (HDR) format. The process uses expanded brightness to improve contrast between dark and light aspects of an image, bringing out deeper black levels and more realistic details in specular highlights -- like the sun reflecting off of an ocean -- in specially graded Dolby Vision material. Likewise, Dolby Vision also offers a Wide Color Gamut (WCG), providing a greater range of colors than those found in the previous Rec. 709 color standard. In addition, the Dolby Vision process takes advantage of dynamic metadata, allowing it to adjust brightness levels on a scene-by-scene or even frame-by-frame basis to create a more accurate HDR experience compared to static metadata formats like HDR10. For now, Xbox One S & X Dolby Vision support is limited to Netflix streaming. In order to watch Dolby Vision Netflix content through the console, users will need a display that supports the latest version of Dolby Vision (listed here) and a Netflix Premium subscription. Likewise, users need to enable Dolby Vision playback on their console in the Settings menu. The Xbox One S 1TB Starter Bundle is now available for $283. Meanwhile, the Xbox One X is now available for $486. In addition, users can now purchase an Xbox All Access Plan which offers 24-month financing for an Xbox One S or Xbox One X console along with a Game Pass and Xbox Live Gold subscription for a monthly price starting at just $22. Finally, a Netflix Premium subscription with 4K Ultra HD and HDR streaming support currently costs $14 per month. Source: Xbox WirePosted Thu Aug 30, 2018 at 09:30 PM PDT by: -
LG Unveils New 173-inch MicroLED Display & First 8K OLED TV[teaser]Two new next-gen displays have been revealed.[/teaser] LG has introduced two new display innovations at the IFA 2018 tradeshow in Berlin. The company's showcase includes a new 173-inch screen using Micro LED tech, and the world's first 8K OLED TV. "LG's first 8K OLED TV is the pinnacle of technological achievement and the next evolutionary step in display technology," said Brian Kwon, president of LG Home Entertainment Company. "4K OLED played a major role in reshaping TV industry and LG is confident that 8K OLED will do the same." The 88-inch 8K OLED features a resolution of 7680 x 4320 with over 33 million self-emitting pixels, enabling the display to produce superior contrast with true black levels and wide viewing angles. Unfortunately, beyond that, the company has not released any other details about the set. The new 8K OLED is now on display at LG's booth at IFA 2018 in Berlin from August 30 to September 5. Meanwhile, the company is also showing off a new 173-inch MicroLED display. Like Samsung's previously announced 146-inch Wall TV, LG's massive display uses an array of microscopic LEDs that form individual pixels. Likewise, the tech allows users to customize the display's screen size through a modular design. Like the 8K OLED, however, additional details are scarce and it's not yet clear whether the MicroLED display is being planned for release or if it's just a prototype. Finally, LG is highlighting the rest of its existing ThinQ 4K OLED and SUPER UHD TVs at the show as well. Likewise, the company's booth also features an impressive LG OLED Canyon made of 258 convex and concave commercial open-frame LG OLED panels displaying five beautiful landscapes -- Columbia Icefield, Iguazu Falls, Antelope Canyon, Redwood National Park, and Haleakalā. Sources: LG 1, LG 2Posted Thu Aug 30, 2018 at 01:00 PM PDT by: -
Sony Launches Pre-Orders for Master Series 4K HDR Ultra HD TVs[teaser]The company's latest premium display lineup is now available for pre-order.[/teaser] Update 9/6/18: Sony has issued a correction for some of the prices previously listed below. The correct prices are now included. Per new product listings on Best Buy, Sony has launched pre-orders for its upcoming Master Series 4K TVs with a delivery date currently estimated for September 21. The lineup includes the 55-inch A9F OLED ($3,500) and 65-inch A9F OLED ($4,500), along with the 65-inch Z9F LED ($3,500) and 75-inch Z9F LED ($6,000). The A9F and Z9F Master Series TVs both utilize Sony's next-generation Picture Processor X1 Ultimate, allowing the displays to intelligently detect and analyze each object in the picture through Sony's new Object-based Super Resolution and Object-based HDR remaster technology. In addition, the TVs also feature a new Netflix Calibrated Mode to reproduce the same picture quality as a studio evaluation master for television. In addition, the Master Series is compatible with Portrait Displays' CalMAN calibration software. Pre-order the 55-inch A9F OLED from Best Buy ($3,500) Pre-order the 55-inch A9F OLED from Amazon ($3,498) Pre-order the 65-inch A9F OLED from Best Buy ($4,500) Pre-order the 65-inch A9F OLED from Amazon ($4,498) The A9F OLED 4K HDR TV also features Sony's Pixel Contrast Booster to maximize the dynamic range of the display. In addition, the TV includes Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology, offering an integrated 3.2 channel sound system. Here's a full rundown of key specs and features per Sony: Features OLED as display device with Pixel Contrast Booster; eight million self-illuminating pixels and Sony-original panel controller for OLED brings a significantly enriched visual experience with unprecedented black, authentic color and a wide viewing angle Features Picture Processor X1™ Ultimate, providing the ultimate 4K HDR viewing experience with the following technologies: Object-based Super Resolution, Object-based HDR remaster, Super Bit Mapping™ 4K HDR and dual database processing Acoustic Surface Audio+™ creates a rich sound field delivered from three actuators and two subwoofers facing sideways, which greatly enhance the viewing experience Features Netflix Calibrated Mode that brings the creator's vision directly to the TV. CalMAN ready for professional-grade calibration Features vibrant, expanded color with TRILUMINOS™ Display, further enhanced for color accuracy Android TV with hands-free help from the Google Assistantii: Find what you want simply by talking to the TV; ask your Google Assistant to help you play TV shows, movies, and more; dim the lights and control your compatible, connected devices while you watch a movie for a better viewing experience Minimalism styled with softness: the screen being a single slate with only a stand in the back to hold it up Pre-order the 65-inch Z9F LED from Best Buy ($3,500) Pre-order the 65-inch Z9F LED from Amazon ($3,498) Pre-order 75-inch Z9F LED from Best Buy ($6,000) Pre-order 75-inch Z9F LED from Amazon ($5,998) The Z9F LED 4K HDR TV features Sony's new X-Wide Angle tech, offering better off-axis viewing with reduced color shifts. Likewise, the display uses a full array backlight with X-tended Dynamic Range PRO to dim and boost specific areas of the panel. Here's a full rundown of key specs and features per Sony: Features Picture Processor X1™ Ultimate, providing the ultimate 4K HDR viewing experience with the following technologies: Object-based Super Resolution; Object-based HDR remaster; Super Bit Mapping™ 4K HDR and dual database processing. Features X-Wide Angle that minimizes color change when seen from the side; view faithful shades and hue from wherever you watch the TV Features Full-array LED Backlight for ultra-high contrast X-Motion Clarity keeps fast action clear and smooth; moving images are precisely controlled to minimize blur and even during fast-moving scenes, pictures stay true with no loss in brightness Features Netflix Calibrated Mode that brings the creator's vision directly to the TV CalMAN ready for professional-grade calibration Includes X-tended Dynamic Range™ PRO to produce better contrast by precisely balancing the light output across the screen, dimming some areas and boosting others; it reveals a brightness range three times that of a conventional LED-backlit TV, and it enhances any source to near HDR quality with a wider range of brightness Features vibrant, expanded color with TRILUMINOS Display, further enhanced for color accuracy Android TV with hands-free help from the Google Assistantii: Find what you want simply by talking to the TV; ask your Google Assistant to help you play TV shows, movies, and more; dim the lights and control your compatible, connected devices while you watch a movie for a better viewing experience Clean cable management for tabletop mount Source: Best Buy, Sony via PR NewswirePosted Thu Aug 30, 2018 at 11:30 AM PDT by: -
Samsung Sets October Launch for Q900FN QLED 8K TV[teaser]More details have been announced for the company's upcoming 8K display.[/teaser] To coincide with the IFA 2018 tradeshow in Berlin, Samsung has fully revealed its new Q900FN QLED 8K TV. Though pricing has not been detailed yet, the 85" display is set to launch in the US in October (65", 75", and 82" screen sizes are also planned for other regions). "At Samsung, we've worked tirelessly over the years to move the industry forward when it comes to premium picture quality, and the introduction of the Q900FN with 8K AI Upscaling is an integral component as we look to the future of displays," said Jongsuk Chu, Senior Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. "We're thrilled to introduce the Q900FN to consumers and are confident that they will experience nothing short of brilliance in color, clarity and sound from our new 8K-capable models." The Q900FN features support for real 8K resolution, HDR10+ playback, and 4,000 nit peak brightness capabilities. In addition, the TV includes AI-powered 8K Upscaling technology and Samsung's 8K Quantum Processor to upscale lower resolution content from any source to 8K. Likewise, the panel offers Direct Full Array Elite local dimming for superior contrast and black levels. And like other QLED models, the TV uses quantum dot tech to provide DCI-P3 WCG support and 100% Color Volume. Meanwhile, the display also includes several lifestyle and smart features like support for Samsung's One Remote, Ambient Mode, The One Invisible Connection cable, SmartThings, and the Universal Guide. Samsung will demo its new TV and audio products at the company's IFA 2018 booth in Berlin from August 30 to September 5. Source: SamsungPosted Wed Aug 29, 2018 at 08:20 PM PDT by: -
Sonos Announces New Sonos Amp for Wired Speakers[teaser]The new home audio hub can integrate wired speakers into the Sonos wireless audio system.[/teaser] Sonos has revealed its new Sonos Amp. The device is geared toward the custom installation market and is set to launch in February 2019 for an MSRP of $599. "The growth of the Sonic Internet – the convergence of paid streaming, the smart home, and artificial intelligence through voice technologies drives everything we do at Sonos," said Sonos CEO Patrick Spence. "While plug-and-play options like Sonos Beam and Sonos One are an important part of the equation, architectural sound and making it even easier to integrate with lighting and home control are equally as important. We've listened to custom installers and dealers to create Amp, a versatile product designed to be at the center of the smart home sound experience." The Sonos Amp is designed to power up to four wired speakers and is rated for 125 Watts per channel at 8 ohms. In addition, the unit includes a subwoofer out as well. Connectivity options include an HDMI ARC input, Optical input (with an adapter), and an RCA line-in, offering support for TVs, turntables, CD players and more. Likewise, the amp can fully integrate with the Sonos wireless home audio platform with access to more than 100 streaming music services. Users can control the system via the Sonos app on a phone or tablet, TV remote, keypads, AirPlay 2, or even through voice commands with a separate Amazon Echo or Alexa-enabled device. Beyond the Sonos Amp, Sonos also recently released its new Sonos Beam. The smart sound bar features integrated Alexa support and is now available for $399. Source: SonosPosted Wed Aug 29, 2018 at 02:35 PM PDT by: -
Yamaha Details Flagship AVENTAGE CX-A5200 AV Preamp & MX-A5200 Amp[teaser]Two new Yamaha audio components have been announced.[/teaser] Yamaha has revealed the latest additions to its AVENTAGE series of home theater products. The CX-A5200 AV Preamp & MX-A5200 Amp include advanced performance feartures and Surround:AI artificial intelligence technology. "AVENTAGE represents the ultimate in home theater, and now with Surround:AI, our new artificial intelligence sound processing built into these flagship AV separates, Yamaha stands alone at the pinnacle of ultra-high-performance components," said Robert Goedken, general manager, AV division, Yamaha Corporation of America. "The new CX-A5200 and MX-A5200 represent the highest expression of the AVENTAGE concept, which combines fine craftsmanship, innovative technologies and a multitude of no-compromise design, engineering and construction refinements to produce the purest sound with unrivaled sonic realism." The CX-A5200 is an 11.2 channel pre-amp with support for up to 7.2.4-channel Dolby Atmos and DTS:X processing. In addition, the unit features two ESS SABRE PRO Premier DACs (ES9026 PRO) and a redesigned power transformer. Connectivity options include balanced XLR preamp-level inputs and outputs, seven 4K Ultra HD HDMI inputs with HDCP 2.2 copy protection and BT.2020 wide color gamut (WCG) video, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG passthrough, and three HDMI outputs. MusicCast wireless multi-room support is included as well, along with Yamaha's new Surround:AI tech. Surround:AI is able to automatically adjust audio levels in real time on a scene-by-scene basis to better match the content's specific audio characteristics. For instance, the feature can make dialogue easier to hear in scenes with a lot of background noise. Finally, the MX-A5200 11-Channel Amplifier is designed to be paired with the CX-A5200, offering 150 watts per channel (8 ohms, 20Hz - 20kHz, 0.06% THD, 2 channels driven). The unit features high quality components, including a high-output toroidal transformer and two specially developed high-capacity block capacitors. Yamaha's CX-A5200 AV preamplifier is set to launch in September for an MSRP of $2,699.95. Meanwhile, the MX-A5200 amplifier is set to launch in December for an MSRP of $2,899.95. Source: YamahaPosted Wed Aug 29, 2018 at 01:10 PM PDT by:
