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Denon & Marantz Reveal First 13.2 Channel Receiver & Pre-Amplifier[teaser]The new audio components can support up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 immersive audio setups.[/teaser] Denon and Marantz have announced their first 13.2 channel audio components. The collection includes the Denon AVR-X8500H receiver and the Marantz AV8805 pre-amplifier. The flagship Denon AVR-X8500H is a 13.2 channel AV receiver with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support for up to a 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 speaker configuration with as many as 6 overhead or up-firing speakers. In addition, the unit will also add Auro-3D support for up to 13.2 channels via a future firmware upgrade for no extra cost. And when it comes to video passthrough, the device offers HDCP 2.2 compatibility with support for Ultra HD 60Hz video, 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling, HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG, 21:9 video, 3D, and BT.2020. The full Audyssey Platinum suite of advanced DSP algorithms are integrated as well, along with Audyssey MultEQ XT32 automatic room acoustic correction through an included microphone. Finally, the receiver features HEOS technology with Amazon Alexa capabilities for wireless whole-home audio and voice control. Meanwhile, the Marantz AV8805 is a pre-amplifier with 13.2 channel processing support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D (via firmware update), along with 15.2 channel XLR and RCA outputs. The unit features192kHz/32bit D/A converters for all channels and the latest Marantz proprietary HDAM (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module) components. Likewise, 4K/60 Hz full-rate pass-through, 4:4:4 color resolution, HDR, BT.2020, Dolby Vision and HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) pass-through are all supported as well. In addition, the pre-amp offers Audyssey MultEQ XT32 automatic room acoustic correction and HEOS technology with Amazon Alexa. An exact release date for the new Denon AVR-X8500H 13.2 Channel Receiver and the Marantz AV8805 13.2 Channel Pre-Amplifier have not been specified, but the Denon AVR-X8500H is set to carry an MSRP of $3,999 and the Marantz AV8805 is set to carry an MSRP of $4,499. Sources: Denon, MarantzPosted Tue Jan 9, 2018 at 02:30 PM PST by: -
Klipsch Announces Heritage Wireless Speakers with Google Assistant[teaser]New wireless speakers have been revealed.[/teaser] Klipsch has announced Google Assistant integration for its upcoming next-gen Heritage Wireless Speakers. The collection will include new editions of the Three and the One. The Three Klipsch Heritage Wireless speaker is a stereo tabletop model with an integrated subwoofer for enhanced bass performance. Meanwhile, The One Klipsch Heritage Wireless is a smaller, semi-portable tabletop model with a rechargeable battery, giving users more freedom on where to place the unit. And with Google Assistant integration, both speakers will allow users to get information, stream music, receive news weather and traffic, create shopping lists, control smart devices, make phone calls, and more. In addition, both models feature a mid-century modern design with real wood veneer, copper switches and knobs, and Bluetooth wireless connectivity. The Three Klipsch Heritage Wireless speaker with Google Assistant is set to launch this fall for an MSRP of $499. Meanwhile, The One with the Google Assistant is expected to arrive in in the spring of 2019 for an MSRP $349). Beyond the new Google Assistant speakers, Klipsch is also currently showcasing several other Heritage and Heritage-inspired products at CES 2018 in Las Vegas from January 9-12. The show's lineup includes the Klipschorn, Cornwall, and Forte speakers; The Sixes wireless speakers; the new Heritage Theater Bar; and the HP-3 headphones. The HP-3 features a semi-open design along with a recessed pair of free-edge 52mm biodynamic drivers that are designed to mimic the imaging qualities of Klipsch Heritage speakers. Each unit is hand-assembled with solid-wood, triple-vented ear cups, angled sheepskin ear pads, and a genuine hand-stitched cowhide headband. Source: KlipschPosted Tue Jan 9, 2018 at 11:30 AM PST by: -
Sony Preps New $30,000 4K Ultra Short Throw Projector[teaser]The company's latest Ultra HD project has been revealed.[/teaser] Sony has announced the newest product in its Life Space UX line. The LSPX-A1 is a 4K Ultra Short Throw Projector with a unique Glass Sound Speaker solution. "We are pleased to launch an exciting new product from Life Space UX. The new 4K Ultra Short Throw Projector LSPX-A1 will transform your living environment with stunning 4K visuals and crystal clear sound while seamlessly blending into your living room with its furniture-like design. Life Space UX will continue to innovate and deliver 'wow' moments like these", says Hiroshi Saito, Deputy Division Head of TS Business Division, who leads the Life Space UX team in Tokyo. The projector uses Sony's 4K SXRD and HDR technology to offer a native 4K resolution (4096 x 2160). Thanks to its ultra short throw capabilities, the device is able to project up to a 120-inch image with 2500 lumens of brightness from just 9.6 inches from the wall. In addition, the unit incorporates a Glass Sound Speaker system that uses Advanced Vertical Drive Technology to create 360 degree audio by vibrating two organic glass tweeters installed on the front legs. A separate subwoofer and three midrange speakers also bolster sound throughout the room, including a center speaker positioned in the rear of the device to reflect sound off the wall. Finally, the projector features a premium design with an engineered marble top, half mirror finished aluminum frame, and wooden shelf. Sony's LSPX-A1 4K Ultra Short Throw Projector is set to launch this Spring with a estimated price of around $30,000. The device will be demoed at Sony Square NYC starting January 23. Source: SonyPosted Tue Jan 9, 2018 at 10:00 AM PST by: -
Sony Expands CS Series Speaker Lineup with New Dolby Atmos Modules[teaser]A new Dolby Atmos-enabled speaker has been detailed.[/teaser] Sony has announced the latest addition to its CS Series speaker collection. The upcoming SS-CSE Dolby Atmos enabled speakers are designed to sit on top of the previously released SS-CS3 floor standing speakers and SS-CS5 bookshelf speakers. Equipped with a compact, angled design and up-firing drivers, the SS-CSE Dolby Atmos enabled speakers are capable of reflecting sound off of a user's ceiling in order to simulate overhead audio effects used on Dolby Atmos and DTS:X soundtracks. In addition, the units feature an MDF cabinet, 10cm full range speaker system, a Mica Reinforced Cellular cone, a Maximum Input Power of 100W per channel, and a frequency range of 70Hz-32000Hz. Though the SS-CSE speakers have been designed with Sony's CS Series models in mind, the modules can be placed on top of any existing floor-standing or bookshelf speakers. Likewise, customers can also opt to mount the speakers to a wall for Dolby Atmos or surround sound use. Pricing has not been announced yet, but Sony's SS-CSE Dolby Atmos enabled speakers are set to launch this spring. The units will join the company's existing CS Series of speakers: - SS-CS3 — Floor standing speaker ($199.99 MSRP)- SS-CS5 — Bookshelf Speakers ($149.99 MSRP)- SS-CS8 — Center Channel Speaker, ($149.99 MSRP)- SA-CS9 — Active Subwoofer, ($199.99 MSRP) In addition to the new Dolby Atmos speakers, Sony also recently announced its premium 2018 4K OLED & LCD lineup, a new 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player, and several new AV receivers, including a 7.2 channel model with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support. The company is currently showcasing its latest gear CES 2018 in Las Vegas from January 9-12. Source: SonyPosted Tue Jan 9, 2018 at 09:00 AM PST by: -
NVIDIA Introduces 65-inch 4K HDR "BFGD" Gaming Displays[teaser]PC gaming monitors are getting supersized this summer.[/teaser] NVIDIA has announced its new line of Big Format Gaming Displays, or BFGDs for short. The upcoming big-screen monitors incorporate high-end 65-inch, 4K 120Hz HDR displays, NVIDIA G-SYNC technology, and NVIDIA SHIELD media player capabilities into one immersive gaming and entertainment solution. "PC gamers expect high performance and instant response times, but, until now, they've been largely limited to traditional desktop displays," said Matt Wuebbling, head of GeForce marketing at NVIDIA. "BFGDs change that. With NVIDIA's latest technology built into these new displays, PC gamers can now experience their favorite titles in all the low-latency glory they deserve." NVIDIA BFGDs have been developed in collaboration with hardware partners Acer, ASUS, and HP. The displays feature 65-inch 4K HDR screens with full-array direct backlights, 1,000-nit peak luminance, and support for the DCI-P3 color gamut. In addition, the panels use NVIDIA G-SYNC HDR technology to synchronize the screen's 120Hz refresh rate to that of the game being played, enabling a highly responsive, smooth, tear-free experience. And beyond gaming capabilities, the displays also incorporate the Android TV-based SHIELD for access to streaming apps like Netflix, Amazon Video, YouTube, and Hulu, along with Google Assistant support for voice control. A SHIELD remote and game controller are bundled with the monitor as well. Pricing has not been announced yet, but the first BFGDs from Acer, ASUS, and HP are set to launch this summer. Source: NVIDIAPosted Tue Jan 9, 2018 at 08:00 AM PST by: -
Sony Unveils New Dolby Vision 4K Blu-ray Player & 7.2 Ch AV Receiver[teaser]Several new AV products have been revealed.[/teaser] Sony has announced the UBP-X700, its first Dolby Vision compatible 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player. In addition, the company has also detailed its new STR-DH790 AV Receiver with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support. The UBP-X700 is a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player model with support for high dynamic range via the HDR10 and Dolby Vision formats. Likewise, the device includes access to several 4K streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube. In addition, the player is compatible with a wide array of video and audio formats, including MP4, DSD, FLAC, and more. Meanwhile, the STR-DH790 is a 7.2 channel AV receiver with support for 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X setups. The device also features an Advanced D.C.A.C (Digital Cinema Auto Calibration) automatic speaker setup system, which uses a provided microphone and a series of test tones to configure speaker levels based on the acoustical properties of a user's room. In addition, the receiver includes Dolby Vision and HDR10 passthrough support. And for users looking for a more entry-level model, Sony also announced its new STR-DH590 5.2 channel 4K HDR AV Receiver, which also offers passthrough support for HDR10 and Dolby Vision, and its STR-DH190 2ch Receiver with Bluetooth standby capabilities, phono inputs, and four analog audio inputs. Pricing has not been detailed yet, but the Sony UBP-X700 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Player is set to launch later this month. The Sony STR-DH790 7.2ch 4K HDR AV Receiver, STR-DH590 5.2ch 4K HDR AV Receiver, and STR-DH190 2ch Receiver will then follow in Spring 2018. Source: SonyPosted Tue Jan 9, 2018 at 07:00 AM PST by: -
TCL Debuts Alto Roku Smart Sound Bar[teaser]The first Roku smart sound bar has been announced.[/teaser] TCL has revealed the first product in its new Alto line of audio devices. The upcoming Roku Smart Sound Bar is set for release later this year and will use the new Roku Connect whole home entertainment platform. "A complete home theater experience includes high quality audio," said Aaron Dew, Director of Product Development, TCL. "TCL's vast capabilities in audio combined with our vertical integration will enable us to deliver the same premium experience in the Alto family as we have with our televisions." Though full specs have not been announced yet, the Roku Smart Sound Bar will use Roku Connect to pair with other compatible AV products for a whole home entertainment solution. Likewise, the device will incorporate the Roku Entertainment Assistant to enable voice control support. In addition, if users pair the sound bar with a TCL Roku TV, voice control can then be extended to the display. For instance, customers will be able to turn their TVs own by simply asking the sound bar to play specific video content. "Our TCL Roku TVs are amazingly popular among consumers, making the TCL brand the 3rd most popular smart TV in the US in 2017. We’re doubling down on our partnership with Roku to offer our customers an easy way to add premium sound and enhanced functionality to a TCL Roku TV," said Chris Larson, Senior Vice President, TCL. "TCL is dedicated to integrating leading technologies into our entertainment product portfolio and by partnering with Roku we’re bringing a better home theater experience to our consumers." Pricing and exact availability for TCL's Alto Roku Sound Bar have not been revealed at this time, but the device is set to arrive in late 2018. In addition to the new audio product, TCL also recently announced its latest lineup of Roku 4K Ultra HD TVs at CES. Source: TCL via BusinessWirePosted Tue Jan 9, 2018 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
Sony Details 2018 OLED & LCD 4K Ultra HD TVs[teaser]New LCD and OLED 4K TVs have been revealed.[/teaser] Sony has detailed its 2018 lineup of premium 4K Ultra HD TVs. The collection includes the A8F Series OLED, and the X900F LCD. "Our OLED TVs have been extremely well received by bringing exceptional picture and sound quality together and the X900E has been amongst our most popular LED TVs." said Mike Fasulo, President and COO of Sony Electronics, North America. "Building on the great successes of the X900 and OLED TV series, we are further expanding the choices for consumers by introducing the new X900F LED and A8F OLED TV models." The A8F Series 4K Ultra HD OLED TV will be available in 55-inch and 65-inch screen sizes. The display uses a 4K OLED panel and features Sony's TRILUMINOS tech and 4K HDR picture Processor X1 Extreme, along with support for HDR10 and Dolby Vision playback. In addition, the set uses Acoustic Surface technology to create audio from the screen itself. Android TV with Google Assistant is integrated as well. Meanwhile, the new X900F LCD 4K Ultra HD TV series will be available in 49-inch, 55-inch, 65-inch, 75-inch, and 85-inch screen sizes. The display uses Sony's TRILUMINOS tech and X1 Extreme processor, along with support for HDR10 and Dolby Vision playback. In addition, the TV features direct LED panel local dimming and new X-Motion Clarity tech to help keep fast motion smooth. Android TV with Google Assistant is integrated as well. Pricing and availability for Sony's new A8F Series and X900F Series 4K Ultra HD TVs have not been announced yet. Here's a detailed rundown of specs and features for each model per Sony: A8F Series (65”, and 55” Class model) BRAVIA OLED 4K HDR TV - 8 million self-illuminating OLED pixels brings a significantly enriched visual experience with unprecedented black, rich color, and a wide viewing angle. - Features Acoustic Surface technology: the entire screen resonates with great sound emanating directly from the screen itself. This allows a perfect unification of picture and sound that conventional TVs cannot deliver. - Features 4K HDR Processor X1 Extreme providing the ultimate 4K HDR viewing experience by incorporating three new technologies: Object-based HDR remaster, Super Bit Mapping™ 4K HDR and Dual database processing. - Features vibrant, expanded color with TRILUMINOS™ Display, further enhanced for color accuracy. - Uses 4K X-Reality™ PRO to produce stunning detail with Sony’s unique algorithm of reality creation database for any content, such as TV broadcasting, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, Internet video and digital photos. - The minimalist design: A8F series has a clean, minimalist design that keeps you focused on what’s important – the picture. - Android TV with Google Assistant built-in: Find what you want quickly, simply by talking. Ask your Google Assistant to help you play TV shows, movies, and more. Dim the lights and control your connected devices while you watch a movie for a better viewing experience. - Hands-free control of a Sony TV with Amazon-Alexa-enabled devices and Google Home. Sony’s Android TV works with Amazon Alexa to play, pause, fast forward, and rewind. Google Home allows you to find the entertainment you want without lifting a finger. - HDR compatible, including support for Dolby Vision, to receive and process the new video standard signal with higher brightness, higher contrast and more vibrant colors via Internet video services and HDMI. X900F Series (85’’, 75”, 65”, 55”, and 49” Class models) 4K HDR TV - Features 4K HDR Processor X1 Extreme providing the ultimate 4K HDR viewing experience by incorporating three new technologies: Object-based HDR remaster, Super Bit Mapping 4K HDR and Dual database processing. - X-tended Dynamic Range PRO 6x. It enhances HDR and non-HDR content by boosting and dimming the backlight levels precisely for each zone of the screen with a unique backlighting technology. (6 times XDR contrast[1]). - X-Motion Clarity. It keeps fast action smooth and clear. Moving images are precisely controlled to minimize blur. Even during fast-moving scenes, pictures stay true with no loss in brightness. - Features vibrant, expanded color with TRILUMINOS Display, further enhanced for color accuracy. - Uses 4K X-Reality PRO to produce stunning detail with Sony’s unique algorithm of reality creation database for any content, such as TV broadcasting, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, Internet video and digital photos. - Designed to perfectly match the HT-X9000F sound bar, complement outstanding pictures with immersive, powerful sound. - Android TV with Google Assistant built-in: Find what you want quickly, simply by talking. Ask your Google Assistant to help you play TV shows, movies, and more. Dim the lights and control your connected devices while you watch a movie for a better viewing experience. - Hands-free control of a Sony TV with Amazon-Alexa-enabled devices and Google Home. Sony’s Android TV works with Amazon Alexa to play, pause, fast forward, and rewind. Google Home allows you to find the entertainment you want without lifting a finger. - HDR compatible to receive and process the new video standard signal with higher brightness, higher contrast and more vibrant colors via Internet video services and HDMI. Supports Dolby Vision HDR format. Source: SonyPosted Mon Jan 8, 2018 at 05:30 PM PST by: -
Panasonic Announces First 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Players with HDR10+[teaser]Four new Ultra HD Blu-ray players have been detailed.[/teaser] Panasonic has revealed its latest lineup of Ultra HD Blu-ray players, including two models with support for the new HDR10+ format. The collection is comprised of the DP-UB820, DP-UB420, DP-UB330 and DP-UB320 series. All fours players use Panasonic's proprietary HCX (Hollywood Cinema Experience) processor and include a 4K Direct Chroma Up-scaling feature, an HDR to SDR conversion option to optimize tone remapping on SDR-TVs, HDR adjustments for different viewing conditions, and high resolution audio playback. In addition, the flagship DP-UB820 and DP-UB420 will add HDR10+ support through a software update, along with planned support for voice control via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Likewise, the premium DP-UB820 also includes Dolby Vision capabilities and a 7.1-channel analog audio output. Pricing and availability for Panasonic's new 4K Blu-ray player lineup has not been announced yet. Here's a more detailed rundown of specs and features for each model per Panasonic: DP-UB820 Ultra HD Blu-ray Player ● Ultra HD Blu-ray Playback (4K/HDR) ● HCX (Hollywood Cinema Experience) Processor for Ultra HD Blu-ray Player ● Supports HDR10+/ Dolby VisionTM dynamic metadata technology*1 ● 4K High-Precision Chroma Processing ● 4K Direct Chroma Up-scaling ● 4K 60p/50p/4:4:4 Output ● HDR Optimizer ● FULL HD 3D Blu-ray DiscTM Playback ● 7.1ch Analogue Audio Output ● TWIN HDMI PURE AV (Twin Isolated Output） ● High Clarity Sound Premium ● HDMI Low Clock Jitter Process ● Digital Tube Sound with Up-sampling ● High-resolution Audio Playback (DSD (11.2MHz/2.8MHz/5.6MHz), ALAC, FLAC, WAV, AIFF) ● 192kHz/96kHz Surround Re-master ● Viewing Experience Controlled via Voice ● 4K VOD*1 *2 ● 4K Networking (4K Video/ 4K Jpeg Playback) ● Internet Apps*2 ● DLNA (Client/Renderer) ● Network Drive Access ● External HDD Playback ● Mirroring with Smartphone / Tablet ● Web Browser*2 ● Wireless LAN Built-in ● Stylish GUI ● Quick Start ● Home Screen Wallpaper ● Control by HDMI Connection *1 Enabled by software update *2 Requires broadband Internet service. DP-UB420 Ultra HD Blu-ray Player ● Ultra HD Blu-ray Playback (4K/HDR) ● HCX (Hollywood Cinema Experience) Processor for Ultra HD Blu-ray Player ● Supports HDR10+ dynamic metadata technology*1 ● 4K High-Precision Chroma Processing ● 4K Direct Chroma Up-scaling ● 4K 60p/50p/4:4:4 Output ● HDR Optimizer ● FULL HD 3D Blu-ray DiscTM Playback ● TWIN HDMI PURE AV (Twin Isolated Output） ● High Clarity Sound Premium ● HDMI Low Clock Jitter Process ● Digital Tube Sound with Up-sampling ● High-resolution Audio Playback (DSD (11.2MHz/2.8MHz/5.6MHz), ALAC, FLAC, WAV, AIFF) ● 192kHz/96kHz Surround Re-master ● Viewing Experience Controlled via Voice ● 4K VOD*1*2 ● 4K Networking (4K Video/ 4K Jpeg Playback) ● Internet Apps*2 ● DLNA (Client/Renderer) ● Network Drive Access ● External HDD Playback ● Mirroring with Smartphone / Tablet ● Web Browser*2 ● Wireless LAN Built-in ● Stylish GUI ● Quick Start ● Home Screen Wallpaper ● Control by HDMI Connection *1 Enabled by software update *2 Requires broadband Internet service. DP-UB330/320 Ultra HD Blu-ray Players ● Ultra HD Blu-ray Playback (4K/HDR) ● HCX(Hollywood Cinema Experience) Processor for Ultra HD Blu-ray Player ● 4K High-Precision Chroma Processing ● 4K Direct Chroma Up-scaling ● 4K 60p/50p/4:4:4 Output ● FULL HD 3D Blu-ray DiscTM Playback ● HDMI Low Clock Jitter Process ● High-resolution Audio Playback (DSD (2.8MHz/5.6MHz), ALAC, FLAC, WAV, AIFF) ● 4K VOD Supported*1*2 ● 4K Networking (4K Video/ 4K Jpeg Playback) ● Internet Apps*2 ● DLNA (Client/Renderer) ● Network Drive Access ● External HDD Playback ● Web Browser*2 ● Wireless LAN Built-in*3 ● Stylish GUI ● Quick Start ● Home Screen Wallpaper ● Control by HDMI Connection *1 Enabled by software update *2 Requires broadband Internet service. *3 Except the UB320. Source: PanasonicPosted Mon Jan 8, 2018 at 03:35 PM PST by: -
TCL Reveals 2018 4K Roku Ultra HD TV Lineup with Dolby Vision[teaser]The company's newest 4K displays will launch this Spring.[/teaser] TCL has detailed its upcoming 2018 4K Roku Ultra HD TV lineup. The collection will include the 6-Series and the 5-Series, with sizes ranging from 43-inches to 65-inches. "This year, TCL is really pushing the boundaries when it comes to what kind of viewing experience consumers should expect from their TVs and sound systems. We're working smarter throughout the company and with our partners to make sure people understand that there’s a whole new level of home entertainment out there within reach,” said Chris Larson, Senior Vice President, TCL North America. "As we continue to innovate, we’re able to produce televisions engineered with features that maximize technologies which already exist in our sets like Dolby Vision and the Roku OS to deliver outstanding performance at an incredible value." The flagship 55-inch and 65-inch 6-Series displays will feature Dolby Vision and HDR10 support, along with the Roku OS smart TV platform. In addition, the sets use Contrast Control Zone Technology with 96 dimming zones on the 55-inch model and 120 zones on the 65-inch model. Likewise, the panels use NBP Photon technology with LED phosphors to provide Wide Color Gamut support. A new iPQ Engine is being implemented as well to maximize coverage of the DCI-P3 gamut and provide accurate color settings right out of the box. An HDR Pro Gamma feature is also offered to maintain details in dark and bright scenes regardless of a room's lighting conditions. Finally, the 6-Series will feature a bold, brushed metal finish. Meanwhile, the step-down 5-Series will be available in 43-inch, 49-inch, 55-inch, and 65-inch models. This series will also incorporate Dolby Vision and HDR10 support, along with the Roku smart TV platform, wide color gamut capabilities, the new iPQ Engine, and HDR Pro Gamma feature. And though the 5-Series does not include Contrast Control Zone Technology, TCL mentions an HDR Dynamic Contrast feature. Pricing has not been announced yet, but TCL's 2018 6-Series and 5-Series 4K Roku Ultra HD TVs are set to launch this Spring. Source: TCL via BusinessWirePosted Mon Jan 8, 2018 at 02:30 PM PST by:
