Casio EXILIM EX-FS10 Review by Jenafer Roy

With the invention of the digital camera whole new worlds opened up for my husband and me. Jeff bought our first digital camera and was so excited. Frankly, so was I. The thought of being able to almost instantly print out pictures, not having to spend money on printing out the ones that hadn’t turned out right, was almost intoxicating. And that was when the dilemma started. Jeff had always preferred to have a camera that was as advanced as we could afford. I had no problem with this in theory, but in reality, it translated into a bigger, bulkier camera then I felt comfortable with, a dSLR. I found myself not using our camera as often as I had previously, then the Casio Exilm ex-fs10 came into my life.

This camera included everything I wanted, with the added benefit of also not making my husband want to pull all his hair out. So, I’ll go through the expectations. It’s small. This is important to me. I need to be able to drop it into my purse and go. Often, I will just leave it in my purse so that when I showed up at my daughter’s student of the week assembly after spending several hours grocery shopping and running other errands, I could still snap pictures of her beaming from the stage as they handed her a computer generated certificate and unsharpened pencil. In the past, I have forgotten to bring a camera with me so these moments weren’t being recorded. The Exilm also has a large view screen. I can easily see exactly what my picture looks like. The only problem is that it’s too fast in saving to the memory card. I don’t have enough time to delete before it saves but that’s only a small nuisance. Another of the features that I really enjoy is the ease of use. I can fill my 4 gig card at family events, come home, pop the card into my computer and download the pictures in no time at all. For those of you without a card slot on your PC, it does come with a cord for equally easy downloading. I even used the video function at my daughter’s preschool Halloween parade. The video wasn’t smooth and seamless, in fact it was a bit choppy and disjointed, but it did capture the event for posterity. And I figured out the video for the next time, so I now have my daughters twirling and singing seamlessly. It’s even got a cord so that you can pop the video up on the TV almost instantly for all to see and hear.

As for its other very wonderful features, this camera captures at 9.1 megapixels and has a 3X optical zoom. It’s fully compatible with all our computers (and we have 5 in the house!) and even has a built in flash. It’s very easy to use, omitting the viewfinder in favor of the larger viewing screen and has a built in timer and everything. If I felt so inclined I could even have attached it to our tripod.

I did have one initial complaint. It’s really the only thing I could find wrong with this camera. I was trying to capture a picture of my six year old swinging I my mother’s backyard and noticed that I would snap the picture and it wouldn’t actually capture the image for a second or so. Then my husband pointed out burst mode. This is when you push the button and it takes thirty or so very quick pictures in a two or three second span. Not all of the pictures are keepers, but you can usually find at least one that is good. I used this feature when capturing my five kids with Santa. Between the eight year old putting up rabbit ears, the four year olds fidgeting, and the thirteen year old eye rolling, I credit this camera for the successful happy picture. If I squint just right, I can even pretend that my kids are the angels they appear in that shot!
I truly love my new little toy and highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for one. For around $199, it’s a great buy.

For more info and complete specs, check out Casio’s website at http://www.casio.com/products/Cameras/EXILIM_High-Speed/EX-FS10BE/content/Technical_Specs/

New JVC iPod Dock Features Dolby Virtual Surround

NEW UNIQUELY-DESIGNED JVC iPOD® DOCK FEATURES DOLBY VIRTUAL SURROUND


New JVC XS-SR3 “personal theater” holds iPod’s vertically or horizontally.

WAYNE, NJ, December 16, 2009 – A new JVC iPod® speaker system features a unique wraparound design, Dolby Virtual Surround, and a dock that like most docks holds an iPod vertically for music listening, but also can cradle it horizontally – ideal for widescreen viewing of video.

The new JVC XS-SR3 surround dock is a sleek, glossy black speaker tube with a curved design that allows the iPod to nestle between the speakers. The iPod holder rotates for viewing video in widescreen mode and comes with four clips to hold selected iPod models. The speakers’ powerful neodymium magnets ensure clean, crisp sound, while Dolby Virtual Surround creates the illusion of a wider sound field when viewing video content. Power output is five watts and the system features two audio inputs, one analog and one digital optical. A remote control is included.

In addition to its function as an iPod speaker dock, the XS-SR3 can also be used as computer speaker system.

The JVC XS-SR3 is available this month for $149.95.

About JVC U.S.A.
JVC U.S.A., headquartered in Wayne, New Jersey, is a division of JVC Americas Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Victor Company of Japan Ltd. JVC distributes a complete line of video and audio equipment for the consumer and professional markets. For further product information, visit JVC’s Web site at http://www.jvc.com or call 1-800-526-5308.

JVC LAUNCHES DUAL WIRELESS AND SUPER-SLIM SOUNDBAR SYSTEMS

JVC LAUNCHES DUAL WIRELESS AND SUPER-SLIM SOUNDBAR SYSTEMS

New TH-BA3 includes wireless rear speakers; TH-BS7 features a slender soundbar and slim, wall-mountable amplifier.

WAYNE, NJ, December 14, 2009 – JVC today introduced a pair of soundbar home theater systems, offering consumers a home theater sound solution to meet a range of budgets and needs. Among the two new systems is the world’s first dual wireless soundbar system that features a wireless subwoofer and wireless surround speakers. The other is highlighted by a super-slim soundbar and a thin, wall-mountable amplifier.

JVC’s new dual wireless soundbar system is the TH-BA3, a 280-watt, 5.1-channel surround sound system that includes a sound bar, wireless subwoofer and wireless rear speaker kit comprised of wireless left and right surround speakers and a wireless receiver. The sound bar contains four speakers – one each for the left and right main channels and two for the center channel. Also built into the sound bar is the power amplifier, surround decoding, system controls and the transmitter for the wireless surround speakers. It offers one analog and two optical digital inputs and decodes Dolby Digital, DTS and Dolby ProLogic II surround signals.

The new JVC TH-BS7 system is designed to match the slimmest of flat panel HDTVs. It includes a sliver of a soundbar that measures just 1.4 inches (36mm) tall, an even slimmer wall-mountable amplifier/control unit and a wireless subwoofer.

The 180-watt, 4.1-channel TH-BS7 owes its slim design to JVC’s own Direct Drive speaker technology that uses a unique voice coil design and strong neodymium magnets to deliver outstanding sound quality and a broad soundfield from a super-slim speaker. The design allows the TH-BS7’s soundbar to boast a frequency range of 200 - 20,000 Hz that falls to just 200 – 10,000 Hz at 360 degrees off-axis. The soundbar features four JVC Direct Drive speakers – left and right main channels and left and right surround channels – each driven by 20 watts. The two surround channels are processed using JVC’s Front Surround technology to provide a surround sound effect without the need for rear speakers.

Complementing the slim design of the soundbar is the system’s amplifier/control unit. It measures just 1.2 inches deep and can be wall mounted. It decodes Dolby Digital, DTS and Dolby Pro Logic II, and offers one analog and three optical digital inputs. The system’s wireless subwoofer features a six-inch woofer powered by a 100-watt amplifier.

Pricing and availability:

About JVC U.S.A.

JVC U.S.A., headquartered in Wayne, New Jersey, is a division of JVC Americas Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Victor Company of Japan Ltd. JVC distributes a complete line of video and audio equipment for the consumer and professional markets.

For further product information, visit JVC’s Web site at http://www.jvc.com/ or call 1-800-526-5308.

Wireworld Introduces New Platinum Starlight HDMI Cable

For those of you looking to upgrade your cables and looking for the best, your checkbook may see a couple more zero's than you are used to. Wireworld's new top-of-the line cable is $1,000 for a 1m cable.

COOPER CITY, FL (12/8/09) -- Wireworld, which debuted the world's first upgrade HDMI cables in 2004, has introduced a new flagship HDMI cable that delivers the highest levels of performance the company has ever offered. The Platinum Starlight HDMI cable features molded carbon fiber connectors, the company's unique new 24-conductor DNA Helix™ design with solid silver conductors, and high-speed/high-bandwidth capabilities to meet even the most stringent system requirements - including the new HDMI v1.4 High Speed with Ethernet specification. MSRP for the Platinum Starlight is $1,000 for a 1.0 meter cable.

“Now that Blu-Ray players are the primary source for both movies and music in home theater systems," comments Wireworld President and founder David Salz, "the HDMI cable connecting the player to the system has become the most important audio cable in the entire system. The Platinum Starlight HDMI cable addresses the need to provide the highest possible audio and video fidelity in high end home theater installations.”

The Platinum Starlight HDMI cable employs Wireworld's new, patent-pending DNA Helix conductor design, which uses 24 solid silver conductors -- double that of conventional HDMI designs -- arranged with an innovative symmetrical geometry designed to neutralize impedance variations at every point along the cable's length. These advancements maximize available speed and bandwidth for the signal path while also reducing noise and jitter effects for substantial overall improvements in signal fidelity and dynamic response. The cable is capable of transfer rates of up to 21 Gbits per second, far exceeding the HDMI group's recently announced v1.4 High Speed with Ethernet specification of 10.2 Gbits per second.

Platinum Starlight HDMI cables will be available in February of 2010 in lengths ranging from 0.3 meter to 30 meters. Retail pricing for a 1.0 meter cable is $1,000.

Wireworld Cable Technology, which was founded by renowned designer David Salz in 1992, is the premier provider of leading edge digital and analog cable technology for home audio and video, from HDMI and Displayport technologies to state of the art high-end interconnects and speaker cables. The company has an unmatched reputation for producing superior cables based on the use of objective perceptual testing, innovative patented designs, premium materials, and exceptional manufacturing quality.

For more information, visit: http://www.wireworldcable.com/ or call 954-680-3848.

New LCOS projector CF181D from LG

LG pulls a surprise with a new LCOS front projector with $2499 street price. The specs look rather impressive for the price.

• 1080P
• LCOS panel
• 35,000:1 contrast ratio
• 1,800 lumens
• 120Hz FI
• HQV Certified
• ISF Certified
• 2 year warranty

Flatwire Speaker Wire Review

finished wall

speaker boxes

wire on wall (pre plaster)

With the introduction of Dolby Prologic IIz, there are now two additional speakers: front height. Whether you want to add wiring to your theater room for these 2 extra speakers, or want to add wiring for a full 5.1 or 7.1 home theater system you are now building, there could be a question on how. My first system years ago involved running speaker wire up the walls all around the room. I did it in a way that was not too noticeable and fortunately my wife did not object too much. But it was still not ideal and was still noticeable.

Now there is an option. Enter a company called Flatwire. The product is just as it sounds. Flatwire is a speaker wire that is thinner than a business card, and is designed to go right on your wall. You can get the product in a kit, which includes the wire, spray on glue, and cloth mesh tape. Once installed, the wire is unnoticeable. But you will want to know a bit about construction, or get some help.

If you know what you are doing, the install is not too difficult. You will want to follow the instructions step by step. In a nutshell, you start by spraying glue onto your wall to hold the Flatwire. Once dry, you apply the mesh tape and mud to cover it up. After some sanding and a second coat of mud and some additional sanding, you are ready for the texture. After the texture is done you are ready to paint. Once done, you will never know there is speaker wire under there. My install looks great, and they sound great too! I could not be happier. For more info, check out their website at: http://www.flatwireready.com/

Epson Develops World's First 4K Compatible HTPS TFT Liquid Crystal Panel for 3LCD Projectors

Epson has developed he 1st 4K compatible HTPS TFT Liquid Crystal Panel for 3LCD Projectors. It will probably take a couple of years to make it's way into consumer models. Well, the timing is about right. After several generations of 1080P, what used to be top of the line quality can now almost be reached by the new generation of $1,000 projectors. Maybe this will be the panel used in the new Epson LCD projectors three years from now? I'm hoping it is LED as well. At 4X the resolution of 1080P, it should look pretty amazing. For more info, check out the full release at:

http://www.epson.co.jp/e/newsroom/2009/news_20091109.htm

To Dolby IIz Or Not To Dolby IIz, The New Question.

To Dolby IIz or not to Dolby IIz, that is the new question. There is a new surround sound contender, but let’s first discuss the history of Dolby surround sound. We did not used to have all the surround sound speakers that we have today. More is always better (supposedly) and that has been the route taken with surround sound. It is the route still taken today, with the desire for bigger and better.

It all started with mono. Just a single speaker or signal was all we used to hear. For ages that was all we had in sound reproduction. Then in the 50’s we got an upgrade to two speakers in the form of stereo. Stereo was all the craze back then. For decades that was the best we had.

Then in the 70’s came movies like Star Wars and Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and with it came the introduction of surround sound. This was thanks to the company we know and would all become familiar with- Dolby. Dolby Surround had emerged. Elevating the number of speakers to three it was the first innovation since stereo, and the first true surround sound format. The speakers were front left, front right, a phantom center channel created from the front left and right speakers (but not a discrete channel), and a single rear speaker for surround. For many years everyone was happy.

Next in the 80’s came Dolby Pro Logic. What it added was an additional speaker. We now had an actual speaker for the center channel. In the 90’s Dolby up’s the anti with Dolby AC-3 or more commonly known as Dolby Digital. Now we had the traditional 5.1 channels that we are all familiar with: Front left, front right, center, rear right, rear left, and subwoofer. Not only did we now have 5.1 channels, but they were also discrete. That meant that if a helicopter in a movie flew over from the front left to the rear right, you would hear it go from the front left to over you to the rear left. All 5 channels are also full range, so you could use large tower speakers for all channels if you wanted to. DTS also entered the arena as an alternative surround sound format.

Still not satisfied with the number of speakers, in 1999 Dolby Digital EX was introduced. This added an additional channel to the rear that was matrixed from the rear left and right speaker for a total of 6.1 or 7.1 speakers including the subwoofer. In 2000 Dolby went a step further and introduced Dolby Pro Logic II. Now, Dolby was able to matrix 5.1 from a stereo source. Next in line for Dolby came Pro Logic IIx which matrixed 6.1 or 7.1 from a stereo source. Dolby just kept adding extra speakers to the rear. We went from one to two, to now four rear channel speakers, with no change to the front soundstage. Now we have Dolby Pro Logic IIz, where Dolby has introduced two additional front speakers, as height speakers, matrixed from the soundtrack.

How to Choose the Right Sized Screen?

There are some amazing deals on front projectors with new models being released this fall. It is easy to think, why get a large flat screen TV when you can buy a front projector and have a 100” screen or larger. That is how I got into front projection years ago. But when you start to design a home theater, there are some things you need to consider. One of which is the right sized screen.

First of all, is the room you will be using light controlled? By light controlled, I mean can you close a door into the room and put up blinds and/or curtains to black out the room even during the day. Also, what do you watch mostly. If your room is not light controlled, or if you watch a lot of sports, you may want a projector that is very bright. You will also need to take into consideration where you will mount the screen, and where you will be mounting the projector. The larger the screen, the more light it will take to fill it. And the more ambient light, the brighter the projector will need to be still. But one of the biggest considerations is how far away from the screen you will be sitting.

One of the easiest mistakes to make is to get the largest screen you can. With a front projector, you may be able to project over 120” of image and if you are in a light controlled room your projector may be able to throw enough light to fill that size of a screen. But that could be a mistake. Have you ever sat in the front row at the movie theater? If so, how did you enjoy the movie? Did you enjoy it, or did you end up just getting a headache? To decide the size of the screen, I would make a trip to the theater to watch some movies. Try sitting up close, far away, and towards the middle. How close is too close, and how close it just right? Once you know how close the correct distance is to the screen, you will need to do some math. Most people, including myself has the optimum distance factor of 1.5 times. That means that whatever the width of the screen, the optimum viewing distance is 1.5 times that. I can put up to a 130” diagonally sized screen in my theater room, but from where I sit I should not go over 110” diagonally. So if the screen at the movie theater is 30 feet wide, and the perfect distance from the screen for you is 45 feet, 1.5 is also the ideal viewing distance for you.

Now you know one of the most important factors for your home theater. Once you know how far away from the screen you will be sitting, you will know how big of a screen to get. Now there is the question of the type of screen, such as pull-down, or fixed mount. There are also different screen material types, but the type of material to get will depend on the type of projector you get. And that is a different topic for later.

Shure SE420 In Ear Monitors Review

Last year I did a review of headphones. One of those was the Shure SE310. The ante was upped one more with the SE420. The SE310 uses a single balanced armature driver, and they sounded great. But the SE420 uses two balanced armature drivers for a dedicated tweeter and woofer, and integrated crossover. Naturally when I was given the chance to check them out I jumped.

Going back to the May 2008 review, I compared the SE310’s to a pair of Sennheiser earbuds. Referencing back to the review, this is what I had to say about the SE310’s:

“I have used Sennheiser headphones for years due to their reputation of good sounding headphones and I am glad to see the quality has not changed. The $300 Shure’s are on a different level, and takes everything to a higher level. It is kind of like going from a good Dryer’s ice cream, to a shop that serves frozen custard – very smooth! At first I was struggling with the sound of the Shure’s. They sounded amazing, nice soundstage, excellent resolution, very clean sounding, but the sound was also something else that I couldn’t put my tongue on, until it came to me. They were so much smoother.”

So now the question is, how does the SE420’s sound compared to the SE310’s? I am the owner of a dedicated theater room. Not only do I like my movies, as an audiophile I also like good sounding music. For that reason the speakers I use are not just great for movies, but great for music as well. There have also been advances in MP3 player’s storage capacity, and lossless formats. With a large capacity player, you can take your CD’s with you in an uncompressed/lossless format. Now you just need some capable IEM’s.

Enter the ES420’s. The SE420’s did not take anything away from the SE310’s. The 420’s take the performance of the 310’s, and add to it for some phenomenal sound. I pulled out my iPod classic and started my listening. The iPod classic has plenty of space on it, so I can store my CD’s in lossless format. The 420’s made the most of it. I ran through a big chunk of my diverse collection for a bit of a warm-up, starting with some U2, Janet Jackson, acoustical Metallica, eventually getting to some of my favorites- Fresh Aire. It all sounded wonderfully. I heard the kind of sound I am used to hearing with my Fresh Aire….and then some.

But I wanted to focus on some new material. I found my Blue Smith album. Tommy Smith’s El Nino featured fresh sounding jazz, very clean and showed off the dynamics of the dual drivers of the SE420’s. It was very enjoyable. But then I was surprised. I went to the track Rain Dance. It was just a sax accompanied by a little percussion. But I was pleasantly surprised. The sound stage was huge! I loved the imaging. The resolution I heard from the instruments and the room acoustics was astonishing.

I ended up at some Junior Wells, “Why Are People Like That.” WOW! The piano sounded natural, the vocals were right on, and the percussion was clean. The sound stage was nice and big. But what really got me was the dynamics of the harmonica! WOW! I kept hitting repeat, and thinking…..why are people like that?! Junior if you’re reading, I’m a believer.

When I heard the 420’s have dual drivers, I could not help but think to myself if having dual drivers in IEM’s would really make a difference. To that my opinion is yes. If good sound is important to you and you are in the market for some good IEM’s, the Shure 420’s deserve to be on your short list. For more info and complete specs, check out Shure’s website at www.shure.com.

Panasonic PT-AE4000 Info

The rumor that the Panasonic PT-AE4000 will not be coming to the US appears to be just that- a rumor. According to the Panasonic global website, the US model# is referenced (at the bottom of the page). The specs are alson listed, and include a 100,000:1 contrast ratio. For more details, read on at:
http://panasonic.net/avc/projector/products/ae4000/

1080P Front Projection Goes LED

H9080HD Redefines Home Theater Viewing Experience Through Performance and Features

ORLANDO, FL, June 17, 2009 – Vivitek Corporation, a leading manufacturer of environmentally innovative visual display and presentation products, introduces the H9080HD Home Cinema projector to the professional audio/video industry. The world’s first 1080p, LED home cinema projector delivers next-generation video processing performance for demanding home theater enthusiasts and professional installers.

The Vivitek H9080HD home cinema projector offers an amazing 100,000:1 contrast ratio and a brightness of 800 lumens. With full HD 1080p (1920x1080) resolution and advanced image processing technologies from Gennum, the H9080HD redefines the home theater viewing experience. As an LED-based projector, the H9080HD provides stunning image quality unmatched by traditional lamp-based projectors.

The LED light source is estimated to provide up to 20,000 hours of operation in normal viewing conditions, which equates to running a traditional projector 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for just over 2 years without changing a lamp. The Luminus PhlatLight™ RGB LED module replaces the traditional lamp and color wheel system, and in turn, increases picture quality, expands the color spectrum and maintains 1080p resolution.

“The H9080HD is the flagship product in Vivitek’s home theater line-up. Packed with features and all digital connections, it brings the magic of the movies to your home,” said Christopher Yang, Sr. Product Manager at Vivitek. “The H9080HD is a paradigm shifting, powerful and high-performance projector that creates unbelievable pictures and smooth playback from various video sources.”

With a built-in 1.3x zoom with manual lens shift (+/-120% vertical and +/-30% horizontal), the H9080HD projector allows installers to create the perfect image. Add in a Dynamic Iris to automatically adjust black levels, the H9080HD is a home theater dream projection system. It also comes with a wide variety of connectivity options including HDMI 1.3, RS-232c, Component, Composite, S-Video, VGA and BNC connections for the latest video sources.

The Vivitek H9080HD incorporates low-energy and low-power consumption features, including the lamp-free, LED light source. It is also mercury-free, with a dust- and filter-free, sealed engine design that eliminates constant filter disposal and cleaning. The non-motion interior of the projector allows for quiet and cool running, which makes it ideal in a home theater setting.
Availability/WarrantyThe Vivitek H9080HD will be available in July 2009 through authorized Vivitek dealers and distributors for MAP of $14,999. The projector carries a three (3)-year limited warranty on parts and labor.

About Vivitek CorporationVivitek manufactures an extensive line of visual display and presentation products including projectors and digital signage displays. The company’s line of digital projection and display devices incorporates the latest innovations and technologies to deliver superior products for it partners, customers and channels. Vivitek products are sold through authorized dealers, distributors, retailers and system integrators. Vivitek believes in the active responsibility in both its manufacturing and business processes and programs. For more information, please visit www.vivitekcorp.com.
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DLP® and BrilliantColor™ are registered marks of Texas InstrumentsVivitek® is a registered trademark of Vivitek Corporation

New Epson Pro Cinema Projectors Announced

Epson’s Latest 1080P Pro Cinema Projectors Bring Custom Installers High-Performing Home Theater Solutions

PowerLite Pro Cinema 9100 and 9500 UB Offer New Levels of Image Quality, Detail and Performance

ATLANTA (CEDIA Expo 2009, Booth 3353) – Sept. 8, 2009 – Epson America today announced two native 1080p 3LCD™ home theater projectors designed for custom installers and home theater buffs, the PowerLite® Pro Cinema 9100 and 9500 UB. These projectors feature the latest 3LCD chips with D7 technology for amazing color and detail, and significantly higher contrast ratios – the Pro Cinema 9100 achieves a 36,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio and the Pro Cinema 9500 UB attains an unprecedented 200,000:1 in its classi. With professional-level color tools including ISF calibration and color isolation, the Pro Cinema 9100 and 9500 UB offer professional installers full-featured solutions.

Available for $2,599 and sub-$4,000 respectively, the Pro Cinema 9100 and 9500 UB offer state-of-the-art image quality and performance in each of their respective categories with enhanced color reproduction capabilities and 3LCD technology to deliver bright and natural color, crisp image detail and reliability. As Epson’s flagship home theater model, the Pro Cinema 9500 UB brings several technology enhancements to the market, including a new dual-layered auto-iris to control light reduction rates, Super-resolution™ technology for enhanced picture quality and improved FineFrame™ technology.

“Epson understands the needs of the custom installation channel and is committed to providing high-quality products that meet the needs of dealers in today’s competitive market,” said Marge Ang, senior product manager, Epson America. “These latest Pro Cinema projectors have been packed with a range of value-add features and technology refinements that allow custom installers to build a customized high-performance, home entertainment system for their discerning customers.”

Epson Pro Cinema 9100
The Pro Cinema 9100 offers a high-value, customizable home entertainment experience. The projector includes ISF Day and Night modes for switching between picture modes and lamp output, as well as Epson’s Color Isolation system for fine-tuning of color saturation and hue without the need for blue and red optical filters, making set-up and calibration quick and simple. With a contrast ratio of up to 36,000:1 and brightness of 1,800 lumens color and white light outputii, this projector offers amazing big-screen image quality. Housed in a stylish black and silver design, the Pro Cinema 9100 features an exclusive Dynamic Iris system which contributes to the improvement in contrast. It controls light on a frame-by-frame basis at up to 60 times per second, making it ideal for fast-action movies with frequent scene changes.

Epson Pro Cinema 9500 UB
The flagship Pro Cinema 9500 UB offers custom installers the ultimate in image quality, combining Epson’s C2Fine® and UltraBlack™ technology with 3LCD and D7 technology to produce superb black levels and vivid images. The projector also features a dual-layered auto iris to control light reduction rates more effectively, contributing to its astounding contrast ratio – up to 200,000:1. With brightness of 1,600 lumens color and white light output, the projector delivers deeper blacks and crystal clear detail.

Adding to its high-quality performance, the Pro Cinema 9500 UB features Epson’s improved FineFrame technology for smoother frame interpolation, sharper video quality and the elimination of judder for viewing sports and fast-action movie scenes, and playing video games. Epson has also added new Super-resolution technology to sharpen blurry images or low-resolution pictures. This new technology is ideal for high-definition content, addressing broadcast signal noise reduction or improving the quality of poor DVD transfers.

The Pro Cinema 9500 UB also features new real color reproduction capabilities for more natural and precise colors, while Epson’s 12-bit 3LCD driver technology and a built-in Silicon Optix HQV Reon-VX video processor and PW390 scaler ensure a smoother picture. It also includes pre-set color space selection to set color gamut according to geography and source material, a feature typically found only on high-end high-definition broadcast monitors. And, with an optional external anamorphic lens (available from Epson) and “vertical stretch” picture mode, the Pro Cinema 9500 UB enables anamorphic viewing without an external processor for a full theatrical image – projecting true 2.35:1 and 2.40:1 ultra widescreen images without the black bars above and below the picture.

Shared Features of the Pro Cinema Line – Epson’s Pro Cinema projectors share a range of value-add features designed to further enhance performance, image quality and total cost of ownership, including:
3LCD Technology: Delivers bright and natural color, amazing detail and road-tested reliability; uses an advanced, 3-chip optical engine for full-time color without the possibility of color break-up.
Cinema Filter: Delivers larger color space for improved color fidelity.
Fujinon OptiCinema™ Multi-Lens Optics System: Projects clean, precise edges with consistent image quality across the entire screen.
E-TORL® (Epson Twin Optics Reflection Lamp): Provides optimum light uniformity and increased light output for screen sizes larger than ten feet with exclusive 200 watt high efficiency design; uses less energy for up to 4,000 hours of lamp lifeiii; both models include a spare lamp.
ISF Certification: Allows installers and calibrators to fine-tune picture quality and match output with front projection screens.
Input Selections: Features two HDMI 1.3a inputs with Deep Color support, high definition component video input, S-video input, composite video input, and VGA-type RGB input (D-sub 15).
Installation Options: Includes ceiling mount, reversible front panel Epson logo for various mounting positions, rear panel cable cover to hide wires and cable hook to ensure connections remain secure.

Availability and Support
Available in October and November respectively, the Pro Cinema 9100 and 9500 UB can be purchased through authorized Epson projector dealers and select retail outlets. Both models come with Epson’s industry leading service and support, including a three-year limited warranty with toll-free access to Epson’s PrivateLineSM priority technical support, 90-day limited lamp warranty, and free two-business day exchange with Extra CareSM Home Service.

About Epson America Inc.
Epson America, Inc. is the U.S. affiliate of Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation (SEC) and is a leading provider of digital imaging products that exceed the vision of its customers. The company’s extensive range of printers, 3LCD projectors and small- and medium-sized LCDs are renowned for their superior quality, functionality, compactness, and energy efficiency. The Seiko-Epson organization is proud of its ongoing contributions to the global environment and was recently added to the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index, an indicator for leading companies in economic, environmental and social criteria.

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Note: Epson, C2Fine, E-TORL are registered trademarks of Seiko Epson Corporation. PowerLite and PrivateLine are registered trademarks, FineFrame, OptiCinema and UltraBlack are trademarks, and Extra Care is a service mark of Epson America, Inc. All other product and brand names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Epson disclaims any and all rights in these marks.

iHome entertainment projectors under $4,000iiLight output varies depending on modes (color and white light output). White light output measured using ISO 21118 standard.iiiLamp life will vary depending upon mode selected, environmental conditions and usage. Lamp brightness decreases over time.

Epson Announces New 1080P Home Theater Projectors

Epson Adds Two High-Performance 1080P Projectors to
Award-Winning Home Theater Lineup

Feature-Packed PowerLite Home Cinema 8100 and 8500 UB Offer Home Theater Enthusiasts Unsurpassed Image Quality and Affordability

ATLANTA (CEDIA Expo 2009, Booth 3353) – Sept. 8, 2009 – Epson America today announced two 1080p front projectors, the PowerLite® Home Cinema 8100 and 8500 UB, expanding its award-winning line of 3LCD™ home theater projectors. Featuring D7 technology for brilliant color and detail, and higher contrast, the Home Cinema 8100 reaches a 36,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio and the Home Cinema 8500 UB achieves an unprecedented 200,000:11. The Home Cinema 8100 and 8500 UB also offer the latest in real color reproduction capabilities for more natural and precise colors, delivering an outstanding viewing experience for home entertainment and AV enthusiasts.

With pricing of $1,599 (plus an additional $100 rebate at launch) and sub-$3,000, respectively, the Home Cinema 8100 and 8500 UB offer consumers affordable high-definition 3LCD home entertainment, delivering bright and natural color, crisp image detail, and unsurpassed light efficiency and reliability. These 3LCD projectors use an advanced, three-chip optical engine for brilliant color and image quality without the possibility of color break-up, unlike DLP projectors that generate images using a spinning color wheel with a white segment.

“Epson is committed to leading the market when it comes to home theater performance and value,” said Marge Ang, senior product manager, Epson America. “These new models take advantage of Epson’s latest technology to offer consumers the highest-performing1080p solutions available at their respective price points.”

Epson Home Cinema 8100
The value-packed Home Cinema 8100 features an improved contrast ratio of up to 36,000:1 (double that of previous models) and higher brightness – 1,800 lumens color and white light output - for outstanding image quality in dark or lighted rooms. The projector’s exclusive Dynamic Iris system contributes to the dramatic contrast improvement, allowing light to be controlled on a frame-by-frame basis at up to 60 times per second, making it ideal for fast-action movies with frequent scene changes. Designed for home entertainment and AV enthusiasts on a budget, this projector offers high-quality home entertainment for enjoying movies, video games, sports, and more.

Epson Home Cinema 8500 UB
Along with the latest D7 chip set, this high-quality projector adds Epson’s C2Fine® and UltraBlack™ technology for superb black levels and vivid images. Further boosting black levels, the Home Cinema 8500 UB includes brightness of 1,600 lumens color and light output and new dual-layered auto iris technology, allowing for an impressive contrast ratio of up to 200,000:1. As a result, the projector controls light intensity more effectively, causing dark images to appear even darker and blacks to appear even richer and deeper.

The projector also features Epson’s new Super-resolution™ technology to create a sharper, more detailed picture resolution ideal for broadcast signal noise reduction or enhancing the quality of poor DVD transfers. Super-resolution technology improves the resolution of a blurred image, allowing consumers to fully enjoy high-definition quality at all times. Epson has also added new real color reproduction capabilities, which delivers more natural and precise colors, allowing viewers to experience the true-to-life colors filmmakers intended.

To ensure sharp, clear images, the projector features Epson’s 12-bit 3LCD driver technology and a built-in Silicon Optix HQV Reon-VX scaling and de-interlacing video processor. This processor reduces mosquito and block noise and augments multi-level contrast enhancement to further improve picture quality. The Home Cinema 8500 UB also features enhanced FineFrame™ technology resulting in smoother frame interpolation, sharper video quality and the elimination of judder.
Shared Features of the Home Cinema Line – The Home Cinema 8100 and 8500 UB share features designed to improve image quality and total cost of 3LCD projector ownership, including:
Cinema Filter: Delivers larger color space for improved color fidelity.
Fujinon OptiCinema™ Multi-Lens Optics System: Projects clean, precise edges with consistent image quality across the entire screen, expanding installation flexibility.
Pre-set Color Modes: Features seven color modes (Dynamic, Living Room, Natural, Theatre, Theatre Black 1, Theatre Black 2, x.v.Color) for optimal viewing in any environment.
E-TORL® (Epson Twin Optics Reflection Lamp): Provides optimum light uniformity and increased light output for screen sizes larger than ten feet with exclusive 200 watt high efficiency design; uses less energy for up to 4,000 hours of lamp lifeiii.
Advanced Dust Filtration System: Ensures efficient power use, reduced cool-down periods, lower fan speeds, quieter operation (only 22 db), and 98 percent efficiency for longer filter life.
Input Options: Features two HDMI 1.3a inputs with Deep Color support, high definition component video input, S-video input, composite video input, and VGA-type RGB input (D-sub 15).

Availability and Support
The Epson Home Cinema 8100 will be available in late-October and the Home Cinema 8500 UB will be available in November through authorized Epson projector dealers and select retail outlets, and come with Epson’s industry leading service and support. Pricing for the Home Cinema 8500 UB will be released at that time. This includes a two-year limited warranty with access to Epson PrivateLine® priority toll-free support, 90-day limited lamp warranty, and free two-business day exchange with Extra CareSM Home Service.

About Epson America Inc.
Epson America, Inc. is the U.S. affiliate of Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation (SEC) and is a leading provider of digital imaging products that exceed the vision of its customers. The company’s extensive range of printers, 3LCD projectors and small- and medium-sized LCDs are renowned for their superior quality, functionality, compactness, and energy efficiency. The Seiko-Epson organization is proud of its ongoing contributions to the global environment and was recently added to the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index, an indicator for leading companies in economic, environmental and social criteria.

# # #

Note: Epson, C2Fine, E-TORL are registered trademarks of Seiko Epson Corporation. PowerLite and PrivateLine are registered trademarks, OptiCinema and UltraBlack are trademarks and Extra Care is a service mark of Epson America, Inc. All other product and brand names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Epson disclaims any and all rights in these marks.
iHome entertainment projectors under $4,000.iiLight output varies depending on modes (color and white light output). White light output measured using ISO 21118 standard.iiiLamp life will vary depending upon mode selected, environmental conditions and usage. Lamp brightness decreases over time.

Mitsubishi Announces New Home Theater Projector HC6800

MITSUBISHI DIGITAL ELECTRONICS AMERICA ANNOUNCES
NEW HC6800 DIAMOND SERIES PROJECTOR AT CEDIA 2009
High-Contrast, High-Definition Projector Available Exclusively through System Integrators
and Leading Home Theater Retailers
IRVINE, Calif., September 8, 2009 — Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America’s Presentation
Products Division, known for award-winning, high-quality, high-definition presentation and
display products, today introduced its newest Diamond Series projector designed for the finest
high-definition home theater environments.
Mitsubishi’s 1080p HC6800 Diamond Series high-contrast projector offers quality and value for
end-users. This new projector is designed for easy installation and is available exclusively
through custom home theater systems integrators and leading retail channels such as Best Buy’s
Magnolia Home Theater.
“The HC6800 brings more features to the Diamond Series and projects movie images even more
crisply,” said Wayne Kozuki, product manager, Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America’s
Presentation Products Division. “It offers a fantastic combination that gives easy installation and
incredible picture quality with a touch of a button.”
Mitsubishi’s new Diamond Series projector features convenient motorized vertical and
horizontal lens shift that makes installation quick and easy. Users simply project a test pattern
grid onto their screen and line up the image with the fast track, then fine tune using a step-bystep
tracking process.
The HC6800 projector boasts an amazing 30,000:1 contrast ratio that increases depth and detail
in dark scenes, and its 1500 ANSI lumens provides all the brightness demanded by dedicated
home theater environments.
The HC6800 follows Mitsubishi’s Diamond heritage with its high speed automatic iris uses
polarization to create one of the highest contrast ratios available in a projector of this caliber.
Rich details, deep blacks and great depth and dimension are obvious in dark scenes such as those
in classic film noir and action films. This improved iris creates a quick black-to-light image shift
that provides dynamic, smooth transitions between light and dark scenes and sharp overall details
in dark video images.
The HC6800 Diamond projector complements Mitsubishi’s flagship home theater projector, the
HC7000, both on display in Booth 2701 at CEDIA 2009 in Atlanta, September 10-13, 2009. The
new HD HC6800 is designed for home theater aficionados who want to recreate a professional
movie theater experience. The projector’s sleek and highly stylized design features a rich matte
black cabinet finish. Like Mitsubishi’s other home theater projectors, the HC6800 model is one
of the quietest projectors on the market, so viewers hear a movie instead of distracting fan noise.
Viewing widescreen 2.35:1 aspect ratio films is easy with this new projector; it boasts
Anamorphic Lens Modes 1 and 2 support. In the past, users needed an expensive lens railing or
tracking apparatus to install or remove an anamorphic lens, depending on the desired 2.35:1 or
16:9 film aspect ratios. With the HC6800, users simply position an anamorphic lens
permanently in front of the projector lens and select the appropriate Anamorphic Mode 1 or
Mode 2either 2.35:1 or 16:9 aspect ratios—for the corresponding movie format. It’s an
economical, user-friendly design that saves time and effort while providing the ultimate home
theater viewing experience.
Two HDMI™ version 1.3 inputs provide easy set-up options for multiple video inputs. The
projector’s 3 LCD technology delivers amazing color, detail and road-tested reliability. Using a
durable, advanced three-panel design, Mitsubishi’s HC6800 projector produces rich and vibrant
colors with extraordinary details for outstanding picture quality.
“The new HC6800 projector demonstrates our continued commitment to Mitsubishi’s top-ofthe-
line home theater Diamond Series of projectors,” said James Chan, senior director,
marketing, Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America’s Presentation Products Division. “It adds a
new level of product quality and excellence for our home theater channel customers and endusers.”
Pricing, Availability, Limited Warranty
Mitsubishi’s HC6800 is competitively priced and will be available this month through authorized
Mitsubishi dealers such as Best Buy’s Magnolia Home Theaters. Each projector comes with
Mitsubishi’s two-year limited warranty on parts and labor plus a one-year limited warranty on
the lamp.
About Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America Presentation Products Division
Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America’s Presentation Products Division markets an extensive
line of professional presentation, front-projection high-definition home entertainment, and rearprojection
video wall cube display systems and digital signage monitors that are designed with
DLP or LCD technology. Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America is known for its high-quality
accurate color reproduction technology. Products are sold through authorized distributors,
resellers, retailers and system integrators throughout the United States and Mexico. Mitsubishi
Digital Electronics America is located at 9351 Jeronimo Road, Irvine, Calif., 92618. For more
information, please call 888-307-0312 or visit http://www.mitsubishi-hometheater.com
# # #
DLP is a registered trademark of Texas Instruments. HDMI is a trademark of HDMI Licensing, LLC.

Panasonic PT-AE4000U Preview

Check out the video preview of the upcoming Panasonic PT-AE4000U. Hopefully more info will be coming soon.

http://www.avforums.com/tv/index.php?videoid=127

Atlantic Technology and Solus/Clements Intruduce Bass Technology

Atlantic Technology and Solus/Clements Introduce Revolutionary H-PAS™ Bass Technology
H-PAS™ technology allows speaker designers to achieve targeted bass performance with 50 percent smaller cabinets, smaller drivers, and lower costs. Atlantic Technology will be licensing H-PAS to other manufacturers.
NORWOOD, MA (8/24/09) -- Atlantic Technology and Solus/Clements, two highly respected US loudspeaker manufacturers, today announced that they have joined forces to develop, market, and license a revolutionary new loudspeaker design protocol capable of delivering deep, low-distortion bass response at output levels unobtainable through conventional bass-alignment techniques. In particular, this technology will allow speakers with smaller cabinets and drivers to achieve levels of performance normally associated with much larger speaker systems. Proof of concept prototypes will be demonstrated at the CEDIA Expo in Atlanta, Georgia from September 10 through September 13, 2009.
The new patent-pending system, called H-PAS™, (Hybrid Pressure Acceleration System), combines elements of several speaker technologies: bass reflex, inverse horn, and transmission line. Using a unique cabinet design, these technologies are cascaded one to another to pressurize and accelerate low frequencies. In addition, the signals travel through a passive resonance/harmonic distortion line filter. The final result is the ability of an H-PAS design to deliver extended deep bass with exceptionally low distortion.
H-PAS does not require the use of special drivers, any kind of on-board electronics or outboard equalization -- it is a purely passive system, completely compatible with all amplifiers and AV receivers.
The inventor of the technology is Philip Clements of Solus/Clements Loudspeakers, a 30-year plus CE industry veteran and loudspeaker designer. For the past eight months, Clements has worked closely with Atlantic Technology to develop a range of compact designs using H-PAS protocols. Clements has contracted with, and appointed Atlantic Technology as the exclusive licensing agent for the technology, and will now continue its development together with Atlantic.
The H-PAS demonstration model that will be on display at the CEDIA Expo utilizes two 4 ½-inch drivers in an enclosure of approximately 1.4 cubic feet to produce bass that extends to 29 Hz (-3dB) at Sound Pressure Levels that exceed 105dB. Bass harmonic distortion is under 3%. Comparable performance in a conventionally designed loudspeaker system would require bass drivers of at least triple the size in an enclosure at least twice as large.
“Until now, I would have considered it virtually impossible to achieve such high levels of bass performance and quality in such small enclosures," said Peter Tribeman, the president of Atlantic Technology. "With higher performance from smaller cabinets, and hence the potential for lower manufacturing and shipping costs, we believe H-PAS has applications in almost every corner of the loudspeaker business, ranging from large floorstanding towers to desktop computer speakers."
"This new system," Tribeman continues, "is the first ever to break the famous Iron Law of loudspeaker design, which states: 'deep bass extension, compact enclosure, or good efficiency … pick any two at the expense of the third'. For the very first time, due to Phil Clements' breakthrough design, we can have them all.”
Atlantic Technology anticipates shipping its first H-PAS product, the H-PAS-1 floor-standing speaker, in the 4th quarter of 2009. Solus/Clements will also deliver an H-PAS 6-1/2-inch tower and bookshelf model to be available early next year. Additionally, Atlantic Technology will be licensing H-PAS technology to other manufacturers. The new system will be demonstrated by appointment to interested parties at Atlantic Technology’s CEDIA Expo booth 3001.
From its inception in 1989, Atlantic Technology's mission has been to produce home entertainment products that exemplify the very best in both performance and value. The company specializes in complete high-performance multi-channel speaker systems, state-of-the-art home theater electronics components, and products for custom audio/video installation. For more information on Atlantic Technology and its many fine products for home theater and custom audio/video installation, visit www.atlantictechnology.com or call 781-762-6300.

Onkyo Release Info on their high end TX-NR5007, TX-NR3007, and TX-NR1007.

Onkyo Debuts 3 Networked, Multi-task AV Receivers
Onkyo's versatile new high-end network-capable AV receivers jump from seven to nine channels, adding two new amps that can be used for Audyssey DSX and Dolby ProLogic IIz expanded soundstage processing, added multi-zone capabilities, or to provide increased power to the main loudspeakers.


Onkyo's 9.2-channel TX-NR5007 (left, with open front panel) and TX-NR3007 (right).Additional photographs available in the online press release. Click any photo for 300 dpi JPEG image files.

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (8/24/09) -- Onkyo has introduced three network- and internet-radio-capable, 9.2-channel THX Ultra2 Plus certified A/V receivers that deliver all the power, processing, and features to support cutting edge home theater and whole-house entertainment. The three new models, the Onkyo TX-NR1007, TX-NR3007, and top-of-the-line TX-NR5007, will all be shipping to dealers before the end of September.
"With nine amplifier channels, dual independent subwoofer outputs, and up-to-the-minute networking and AV processing, the flexibility of the 'double-0' series is unprecedented," said Paul Wasek, Marketing Manager, Onkyo USA. "You can have a full-tilt 9.2-channel theater using Audyssey DSX or Dolby ProLogic IIz, or a great five-channel theater with added power to the main speakers or to additional stereo zones - the list of possibilities is a long one. These receivers take home theater to the current frontiers of networking, audio, and video performance."
All three new receivers include a rear-panel Ethernet port, and provide advanced networking capabilities with streaming for Pandora, Rhapsody, vTuner, and Sirius Internet Radio services. Each receiver is Windows 7 compatible, and carries DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) 1.5 certification, ensuring optimal compatibility with other network-enabled equipment throughout the home.
The two top models in Onkyo's TX-series AV receivers, the TX-NR5007 and TX-NR3007, feature eight and seven HDMI 1.3a inputs each, respectively, including one on each front panel. Video processing, including upscaling of all video inputs to 1080p/24, is handled by an advanced HQV Reon-VX chipset. The less expensive TX-NR1007 features a total of six HDMI inputs on the rear panel, and 1080p upscaling via Faroudja DCDi Cinema processing. All three models include dual parallel HDMI outputs, allowing for display of current programming on dual monitors, simultaneously or independently, for increased setup flexibility. These models also include powerful ISF Certified Calibration Controls (ISFccc) for independent optimization and fine-grain adjustments of a full range of video sources, including day, night, and custom modes for each input.
Audio processing duties in each new model is handled by a trio of TI Aureus ™ DSP chips, and is compatible with every major surround format currently in use. Premium quality Burr Brown DACs—32-bit in the case of the TX-NR5007--in conjunction with Onkyo's exclusive VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry) are employed for digital-to-analog conversion. In addition to audio decoding, the receivers include a full suite of acoustic setup and optimization technologies from THX (Loudness Plus) and Audyssey (MultEQ XT, Dynamic EQ, and Dynamic Volume) that custom tailor audio output to ensure optimal system performance in any environment and at any listening level. Additionally, the TX-NR5007 and TX-NR3007 are the first Onkyo Receivers to include Dolby Volume, which maintains listening volume at a consistent level regardless of changes in the source material, such as commercials, or when switching from one source to another, such as TV to DVD.
The nine power amplifiers can be configured for a variety of different purposes. One option is for a full 9.2-channel theater system that includes independent left and right subwoofers, and two additional 'height' or 'stereo-wide' speakers when using Audyssey DSX or Dolby's Pro Logic IIz processing. The system can also be configured to power two independent stereo zones in addition to a five-channel theater set-up. Two channels can also be combined with the front left/right channels to increase power to the main speakers via bi-amplification or, in the case of the TX-NR5007 and TX-NR3007, in a bridged configuration. Finally, in the TX-NR5007 two channels can be tasked to power a second pair of main speakers for dedicated two-channel listening, allowing for independent 7.2-channel home theater and stereo audio speaker setups in a single room.
The TX-NR5007 is rated at 145 watts per channel, and its power supply features a massive toroidal transformer and a pair of 22,000 microfarad storage capacitors to handle even the most dynamic source material. Both the TX-NR5007 and the 140-watt-per-channel TX-NR3007 feature separate power supply transformers for audio and video processing and reproduction. All three receivers, including the 135-watt-per-channel TX-NR1007, feature a push-pull amplification topology, with three-stage inverted Darlington circuitry and the company's highly regarded WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology) for highly dynamic and linear response throughout the audible spectrum.
The TX-NR5007, TX-NR3007, and TX-NR1007 each include Onkyo's exclusive Universal Port, allowing for one-cable expansion with the company's HD Radio tuner and/or iPod dock unit. Each model is firmware updatable via Ethernet or (on the TX-NR5007 and TX-NR3007) front panel USB port. All three include Onkyo's new bidirectional and customizable preprogrammed remote control that dramatically simplifies the process of programming all the components in your system.
The Onkyo receivers will be available in September at suggested retail prices of $2,699 for the TX-NR5007, $2,099 for the TX-NR3007, and $1,599 for the TX-NR1007.
Since 1946 Onkyo has been passionately committed to developing audio products that deliver uncommon performance, quality and value. Bundling proprietary technologies and innovations with other sound-enhancing exclusives, Onkyo continues to created award winning products that are lauded by many of the industry leading audio publications. The company's philosophy is to deliver products that are superbly designed and built to a consistently outstanding standard of excellence. Today, Onkyo is at the forefront of the home theater and digital revolutions. For more information about this and other fine Onkyo products, visit http://www.onkyousa.com/ or call 800-229-1687.

Onkyo seems to have hit a sweet spot with the TX-NR807

Onkyo Debuts Mid-Price THX Select2 Plus AV Receiver With Streaming Internet Radio Capabilities and DLNA 1.5 Networking Compatibility.
With the growing market for advanced internet radio services like Pandora, Rhapsody, Sirius Internet Radio, and vTuner, consumers increasingly seek to integrate their home entertainment systems with the internet.

Onkyo TX-NR807 AV receiver. Additional photographs available in the online version of this release. Click any photo for 300 dpi JPEG image file.

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (8/10/09) -- Onkyo has introduced and begun shipping its first network-capable home theater receiver configured for Pandora, Rhapsody, and Sirius' streaming internet radio services. The new Onkyo TX-NR807 also capable of playing computer music files from networked PCs, is fully compatible with the Digital Living Network Alliance's DLNA 1.5 consumer electronics interoperability specification, and sells for less than half the price of the company's previous network-capable model. With THX Select2 Plus certification and state-of-the-art processing from Dolby, DTS, Audyssey and Faroudja, the Onkyo TX-NR807 offers high definition audio and video performance. The TX-NR807 and non-networking TX-SR707, also introduced today, are Onkyo's first receivers to offer Audyssey DSX soundstage extension processing in addition to Dolby Pro Logic IIz height-capabilities.
The Onkyo TX-NR807 connects directly to the internet or a home network via a rear-panel Ethernet port. The receiver's on-screen user interface allows users direct access to Pandora, Rhapsody, Sirius Internet Radio, and vTuner streaming radio services, or to access MP3, WMA, FLAC, Lossless, Ogg Vorbis, and AAC files from any computer or storage device on the network. The receiver is Windows 7 compatible, and its Ethernet port can also be used for firmware updates.
The TX-NR807 also includes Onkyo's new Bi-Directional Preprogrammed RI Remote Control which will impress anyone who has ever been frustrated by the trial-and-error manual data inputs and paper listings usually needed to program associated TV's, disc players, cable boxes, and other components. Onkyo's new system allows users to select from a on-screen list of compatible products, and then automatically transmit the codes from the receiver to the remote control. The remote also offers up to four macro programs for simultaneous activation of multiple components and feature sets.
As a premium home theater receiver, the TX-NR807 is also the perfect match for high definition video displays with Blu-ray players and other HD sources. It has six HDMI 1.3a inputs, 1080p video upscaling of all sources using the powerful Faroudja DCDi Cinema processor chip. On the audio side it has a full suite of surround processing, including lossless Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio.
The Onkyo TX-NR807 is one of the first receivers to incorporate Audyssey DSX technology, which allows the back surround channels to be retasked for front-wide speakers to expand the width of the sounds stage, or for front height speakers to provide vertical ambience effects. The receiver also includes Audyssey MultiEQ room calibration technology, plus that company's Dynamic Volume and Dynamic EQ processing. Dolby ProLogic IIz processing is also included to provide an alternate implementation of height channel technology.
The TX-NR807 has seven powerful 135-watts-per-channel Onkyo WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology) amplifier sections for high output and low distortion, offering a dynamic power rating of 300 watts into 3 ohms. It has an extensive array of analog and digital inputs and outputs, including an MM/MC phono input. Its multiroom audio capabilities are similarly extensive with Powered Zone 2 and 3 capabilities, multiple DC triggers, bidirectional RS-232, and Onkyo's exclusive Universal Port for connection of an optional iPod Dock and HD Radio tuner.
The Onkyo TX-NR807 is now shipping to Onkyo dealers and will have a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $1,099.
Onkyo Debuts TX-SR707Onkyo has also introduced the TX-SR707 THX-Select2 Plus home theater receiver, which has the same advanced high definition audio and video processing features as the TX-NR807, but uses a 7 x 100 Watts power amplifier section, Powered Zone 2, conventional preprogrammed remote control, and has no networking capabilities. The Onkyo TX-SR707 is currently available with a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $899.
Since 1946 Onkyo has been passionately committed to developing audio products that deliver uncommon performance, quality and value. Bundling proprietary technologies and innovations with other sound-enhancing exclusives, Onkyo continues to created award winning product that are lauded by many of the industry leading audio publications. The company's philosophy is to deliver products that are superbly designed and built to a consistently outstanding standard of excellence. Today, Onkyo is at the forefront of the home theater and digital revolutions. For more information about this and other fine Onkyo products, visit http://www.onkyousa.com/ or call 800-229-1687.

Sansa slotMusic Player Review by Jerry Tubbs

What I Love/Hate about the new "Sansa slotMusic Player."

SanDisk...you know them...they make the memory card that turns your digital camera into a Photo mat booth (for pics) or a film studio (for vids). They turn your phone into a data warehouse of addresses, appointments, applications and "tune"-age. They make thumb drives so dense that you can carry the digital equivalent of a set of encyclopedias on your key ring.

When you make something (memory cards) in a way that is so ubiquitous, why do anything else? And after my trial run with the new SanDisk Sansa slotMusic Player...I'm still asking that.

Don't get me wrong, I love MP3 players, but after 10 years of having one...I'm spoiled, and as much as I love SanDisk products, it's a love/hate relationship with this one.

I love that fact that is pocket-sized, this one will remind you of a Zippo lighter......and like the coolest Zippo lighters...the slotMusic player comes with a graphicswrap...in my case the sample was the artist "Akon", but it would be easy to imagine getting a wrap with your favorite artist on it.

I hate the fact that it's got a wrap on it instead of a display! What tune am I on...hello??? Guessing what track I'm on went the way of the dodo bird when I finally listened to my last cassette tape in..hmmm...1985?

I like the fact that it's battery powered...I hate MP3 players that have rechargeable batteries that develop a "memory" and can't be replaced. Nothing worse than a 30 minute treadmill run ahead of you and your Mp3 player dies in the first minute...with this player I can snap in my own rechargeable and carry a spare!

I love the ear buds....normally hate them because they fall out of my ears constantly...but the set that came with these are oversized...so they friction fit my ears. First time I've been able to wear ear buds AND be in motion without constantly re-inserting them.

I hate the fact that the sound was so-so....hey folks, you are dealing with perfectly reproduced digital music...make sure the "speakers' can handle it.

I love the fact that the controls were so simple...on/off, skip forward/skip back and play/pause. But hate 'em as well...I was listening to an artist that was new to me, and a compilation that was new to me...so I didn't know Track 1 from Track 13...without a display I had to rely on an eerie sense of Déjà' Vu when I had tried to skip to the next song unsuccessfully 3 times in a row.

And finally, I love/hate the one the thing SanDisk does so well....the reason for theSansa Media Player to even exist...the Micro disk that stores all your tunes and makes the player play.

I love that this Micro card is less than 1/2 the size of a postage stamp and thinnerthan an ATM card, this mighty midget carries an IMPRESSIVE 1 gig of memory. And SanDisk anticipated my next question, and provided a USB convertor, so I was able to slip the chip out of the player and in to my computer...where I discovered a photo gallery of the artist, full length videos, all the songs AND...about 400 Megs of left over memory, to boot.

I also hate that the Micro card is so small. In fact, for the first time, I can sympathize with women who lose the back to their earrings...drop this card on a dark carpet and you’re in for an all out "down on your hands and knees" search for hours.

I love the fact that the Micro card comes in its own plastic carrying case...thesecards are so small and so thin, you want to protect them.

But, I also hate that the Micro card comes in a little plastic case with the artist’s picture on it. I know you are trying to bring me back to my old "album art" days ...but I left those days on purpose. Imagine if Barbie had a record collection...that's the size of the case this Micro card comes in ...with a postage stamp sized picture of Akon glued to the front.

My first thought was, I just weaned myself away from the old CD Carrying cases...how silly am I going to feel bringing a carrying case for a couple hundred plastic postage stamped sized album covers...not gonna happen. Remember when you could spend a whole afternoon trying to match CD's to their empty cases? Imagine trying that using a magnifying glass.

Packaging...gone the way of the dinosaur when the MP3 player arrived. It's the very reason why the IPod was so revolutionary in the first place...a jukebox without all the baggage. I can carry thousands of artists with me without the packaging...that's the freedom of an MP3 player, freedom from packaging, freedom from media....dangerous words for a media company.

Okay, okay...so I don't hate the thing...but, what's it going to take for me to love this player?

1) A display...I gotta know who/what I'm listening to and a way to navigate quicker thanskipping through my entire collection a song at a time.
2) One BIG memory card, not hundreds of little ones. I want a multi-gig card that USB'sto my PC so I can manage my library with ease, and that can slip into my phone or my player with the same ease,
3) Wraps with MY favorite artist on it.

Maybe I just need to remember what I am dealing with. After all, what would you expect from a basic $20 player that was designed to be cheap yet allow you to listen to the slotMusic. Maybe what I need is the new slotRadio player with it’s built in display, get a large capacity memory card for all my tunes, and a nice pair of ear buds.

Until then, I will remain Micro card free....and loving it.

Onkyo Announces 2 New Premium HTiB Systems

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (7/28/09) -- Onkyo has introduced two new 7.1-channel home theater systems that deliver leading edge AV processing and surround sound reproduction for today's most advanced home theater programming, including HDTV and Blu-ray. The HT-S7200 and HT-S6200 each feature powerful AV receivers with 1080p-compatible HDMI inputs, 130 watt-per-channel amplification, processing for every major audio format on the market - including the option of incorporating front height-channel reproduction with Dolby's newly introduced ProLogic IIz processing. Each package also includes a high performance 7.1-channel speaker system with a powerful active subwoofer, and Onkyo's exclusive U-Port single-cable iPod dock and charging system.
The Onkyo HT-S7200 and HT-S6200 feature five and four HDMI 1.3a inputs, respectively, and are completely compatible with 1080p HD video. The HT-S7200 also incorporates upscaling of component and composite video sources to 1080i, including Faroudja DCDi Edge deinterlacing to eliminate unwanted conversion artifacts. There is audio processing for every major surround format, including decoding for Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio lossless audio formats, as well as Dolby's new ProLogic IIz algorithm, which introduces a third dimension to surround sound through the addition of a pair of 'height' channels above the front left and right channel speakers.
Onkyo's HT-S7200 and HT-S6200 each include a full complement of seven speakers with attractive gloss black finishes and a powerful subwoofer for deep bass reproduction. The HT-S7200 speaker system features dual-drive tallboy front speakers consisting of dual 3-1/4-inch woofers and 1-inch balanced dome tweeter - that deliver a fuller mid-range while making a sleek visual statement - a horizontal center channel with the same drivers, and four surround speakers. In addition to its inclusion with the HT-S7200, this speaker system is also available separately as the standalone model SKS-HT870 speaker package. The HT-S6200 incorporates gloss finished bookshelf sized speakers with single 4-inch woofers and 1-inch balanced dome tweeter on the three front speakers and 3-1/4-inch full range speakers for the surrounds. Both systems derive deep bass sound effects from a powerful, 230-watt bass reflex subwoofer with a 10-inch woofer.
Both the Onkyo HT-S7200 and HT-S6200 include a trio of acoustic correction technologies: Audyssey 2EQ room correction and calibration system, Audyssey Dynamic EQ, and Audyssey Dynamic Volume. When used in combination with the 2EQ system, the latter dynamically adjust the receiver's output to correct for room acoustics, listening position, and playback-level variations, delivering an overall experience much closer match to what the audio engineers originally intended.
The Onkyo HT-S7200 and HT-S6200 include Onkyo's exclusive Universal Port (U-Port) which enables one-cable connection for the included UP-A1 iPod™ dock. This control and charging dock integrates both audio and video playback from Apple™ iPhone™ or iPod portable devices, greatly extending the flexibility of these systems to integrate consumers' electronic entertainment devices. Additionally, the U-Port connection can also provide a one-cable connection to the company's optional HD-Radio tuner, making it simple to bring this new transmission format to the home theater.
The Onkyo HT-S7200 and HT-S6200 are now available at suggested retail prices of $899 and $699 each, respectively. The SKS-HT870 7.1-channel speaker package is also now available at a suggested retail price of $499.
Since 1946 Onkyo has been passionately committed to developing audio products that deliver uncommon performance, quality and value. Bundling proprietary technologies and innovations with other sound-enhancing exclusives, Onkyo continues to created award winning product that are lauded by many of the industry leading audio publications. The company's philosophy is to deliver products that are superbly designed and built to a consistently outstanding standard of excellence. Today, Onkyo is at the forefront of the home theater and digital revolutions. For more information about this and other fine Onkyo products, visit http://www.onkyousa.com/ or call 800-229-1687.
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Magellan Maestro 4350 GPS review by Jeff Roy

Up for review is the Magellan Maestro 4350 GPS receiver. If you have ever gotten lost before, with a little help you no longer will. Just as most consumer electronics continue to get better with more features, so it is with the 4350. Not only is it a great GPS receiver loaded with extra features, it will also work with other consumer electronics.

The Magellan 4350 GPS receiver is a great unit. The 4.3 inch display is easy to see, and the 3D landmarks help you see where you are. Magellan’s OneTouch is easy to use. To get directions, simply press the options button, followed by the GoTo and Address buttons. The onscreen keyboard will come up to enter the city, followed by the street name and then street number. Press the GoTo button and the GPS will calculate the route for you. The directions are easy to see, include turn by turn voice prompts with street names and each direction, lane guidance for highway driving, and re-routing if you need to make a pit stop. For pit stops, there are also 6 million searchable points of interest thanks to AAA, in categories such as restaurants, gas stations, banks, etc.

That may sound like basic GPS features. But the 4350 has ones that are not quite basic. I really like the night map, where it changes colors for a dimmer look at night. Trip information is provided with your duration and estimated time of arrival. For city driving it also gives you the current address as you drive. No more need to search for street numbers- it is on your display. For those of you with a heavy foot, there is also a speed warning feature. And since reaching your destination does not always mean getting there in your car, the 4350 has a pedestrian feature so you can navigate while you walk. For those of you that live in a busy city, there is also a subscription traffic service to notify you current traffic info and potential recommended detours. I really like the zoom feature that allows you to zoom in and out of the current map. If you want to get a peak ahead at where you are heading, you can even click and drag the map to see other areas.

The features of the Magellan 4350 are also not just limited to its use as a GPS receiver. There is a built in Bluetooth radio, so you can sync it with certain cell phones that also feature Bluetooth to make and receive hands free calls. You can use either the built in speaker for hands fee calls, or the fm transmitter to hear through your car’s stereo. The unit also is a functioning media player, with a memory card slot to use for your music, photos, or videos.

The 4350 also has worked wonderfully. Since using it I have yet to get lost. It has never leaded me wrong. Program in your home address and it is even easier to find your way back with fewer data entry. While the 4350 is not your basic GPS and as such has features not found in your basic GPS like the Bluetooth and media player. But the other GPS related features could be well worth the extra cost over a basic GPS. Having been lost before, I now will not be without a GPS receiver. Magellan has done a great job with this high quality receiver in the 4350. If you are in the market for one, I highly recommend putting the Magellan Maestro 4350 on your list. For complete details and specs please checkout Magellan’s website at wwwmagellangps.com.

Onkyo Debuts Blu-ray Disc Player with BD-Live Interactive and AVCHD Compatibility

Upper Saddle River, NJ (7/28/09) -- Onkyo has introduced a new, state-of-the-art, BD-Live interactive Blu-ray Disc Player, model DV-BD507. This full-featured player delivers outstanding high definition 1080p video playback and high resolution multichannel audio over a HDMI 1.3a. It has all the capabilities once could expect from a Blu-ray player, plus the high performance and build-quality consumers have come to expect from Onkyo products.
The Onkyo DV-BD507 plays Blu-ray discs with their full high definition 1080p resolution, including compatibility with the Deep Color and x.v. Color specifications of HDMI 1.3a. It is also capable of playing standard DVD's and CD's, with internal scaling of all video sources to 1080p. It can also process AVCHD video clips stored on a SD or SDHC card or DVD-R/RW.
The Onkyo DV-BD507 also features BD-Live (Profile 2.0) for enhanced interactivity through the internet, making additional and updated content available instantly. When used with an optional 1 GB (or greater) SD/SDHC card, the player includes BonusView features to allow for picture-in-picture capabilities while viewing the main feature.
The Onkyo DV-BD507 is currently available at a suggested retail price of $449.
Since 1946 Onkyo has been passionately committed to developing audio products that deliver uncommon performance, quality and value. Bundling proprietary technologies and innovations with other sound-enhancing exclusives, Onkyo continues to created award winning product that are lauded by many of the industry leading audio publications. The company's philosophy is to deliver products that are superbly designed and built to a consistently outstanding standard of excellence. Today, Onkyo is at the forefront of the home theater and digital revolutions. For more information about this and other fine Onkyo products, visit http://www.onkyousa.com/ or call 800-229-1687.

OtterBox Waterproof iPod Case review by Jeff Roy

We are in the middle of summer, when many of us either hit the pool or some other form of water activity to have fun and keep cool. Water and electronics do not normally mix well. Taking your iPod to the lake can be dangerous for your iPod. But with the help of OtterBox there is no need to fret for your iPod.

Up for review today is the OtterBox Classic Armor case, and H3 waterproof headphones. The set comes with the clear hard plastic waterproof case, the armor series armband, and the H3 waterproof headphones. Together, it is ideal for those who do any activity where there is the concern for protection from water, such as water skiing, surfing, or just playing in the pool. The case is airtight for iPod protection. The armband is neoprene, adjustable, and the case attaches to it. The headphones are a behind the head design with an adjustable band for proper fit for you. The headphones also come with rubber earplugs that go around the earbuds for better fit and isolation in water.

I must admit, I was skeptical about the product at first. I knew it would work (being waterproof as advertised), but how would they sound? I set my expectations for them to be waterproof but that was all I was expecting. My expectations for sound quality was very low. I was not expecting them to sound very well. I was pleasantly surprised.

Testing them out in the pool, the case proved to be fully waterproof. The headphones went around my neck and fit rather well. The hard case had a thin membrane that you could control the iPod through. It worked well enough. And the headphones truly were waterproof. The sound quality did vary. When listening to them underwater, the sound quality depended on the seal. When I had a good seal, they actually sounded better underwater. But moving around in the water I lost, regained, and lost again the seal. But even when I didn’t have a good seal, the sound quality was better than I expected.

While they are marketed for use on activities such as skiing, I would be careful with it. While I believe the case would do a good job of protecting your iPod, I am not sure how secure the armband would be on any type of impact. The case attaches to the armband with a plastic clip. The case attaches fairly firmly, but a wipeout on the lake could make the case come off. If that were to happen, I think the case would do a good job protecting the iPod. If you are snow skiing, that could mean doing some searching to find it. But if you were water skiing, your iPod could be on it’s way down to the bottom of the lake.

The OtterBox Classic Armor case with Waterproof H3 headphones and Armband proved to be a great product. If you are looking for a way to listening to your tunes while getting a workout, I would suggest you give them a try. I am not aware of any other products like it. While they do not provide audiophile quality sound, that was also not the intent. Providing a waterproof product was a success, and it actually provided decent sound. For more info, please check out OtterBox website at www.OtterBox.com.

NHT is back!

As I previously posted, NHT had decided to go quiet. With the current state of the economy, they had decided to focus on some R&D, and come back in the future. That future turned out to be sooner than later. They have decided to become an internet retailer. While NHT speakers will still be available for purchase through their partnered retailers, they will also be available for purchase online through NHT for a cheaper price. This will be good news to many, as they are a very reputable high quality manufacturer at a very good price, that just got even better! Stay tuned for some upcoming reviews.

Cobra XRS 9960G radar detector review, by Jeff Roy

Attention drivers- especial those who tend to have a lead foot. We are in a new age. No longer do us drivers have to worry about the radar used by law enforcement. Now there is photo radar. For you speedsters out there, no longer do you have to just look for the squad car. You also need to be on the look out for the photo radar cameras. There are also red light photo cameras. Enter the Cobra XRS 9960G.

For you drivers that can drive over the speed limit, many of you may have a radar detector. That is, if they are not illegal in the state you live in. Where I live, they are not illegal, so I have one. But my old ESD-9570 no longer gets the job done. The way I look at it, what is the point if your radar detector does not get the job done. It detects against radar, but not the photo radar, so for me it is not fully getting the job done.

The Cobra XRS 9960G gets the job done. Not only does it have a 15 band radar detector, it also detects photo and red light cameras. It includes AURA (Advanced Universal Road Alert) GPS receiver to know your current location. The GPS receiver accesses a database, and based on your location will tell you of all upcoming photo radar, red light cameras, speed traps, and dangerous intersections on a global basis. There is both an audible and visual warning. The visual warning is first a green warning that a camera is coming up, then you get an orange warning that the camera is getting close, and then finally a red warning that you are almost on it.

Other features include ExtremeBright DataGrafix 1.5” OLED Display, to easily see the display and settings. The display settings allow for full color, or Blue, Green, Orange, or Red to match your car’s instrumentation. The 9960G comes with new and improved Super-Xtreme Range Superheterodyne (S-XRS) detection technology. It provides a super fast radar lock-on technology, and provides 15 band detection.

Overall the radar detector worked great! There was only one time when I saw a photo radar camera and was not warned of it, and I believe it was a brand new camera location that had not yet been added to the database. More common was the limited notice of an upcoming camera. Sometimes I would only get a green alert, or a green alert and an orange alert before I get to the camera. I should have gotten the green, then orange, then red alert before reaching the camera. While it wasn’t perfect, I still at least got a warning. Also keep in mind that it is based on location. So if you are driving and get a warning of an upcoming camera but you do not see it, the camera could be at that location, but installed for traffic going the opposite direction, such as on the other side of the freeway.

When it comes to driving, speeding can be expensive. So you either do not speed, or if the state you live in allows you to have one, you could get a radar detector. But what good is your investment if it does not work right? I am glad to see that Cobra’s reputation for quality products have not changed. The Cobra 9960G performed well for both standard radar as well as photo radar. It saved me a few times, and after all isn’t that the reason for getting it? For more info and complete specs, please check out Cobra’s website at: www.cobra.com.