-
Klipsch Announces Updated Cornwall IV Speaker[teaser]A refreshed version of the company's iconic Heritage Series speaker has been revealed.[/teaser] Klipsch has detailed the latest iteration of its Cornwall IV speaker. The new fourth-generation model offers several new design and acoustic upgrades. The speaker features a three-way design with horn-loaded compression drivers and a 15-inch direct-radiating woofer. In addition, the updated model now uses a new K-702 midrange compression mated to a modified proprietary Tractrix horn with patented Klipsch Mumps technology; a new high-fidelity, steep slope network; new ports with Tractrix flares; a newly designed wide dispersion high frequency phase plug; premium aluminum input panels; high-quality speaker cables; binding posts with support for bi-wiring or bi-amping; and a refreshed passive network with premium grade AudioQuest internal wiring. The new Klipsch Cornwall IV is now on display at the Rocky Mountain Audio Fest in Denver, Colorado. Interested buys can purchase the speakers via authorized Heritage dealers in satin black ash, American walnut, or natural cherry real-wood veneer finishes for an MSRP of $2,999. Each unit is handcrafted in the USA and grain-matched using wood veneer panels from the same timber, creating pairs that sound virtually identical. Here's a full rundown of key specs and features for the Cornwall IV per Klipsch: Three-way, 15” horn-loaded loudspeakers All new mid-range compression driver, mid-horn with mumps, and Tractrix® ports A premium, aluminum input panel to accommodate large, high-quality speaker cables for bi-wiring or bi-amping A best-in-class, highly durable speaker enclosure assembled with pride in Hope, Arkansas as part of the Klipsch Heritage Series Available in Natural Cherry, Satin Black Ash and American Walnut book-matched wood veneers to complement any space Sold in pairs Source: KlipschPosted Thu Sep 5, 2019 at 03:40 PM PDT by: -
Integra Unveils New 11.2 and 9.2 Channel AV Receivers[teaser]Three new immersive audio devices have been detailed.[/teaser] Integra has announced the latest additions to its lineup of "Dot 3" series home theater components. The new collection includes the DRC-R1.3 11.2-Channel Network A/V Processor ($2,499), DRX-R1.3 11.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver ($3,299), and the DRX-7.3 9.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver ($2,399). All three components include Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersive audio capabilities, along with IMAX Enhanced support and multi-zone processing. In addition, the lineup offers 4K/60p, HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG, BT.2020, WCG (Wide Color Gamut), 4:4:4/24-bit color, HDCP 2.3, and eARC pass-through. Connectivity options include Chromecast built-in with Google Assistant voice control, Works with Sonos, AirPlay 2, and DTS Play-Fi. The DRC-R1.3 is an 11.2-Channel Network A/V Processor designed to pair with a separate power amp via gold-plated 11.2-channel balanced XLR audio or single-ended pre-outs. Under the hood, the device offers 384 kHz/32-bit D/A conversion with AK4490 768 kHz/32-bit stereo DAC for Front L/R, 2 x AK4458 768 kHz/32-bit multichannel DACs (main channels), and separate AK4388 DAC for Zone audio. In addition, the unit includes DSD Direct 256 decoding and a dedicated phono input. Meanwhile, the DRX-R1.3 is an 11.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver rated for 140W per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz–20 kHz, 0.08% THD, 2 channels driven, FTC). In addition, the unit features floating circuit boards, multiple 32-bit DSPs and DACs, a custom shielded power supply, shielded amplification, and a custom-made magnetic-flux low-hum EI power transformer. Finally, the DRX-7.3 is a 9.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver rated for 135W per channel (8 ohms, 1 kHz, 0.08% THD, 2-ch driven, FTC). The device features a NXP iMX8 network processor, Zone-B lineout for wireless headphones, Zone 2 D/A converter for HDMI/SPDIF/NET/BT, and Zone 3 D/C converter for NET/BT. In addition, users can opt to add an external stereo amplifier to expand the system's immersive audio channel support from 5.2.4 to 7.2.4. Integra's new receiver and processor lineup is now on display at the company's CEDIA 2019 booth in Denver, Colorado. Source: IntegraPosted Thu Sep 5, 2019 at 12:30 PM PDT by: -
Sony Details Xperia 5 Smartphone with 21:9 OLED HDR Display and Dolby Atmos Audio[teaser]The company's new mobile device offers advanced display, audio, and camera tech.[/teaser] Sony has unveiled the latest addition to its flagship series of Xperia smartphones, the Xperia 5. The new mobile device is set to launch in November for an MSRP of $799.99. "With Xperia 5 we’ve brought what our customers loved from Xperia 1 into a smaller design with the latest award-winning technology from Sony," said Mitsuya Kishida, President, Sony Mobile Communications. "Xperia 5 continues to bring uncompromised performance and leading experiences to a smartphone, only possible with Sony." The Xperia 5 features a 6.1-inch FHD+ (1080 x 2520) HDR OLED display with a 21:9 CinemaWide aspect ratio. In addition, the screen supports HDR via BRAVIA TV technologies powered by the X1 for mobile engine. A special Creator Mode for accurate color reproduction is also offered, along with 100% coverage of the DCI-P3 wide color space. Under the hood, the phone uses a Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 Mobile Platform, an X24 LTE Modem, 6 GB RAM, and a 3,140 mAh battery running Android 9 Pie. And when it comes to audio, the unit includes Dolby Atmos support via headphones or the smartphone's built-in stereo speakers, along with Hi-Res audio playback and DSEE HX. Finally, the smartphone also includes an advanced triple camera system powered by Sony's BIONZ X image processor for mobile and Optical SteadyShot image stabilization. The rear camera array utilizes three 12MP modules, including a 16mm lens, a 26mm lens, and a 52mm lens. In addition, the device also incorporates Eye AF technology from Sony's alpha cameras and continuous burst shooting at up to 10 fps with AF/AE tracking calculations happening at up to 30 fps. 4K HDR movie recording is supported as well, along with a Cinema Pro "powered by CineAlta" feature for producing different video settings with professional Look color management presets and more advanced adjustments for white balance, manual focus, and audio recording levels. Source: SonyPosted Thu Sep 5, 2019 at 11:15 AM PDT by: -
Amazon Reveals New Fire TV Cube, OLED Fire TV Edition Display, & Fire TV Sound Bar[teaser]Several new Fire TV devices have been detailed.[/teaser] Amazon has announced a new lineup of Fire TV products. The collection includes an updated Fire TV Cube, the Nebula Sound Bar Fire TV Edition from Anker, and several new Fire TV Edition displays, including an OLED model from Grundig for the European market. "Fire TV Cube was the first hands-free streaming media player powered by Alexa, and since launching last year we have gathered a wealth of feedback from customers about how they use voice in the living room," said Marc Whitten, Vice President of Amazon Fire TV. "Over the past year, we have continued to expand and advance the Fire TV Cube experience based on this feedback with dozens of new features including Multi-Room Music, Follow-Up Mode, and Alexa Communications. These key learnings carried over and guided the development of the second-generation Fire TV Cube, and we are excited to introduce this new-and-improved experience to customers around the world." Serving as an updated version of the previously released model, the new second-generation Fire TV Cube is a streaming media player with integrated far-field voice control and access to tens of thousands of channels, apps, and Alexa skills. The device features a hexa-core processor with support for 4K Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HDR10+ playback at up to 60 frames per second, along with Dolby Atmos audio capabilities. In addition, the unit offers a new Local Voice Control feature for faster response to frequent voice commands. The new Fire TV Cube is now available for pre-order for $119.99. Shipments are expected to go out by October 10. Meanwhile, Amazon has also teamed up with Anker to develop the Nebula Sound Bar - Fire TV Edition. Designed to serve as a sound bar and media player in one, the device features 2.1 channel output with two speakers, dual built-in subwoofers, and 100W of sound. Likewise, the unit includes Fire TV media player functionality with 4K HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision support. In addition, the system comes with an Alexa voice remote. The Nebula Sound Bar - Fire TV Edition is now available for pre-order for $229.99. Shipments are expected to begin on November 21. Finally, Amazon announced several new Fire TV Edition displays as well, including a new Toshiba 65-inch 4K Fire TV Edition with Dolby Vision support for the US market, and a new Grundig OLED Fire TV Edition for the German and Austrian markets. The Grundig OLED will also be the first Fire TV Edition with integrated far-field voice control via eight built-in microphones and Alexa. "Our new Grundig Fire TV Edition television range redefines how people think about their TV experience. Customers not only have access to all their favorite content through live broadcast and video-on-demand, but can also control their compatible smart home products and access thousands of apps, channels, and Alexa skills. We’re excited to be able to offer our customers the world’s first Fire TV Edition television with far-field voice control, making it even easier for users to control their television and elevate their smart TV experience," said Mario Vogl, Grundig’s Northern Europe Regional Director and Managing Director Germany. The Toshiba 65-inch 4K Fire TV Edition is set to launch at Best Buy in the US next month for $599. The Grundig OLED Fire TV Edition is now available for pre-order in 55-inch and 65-inch screen sizes via Amazon.de. Sources: Amazon 1, Amazon 2Posted Wed Sep 4, 2019 at 01:50 PM PDT by: -
STUBER Dated and Detailed for 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and Blu-ray[teaser]The action-packed comedy is headed for home video this October. [/teaser] 20th Century Fox says Stuber will be available on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and Blu-ray on October 15. Get ready for the ride of your life in this high-speed buddy comedy fueled by huge laughs and nonstop action! When a mild-mannered driver named Stu (Kumail Nanjiani; "Silicon Valley") picks up a passenger (Dave Bautista; Guardians of the Galaxy) who turns out to be a cop hot on the trail of a brutal killer, Stu is thrust into a harrowing ordeal in which he desperately tries to hold onto his wits, his life and his five-star rating. The releases will include a lossless soundtrack (Dolby Atmos for the 4K) and supplements include: Deleted Scenes Gag Reel Joke-O-Rama Georgia Film Works Audio Commentary by Michael Dowse and Kumail Nanjiani Gallery Theatrical Trailer Sneak Peak You can find the latest specs for Stuber linked from our 4K and Blu-ray Release Schedules, where it is indexed under October 15. Order the 4K Blu-ray Order the Blu-rayPosted Wed Sep 4, 2019 at 11:18 AM PDT by: -
Samsung Set to Support 8K HDR10+ Streaming Playback[teaser]The company is expanding its HDR10+ ecosystem to support 8K streaming.[/teaser] Samsung has revealed plans to enable 8K HDR10+ playback via its 8K TVs. Though 8K HDR10+ content is not yet available, the company has announced partnerships with several European streaming services -- including CHILI, The Explorers, and MEGOGO -- to provide 8K HDR10+ titles. "With HDR emerging as one of the most important technologies for ultra-high picture quality, our HDR10+ format enables every image to be accurately displayed on screen just as the creator intended," said Hyogun Lee, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. "We will continue to strengthen our industry leadership through establishing partnerships with top streaming service providers and equipping our televisions with the technology needed to support the world's first 8K HDR10+." HDR10+ is an open, royalty free dynamic metadata solution for high dynamic range developed in partnership with Samsung, Panasonic, and 20th Century Fox. The format allows a compatible display to adjust brightness levels, color saturation, and contrast on a scene-by-scene or even frame-by-frame basis on specially graded HDR10+ content, producing images that are closer to the director's intent -- similar to the competing Dolby Vision dynamic HDR format. Currently, HDR10+ is only available in 4K via Amazon Prime Video streaming and select 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray discs from studios like 20th Century Fox, Warner Bros., and Universal. HDR10+ playback is supported by all 2019 Samsung HDR TVs, including the company's 4K and 8K QLED models. Samsung's Q900 8K QLED TV lineup is available in sizes ranging from 55-inches to 98-inches. The Q900 features a native 7,680 x 4,320 resolution 8K panel, quantum dot tech, Direct Full Array Elite local dimming, and AI-powered 8K Upscaling technology, along with HDR10 and HDR10+ playback. An exact launch date for the first 8K HDR10+ content has not been revealed. Likewise, no US streaming services have announced support for 8K HDR10+ yet. Source: SamsungPosted Wed Sep 4, 2019 at 10:35 AM PDT by: -
Disney's FROZEN Announced for 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray[teaser]The 4K release of the animated musical feature will be available in October. [/teaser] Disney is preparing Frozen for 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on October 1. Best Buy will also be offering an exclusive SteelBook. Walt Disney Animation Studios presents a chilly twist on one of the most humorous and heartwarming stories ever told. "Disney Animation's best since The Lion King," (William Bibbiani, CraveOnline) will melt your heart. Fearless optimist Anna sets off on an epic journey -- teaming up with rugged mountain man Kristoff and his loyal reindeer Sven -- to find her sister Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter. Encountering Everest-like conditions, mystical trolls and a hilarious snowman named Olaf, Anna and Kristoff battle the elements in a race to save the kingdom. The release will feature an HDR presentation of the film with a Dolby Atmos soundtrack and supplements include: Deleted Scenes Music Videos "Get a Horse!" Mickey Mouse Short Behind the Scenes Look at the Making of Frozen AND MORE... You can find the latest specs for Frozen - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray linked from our 4K Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under October 1. Order the 4K Blu-rayPosted Wed Sep 4, 2019 at 10:28 AM PDT by: -
Roku Details New Smart Sound Bar and Wireless Subwoofer[teaser]The new sound bar is a speaker and Roku media player in one.[/teaser] Roku has announced two new audio devices, the Roku Smart Sound Bar ($179.99) and the Roku Wireless Subwoofer ($179.99). Both units are available for pre-order now via Roku.com with shipments expected to launch in October. "We’ve been very successful in delivering best-in-class streaming experiences to our customers and we’re constantly innovating in order to deliver on our promise of making TV better," said Mark Ely, Vice President, Players and Whole Home Product Management at Roku. "The Roku Smart Soundbar is a great value and makes it easier than ever to add incredible sound and powerful streaming to any TV. In addition, if you want heart-pounding bass you can easily add that too." The Roku Smart Sound Bar is designed to serve as an external TV speaker and media player in one device. The unit is powered by the Roku OS with access to more than 500,000 movies and TV episodes, along with support for 4K and HDR10 streaming through compatible apps. When it comes to audio components, the sound bar includes four 2.5" full range drivers, advanced volume modes, and Dolby playback. In addition, the device includes a Roku Voice Remote and supports Roku Connect, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Meanwhile, wired connectivity options include HDMI ARC and Optical. Finally, the sound bar is also compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa devices. And for users who want to add more bass to their system, the optional Roku Wireless Subwoofer is designed to easily pair with the Sound Bar. The subwoofer features a sealed cabinet design with a 10-inch driver and 250W peak power/125W RMS. In addition to the new Smart Sound Bar, the subwoofer will also be compatible with the company's previously released Roku TV Wireless Speakers via an upcoming software update. Source: Roku via BusinessWirePosted Wed Sep 4, 2019 at 09:30 AM PDT by: -
SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and Blu-ray Dated and Detailed[teaser]The action-packed sequel is already up for pre-order on both formats at Amazon. [/teaser] As previously reported, Sony's Spider-Man: Far From Home is swinging to 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and Blu-ray in the near future, and now the date has been set for October 1. The digital releases will be available on September 17. Tom Holland returns as everyone’s favorite web-slinger in Spider-Man: Far From Home, the next chapter after Spider-Man: Homecoming. Our friendly neighborhood wall-crawler decides to join his best friends Ned, MJ, and the rest of the gang on a European vacation. However, Peter’s plans to leave super heroics behind for a few weeks are quickly scrapped when he begrudgingly agrees to help Nick Fury uncover the mystery of several elemental creature attacks! Spider-Man and Mysterio (Jake Gyllenhaal) join forces to fight the havoc unleashed across the continent but all is not as it seems. The releases will feature a lossless 7.1 soundtrack (Dolby Atmos on the 4K release) and supplements include: • New Original Short, Peter’s To – Do - List: Peter has a few errands to run before he can leave on his class trip. • Teachers’ Travel Tips: Mr. Harrington & Mr. Dell present a few tips on how to traverse the European continent. • Stepping Up: Explore how Spider-Man was introduced in the MCU, the ways Tom Holland transformed the character of Peter Parker, and what the future holds for Spider-Man. • Suit Up: The suit doesn't make the hero - but it does play a big role in who they are and who they can become. This piece examines all of Peter's different suits in the movie, and with behind the scenes footage, we see why some suits are better than others. • Far, FAR, Far from Home: The film's illustrious locations serve story points and establish tone, but they're also amazing to travel to! Hear from the cast on their experiences filming on-location. • It Takes Two: A special look at the chemistry between Jon Watts and Tom Holland. • Fury & Hill: MCU stalwarts Cobie Smulders and Samuel L. Jackson are back as Agent Maria Hill & Nick Fury! • The Ginter-Riva Effect: A look at the villain sub-plot and how William Ginter-Riva ties Spider-Man: Far From Home all the way back to the beginning of the MCU. • Thank You, Mrs. Parker: A look at Marisa Tomei's reimagining of Aunt May, from Homecoming to Far From Home. • The Brother’s Trust: A quick look into some of the amazing work Tom Holland and his brothers have done through their charity, The Brothers Trust. • The Jump Off: Interviews with the cast & crew take us through all of the amazing stunts of Far From Home. • Now You See Me: We examine the evolution of Mysterio and why Jake Gyllenhaal was the perfect fit for the role. • Stealthy Easter Eggs: Allow E.D.I.T.H. to reveal some of the hidden Easter Eggs you may have missed! • Select Scene Pre – Vis: A side by side comparison of the Pre-Vis with the film • Gag Reel & Outakes • Never-Before-Seen Alternate & Extended Scenes You can find the latest specs for Spider-Man: Far From Home linked from our 4K and Blu-ray Release Schedules, where it is indexed under October 1. Order the 4K Blu-ray Order the Blu-rayPosted Tue Sep 3, 2019 at 02:49 PM PDT by: -
LG Announces Release of 8K OLED and NanoCell TVs[teaser]The company's new 8K displays are expanding to more markets.[/teaser] LG has announced the release of its OLED88Z9 88-inch 8K OLED TV and 75SM99 75-inch 8K NanoCell LCD TV. Both models are rolling out now to the US, Australia, Germany, France, the UK. "The new 8K TVs show that LG is deeply committed to providing consumers with real 8K as defined by established display industry standards," said Brian Kwon, president of the Mobile Communications and Home Entertainment companies at LG. "LG 8K OLED and NanoCell TVs aren’t just TVs with more pixels, they also deliver all of our latest display technologies." The OLED88Z9 and 75SM99 both feature 8K resolution (7,680 x 4,320) with over 33 million pixels. The 88-inch model uses an OLED panel with emissive display technology for perfect blacks, infinite contrast, and superior viewing angles. Meanwhile, the 75-inch model uses an LCD panel with Nano Color filters and Nano Black Full Array Local Dimming Pro technology. In addition, both displays use LG's second- generation α (Alpha) 9 Gen 2 8K intelligent processor, enabling deep learning tech for video and audio optimization, along with advanced 8K upscaling and 6-step noise reduction. Likewise, the TVs also offer support for Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision, HDR10, Advanced HDR by Technicolor, and HLG. HDMI 2.1 connectivity is implemented as well, offering 8K playback at 60 frames per second, an automatic low latency mode (ALLM), variable refresh rate (VRR), and enhanced audio return channel (eARC). Finally, Apple AirPlay 2 capabilities and built-in support for Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa voice control will also be included in select markets. The 75SM99 75-inch 8K NanoCell LCD TV is currently listed on Best Buy for an MSRP of $4,999.99. Official pricing is not currently listed for the OLED88Z9 88-inch 8K OLED TV, but a report by Engadget indicates that it will retail for $42,000. Source: LG, EngadgetPosted Tue Sep 3, 2019 at 08:10 AM PDT by: