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MediaTek Set to Release First DTS:X System-on-Chip Solution for TVs[teaser]The new chips will include support for DTS:X decoding.[/teaser] DTS and MediaTek have announced plans to launch the first DTS:X System-on-Chip (SoC) solution for TVs. The new SoCs will be available to manufacturers in the second half of 2019. "We're excited to work with MediaTek to deliver the first DTS:X solution for TVs on its 4K UHD SoC chipsets," said Joanna Skrdlant, General Manager, Home Audio at Xperi. "We successfully launched DTS Virtual:X for TV together this past year, and we look forward to enabling DTS:X for TVs with MediaTek in 2019 to deliver a seamless, premium home entertainment experience for our mutual TV customers." With the new DTS decoder for single and dual-core MediaTek SoC architectures, manufacturers will be able to produce TVs that are backward compatible with all DTS-encoded content, including DTS:X and DTS-HD Master Audio. The DTS:X transcoder offers support for outputting DTS core audio over S/PDIF and ARC, along with DTS:X lossless bitstream output through eARC to connected devices like a DTS:X compatible A/V receiver or sound bar. Likewise, the tech also incorporates support for the new IMAX Enhanced program immersive streaming codec for 4K IMAX Enhanced movies via OTT services. "After DTS Virtual:X, we are pleased to work with Xperi again and to integrate DTS:X technology into MediaTek TV SoC's." said Mike Chang, Corporate Vice President, Head of Smart Home Business Group, MediaTek. "Together with new DTS:X support, our TV SoC solution with cutting-edge video and PQ engine will offer a more vivid, immersive viewing and listening experience for home entertainment." Specific TV models set to incorporate MediaTek's DTS:X enabled chipsets have not been announced yet. Source: DTSPosted Wed Jan 9, 2019 at 05:25 PM PST by: -
Panasonic Details GZ2000 4K OLED TV with Dolby Vision & HDR10+[teaser]The world's first OLED display with support for both HDR10+ and Dolby Vision has been revealed.[/teaser] Panasonic has unveiled its latest OLED TV model. The new GZ2000 4K OLED TV features advanced picture, HDR, and calibration options along with integrated Dolby Atmos upward firing speakers. "Together, Dolby and Panasonic are bringing best-in-class audio and imaging technology to Panasonic's TVs," said John Couling, Senior Vice President, commercial partnerships, "Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos perfectly complement the GZ2000's advanced display, transforming it into an entertainment powerhouse." The GZ2000 4K OLED TV will be available in 55-inch and 65-inch screen sizes. Equipped with a custom-made Professional Edition 4K OLED panel powered by the company's HCX PRO Intelligent Processor, the display has been optimized by Panasonic R&D engineers and Hollywood colorist Stefan Sonnenfeld for superior color accuracy and brightness capabilities. In addition, the set includes support for HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG high dynamic range formats. Likewise, the TV offers advanced calibration options with support for CalMAN PatternGen test patterns, AutoCal functionality, and Imaging Science Foundation (ISF) settings. And outside of picture performance, the GZ2000 also includes built-in upward firing speakers with support for Dolby Atmos audio. In addition, the sound system has been tuned by Panasonic's Technics engineers and uses Technics' proprietary JENO Engine. Finally, the display uses the new My Home Screen 4.0 platform and features Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa compatibility for voice control. Pricing and availability for the new GZ2000 4K OLED TV have not been announced yet. And sadly, if Panasonic's other recent display releases are any indication, it's very unlikely the TV will be sold in the US. Source: Panasonic via PR NewswirePosted Wed Jan 9, 2019 at 11:30 AM PST by: -
Trinnov Preps DTS:X Pro Update for Altitude Audio Processors[teaser]An expanded version of DTS:X is coming to the company's series of high-end audio processors.[/teaser] Trinnov has announced plans to release a free software update for its Altitude lineup, enabling support for the new DTS:X Pro format. Building upon the standard DTS:X platform, the upgraded tech will greatly expand the maximum number of unique channels a user can configure. "Trinnov has been collaborating with the DTS team since 2014, leading to a first public demo of a DTS:X 22.2 system at CES 2015 on an Altitude32 processor. Our software-based platform consistently enables us to release new formats before other high-end home cinema processors. In turn, our design allows us to offer the latest technologies to our customers at their earliest availability. This was the case with DTS:X, and having worked closely with DTS, we are now very satisfied to be able to introduce DTS:X Pro as their first licensee of this technology. This accomplishment is yet another example of our commitment to high spatial resolution." said Arnaud Laborie, Trinnov's co-founder and CEO. DTS:X is an object-based audio format developed for cinemas and home theaters, enabling more audio placement options for mixers, including the ability to position sounds overhead. While the commercial theater implementation of the tech can support up to 64 uniquely-rendered channels, the consumer version has been limited to 11.1 channels. But with the new DTS:X Pro update for Trinnov's Altitude products, that number will now be greatly expanded upon, offering support for up to 32 uniquely-rendered DTS:X Pro channels through the company's flagship Altitude32. "The flexibility and power of Trinnov’' platform and their dedication to a premium home theater experience for their customers is why DTS partners with Trinnov for the DTS:X decoder technology portfolio", said Joanna Skrdlant, GM of Home Audio & Solutions Licensing at DTS, a wholly owned subsidiary of Xperi Corporation. An exact launch date has not been announced yet, but the free DTS:X Pro software update for Trinnov's Altitude Audio Processors will be available later this year. Source: TrinnovPosted Tue Jan 8, 2019 at 07:00 PM PST by: -
Pioneer Announces New Headphones & AV Receivers[teaser]Several new audio products have been revealed.[/teaser] Pioneer has detailed its CES 2019 lineup of gear. The collection includes the S9 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones, the E8 Wireless In-Ear Sports Headphones, and the VSX-534, VSX-834, and VSX-934 AV Receivers. First up, the VSX-534 is a 5.2-channel AV receiver with support for up to a 3.2.2 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X configuration. The device is rated for 150 W/Ch (6 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 10%, 1-ch driven). Meanwhile, the VSX-834 and VSX-934 are both 7.2-channel receiver models with support for up to a 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X configuration. Likewise, both units are rated for 165 W/Ch (6 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 10%, 1-ch driven). In addition, the VSX-934 also offers Wi-Fi connectivity and Apple AirPlay 2 support, enabling multi-room playback, multi-device control, and enhanced buffering for AirPlay 2 speakers. The VSX-534 ($379.99), VSX-834 ($479.99), and VSX-934 ($579.99) are all set to start shipping in February. Beyond receiver models, Pioneer is also showcasing its new S9 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones. The device features large 40 mm (1.57-inch) rare-earth-magnet drivers and Copper-Clad Aluminum Wire (CCAW) voice-coils for Hi-Res Audio playback (via wired connection to a compatible player). In addition, the headphones offer Bluetooth connectivity with support for the AAC, Qualcomm aptX, and Qualcomm aptX HD audio codecs for high quality wireless playback. Likewise, the S9's include active noise-cancelling technology to help reduce external sounds. Finally, the headphones have been optimized to work with Google Assistant as well. Pricing and availability for the new S9 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones have not been announced yet. And rounding out Pioneer's CES lineup is the company's new E8 Wireless In-Ear Sports Headphones. The device features an Ear Direct Mount Structure with angled 6 mm rare-earth magnet drivers and nozzles. Likewise, the package includes small, medium, and large ear fins that lock each ear bud into place, creating a secure fit perfect for workouts. Bluetooth connectivity with support for the AAC codec is provided as well. Finally, the internal earphone batteries are rated for up to three hours of continuous connection on a single charge, and the carry case can recharge the headphones twice. Pioneer's E8 Wireless In-Ear Sports Headphones will be available in yellow, gray, and pink for an MSRP of $149.99. Source: PioneerPosted Tue Jan 8, 2019 at 02:35 PM PST by: -
GREEN BOOK Dated and Detailed for 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and Blu-ray[teaser]The Golden Globe Best Picture Winner will park on home video in March. [/teaser] Universal is preparing Green Book for 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and Blu-ray on March 12. Academy Award® nominee for his roles in Captain Fantastic and Eastern Promises, Viggo Mortensen, and Academy Award® winner for Moonlight, Mahershala Ali, star in Green Book, a film inspired by a true friendship that transcended race, class, and the 1962 Mason-Dixon line. When Tony Lip (Mortensen), a bouncer from an Italian-American neighborhood in the Bronx, is hired to drive Dr. Don Shirley (Ali), a world-class Black pianist, on a concert tour from Manhattan to the Deep South, they must rely on The Green Book to guide them to the few establishments that were then safe for African-Americans. Confronted with racism, danger as well as unexpected humanity and humor—they are forced to set aside differences to survive and thrive on the journey of a lifetime. Green Book is the winner of three 2019 Golden Globe® awards including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, Best Actor in a Supporting Role for Mahersala Ali and Best Screenplay. Each release will include a Dolby Atmos soundtrack and supplements will include: • Virtuoso Performances – Go behind the scenes with Viggo Mortensen and Mahershala Ali as they discuss their characters and the lengths they went to accurately portray them.• An Unforgettable Friendship – Cast and filmmakers discuss the friendship between Don Shirley and Tony Lip.• Going Beyond the Green Book – Filmmakers and cast discuss the significance of The Green Book. You can find the latest specs for Green Book linked from our 4K and Blu-ray Release Schedules, where it is indexed under March 12.Posted Tue Jan 8, 2019 at 12:27 PM PST by: -
OVERLORD 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and Blu-ray Dated and Detailed[teaser]The WWII horror-thriller is now up for pre-order at Amazon. [/teaser] As previously reported, Paramount's Overlord will be available on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and Blu-ray, and now both titles are set to release on February 19. Nothing can prepare you for the mind-blowing mayhem that is Overlord, an insanely twisted thrill ride about a team of American paratroopers who come face-to-face with Nazi super-soldiers unlike the world has ever seen. Embraced by critics, Overlord is Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes and was hailed as “wonderfully tense and truly exhilarating” (Jonathan Barkan, Dread Central). The wildly entertaining genre mash-up boasts a stellar ensemble cast, non-stop action and plenty of wild twists you have to see to believe. The 4K release will be presented in Dolby Vision HDR with Dolby Atmos audio and supplements include The Horrors of War. You can find the latest specs for Overlord linked from our 4K and Blu-ray Release Schedules, where it is indexed under February 19. Order the 4K Blu-ray Order the Blu-rayPosted Tue Jan 8, 2019 at 11:28 AM PST by: -
IMAX Enhanced Support Expands to New Titles, Services, and Devices[teaser]More IMAX Enhanced products and content are on the way.[/teaser] IMAX and DTS have announced several new partners for their IMAX Enhanced program, including new streaming services, product manufacturers, and studios. "We're encouraged by the significant momentum and high-caliber partners that are embracing the IMAX Enhanced program in just the first few months of its launch," said IMAX CFO and Head of Corporate Strategy & Development Patrick McClymont. "These premium partners and the blockbuster titles announced today extend our product and content offering and advance our efforts to deliver the best at-home entertainment experiences to more consumers around the world." The expansion includes the addition of streaming services like FandangoNOW (U.S.), Privilege 4K (U.S.), Tencent Video (China), and Rakuten TV (Europe), which will all start offering select IMAX Enhanced content this year. In addition, Sony has announced plans to release its first IMAX Enhanced streaming titles through participating digital retailers. The launch lineup will feature 15 films, including Venom and Alpha. Meanwhile, Paramount will also release IMAX Enhanced titles this year. And outside of content, IMAX Enhanced is expanding to more AV receiver and display models as well, with newly announced support from brands like Arcam, Elite, Integra, Lexicon, Onkyo, Pioneer, TCL, and Trinnov. "We are pleased to announce the growth of the IMAX Enhanced ecosystem with leading studios, streaming services, and device partners who share our vision of raising the bar for home entertainment by delivering the highest quality content to premium devices," said Xperi EVP and Chief Products and Services Officer, Geir Skaaden. IMAX Enhanced use a proprietary post-production process and an advanced algorithm to provide high-quality 4K HDR images through the accurate reduction of noise and grain under the filmmaker's supervision. Likewise, IMAX Enhanced also uses a special variant of the DTS:X codec for immersive audio with specific adjustments for the home theater based on how the IMAX theatrical sound system operates. For our first impressions on IMAX Enhanced audio, be sure to check out Josh Zyber's series of articles on The Bonus View. Source: IMAX Enhanced via Business WirePosted Tue Jan 8, 2019 at 11:00 AM PST by: -
ROBIN HOOD (2018) Dated and Detailed for 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and Blu-ray[teaser]Otto Bathurst's action-adventure will take aim at both formats in February. [/teaser] Lionsgate says Robin Hood will be available on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and Blu-ray on February 19. Returning home from the Crusades, Robin of Loxley (Taron Egerton) finds his country oppressed by the evil Sheriff of Nottingham (Ben Mendelsohn). With the help of Moorish warrior Little John (Jamie Foxx), Robin transforms into the heroic outlaw Robin Hood, taking up arms to fight the sheriff and win the heart of his love, Maid Marian (Eve Hewson). The 4K release will feature Dolby Vision HDR, a Dolby Atmos soundtrack, and supplements on both releases will include: • “Outlaws and Auteurs: Reshaping Robin Hood” (7-Part Documentary) • Outtakes • Deleted Scenes You can find the latest specs for Robin Hood linked from our 4K and Blu-ray Release Schedules, where it is indexed under February 19.Posted Tue Jan 8, 2019 at 10:33 AM PST by: -
THE NUTCRACKER AND THE FOUR REALMS Dated and Detailed for 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and Blu-ray[teaser]The family-friendly adventure is due to hit stores at the end of the month. [/teaser] Disney is set to release The Nutcracker and the Four Realms on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and Blu-ray on January 29. In The Nutcracker and the Four Realms, Clara travels along a golden thread, presented at Drosselmeyer’s (Morgan Freeman) annual party, eagerly searching for a one-of-a-kind key that will unlock a music box that holds a priceless gift. When she enters a mysterious parallel world, Clara encounters a Nutcracker soldier named Phillip (Jayden Fowora-Knight), a gang of mice and three Realm regents, including the Sugar Plum Fairy (Keira Knightley). Ultimately, she must brave the ominous Fourth Realm, home to the tyrant Mother Ginger (Helen Mirren), to retrieve the key and return harmony to the unstable world. The releases will feature lossless 7.1 soundtracks and supplements include: • On Pointe: A Conversation with Misty Copeland - Copeland shares the thrill of portraying one of her favorite characters in a whole new way.• Unwrapping “The Nutcracker and the Four Realms” - Dive into the production design, sets, costumes and more that helped transform a beloved ballet into an adventurous movie.• Deleted Scenes – o The Stahlbaums Arrive- As the Stahlbaums enter the Christmas Eve ball, the butler attempts to announce them to the assembled guests.o Follow Your Ribbon- Drosselmeyer encourages a reluctant Clara to go find her gift.o Deleted Scene: Clara Asks About Her Mother- Sugar Plum gives Clara a tour of her mother’s bedroom.o Left, Left, Left, Left, Left- Wandering lost in the forest, palace guards Cavalier and Harlequin quarrel about which way to go.o Out with the Old- Sugar Plum makes sweeping changes to the palace decor.• Music Videos - o “Fall on Me” Performed by Andrea Bocelli Featuring Matteo Bocelli- Experience superstar tenor Andrea Bocelli and his son Matteo Bocelli performing their first duet together in this uplifting song.o “The Nutcracker Suite” Performed by Lang Lang- Get swept up in a series of images from the movie, set to Tchaikovsky’s music and featuring world-renowned pianist Lang Lang. You can find the latest specs for The Nutcracker and the Four Realms linked from our 4K and Blu-ray Release Schedules, where it is indexed under January 29.Posted Tue Jan 8, 2019 at 09:32 AM PST by: -
Sony Unveils New 4K Blu-ray Player & Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Sound Bar[teaser]The company has detailed more additions to its home theater lineup.[/teaser] Sony has announced two new sound bar models and a new 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player for its 2019 product lineup. The collection includes the HT-X8500 Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Sound Bar, the HT-S350 Sound Bar and the UBP-X800M2 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Player. "Whether it's the stunning 4K picture achieved with the new UBP-X800M2 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player or all-encompassing surround sound delivered through these new soundbars, the home theater experience Sony provides is unmatched," said Mike Fasulo, president and chief operating officer of Sony Electronics North America. "These new home audio and video products will elevate customers' ability to access theater-level sound and picture quality from the comfort of home." First up, the HT-X8500 is a 2.1-channel sound bar model with a slim design, built-in dual subwoofer, and support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio. Thanks to Sony's digital Signal Processing technologies and Vertical Surround Engine, the device can produce up to 7.1.2-channel surround sound. In addition, the sound bar offers seven sound modes to complement different types of content, along with a vocal enhancement option to amplify dialogue. Bluetooth wireless connectivity and one-cable HDMI eARC support are integrated as well. Next, the HT-S350 is a 320 watt sound bar system with 5.1-channel decoding and a wireless subwoofer. In addition, the system feature Sony's enhanced S-Force PRO Front Surround technology to create a more immersive soundstage. HDMI ARC and Bluetooth connectivity are included as well. Finally, the UBP-X800M2 is Sony's latest 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Player model. The device supports 4K Ultra HD playback, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG), along with 4K upscaling capabilities. In addition, the player offers Hi-Res Audio, DSD, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X playback as well. And beyond 4K Blu-ray and Blu-ray, the X800M2 features SACD/DVD-A compatibility and access to 4K streaming services like Netflix and YouTube. Pricing has not been announced yet, but Sony's HT-X8500 Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Sound Bar, HT-S350 Sound Bar, and UBP-X800M2 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Player are all set to launch this spring. Source: SonyPosted Mon Jan 7, 2019 at 05:45 PM PST by:
